Hiiiiii !!! I've been reading all your fic since yesterday and then I found the characters headcannons and THEN I stumbled across Zane (Mi criatura de autismo) and read this:
Here's the thing, I'm african, specifically from the Democratic Republic of Congo. And this hurts me deeply because those a re harmful steriotypes, so I'm gonna help u to create better African/Black characters:
1°Africaâ Country
Africa is a CONTINENT not a COUNTRY
The African continent Is divided in into 54 recognized countries according to the United Nations. However, the African Union recognizes 55 member states, which includes Western Sahara as an official member.
2° We have a main language:
Here's the thing, I'm african, specifically from the Democratic Republic of Congo and the main language is French.
In each country they have their main language and their native language
French is an official language in 21 African countries. However, when including nations where French is not official but is widely spoken by a large part of the population, that number rises to 26 countries.
Every single country in Africa is home to over 2,000 distinct native languages.
Some of the natives I know are: Swahili, Tchiluba and Ngala, that are based in french
I advice you choose one contry for Zane and then role with it, maybe the Democratic Republic of Congo as a start or choose with a random selector. If u want a better guide for it I recommend you go to @creatingblackcharacters for they are more fluent in their explenations
And that's it, those are my recomendations for you to make better black characters
Keep making incredible fics~! Bye~!!!
Thank you for the feedback, but as a white person, I felt it disrespectful to choose a specific country when I don't really know much about those countries and even research might not make it seem less racist. I was under the impression, from previous interactions with others, that specifying the culture when I am not someone of said culture would be equally disrespectful. For my headcanons of Zane, I wanted to keep it vague enough that other people could choose where exactly he was from, his specific culture, and other parts of his appearance (And I was inspired by Echo from Arcane because I really loved the white dread look and though it would fit Zane).
If possible, would it be alright if you helped me look into the Democratic Republic of Congo - in the sense that you helped make sure I was not creating a caricature or finding false information.
Unfortunately the complete destruction of the Great Devourer did not make the snake problem go away, instead it led to an entirely new problem. The city had been wrecked. Blood, guts, snake chunks, and venom covered the city, which had pieces torn free or buildings completely torn apart. And the ninja were partly the cause for some of the damage. They had led the Devourer around, in order to trap her, forcing her to shove herself through streets she wouldnât fit through which led to the destruction of multiple stores, apartments, and other buildings.Â
So, due to their part in the destruction, the ninja had been working with the city's disaster department to find ways to fix the city.Â
Ed and Edna graciously offered their home up after learning of the destruction of the Bounty, happily accepting the group into their home. Luckily, they had a blow up mattress and a fold out couch so not everyone was sleeping on the floor after exhausting days at rebuilding and cleaning. They did rotate the sleeping arrangement to keep it fair, however.
Due to that arrangement, Ed and Edna would take Lloyd during the day, doting endlessly on the boy by taking him out to restaurants, to the movies, and to arcades. They even did their best to join in on the activities. This made it easier for [M/n] to focus on the cleanup process.
Today was the last day of cleanup, Ed and Edna taking Lloyd to his favorite comic book store as a treat while the ninja piled into the Sonic Raider. Wu and Nya had taken the day to find a more permanent place to stay, using a motorcycle Ed had helped Nya fix up.Â
The lampposts were the last thing that needed to be done, so Cole, [M/n], and Jay were holding the very last one in place as Zane blowtorched the piece into place. Kai was behind them, trying to summon even a singular spark to his hands - which heâd done every day, since theyâd lost four of the five Golden Weapons a month ago - with sounds of frustration.Â
Zane stepped back, nodding to signal they no longer needed to hold it up. The three backed off, admiring the street full of lammposts theyâd put up in the last 3 days.Â
âFinally. All fixed up and Serpentine free," Cole said, running his fingers through his sweat-soaked hair.Â
âThis is so frustrating! ä»ćŠç!â Kai snapped, shaking his hands out.Â
The lamp post creaked, keeping anyone from answering as they hurried to catch it. Zane hurried to retorch it back into place, ignoring Kaiâs complaint for the moment.Â
âOur weapons are gone and most of our elemental powers are gone. I mean, we can still do Spinjitzu, but..." Kai grunted as his powers continued to falter. "I just feel so, I don't know, limited. And thanks to the Devourer, our tank's out of commission, our Dragon's hurt, the Bounty is destroyed, and we're bumming off Jay's parents."
âOur Elements are not only from the Weapons. We simply needed them to access them without practice, and now we have created a codependency. Had we taken the time to practice, maybe we would still have access to them without the Weapons.â Kai only scowled, rolling his eyes. He had ignored all of [M/n]âs advice due to the simple fact that he still had the Golden Tessens.Â
âNo one ever said being a hero is easy,â Zane added, pausing in his welding. âThough our good deeds may never make us rich, they make us rich in other ways."
âYeah? Well, I donât feel rich.â
âI for one enjoy pitching in. I've always wanted to feel part of a community, but the junkyard was too far from anybody. But, speaking of which, anyone seen or heard from Nya? I thought she mentioned she was going to help,â Jay said, tugging at the post to see if it was stable.Â
Nya pulled up on her fixed up motorbike, âAnd I have. I may have found us a place to live."Â
âWait, really? But-but there's a waiting list a mile long to live in Ninjago City. How did you do that?â Jay asked, perking up.Â
âI know a guy, who knows a girl, and she knows this girl who knows a guy. Well, this guy knows a girl who's a real estate agent and she can help you find a place, if you catch my drift," Nya stated, hiding a grin when she saw the looks of quiet confusion on [M/n] and Coleâs faces, holding up a pamphlet. As Ninjaoan was not either of their first languages, a sentence like that completely threw them off â something she was well aware off.Â
Jay nodded, glancing towards Wu, who was content to be silent, only to notice the two packed bags cabled to the sidecar. âAnd where are you guys going?â
âWell, I noticed yesterday that the Sonic Raiders got some pieces missing or loose, so Iâve gotta find a few more components in order to fix it up so it doesnât crap out on us,â Nya explained, handing over the pamphlet.
âAnd my dragon ointment has finally arrived. It's a two week trip, but once we get back, he'll be flying again. Also, I love scenic drives. Haha, punch it, Nya!" Wu shouted, leaving the ninja no time to react.Â
âAy ay, Sensei."
"Yee-haw!"
ââPatty Keys, Real Estate Queen.â Huh, this is exactly what we need. Once we get a roof over our head, we can start properly training Lloyd," Jay said, reading over the pamphlet.
âGood, 'cause if we know Lord Garmadon, he's not going to be taking any breaks. And let's not forget, the Serpentine are still at large," Cole reminded them.Â
âSo, shall we set up an appointment?â Zane asked. âTour the offered buildings?â
âWe should,â Kai said, finally taking his attention away from his hands.Â
âLloyd deserves the opportunity to see what could possibly be his new home,â [M/n] decided. âIâll meet you at this Patty Keys Estate place.â He took a look at the pamphlet to see the address, Ara carefully gliding down to land on the empty street without being called.Â
While he could have summoned the Nethercopter, he had missed Ara and Lloyd enjoyed flying with the wyvern.Â
Once in the air, his shoulders slumped - taking the moment to breathe in the fresh air without the constant chatter of the other ninja, and Wuâs hovering. Cramped in the camper, [M/n] had begun to feel like a caged bird, and the only thing that helped alleviate that feeling was flying with Ara and spending time with Lloyd. It was easier. Lloyd enjoyed reading his comics while [M/n] stargazed, sometimes rambling on about the comics he read.Â
Ara glided above the buildings, slowing as he approached Doomsday Comix, the street being too small for the much larger wyvern to land without taking time to do so. So, [M/n] swung himself out of the saddle as Ara completely tilted to the side, which put him closer to the ground. Using Spinjitzu, he slowed his descent before releasing the ability and landing on his feet, bending his knees to redistribute the impact.Â
The wyvern continued on, circling the buildings to come back and land. [M/n] straightened, adjusting his jacket as a few people stopped and stared.Â
Ignoring the looks, he entered the comic store, silently passing by a few customers and Mother Doomsday who didnât even notice the ninja. He headed towards the back corner that Lloyd had mentioned, peering around the bookcase to observe the little reading nook that Mother Doomsday had set up - with beanbags, couches, and side tables aplenty.Â
But his eyes found Lloyd, Ed, and Edna. Lloyd was on his feet, passionately explaining the plot to Starfarer as Ed and Edna listened in closely, encouraging him with questions and âooohsâ and âaahhhsâ. The young boy was practically glowing with attention, a bag of candy at his feet and a bag of comics on the chair where he'd likely been sitting.Â
[M/n] leaned against the bookcase, watching the scene and finding peace. The glass roof let in natural lighting, keeping the space warm and cozy with string lights around the edges of the store, plush carpeting, multiple posters on the walls, and even a massive colorful mural of at least 4 different comic series. He allowed his eyes to slide closed, listening to Lloyd and the background chatter of the others in the store. A part of him wished this could last forever, that Lloyd would not have to grow up and fight his own father.Â
When Lloyd came to a stopping point, or rather a breathing point, [M/n] called out, âIt looks like you've had a good day."
Lloyd spun around, practically bouncing towards him, â[M/n]! Did you see what Ed and Edna got me?â
âI saw. Candy, and comics,â [M/n] teased, lightly squeezing his cheek. âWhat a duo.â
âYeah!â
Ed and Edna both stood, smiling at the sight, âYou're back early, dearie. Did something happen?"
âNya managed to get in contact with a realtor to show us some properties, and I thought Lloyd deserved to see his possible new home. Thank you for watching him. And for buying the comics and candy. I can pay you back for those.â
âOh no, dearie, it was our pleasure,â Edna chirped.
âOh it was no problem, son, itâs been so long since weâve had a young one around.â
âBesides, heâs such a sweetheart,â Edna squeezed his other cheek, Lloyd preening under the attention even as his face reddened.Â
[M/n] smiled, escorting the two out to the Jalopy, finding Ara standing in the street, looking a little annoyed. âWe'll come to visit soon. Promise. I wouldn't want to deprive you of Lloyd's company."
âOh, you jester,â Edna tittered, lightly swatting at his arm. âYou have to come as well, Iâll even make you dinner. Chicken Pot Pie and Stuffed Pasta Shells! Oh, Iâll pull out the good cutlery!â
âYouâll have to let me cook for you one day.â
âThat sounds wonderful, son! Well, have fun! And we hope you find a good place!â Ed called, climbing into the driver's seat.Â
âWeâll have boxes ready to make the move easier, dear! Have fun!â Edna yelled, waving energetically as they pulled away.Â
âBye!!â Lloyd waved back just as energetically, smiling widely as he held the two bags in his other hand. He then noticed Ara. âWeâre taking Ara?!â
âWe are.â [M/n] led him to the dragon who leaned down further, shifting his foreclaw to give them a step to get into the saddle. âDo you remember how to get on?â
âYeah, but can you hold the bags?â
âIâll put them in the saddle bags.â
As Lloyd climbed into the saddle, [M/n] fit the bags into the leather bags attached before climbing up behind him. âReady?â
âLetâs go!â
Ara began to move, entertaining Lloydâs command. He walked down the street until he came to a spot that gave him the room to push off and open his wings.Â
Lloyd leaned back, glancing up to [M/n], âWhen will I get my own dragon?â
âWho knows, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč. For now you will have to make do with flying with Ara and I or Ultra and the other Ninja.â He said the other dragons name with a strange inflection, still unsure of their new name: Ultra Dragon.Â
âOk,â Lloyd sighed.Â
âBe patient,â [M/n] comforted. âOne day you will have a dragon, but that is not a problem for now.â
âI know,â Lloyd said, shrugging. âI just donât wanna bother you when I wanna fly.â
âYou are not a burden, and will never be one, not to me. Asking me to fly is certainly not a bother. I enjoy flying and taking you flying.â
âAre you sure?â
âI am sure.âÂ
Lloyd smiled, leaning back against his guardian. Ara slowed as he approached the street Patty Keys Real Estate was on, completely unable to even approach the street due to how cramped it was. No maneuvering would allow Ara to land or even approach the building.Â
âDo you trust me, Lloyd?âÂ
âYeah, why?â [M/n] softened slightly, heart warming at the immediate trust.Â
âTurn,â [M/n] instructed, keeping Lloyd steady as he swung a leg over the saddle horn. âHold on tightly.â He tucked Lloyd into his front, easily standing on the saddle as Ara flew in place, before dropping backwards off the saddle into a freefall as Lloyd yelped. He clung to [M/n], trusting he wouldnât be hurt, but still nervous and startled by the sudden drop. As the ground approached, [M/n] used Spinjitzu to, once again, slow his descent before releasing it to land on his feet, throwing himself into a roll since the drop was from higher up.Â
He carefully set Lloyd down, the boy shaking his head as he looked around. âThat was fun! Can we do it again?!â
âMaybe later.â Shaking his head with a slight smile, [M/n] ushered Lloyd down the street towards the building the pamphlet indicated, just in time to see the ninja walking out with a woman. Lloyd saw them too and immediately stopped in his tracks.
The woman, who was likely Patty Keys, had black hair swept into such a tight bun it seemed to be keeping her wrinkles straight with bright pink lipstick.Â
Lloyd looked up at [M/n], âShe looksââ
âKeep that thought in your head. It is an inside thought.â
âReally? Seriously? But-â
âNo.â
âCan I tell you later?â
A bone deep sigh, âYou may.â
âOkay,â Lloyd whined, reluctantly letting [M/n] nudge him back into movement.Â
Zane smiled, âMs. Keys, this is our brother and ward, [M/n] Kyo and Lloyd Garmadon.â
She turned a critical eye on the two, but offered a tight smile, âItâs wonderful to meet the both of you! I hope Iâll be able to find you the perfect home! Do you have a budget? How much do you make a month?â
âUhhh,â Kai faltered, flushing.Â
âI get about 1,400 a month through ESA,â [M/n] answered.
âESA? Thatâs Employment and Support Allowance, yes?â
âCorrect.â
âWell, Iâm sure I know of a place that is within budget,â Ms. Keys said, leading them down the sidewalk.Â
Jay leaned over to whisper, âSince when you do you have money?â
âSince my coma. I get automatic payments according to the cost of living, and since we lived in the middle of nowhere I got more money for gas.â
âYou donât drive,â Kai reminded him.
âNo, I donât but you canât register a dragon like a vehicle.â
âThatâs-thatâs fair.â
Lloyd tugged at his GI, âIs that a lot?â
âOf money? Depends. In the grand scheme, not particularly. But, as weâre effectively homeless, yes it is.â
âOkay. Did you grab my candy?â
âNo, I left it with Ara. When weâre done, weââll eat and then Iâll find a place for him to land so you can grab your candy and comics.â
Lloyd grumbled slightly, slumping.Â
Ms. Keys led them to a dilapidated old building directly beside a new, massive skyscraper apartment building, âThis one-bedroom, one-half-bath is a cozy dream. Who needs extras when everything is in arm's reach? Now, wait until you see the lighting.â She pushed open the door, flipping the light switch to reveal a small room that was barely the size that the inner training rooms had been on the Bounty before the lightbulb flickered then fell, shattering. âUh, who needs lights when you have this view? Heh." The curtains opened to reveal the brick wall of the neighboring building.
