As the dust settled and the echoes of destruction faded into the distance, the survivors of Red Prairie Village slowly gathered in what remained of the town square. The once bustling village was now a wasteland of broken timber, shattered stone, and twisted metal. Smoke rose from scattered fires, and the acrid scent of burning wood hung in the air.
Bass stood near the center of the gathering, hands resting on his hips, staring out at the ruins. His coat, dirtied from the battle, flapped lazily in the fading breeze. Mary, standing beside him, looked equally grim as she wiped the sweat and grime from her brow. Behind them, the remaining villagers and soldiers of the Frontier Brigade shuffled through the wreckage, searching for anything salvageable, any sign of what had once been home.
Zipper crouched near the ruins of the guard tower she had barely escaped, her small hands lifting pieces of wood and debris as she tried to make sense of it all. Her face, usually bright and curious, was clouded with frustration and confusion. Wolf stood a little distance away, leaning on Poldark, his massive ARM, now silent but still radiating a menacing presence.
“Never thought I’d see the day a whole town got leveled like this,” Bass muttered, shaking his head. His voice was low, full of disbelief. “Whatever that thing was… it sure as hell wasn’t just any ol’ regular bastard.”
Mary sighed, wiping the edge of her blade before she sheathed it. “No. It was something much worse. That... Phalanx… they were something beyond anything we’ve faced before.”
Captain Billy, battered but still standing, approached them with a grim look on his face. "We’ve lost good men today. And for what? To fight some monster from another world?" He glanced around at the ruined village, then at his remaining soldiers. "This whole thing… it was supposed to be a parlay. And now look at us. What happened?"
Zipper finally spoke, standing up and brushing the dust from her pants. “It was Phalanx. She was after the Guardian’s power. She corrupted Zeldukes and used it to do… whatever this is.” She gestured around at the decimated landscape, her voice tinged with a mix of anger and sadness. “And then… she just left. Shot into the sky like a star, leaving us to deal with the mess.”
Bass rubbed his chin, staring at the massive crater left behind by the First Root’s launch. “She couldn’t control the power. That’s what happened. She was too strong for her own good, but not strong enough to take root here. And when things started going south, she bailed.”
“Left us with nothing but ruins,” Mary said bitterly, her hand tightening on the hilt of her sword. “We stopped her, sure, but at what cost?”
Captain Billy stared at the remnants of the once-thriving village, the weight of the situation heavy on his shoulders. His voice was grave as he spoke, breaking the grim silence. "At the cost of the Frontier Guard being able to operate."
Bass, Mary, Zipper, and the other survivors turned their attention to him, the weight of his words sinking in.
Billy continued, his tone somber but steady. "This village wasn’t just some outpost. Red Prairie was our supply auxiliary—a place where the Guard could come to refresh our supplies, repair our equipment, and take stock. The mayor here, he was military, but barely. Most of the soldiers stationed here were the worst the Guard had to offer. Those who couldn’t keep themselves in line. They were sent here to be out of the way. It was supposed to be a quiet place, but... well, it looks like Oka and Nise had other plans."
Bass rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "So, they showed up, took over the place after the mayor married Oka, and then... what? Decided to keep the supplies for themselves?"
Captain Billy nodded grimly. "That’s the best guess we’ve got. They must’ve decided they could run the place better. Maybe they figured they’d start their own little kingdom out here, holding onto supplies meant for us." He looked around, his expression hardening. "But now... with the village in ruins and them nowhere to be found, it’s likely they ran off before things really went south."
Mary stepped forward, her brow furrowed. "So, what now? We dig through what’s left, try to find anything useful?"
Billy sighed, glancing at the rubble where the storage cellar had been. "We’ll need to dig out the cellar eventually. There’s bound to be more supplies buried under there. But for now, we pick through what we can and get everyone back to the safety of the fort."
Zipper looked up, concern flashing in her eyes. "Why the rush? We can’t just leave everything behind, can we?"
Billy met her gaze with a grim look. "It’s dangerous after nightfall out here, especially this close to the Frontier. The lands beyond this village aren’t just empty. They’re roamed by savage beasts, things that are more dangerous than anything you can imagine. You can’t go for an hour into the Frontier without running into something deadly. The Brigade keeps those critters out, but without the re-supplies from here, we won’t be able to keep it up for long."
Bass frowned, his grip tightening on Peacemaker as he scanned the horizon. The distant landscape, once a place of simple prairie grass and open skies, now felt like a dark unknown. The Frontier wasn’t just wilderness—it was a dangerous, hostile land filled with creatures no one wanted to face without being fully equipped.
"Alright," Bass said, his voice resolved. "We gather what we can and get moving."
The group set to work, combing through the wreckage of Red Prairie Village, searching for anything useful. Broken crates, torn supplies, shattered remnants of the lives that had once thrived here. As they worked, a heavy silence settled over them, interrupted only by the occasional grunt of effort or whispered prayer for the fallen.
Wolf knelt beside the bodies of those who had died in the battle, his usually cocky demeanor softened by the somber task of burying the dead. Zipper helped where she could, her small frame working tirelessly to assist the survivors as they prepared to leave the place they had once called home.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the decimated village, the survivors gathered what little they could carry. Broken weapons, scattered supplies, and the weight of loss hung heavy in the air.
Captain Billy looked up at the darkening sky, his expression tense. "We need to go. Now. Before we lose the light."
Mary nodded, her hand resting on her sword as she joined Bass near the front of the group. The others, weary and battered, fell in line behind them, ready to make the trek back to the safety of the fort.
As they left Red Prairie behind, the village grew smaller and smaller in the distance, a ruined reminder of what had been lost. The road to the fort was long and difficult, and as the night closed in around them, the group could feel the weight of the Frontier pressing in on all sides.
The journey was quiet, the only sounds the crunch of boots on the dirt road and the distant howls of creatures in the night. By the time they reached the fort’s gates, darkness had fully settled, and the survivors of Red Prairie breathed a collective sigh of relief as they entered the safety of the walls.
As the survivors gathered in the keep’s war room, the mood was heavy, filled with exhaustion and a mix of grim determination. The flickering light of a lantern cast long shadows on the stone walls, while Captain Billy stood at the center of the room, staring down at the worn map sprawled across the table. His eyes lingered on the marked path that led away from the fort, tracing the roads that had once connected them to the world outside. Now, those paths seemed more like lifelines dangling in a sea of chaos.
“I’ve lost about a third of my men, and half the mecha horses,” Captain Billy said, his voice flat, betraying the burden of command. “Half the men of the village died in the fighting, and now the rest, along with the women and children, are packed into the barracks. This keep wasn't built for refugees, especially not with the supplies we’ve lost. We’ll hold out for a time, but without fresh resources, it’s only a matter of days before we’re done for.”
