Chapter 21 - The trial

After Keno left...

Fuji reassuring "Don't mind him, he's just anxious about the whole situation. Try to get some rest before the trial" he followed Keno.

Untar sat peering at his tea cup, he was troubled.

Satasha barely conscious asked "How are you Untar?"

Untar still gazing at the cup "Things won't be the same after tonight. I fear something bad will happen soon, and I pray for our safety"

Satasha "Things where not the same since the day I showed up in the temple. I bring only death and destruction wherever I go, so as long as I am away no harm will feel upon any of you"

Untar defensively "Don't say that. You are one of our family now, but I fear from other's greed, I fear about your safety and well-being"

Satasha assuring "Don't worry about me, it's Ishtar who you should worry about, she must be anxious. It's getting late, you should go back and report her of what had happened"

Untar approvingly "You're right, she must be worried about you, I should tell her what happened here, are you coming back with me?"

Lily immediately "No, she's too weak to travel or cross a port gate. Getting exposed to magic right now will complicate the healing spell and might conflict it, she would be able to travel within a week"

Untar got up saying "Is that so, then I'll comeback tomorrow to check on you, try to get some sleep"

Satasha nodded and collapsed as soon as Untar left the house.

While she was sleeping, she had a bizarre dream. In that dream she was sitting on the hell's throne looking down at a kneeling man who she felt like she knew him very well, then the dream shifted to her standing on a meadow holding hands with the same man happily, then it shifted to her sitting in the middle of an empty field surrounded be dead men, covered with blood, and badly injured. She saw two men approaching, she recognised them at once they were Marvok and Mordroc, they stabbed her then Marvok waved his sword to behead her. Everything went dark and cold, amid the emptiness she heard humming, it was soothing to hear such an angelic voice humming a familiar tune, it was guiding her to safety, it was guiding her to warmth. Satasha followed the hum to a room where the fair lady sat brushing her hair, Satasha stood at the corner admiring her beauty but also sensing the familiarity of the lady, she asked "Who are you?"

The fair lady gazed lovingly at her answering "You already know the answer"

Satasha shook her head disapproving

The lady "You seem lost and confused, if you wish to know everything go back to the cave, you'll find the truth"

Satasha tearing "I am afraid of the truth, I don't wish to know"

The lady "Then you'll spend your whole life regretting, you must correct your mistakes otherwise you'll waste our last life tormenting those who you love"

Satasha nervously "I fear that the truth would prevent me from living happily with those who I love"

The lady "But you lived, you lived every life you wanted and every form you desired, yet you never learned from your mistakes. This time you must redeem yourself or the ones that you love will suffer the consequences of your actions"

Satasha burdened "Who are you?"

The lady smiled faintly replying "You'll find out soon enough"

Satasha woke up startled, she searched her surroundings and saw Lily and Yama were asleep. She got up wrapping herself in a blanket, she felt cold even though it was summer. Gazing at the porch she saw Keno sitting on it drinking, he seemed to have changed his fit and showered. She opened the front door silently trying not to wake them up, then got out.

Keno turned to see who was it, when he saw her he rolled his eyes sighing "Why are you awake?"

Satasha sitting next to him "I had a bad dream" she took the bottle from him and drank it.

Keno snatching it back "That is wine, it's bad for your recovery"

Satasha shivered "I wanted something to warm me up"

Keno didn't want to give her another sip, drank the whole bottle.

Satasha smiled and shrunk herself to feel warm.

Keno "If you are that cold, you should go inside near the fire"

Satasha "I wanted to apologise"

Keno arching his brows "For?!"

Satasha sincerely "Everything. You are right, I was too reckless and now I dragged the whole temple with me because I was incompetent"

Keno trying to see if she was lying inquired "So you feel guilty about your actions?"

Satasha truthfully "No, I just don't like the idea of dragging everyone with me, if they want to punish someone, I'll step up and take the whole blame"

Keno irritated "You really are stupid Satasha!. Do you think we'll let that happen?"

Satasha "Exactly, that is why I must act carefully so I don't start up any conflict. I must delay my trip to the cave to avoid exposing everything"

Keno trying to see her plan "What is in that cave?"

Satasha fearfully "What I was avoiding this whole time"

Keno saw the fear in her eyes and asked "What is it?"

Satasha nearly crying "The truth!. If I go there I fear that I won't be the same anymore, or I won't comeback"

Keno confusedly "You mean you'd be changed or you'd be killed?"

Satasha anxiously "I don't know" tears started to fall from her eyes.

Keno wiped it forcefully as if he pinched her cheek "Hey, whatever happens I won't let anyone harm you. You are one of us"

Satasha nodded while wiping her tears away. Keno pat her head out of spite with bit force as if he intended to slap some sense to her "If you want, I would go with you, so we can face it together okay"

Satasha cover her face with her hand, she closed her eyes trying to summon up her courage but only tears kept falling. Keno frustratedly pulled her closer to him and embraced her gently, he whispered "Don't cry, nothing will happen to you as long as I live, no one can hurt you, I'll make sure of that"

Satasha embraced him gripping his clothes tightly as if she was drowning and he was her boat. She buried her face in his shoulder trying to hide from her fears.

Keno sensed how frightened and troubled she was, it ached him to see her like that. He held her tightly securing her in his arms as if she might fall if he loosened up a bit, he leant his head on hers thinking of how to help her.

He reassured "It's okay, you're safe with me don't worry I'll protect you"

She snivelled clinching his shoulder, his hug was warm and reassuring, it made her feel safe indeed but the idea kept haunting her.

On the other hand; Keno was confused by his own emotions, there was a chaos inside of him that he didn't understand anything of it, the one thing he could grasp from that chaos is he didn't want to let go. Embracing her made him feel needed, responsible, and as a guardian. He always loved the idea of him being the saviour of someone's life or guiding the lost to heal, doing so made him feel worthy and happy. Now he felt responsible for her which means that he'd do whatever it takes to make sure that he save, protect, and guide her to be a better person; but that wasn't how he truly felt. The chaos of his emotions was too loud yet too obvious, he wasn't only feeling as if she was another person to fix but more like I want this person to feel my love for her and for her to love me back. Yet he seemed baffled and unsure of it, escaping the idea of him liking her behind the idea of him being her mentor. He always made sure not to be too attached to someone fearing the idea of losing them.

Keno kept caressing her hair gently while convincing himself that it's only momentary feelings, but the more she gripped his clothes the chaos of emotions stormed. He sniffed her hair before closing his eyes and placing his forehead on her shoulder. Although she was shivering from cold, she felt so warm as if she was the sun it self, as if she was the gleaming sun in winter, emitting beams of warmth to melt the snow while she remained cold caring about everyone but herself.

'Why am I hugging her again?' He thought to himself, she loosened up a bit but he remained holding into her, he didn't know why he always grew touchy when she's around, he could never resist the idea of holding her hand or shoulder just so he could feel the warmth that she emitted.

'And her scent... Ah, her scent always makes me want to hold into her forever' he thought 'She maybe the most powerful being but she's surely delicate, how's that even possible?'

Then he thought why he isn't greedy to obtain her power, normally he'd want that but why isn't he. It ached his heart to think that he'd might betray her someday just so he can have her power, and what frightened him most is that some of them might do that to her, he felt anxious and held her a bit tightly.

Satasha "I am going to be okay, it's just the idea that frightened me Keno, I am sure we can figure out how to overcome it"

Her words snapped him out of his chaos feelings scandalised, he loosened his grip pushing her away gently.

Keno trying to seem calm "I was just thinking about how to save you from the trial" he didn't know where did that come from but surely it wasn't the truth.

Satasha whose eyes was still filled with tears reassured "I am going to be fine, it's the others who you should worry about. Honestly I am going to accept whatever they decide for me even if it meant my end"

"No!" Keno objected defensively, he stood up hastily waving his hand hardly as if he was slapping the idea away, he repeated "No!" Loudly, he continued fumingly "Get that ridiculous idea out of your head or I'll do it violently. I'll try to think of something so don't act foolishly and do as I say, do you understand"

Satasha who was surprised by his reaction nodded blankly.

Keno sighed "Good!"

"What's up with this reaction?" Asked Fuji from behind

Keno startled "Where did you come from?"

Although Fuji was dressed in clean clothing, he seemed tired and sleep deprived. He handed keno a wine bottle replying "The camp"

Keno drank the wine before asking "Anything new?"

Fuji "No, the squad didn't send anything" he took the bottle and drank from it

Keno "You should rest then, I'll take the first watch"

Fuji "Then I'll drink the wine, you need to stay awake" he turned to Satasha asking "How are you?"

Satasha who was covering herself with the blanket as if she was a caterpillar, with teary eyes and red nose "I am fine, I just feel hungry at the moment"

Fuji clearly seeing through her lie offered "Do you want me to make you a sandwich or something?"

Satasha weeping "No, I am fine" she started to cry again but even she didn't know why.