Lloyd wrinkled his nose. "Uh, why do I smell old people?"
âLook doll, Iâm trying to work around your budget. Realistically, this is all you can afford,â she snapped, [M/n]âs eyes narrowing. Before he could retort, Cole spoke, trying to keep the peace.
âUh, this looks . . . promising. Remember, guys, Sensei told us our main objective is to train Lloyd, not kick our feet up in some swanky suite. If this is all we can afford, this is all we can afford.â
âWhoa, whoa, whoa, letâs not rush into any decision. I mean, if itâs really all about training and taking care of Lloyd, donât we need to live in some place thatâll make training and resting easier,â Jay pointed out, gesturing to the small apartment.
âYeah, Jay's right. If we have to get Lloyd ready to save Ninjago from his father, shouldn't he at least have his own room?"
âWhy would that matter? Did he not share a roo-â Kai slapped a hand over Zaneâs mouth, cutting him off.
âWeâre only thinking about the children, hehe,â Jay laughed nervously, ignoring [M/n]âs look.
âWell, I do have a nearby property that youâll just love,â Ms. Keys chirped, smiling falsely as she ushered them out. Lloyd fake gagged once her back was turned, [M/n] patting his head. She led them to the other building, across the street, the massive skyscraper, taking them all the way up to the top floor where she entered a passcode so they could enter.Â
The penthouse she showed them had massive floor to ceiling windows, a leather couch, marble countertops in the kitchen, cherry cabinets, and zebra wood flooring.Â
âWhoa.â
âOh man,â Jay whispered, reverently touching the side table beside the door.Â
âNow, this is the eight-bedroom Hero Suite. Floor-to-ceiling windows, digital wall television, state-of-the-art game console . . ."
As she continued to describe the penthouse, Kai and Jay became more excited. Cole, [M/n], and Zane were less excited, and Lloyd was just curious, waiting for when they could leave to go eat.Â
âThis is out of our price range,â Cole reminded them, Ms. Keys quickly stepping in with another false smile.Â
âOh, sure it costs a little more, but you deserve it. I forgot to mention, there's also a Dragon keep on the roof.âÂ
âNice.â
âMaybe we can get a hero discount. After all, we are the ninja who saved the city," Jay said, puffing out his chest a bit.
âI thought Lord Garmadon saved the city.âÂ
[M/n]âs eyes darkened, âAnd how did he manage to do so on his own? With Weapons that werenât his, using a plan that was not his, and who tangled the Devourer to keep her in place so he could strike the final blow. We helped Lord Garmadon save this city.â
Lloyd backed him up, âYeah!â
âFine.â Ms. Keys scowled darkly at them. âA small discount.â
âWe could get day jobs to pay for the extra expenses," Kai offered.
âWe always said we could use a little more responsibility,â Zane agreed.
âBut we have to train Lloyd.âÂ
âDid I mention the in-house training facility?âÂ
âWeâllââÂ
[M/n] slapped a hand over Jayâs mouth, âWe will take a few hours to think this through and find jobs first.â
âIâll only have this house available until 3 this afternoon.â
âWeâll have our decision by then.â It was only 11 so they had a few hours. âLetâs go.â [M/n] easily herded everyone out, waiting until they were downstairs and out of earshot. âWhat were you thinking? We do not have jobs secured to ensure we can afford that place, nor do I have enough to handle a month of payments. You cannot make decisions with money that is not your own, or without thinking things through.â
Jay and Kai looked away, one more reticent than the other. âSorry.â
âItâs a good place, with room for the dragons and space to train Lloyd. Itâs perfect,â Kai retorted, scowling.
âI am not saying it was a horrible choice, but it was overpriced. While we were at lunch, we will look for jobs using local newspapers. It will give us a chance to eat, to make sure we are thinking properly. Alright?â
âThat works.â
âYeah, yeah.â
âA much better plan.â
âOh thank FSM.âÂ
They chose a nearby fast food restaurant, Red Burger, to sit down at, with newspapers from a nearby Gas Station, tossing the parts they didnât need.Â
All five newspapers were spread out on the table, everyone munching on different burgers and tenders, Lloyd tucked against [M/n]âs side since he was more interested in eating and watching out the window than helping them find jobs.Â
âOooh, oooh, Zane! I found a job for one of those restaurants that cooks in front of you. I bet they'd love your cooking!" Jay excitedly told him, ripping out the ad for Zane.
Zane smiled, proud and slightly embarrassed, âThank you, Jay.â
âDo you think Iâd be able to snag a job as a security guard?â Cole asked, reading through the ad. âI mean, it says I need to be 18+, be physically fit, first aid training, and take a training class? I think.â
âYou should apply. You fit the requirements and you have fighting experience, plus you know Aikido, so restraining techniques,â [M/n] said, glancing up for a second. A few more minutes of silence as they sorted through the other ads, specifically looking for things that they could actually, reasonably apply for.
âI have two,â Zane announced, setting down two ads heâd torn free. âOne for a pizza delivery driver and one for a party entertainer."
Jay and Kai both shared a look before scrambling to grab the pizza ad, with Jay managing to come out victorious. He did a little happy dance in the booth, Kai sulkingly grabbing the party entertainer ad.
âHave you found anything yet, [M/n]?â Zane asked, noticing he was the only one without a prospective.Â
âA bartending job for the Obelisk. It looks like it is a new club that just opened,â [M/n] said, tearing out the ad.Â
âI thought you had to be over 21 if you have a job dealing with alcohol?" Jay wondered.
âYou do, but it doesnât need any experience and the other jobs all need years of experience.â [M/n] patted Lloydâs head, before gesturing for Cole to slide out of the booth so he could step out. âIâll be back in a few minutes. Do not eat my food.â
âWe wonât.â
âIâll protect it,â Lloyd chirped, sitting up to drag his food closer. He stepped out of the restaurant, ducking into an empty side alley before dialing a number heâd memorized after an incident before heâd ever retrieved the Golden Tessens.
âWho the hell is this?â
âRonin,â [M/n] deadpanned. âWhat a lovely way to answer the phone.â
â[M/n], how wonderful to hear from yaâ. Figured youâd pretend weâre not friends for a while longer.â
âWe are not friends. You happen to owe me a favor and know things that I need to know. This is a transaction.â
âYou callinâ in that favor?â
âI am.â
âWas hopinâ youâd forget about that.â
â. . .â [M/n] hoped his silence was telling.Â
âAlright, alright, geeze, no need taâ give me the silent treatment. What kinda favour do ya need?â
âI need a license forged.â
âA license? For what?â
âA driver's license, that says Iâm 21. I need it to pass inspection for a job.â
âHa! Seriously! Not a goody two shoes, huh?"
âRonin.â
âAlright, fine. So, license for, say, a 21 year old. Anything else? Like a job history?"Â
âI am a ninja, have been one since I was 10 years old. What job history would I realistically have?â
âFair ânough. I'll have 'em ready by tomorrow night. Where do you-"
âIgnacia. South Gate. I'll be waiting."
âIgnacia? Odd choice, but al-â [M/n] hung up, tucking the phone back into his pocket to head back inside Red Burger.Â
âWe should finish up soon,â Zane said when [M/n] came back, Cole standing to let [M/n] back in.Â
âIâll be quick.â [M/n] had no problem downing the rest of his burger and fries within 2 minutes, the others having already finished while he was making the phone call.Â
Lloyd frowned, âCan we stop so we can get my comics? You said we could.â
âIâm sorry, Lloyd, weâll have to do it after we get the penthouse sorted out,â [M/n] apologized.
âWhat? Seriously? Thatâs not fair!âÂ
âTheyâre just comics, dude,â Kai said, struggling not to roll his eyes.Â
Lloyd began to redden, but [M/n] rested a hand on his head. âI promise, once we get the papers signed Iâll make sure to summon Ara so you can get your comics.â
He seemed hesitant, watching [M/n]âs face, âYou have to promise. And if you go back on your promise I get more comics.â
âDeal. I promise.â
âGood.â
âLetâs go,â Kai said, rolling his eyes entirely this time. âWe need to get going unless we want to lose that penthouse.â
[M/n] sighed, still reluctant about their decision to rent the penthouse even if he agreed due to the training course that was included and a gaming console already installed - giving Lloyd room to learn and to be a kid.Â
Once there, Ms. Keys handed over the keys once [M/n] handed over the security deposit of 1,000 dollars, allowing them to begin the process of moving in quickly. Zane stayed behind in order to file the paperwork still needed, while the others drove the Sonic Raider back to the junkyard to pack up the few belongings they now had.Â
As promised, Lloyd was given his comics and allowed to stay back with Zane with another promise, from Jay this time, that his comics would be safely secured for the trip back.Â
In all it took barely 3 hours for the group to pack everything up, having had barely anything with them when the Bounty had been destroyed, and it took even less time for the group to set up in their chosen rooms. However it was already quite late, nearly 8, and the day had been tiring for everyone so they all crashed almost immediately.Â
[M/n] ushered Lloyd into their shared room - Lloyd had insisted - with the boy climbing onto the queen sized bed and sprawling happily across the bed. Shaking his head, [M/n] entered the connected bathroom that he would be sharing with Wu when he returned, to brush his teeth and splash his face with water.Â
Stepping out, he raised a brow at the way the boy had somehow tangled himself into the comforter, while spread out like a starfish. Huffing out a laugh, [M/n] reached for his ankle, squeezing slightly before tugging him down the bed.Â
Lloyd squealed, trying to valiantly cling to the blankets, only to drag them down with him, âHey!â
âBrush your teeth and change, then you can sleep.â
âAwwww,â Lloyd whined, sliding off the bed into a puddle on the ground.Â
âGo, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â
Lloyd proceeded to do this odd wiggle across the floor into the bathroom, [M/n] rolling his eyes and flinging his pjs at his head with no mercy, grinning at the âthwackâ sound they made when they connected with his head.Â
âWha-not fair!â The door slammed shut, [M/n] taking the opportunity to change into a simple tank and shorts before pulling back the heavy duvet and setting out thinner blankets for them to actually use. The door to the bathroom was nearly flung open, just as [M/n] settled down, Lloyd leaping into the bed and nearly hitting the other. âOops.â
âSettle down, Lloyd. Iâve let you stay up late two days this week. Not tonight.â
Lloyd groaned, flopping over onto the bed, âFine.â He dragged the covers over himself, grumpily settling down.Â
[M/n] hid an amused grin as he settled down as well. âGood night, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.âÂ
âGooâ nighâ, [M/n].â
When morning came, the ninja all had toast, eggs, and bacon - they would have to go grocery shopping. During said breakfast, [M/n] got a text from an unknown number that confirmed the date and time for the drop off of his new license.Â
âZane?â
âHmm?â
âWould you mind keeping an eye on Lloyd this afternoon? I have an errand to run and I donât want him to come along.â
âOf course. I have to make a list to go grocery shopping, stop by the hibachi restaurant to grab a resume and fill it out, and then go grocery shopping. Iâll have to take him along.â
âI can go too,â Cole volunteered. âThe bank isnât far from the ristorante, right?â Jay snickered at the way he pronounced ristorante as restaurant with a Ninjaoan accent but he was ultimately ignored.Â
âIt is only a block away,â Zane answered. âThat will make it much easier to carry the heavy things back.â
Lloyd, who had not been paying attention, finally tuned into what was happening. âWhat?â
âYouâre going shopping with Zane and Cole this afternoon, while I run an errand.â
âWhat? Why do I-â A single raised eyebrow had him stopping. âOkay. Can I at least get a treat?âÂ
[M/n] frowned, âNot this time, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč. Weâre spread thin on groceries as is. Once we get settled in we can start looking at snacks and treats, alright?â
âWait, no chocolate milk?!â Jay demanded.
âNo anything, except for meals. We barely have 400 dollars to spend on groceries for 5 of us. Anything extra is coming out of your own pocket. Weâre lucky Ed and Edna gave us some spices to tide us over for a few weeks.â
âAww man,â Jay whined, slumping over the counter. âThat sucks.â
âYouâll live,â Kai retorted, patting Jay on the back with an eye roll. âSo cheap meals for two weeks?â
âCorrect. Luckily, if we manage to be hired for the jobs we are applying for there is a possibility that we will be bringing home leftovers which will help.âÂ
âOh yeah, that's right,â Jay said, sitting up properly. âPizzas galore for us.â
âWhat kind of meals are you thinkinâ âbout doing?â Kai asked.
âSoups, stews, and casseroles,â Zane answered, pulling out their journal of groceries. âMany meals will have to be made larger to stretch over days.âÂ
âWhat about that Hungarian Goulash you made last year?â Cole asked. âIs there a way we could stretch that?â
âWe could use the leftovers to make dumplings,â [M/n] offered. âWe could also do tacos, then taco soup.â
Zane nodded, writing down the ingredients from memory. âWe can also make burritos out of the taco soup.â
âUhh, tuna casserole?â
âWe could use that to make some kind of bread topping? Like open sandwiches.â
On and on it went, everyone adding in ideas that could have repurposed leftovers with Zane adding the ingredients to the list and the price they would likely be found at. Once he had finished, it was still early so [M/n] decided to check out the training course.Â
Pressing the button, the wall beside the tv opening to reveal a hidden room. Lloyd followed, inspecting the room like [M/n] was, even if he had no idea what was happening. The older checked the weights, the tatami mat, the mounts on the walls for weapons, and the punching bag. Tucked away in a closet were dummies for practice.Â
â[M/n]?â
âYes.â
âCan you teach me how to kick now?âÂ
[M/n] tilted his head, thinking on the time, âAlright, I can do that. Go change real quick.â He dragged the punching bag out to the middle of the mats, before finding the tape heâd seen tucked away in the closet, on a low shelf. Lloyd came running back in, nearly tripping over his own feet. âSit down, Iâm going to show you how to wrap your feet with tape.âÂ
Lloyd sat down in front of him, confused, âWrap my feet? Why? Whatâs the point?âÂ
âGood wraps provide protection and act as a sort of buffer for training. It will make sure you donât get bad bruises on the top of your foot where the skin is thinner. And it will keep your ankle stable if you do end up kicking wrong.â He carefully wrapped Lloydâs feet and ankles, tightening the tape with practice.
âKicking wrong?â Lloyd asked, aghast.