The others stood around him, taking in the grim reality. Bass, leaning against the cold stone wall, rubbed his chin thoughtfully. He had his coat back on, and the weight of Peacemaker at his hip felt heavier than ever. “So, what’s the plan, Captain?” Bass asked, his voice quiet but firm. “We can’t stay here and just wait for starvation or worse.”
Captain Billy let out a deep sigh and nodded. “We need a bold plan of action. Moving the survivors to safety, and quickly. Tomney's Gulch might be the only place that can take in so many at once. But even that’s a long shot. We’ve barely got the manpower to guard a proper evacuation.”
“They’ll have to scatter,” Rin suggested, standing beside Mary. He wasn’t meeting anyone’s gaze, his eyes focused on a dusty corner of the map. “A diaspora of sorts. The people can find shelter where they can, but we can’t protect them all at once.”
Mary shook her head, her arms crossed. “Splitting up like that is dangerous. It’s no different from abandoning them. And we don’t have the supplies to send them off in all directions, let alone guide them.”
“That’s why we need a safer destination,” Bass added, stepping forward to join them at the table. “The Adlehyde Musketeers were passing by on their way here. Where could they have come from?”
Captain Billy glanced up, intrigued. “Musketeers? From Adlehyde?”
Bass nodded. “We saw them before. They were heading the opposite direction, but their presence means there’s a Musketeer fort nearby, right?”
Captain Billy frowned, rubbing his chin. He pulled a corner of the map toward him and traced a line with his finger. “There is a Musketeer fort. As the crow flies, it’s not far from here… but between us and them lies the Frontier Deadlands.” He tapped the marked area on the map. “That’s the problem. The Deadlands are unforgiving, filled with roaming beasts and worse. We’d have to circumvent that by taking the long road through the safer routes, which is six times longer.”
Bass walked over to the keep’s window and stared out into the moonlit landscape. As the moon rose high enough into the sky, its pale light revealed a distant shadow in the far distance—a fort, barely visible, but it was there. “I can see it from here,” Bass muttered, squinting into the distance. “It’s close enough to give it a shot. We can make it if we go straight through.”
Mary joined him by the window, her gaze hardening. “It’s worth a try. We don’t have many options left.”
Captain Billy shook his head, but there was a glint of resolve in his eyes. “This garrison doesn’t belong to any nation anymore. It’s autonomous, ever since the war ended. We were stationed here, left to protect this pocket of Red Prairie from the Frontier beasts. But we’re cut off, like we always have been, and without the supplies from the village, we’re running on empty.”
Rin, having memorized much of the fort's layout from earlier, stepped back to the map. “That makes this fort less of an asset and more of a liability now. Abandoning it is the best option. We should head to Tomney’s Gulch while there’s still time.”
A tense silence followed as they all considered the path forward. Bass finally broke it, his voice steady. “We can split the group. The villagers and the rest of the Frontier Guard can take the slow route, around the Deadlands, heading to Tomney’s Gulch and eventually the Musketeer fort. Meanwhile, Captain Billy and the Dream Chasers will mount up on the few remaining mecha horses and ride straight through the Deadlands. We can get there faster, secure their help, and meet you all at Tomney’s Gulch with reinforcements.”
Captain Billy narrowed his eyes, weighing the plan in his mind. “It’s a risk, but you’re right. It’s our best chance.” He slammed his fist down on the table, the sound echoing through the room. “Alright. We’ll move out at first light. Gather everything useful from the fort and the ruins of the village. We can’t leave anything behind that we might need.”
Mary glanced over at Bass, her eyes filled with determination. “We’re going to need all the help we can get.”
Bass nodded, a sense of purpose finally solidifying in his chest. “Then we ride for the Musketeers. We won’t let this place fall, not like this.”
And with that, the final preparations for their dangerous journey began.
Morning came.
As the survivors of Red Prairie Village prepared to set out for Tomney’s Gulch, Wolf stood at the head of the remaining villagers, his massive ARM, Poldark, resting casually over his shoulder. The air was heavy with the scent of smoke and ruin, but his expression was resolute. He glanced at Bass, Mary, and Captain Billy, who were gearing up to ride into the Frontier Deadlands, and then turned to the refugees gathering supplies.
“I’ll take care of them,” Wolf said, his voice low but steady. His usual brash demeanor softened, replaced by an unexpected sincerity.
He looked out over the faces of the frightened villagers, a mix of men, women, and children—some injured, all exhausted. His eyes narrowed in determination. “No one’s layin’ a hand on them while I’m around. I swear it.”
Bass gave him a nod of respect. Mary paused, her gaze lingering on Wolf’s face, reading the truth in his words. For once, he wasn’t posturing or showing off—he was dead serious. She returned the nod.
“Take care of yourself too, Wolf,” she said before turning to mount her horse.
Wolf grunted in response, shifting the weight of Poldark on his shoulder. “Don’t worry about me. Just make sure you take down whatever it is that's comin' after us.”
With a final glance at the Dream Chasers, Wolf turned his full attention to the refugees, his posture strong and protective as they began their slow march toward Tomney’s Gulch.
Captain Billy, Bass, Mary, Zipper, and Rin sat atop their mecha horses, watching in silence as the larger group of survivors headed north, toward the safety of Tomney’s Gulch. The riders of the small party exchanged grim looks before turning their attention south. The landscape ahead was the infamous Deadlands—an expanse of desolation that stretched out endlessly before them. The ground, jagged and blackened, looked like a field of volcanic rock, cracked and splintered as though the earth itself had been violently torn apart.
The horizon shimmered with heatwaves, despite the cold bite of the night air. The mecha horses’ metal joints groaned quietly as they shifted in place, their glowing eyes scanning the hostile terrain as if sensing the dangers that lay ahead.
“Deadlands, huh?” Bass muttered, adjusting his coat as a gust of wind kicked up dust around them. “Looks like something straight out of a nightmare.”
Zipper, sitting higher in her saddle than the others, stared out at the desolate wasteland with wide eyes. “It’s worse than I imagined,” she whispered, her voice tinged with unease. “Nothing lives here… not for long, anyway.”
Rin remained silent, his eyes narrowed as he studied the terrain. He had seen hostile environments before, but this was something else entirely. There were no landmarks to guide them, no signs of life—just an unbroken sea of shattered stone and jagged cliffs. He could feel the weight of the journey ahead pressing down on them, and he knew it would take more than clever magic to get them through this.
Mary adjusted the strap on her sword, her face hard and focused. “We’ll have to keep moving fast. No telling what’s out there, waiting for us.”
Captain Billy was the last to speak, his voice low and full of resolve. “We’ve got two days, maybe less, to reach the Musketeers’ fort. After that, the Deadlands will have claimed us. Keep your eyes open, and stay close.”