Fuji was baffled, he didn't know what he had done wrong asked while kneeling in front of her "Why are you crying? Did I say something wrong?"

Satasha wiping her tears "I don't know why I am crying, I just feel so overwhelmed"

Keno trying to lighten up her mood "Maybe you're that hungry"

Satasha chuckled "Yeah"

Keno offering his hand to aid her in getting up "Come on let's go inside and make sure you are well fed" Satasha took his hand delightfully.

Fuji opened his arms to make sure he'd catch her if she fell.

Keno who failed again to resist the idea of holding on into her rejoiced about how small and adorable her hand was, he smiled heartily that even Fuji noticed and understood immediately what his dear friend was feeling. Fuji raised his brows glaring gleefully at Keno who seemed rather annoyed by him.

He thought 'Oh, you're not going to shut up about this, aren't you?' While staring annoyedly at Fuji's smirk.

Fuji winked at him while trying his best not to burst laughing.

....

[Meanwhile in the camp Marvok and Mordroc along with Tina, Zeta, Lucifer, and Satan had gathered to discuss Satasha's issue].

Marvok "I don't trust her!. She seems like she's up to something, and her powers is the same as Ananke, could she be her reincarnation?"

Mordroc "That's not possible, even if she was she would've killed us by now"

Satan confused "Wasn't she sealed?. How can she be reincarnated if she was sealed?"

Tina "The seal must had weakened or broken then. Yet I don't think she's her, she resembles Pandora more"

Zeta suggesting "Maybe she's a shapeshifter. We all know that they cannot take someone's form unless that person is dead"

Marvok "Maybe she is, but we would never know the truth unless we force it out of her"

Lucifer worryingly "We cannot torture her!. She's under the temple's protection, doing so won't benefit our position especially at these times"

Zeta agreeing "True, torturing her won't bring anything to us, but we can place her in the truth circle during trial. This is non harmful way of finding out the truth"

Tina "You do realise that we must take consent from every being with the ability to conjure or tame magic?. This also needs her approval because it's forbidden magic"

Mordroc "Let's make her trial official, summoning everyone to witness it in the amphitheater under the judgement of Athena"

Lucifer objecting "Isn't that too much for simple matter as this?"

Marvok "I agree with Mordroc, if she was truly Ananke's reincarnation then proper judgment must be preformed and it's not simple matter"

Lucifer annoyed "This is absurd!. You guys are so afraid of karma that you're prepared to kill everyone who shows the slightest ability to control darkness, wasn't the last massacre enough?"

Tina arguing "You look down on us?. Just because you were too young to remember doesn't give you the right to judge, you have no idea what it was back when she was alive. In matter of fact, you younglings don't have the right to decide about this matter"

Lucifer interrupted "Well I apologise if I had scratched your ego but this is what everyone would think if you gave her the grand trial you want. It's like passing the criminal judgment even before knowing the truth, I am not defending the lad but this act is foolish and it only shows how fragile we are"

Satan trying to deescalate the situation "Let us all calm down for a minute before saying anything that we'd all regret!. We must think of a proper way to have a trial suited for such matter and not the trial that has been suggested"

Zeta trying to evade the possibility that she might tell everyone his scheme "He's right. We held a small trial after having the consent of the ancients like Ishtar, Naina, and the others. If we discover that she's what we think she is, then we held the grand trial suited for her status, if not, then we pass judgment of her actions and her actions only"

Mordroc issuing "So you suggest that we discard that fact that Ishtar and Keno knew about her and kept quiet this whole time?"

Zeta defending "I am not saying that we discard this matter forever but at least after the war ends, we need their help, supplies, and connections. If we start pointing fingers we'd be left alone to fight"

Marvok agreeing "He's right, we must get things sorted one at a time. Shettsu did your spy report back?"

Lucifer/Shettsu "Yes, they're still in the house. It seems that she's ill and required load of resources to heal her"

Satan "Maybe she consumed all her powers today"

Mordroc "Or maybe she's faking it"

Marvok "Perhaps, let's keep a close eye on her at the moment. Tell Ranku to report any suspicious movements and stay close to her till the trial" Lucifer nodded, he continued "Now this meeting has ended, everyone can take some rest while they can"

Everyone got out of the tent. Mordroc and Tina walked together scheming.

Mordroc whispered angrily "I don't care what she is, if we have opportunity let's kill her on sight"

Tina hushing "Let's send someone to kill her while she's in her ill phase, if we don't do it now they might suspect"

Mordroc whispered "Screw them!. Let them suspect, like they wouldn't if we did it now"

Tina "Yes they would but they won't have a proof"

Zeta who was walking a bit far from them heard their scheme, he took a left turn and walked out of the camp.

___

Back in the tent...

Marvok smoking weed with his pipe "I'd say they'll kill her before she sees morning light"

Satan knowing that some is on the act of doing so at the moment "Who do you suspect?"

Marvok sitting comfortably near the fire "Everyone!"

Satan "Should we protect her or something?"

Marvok relaxing "Honestly I don't care about the lad, it's the feedback that we'd get if something happened to her. Just imagine all the temples would rise against us along with the others"

Lucifer "Should I notify Ranku?"

Marvok "No need, let's see how things would end up. Who knows the lad might be a resourceful for our use"

Lucifer who disliked everyone's behaviour left the tent quietly toward the house that she was in.

...

[Meanwhile in the house. Fuji was sleeping on the floor near the fire, Satasha and Keno were chatting silently in the kitchen, while Lily and Yama were sleeping next to each other holding hands]

Satasha who was feeling better now glared fondly at them holding hands "I am really happy for her, she deserves all the love in this world"

Keno "Yeah, she's lucky to have Yama with her"

Satasha "I believe that they're lucky that they had found each other at the right time, she is lthe part that he sought for long"

Keno disagreed "I don't think he sought love, I think that love had found him"

Satasha glaring seriously at him "Then you don't know your brother at all. I was inside his mind once, he seemed desperate to be held and in need of someone to give him the love that he desired"

Keno argued "Not all of us seek love, some of us want peace or wealth, my brother was deprived from love at very young age, so naturally he feels that way"

Satasha burdened "But you seek vengeance from your oppressor, from those who wronged you, you may call it justice but it's world who you want to avenge from"

Keno agitated "You know nothing so don't preach me while your life is a literal chaos"

Satasha chuckled "You got that right, but at least there's hope for you, I am a lost cause"

Keno frustrated "Don't downgrade your worth, just because you had bad things happened to you doesn't mean that you are bad"

Satasha smiled beamingly "You don't understand either, I am bad. Matter of fact, I am the worst. Even if I don't remember everything I know deep down that whatever I've done, it's going to be the ultimate worse thing ever"

Keno "I thought you remembered everything about yourself"

Satasha "No, I ran away from them"

Before Keno could speak, Mark appeared in front of them "Zeta is near the house and Lucifer too"

Keno panicked "How far are they?"

Mark "They aren't together, Zeta will reach the hours in five minutes"

Satasha quickly woke Lily and Yama, she alerted "Get up, you two need to leave"

Fuji woke up alarmed gazing back and forth at the lot. Lily didn't understand what Satasha said glared dreamingly at her "Hmm..?"

Satasha repeated "Someone is coming to the house and you mustn't be seen"

Keno who had a good idea "Wait... only Lily leave, Yama stays"

Fuji trying to grasp his plan "You want him to be seen with us?"

Keno "Not all of us. This might be our way out of this mess, if Zeta saw Yama then he'll think that Marvok must had knowledge about Satasha's power this way we can turn them against each other"

Satasha "Okay, but what about Lucifer?"

Keno sorting his idea "I'll go to him while you three greet Zeta, and I'll go unnoticed. This way Ranku would report to him that he saw only Zeta enter and none come out except him. Lily go hide in the bathroom, Mark can you take me where Lucifer is?"

Mark looked at Satasha who nodded "I'll take you near him"

Keno immediately "But not to close, I want him to see me walk from the house but not in Ranku's range" Mark nodded

Satasha "I'll talk to Zeta, I know what he's after"

Keno burdened "Be careful, he's cunning and vile, don't let him get into your nerves"

Satasha glared lovingly at him then nodded. Keno approached Mark and they both disappeared, Lily kissed Yama's hand then went to hide in the bathroom.

The door knocked, Zeta had arrived just after Lily closed the bathroom door silently.

Satasha sat on the chair gracefully as if she wasn't dying few hours ago and Yama stood firmly behind her with one hand grasping the chair that she sat on, Fuji opened the door for him.

Zeta cheerfully "Sorry for the inconvenience but I had to make a stop here before I go back, do you mind if I take a few minutes from your time champ?"

Fuji distrustfully stepped aside so he can come in.

Zeta saw Yama looking spitefully at him and Satasha amused.

She welcomed "My dear friend, I thought you've lost your way to me, what took you so long?"

Zeta grinned "I fear that something came up and I had to deal with it, Can I have a quick chat with you Dear friend"

Satasha merrily "The room is yours"

Zeta added "Alone!" Gazing at all hateful glaring he was getting.