âThere is a lot that can go wrong in a fight, Lloyd,â [M/n] warned. âListen closely. If you kick and the person manages to block a certain way or your kick lands wrong, it can lead to a broken shin or leg. It is rare but always a possibility. More common injuries are strains and torn ligaments.â
Lloyd was horrified, âI can break my shin if I kick wrong?â
âRarely, but I want you to be informed. This is why I do not want you to practice kicks without someone nearby, do you understand?âÂ
âI understand completely.â
[M/n] finished Lloyd's before doing his own. âGood, now we do stretches.âÂ
It took a good two hours for Lloyd to be properly taught to kick, [M/n] focusing first on his stance and the movement separately before even allowing the boy to attempt a kick against the punching bag. He struggled to keep his balance, unused to balancing on one leg with all the movement, before struggling to actually use his hip when he roasted to get enough power to do anything. Now, he wasnât perfect at it, but [M/n] believed that would be enough to at the very least he would be able to kick an opponent with some degree of power and accuracy.Â
There would be time for more lessons.Â
When it finally came time for [M/n] to leave, Lloyd was reluctant to let him leave, clinging resolutely to his front, âWhy canât I come with you?â The gentle nudges against his shoulders went ignored, the boy clinging to him too tightly.
âThe person I am meeting is not someone you should have to be exposed to. I do not even want to be exposed to him.â [M/n] stopped pushing at his shoulder and gently rested a palm on his blond hair.Â
âIs he dangerous?â
âWhen he wants to be.â
âBut if heâs dangerous donât you need backup? I can be back up! I know how to punch and kick now!â
âI may have phrased that wrong. He is dangerous, but he knows better than to try anything with me. This man isnât someone who would do something that could end with his death or even being too badly injured. He is too self serving for that. I need to go, Lloyd, this is important. I trust Zane and Cole to take care of you. Can I trust you to be good and helpful?â
Lloyd sighed, reluctantly releasing him, âWill you hurry?â
âI will be as fast as I can be.â
[M/n] left the penthouse through a tucked away staircase that led straight to the roof, where Ara was waiting. The flight to Ignacia took almost two hours on its own, even without landing directly in the village. Past the farms, Ara landed in the woods surrounding the rice fields. Meeting Ronin by the gates with Ara would only stress out the villagers unnecessarily.Â
The sparse forest surrounding Ignacia was calm and peaceful, a direct contrast to the surprisingly bustling village. [M/n] enjoyed the calmness until he noticed the unusually restless Ara. His foreclaws were digging deep into the grass, sinking into the dirt beneath as his massive tail swayed. It occurred to him then that Ara had remained on the roof all day and was anxious to stretch his wings and perhaps even hunt.Â
Sliding down from the saddle, he gently ran a hand down Araâs snout before moving to lean against a nearby tree, the wyvern quickly taking off into the air. Heâd need to hunt farther out, since heâd likely already disturbed the prey around here. Leaning against the tree, [M/n] allowed his eyes to close though he kept his ears open.Â
He had plenty of time before Ronin was to arrive, and the warmth of the sun against his skin was peaceful and warming. After the chaos of the past few weeks, this moment was something he had needed. However, the moment was ruined when the back of his neck began to tingle, hair raising. Slowly opening his eyes, he stayed still for a long minute, waiting for whoever or whatever was behind him to announce their presence or continue on. To keep from raising suspicion, he slowly moved his hands to his belt, hovering above his Tessens.Â
Keeping it casual, in case it was an unaware citizen, he turned his head and felt his heart nearly stop, stuttering in his chest. His hands went slack, goosebumps appearing on his arms. He couldnât bring himself to turn any further.Â
Morro smirked, drifting around to properly face [M/n] - and that was quite a shock. The man standing, or rather floating, in front of him was a ghost. And based on the green glow, he was likely from the Cursed Realm, if he was remembering his mythology correctly. Though it might not have been mythology, since he was floating right in front of him.Â
The strange ghostly tail split to form his legs, Morro dropping slightly to âstandâ on the ground, arms crossed below the strange ornamentation on his chest. He was as tall as he had appeared in his dreams those days he had walked the line, but he lacked the muscle definition heâd had within, seeming gaunt. The skin of his face clung tightly to his bone, leaving him brutally gaunt. The grey GI heâd left in was torn around the arms and legs, revealing strange burns across the revealed âskinâ.Â
And looped around his neck was a chain with an iron skull and four more chains coming from its mouth to link back to the neck chain in the back. There were broken cuffs on his wrists, the chains floating and twisting aimlessly.Â
âYou done lookinâ?â Morro taunted, head tilting.Â
[M/n] fell into the rhythm easily, âAm I not allowed to?â Morro laughed, a rough, raspy bark that eased some of the tension in his shoulders.
âAlways are.â
[M/n]âs smile fell, watching the floating chains attached to the cuffs, âYou told me you were dead. Not that you were a ghost of the Cursed Realm. I deserved to know.â
âHow-â Morro cut himself off, head shaking. âToo damn smart for your own good. And I never gave you credit for that. I didn't tell you because it wasn't important. You were dying. You didn't need to hear of how I ended up after I abandoned you. My failures did not need to be unloaded on you before you died or woke up with whatever injury you had.â
âFailures? What failures?"
âIt doesnât matter.â Morro shut it down, giving him a warning look.Â
âFine. Iâll let it go.â âFor nowâ. âWhy are you here, Morro? I have not been injured. I am not on the brink of death.â
âDunno. I was . . . busy, but then I showed up here. Figured youâd done something to call me here. Besides, is it that bad seeing me?â He received an eye roll for that. âAnd I am glad you are alive.â It came out stilted and unsure, very unlike him.
[M/n] softened anyway, âYou were . . . worried about me?â
Morro was surprised by the question, brow furrowing tightly. His glowing teal eyes ran over him, taking in what differences he could see in his stance and eyes alone â the eyes were the windows to the soul, after all, âI . . . always am, always was.â He drifted forward, until they were chest to chest, Morro tilting his head down ever so slightly to peer down his nose at [M/n]. âNÇ shÇzhĆng zhĂ njĂčzhe wÇ de sÄ«xĂč.â (You are always occupying my thoughts/You are always on my mind.)
[M/n]âs eyes narrowed. âNÇ zĂ i gÄn wÇ tiĂĄoqĂng, hÇo zhuÇnyĂ wÇ de zhĂčyĂŹ lĂŹ ma.â (Are you flirting with me to distract me?)
âWÇ shĂŹ ma?â Morro leaned forward, before he could retort, solidifying to press their lips together. [M/n] pressed back into the touch, basking in it, no matter how odd it felt. Not warm or solid in the way it should have been but cool. Lifting a hand up he pressed a palm to Morroâs chest, to the side of the iron skull, the man allowing the touch. (Am I?)
When [M/n] was forced to pull away, lungs burning, Morro looked dazed, âWÇ wĂ ngle nÇ de zÄ«wĂši. ZhÄn mÄiwĂši.â (I have forgotten your taste/flavor. Truly delicious.)
[M/n] did not respond. The words on his tongue were cruel, so he held them in, putting them at a standstill as Morro stared him down. His gaze was heavy, sharp.Â
âI donât know much,â Morro admitted suddenly, switching back to modern Ninjaoan, startling [M/n]. âWhat I do know is that you need to trust your gut. Always. You know more than you realize, so trust yourself.âÂ
Going to speak, Morro abruptly cut himself off â the chains began to glow, their weightless floating changing as they began to droop, as if theyâd suddenly gained weight. Growling to himself, Morro grabbed [M/n] by the shoulders, âDÄyĂŹng wÇ. DÄyĂŹng wÇ, nÇ huĂŹ xiÄngxĂŹn nÇ zĂŹjÇ!â (Promise me. Promise youâll trust yourself.)
[M/n] tried to grab onto Morroâs wrist but they slipped through, sending a chill across his skin, âMorro, WÇâWÇ bÇozhĂšng.â (I-I promise.)
A wince. Morro pulled away, nodding to himself, âHÇo de.â (Good.)
âMorro, what isââ The sound of a motor, [M/n] cutting himself off to look up. R.E.X. passed overhead, a low hiss escaping him, âRonin.â
âGood luck, [M/n].â Looking back to Morro, [M/n]âs heart lurched when he saw the way his body was fading, the collar around his throat tight and tugging. âI love you.â
âI love you too.â
His words were whispered into an empty forest, the wind carefully blowing the leaves of the trees around him in its own goodbye. The silence of the forest pressed down on him, leaving [M/n] to his swirling thoughts until KhĂȘlai shifted around again, forcing him to focus. Sucking in a breath, he held it until his lungs burned and he felt more centered, before finding a path that led to Ignaciaâs Southern Gate.Â
Ronin was leaning against the wall, a piece of wheat caught in his mouth, red rice hat pulled low over his eyes to hide his expression. Tilting his head, Ronin flashed the ninja a grin, âWell, well, well, look whoâs late. So, how's your days been? What with all this Great Devourer business happenin' in Ninjagoââ
âDo not pretend to care, Ronin. I am in no mood to listen to your nonsense. The license."Â
His eyes narrowed, the brown tugging at [M/n]âs memory but he ignored it, far too wound up to deal with his damaged mind.Â
âGeeze, just tryinâ to be friendly.â Ronin pulled the licenses free of one of his many pockets, holding it out with a smirk. âDrivers license and a liquor service license, issued by the City of Ninjago itself. Is that all you needed? âCause I got plenty more to help you get the job without trouble. Could even whip up a resume for yaâ, for a small fee, of course.â
âThis is all I need.â He begrudgingly added, âThank you. For the liquor service license.â
âJust makinâ sure my debt is repaid in full,â Ronin said, saluting the ninja, only for his grin to falter at his scoff.Â
âRepaid? No, it is not. I saved your life, Ronin, a license, even two, is not equal. You still owe me a favor, a small one, at the very least. Anything further I need will be paid for.â
âNow hang on a minute here, do you know how hard it is to forge a good license that'll hold up under most scrutiny? And it cost a pretty penny too.â
âYou have plenty of money, Ronin. I saved your life. No amount of money amounts to a life saved.âÂ
âFine. Pleasure doin' business with ya, [M/n],â Ronin sneered, stalking back down the path he must have come up, grumbling to himself in a very familiar language. [M/n] didnât move, even he heard his distinct whistle call for R.E.X. and saw the machine lifting into the air.Â
Behind him the village continued its daily business, only a few people even noticing the young adult at the gate.Â
A faint spark of pain lanced through the hinge of his jaw, so he reached up to massage the muscles before his ears, trying to soothe the tenseness in himself. Sighing raggedly, he shoved the two licenses into his pockets, before moving down the path with purpose. Passing through the small clearing where Morro had come, [M/n] faltered but continued walking in the direction of Ninjago City, too keyed up to wait for Ara.Â
A part of him ached to stay, to try and figure out what was bringing Morro here, to replicate it so he could see the man again. But sense told him not to mess with it. He had no idea of the repercussions that could be brought down upon him if he messed with something he did not entirely understand. He didnât even have a clue of what it could possibly be. So he continued walking.Â
Walking on and on, [M/n] didnât notice Araâs approach. It was only when the dragon landed in front of him, purposefully, that he did, eyes finally focusing. Specifically focusing on the fact that his maw was smeared in the blood of his hunt, which made him sigh.
Offering the wyvern an exhausted smile, [M/n] shook his head, âWhat am I going to do with you?â He gently ran a hand over the bloodless areas of his snout, gently scratching at the area. âWe should head back.â
Ara hummed, offering his foreclaw for him to use as a boost to climb back into the saddle, waiting for the ninja to settle in. In two powerful beats of his wings, Ara was up, easily climbing into the sky before evening out to take them back to the penthouse. This view let [M/n] realize that he had traveled farther than he thought, past the sparse forest into the thicker area known as the Quietwoods, that surrounded the area where the Monastery of Spinjitzu sat.Â
There were still streaks of light in the sky, the sun still faintly showing even as the rest darkened, stars glowing faintly, but Ara kept a more sedate pace. He tilted his head to peer back at him, letting out a worried croon after sensing his off mood.Â
[M/n] hesitated, but who else could he truly speak to about it? Zane would only somewhat understand and he didnât want to speak to Wu about it, even if he could. He was struggling to understand the visit and Morroâs part in his past, so maybe speaking to the wyvern would help. âI saw Morro again. I knew he wasnât alive, but he never told me he was in the Cursed Realm. I donât know how to feel anymore, Ara. I know Morro and I were Wuâs students, but he never told me, why wouldnât Wu tell me that? Heâs kept me in the dark about so much.â
He groaned, head dropping into his hands. âI was the one to go after the Golden Tessens, I was the one learning about KhĂšlai and my Element, about the prophecy. He only told me about the second prophecy after I had the Golden Tessens and had already read my prophecy for myself. Does he not trust me? Heâs supposed to be my teacher and yet . . . I feel like I do not need him. Like . . . Like my training is finished perhaps. I do not know.â Dropping his head into his hands, he groaned again, Ara rumbling soothingly. âI miss Morro and yet I barely remember him. I know him, and miss him like I would miss one of my organs, but I do not remember him. I do not remember how he smelled in life, how he would have felt, or our closest memories.â
Ara gave him a soft croon.