The group shared a final glance before urging their mecha horses forward, the beasts’ heavy hooves clanking as they moved out into the Deadlands. The jagged rocks seemed to close in around them, the eerie silence only broken by the hiss of the wind and the occasional metallic click of the horses’ legs.
For the next few hours, they would travel through the most unforgiving terrain any of them had ever seen, each step taking them deeper into the unknown, and closer to their uncertain fate.
The group stood on the edge of the Deadlands, staring into a bleak, alien expanse stretching endlessly before them. Captain Billy, Bass, Mary, Rin, and Zipper sat astride their mecha-horses, their expressions grim as they sized up the next leg of their journey. The wind howled across the barren plains, kicking up clouds of dust that swirled like spirits escaping the underworld. This was no ordinary ride. This was the journey through the worst of the frontier—a twenty-mile trek of pure hell.
The ground beneath them was cracked and splintered, like the skin of a dying world. Sharp, jagged formations jutted from the earth, slicing the sky with razor-like precision. These stone towers formed a labyrinth that twisted and turned without end, making navigation nearly impossible. A wrong turn could easily lead them to a dead end—or worse, into a trap from which they’d never escape. The horses’ metal feet clanked against the jagged surface, sparks flying with every step.
"Twenty miles of this?" Bass muttered under his breath, his eyes scanning the hostile terrain ahead. “Feels like twenty thousand.”
“No turning back now,” Mary added, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword, always ready. “If we don’t cross, there’s no getting help. No re-supply. Just death on the Frontier.”
Captain Billy, ever stoic, motioned them forward. "Stay tight and keep a lookout. The Deadlands don't just kill you with the landscape—there’s worse waiting for us out there."
Beyond the stone labyrinth lay vast, open plains, but they were no better. The ground, cracked and sun-scorched, stretched for miles, offering no shade, no water, and no shelter. Any moisture that had ever touched this land was long gone, leaving behind a parched desert. The air shimmered with heat, and it wouldn’t be long before the relentless sun took its toll.
The horizon rippled with heat waves, and Bass could feel the dryness in his throat already. Zipper, usually the chipper one, was unusually quiet, her sharp eyes darting left and right, scanning the area for signs of life—or worse, signs of death.
The spiny vegetation scattered around them was no friendlier than the terrain. Everything here seemed designed to hurt. Thorny plants jutted up from the ground like traps, their long, needle-like spines thirsty for blood. A misstep, a brush against one of these deadly plants, could mean a slow, agonizing end. Their mecha-horses were sturdy, but even they had to step carefully to avoid getting caught on the sharp thorns that lined the path.
Further on, they entered the ravines, narrow, twisted canyons carved into the earth. The walls loomed high above them, towering cliffs that boxed them in, suffocating them with their oppressive weight. The group moved cautiously, the sound of their horses’ hooves echoing off the stone. In this part of the Deadlands, it wasn’t just the terrain that posed a threat—it was the things that lurked in the shadows, hidden in the cracks and crevices. Predators that had adapted to the harshest conditions on Filgaia, waiting for their next meal.
“Stay sharp,” Captain Billy said, his voice low but commanding. “The Frontier isn’t just rock and sand. It’s teeth and claws too.”
Every so often, they would pass skeletal remains, a grim reminder of those who had come before them and never made it out. Some were animals, long dead and bleached white by the sun. Others were human. Zipper shuddered as they passed by a set of bones still tangled in the remnants of an old saddle. A rider who had once hoped to cross these same plains but had succumbed to the Deadlands.
The journey dragged on, each mile feeling longer than the last. As they pressed forward, the ground began to rumble beneath them. The volcanic rock fields shifted and groaned, the very earth beneath their feet a treacherous adversary. Massive cracks opened in the ground, threatening to swallow them whole. The horses danced nervously around these sudden fissures, their mechanical legs keeping them upright where living animals might have faltered.
The volcanic rock fields were desolate. The air reeked of sulfur, and the temperature had risen significantly. It felt like they were riding through a furnace, with the added threat of the ground crumbling away at any moment. The horizon, though bleak, seemed to shimmer with dark intent, as though even the sky conspired against them.
Rin, riding silently beside Bass, broke the silence. "We’ll need to move fast when the sun drops. No telling what’s out here at night, but whatever it is, it hunts." His eyes scanned the jagged rocks and the shifting shadows.
Mary gripped the reins tightly, her mecha-horse snorting in response. "We've got enough trouble with this terrain. I'd prefer if the wildlife stayed out of it."
They crossed through the worst of it with the sun hanging low in the sky, casting long shadows that made everything feel even more menacing. The twisted plants and jagged rocks cast eerie shapes across the ground, and every gust of wind seemed like it was carrying whispers from the dead.
As nightfall loomed, the group reached a small plateau, and they could see their destination in the far-off distance. It was still miles away, but it was the first sign of hope in hours.
The Deadlands had taken its toll, but they weren’t done yet.
After what felt like an eternity of slow, grinding progress, the group came to a reluctant halt. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a deep amber glow across the Deadlands, but its light was fading quickly. They had barely covered twelve miles all day, the relentless terrain forcing them to move with caution and precision. Every step had been treacherous—navigating the jagged rocks, the thorny spines, and the shifting ground was like dancing with death.
Captain Billy surveyed the horizon, his face set in a grim line. "We’re not making it through tonight. We need to set up camp."
Bass wiped the sweat from his brow, glancing around at the desolation. The thought of stopping here, in the heart of this hostile wilderness, didn’t sit well with him. "Not much of a place for camping," he muttered.
Mary nodded in agreement. "We can’t keep going. Traveling at night will only get us killed. We need shelter."
Zipper, who had been unusually quiet for most of the journey, pointed toward a shallow overhang nestled between two jagged stone formations. "There," she said. "It’s not much, but it’ll keep us out of the wind at least."
Rin rode up beside them, his eyes scanning the sky as the light continued to fade. "We need to hurry. This place comes alive after dark." His voice was low and serious, a warning carried in his tone.
The group dismounted, their mecha-horses clanking as they settled into the rocky ground. They led the mechanical beasts toward the overhang, guiding them as carefully as possible to avoid any injuries. With the sun dipping below the horizon, the temperature dropped sharply, and the howling winds began to pick up, carrying a cold bite.
Captain Billy was the first to check the area, his experience guiding him to scout for dangers. He ran his hand along the stone wall, nodding in approval. "This’ll have to do. We’ll take turns on watch. Keep the fire low and quiet. No telling what’s out there."
Bass, Mary, and Zipper helped unload the supplies they had left, setting up a modest camp beneath the shelter. The overhang offered some protection from the elements, but not much. It was more a psychological comfort than anything else—a small defense against the vastness of the Deadlands.
As they gathered around the small fire, the mecha-horses stood in a semi-circle, their metal frames glinting in the faint light. Rin sat a little apart from the group, drawing in the dirt with a stick, lost in thought.