Satasha got up and sat near the fire, she pat the spot next to her offering "Let's have a cozy chat then"

Before he could take a step Fuji grabbed his arm warning "If you did anything funny, I'll kill you at once"

Zeta sneered "O' mighty mountain, I excepted nothing less" he pushed his hand and sat opposing Satasha.

Satasha brightly "What can I do for you love"

Zeta didn't know if she's acting all loving and cuddly or she really are just a fool "I see, straight to the point then?"

Satasha changed her attitude quickly to more serious tone "You and I both know how much you hate small talks, and I assume you didn't show up for all noble intentions. Matter of fact, I'd say you had me surprised for not sending someone to silence me by now"

Zeta chuckled "You're more fun than I had anticipated. Fair enough, I came here with a proposal. I don't think your disposal would change anything but your value might make a difference. I offer you one-o-one deal, I vouch for you in the trial and in return you do something for me"

Satasha knew exactly what he wants "But wouldn't that stir trouble?. I don't think disposing would be a better option"

Zeta was surprised, he didn't know if she has the ability to read minds or he was just that obvious. He chuckled "I am starting to like you kid, I see why they keep you around even though you're not that bright"

Satasha "They keep me around because they need the services that I offer, just like you. I believe altering his memories would suffice"

Zeta calmly "I don't want his words, I need his silence, it would make things more fun since you took that from me"

Satasha confidently "But I didn't take that away from you only, you really need to go up and down for the approval you desire, yet you never received any. I think your request would fall badly, if the fingers are pointed at you"

Zeta agitated "You may think that but I am doing this for me, I want chaos as much as you thrive on it. I want them to fight each other"

Satasha interrupted "So you can step in and provide salvation for them?"

Zeta eagerly "No, so no one who possesses powers live other than me. I'll be the one with powers enough to make them tremble, and gaining allies"

Satasha seeing his vision "Ahh... so you want to make problems to give solution for the party you desire, and when the time comes they'll do as you say"

Zeta raised his head looking at her from his nose.

Satasha cheerfully "Cool motive, I am in"

Zeta surprised "Just like that?. No second thoughts?"

Satasha sincerely "As long as you know what you'll lose in pursuit of power, I'll help you cause the chaos you want. If only you get me out of this mess, then I'll do my part of the deal"

Zeta "You know I can't do that at once, everyone is after your head right now"

Satasha "It's not my head that I am worried about, and if you don't find a way then there's no deal"

Zeta trying to see if she's stupid "You do realise that you must do your part first, then I do mine right?"

Satasha "Yes, and I am sure you must know that I am no fool, I know the trial would contain the truth circle. Who knows maybe the words will spill out of my mouth?. I think I know who would be more affected by that"

Zeta smirked "You don't have a proof, only words"

Satasha "I wouldn't be so sure!. Look love you must gain my trust first, your guy will remain asleep till then. Do what you need to do if you want to make this deal with me, if not then I'll do nothing and forget everything that you said here and now"

Zeta hatefully "If you don't make this deal with me then you aren't going to live to see morning sun"

Satasha "I might surprise you with what I can do" she got up and offered her hand for him "I'll help your cause only after you know what your pursuit costs. Till then, it was a pleasure to chat with you, it brought back memories the good ones"

Zeta pushed her hand away trying to act as if he was angry, his real deal of this visit was to make sure that she's the real Ananke or just some unfortunate lad with the abilities to control darkness. It was clear to him that she's hiding more than she shows, and the last sentence made him more confused than ever. He got up flicking the dust from his pants warning "You'll lose then, and if you lucky then I'd love to see you beg for my aid in the future"

Satasha smirked "Who do you think I am boy?. Don't downgrade the worth of your opponents, I believe that was the first thing you were taught"

Zeta narrowing his eyes "You speak as if you know me"

Satasha got closer so she can whisper what she was about to say "I recognised who you are from the very first moment we met but it seems that you've forgotten me love!. You weren't that young. My offer is the same, if you are ready to lose everyone one in the pursuit of power, you know where to find me"

He was baffled, his eyes widened and his breath escalated. He was certain now but remained sceptical. She move away from his path saying "It was so kind of you to visit me, my lord. I hope you sleep peacefully"

Zeta distrustfully examined her intentions while forcing a smile on his face "I am thrilled to see what will you do in the future and how you'll prove your so called worth"

Satasha smiled without answering. Zeta left the house with more questions than he had before entering.

...

[During Zeta's visit, Keno marched toward Lucifer who seemed distressed]

Lucifer frowned once his eyes fell upon Keno.

Keno teasing "Why you reject my love?. Did I disturb your lovely evening with my presence?"

Lucifer unable to tolerate him "Cut the crap Keno, your incompetent friend is in danger"

Keno thought of everyone he knows when he said incompetent but he knew it was Satasha.

Keno "And you are generously warning me, why?"

Lucifer seriously "Look, I don't like that kid and I think that she's worthless incest but that doesn't mean that killing her before a proper trial is fair. I don't want things to end up like it did fifteen years ago"

Keno spitefully "Oh Lucifer the fair and merciful, what would we do without you?"

Lucifer trying to remain calm "You don't grasp the full picture here, they can take her as an excuse to invade your country again and many will die in vain"

Keno sarcastically "Oh no!. Is that so?. Whoa we should act at once then"

Lucifer lost his cool grabbed Keno's collar warning "Listen here dipshit, I don't have the energy for your bullshit so I need to get grip of yourself and think about how to save the kid from being slain"

Keno looking down on him "Calm down love, you'll break a vine or two. I am doing my best here to evade catastrophic consequences and I don't need your pep-talk nor your advice. Coming here to warn me means that one of your messed up family gave the order and you still feel guilty about what happened in that day, so I don't want your petty attempt to do the right thing. If you want the lad to have the right judgment, then you must act and defend her if she's innocent. Now can you do that or you're just wasting my time?"

Lucifer released him thinking about what he said. After a solid minute of silence he replied "If she's innocent then I'd vouch for her, if she's not then I won't stop till I drag your head with her"

Keno "Sounds like a deal"

Lucifer "No it's not, you must protect her first, and if you do then they'll come after you. If you don't then she dies, it's up to you to choose between her and your country" then he left without waiting for Keno's reply.

Lucifer is right even Keno knows that and that's what troubled him. If she's indeed Ananke then he'll kill her himself. After all she's the reason why his family and half of his tribe died that day. He had the exact same conversation with Fuji before finding out where she was, and they both agreed to kill her if she was Ananke, but something felt different now. He only wants to protect her sensing that she's vulnerable, then it came to him 'What if she's playing with me and acting like a helpless soul who desperately wants guidance'.

He whispered "Mark if you are here take me back to the house"

Without revealing himself to anyone Mark did as he was told and they were back to the house.

Satasha was sitting near the fire peering at it, she seemed rather well than she was few hours ago even Lily had conformed it. She told Mark to take them back and he did shortly after Yama hugged his brother and Fuji. Lily invited them all to the wedding and kept repeating to Satasha the instructions of (not using any form of power, not to travel within this week, not to engage in any combat, and to eat healthy food to improve her healing).

After that Satasha sat down with her thoughts while the other two watched her from afar.

Fuji "Something feels different about her"

Keno who also noticed and felt like a fool for believing her "Yeah" he continued "How was the meeting with Zeta"

Fuji "I didn't understand most of what they were saying but before he left she whispered something to him that made him both confused and startled. I've never seen that look on his face before, it made me curious so I asked her but she lied saying that she had threatened him"

Keno doubtfully "He's not the kind to fall on his knees begging for mercy even if he was about to die"

Fuji "Exactly but I didn't persist on this matter, I think she knows that we know"

Keno "Everyone knows what we know, the question is what will we do. If she's what everyone think she is then we all are doomed, even if she wasn't, all eyes will remain on us, those who took her in"

Fuji "So how shall we act?"

Keno "We wait and see" he glanced at her and saw that she was deep in her thoughts, but Mark seemed to be alert. Even with his hood down covering his eyes, Keno knew he was watching them.

Keno to Satasha "Hey kid. I think it's better if your guardian angel hid himself from public eyes"

Satasha who was so deep in her thoughts said "Hmm?"

Keno pointing at Mark "He better not to make himself visible, it's for your own good"

Satasha looking at Mark then Keno "Who him?"

Keno nodded

Satasha "Oh don't worry, he's not my guardian or anything. He's here to make sure I don't lose control again because if I did, this distinguished fellow will reap my soul"

Keno seeing through her lies "That's lovely, still he better hide himself"

Satasha knew he doesn't believe her lies, she got up saying "Oh well I don't blame you for not trusting me, it's on me for not being able to tell you the whole truth"

Keno trying to make her tell the truth without realising "Is that so?. Yet you told me that you don't know the truth that's why you need to go to the cave" he arched his brows waiting for her reply

Satasha smiled and nodded replying "Indeed I don't know That part, but I know things or two that I don't feel safe to share with you. For instance, the fact of who am I truly and how come I have a grim-reaper doing what I ask from him, but hey I didn't ask you why you hadn't slight my throat by now"

Keno enjoying this conversation smirked and gave Fuji a quick glance, he answered "You got me here"

Fuji understand at once what his friend meant by this glance and quickly shifted his glare at Mark.