âThe Bounty . . .â His eyes misted over, âI lost everything that was his, that reminded me of him. The kanzashi, the bracelet, the ribbon, everything, Ara, and I have no way to replace it. It hurts and I am so tired already, Ara, and the prophecy looms ever closer.âÂ
Ara did his best to offer comfort, beginning to rumble heavily, mimicking a purr, as [M/n] went silent having spilled all that was on his mind. Gently patting his side, the ninja focused on the world passing underneath - passing by in blurs of deep and bright green, of lights when they reached the city. By the time they landed upon the roof of the building, night had fallen, the wyvern doing his best to remain quiet since Ultra seemed to be asleep.Â
Shard, however, was not actually asleep, opening pale blue eyes to watch them.Â
[M/n] carefully dismounted, slowly sliding down so his landing wasnât so loud. Passing by his dragon's head, he offered him another scratch along his brow, before doing the same to Shard, who breathed out a soft, cold mist that left tiny ice crystals on his shirt. âGood night, Shard, Ara. Sleep well, you two.â
Slipping down the stairs, he entered the apartment, hearing the quiet murmur of the tv in the background as he leaned down to tug off his boots.Â
Zane, who was in the kitchen, spoke up, âWould you like a cup of tea? It seems like you need it.â [M/n] glanced down at the ice crystals with a sigh, brushing them off.Â
âI would actually, thank you.â
âDid the meeting go wrong?â Zane was worried, setting the kettle on the stove.Â
âNo, no. Ronin was as irritating as always, but he offered no issues.â [M/n] pensively stared at the marble counter, brow furrowed.Â
â[M/n]? You know you can tell me anything, right? I may not be able to understand but I will try to do my best.â
âI know, Zane. I . . . Have I ever told you about Morro?â
âMorro? No, I do not recognize the name.â
âHe was . . . I believe he was my boyfriend before my coma, but I donât remember much of the relationship. I do however remember that Wu was training us both.â
âDid he not tell you of his existence?â
âNo. Everything about Morro I know is from what I remember.â
âPerhaps he has a reason for keeping him a secret. Though I wonder why we have not had the opportunity to meet him.â
âMorro is dead. I believe he passed before my coma. His room at the Monastery was . . . it was more like a shrine than a room.â
Zane was silent as he added the tea sachet of a Calming Blend. âIâm sorry, [M/n]. I did not realize.â
âItâs alright. But that is not what has my mind so twisted. Zane, I saw him tonight. As a ghost, standing right in front of me.â
âA ghost? [M/n]-â
âI know it should be impossible but Ninjago seems to be a place of the impossible.â
âI was not going to refute you. If you saw a ghost then I believe you did. You are not one to lie or make up things.â
âThank you.â [M/n] glanced into the living room, Zane pouring him a cup of tea. âHow was his day?â
âGood, he and Cole fell asleep halfway into their second movie. Lloyd was a little worried, but he was sufficiently distracted by the movies. Cole let him pick the first one.â
âI did not mean to worry him. It was a simple pick up.â
âLloyd is quite attached to you, I have noticed. He seems to take comfort in your presence.â
âHe is the Green Ninja.â
Zane gave him a doubtful look, âDo not play it off. Lloyd cares about you because you care about him. His life has improved since he came into our care, specifically because of you.âÂ
âI know, I do. It is simply . . . I feel as if Destiny is what brought him into my care.â
âPerhaps it did. Perhaps it chose you as the Silver Ninja because it knew you would be the best pick, the best protector.â
âPerhaps,â [M/n] echoed, taking a sip of the tea. His eyes lidded at the flavor combination, breathing in the steam - passion flower, lemon balm, lavender, chamomile, and hibiscus - feeling it settle in his lungs and soothe the tension in his shoulders.Â
âI can help you remove Lloyd from Cole so that the two of you can head to bed.â
âThat would be appreciated, Zane, thank you.âÂ
Setting their cups down, they headed into the living room to separate Cole and Lloyd - who was tucked under Coleâs arm, both under the same blanket. Zane carefully removed the blanket, [M/n] crouching to pull Lloyd free to carry him back to their room. Cole sleepily tightened his grip, blinking awake when he realized Lloyd was being pulled away. He squinted, relaxing when he saw it was just [M/n] and Zane.Â
Lloyd grumbled, but settled once [M/n] had him securely in his arms, head resting on his shoulder. Zane carefully adjusted the blanket back over Cole, before grabbing his and [M/n]âs cups of tea to follow him back towards his room. Carefully setting Lloyd down on the bed, he then tucked him under the blankets, pausing to rest a hand on his forehead with a soft look.Â
Zane quietly set down his cup of tea on the bedside table, âGood night, [M/n]. I shall see you in the morning.â
âGood night, Zane. Thank you. For the tea.â
Zane chuckled, nodding along as he closed the door behind him. Once more he checked on Lloyd before he grabbed his night clothes to change into, changing in the bathroom before grabbing a book Edna had bought for him - Ninjaoan Mythology. Flicking off the main lights, he turned on his side lamp and settled down to read with his cup of tea.Â
KhĂȘlai formed, perching on the bottom bed board as a Barred Owl, sensing his inner turmoil and unease. Their head tilted, images of Morro, ghost Morro, flashing through [M/n]âs mind alongside a question.
âNot tonight, KhĂȘlai. Iâll explain another time.â
The creature ruffled its feathers, turning around awkwardly to keep an eye on the window and door.Â
Closing his book, [M/n] set it off to the side, and settled down to go to sleep. Every once in a while he would wake up to check on Lloyd before falling back asleep.
[M/n] was eventually woken up when Lloyd sprawled across his stomach, nearly falling off the side until [M/n] grabbed onto his ankle to keep him still, dragging him back further onto the bed.Â
Since the sun was up, he figured it was time to wake up anyways though he gave Lloyd another half hour to sleep as he meditated. Lloyd reluctantly began to wake up when [M/n] began running his fingers through his hair, unknotting it with careful tugs that disturbed his sleep. He grumbled, trying to curl up only to realize he was not actually laying on the bed anymore.Â
âWha-â
âMorning, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â Lloyd was shocked at how raspy and hoarse his voice was all of a sudden, blushing slightly.Â
âGood morning, [M/n].â Lloyd mumbled, settling beside the other and trying not to meet his eyes. [M/n] raised a brow, but ultimately dismissed it, slipping out from the bed to grab his clothes for the day. âI have a question.â
âI have an answer.â
Lloyd wrinkled his nose, âWhatâs a crush? And can two guys be together? Cole had us start this weird movie last night about two guys falling in love.â
âHe- What- Hold on. One at a time. First, a crush is . . . at your age, a crush is maybe infatuation or admiration of someone else. Sometimes those feelings can grow and turn into truly liking someone but Iâm not quite sure how that works.â
âBut how do you get a crush?â
âProximity. Admiration that turns into infatuation. There can be many reasons someone has a crush on another person, but those crushes tend to be surface level. Maybe you like how they look or their voice, but you rarely know them deeper. After you get to know someone that is likely around the time you actually begin to like them.â
âI guess that makes sense. But what about guys? Can two of them really get together?âÂ
âThey can,â [M/n] said slowly, trying to gather his thoughts. âIf they want to.â
âIf they want to?â
[M/n] exhaled. âOkay. This is going to be a long conversation. First, being attracted to someone of the same gender as you is called being Gay, though it is typically used for men. So two guys can be together if they are both Gay. Just like a woman and a man can be together if they are straight. There are other terms for different things but that is not something Iâm going to discuss with you just yet.â
âHow do you know if youâre gay?â
âThat-Itâs different for everyone. I realized I was gay when I was a teen, after having a longstanding crush on another guy. Sometimes itâs easy like that, other times it can be much more difficult.â
âSo am I gay âcause I donât like girls?â
âYou could be. But that could simply be because you are young. Give it a few more years before you start labeling yourself and shoving yourself into a tiny little box, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â
âOkay. Do you remember who the guy was? The one you liked.â Lloyd watched his guardian's features shift slowly, softening with grief and love.
âI do. His name was Morro. He wasnât just someone I liked either, he was my boyfriend, my partner,â [M/n] admitted, turning away from Lloyd to grab his clothes. He cleared his throat. âIâm going to take a shower before I make breakfast.â
He was quick to enter the bathroom, effectively ending the conversation. Lloyd winced, feeling as if heâd upset [M/n], so he headed out to the living room, curling up on the couch with a comic. But no matter how hard he tried, he couldnât focus on the pages, glancing up to the hallway every few minutes until [M/n] finally emerged, hair still damp.Â
[M/n] cut him off, âYou had every right to ask me, do not apologize. I apologize for leaving so abruptly, Lloyd. It is just . . . Morro is a touchy subject for me.â
âCan I ask why?â
âMorro . . . Heâs dead, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â
Lloydâs eyes went wide, âOh, Iâm sorry.â [M/n] sat down beside Lloyd.Â
âItâs alright. You didnât know.â
Lloyd quietly leaned into his side, [M/n] tucking him close for a long minute, just basking in the silence. âDo you want to help me make breakfast?â
âWhat are you making?â
âWell, Zane got the ingredients for congee and miso soup and I bet he picked up a few fruits too.â
âYeah, we got bananas, apples, and mangoes. I helped pick out the bananas.â
âThen I guarantee theyâll be delicious. I also planned on making puff puffs.â
âPuff puffs? Whatâre those?â
âItâs a popular street food in the cities and towns of the Mwt Desert.â
âWhereâs that?â
âOn the other side of the continent almost.â
âAnd youâve visited?â
âNot personally, unfortunately. Zaneâs father, however, is from there and he shared many stories and recipes with him before he passed. Since remembering his father, Zane has done his best to learn as many recipes as he possibly can from that region.â
âThatâs really cool. Where did you learn your recipes?â
âSome I remember off the top of my head, others I found in books, and some Zane helped me learn. But I do know the two regions it all comes from: Nereus Beach and Drys Forest.â
âCan we visit one day?â
[M/n] smiled, âI think we can find the time to do so. Now, letâs get started. You can help me make the congee.â
âIsnât that the rice porridge thing Nya makes for breakfast sometimes?âÂ
âIt is.â
âI know the recipe! Nya lets me help when she makes it!â
âThen letâs get the ingredients.â
Lloyd happily jumped up, rushing to the kitchen to begin rifling through the walk-in pantry. [M/n] followed, pulling out the scallions, ginger, mushrooms, garlic, soy sauce, onion, and white miso paste, carefully organizing everything on the counter. Lloyd came back out with a 5lb bag of rice and dried seaweed, which [M/n] was quick to take before he could drop it.Â
âWhat do you need for the puff puffs?â
âFlour, sugar, and yeast. I can grab the oil.â Lloyd rushed right back into the pantry, earning a fond smile as [M/n] grabbed the oil and spices he would need. To get Lloyd started, [M/n] chopped up the scallions, ginger, and garlic cloves, leaving them in a bowl for him to add to the rice, leaving Lloyd to strain the rice until the water ran clear.Â
Once finished with that, [M/n] set to work on the miso soup, making a large batch that could be frozen and stretched over a few days for breakfast until everyone started bringing home more money. Once that and the congee were nearly done, he finally started on the puff puffs, adding cinnamon, ehuru, and cardamom to the dough before frying it.Â
Zane emerged, completely dressed, âDo you need help with anything, [M/n]?â
âThe fruits still need to be cut up for the congee.â
âDo you need my help?â Lloyd asked.
âNo, you did good, Lloyd, go ahead and sit down.âÂ
âOkay.âÂ
Jay was the next to emerge, partially dressed but awake, and surprisingly chipper, âGood morning, everyone!â
âMorning, Jay.â
âGood morning.â
âMorning.â
Barely five minutes after that, bowls of congee and miso soup were set out, a massive plate stacked tall with puff puffs was set out in the center of the dining table and smaller plates of fruit were set around it, with a bottle of honey and syrup.
Jay was practically salivating, dragging the plate of bananas closer to add some slices and a drizzle of honey, before digging in with relish. Lloyd added both the darker maple syrup and the lighter floral honey mixing it into the congee well, forgoing the fruits, to create a thick, syrupy sugary congee.Â
Zane and [M/n] both added all three fruits and a little bit of honey, before they dug into the meal, even dipping their puff puffs into the congee mixture. They all ate silently, Jay nearly scarfing down his own meal, until Cole and Kai joined, starting up conversations about their day.
âSo weâve all got interviews right? Who's gonna take care of Lloyd?â Kai asked.
âMy interview is for late afternoon, around 7,â [M/n] said. âAs long as someone is home by then we should be good.â
âMy interviews for 7 in the morning,â Jay remembered. âSo I should be back way before then.â
[M/n] eyed Jay, âZane, you didnât get any candy, did you?â
âNo, I did not.â The entire table began laughing at Jayâs outraged and shocked face as he began spluttering.
âWha-What does candy have to do with anything?! Iâm an adult!â
âBarely,â Lloyd retorted, nearly sending Cole into cardiac arrest as he began wheezing from laughing too hard. âIâm more of an adult.â
Cole was nearly falling off his chair, clinging to the table valiantly. Even [M/n] was laughing, though he was trying to hide his face behind a hand.Â
Jay sulked, sinking into his chair as everyone calmed down.Â
âThank you,â [M/n] said, muffling a laugh-cough. âFor watching him. Make sure he gets to bed by 9, if I'm not back by then, Iâm not sure how long the interview will be.â
âIâm not a baby, why do I have to go to bed at 9?âÂ
âBecause that is late enough for an 11 year old to be awake.â
âChildren need more sleep than adults do. In fact, it would be healthier for you to go to bed at 8 in order for you to wake up at 7AM, making sure you get the necessary 10 hours of sleep,â Zane explained, Kai turning to the side to try and hide his own laughter with fake coughs.Â
â9 works, 9 is fine.â
âThat is what I thought,â [M/n] hummed, finishing off his miso soup. âJay, you should get dressed. Itâs 6:27.âÂ
âNo! Crap!â Jay scrambled to get up and race back to his room to get dressed.Â
âI should get dressed as well, my interview is at 8:30 and I should arrive early,â Zane decided, standing and grabbing bowls and plates to take them to the sink. âKai, youâre on dishes.â
âDamnit,â he grumbled, reluctantly gathering the plates to bring to the sink.Â
[M/n] silently ushered Lloyd from the dining room, the boy happily taking over the tv to watch a show as [M/n] cleaned up and stored everything. With several hours before he had to be ready, he knew he had plenty of time to teach Lloyd ukemi in order to prepare him for further training. But he also knew that they had just woken up, so he gave Lloyd a half hour to watch tv, sitting on the couch to relax and allow his stomach to settle.Â
Lloyd had put on an animated show about, he believed, twins and a grunkle? He was positive he was mishearing it, or misinterpreting what was being said, but let it go watching the two get into trouble after challenging someone to a golf war. It was odd, but Lloyd seemed entertained and it was interesting enough.Â
When it ended he grabbed the remote from the table to turn off the tv, earning a squawk from Lloyd, âNO! I wanted to see what happens next!â
âYou can watch more after we train. Unless youâve decided you no longer want to train?â
âNo, no! I want to! I promise! What am I learning today? How to flip a man? How to break someone's arm if they try to kidnap me?â
âNo, and if someone kidnaps you, Iâll hunt you down and get you back if I donât break their arm first.â [M/n]âs eyes flashed ominously, the reminder of the carnage heâd wrought in Ouroboros brought to the forefront of his mind. âNo, todayâs lesson will be ukemi.â
âU-what?â
âUkemi. The art of the breakfall. It is important to learn before we begin tossing you around on the mat, and will make sure we donât accidentally break a bone. However, I have found it can be used in real fights once you have mastered it.â
âReally? I guess thatâs kinda cool.â
âFighting is not about being cool.â
âThen why is everyone so flashy when they fight?â
[M/n] sighed, âBecause they are idiots. Effective idiots, but idiots all the same. Flips and twists may look impressive but in the end it exerts energy, and fights can drag on, meaning you need to save energy. Does that make sense?âÂ
âYeah, I get it. Flips still look cool though.â
âAnd you are welcome to use them once you have mastered fighting. Now, go get dressed. I will be in the training room.â
Lloyd ran off, [M/n] silently crossing to open the hidden entrance to the training room. There wasnât anything for him to set up today, so he began stretching on his own - starting with the king pigeon pose. The slight strain on his back was comforting, in a sense, and held the pose for a solid minute before switching sides. It was then that Lloyd happened to come in.
âOh my FSM!â He was shocked.