The eerie stillness of the Deadlands wrapped around them, broken only by the occasional gust of wind. The vast, alien landscape stretched out endlessly beyond their camp, and the oppressive silence made it feel like they were the last people left in the world.
Captain Billy nodded in agreement, his eyes scanning the horizon. “We’ll post watches through the night. Two-hour shifts. I don’t trust the Deadlands any more than you do, Zipper.”
The group settled in, the fire casting flickering shadows against the rocks. It seemed peaceful—too peaceful. The Deadlands, known for their dangers, hadn’t yet revealed their fangs, and that alone set everyone on edge.
As the night wore on, Zipper took the first watch, her eyes fixed on the darkness beyond the fire’s glow. Her unease hadn’t faded, and the strange silence only seemed to amplify her anxiety. She glanced up at the towering rocks overhead, their jagged shapes looming like silent sentinels.
Something wasn’t right.
Suddenly, she heard a low rumble beneath her feet. At first, she thought it might be a tremor—a shifting of the earth common in these parts. But the rumbling grew louder, more distinct, as though something enormous was stirring beneath the ground.
Her eyes widened, and she jumped to her feet just as the ground shook violently, knocking over one of their supply packs. “Wake up!” she shouted, her voice filled with alarm. “Something’s not right!”
The others scrambled to their feet, hands going for their weapons, eyes scanning the area. Before anyone could react, the ground beneath one of the rock formations shifted—no, it moved. The jagged spires they had mistaken for rock formations began to rise, revealing themselves as part of a massive, living creature. The ground trembled as the beast unfolded itself from the earth, its shell-like back covered in rocky protrusions, two of which had served as their deceptive shelter.
Bass stared in horror as the creature stood to its full height, towering above them—a massive Tarasque, its shell camouflaged perfectly against the wasteland. Its eyes gleamed in the faint moonlight, locking onto the group with a predatory hunger. The realization hit them all at once—the “shelter” they had chosen wasn’t shelter at all, but the very thing they needed to fear.
Mary drew her sword, stepping back as the Tarasque let out a deep, guttural growl, its massive feet crushing the earth beneath it. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” she muttered.
Captain Billy cursed under his breath, grabbing his rifle. “We need to move—now!”
Before anyone could react, the Tarasque charged, smashing its heavy body into the ground where they had camped. The group scattered just in time, debris flying as the beast's massive shell cracked the earth.
Zipper leaped onto her mecha horse, her heart racing. “That thing was right under us this whole time!” she gasped, urging her mount to move.
The Tarasque's roar echoed across the barren wasteland, a thunderous bellow that sent tremors through the ground beneath their feet. The mecha horses reared in fear, their metallic hooves scrambling for traction on the jagged earth, while the group frantically tried to gain some distance from the hulking beast. The rocky outcroppings they had mistaken for shelter had turned into a death trap, boxing them in with the Tarasque bearing down on them.
"We can't fight this thing up close!" Bass shouted, his voice barely audible over the creature’s guttural growls. His eyes darted to the uneven terrain beneath them—sharp rocks, crevices, and unstable ground. Dismounting would mean certain injury, but staying mounted meant they were too close to make use of their ranged weapons. "We need distance, but there’s no room!"
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Mary, her sword ready but useless at this range, kicked her mecha horse to circle around the beast. "Even if we get some distance, that thing's faster than it looks!" she called out. The Tarasque’s shell-covered back gleamed under the moonlight, its sheer size making it nearly impossible to escape unscathed.
Captain Billy, rifle raised, barked orders to the remaining soldiers. "Form up! We need to at least keep this thing away from the horses!" His voice was firm, but there was an edge of desperation in his tone. They were cornered, and he knew it.
Bass gritted his teeth, racking his brain for a solution. The creature’s massive form blocked any clear path to safety, and every time it shifted, the ground quaked beneath them. His thoughts turned toward Zipper—toward the Medium she still carried. He hated to even think it, but...
Zipper, still on her mecha horse, stared wide-eyed at the Tarasque, her hands shaking as she clutched the reigns. The Guardian she could summon—she had the power to call upon it, and it would save them, it would drive this monster back. But... what would happen to the Guardian? Would it survive the battle against such a monstrous creature?
Bass rode up beside her, his voice urgent. "Zipper, we need your help. You have to call the Guardian."
Zipper shook her head vehemently, her eyes wide with fear and guilt. "I can’t. I can’t put the Guardian in danger. It’s not like before... not after what happened with Zeldukes."
"This thing will kill us all if we don’t stop it!" Bass argued, frustration rising. "We don’t have any other choice!"
"I know!" Zipper cried, her voice cracking. "But it’s too dangerous. If the Guardian is destroyed—"
"Zipper," Mary interrupted, steering her horse closer as she swatted away some falling debris. "We don't have time for this! We need to do something!"
Zipper looked at her, torn, her hands trembling as she gripped the Medium tightly. She couldn't bear the thought of sacrificing another Guardian—of repeating the tragedy that had just unfolded with Phalanx and Zeldukes.
Before Bass or Mary could say more, Captain Billy rode up, his face grim and resolute. "She's right," he said, surprising them both. "You don’t rely on powers you can’t fully control. Especially not otherworldly forces."
Zipper blinked, confused. "But... what else can we do?"
Billy’s eyes flicked toward the Tarasque, the beast thrashing and tearing at the rocky terrain with every step. "We buy time," he said simply, gripping the reigns of his mecha horse tighter. "Sometimes, that's all you can do."
With that, Billy spurred his horse forward, charging straight at the Tarasque. Bass's eyes widened in disbelief. "Billy, no!"
Mary cursed under her breath. "That damn fool..."
The captain rode headlong into the beast, his rifle raised and firing. The bullets pinged uselessly off the creature's thick hide, but Billy didn’t stop. He charged directly into the path of the monstrous Tarasque, determined to keep it distracted, to give his comrades a chance to escape.
The Tarasque turned, its massive eyes locking onto the charging figure. For a moment, everything seemed to slow down. Billy's horse galloped at full speed, the sound of hooves pounding against the rocky earth deafening. The captain's face was set with grim determination, his weapon firing shot after shot, each one futile in the face of such an unstoppable force.
Then, in a heartbeat, it was over.
The Tarasque's massive tail whipped around with terrifying speed, smashing into both Billy and his horse. The force of the impact sent them both flying, their bodies crashing into the jagged rocks with a sickening thud.
Zipper's scream echoed through the night as she watched Captain Billy fall. "No!"
Bass’s heart dropped as the reality hit them all. Captain Billy lay motionless in the dirt, his body broken, the light already gone from his eyes. The Tarasque turned away from the fallen captain as though he had been nothing more than an afterthought.