Satasha who also understood what Keno had suggested to his friend broke the uprising tension declaring "I am not her" she looked seriously at them and continued without blinking "I am not what everyone thinks I am, I am merely a tool for the fate. I might make things better or worse but I am certainly not her"

Keno looked deadly calm at her, he didn't believe a thing of what she had said, yet it was convincing. He drank his wine then said "Keep telling yourself that and you'll believe it someday. Is that what are you planning to say in the trial?"

Satasha smiled brightly "Of course not dummy!. I cannot tell them that I am the one who's going to kill them all for committing hideous crimes and destroy what they've built now can I?"

Keno who knows that is the truth "No, that's highly inconvenient. Yet you can't run from this question, you have to tell the truth..."

Satasha interrupted "For them or for you?"

Fuji immediately "For us". Keno nodded

Satasha glanced at Mark who was unpleased with this conversation, he gave his disapproval.

Satasha "Well it's up to both of you then. Do you want to kill me or use me?"

Fuji "We must know who we're dealing with first then we act"

Satasha "And how does that benefit you?. Either way you guys are already dragged in this mess, and if you presented my head on plate that doesn't stop them from coming after you. You'd be fool to think any of the temples will protect you"

Keno amused by this "So what you propose, a partnership in exchange of your freedom?"

Satasha was also amused "No not really, I can guarantee my freedom myself. I propose a friendship"

Fuji doubtfully "Which kind of friendship you mean?"

Satasha "The kind that can give you what you desire the most"

Keno sarcastically "And in return we pledge our undying loyalty to you?"

Satasha highly amused "Oh please that's so cliché. No, I don't want anything from you. Just do what you've been doing always"

Fuji "How would that benefit you?"

Satasha "It doesn't"

Fuji "Why would you do that then?"

Keno "She wants our trust"

Satasha "No, not really. As I said I want nothing in return, I can pretty much do anything by myself"

Keno "Then you don't need our help in this dilemma?"

Satasha thought for a second then said "I would lie if I said no so I'll answer with maybe"

Keno sensed that she was purposely trying to get them out of the house, he searched the room quickly before noticing why she was acting up. He felt that there's a presence of fifth being with them, he immediately glared at her noticing her proud smirk that he figured out what she's up to, yet he felt that this conversation was true and not an act.

He sighed "I see, well I can't make a deal with someone who only tell lies from the moment we met" he got up but Fuji remained seated looking confused at him, then Fuji sensed movements outside the house, he got up alerted after understanding the situation.

Fuji "Ah what a waste, I really thought you were a wonderful person but it turns that you've been using us all along, and now you are offering this trying to compensate the damage you made and for the kindness we showed you right?"

Satasha smacked her lips saying "Well I am trying my best here"

Keno "Oh please, this is a petty move from you Satasha, you can never win by yourself, but if that's what you want then I shall leave you to the ill fate that awaits you" Keno thought 'I'll try to trust you and you still owe me the truth'.

Satasha knew what he meant by this and said "My offer remains the same if you decided to take advantage of it"

Keno truthfully "Nah, I'll pass" then he left the house with Fuji.

After they've got far from it Fuji inquired "Should we leave her like this?"

Keno trying to be optimistic "I fear that this can help our cause, we'll notify Untar to check on her afterwards. I know she'll manage until then"

Fuji worryingly "With her state, I doubt"

Keno was also concerned but this conversation made him certain about his speculation, the only thing that remains is a proof.

He seriously announced "If she's Ananke, her vessel, or had anything to do with what happened to us, we'll be the ones who kills her"

Fuji doubting "What if we use her till she redeem herself?"

Keno stopped, he hatefully said "Nothing can redeem what she did, even if you're ready to forgive, I am not"

...

[Meanwhile in the house]

Satasha sensed six men approaching the house trying to assassinate her. She went to the kitchen and prepared pot of herbal tea for them.

The six men approached the door waiting to strike but also fearing for their lives.

The tea was nearly ready, she prepared seven cups and placed them on the table inviting "Come in, the tea is almost ready"

No one moved a muscle, they panicked and thought that they are going to die, there's no doubt about that.

Satasha invited again "Oh come on, I am not going to do anything"

One of them bursted in trying to attack her with a dagger. When he saw that she made no reaction and just kept pouring the tea he stopped asking "What are you doing?"

Satasha with warm smile "Pouring the tea as your can see, here drink it, it helps you heal faster" she offer a cup to him.

He didn't took it and remained holding the dagger pointed at her. She sighed and drank the cup she had offered to him saying "See it's not poisonous"

She took the second cup and drank it infront of him then poured one for him, he hesitated a bit but drank it. The others came inside after seeing how different she is from the one that she was hours before.

She took her cup and sat near the fireplace inviting "Come and sit next to the fire, it'll warm you up"

The first one did what she had suggested feeling safe and serene, the others followed him with their cups.

One of them asked "Why are you doing this?"

Satasha kindly "Doing what?"

The man "You know why we came here right?. Aren't you going to attack back?"

Satasha warmly "Why would I?. You're doing what your superiors had ordered. Why would I attack the worker instead of the one who passed the order?. Fear not my friends, you fought bravely in the battle and I am not a threat to you guys. You're just some tired men trying to find peace amid chaos"

Another one asked "Still you need to protect yourself. If we failed they'll send others"

Satasha kindly "I won't fight anyone, I am badly wounded and can no longer use my powers. I am no threat to anyone, even if you guys did what you've been told, I cannot defend myself"

They all fell silent trying to process what's happening.

One of them asked "You are so beautiful and you seem harmless, how come you possess such power?"

Satasha "I made a deal back in Sippar because I thought that I'll lose everyone I care about, so in exchange of such power I gave my life as a price"

The men fell silent again thinking about her words and what to do. They wanted to live and not to die today.

One of the men asked "What shall we do then?"

Satasha "You'll take me back to the camp where I am under everyone's watch, and you'll keep an eye on me seeing if I do anything funny. If I did, kill me at once"

He asked again "What do you mean by funny"

Satasha "Like attacking everyone or your superiors. This way everyone will wait till the trial to hear the truth that I shared with you. If I die by your hands now, they'll turn toward the temple residents and kill them for taking me in"

"Noo!!" One of them objected "My loved one lives there"

Satasha saddened "Unfortunately that's what your superiors are up to"

One of them inquired "But there are some innocent people there, they aren't going to kill everyone right?"

Satasha sadly "I am afraid they will. They've done it once before and many died that day. Your superiors don't care about innocent lives just like they don't care about yours. I mean they've sent you on suicidal mission that if you killed me they'll win, and if I killed you they'll win also"

The men started to question their superiors and seemed to be persuaded by her words. Her captivating beauty and enchanted voice helped her penetrating to their already doubting hearts, and clasp her claws on them making them do as she say. She used hypnotising magic to take over their mind and blurr their sights.

They agreed on her proposal and escorted her back to the camp where everyone stepped away fearing for their lives.

Once she got there, she saw many wounded soldiers and lack of food for the rest. She decided to cook for them, the six men helped her gather the supplies for her soup and prepared it with her. Minute by minute others came to join them for help, after an hour the soup was ready to be served. Satasha drank directly from the pot making sure everyone see that it's not poisoned. The six men took a bowl and ate it, once everyone saw that they rushed toward Satasha who was filling the bowls.

Keno who was monitoring the whole situation said to Fuji "She's more interesting than I've imagined"

Fuji teasing "She learned from the best" glaring at him

Keno teased "Piss off, will you?"

After a while everyone ate and felt rather safe around her, they shared wine and songs with her and she sang a few with them.

Tina who was spying from her tent warned her husband "That girl is more dangerous than we've imagined. I underestimated the situation, I should've kill her myself"

Mordroc saw her as a challenge "She's a fun lad, she's aiming for their love more than their fear"

Zeta who was standing next to his mother watching Satasha having fun added "I like her, let's keep her alive to see where she'll head next"

Tatiana "Are you mad?, Taunting with the evil?"

Mika murmured "Y'all are more evil than she is"

Tatiana hatefully "No one asked for your opinion bastard!"

Mordroc "Heyyy, don't say that again, he's your brother"

Tatiana spitefully "Half brother"

Tina angrily "Shut it!, I am trying to think of a something"

Zeta teasing "Don't bother yourself, it won't work, take a look"

She glanced and saw Marvok drinking and chatting with her, he seemed to be enjoying.

Tina "That brat!"

Zeta adding fuel to her anger "My spy told me that earlier Shettsu was there discussing something with her and Keno, it turns out that Keno knew nothing of her powers neither Ishtar" he told her half lies because he wants Satasha to live and see another day, he knows his mother trust him.