âWhat?â [M/n] asked, calmly releasing his leg to settle on his knees. âSurprised?â
âI didnât know you were that flexible!â
âYou should see Jay.â
âCan all of you do that?â
âJay and I can do that pose, which is called the King Pigeon, because we are more flexible. Kai, Zane, and Cole can all do Mermaid Pose, which is the form right before it.â
âDo I have to do that?â
âNo, not any time soon. Maybe in a few months youâll be able to, but youâll start off with beginner poses.â
âWhoo, I thought you were gonna make me do that and then I was gonna die, cause I canât do that.âÂ
[M/n] chuckled, patting the mat beside him. âWeâll start simple, sound good?â
âYeah.â
First was thread the needle pose, which would help open the shoulders and upper back, and was an easy beginners pose that Lloyd caught onto immediately, though he tried to rush it by moving quickly.Â
âYou cannot rush stretches, Lloyd. That completely defeats the purpose.â
âBut itâs boring. And I wanna learn about the Ukemi thing.â
âPatience, Lloyd,â [M/n] repeated, continuing the exercise. âYou will learn that, I promise, but you have to learn how to do stretches properly. If I let you learn it wrong it will become a problem later on.âÂ
âFine.â Lloyd slowed down, reluctantly, sulking as he did so.
âI remember disliking stretches as a child as well,â [M/n] admitted after a pause. âI had little interest in them, and much preferred the actual training aspect. In the end I ended up with a dislocated shoulder.â
âWhat? How?!â
âI was practicing holds with another student. When they went to do the hold, they pulled my arm the same way I had done theirs, just on the point of pain, except I had not stretched and my shoulder simply popped out of place.â
âPopped?!â
âNot like that.â [M/n] finished the exercise and sat on his knees again. âThink of your shoulder bone being a C-shape, with the ball of your arm tucked inside. When it is pulled wrong the ball is pulled from its place, thus popping out of place.â
âThatâs freaky,â Lloyd said, sitting up. âBut how did not stretching do that?â
âIt wasnât the complete cause, but it was a factor. Because I had not stretched, my shoulders were tense, so my training partner accidentally pulled my arm, overextending it. I do not know the science behind it, but we can ask Zane later if you like."
âAre you messing with me?â
âI am not, no.â
âBut I thought you couldnât remember anything?â
âI do not remember everything. I have large gaps, but I remember small things or associated events that happen, such as training because I actively follow the same or similar training regimes. My memory will likely always be spotty, unfortunately, but Zane believes there is hope I will regain my more important memories eventually.â
Lloyd was quiet, unsure how to respond.Â
âShall we continue? There is only one more stretch left.â
He nodded, allowing [M/n] to direct them into the next exercise, the figure four stretch. Laying on their backs, they crossed one ankle over the opposite knee, before gently pulling their legs closer to their chests. Lloyd squirmed, feeling the stretch, to [M/n] reached over and pushed his legs back an inch at a time until the pain lessened.Â
âYou donât have to pull that far, not if it hurts. When you stretch, you want the pain to be borderline, where it's just starting to hurt. Eventually you will notice that you can push a little farther each time. Now, do the other leg.â
They held the pose on the opposite leg for another minute before they sat up.Â
âNow, are you ready to learn Ukemi?âÂ
âReady!âÂ
âGood. Now, weâre going to start on level 1, alright. So, first, put your feet in an L-shape, then slide down to kneel on your right leg,â [M/n] said, doing the same on the opposite knee. It took Lloyd a second to understand, but once he looked up and saw [M/n]âs kneel, he managed to do it. âGood. Keep your back straight, donât slouch. Hold out your left hand, face it in the direction youâre going to go: forward. Do the same with your right, and set that hand on the ground. Now, your left hand will go on top to create a T-shape.â [M/n] demonstrated, bending to put his hands on the mat. âNow, watch and listen closely, this part is easy to mess up. Once your hands are on the ground, you're going to, essentially, lay down on your left knee, keeping your right foot in place, then press your left shoulder to the ground. When you press your shoulder to the ground, youâre going to round it so it is not digging into the mat. From there, you use your left foot to push you forward into a roll.â Once more, he demonstrated, easily pushing himself up to his feet. âI donât expect you to make it to your feet just yet. Youâll practice making it to your knees first, then weâll move from there. Does that make sense?â
âI think so. Can I try?âÂ
âGo ahead, Iâll be right here.â
Lloyd moved slowly, falling awkwardly onto his side and rearranging himself without [M/n]âs help. He did struggle to push himself off with his left foot, using the swinging momentum of his right foot to swing himself up, which ended up with him struggling to make it to his knees.Â
âVery good,â [M/n] praised. âThe muscle and strength to push yourself like I can, so do not worry about that just yet. Now, do it again on the opposite leg. This is all youâre going to be doing for the next half hour.â
âWhat?! Just this?!â
âJust this. Ukemi must be ingrained, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč, not just learned. I want it to become such a vital piece of your fighting that doing so takes no thought, you simply do. Do you understand?â
âI guess. Is it really that important?â
âVery important. Landing properly will keep your bones from being broken when youâre thrown or wrestled into the ground.âÂ
âOkay, I can do that.âÂ
âGood. Start.â
So Lloyd did. Back and forth he went, [M/n] correcting his form when he slipped or forgot how to do something. The longer he went on, the better he got, the more natural it came to him. When [M/n] finally called the training to a stop, Lloyd was practically drenched in sweat.Â
âYou did good, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â
âI did awesome!âÂ
âYou did, you exceeded my expectations. I thought it would take you longer to pick that up,â [M/n] praised. âNow, cool off stretches. Knee to chest stretches first.â
He helped Lloyd do the stretches, leading him through them.Â
âSo what do I get to learn next?â
âLevel 2 Ukemi.â
âWhat?! Again?â
âYes, again. That is the very basic version of Ukemi, and there are multiple different versions of it, to make controlled landings after different moves.âÂ
âDang it,â Lloyd grouched, flopping back onto the mat.Â
âGo take a shower, then you can watch your show and read your comics,â [M/n] said, waving Lloyd away. âIâm going to clean up.âÂ
âOkay.â
[M/n] found the broom in the closet in the kitchen, taking it to begin sweeping off the mat before wiping down the area theyâd used with diluted bleach. He was finishing up when Lloyd came running back out from the hallway, hair dripping as he bounced up onto the couch, turning on the tv.Â
Returning to their room, after he put the products away, he grabbed his book on Ninjaoan Mythology, settling down in the living room, on the couch. Lloyd, over the course of two episodes, slid across the couch to comfortably lean into his side. Smiling slightly, he carefully tucked Lloyd under his arm, making sure he was comfortable.Â
âAre you going to be hungry enough for lunch? Or would you rather have a snack?âÂ
âUmmm, I think just a snack.â
âFruit and honey sound good?âÂ
âYes.â Lloyd was partially distracted by his show.Â
Fondly shaking his head, [M/n] went back to reading, the show in the background fading into background noise. For another two hours he sat and read, until Lloydâs stomach grumbled.Â
âIâll make us a snack.â [M/n] stood, dislodging Lloyd who tipped over into his spot with a snicker. He took the fruit from the fridge, the cut up fruit from that morning, and the honey from the seasonings cabinet, filling a bowl of mixed fruits and drizzling the honey overtop. âYouâre not eating this on the couch.â
âAww.â
âCome sit.â
âBut thatâs boring,â Lloyd whined, sliding off the couch.
âYou think talking to me is boring?â
Lloyd popped up, blonde hair mussed, âNo! Thatâs not what I meant!â
âReally?â He spluttered, struggling to explain what he had meant as [M/n] turned away to hide his grin. âI am joking, (kid). Come eat.â
âThatâs not funny,â Lloyd scowled.Â
âIt is.â [M/n] chuckled, setting down the bowls of fruit and honey with forks for them to eat without making a mess. âNow, tonight, please do not make Jayâs life difficult, I know how easy it is to do.â
âAwww, but thatâs the fun part.â
âIt is, but I do not need to get home at midnight to find that you somehow started a prank war when we have no pranking supplies.â
âPffft, we have plenty of prank supplies.â
âLloyd.â
âFiiiinnnneeee. Can I still mess with him?â
[M/n] squinted, watching him closely, âAs long as it does not create a mess or break him.â
âYes!â
âEat your fruit, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â
They ate in peace, Lloyd returning to the couch once he finished as [M/n] washed the bowls.Â
âIâm going to take a shower and get dressed, yell if you need something.âÂ
âOkay.â
[M/n] headed back, climbing into the shower, allowing the heat to steam up the shower as he basked in the heat. Taking a loofa, he used the amber and sage body wash that Cole had picked up for him at the store, scrubbing at his skin until it felt raw. He didnât go farther, knowing he had to go to an interview, but, in all honesty, he wanted to just stand in the shower for the rest of the night and decompress. Hanging the loofah back up, he simply stood in the water, feeling the faint sting of the hot water.
When he stepped out, he wrapped the towel around his waist and lathered on the shaving gel before waiting a minute to let it settle in. Taking his double edged razor, carefully shaving downwards the first time, pausing to wipe the razor free of stubble, then up, then finally forwards, preferring to spend the extra time to make himself look nice.Â
Then he washed his face with a gentle cleanser, wiping his face clean. Finished, he applied the fancy Bay Rum aftershave Cole had also gotten for him, apparently he couldnât use anything else and had figured [M/n] would like it too. Satisfied, he got dressed.Â
Coming out of the bedroom, he found Jay flopped on the couch, face buried into the cushions. âInterview go badly?â
âNo,â Jay responded, muffled. He lifted his head up. âThe requirements are ridiculous! If I donât get a pizza to someone on time, three times in a row it comes out of my paycheck! And the place is in a weird spot too, so itâs gonna be even more difficult!âÂ
âYou got the job though, right?â
Jay groaned, dropping his face back into the cushions, Lloyd rolling his eyes.Â
âHe brought home a pizza for dinner. He said it was a meat lover's pizza.â Lloyd wrinkled his nose.Â
âWhich you will eat for dinner.â
âBleh.â
âÎαÎșÎżÎŒÎ±ÎžÎ·ÎŒÎÎœÎżÏ,â [M/n] murmured, shaking his head. He settled on the couch, beside Lloyd again. Jay then reached over and took the remote from the table, unburying his face from the cushions to change the channel. (Spoiled.)
âHey! I was watching that!âÂ
âYouâve had the tv all day, itâs my turn!â
âFSM,â [M/n] murmured, head falling back. âDo not start. Lloyd, Jay has a point, you have had the tv the entire time heâs been gone. But, you should not have changed the channel in the middle of his episode, you are the adult.â
Jay sulked, âFine, Iâll change it back. And then I get to change it to my show!â
Lloyd huffed, crossing his arms as he leaned back into the couch. He glared at Jay, giving [M/n] a similar look, only to get a raised eyebrow in response.Â
âIâm heading out early. Do not fight.â [M/n] stared them both down, before leaving. As he entered the elevator, he checked his wallet to make sure he had his new license.Â
The club was a good mile-and-a-half away, but [M/n] didnât mind the walk, the wind tagging along and keeping him cool. At one point he even saw a sign for the bar, Obelisk, selling a set of drinks - a âConquerorâ Cocktail made with Lemon Vodka, Velvet falernum liqueur, Green chartreuse, Lemon Juice, and Earl Grey, and a âBeastâ shot made with Absinthe, Melon Liqueur, and Peach Schnappes - with all of the proceeds going to the victims of those unhoused due the Great Devourer. It was admirable.
While it was early, the Bouncer was already sitting on a stool outside, a line forming already, but [M/n] had been sent a text that told him to skip the line and give his I.D. to the Bouncer. So he did just that, ignoring the grumblings from the people that could see him, showing the Bouncer his I.D. so it could be checked against his clipboard.Â
â4th Floor, Ms. Maena is waiting.â The Bouncer unclicked the rope to let him past, the grumblings turning into shouts and angry demands.Â
Inside [M/n] was stunned and startled by the opulence of the Obelisk. The deep blue marble floor had golden designs of flowers everywhere, with a massive wrap-around bar taking up an entire wall with nearly 150 seats - the same deep blue as the rest of the place. Several circular and wall booths were set up. The second floor had nicer booths and the DJ's booth with an elaborate, elegant double staircase with glass steps lit by gold lights.Â
A woman approached, smiling, âIâm guessing youâre Ms. Maenaâs next appointment. If you go up the staircase, thereâs an elevator and Basil will be waiting to take you up to the 4th floor, just make sure you show your I.D. to him.â
âThank you, Ms. . . . â
âJust Bluebell.â She laughed at his raised brow. âHere at the Obelisk we all have stage names to make it so we canât be stalked, since some people donât understand weâre flirting or being nice for better tips.â
âThen I guess I will keep my name to myself.â
She laughed again, âI hope you get hired. Youâre funnier than the others.âÂ
[M/n] offered a smile, setting off towards the stairs. Everywhere he looked he saw new details - on the tables, on the glass, on the floor, on the seats, on the bar. Behind the bar was the massive saltwater aquarium heâd read about - filled with clownfish, flame angelfish, auriga butterflyfish, lionfish, blue tang, 7 different species of shrimp, and a golden dwarf moray eel, with plenty of coral and rocks spread throughout the 300ft aquarium. He pressed the elevator button, still looking around.Â
The doors slid open, an older man resting on a stool within the elevator wearing a royal blue uniform, âHello, you must be Ms. Maenaâs 7âoâclock. Youâre a little early, sheâll appreciate that. Do you mind if I can see your I.D.?â
âOf course.â Once more he handed it over. Basil looked it over, checking it against a clipboard that was hanging up on the elevator wall.Â
âAlright, looks good. Come on, Iâll take you up.âÂ
[M/n] stepped inside, keeping his body relaxed as he took his I.D. back. âMs. Bluebell was saying everyone has âstage namesâ?â
âMs. Bluebell? Oh, that's a good one. But yeah, it was Ms. Maenaâs way of trying to make sure that it was harder to stalk us online. Since weâve opened weâve only had about 4 stalkers, and those guys tried to follow some of the girls to their cars but all the bouncers caught âem and the police charged âem.â
âThatâs good.â [M/n] had to admit, everything heâd read online and heard in person made Ms. Maena sound like a good person to work for, so he hoped the interview went well. The elevator came to a stop.
âWell, good luck, Mr. Kyo.â
âThank you, Basil. Which door is it?â
âLast door to the left."