Zipper’s hands shook violently as tears welled up in her eyes. "He... he didn't have to die..."
Bass gripped his Peacemaker tightly, his jaw clenched in rage. "Zipper, you have to make a choice. Captain Billy... he bought us time. Now it’s up to you."
Tears streamed down Zipper’s face as she held the Medium in her trembling hands. Captain Billy had sacrificed himself so they could survive—so she wouldn't have to make this choice. But now, with the monstrous Tarasque bearing down on them, she realized she couldn’t wait any longer.
She had to decide.
But in the depths of her fear and confusion, she also had to live with the knowledge of what that choice might cost.
As the battle raged on, the ground beneath them trembled with an ancient force. Zipper stood still, her heart pounding in her chest. She could feel the familiar hum of the Guardian Medium in her hands—an undeniable presence waiting for her call. She knew what had to be done, but the thought of putting a Guardian at risk made her hesitate.
Suddenly, the earth beneath them erupted, sending jagged stones and dust into the air. A massive form began to rise from the cracked ground, blue-green scales shimmering in the moonlight. Towering above the battlefield, with long crystal spikes jutting out of its back, stood the Earth Guardian himself, Gurdijeff.
His voice rumbled like an earthquake, low and deep, as he addressed Zipper directly. “I am Gurdijeff, the Earth Guardian. We heard you answer our call…”
Zipper’s eyes widened as the Guardian’s immense presence filled the space. His form radiated a protective power, and the ground beneath her feet felt more stable, more connected to something ancient and primal. The massive creature looked down at her with glowing eyes, waiting.
She swallowed hard, feeling the weight of her decision. "I didn't mean to—" she began, but the Guardian’s presence was firm and unwavering.
"The earth will always protect its own, little one. Call upon us when the need is true."
Gurdijeff stood ready, his massive body coiled with strength, waiting for the next command, his very presence a challenge to the encroaching chaos.
Gurdijeff’s massive head lowered slightly, his glowing eyes locking onto hers. “The earth endures,” he said. “It is my duty to protect.”
With a sudden, glowing pulse, Gurdijeff activated his "Defencer." A shimmering, metaphysical field spread out from the Guardian, enveloping Zipper, Bass, Mary, Rin, and Captain Billy. It was as if the very air around them had thickened, infused with the strength of the earth itself. The next time the Tarasque struck, its heavy blow slammed into the invisible barrier, but the force didn’t reach them.
Instead, Gurdijeff let out a low growl, absorbing the brunt of the attack. The Guardian stood firm, its crystalline form crackling with energy as it took on the full weight of the Tarasque’s brutal strikes, sparing the party from the creature's wrath.
Zipper’s eyes widened as she watched. “He’s… protecting us,” she whispered. “He’s taking all the damage.”
Captain Billy, leaning on his weapon for support, managed a grim smile. “Good thing too,” he muttered. “If we had to take that blow… we wouldn’t be standing.”
The Tarasque, enraged by its inability to reach its targets, bellowed and charged again. Each time it attacked, Gurdijeff absorbed the blows, standing tall and unyielding. The Guardian’s form shimmered with every hit, but he remained strong, his presence a shield between the group and certain death.
Zipper watched in awe, feeling a deep sense of gratitude and guilt. “I didn’t want to use you like this…” she murmured. “But thank you.”
Gurdijeff’s voice rumbled in response, his tone reassuring. “The earth always protects its own.”
For now, they were safe. But Zipper knew the fight wasn’t over. The Tarasque was relentless, and even with Gurdijeff’s protection, they had to find a way to end the battle—before the Guardian could no longer hold the line.
As the Tarasque let out another bellowing roar, Gurdijeff's shimmering shield held firm, absorbing the brunt of each monstrous strike. But then, with a mighty rumble, the Earth Guardian did something none of them expected.
Gurdijeff lunged forward, his massive crystalline claws grappling the Tarasque by its jagged back. The ground beneath their titanic forms splintered as the two colossal beings wrestled, their strength shaking the very earth. The Tarasque thrashed, trying to break free from Gurdijeff's grasp, but the Guardian held fast, his body glowing with ancient power.
"Go!" Gurdijeff roared, his voice echoing across the barren Deadlands. "Flee into the night! Fear not the thorns or dangers that lie ahead, for as long as I stand, no harm shall come to you!"
Zipper's heart skipped a beat. She could feel the strain in the Guardian’s voice, the weight of the battle pressing against his very essence. “But—”
"NOW!" Gurdijeff commanded, his eyes burning with resolve. "This fight is not yours. Run, and live to fight another day!"
Bass, already bruised and battered, glanced at the others, the hesitation in his eyes clear. “We can’t just leave him.”
Mary, her sword still drawn, looked torn. “He’s buying us time. We have to trust him.”
Captain Billy, grimacing from his earlier injury, gave a firm nod. "He's right. We can’t win this fight. We go now, or none of us make it out."
Rin, already sensing the Guardian’s intention, swung his leg back over his mecha horse and gave a sharp tug to the reins. “He’s holding the line. We need to honor his sacrifice.”
Zipper hesitated for just a moment longer, but the sight of Gurdijeff, grappling the Tarasque with all his might, pushed her into action. She climbed onto her horse, her heart heavy with the weight of leaving him behind.
The group mounted up, their mecha horses kicking up dust as they bolted into the treacherous night. The jagged rocks, thorns, and dangerous terrain they had feared earlier now seemed insignificant compared to the monstrosity they were leaving behind. Gurdijeff's power pulsed through the ground beneath their feet, guiding their way with an unseen force, clearing a path through the deadly landscape.
Behind them, the titanic battle raged on. The Tarasque’s bellows echoed across the Deadlands, but Gurdijeff stood firm, refusing to let go. His crystalline form shimmered in the pale moonlight, a towering shield between them and certain death.
As they rode, Zipper cast one final glance back, tears stinging her eyes. Gurdijeff's mighty form was still visible, locked in an eternal struggle with the Tarasque. His voice, though distant, reached her one last time.
“Live. And remember.”
With that, the Earth Guardian roared again, locking the Tarasque in place as the Dream Chasers and Captain Billy fled into the night, their path guided by the strength of the earth beneath them.
Their escape was hard-earned, but Zipper knew the cost. Gurdijeff’s sacrifice had given them a chance—a chance to fight another day.
The ride down through the treacherous lowlands had been nothing short of hellish. With each passing minute, the terrain grew more hostile, jagged rocks slicing at their mecha horses’ legs while thorny bushes clawed at their skin. Yet, thanks to Gurdijeff’s protective power, the group managed to push through, their bodies invulnerable to the vicious landscape. But even with the Guardian’s magic shielding them, the storm and stress of the journey took its toll. The horses stumbled and tumbled across the volcanic stones, barely able to keep pace.