Tina fuming "I'll deal with that weasel later. Any news from your brother?"

Zeta "He accomplished the mission and is heading back with one of them for negotiations"

After an hour Sitka came back with one of the generals who lead the fleet in Acre for negotiations. It was almost dawn and everyone remained alerted just in case. Tina, Marvok, Mordroc, Lucifer, Satan, Zeta, Sitka, along with Keno and Fuji were in the main tent discussing their terms with the enemy.

Satasha who remained between the men sitting near campfire felt drowsy, she wasn't completely healed thus needed to rest but she couldn't let her guard off. One of the men who was sent to kill her brought her a blanket, he grew fondly of her. She smiled faintly with her eyes barely opened "Thank you mister..."

The man "Marco"

Satasha held his hand gently trying to open her eyes and sober herself up "Marco, you are a very handsome fellow"

Marco blushed a bit then pat her head.

One of the soldiers "Ah, I am now envious. What about me fair lady?"

Satasha certainly drunk and tired, said without concentrating at his features at all "Ask me after I sober up mate, I can barely open my eyes"

The soldier "Are you drunk?"

Satasha seriously "No I am Satasha"

The ones who sat near her laughed at her reply.

One of them "That is the lamest thing I've ever heard"

The soldier wiping his tears "Yeah she is drunk, we should take her to a tent"

The six men who were sent to kill her looked at one another. Some of them were waiting for the right moment and it was now.

One of them who had bad intent "I'll take her to Ishtar's tent"

Another one who wanted to kill her "I'll help, come on Satasha we'll take you to your tent"

Satasha took his hand and went with them to the tent, she sensed their intentions but didn't react. After they placed her in the tent, they argued about who should do it.

Satasha who was acting that she was asleep waited for one of them to strike, but before they did anything, A young man came in the tent saying "You two leave, this girl is now under the protection of the red palace, if anything happens to her before the trial you'll face a grieve consequence"

Both of them left without arguing and the young man remained glaring at them walking away.

Before he could turn Satasha sneaked behind him pointing a dagger at his side saying "I should thank you for that but I don't like to be saved by a stalker. Answer this, who sent you?"

The young man was startled because he didn't hear her movements at all "A generous friend"

Satasha poking him "Doesn't he has a name?, I want to thank him personally"

The young man "It's Shettsu"

Satasha moving the dagger away questioned "Does he has two personalities or what?, he's annoying bastard"

The young man defended "He's an honourable man and true to his words..."

Satasha interrupted annoyed "Yeah, Yeah, what does he want now?"

The young man "Nothing, he only gave me the order to protect you"

Satasha threw herself on the bed exhausted

"And what is the name of my guardian angel?"

The young man "Ranku"

Satasha waved her hand without looking at him "And why a guy from the dragon's tribe serve a goblin?"

Ranku "I am not from the dragon's tribe, I came from the southeast lands, my father was a human but my mother was a shifter thus I can only transform to animals not to a fully grown dragon"

Satasha opened her eyes to get a better look "Come closer, my vision is blurry at the moment"

Ranku bent down near her so she can get a better look "I haven't seen you clearly either"

Satasha grabbed his collar threatening "If you tried to do anything from harassment to slicing my throat, I'll hunt you down and kill you"

Ranku who was startled for a second pushed her away disgustedly "No need to threaten me, I don't want to be here as much as you don't want me, giving me a job of baby sitter, that's a disgrace"

Satasha who saw through his mind and knew what kind of a man he is declared "I like you, you seem fun" she cuddled the pillow muttering before she sleeps "Poor you, you have to deal with that grumpy hag"

Ranku sighed "Yeah I cannot argue with that, can I"

After four hours the sun was high in the sky glazing it's heat on the camp.

Satasha woke up to the sound of Ranku sharpening a sword near the entrance of the tent.

She shouted "Stop that, it gives me headache"

Ranku not stopping "You should wake up either way, they want to talk to you"

Satasha whining "Then wake me up as a normal person would do"

Ranku said nothing and continued sharpening his sword. Satasha who was extremely annoyed threw the pillow at him hitting his head "I said stop"

Ranku who reached the end of his patience, rose angrily pointing the sword at her. Satasha saw that he's the same age as she is with slim body and tanned skin, his eyes is faintly yellow with crooked nose, his brows were thick and as black as his hair.

He was fuming at her "I had to guard your pathetic arse from enemies while you snored so loud that I know for certain everyone heard it, and you throw a darned pillow at me?!"

Satasha who didn't waste any energy on him replied while yawning "Okay, sorry, chill!"

Ranku trying to relax exhaled deeply and sat near the entrance.

Satasha sat on the edge of the bed whining "I should've drank less and ate something instead, I am famished"

Ranku calmly "Do you want me to bring you something?"

Satasha shook her head, she took a minute before speaking "Can I take a bath to sober up?"

Ranku "No, I don't think you have enough time for that, they want you ready within an hour"

Satasha yawning again "What do they want?"

Ranku "I have no idea"

After an hour...

Satasha went to the main tent with Ranku and there she found the tribe leaders along with Keno, Fuji, Zeta, Satan, Tina, Mika, and Untar. They were waiting for her and Marvok to arrive, he liked to be the last so everyone can notice his faulty greatness.

Satasha stood in front them so they can glare at her as much as they can, the predators were waiting for her to show any signs of weakness so they can launch on her or in this case they were waiting for her to confirm their doubts. On the other hand Satasha was standing there looking innocent, neat, and smiling gently. She didn't look at anyone she was just trying to soothe herself because she knew what was coming.

Marvok entered the tent pacing "I am sorry to keep you all waiting, I had to dress up nicely so we can celebrate our victory after this" then he sat in the middle, between Mordroc and Tina. He continued addressing Satasha "Please identify yourself"

Satasha was spacing out she didn't hear him at first but quickly snapped saying "Is that the formal hearing or is it just to display me in front of everyone?"

Tina warning "Don't be snarky, answer the question"

Zeta intervened "This isn't the formal hearing, we would want to know where to place you before the actual trial"

Satasha who expected that sighed "Well, I am Satasha and I'd like to be place in Tina's custody"

Everyone gasped and started to object.

Keno muttered worryingly "What are you doing?!"

Fuji understood her move "Creating chaos"

Keno rubbed his stash trying to predict her plan.

Marvok knocked on the table shouting "Order!, Order!" The arguing crowd faded to murmur, he continued addressing Satasha "You have no right in deciding where to be held in custody, you are here to answer the questions only. Next time you say anything foolish, we'll place you in the Abyss. Do you understand?"

Satasha nodded, she was secretly aiming to be placed in the Abyss but acted as if she was frightened by the idea of it.

Keno immediately understood what she was up to, even though she's a good liar, her eyes always lit up when her lies is believed, And so they did. Everyone were fooled by her act except for him and Zeta; who was amused.

Marvok "Now, I'll start again, introduce yourself, your name and what tribe you belong to"

Satasha anxiously holding her left arm "My name is Satasha, and I am an orphan with no clear origin"

Mordroc inquired "How come you don't know from where do you belong?"

Untar intervened "She had a terrible accident that led her to lose all her memories. At first when she came we thought that she was faking it but Ishtar and Lord Keno looked into her mind and saw nothing there"

Tina addressing Keno "Lord Keno do you confirm that?"

Keno replied "Yes, you can see for yourself "

Tina glanced at Mika and he understood her order. He walked to Satasha and looked into her mind, everything was blurry and unclear, he couldn't get much apart from the latest events. Before he let go he caught a glimpse of himself in her memories, once he let go of her he glared suspiciously at her not knowing what that memory was. It was when she was sitting next to him chatting merrily, and he was glaring happily at her.

Tina noticed his hesitation asked "So?"

Mika flinched "Nothing!, her memories are fogged as if it was sealed or forgotten"

Tina insisted "Did you see anything helpful?"

Mika hesitated on whether he can say what he saw or not, he took one glanced at her to see what he'll answer. He saw that she was glaring kindly at him this whole time with gentle smile that warmed his heart instantly.

He shook his head and walked to his brother standing behind him as if he wanted to be shielded from her. He was young at that time and Zeta was the one who took care of him.

Satasha happily "He's adorable fellow, I like him" pointing at Mika

Tina irritated "Know your place girl, he's off limits"

Satasha persisting "Now I want to be held in his custody, at least I am going to see a handsome fellow every now and then"

Keno arched his brows surprised by her audacity, while everyone were trying not to laugh and be serious.

Marvok enjoying "As I said, it's not up to you to decide. Now after we knew you had lost your memories, tell us if you knew you had the ability to tame shadows"

Satasha teasing "Honestly speaking, what's the point of asking these questions now?. I might lie you know, but sure, why not. I'll answer. No, I didn't. I just knew how to control magic"

Mordroc pressed "You know this is a simple yes or no answer"

Satasha insisted "I don't see the point of this interview and these questions will be repeated in the trial, so why are we waisting time on this?"