[M/n] set off, pausing at the last door to adjust his hair and clothing. Taking a deep breath, he knocked.Â
âCome in.âÂ
Pushing open the door, [M/n] steeled himself for his interview. Which ended up being unneeded. Ms. Maena was already almost convinced to hire him because of his status as one of the ninja, and she wanted at least one other bartender who was capable of protecting himself and the others. After confirming he was a quick learner and would absolutely defend the other bartenders, she decided to hire him.Â
Surprised by how good the interview went, [M/n] left in a slight daze. He had expected more to the interview, expected to be interrogated since he didnât have a job history, but she had accepted his lack of knowledge around drinks and set him up for a week of shadowing other bartenders to learn - confirming that he would be making money - and that after the first two days, heâd likely be set up to handle the easier drinks.Â
He headed home, and that was the beginning of the cycle. In order to make sure they had the money to get groceries, he picked up as many shifts as he could, often taking the ones the others didnât really want.Â
By the time he got back, around 4 a.m. most mornings, he would stay up and make breakfast, eat and then head to bed by 5. Heâd wake up around 2 p.m., then train with Lloyd - mainly working on Ukemi, with some breaks to learn basic holds and how to escape them - before showering, eating dinner, relaxing for an hour or two before heading out.Â
It was easy enough, plastering on a false smile, dealing with difficult customers, walking out the other bartenders to their cars, and serving a variety of drinks after learning about them before the bar opened. He ignored the vulgar comments, unless they crossed a line - where he would then threaten them out of the establishment. And he made plenty in tips. Of course he did. [M/n] was a young man, fit and lean, and people seemed to think him quite cute.Â
This day was annoying due to an influx of entitled customers that believed they were owed free drinks, whether it was due to birthdays, jobs, or their parents. A few people even complained about the choice of music, which [M/n] had absolutely no control over. After serving a group of 18 year olds, identifiable by their bright red bracelets, virgin drinks, he heard a faint call of âBartender!â He gave the girls a smile, taking the 10$ tip one of them gave him.Â
He headed towards the call, surprised to see Shade leaning against the counter, piercing grey eyes watching him closely. A beanie was pulled low over his head, hiding his pointed ears, but those eyes couldnât be human - no pupil with very little white around the iris and thick black lines around his eyes, giving them an elongated look.Â
When he approached, Shade leaned over the counter to better be heard, âGuess both of us lied about not likinâ the city.â
âDonât have to like it to live here. I am surprised to see you in here,â [M/n] said, gesturing around the room. âWhat can I get for you?âÂ
âDalgona Martini, and a Big Apple Manhatten.â
[M/n] raised a brow, but nodded, making the Manhattan first before grabbing the items to make the whipped coffee topping and the base. âCan I ask what youâre doing here?â
âMakinâ a deal. Some rich woman with a grudge,â Shade answered, glancing at the closest customer who was two seats away. âYou?â
âStayinâ in town and needed a job. Bartending pays well.â
Shade hummed, glancing up to one of the TVs playing the different drinks the bar offered, watching the ad for the Conqueror and the Beast. âThat Devourer sure was somethinâ.â
âIt was.â [M/n] set the drinks down on the bar counter, pushing them closer. âHere are your drinks. I wish you luck in your endeavors.â
âThanks." The man slipped into the crowd, disappearing from sight with ease. However, he couldnât focus on it for long, his attention quickly taken by a different customer further down the bar.Â
His walk home that night was silent, but calm.Â
After making breakfast, scrambled eggs with smoked trout and crĂšme fraĂźche, [M/n] nearly collapsed into bed, though it took some time for him to fall asleep. But his sleep was odd, filled with flashes of . . . something. Darkness and flashes of bright purple, roiling like a mass of shadows. His sleep was interrupted just before his alarm was set to go off.Â
Lloydâs scream had [M/n] throwing himself to his feet and out the door. His chest burned. Racing into the living room he found Lloyd on one side of the couch with Skales halfway in the window, absolutely still now that he realized Lloyd was very much not alone.Â
Skales gulped, trying to backpedal as [M/n] crossed the room, grabbing him by the front of his blue leather cuirass and yanking him back into the room, tossing him down to the ground. Realizing he wouldnât be able to escape without fighting, Skales lashed out with his tail, slamming it into [M/n]âs chest to knock him back into the wall. Lloyd scrambled to get away, ducking into the connected kitchen with a worried call of [M/n]âs name.Â
Snarling, [M/n] lunged for Skales, slamming into him hard enough to send them both crashing onto the ground. Hissing, Skales snapped trying to bite [M/n] who braced a hand against his neck to keep him down.Â
The door rattled beneath someone's fist, startling everyone but [M/n] took the opportunity to grab the vase theyâd been filling with money and slam it over Skales head, knocking out the serpent. Quickly climbing to his feet, [M/n] crossed the room to put himself in front of Lloyd - taking note of his stance.Â
âLloyd! Whatâs going on in there?!â
âUncle!âÂ
[M/n] relaxed. He was quick to unlock the door for them, before Nya could try and break it down. The two rushed inside, pausing when they spotted the hole in the glass, the shattered vase, scattered money, and unconscious Skales.Â
Nya sighed, relieved, âIâll call the cops.â She stepped back out to do just that, Wu silently looking around.
âWhat happened?â
âI was watching tv, and he just started carving through the window. I didnât notice him at first, but when I did, I screamed and [M/n] came. He and Skales fought, and [M/n] kicked his butt! Pinned him to the ground and smacked the vase over his head to knock him out!âÂ
Wu glanced at [M/n], who nodded. âAnd where are the others?â
âAt their jobs.â
âJobs? For what?â
âTo afford this apartment.â
Wu blinked, bewildered. âTo afford the apartment? Why?â
âIt has an in-training facility and plenty of space,â [M/n] said, sighing as he scrubbed at his face, adrenaline fading. Nya returned not long after, two cops behind her. They were surprised to see a half dressed man, a knocked out Serpentine, an old man, and a child, but they quietly took Skales away.Â
Once they were gone, they were left to clean up the mess, but Nya stopped them, âWhy not teach the ninja a lesson?â
âA lesson?â Wu questioned, Lloyd perking up in curiosity.Â
âWell, they obviously havenât been doing their job since Lloyd was almost kidnapped. I mean, what wouldâve happened if [M/n] was working today too?âÂ
âLetâs do it,â [M/n] decided. âI didnât want to stay up here, and this proves why we shouldnât have. What do you have in mind, Nya?â
Nya smiled.Â
Nya and Lloyd hid in the pantry, [M/n] and Wu melting into the shadows of the living room with ease, all four of them waiting patiently for the ninja to return. It did not take long.
The door was violently flung open by Cole, the ninja rushing inside to find shattered glass and cash everywhere.Â
Kai cursed, rushing towards the bedrooms, âLloyd! [M/n]!âÂ
âLloyd is not here,â Zane realized.Â
âNeither is [M/n],â Kai said, returning from the bedrooms. He tugged at his hair, âOh, we shouldnât have left them.â
âWe shouldn't have taken those jobs in the first place. What were we thinking? How could we have left them alone? [M/n] was just as much a target as Lloyd,â Cole murmured, burying his face into his hands.Â
âYou are correct,â Wu agreed, stepping into the light as the ninja whipped around. âThis will be a lesson for you all to remember."
[M/n] stepped out as well, Nya and Lloyd walking out from the pantry. The ninja were visibly relieved when they spotted the two, unharmed and alive. Lloyd even leaned into [M/n]âs side, completely comfortable.Â
âLloyd! [M/n]!âÂ
âYouâre okay!â
âOf course I am. [M/n] was home.â
âIf I hadn't been, he could've been injured or kidnapped."
âSeriously, weâve been gone two weeks and Lloyd is nearly kidnapped. Again,â Nya said, rolling her eyes.Â
âLesson learned. We donât need all this fancy crap as long as we have each other. Weâll find some other way to make sure Lloyd is ready to face his dad,â Kai stated confidently, Lloyd dampening slightly at the reminder.Â
âYou want us to help you clean?â Wu asked.
âWell, we are a team.â
âNya, I think itâs time for another roadtrip.â
âHold on, I got a better idea,â Cole said. âWeâve got a place we can move to, right guys?â
âOh man,â Jay whined.Â
âLetâs get packing,â Nya laughed, bumping into Jay with her hip.Â
Everyone set to work, packing up the boxes theyâd only just unpacked, Nya going back to Patty Keys' workplace to get them the new key and turn in their old one, even managing to get back [M/n]âs money to put in for a month at the new place.Â
Carrying the boxes down to the new apartment, Cole shoved open the door with a flourish, "It's not much, but this one-bedroom, one-half-bath is a cozy dream. Who needs extras when everything is in arm's reach?" Nya and Wu both chuckled, helping move in the smaller boxes.Â
Lloyd came in with a chair, easily as tall as him, which made it difficult to see so he ended up running into Jay, who then dropped a box on Kaiâs foot. âHey!â
âOw, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow!"
âHa, feels like home to me. Hey, at least we get to stay in Ninjago City for a little while," Jay chirped, grinning as Kai glared at him.
âAnd, once we quit our jobs, we will have no more distractions and put all of our energy into training Lloyd,â Zane said, chuckling.Â
Lloyd, who had gone back to get another box, jumped when he felt some of the weight be lifted, making a noise of confusion. [M/n] chuckled, âJust me, ÏαÎčÎŽÎč.â Working together, they took the box of pots and pans into the little kitchenette, unloading everything into the lower cabinets.Â
"I know the Serpentine Generals got away, but you never told us: whatever happened to Skales?" Kai asked, pausing in unloading his clothes into the top drawer of the first dresser. [M/n] didnât answer, grinning sharply.Â
âOh, he found a home, too. But itâs not quite as roomy as here," Wu stated, making the four laugh.
Once their laughter calmed down, Nya asked, âSo what's the sleeping situation? There arenât enough beds for all of us.â
âI will stay on the floor,â Wu decided calmly.
âWha-Sensei, no, Iâll do it,â Cole volunteered, but he only shook his head.Â
âI have slept on far worse, I will be fine.â
âIâll share with [M/n],â Lloyd offered, happily. âCan we have a top bunk?â
âThen Iâll take the bottom bunk of the bed,â Nya said, grinning. With that, everyone settled down, exhausted.Â
Wu stayed up, meditating as [M/n] struggled to sleep, having gotten too used to being up at night. He was just starting to doze when he was abruptly startled, quickly straightening as he realized something was happening.Â
Wu straightened as well, eyes flashing gold, âI fear something has been released."
[M/n] reluctantly settled back down, quietly tucking Lloyd back into his side, staying up for another two hours before falling asleep.
For the weeks following the Devourers death they slept at Ed and Edna's â who had graciously offered up their home. Every day Edna would drive them down to the city so they could help with clean up since some of the destruction was their fault. During the day â as the five ninja cleaned up â Edna would watch over Lloyd, quite happily in all honesty.Â
Today, both Ed and Edna had taken the Jalopy so [M/n] took Lloyd up on Ara to give the ninja room in the car. Jay's parents took Lloyd over to the comic book store he adored while they finished setting up the last of the lampposts.
Wu and Nya were taking the day to see if they could find them a more permanent place to stay.
[M/n], Cole, and Jay worked to hold the last lamppost steady as Zane blowtorched the piece into place. Once finished they stepped back to proudly admire the street full of newly put up lampposts.Â
Kai stood behind them, trying to summon even a singular spark to his hands even though it had been several weeks since their Golden Weapons had been stolen, and so their elements had been unaccesable.Â
"Finally. All fixed up and Serpentine free," Cole said, running his fingers through his hair.
"Aargh. Ugh, this is frustrating," Kai complained, shaking out his hands as no fire came.Â
The lamppost creaked ominously before tipping over. [M/n] and Cole were quick to catch it before it fell as Jay scrambled over to help push it back up. Zane kneeled back down to torch it back in place.Â
"Our weapons are gone and most of our elemental powers are gone. I mean, we can still do Spinjitzu, but..." Kai grunted as his powers continued to falter. "I just feel so, I don't know, limited. And thanks to the Devourer, our tank's out of commission, our Dragon's hurt, the Bounty is destroyed, and we're bumming off of Jay's parents."
"Our elements were not only there because of our Weapons. We simply became too used to using them as crutches when we should have taken the time to practice without them," [M/n] lectured.
"No one ever said being a hero is easy," Zane added, flipping up his welding mask. "Though our good deeds may never make us rich, they make us rich in other ways."
"Yeah, well, I don't feel rich," Kai complained.
"I for one enjoy pitching in. I've always wanted to feel part of a community. Uh, speaking of which, anyone seen Nya? She said she was gonna help," Jay stated.
Nya pulled up on the old motorbike Ed had let her take and fix up, "And I have. I may have found us a place to live."Â
"Really? But there's a waiting list a mile long to live in Ninjago City. How did you do that?" Jay asked.
"I know a guy, who knows a girl, and she knows this girl who knows a guy. Well, this guy knows a girl who's a real estate agent and she can help you find a place, if you catch my drift," Nya stated, earning blank stares from [M/n] and Cole.
"And where are you off to?" Jay took the pamplet she passed him, glancing down at it curiously.
"We have to find a couple of components to fix the ninja tank. And my dragon ointment has finally arrived. It's a two week trip, but once we get back, he'll be flying again. Also, I love scenic drives. Haha, punch it, Nya!" Wu shouted, leaning over to see them.
"Ay ay, Sensei."
"Yee-haw!" Wu whooped as Nya shot off.
"Patty Keys, Real Estate Queen." Huh, this is exactly what we need. Once we get a roof over our head, we can start properly training Lloyd," Jay said, reading over the pamphlet.Â
"Good, 'cause if we know Lord Garmadon, he's not going to be taking any breaks. And let's not forget, the Serpentine are still at large," Cole reminded them.
"I'll pick up Lloyd then, and we'll meet you at this Patty Keys Estate place," [M/n] decided. Ara â without needing to be called for â landed on the street as carefully as he could so he didn't break anything.Â
He likely could have used his Nethercopter but it would have felt like gloating in front of the others and he did genuinly prefer flying with Ara.Â
The wyvern gracefully glided between the buildings, until they made it to Doomsday Comix, Lloyd's favorite store. Since landing would take to long, for the street was too small for Ara to simply drop in, he pushed off and fell, using Spinjitzu to soften the landing.Â
He got several stares of shock but he ignored them, simply heading into the comic shop. Passing by Mother Doomsday, he waved before heading towards the back corner where a reading area had been set up, complete with a couch, and beanbags. There he found Lloyd excitedly explaining the plot of Starfarer to Ed and Edna who were happily asking questions and encouraging him to continue.
[M/n] noticed how the young boy was practically glowing with the positive attention. Leaning against one of the shelves, he let Lloyd finish his explanation during which he noticed the two bags full of candy and comics at Edna's feet.
When Lloyd finally came to a stopping point, [M/n] spoke, "It looks like you've had a good day."
"[M/n]!" Lloyd shouted in delight, throwing his arms around his waist. "Did you see what Edna and Ed got me?"
"I saw. Lots of candy and comics. What a day, huh?"Â
"Yeah!"Â
Ed and Edna happily came over, smiling at the sight of the two. "You're back early, dearie. Did something happen?"
"Nya found us some places to take a look at, so I figured Lloyd should get to see them too. Thank you for watching him. And for buying him those comics and candy."
"Of course, son!" Ed chirped. "Oh, its been so long since we've had a young one around."
"Besides, he's a sweetheart," Edna cooed, lightly pinching his cheek as Lloyd smiled, reddening at the praise.
[M/n] smiled, leading them out to the Jalopy. "We'll come visit soon. Promise. I wouldn't want to deprive you of Lloyd's company."
"Oh, you jester," Edna laughed, squeezing [M/n]'s arm. "Well have fun! Hope you find a good place!"Â
The Jalopy pulled away as they waved, patiently waiting for them to turn the corner.Â
"Are we taking the Helicopter?" Lloyd asked.
"No, Ara's taking us."