Suddenly, the ground beneath them gave way, and they found themselves hurtling down a steep cliffside. Volcanic stones slipped beneath their feet, thorny brush scratching at their exposed skin, but still, they suffered no injuries. Protected by Gurdijeff's shielding magic, the group crashed down the slope like falling boulders, sliding and rolling until, at last, they reached the bottom.
Bass groaned, pulling himself up, his mecha horse panting heavily beside him. The others followed suit, shaking off the dust and debris as they looked around. The land had finally smoothed out, stretching before them in a flat, open expanse. They were almost safe. Almost.
But something gnawed at the back of Bass’s mind. He scanned the wide-open space, his instincts screaming at him that something wasn’t right. If this place was really full of predators, this open area had to be a hunting ground. His eyes narrowed, and just as the thought crossed his mind, a shadow passed over the moon.
“There’s something above us,” Bass muttered.
Captain Billy, still nursing a wound but ever alert, cursed under his breath. “Nightgaunt!” he shouted, his voice full of urgency. "Everybody down!"
The group ducked instinctively, but they were too late. With a bone-chilling screech, a dark shape descended from the sky, its leathery wings cutting through the night air. Before anyone could react, Zipper was snatched from her saddle, her wail echoing through the night as the Nightgaunt lifted her high into the air.
“No!” Mary shouted, her heart racing. She yanked at her reins, her mecha horse whinnying in fear. “What do we do?”
Captain Billy’s expression darkened, but he kept his composure. “Nightgaunts are greedy bastards. Stay still. It’ll come back.”
Bass exchanged a quick glance with Mary, his hands tightening on his reins. The tension in the air was suffocating as they waited, hearts pounding, muscles tensed. And then, as predicted, the Nightgaunt swooped down again, its shadow casting a long, dark figure across the ground.
Mary’s eyes sharpened with determination. In one fluid motion, she stood up on the back of her mecha horse, balancing with incredible precision. As the Nightgaunt’s claws reached out to grab her, she leaped forward, wrapping her arms around its neck as it lifted her off the ground.
But it wasn’t the same creature that had taken Zipper.
The realization hit her, but there was no time to hesitate. The Nightgaunt’s screeches filled her ears, its powerful wings flapping as it tried to shake her off. Mary, gritting her teeth, drew her sword mid-air and slashed at the creature’s wings. The blade bit deep into the leathery flesh, and the Nightgaunt howled in pain, flapping wildly as it struggled to maintain altitude.
Below, Bass and Captain Billy watched in awe as Mary fought the creature mid-flight, her body twisting and turning as she held on for dear life.
With a final, vicious slash, Mary severed one of the Nightgaunt’s wings completely. The creature screeched in agony as it plummeted toward the earth, taking Mary with it.
Bass spurred his horse forward, racing to intercept her fall. As Mary and the creature crashed to the ground in a flurry of dust and broken wings,
As Bass rushed forward on horseback, his attention fixed on Mary’s fall, a sudden, panicked howl reached his ears—Zipper's voice, coming from above. He turned just in time to catch sight of a Nightgaunt swooping down, its elongated neck craning towards him, its twisted, ugly face leering at him.
Before he could react, the creature’s other claw snatched him from the saddle, lifting him high into the air. As the wind whipped past him, he glanced over to see Zipper, hanging awkwardly in the other talon of the same beast.
“How you doing over there?” Bass called, managing a smirk despite their situation.
Zipper, swinging slightly, shouted back, “I feel bad saying this, but it's kinda fun up here! I mean, invincibility helps!” Her voice was tinged with excitement, the absurdity of their situation clearly getting to her.
Bass rolled his eyes at her dorky observation. “Cover your ears!” he yelled, his hand tightening on the grip of his ARM.
With the creature holding them high above the ground, Bass leveled his weapon right at the beast’s ribcage, point-blank. He didn’t hesitate, pulling the trigger. A blast of fire and steel erupted from his ARM, the shot tearing through the Nightgaunt’s chest, blowing a hole clean through it.
The Nightgaunt let out a screech of agony, its wings faltering. In a wild descent, the creature crashed to the ground, and Bass and Zipper tumbled with it, rolling through the dirt and debris. They were battered and bruised but unharmed, thanks to the Guardian’s lingering protection.
Dusting herself off, Zipper grinned sheepishly as she stood up. “Well, that was... something.”
Bass groaned, getting to his feet. “Next time, maybe don’t enjoy the ride so much, huh?”
With that, they glanced back at the rest of their group, ready to regroup and continue the flight.
As the group began their careful ascent along the narrow, winding path, a gentle tremor reverberated through the ground beneath them. The rising sun bathed the rocky cliffs in its warm, golden light, but it wasn’t the heat of the sun that made them pause—it was the voice. It was deep and resonant, vibrating through the very stones beneath their feet.
"My power fades with the coming dawn." The voice of the Guardian, Grudijeff, echoed in their minds, its presence a familiar comfort amidst the harsh wilderness. "The bond that shielded you from harm is no more. You must now rely on your strength and cunning, for Filgaia's dangers still surround you."
Bass felt a strange weight lift from his shoulders as the invulnerability that had carried them through the worst of the night slipped away. He glanced at the others, catching the flicker of concern in Mary’s eyes, the sudden tension in Captain Billy’s posture. They had known this moment would come, but it didn’t make it any less unsettling.
Zipper, who had been so lively moments before, bit her lip and clutched her cloak around her, as if the loss of the Guardian’s protection had made the cold, thin air feel all the more biting. "Guess we’re back to the old way of doing things," she said, trying to keep her voice light, though her nervous glance toward the cliffs betrayed her unease.
Mary rested a hand on the hilt of her sword, her eyes scanning the path ahead. “We’ll make it. We’ve been through worse. Just stay sharp,” she said, offering a nod to Bass and Zipper.
Captain Billy took a deep breath, his jaw tight but resolute. "From here on, we’re back on our own. Keep your eyes open. There’s no telling what we’ll run into between here and the fortress."
With a final, lingering hum, the Guardian’s presence faded completely, leaving them standing on the edge of the cliffs, with nothing but their own skills and determination to guide them.
The group continued their slow, steady climb, wary now of every loose stone and jagged rock. The fortress walls above seemed so close, yet the final stretch of the journey felt longer without the Guardian's protective power. They were once again vulnerable, exposed to the dangers of the wilderness.
But they pressed on, knowing that the safety of the Adlehyde Musketeer Garrison was within reach—and that there was no turning back now.
The party rode through the dust and heat, the craggy cliffside finally giving way to a flat stretch of road that led to the imposing stone walls of the Adlehyde Musketeer Garrison. The massive brown walls rose up before them, casting long shadows as the late afternoon sun dipped low in the sky.