The white foxes tribe leader "She's right, I say we just placed her in the Abyss and get over this matter"

The red foxes tribe leader "I agree,who are in favour of the idea?"

Many replied with affirmation except Untar, Keno, Tina, and Marvok.

Marvok hatefully announced "The majority had agreed in your imprisonment in the Abyss. We'll place you there till the trial, do you concur?"

Satasha spitefully "Will it matter if I said no?"

Marvok "No it won't" he addressed Lucifer and Satan "Take her to the Abyss"

His sons did as they were told.

As soon as they left everyone started to cheer for their victory, Keno walked behind them unnoticed.

He called "Wait"

Satan alarmed him "You cannot do that!, you'll be seen, think about the consequences"

Keno ignored him, he inquired "What is your plan Satasha?, please tell me you have one"

Satasha winked at him and walked away without answer.

Keno sighed deeply saying "Ah, she is going to kill us all" and walked away smirking.

The twins had no idea what just happened but they knew it was an act, they know Keno too well but Satasha's intentions remained mystery to them.

After they crossed a port gate to the entrance of the Abyss, Satan asked "What is your motives lad?, why did you reveal yourself and endangering everyone who's related to you?"

Satasha scanning the place, it was dark and she couldn't spot it's border. She asked "If you saw that your brother is dying instead of Aiva would you sit quietly and mourn him or you'd take revenge?"

Satan "I'd take my vengeance quietly after I find a witch doctor for him"

Satasha looked firmly at him asking "What if he died right there?, don't lecture me about valour and value Sauro!, we both know anyone would've lose their shit if their loved one is in danger"

Satan confused "How do you know my name?"

Satasha snarking "Oh please!, are you going to show me my cell or not?"

Lucifer doubting her intentions "No, you just need to walk forward"

Satasha glared disgustedly at him then turned to Sauro "Anyway, I would like from you to keep me here as much as possible. Delay my trial a bit if you can. Meanwhile, I'll be here trying to remember anything that might help my case, so.." Lucifer interrupted "Nothing can help your case kid, they'll vote for your death, then they'll attack the others"

Satasha spitefully "As much as I despise you for your unnecessary comments back then but you are right. That's why before I enter here, I'll leave you with this" she took one step back before continuing, sensing the Abyss getting grasp of her.

She look back and forth from Shettsu to Sauro declaring "You two must stick to your promises that you made back when I took you in; otherwise, you'll face the consequences" then she immediately walked into the Abyss letting it pull her in.

The twins looked confused at her statement because neither of them knows what she meant.

Shettsu "What was that about?"

Sauro truthfully "I have no idea!"

...

[Satasha in the Abyss]

She felt warm and welcomed, she took a deep breath then broke her act stating "You were too loud, I almost couldn't hear myself talking" she addressed the figure behind her angrily.

"Well deserved" the figure spoke spitefully.

Satasha "In case you haven't noticed, I am trying to save your sorry arse from death"

The figure marched closer, it was non other than her own reflection, she grabbed her collar threatening "Give me back my body or I'll drag you to the depth of hellfire myself"

Satasha pushed her disgustedly "Believe me when I say I am not enjoying my presence in your pathetically weak body. Yet we need to survive if you want to break free from me, so until that happens, I am taking control of this body since it was meant for me"

Her reflection fuming "Listen here dipshit, I don't care about who you were, as long as you are living inside of me you do as I say. Trust me it would be awful for you the moment I take back control"

Satasha "Spare me the chitchat, your threats are meaningless. I advise you to leave the sentiment aside and learn how to play the game. Watch and learn kid"

The reflection disappeared the moment someone else walked into the Abyss. Satasha turned around and saw Zeta walking carefully to her mocking "I didn't expect your sanity would be affected this fast"

Satasha sarcastically "Bold of you to assume that I had one in the first place"

Zeta smirk "Perhaps, now tell me why you desperately wanted to end up here?"

Satasha "You know why, but how come you are here?, I thought only the twins can control the Abyss"

Zeta snivelled mischievously "Well... it's me we are talking about, so I have my own ways of getting what I want"

Satasha proudly "That's my boy!, tell me what more you want from me?"

Zeta "A conformation!, you didn't give me one, only words and promises"

Satasha offered her hand "Take my hand and you'll find out yourself"

Zeta doubtfully "How can I be certain that you won't harm me?"

Satasha truthfully "And why would I do that?"

Zeta hesitate then held her hand, the moment their skin touched the Abyss turned from pitch black to a wheat field gleaming gold under the setting sun.

Zeta was stunned, he stepped back inquiring "What kind of magic is this?"

Satasha snapped her fingers and the field shifted to the pitch black again.

Zeta disbelieving "What was that just now?"

Satasha arrogantly "The Abyss is under my control as well"

Zeta interrupted "In this short period, I don't think so"

Satasha asked "Do you know why the Abyss was created in the first place?"

Zeta shook his head.

Satasha "The Abyss is part of me as much as it is me, so basically we are in my subconscious"

Zeta confused "And how do you consider that as a proof?"

Before Satasha could answer, voice of a man answered from behind "Because the Abyss is nothing but an extension of him"

Zeta turned to see Lucifer coming from nowhere.

Satasha brightly "I knew, you'd remember my sweet child"

Lucifer unwillingly "I had my doubts, but then the evidence lead me back here to you"

Satasha smirk then explained to Zeta "The Abyss is a place between places, it exists everywhere and nowhere to be accurate, it's the place that manifested in the borders of a port gate. This endless darkness is the key of our transportation between one location to the other. Back in the days it's control was given to Shettsu under one condition"

Lucifer/Shettsu continued "That 'when the time comes and one of us is in distress, we'll save the other'. Yeah I remember it, it took me a while but I did"

Satasha questioned "How much time in the real world?"

Zeta answer "Two days approximately"

Satasha "It felt like two minutes before you showed up!. That's not good, I need to act fast then"

Shettsu "To do what exactly?"

Satasha "To break free from this body"

Zeta immediately "We cannot allow that, if you are who you claim to be, I don't want you to waste the years of my efforts to reach where I've reached by another act of tantrum"

Shettsu "I agree with him, as much as I'd like to help you but there are lives in a stake. I cannot allow you to discard them like nothing as you've always have"

Satasha saw that coming and sighed "I see, then I shall ask you to save me from this distress and our deals end there. You two can walk separate ways as you wish, and I'll do it my own since I don't have the luxury of time here, I leave my life in your hands" she lowered her head a bit.

Zeta filled with doubts "I'll do the best to save you from this, that's what I owe you"

Shettsu "And you have my word also"

They both left.

Satasha sighed of relief "Man, I knew I must not count on them, now where were we?"

She walked a bit before saying "Ahh, here we are"

She placed her hand on what seemed to be nothing but darkness and pushed it using her powers, a hidden door opened which lead to dimly lighted room.

She stretched her arms breaking the chains she was held in saying "Home sweet home"

The door closed behind her. With a snap the room lights ignited brighting the room up.

Piles, and piles of scrolls, books, empty parchments, and carved tablets scattered here and there. She knew where to find what she was seeking, within a minute she pulled the parchment she needed and read what was written "In order to make the circle of truth one must present blood from the caster and the accused...I can use that... a sacrifice, a red spider Lily, sapphire, and saffron" she read fast through the instructions, then said "Ah well, I did good by not telling them everything I know. I can manage my way through this alone"

She walked to the cupboard that stood in the corner opposite the scattered piles and took from it red nectar of an extinct black flower, she mixed it with the wine that was placed on the table near by, then drank the cup whole. It tasted like a rotten egg which made her almost throw up but she stopped herself. She bind herself with chains of her making so she can use her powers freely, then went back to the Abyss acting sad and helpless.

...

[The day of the trial]

After taking consent from everyone, the trial was held in the red palace's court yard.

The attendance of the trial included all the tribe leaders who witnessed her powers along with Naina, Ishtar, Amun ra, Yu the great, Yama the just and Tina. The judges were Yama along with Tina and Marvok.

The yard was shaped as a pit with two higher half circled levels for the judges and the witness, and the bottom is for the accused. The pit was big enough to hold the gathering, they made it in the past days for this occasion. The pit was in isolated location were no servants or curious men could enter due to its magical shields.

The circle of truth was set up and ready to be casted as soon as Satasha stood in its center. Mika was the caster, Tina trusts his abilities to control such powerful spell. Her blood was obtained by Mika himself before she arrived at the pit. Her abilities to shift spells to her control with the aid of the nectar would grant her full access not only to the caster but the judges who has the sacrifice with her blood infront of them. The sacrifice was a robin; it's main usage is to be vessel that transmits the curse of lying to her, in this case agonising pain that crushes her heart as well as her soul.

The circle was an indicator for the audience that when she lies it turns to fire that gets closer each time she lies.

Satasha was familiar with this and planned to make a show out of it.

Once everything was ready, Satasha entered the pit frightened. She didn't over act but kept it real, her breaths were short and her face was pale. She walked heavily toward the circle being pushed by two guards behind her every now and then. The clinking of her chains made everyone stop talking the moment they heard it.