"When will I get to fly my own dragon?" Lloyd asked, wartching with wide eyes as Ara carefully manuvered himself to the ground without destroying anything.Â
"Who knows, λÎčαÎșΏΎα. For now, you'll have to fly with Ara and I or Ultra."
Ara lowered his shoulder so they could climb up into the saddle before he carefully pushed off. He flew over the buildings as Lloyd cheered at the speed they were flying, white hair becoming a tangled mess.
Flying over the street where Patty Keys business was, [M/n] noted that no manner of manuvering would allow Ara to land without destroying several buildings. He leaned forward, bending down a little so Lloyd could hear him over the wind, "Do you trust me, λÎčαÎșΏΎα?"
"Yeah, why?" [M/n] could not help the warmth he felt at how easily Lloyd trusted him, no matter the things he'd seen.
"Hold on tight." Picking him up, he pushed Lloyd's head into the crook of his shoulder making sure the boy was holding on tight enough before he fell from Ara's saddle.Â
Lloyd yelped, a muffled sound, as they fell before [M/n] used his Spinjitzu to slow their descent and land. Patty Keys yelped, jumping back at their appearance making Lloyd grin as he was set down on the ground.
Scowling, she led them to a dilapidated apartment building. "This one-bedroom, one-half-bath is a cozy dream. Who needs extras when everything is in arm's reach? Now, wait until you see the lighting," Patty stated, flipping on the lights. The singular lightbulb flickered and died, falling to the ground. "Uh, who needs lights when you have this view? Heh." The curtains opened to reveal the brick wall of the neighboring building.Â
Lloyd wrinkled his nose. "Uh, why do I smell old people?"
"Look, doll. I'm trying to work around your budget. This is all you can afford," Patty snapped, annoyed. [M/n] stared her down until she became so nervous she couldn't hold their gaze.Â
"Uh, this looks . . . promising. Remember, guys, Sensei told us our main objective is to train Lloyd, not kick our feet up in some swanky suite. If this is all we can afford, this is all we can afford," Cole said.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, let's not rush into any decision. I mean, if it's really all about Lloyd, donât we need to live in some place that'll make training easier?" Jay asked, gesturing to the very tiny apartment.
"Yeah, Jay's right. If we have to get Lloyd ready to save Ninjago from his father, shouldn't he at least have his own room?" Kai questioned.
"Technically, that does not matter, he shared--" Zane began only for Jay to clap a hand over his mouth.Â
"We're only thinking about the children, hehe," Jay laughed, ignoring the look he was getting from [M/n].
"I do have another property that you'll just love," Patty said, smiling falsley. She led them over to a neighboring skyscraper made from titanium and glass.Â
The penthouse on the top floor was the prospective apartment she wished to show. It had massive windows stretching from the floor to the ceiling, with brand new furniture and newly painted walls.Â
"Whoa!"
"Oh man," Jay whispered, running a hand over a glossy wood side table.Â
"Now, this is the eight-bedroom Hero Suite. Floor-to-ceiling windows, digital wall television, state-of-the-art game console . . ." Patty explained, as the ninja got more and more excited.
"Uh, it seems a little out of our price range," Cole pointed out.
"Oh, sure it costs a little more, but you deserve it. I forgot to mention, there's also a Dragon keep on the roof," Patty added, gesturing above them.Â
"Nice," Kai whispered.Â
"Maybe we can get a hero discount. After all, we are the ninja who saved the city," Jay said, puffing out his chest a bit.
"I thought Lord Garmadon saved the city," Patty retorted.
"Where did he get the weapons to save the city? Who tangled the Devourer up so he could deal the killing blow?" [M/n] hissed, turning his gaze on her. "We helped Lord Garmadon, we are heroes just as he is."
Lloyd nodded, "Yeah!"
Patty scowled, but acquiesced, "Fine. A small discount."
"We could get day jobs to pay for the extra expenses," Kai said.
"We always said we could use a little more responsibility," Zane agreed.
"But we have to train Lloyd," Kai remembered.
"Did I mention the in-house training facility?" Patty asked.
"We'll take it!"
Zane stayed behind to fill out the needed paperwork while they all headed back to Ed and Edna's Junkyard to retrieve their meager belongings. On their way back, [M/n] stopped at a nearby conveniance store to pick up several newspapers that had ads for jobs within.Â
Once they had moved everything into their respective rooms, they piled onto the massive L-shaped couch to begin flipping through the newspapers. Lloyd, even though he didn't have to, squished himself against [M/n]'s side and tucked his feet under Cole's leg.Â
Jay found something first. "Ooh, Zane! I found a job for one of those restaurants that cooks in front of you. I bet they'd love your cooking!"
"Thank you, Jay." Zane could not hide the prideful smile.
"Do you think I'd be able to snag a job as a security guard?" Cole asked, reading through the job ad.
"If you listed out the styles of fighting, and your experience being a ninja then yes," [M/n] confirmed.
"I have two," Zane announced, cutting out the two ads. "One for a pizza delivery driver and one for a party entertainer."
He placed the two ads down on the table and Jay and Kai dove for them. Jay came out victorious, doing a happy dance with the delivery driver ad in hand while Kai sulked, glaring at the party entertainer ad.
"Have you found anything yet, [M/n]?" Zane asked.Â
"A bartending job. For the Obelisk, that new club that just opened."
"Don't you have to be 21 for jobs with alcohol?" Jay questioned.
"You do. I'll be back in a minute, need to make a phone call."
[M/n] stood up from the couch, ruffling Lloyd's hair as he stepped into the closed off, spacious kitchen. Pulling out his phone, he dialed the number he'd memorized over a year ago.
After he'd rescued Ronin during his search for the Tessens of Death he'd memorized his number for the favors he was owed.
"Who the hell is this?"Â
"Ronin. What a lovely way to answer the phone."
"[M/n]. I'm surprised to hear from ya'. Figured you'd pretend we weren't friends for awhile longer."
"We aren't friends. Acquantences, perhaps. And I'm calling in that favor you owe me."
"Was hopin' you'd forgotten 'bout that."
". . ." [M/n] hoped his silence was telling.
"Alright, alright. Geeze. No need ta' give me tha' silent treatment. What kinda favour do ya need?"
"I need papers forged. As well as a license."
"Like your a wanted man kinda papers or I want to buy alcohol papers."
"I want to sell alcohol as a bartender kind of papers."
"Ha! Seriously! Not a goody two shoes, huh?"
"Ronin."
"Alright, fine. So, license for, say, a 21 year old. Any thing else? Like a job history?"Â
"I'm a ninja. I don't have a job history and it'd be pretty suspicious if I had jobs I couldn't actually remember how to do."
"Fair enough. I'll have 'em ready by tomorrow night. Where do you-"
"Jamanakai Village. South Gate. I'll be waiting."
"Jamanakai, it is. See yaâ"Â
[M/n] hung up, heading back out to the living room. The sky had long since darkened so he made the decision that it was time for bed for he and Lloyd. Originally, Lloyd protested but he followed as told and happily took over the queen sized bed.
He sprawled violently, trying to take up as much space as he possibly could much to [M/n]'s amusement. Grabbing him by the ankle he tugged Lloyd back down to the edge with a yelp.
"Hey!"
"Change, λÎčαÎșΏΎα," [M/n] stated, dropping Lloyd's clothes onto the bed beside him. "Then bed."
"Fine."
[M/n] chuckled as he ducked into the connecting bedroom to change himself, so Lloyd could have the privacy of the bedroom. He waited until until he could hear Lloyd clamboring back into the bed before he joined him. Once settled, Lloud clung to him, no matter the space the bed provided.Â
When morning came, he asked Cole and Zane to watch Lloyd while he ran an errand. He warned them that it would likely take most of the day, and to not let Lloyd wait up for him.
"Why can't I come with you?" Lloyd asked, clinging to the front of [M/n]'s shirt to try and keep him there.
"The person I am meeting is not someone I wish for you to be introduced to. He is dangerous," [M/n] murmured, brushing a hand over Lloyd's white-blond hair.
"But if he's dangerous, you should have backup," Lloyd insisted.
[M/n] shook his head. "He is not dangerous to me. He owes me too much."
Lloyd watched him desperately, but [M/n] did not budge so he let go and stepped away. "Hurry back?"
"I will, λÎčαÎșΏΎα."
Instead of landing just outside of the Southern Gate, as he and the ninja normally did, he had Ara land in the forest to better hide. It would do no good if he was seen with a known mercernary, and deciever.Â
The forest around them was silent, especially compared to the village that was always bustling with activity during the day. [M/n] stayed in the saddle for a bit but sensed how restless Ara was becoming so he climbed off, allowing the wyvern to go off and hunt.Â
He took up post against a nearby tree, watching the southern gate. It took well over an hour for his attention to narrow to just the gate, all of his senses completely on the gate. Because of this he did not notice the ghost behind him, watching him.Â
The back of his neck tingled and he spun around, Tessens out but the blades still hidden in case it was a civilian. He was surprised to find Morro standing just a few feet behind him, staring with that infernal smirk on his lips.
"Surprised it took you that long to notice," Morro snarked, taking a step closer.Â
"I apologize for being too preoccupied to notice you," [M/n] teased, unable to stop himself for poking fun at the ghost. Morro laughed, a harsh sound that made [M/n] smile.Â
"Wow."
[M/n] couldn't help the way his smile fell, eyes wandering across the outline of Morro's ghostly greem form. "You told me you were dead. Not a ghost of the Cursed Realm."
"Howâ?" Morro cut himself off with a huff, shaking his head. "You always were so much smarter than I, or anyone, gave you credit for. I didn't tell you because it wasn't important. You were dying. You didn't need to hear of how I ended up after I left. My . . . Failures didn't need to affect what could have possibly been your death."
"How could your failures have affected my death?" [M/n] pushed, frustrated as Morro shook his head.Â
"It doesn't matter. I'm here now because I wanted to see you. After knowing you almost died . . . It took me a while to gather the energy to see you but I'm here now," Morro stated, completely bypassing the question. [M/n] recognized the tactic, but let it pass focusing on the other information given.Â
"You were that worried about me?"Â
Morro looked surprised by the question, eyes softening, "I always am. Even back then, I worried." He took a step closer, till they were nearly pressed chest to chest. "Ka noho koe i aku whakaaro nui atu i era atu mea." (You occupy my thoughts more than anything else)
"Te arero hiriwa," [M/n] responded, unable to hide the blush across his cheeks. Morro grinned, leaning down so their foreheads were pressed together. (Silver tongue)
"I aroha koe ki taku arero hiriwa," Morro teased, licking his lips an action that [M/n] tracked immediatley. (You loved my silver tongue)
"Kei te moepuku koe ki ahau?" (Are you flirting with me)
"Ko ahau ranei?" (Am I)
Morro leaned forward solidifying so they could press their lips together. [M/n] pressed a hand to Morro's chest, feeling the strange coolness as if he were pressing his palm against a solid wall of mist.Â
"I wareware ahau ki te reka o o ngutu," Morro rasped, pulling away. [M/n] didn't answer watching him softly, [e/c] eyes glinting in the light filtering through the leaves. "Ataahua." (I forgot how your lips tasted. Beautiful.)
"Kaore koe i haere mai ki konei ki te korero mo taku ataahua," [M/n] murmured, pulling away a bit more. (You didn't come here just to talk about how beautiful I am.)
"Kao, kaore au." (No. No, I did not.)
"Na he aha?" (Then why)
Morro didn't answer right away, face tight as a scowl formed, "Ka pa mai tetahi mea kino ka hiahia ahau kia whakawhirinaki koe ki to whekau, me o whakaaro. Ehara i te mea i korerotia ki a koe." (Something bad will happen and I need you to trust your gut, and your senses. Not what you're told.)
"He aha? He aha?" (What? Why)
"Karekau he patai. Oati mai ki ahau. Ka whakawhirinaki noa koe ki to whekau me to hinengaro ka tae mai te wa." (No questions. Just promise me. You'll only trust your gut and senses when the time comes)
"Ka oati ahau." (I promise)
Morro breathed a sigh of relief, an odd thing considering he had no lungs as a ghost. "Pai." (Good) Both of them turned when they heard a vehicle land nearby.
He dissappeared as easily as he appeared, leaving [M/n] murmur his own goodbye to the open air. Ronin slipped out from the forest into the clearing barely minutes later.Â
"Early, I see," Ronin commented, adjusting his red rice hat. "So, how's your days been? What with all this Great Devourer business happenin' in Ninjago."
"Don't pretend to care, Ronin. Just give me the papers," [M/n] said, not in the mood for his mind games.Â
Shrugging, Ronin pulled them from the satchel at his side, "So, is that all you needed me for?"
"Yes."
"Good. Then my debt is repaid in full."
[M/n] scoffed, "No, it's not. I saved your life, forging me a license is nothing in comparison. You owe me a second favor, a small one. And then I won't ask for any more."
"Now hang on, do you know how hard it is to forge a good license that'll hold up under most scrutiny? And it cost a pretty penny," Ronin refuted.
"You have plenty of money, Ronin and I saved your life. No matter how hard it is, it is little compared to your life."Â
"Fine. Pleasure doin' business with ya, [M/n]," Ronin sneered, turning away and grumbling to himself. From the clearing he heard Ronin's tell tale whistle, calling for R.E.X. before the man left.Â
Ara returned as well, stepping out from the woods with his maw still smeared with blood. [M/n] huffed, a small smile forming at how messy his dragon was.Â
"Let's get back, Ara. Night will fall soon."Â
Huffing, the wyvern crouched so [M/n] could climb up into the saddle. In two powerful beats of his wings, Ara climbed above the forest and into the sky.Â
The trip back was longer, only because they were not in a hurry to return. Night had fallen by the time Ara landed on the roof of the penthouse. One of Ultra's heads lifted, crooning in greeting which Ara responded with a happy croon of his own.Â
[M/n] climbed down, running a hand through Ara's feathers before offering Shard a few scratches along the ridge above his eyes, following the blue marking as he purred in delight.
Slipping into the penthouse, he was only a little surprised to see Cole and Lloyd passed out on the couch, with Lloyd tucked against Cole and a blanket wrapped around them. Zane rounded the kitchen counter with a cup of tea in hand, "They only passed out an hour ago. Lloyd was worried."
"I didn't mean to worry him, I just needed to pick something up."Â
Zane noticed the tense line of his brothers shoulders, "I can help you remove Lloyd from Cole, if you wish to take him to bed."
"That would be appreciated, Zane, thank you."Â
Together they gently began pulling Lloyd away from Cole, who gave a sleepy hum tightening his grip and peering up at them sleepily. He relinguished his grip on Lloyd once he realized who was standing above him, relaxing back into the couch. Lloyd grumbled, unhappy to be moved, but sank into his chest once settled into [M/n]'s arms.