At the center of the wall was an enormous iron gate, guarded by two sentries in Adlehyde uniforms, their muskets resting lazily on their shoulders. As Bass, Mary, Zipper, Rin, and Captain Billy approached, Bass dismounted and stepped forward, raising a hand to knock against the heavy gate.
The knock echoed through the still air, and for a long moment, there was only silence. Then, with a low groan, a small hatch in the gate slid open. A guard’s weathered face appeared in the gap, his eyes scanning the group with suspicion.
“State your business,” the guard demanded, his voice gruff and authoritative.
Bass cleared his throat, stepping forward. “We’re Dream Chasers, from Red Prairie. The village is gone. We need supplies, shelter, and a chance to speak with your commander.”
The guard narrowed his eyes, looking over each of them in turn before shutting the hatch with a loud clank. Moments passed, then the heavy iron gates groaned as they slowly opened. Inside, more guards stood at the ready, their weapons in hand. They were led into a narrow antechamber just within the walls, a cool respite from the sun-drenched road behind them.
“State your business formally inside,” said one of the guards. "And be prepared to prove your identity."
Once inside the antechamber, the heavy gates swung shut behind them, sealing with a thud that made the enclosed space feel suffocating. A table was set up in the middle, and a captain of the Musketeers sat behind it, reviewing papers. His gaze flicked upward as they approached.
"We're Dream Chasers," Bass repeated, his voice steady. "We've come from Red Prairie. There was... an incident. We seek shelter and aid."
The Musketeer captain raised an eyebrow but motioned for Bass, Mary, Zipper, and Rin to step forward. "The law allows safe passage for Dream Chasers," he said slowly, eyeing each of them carefully. “But you..." His gaze landed on Captain Billy. "By Adlehyde code, foreign military may only pass through the front gate with a signed letter of invitation from an Adlehyde official. I’m afraid you’ll have to stay behind."
Billy’s face fell. He hadn’t considered the legalities of his presence. “I can’t stay out here,” he said, his voice firm but laced with a hint of desperation. "I’ve got nowhere to go.”
"I understand," the captain said, his tone neutral, "but the law is clear. Dream Chasers may enter, but a foreign soldier—especially from a place we no longer have active military ties with—cannot cross the threshold without proper documentation."
Mary looked to Bass, concern in her eyes. Bass clenched his fists, feeling the weight of the situation. They had come so far together, survived so much, and now they were being separated by a piece of bureaucracy.
Zipper, ever the optimist, stepped forward, placing a hand on Billy’s arm. “We’ll find a way, Billy. There’s always a way.”
Billy gave a weak smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “It’s been an honor,” he said, his voice thick. "You lot take care of yourselves. And if you ever find yourselves back out there..." He trailed off, unsure how to finish the sentence.
There was a pause, the weight of the moment settling over them all like a heavy blanket.
Rin, usually quiet and observant, stepped forward, offering Billy a small nod of respect. “You’ve done more than most would, Captain.”
With that, the guards moved in to escort Billy back outside. Zipper turned, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. “Goodbye, Billy. Don’t go doing anything foolish out there.”
"I'll survive," Billy said with a forced grin. "Always have."
The heavy doors swung open once more, and as Billy was led outside, he glanced back at the group one last time, offering a small salute. The doors closed behind him with a final, echoing thud, leaving Bass, Mary, Zipper, and Rin standing in the cool stillness of the antechamber, a sense of loss settling in their hearts.
"Well," Bass said after a long silence, "we better make sure we make all this worth it."
As the four Dream Chasers left the garrison behind, the weight of their journey bore heavily on their shoulders. The road ahead stretched out toward Southport, a long, arduous path that would take them to the coast. There, Mary would find the ship bound for the Southern Continent, where Zipper’s destiny lay waiting.
The landscape around them shifted as they rode on, the jagged cliffs and harsh rock formations of the frontier fading into rolling plains. In the distance, the shimmering blue of the sea beckoned, a reminder that their journey was nearing its next chapter. For Mary, the thought of crossing the ocean brought a strange sense of finality—this would be the last leg of their adventure together, at least for now.
Zipper, perched atop her mecha horse, gazed out at the horizon, her face a mixture of excitement and apprehension. The young girl had never seen the sea before, and the thought of traveling across it to an entirely new continent both thrilled and terrified her. She glanced over at Mary, who rode silently beside her, and felt a pang of uncertainty. What lay ahead for her, in a land she’d never known?
“You okay, Zip?” Bass asked from the front, noticing her silence.
Zipper nodded, though the gesture was half-hearted. “Yeah… I’m just thinking. We’ve been through so much, and now… now it’s all changing.”
Mary, her eyes fixed on the distant waves, offered a rare, soft smile. “Change is part of the journey. You’re tougher than you know, kid. You’ll do fine out there.”
The words hung in the air, a reassurance that Zipper desperately needed, though she wasn’t sure she believed it herself. The Southern Continent was a world apart from everything she had known—new dangers, new challenges, and perhaps new friends. But as much as the thought of venturing into the unknown frightened her, she knew that this was her path. She had to see it through.
Rin, ever the quiet observer, rode a little behind them, his mind turning over the events of the past few days. The fight with Phalanx, the loss of the village, and now the separation of their group—it all weighed heavily on him. But despite everything, he couldn’t shake the feeling that something larger was at play. The Kuiper Dimension, Phalanx’s ambitions—it wasn’t over. Not by a long shot.
Character Biographies:
A Dream Chaser with a mysterious past, Bass is a lone wanderer who often finds himself caught between chasing fleeting dreams and surviving in the harsh, lawless world of Filgaia. Raised by the Baskar tribe, he carries with him knowledge of the ancient Guardians but dismisses most of the myths as stories from his youth. Armed with Peacemaker, an ARM he’s only recently learned to truly wield, Bass is a reluctant hero. Quiet, thoughtful, and often introspective, Bass struggles to find purpose in a world full of dangers and shifting allegiances. After losing many comrades and being forced to make difficult choices in the Red Prairie siege, Bass realizes he can’t remain neutral. He becomes torn between protecting his allies and fighting the escalating threats of the world’s dangerous forces. Though his journey began with a simple delivery job, it’s now clear Bass is destined for something far greater than even he can imagine.
Rin is an enigmatic sorcerer with a flair for theatrics and an obsession with style, often more concerned about the state of his wardrobe than the wounds he's suffered in battle. A master of Crest Sorcery, Rin has an impressive repertoire of spells and a deep knowledge of the ancient arts, which he wields with effortless confidence. Despite his aloof and quirky demeanor, Rin is incredibly intelligent and often sees angles in conflicts that others miss. During the battle against Phalanx and the corruption of the Guardian Zeldukes, Rin proved himself a crucial ally, wielding dual Saber Crest Graphs to slash through the First Root’s defenses. His ability to adapt to escalating magical threats shows his true potential. Rin’s motivations remain unclear, but the Kuiper Dimension's arrival has forced him to act more decisively, knowing that his earlier dismissive attitude almost led to disaster.