Keno who; was sitting the gathering, was worried about how this trial will end. On the other hand, Ishtar was worried about Satasha's well being, she looked mal fed and drained out.

The gathering scanned her sharply as if she's a rare antique in a gallery. Once she entered the circle it lit up, now that everyone was seated, the judges can begin the trial. Yama the just was the head of the inquiry sitting between Tina and Marvok.

Satasha had no knowledge about him only rumours, she planned to trap Tina and Marvok in division making her survival more likely. She knows what and how they think, Tina want her dead since she fears the consequences but Marvok grew more arrogant by the time, he'd gamble on her so he can use her later. Since Ishtar was denied from voting and Keno took the neutral side from the beginning, she has to earn at least twelve votes in her favour. She has to act completely oblivious about her situation as for her memories, the most important questions would be how she had obtained such power and why the reapers were with her. If she manages to convince them, then she is off the hook, but if she fails, she's facing death penalty or worse.

Yama announced "Greetings everyone. As you all know I am appointed to be the main judge in this trial and my honourable mates Tina and Marvok would be in charge. Once the trial ends and we hear from the accused and the gathering, the decision would be made. If the choice of penalty is made, the day would be decided at the end of session. If we made certain that she's innocent, a proper judgement would be decided later on. If anyone has something to add before trail, speak now"

The gathering said nothing, he proceeded "Then let's begin!"

____

Yama addressing Satasha "Please tell us your name and position"

Satasha with shaky voice, trying to ease herself "My name is Satasha, and I work as a mercenary under Ishtar's care" she peered anxiously at the gathering and her eyes met with Keno who was hiding his smirk behind his hand. He saw through her act and was interested in what she'll show.

Satasha then shifted her eyes to Mika, she could feel his power holding her down. She didn't want to temper with the spell immediately but let it get deteriorated gradually.

Yama sensed her absent mind, knocked on the table infront of him asking "Your full name kid, what's your father's name and from what tribe you are?"

Satasha startled"I don't know"

Yama irritated "You don't know what?"

Satasha "My name or where I am from. I am an orphan and showed up one day at my fostered house. They gave me this name and made me as their child"

Yama inquired "And did they tell you about your origins?"

Satasha shook her head "No, they said that during that time there was a war the killed the minority of tribes as well as humans and I could be just human with the abilities to tame magic"

Yama "You say tame. What kind of magic you use?"

Satasha truthfully "I can control elements very good before I met Ishtar, I had a tutor who taught me how to do so. During my time in the temple, I learned how to heal"

Yama "What about the ability to tame shadows?, as I have heard, you are an excellent spy because you lurk in the shadows. What do you say about that?"

Satasha honestly "I can control fire, and with it the lights. This helps me hiding in the shades so I won't be noticed, also I use an illusion enchantment that helps me hide in plain sight. For instance, I can decisive the opposite in believing that I am invisible"

Tina interrupted "When you say deceive, you mean.."

Satasha barged "I mean that I can control one's mind in thinking that I am invisible"

Tina insisted "But you said you've only learned how to control elements and healing. Where did you learn how to do these stuff?"

Satasha sensed that she wants to make her angry but she shifted her emotions from fear to sorrow stating "I don't want to talk about that" she gaze through the flames trying to make her eyes get irritated by heat.

Yama urged "This is a trial kid, you don't get to decide what to hide and what to say. If you were asked something again and you refused to answer then it's considered as a lie and you'll face the consequences"

Satasha slowly looked at him with tears in her eyes. It was a good starter for her act of sadness, she tried to remember something extremely sad and it worked. Her chin quivered and a single tear drop fell from her eyes, she wiped the next trying to make herself look strong in front of everyone.

Tina doubting the act "Speak child"

Satasha bit her lower lip before answering in quivering tone "I was taught these tricks from my tormentor, he umm...(she wiped her tears), he taught me things that can be used to kill his enemies"

Marvok interested "Your foster family did that to you?"

Satasha shook her head "No" snivelling "I was sold out to another man who kept torturing me for years"

Yama interrupted "And why you were abandoned?"

Satasha took a deep breath before answering "Because I was an outsider, an outcast of unknown origins that might be a bastard. My foster family didn't like my presence very much especially my eldest brother, he sold me to some child lusting abuser, who uses kids with gifts as he said to do his dirty business" she sighed deeply and snivelling with real sadness, she continued "And I was his best accomplishment, he stripped me out of my humanity and made me his puppet" she exhaled deeply "And I killed so many people for him, just to earn his favour"

Yama somewhat sympathised with her "And who was your abuser?"

Satasha scanned her audience and saw some felt sorry for her, she cleared her throat before answering with steady voice "Some human known by the name Flitch Meadows. That's the name I heard, it's not his real name" the fire got closer to her

Yama warned "If you lie, the fire would eventually eat you alive. What was he called?"

Satasha twisting the fact "He never said his real name, I only know that he's pure evil that l'll recognise if I saw him again"

She gazed at the flames, they were steady. During her sad act she used Mika's hesitance when she mentioned that she was a bastard, a mistreated one and turned the spell to her control. It took sometime to fully control it, Mika was indeed a powerful mage. When the fire got closer to her, it did willingly under her command. Mika didn't sense the flaw.

Tina not sympathetic with her torment asked "And what if we investigated about this man and found no one?"

Satasha spitefully "Of course you won't hear anything about him!. I killed him and his trustworthy followers the day that I escaped"

Tina "So there's no one that can support your story?"

Satasha annoyed "Ask the village that I was in. It's located somewhere in North west"

Marvok "That's a wide range. You don't know where you were?"

Satasha gave herself a minute to make them believe that she was thinking but in reality she was releasing the effect of the nectar on him, she answered "I was held in a cage and only saw few of my surroundings, but from what I remember, it was on a high ground above water, where the sun seemed lager and within reach. I think it was an Island unknown for men. It had black shore"

All the gathering murmured, she chose that place because if it's approximate to Olympus. Since it floated near it, so basically she told them half truths. On the other hand, the black shore meant for specific group of humans, that burned everyone who worships anything but their beloved star collection. They were fanatic and none dared to infiltrate them due to their strong beliefs and unwelcoming attitude toward newcomers.

Yama questioned "And how did you end up in Babylon?"

Satasha truthfully "The day that I escaped, I jumped off the cliff trying to kill myself but I had cold feet at the last minute and made a port-gate before losing consciousness. I didn't intended to go there, but I was lucky that I did. Going there was the best thing that happened to me ever"

Ishtar was overwhelmed, she teared up a bit but remained composed.

Tina not caring "How lovely, you had you happy ending but that doesn't explain how you could tame shadows and ended the battle single handedly"

Satasha now had to act, if she let the fire loose it would eat her up and be exposed. She loosed it a bit for Mika to make him believe that he's the caster, she answered "It all happened in Sippar after me and lord Shamsh fought against the army of north. He and I were about to lose our life when I saw a hooded figure lurking near Shamsh, I thought that he was death..."

Marvok interrupted "You can see the reapers?"

Satasha truthfully "I have the ability to recognise and tame magic, and the invisibility of the reapers are no exception" she continued before Tina could interrupt her "When I say tame, I mean that I can sense magical powers being used near me, and my ability to shift them after I have fully grasp on it and understand how it works. This is my specialty, I can feel the magic as if it calls me, like a tingling sensation"

Tina "But how did you see them?"

Satasha "That time he showed himself. He was trying to take something from Shamsh and it wasn't his soul. So I bargained with him, the price was my life"

Yama trying to understand "So you made a deal with him, your life in exchange of powers?, and he willingly accepted?, I find this hard to believe"

Marvok agreed "True, why would he agree for such thing?, you don't hold much significance nor has the ability to obtain such power in short time without exploding"

Satasha found herself on the edge, one wrong word and it's over. The nectar made her blood aromatised, and the judges are now fully saturated with it, meaning she can now control their mind into believing her. She didn't need all of them, Yama is the main target, Marvok would naturally agree with him because he wants what she has, and she needs to offer something wanted, something feared by them but also desired, just like Ananke's powers and status.

She scanned at the gathering trying to think of something that fits the act that she made and somewhat accepted. The truth means execution, a lie means that Mika will notice that the spell is no longer under his control.

Distressed by the situation, she replied "I refuse to answer this question"

She made the circle move a bit closer synchronised with Mika's movement.

Yama reminding her "You understand that you are in no position to have the right of secrecy, this isn't your trial only, it's temple's also, hiding anything means death for anyone involved with you, you understand?"

Satasha bit her lip, she was truly anxious. Having her lie phrased in a manner that is somewhat acceptable was tricky in this question. She stared at Tina trying to phrase her words carefully, then it occurred to her, the perfect answer, she sighed deeply while lowering her head as if she's exhausted from the weight of truth she's about to speak "That's because...(she sighed again). That's because I am..." she gazed at Ishtar declaring "I am sorry my lady but I cannot afford losing everyone, I have to tell them the truth"

Everyone was on the edge of their seat, getting closer to hear the reveal clearly.

Yama intrigued "Speak child"

Satasha glanced at him declaring "I am one myself"

Tina irritated by the delay "One of what?"

Satasha "I am a reaper, a grim reaper"

The gathering were stunned by the announcement, they were speechless and none dared to say anything. Keno was scared of this statement, it's a two edged knife and not the solution he'd say right here and now.

Marvok aghast "What do you mean?, you just said that you don't know your origin?, how did you lie about that?" He moved his fixed gaze to Mika who was frightened as well.

Mika truthfully "She didn't lie, even if I failed to notice the other punishment would have shaken her"

Satasha building up her crafted lie "Indeed, I didn't lie about not knowing my origin, it wasn't because I didn't know I have the reapers abilities, it was due to my lack of knowledge of my past life, before I became Satasha, I was a reaper but I renounced my powers and identity to become a mortal"

Tina nervous of what this means "That doesn't make sense!"

Yama "Yes, indeed. If you've lost your memories, how come you remember what you are"

Satasha "That day on Sippar, I was having near death experience, and in that moment I saw a reaper. When I asked for his help trying to bargain with him or even make a deal to grant me a miracle, he told me what am I and what are the stakes of this. Indeed I have or did have the reapers' abilities to control space and time which allowed me to transport the enemy to different place within the dark dome, but it's all gone now. The trade I made was simple, if I choose to have my old powers again, my life span is reduced to quarter. The more power I use the less years I have to live, thus the curse of death and love exists upon my soul, you can confirm it yourself"

Yama placed his hand on the cup to see her fate, he was in charge of guiding lost souls to heaven as well as condemning the abusers to hell. He was the lord of death and justice for the mortals in his regiment area. He sensed two curses upon her, one a binding curse and the other was death and love curse.

He confirmed "She speaks the truth, here check it yourself" he handed the cup to Tina who confirmed the same thing.

Tina interrogating "The death and love curse means that if your loved one lived, you'll die. Does this mean that Aiva was your loved one?"

Satasha "She's more than a friend to me, she's like a sister, and I could never let her die"

Marvok playing along "So, you are going to die soon then, since she's alive and well?"

Satasha "Yes"

Marvok "How soon?"

Satasha "Depends if you pass my execution order or not, if not then after two years or something, I'll die; since I used so much of my power that left me almost helpless"

Yama "Let's say we believe you are a reaper and you didn't lie to us or manipulated us" (he believed her as everyone without the use of her blood) "How can we trust that you won't turn against us near future and kill us all?"

Satasha "I am powerless as you can see my lord, a flu might kill me. I have used powers beyond my body's ability to handle and in return my body is slowly deteriorating toward its end, like Lord Marvok stated, I might explode and drop dead in any minute"

The gathering looked at one another, they believed her for being a reaper and grew more desirable to use her as a medium to reach her full power. The reaper's abilities were always a matter of interest for many, their full potentials remained a mystery but they can control space and time allowing them to jump through it without disturbing the balance, yet they cannot interfere with fate. They served the fallen for so long before the coup and were his loyal servants, no one knew why they chose to act against him in the past or where they dwell. They remain until this day the servants of fate. Satasha knew what it meant to be one of them, they are feared by everyone and respected by others, being a renounced one means she had committed a grieve sin or she chose to die as a human, the very thing that they loathed. It's a stigma for her and an opportunity to those who crave to be the strongest. Thus it saves her life by putting it in danger.

Yama "I think we've heard enough in this matter, does anyone want to ask her before we decide her fate?"

Zeta immediately before Tina could speak "If I may"Yama nodded, he asked "When you say that you had lost your memories of your past life and the kind reaper told you that you were a renounced one, what about that moment in the shore when many appeared to restrain you, they seemed to rather respect you as if you were their leader. If I was a reaper and gave you access to your power, wouldn't it need only one to stop you; but five or more I didn't count, makes me wonder of your post as a reaper"

The gathering murmured, he was right, this matter needs to be cleared.

Satasha tried her best not to smile, she didn't know if he's helping her or not. However, she was certain that he's enjoying this show.

Satasha acted confused "I don't really remember the reapers true abilities, but at that moment I was blinded by rage. You see after seeing how the battle was heading and Aiva's injury, I lost myself in anger. When I was beating the enemy I almost lost myself completely, and losing myself means losing my control of the powers. Thus, everything in the dome collapses, myself included"

Tina interrupted "So you mean that, in that moment we could've died?"

Satasha explaining "No, not you. I specifically separated you from that place, if anything happened in it none would be affected, I used a binding spell for that. That's why when I transferred the enemy none were affected. Losing my control means that I might've killed the leader and it wasn't my judgment to pass, it meant that I interfered with his fate. Eventually, losing my life and powers right there"

Marvok "Still it requires one reaper to stop you"

Satasha "I don't need to explain to you what blind rage means my lord. I've heard once that it took a dozen to stop Lord Mordroc from killing a man once, why this is different?"

Marvok said nothing.

Yama "Now let's decide her fate, you can take her to the palace dungeons"

Two guards reappeared after Mika broke the circle of fire and set her free from the truth spell. He walked with them to the dungeons where he remained with her waiting for the judgement.

He ordered the guards to step away for a bit because he wanted to talk to her.

After the guards stood away he asked "How did you do it?"

Satasha acting stupid "Did what?"

Mika whispering "Taking the control from me, I am not an idiot, I noticed that for a long time"

Satasha walked closer and held the bars, she smiled proudly "You are a very powerful guy, it's a pity that you are overlooked by Tina's presence. If what you are saying is correct, why didn't you notify them?"

Mila stepped closer to her, they were inch apart, he whispered "If I did so, I wouldn't have the time to ask you about that memory of yours, how do you know me?" He held the bar frightened from the answer

Satasha smiled faintly and held his hand answering "It's not how, it when?, we had met but not in this life time"

Mika confused not noticed her hand touching his "What do you mean?"

Satasha moved her hand away placing it on his cheek replying "I am from the future"

He felt her warm hand caressing his face, he didn't know what to feel or say, before he could say anything the guards called "Sir they want her back"

He answered without breaking his gaze from her "Yeah, take her away". The guards came and opened the door.

Satasha warmly "I trust you Mika, but do you trust me?"

They took her away to the pit leaving him with his thoughts, he slowly followed.

___

In the pit. Satasha stood waiting for the results, she knew her survival is high now after she had successfully infiltrated to Yama's mind as well as Marvok's, and with their votes for her survival those who follows them would approve with it.

Yama announced "After we've discussed this issue amongst ourselves, we concluded that the accused named Satasha, is neither free of all charges nor guilty. She'll remain confined under Lucifer's supervision for the remaining years she'll live. If she was lying, then Lucifer has the authority to kill her at once. If we were provided by enough evidence that proves her innocence during her confinement, then she's free to live her life far away from the system. The majority agreed to this and it shall be spread to all tribes so they can lead by example" the gathering bumped their feet as a form of agreement, he continued "And in the matter that concerns the temple. We've decided to stop all contacts with it until further notice, meaning that it's no longer a political place that we gather for formal meetings in but rather a normal temple that we're allowed to go to in time of need. It's position as a neutral grounds shall remain the same as for their rights to hold peace conventions, but their rights to participate in making major decisions with the system is stopped for some time. This will also be spread amongst the tribes, does anyone has something to add?"

No one said anything.

Yama stood up and the gathering did so too, he declared "This trial has ended, if anyone could give evidence that helps making the final judgment, be kind to present it to me or my friend Yu, we are easier to reach than my honourable friends Tina and Marvok"

They all nodded and started to leave the pit one by one except Keno, Ishtar, and Lucifer.

The chains were placed away releasing her so she could be held by Ishtar's warm arms.

Ishtar concerned "Oh my dear child how I was concerned for you"

Satasha embraced her "I am so sorry that you had to face this because of me"

Ishtar cradled her head "Apologise for nothing child, it's all in the past now"

Satasha "How's Aiva?"

Ishtar "Getting better by time"

Keno feeling like a third wheel "I must say, I thought your death was certain or you'd break, but you did well Satasha, you can rest now"

Satasha spitefully "Yeah sure, be relieved while I am with that abomination"

Ishtar defended "He's the reason why your punishment is reduced, he practically saved you from a worse fate"

Keno agreed "Yes indeed, him and Zeta reduced your penalty from being sealed to supervision" he glanced at her as if he knows that they met in the Abyss and planned this out.

Satasha doubtfully "I say they have other intentions, especially Zeta"

Lucifer cleared his throat. They all turned

"It's time for our departure"

Ishtar kissed her cheeks ordering "Stay safe and don't do anything stupid"

Satasha truthfully "I promise"

Keno presented his hand to shake hers "And try not to kill Shettsu"

Satasha giggle and hugged him instead, he pat her back gently. After that they walked in different roads.