Mary, also known as "Stagecoach Mary," is a renowned Post Officer, famous for her unwavering dedication to delivering the mail no matter the obstacle. Raised among the legendary Fenril Lords on the northern continent, she absorbed their techniques while working as a housekeeper alongside her mother. Though she didn’t officially train, she mastered a unique Fast Draw fighting style, blending precision and speed. Stoic and calm, she has a no-nonsense attitude, but beneath it lies fierce loyalty. After the destruction of Red Prairie, Mary steps up as a leader, helping to rally both the village survivors and the Frontier Guard as they flee the aftermath. Now on a mission to deliver Zipper to the President, Mary’s resolve is put to the test as she faces down new enemies and prepares for a dangerous journey through the Deadlands, knowing her fate may be tied to more than just one delivery.
Zzz'riphra Zzph'ryl, affectionately known as "Zipper," is an enigmatic Elw girl on a crucial mission to meet President Henry. Despite her mysterious background and the weight of her responsibilities, Zipper's cheerful and quirky nature brings a lighthearted energy to the group. Her small stature, along with the oddity of her being "mailed" across the land, belies her deeper connection to the Guardians—legendary beings tied to the fate of Filgaia. During the Red Prairie battle, Zipper faces a difficult choice when she refuses to summon another Guardian, understanding the cost of using their powers. Her cheerful demeanor hides a growing burden as she grapples with the consequences of Guardian corruption. Despite her reluctance to wield these forces, Zipper's role becomes more vital, and her ties to the Guardians may prove critical as the group moves toward their next challenge.
Phalanx is a mysterious and self-proclaimed "Great Destroyer," emerging from the Kuiper Cult’s attempts to contact an alien dimension. Wrapped in bandages and cloaked in a tattered robe, she harbors delusions of grandeur, believing she is destined to bring about Filgaia's end. Despite her over-the-top theatrics, Phalanx possesses real power, making her a formidable yet unpredictable threat. In the Red Prairie battle, Phalanx’s corruption of Zeldukes proved catastrophic, forcing the group into a deadly fight to sever her ties to the Guardian’s power. Her First Root mutation, fueled by the Kuiper Dimension’s energy, shows her increasing capability to manipulate powerful forces. Now, aware of her own limits, Phalanx seeks revenge and greater control, hinting that her reign of chaos is far from over.
Nise is a cunning and resourceful woman with a talent for navigating dangerous situations. Alongside her partner, Oka, she plays a role in exploiting opportunities in the chaotic world of Filgaia. Though seemingly just a strategist and opportunist, Nise possesses genuine precognitive abilities, giving her fleeting glimpses of possible futures. Her skills in divination allow her to foresee dangers and outcomes, but her powers are often unreliable and subject to interpretation. While she often aligns herself with those who offer her the best advantage, her deeper motivations remain unclear. Nise's foresight, however, is more than just a trick—it's a power she’s still learning to fully control, and it might make her more dangerous than even she realizes.
Guardian Data
Name: Grudijeff
Element: Earth
Form: A massive, bluish-green dinosaur-like kaiju with long crystal spikes protruding from its back.
Origin: Guardian of the Earth, based on the Azure Dragon from Chinese mythology.
Power:
- Defencer: Protects allies by absorbing their damage and transferring it to itself. Creates a metaphysical shield that transfers harm to its own body, allowing its allies to fight without injury for a limited time.
Known Attacks: - Planet Breaker: A powerful ground-based attack where Grudijeff rises from the earth, shattering the ground and sending a shockwave through the battlefield.
- Crystal Spikes: Can manipulate the crystal protrusions on its back to shoot projectiles or cause massive tremors.
Lore: Grudijeff is the Guardian of Stability, representing the foundation of life on Filgaia. Known for its wisdom and stoic demeanor, it is often invoked in times of great crisis when the land itself is under threat. However, its protective powers are not without cost, as Grudijeff takes on the burden of damage for those it shields. It is drawn to those with a deep connection to the earth and is especially responsive to calls for protection.
Name: Fengalon
Element: Wind
Form: A large, wolf-like beast with winds swirling constantly around its form.
Origin: Guardian of the Wind, based on the Chinese mythological creature Meng Zhang.
Power:
- Gale Surge: Summons powerful winds to sweep across the battlefield, buffeting enemies and providing allies with increased speed and agility.
Known Attacks: - Wind Slicer: Summons blades of wind that can cut through enemies with ease.
- Tempest Howl: A devastating roar that creates a tornado, engulfing and tossing enemies aside.
Lore: Fengalon is a symbol of freedom and change, embodying the ever-moving currents of the world. Known for its fierce independence, it only answers the call of those with the courage to embrace change and adapt. Fengalon’s power is best suited to Dream Chasers who thrive on momentum and speed, making it ideal for hit-and-run tactics and guerilla warfare.
Name: Zeldukes
Element: Castle (Earth/Defense)
Form: A massive, lion-like Guardian with a body made of ancient, shifting stone, blending between a lion and reptilian form. His mane crackles with electricity, symbolizing his immense defensive power.
Origin: Guardian of Castles, representing strength, fortification, and protection.
Power:
- Fortress: Creates an impenetrable shield around allies, granting extreme defense and temporary invulnerability to attacks.
Known Attacks: - Castle Wall: Erects massive stone barriers around the battlefield, either to protect allies or trap enemies within.
- Thunderclap Roar: Unleashes a deafening roar that reverberates through stone and earth, stunning enemies and causing shockwaves.
Lore: Zeldukes is the embodiment of steadfast protection, often called upon in times of great defense, when standing one's ground is the only option. Once the guardian of many great strongholds in ancient times, Zeldukes' power is tied deeply to the land he protects. Though capable of immense defense, Zeldukes' strength is primarily stationary, designed to protect and fortify rather than attack.
Corruption: Recently, Zeldukes fell under the sway of Phalanx, his essence corrupted by the Kuiper Dimension, turning his once protective energy into a weapon of destruction. As a result, parts of his form became tainted with sickly green energy, and he was forced into submission. His corruption signifies the vulnerability of even the strongest Guardians when manipulated by dark forces.
Final Fate: As Phalanx consumed his power through the First Root, Zeldukes was eventually overwhelmed and vanished, his once mighty essence drained by the alien corruption. He remains one of the Guardians whose power and corruption will haunt the heroes as they face new threats tied to the alien dimension.
Personality: Zeldukes was known for his patience and loyalty, only summoning his full might in times of absolute necessity. His bond with those he protects is deep, and his sorrowful final roar echoed the sadness of a protector who could no longer defend the land he cherished.