"Thank you, Zane. I'll see you in the morning."Â
"Of course. Good night, [M/n]. I shall see you in the morning."Â
[M/n] headed down the hall to the furthest room, using his foot open the door before kicking it shut behind him. Carefully he set Lloyd down on the bed so he could change into pajama's. Once changed he carefully climbed into bed, chuckling to himself when Lloyd tried to cling to him making it difficult to lay down.Â
KhĂȘlai formed, perching on the board at the bottom of the bed, watching them with luminous orange eyes.Â
His sleep was uneasy, waking every once in a while to check on Lloyd and make sure he was alright.Â
He finally woke up completely when Lloyd burrowed closer, tucking himself into his chest. Humming he ran his hand through Lloyd's hair, "Mornin' λÎčαÎșΏΎα," [M/n] rasped.
"Good morning." Lloyd hid his blush before remembering something from the night before, during the movie he'd watched with Cole. "What's a crush? The movie Cole had me watch last night talked about crushes, but I don't- I didn't understand what they were talking about."
"A crush? Well, a crush is when you like someone, you know." [M/n] wasn't quite sure how to explain it when he'd kind of naturally realized what it was to have a crush.Â
"How do you get a crush? And what does it mean when you like someone?"
"You can get a crush at any point, λÎčαÎșΏΎα. But when you like someone, you care about them and you like the qualities that make that person them. So, maybe you like their smile, their laugh, their eyes. Anything, really," [M/n] explained.
Lloyd looked up curiously, "Have you ever liked anyone?"Â
"I did. And I loved him too."
"Really? Who was it?"
"His name was Morro. He . . . He died a long time ago, λÎčαÎșΏΎα."
"Oh. I'm sorry."
"Its fine. Honestly, I don't really even remember it. I just know he's dead."
Lloyd tucked himself back into [M/n]'s chest, so they stayed in bed for a good ten minutes lounging in the early morning. Remembering the others all had their interviews that day so [M/n] climbed out of bed, forcing Lloyd to follow after him.Â
Taking over the kitchen, [M/n] made Shakshuka a healthy meal to give the others some energy for their interviews. While he worked on it he called the Obelisk to schedule an interview for the bartending position.Â
Lloyd watched from the counter, barely paying attention as he tried not to fall back asleep. He woke up when a plate was put in front of him, but instead stared down at the plate unsurely. He'd never seen anything like it so he was unsure of if he really wanted to try it.Â
Jay flopped down into the chair beside him, partially dressed and surprisingly awake for it being early. Once the plate of shakshuka and croissants was placed in front of him, Jay dug into it excitedly, stuffing his face as quickly as he could. Lloyd had noticed how picky Jay could could be when it came to food, so seeing him devour it made him a little curious.Â
He took a bite and was surprised by the burst of flavors, so he happily took another one, nearly choking as he shoveled more and more into his mouth. Coughing, he earned a sharp look from [M/n], "Don't eat like Jay. His eating habits will kill him, don't let them kill you."
"Ma ephting . . . habits will not kill me," Jay stated, swallowing halfway through his sentence. He got a blank stare from [M/n] before the teen turned back to Lloyd.Â
"Eat slower. If you want seconds you'll have to ask after everyone else gets a plate."
Zane arrived next, already dressed and prepared for his interview. Kai followed, stumbling out from his room with hair flopping into his face since it hadn't been gelled up yet. Cole eventually followed, half dressed and following the smell of breakfast.Â
Their attitudes changed as plates were pushed in front of them. Cole began shoveling the food into his mouth like he was starving, while Kai took large uncivilized bites but at least wasn't spraying food everywhere. Zane was one of the only people who ate like a civilized person.Â
After breakfast, they showered and dressed before leaving one after the other, leaving the penthouse to [M/n] and Lloyd.Â
"Lloyd. Go change into something loose enough to fight in."Â
"Huh? Fight in? You're teaching me to fight?!"Â
"Just a defensive move. Now go."Â
Lloyd ran back into their shared room where [M/n] could hear him digging through their drawers in search of clothes. He came crashing back down the hallway in a pair of shorts and a plain t-shirt, skidding to a stop in front of [M/n].Â
"Now, like I said I'll be teaching you a defensive move today," [M/n] stated, pressing the button to open the door for the training room. The large space was covered in mats with training dummies lined against the wall. "I'm going to teach you everything I learned, in the order I learned it. So we'll work on defense first until you have a stable base to begin working on offense."
Lloyd pouted, before realizing he would still eventually learn fighting moves, "So what move are you gonna teach me? Does paralyzing an enemy with a touch count as a defensice move?"
"You could debate that with Zane," [M/n] mused. He dragged a dummy away from the wall, placing it on the center of the mats. "First, I'll show you how its done both in real time and slowed down then you can practice on the dummy. When you feel confident enough you can practice it on me."
Lloyd stopped moving completely, staring at him, "I can practice it . . . on you?"
"When you feel confident enough, yes."
"Cool!"Â
"Alright, come here."Â
"What do I do?"Â
"I'm going to show you how you should grab your opponent then I'll show you the move in real time," [M/n] explained, positioning Lloyd manually. "Grab the dummies right wrist with your left hand . . ."
The entire morning was spent with [M/n] teaching Lloyd the hip throw, and making sure he had the move down as best he could. Unfortunately, Lloyd did not get the confidence to try it on [M/n] but he was unsurprised. They took a break to eat and drink a simple lunch, before [M/n] taught him cool down stretches so he didn't hurt himself.Â
For a while they relaxed, well [M/n] relaxed and Lloyd explored the entire penthouse out of curiosity. After a while Lloyd settled down to watch tv while [M/n] got up to make dinner for everyone.Â
He plated everything for everyone before going back to their room to shower and dress for his own interview. By the time he came back out, everyone had arrived and was sitting at the kitchen table eating.Â
Joining them, [M/n] listened to their talk of their jobs and how they thought the interview had gone. By the time they'd finished eating it was time for [M/n] to leave so he'd make it on time for his own interview.Â
"Be good for them," [M/n] mumured to Lloyd, pressing a kiss to the top of his head as he passed by. The club was close enough that he felt comfortable enough walking.Â
The bouncer let him in easily enough, checking him off a second, smaller list and sending him up to the third floor to talk to the owner. The interview itself was short and simple, mostly questions about how well he worked within a team.
He returned to the penthouse, unable to do anything but wait for a phone call to see if he'd make it. When he did eventually get the call back, confirming that he got the job, he began setting up shifts for opening since he did not wish to be out too late.Â
And so the cycle began. Every day he'd wake up in the morning to make breakfast for everyone, practice with Lloyd for a little bit before napping for most of the day until Zane woke him after making dinner so he could eat and then he was off to the club.Â
Day after day at the club he would plaster on a charming, fake, smile and serve customers whatever drink they wished, ignoring the vulgar and unwanted comments with grace and taking his well deserved tips.Â
This particular day was simply exhausting because of the people around him, including the ninja who had all come so tired that he'd had to wake up early to make them all dinner. At the club, several women and men were quite insistant as they flirted with him, no matter how many times he brushed them off.Â
Several phone numbers had been pushed his way â conveniantly ending in the trashcan beneath the counter on accident â and complaints of service, not always his and sometimes complaints about things he didn't even deal with, were yelled across the counter.Â
"Bartender!" A low raspy voice called. He acknowledged the call with a nod, passing a woman her drink as she giggled flirtasiously, passing him a 5 dollar tip much to his pleasure. To thank her, he flashed her a sharp smile, flashing the peak of fangs that had her flushing brighter.Â
Turning, he moved down the bar to find Shade staring back at him, a slight smirk ticking up his lips. "I'm surprised to see you in Ninjago. You didn't seem to care for the city much when we talked."
"It's been over a year. Things change. It is good to see you again, Shade," [M/n] stated, glancing to the side when he felt eyes on him. "What can I get for you?"
"A mint julep, if ya don't mind. So, what are you doing here?"
"Had some business in town and needed a job to hold a place."
Shade's eyes glinted, flicking up to the tv and commenting, "That Devourer sure was somethin'. Saw it on TV. Watching all that shit happen was bad, but at least I wasn't here."
"It was horrible."Â
"Well, then. Hope you're doin good. Think we can keep in contact while you're in town?"Â
"Yeah. It'll be good catching up with you, Shade." He wrote out his number on a napkin, handing it and his drink over to the Elemental Master who slipped back into the crowd.Â
[M/n]'s walk home was silent.
He slipped into the bed beside Lloyd, tucking himself around him protectively. Sleep came to him in short waves, keeping him through most of the night. That made it difficult for him to wake up and make everyone breakfast.Â
Based on his sluggish movements, he doubted he'd be up to training Lloyd today. Lloyd was a little upset about that but when he saw the bags beneath his eyes he relented.Â
Heading back to the room, he planned on taking a long nap while Lloyd played on the tv. He passed out pretty quickly and only awoke when the warmth in his chest jolted violently.Â
Lloyd's screams had him throwing himself out of the bed and flying down the hallway, Tessens in hand. Skales was halfway through the window, looking smug until he noticed the purple ninja coming his way.Â
Skales felt his heart pick up its pace as he saw the bared canines and the wild, furious look in his eyes.Â
"Skales."
The Serpentine tried to back away but the only way to go was back through the window. Snarling, [M/n] lunged, kicking Skales head to knock him out.Â
Both jerked when the door rattled beneath the force of someones fist, spinning towards it. Lloyd settled into the stance [M/n] had shown him, and he could not help the pride he felt.Â
Stepping front of Lloyd, [M/n] prepared himself for another enemy.Â
"Lloyd! What's going on in there?"Â
"Uncle!" Lloyd cried in relief. [M/n] unlocked the door for them before Nya could break it down, allowing the two to rush inside.Â
If either was surprised to see Skales knocked out on the ground, surrounded by glass and cash, they didn't show it.Â
"I'll call the cops," Nya said, already pulling out her phone.Â
It was a pretty quick visit from the cops, taking less than a half hour to take their statements and haul Skales away to the station.Â
"So, who wants to teach the ninja a lesson?" Nya asked once they had all left.Â
"What kind of lesson?" Wu questioned, raising an eyebrow. [M/n]'s eyes glinted as Lloyd nodded, always excited to prank people in the name of teaching them lessons.Â
Nya and Lloyd both hid in the closed off kitchen while Wu and [M/n] melted into the shadows of the living room to wait. It did not take long.
The door was violently flung open by Cole, all four running inside in distress.Â
"Lloyd! [M/n]!" Kai shouted, spotting the shattered glass and scattered cash along the floor.
"Lloyd is not here. And neither is [M/n]," Zane realized.
"Oh, we shouldn't have left them," Kai said, tugging at his hair.
"We shouldn't have taken those jobs in the first place. What were we thinking? How could we have left them alone? [M/n] was just as much a target as Lloyd," Cole pointed out.
"You are right," Wu agreed, stepping out into the light. "This will be a lesson for you all to remember."
[M/n] followed, barely a step behind as Nya and Lloyd came out of the kitchen. The ninja were visibly relieved by the sight of them, unharmed and alive. Lloyd happily tucked himself back into [M/n]'s side.Â
"Lloyd! [M/n]!" Everyone cried in relief.
"You're okay!"
"[M/n] was home. I was always going to be okay," Lloyd stated confidently, embarressing [M/n] a little.
"If I hadn't been, he could've been injured or kidnapped."
"Seriously, we're gone two weeks and you guys fall apart," Nya said, rolling her eyes.Â
"Well, I guess we don't need all this fancy crap. Just each other," Kai stated. "Lesson learned."
"You want us to help you clean up?" Wu asked in amusement.
"Well, we are a team."
"Nya, I think its time for another roadtrip."
"Hold on, I got a better idea," Cole said. He directed everyone around the apartment, packing up their things while Nya handled the changing of apartments with Patty Keys.Â
Carrying everything downstairs and across the sidewalk to the apartment block where Cole gave Nya and Wu the same spiel Patty had given them. "It's not much, but this one-bedroom, one-half-bath is a cozy dream. Who needs extras when everything is in arm's reach?"
Everything was piled outside the door before they got the key, so now they were working on getting all of their belongings into the apartment.Â
Lloyd came in with a chair at one point, large enough that he couldn't see past it very well, and ran into Jay who dropped a box onto Kai's foot, "Hey!"
"Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow!"Â
"Ha, feels like home to me. Hey, at least we get to stay in Ninjago City for a little while," Jay chirped, grinning as Kai glared at him.
"And now without the distractions, we can put all of our energy into training Lloyd," Zane agreed.Â
[M/n] grabbed the other side of the box Lloyd was carrying, startling him. He calmed once he realized it was just [M/n] and they carried the box of pots and pans over to the small kitchenette.Â
"I know the Serpentine Generals got away, but you never told us: whatever happened to Skales?" Kai asked, sitting down on the bunkbed he'd claimed.
[M/n] grinned, sharp and threatening.
"Oh, he found a home, too. But itâs not quite as roomy as here," Wu stated, making the four laugh.
They split the bunks as they had on the Bounty with Nya taking the bed beneath [M/n] and Lloyd, who were sharing. Wu set up a simple futon on the ground, settling in to meditate as everyone went to bed, exhausted after the day they'd had.
Lloyd passed out pretty quick, while [M/n] slowly dozed off until he was forced awake as something happened.
Wu straightened, eyes flashing gold, "I fear something has been released."
[M/n] settled back down wearily, curling around Lloyd defensively, tucking the boy more securely against his front.Â
âSensei,â Kai croaked, watching the Great Devourer lean back, shaking her head as if the bite had disgusted her. None of them moved, too shocked and horrified.Â
âOh FSM,â Jay whimpered, trembling. [M/n] forcibly unhooked Lloydâs fingers from his GI, movements hidden by Coleâs bulk, shoving the boy back towards Nya, who lifted him up into her cockpit in understanding. However, the movement of her brightly colored mech seemed to catch the Devourerâs acidic violet gaze, her long sinuous neck twisting as she observed them. âOh, maybe if we stand perfectly still . . .â
âRUN!!â [M/n] commanded, yanking Jay into motion just as the Great Devourer lunged for them with no warning. Nya took off, stuffing herself back in the cockpit with Lloyd. The Devourer slammed into a statue that had been behind the group, shrieking in pain as they raced back through the streets towards the Bounty.Â
[M/n] continued to nearly drag Jay along as he struggled to get his feet back beneath him, screeching, âDonât drop me!!â When he finally managed to get his feet under him, he was released and immediately took off, outpacing the rest of them with ease.Â
Behind them the Devourer came after them, muscles propelling her across the sand though she seemed to be struggling to move from her time spent underground. [M/n] purposefully hung back, letting the others climb up the chain first, even though he had no chance at holding her off â to him, those numbers did not matter, their safety did. He hurried after them, having little issue climbing up the chain after the others as the Devourer fell behind.Â
Already at the Bridge, Nya and Lloyd were already working on getting the Bounty ready to move, the ninja filing into the room, panicking.
âUh, hate to tell you this, but objects in the mirror are closer than they appear," Jay said, having run right to the wall with the smaller, circular window to watch the Devourers approach.Â
âWorking on it,â Nya snapped. [M/n] crossed the room to hover over Lloyd, allowing him room to move around to continue readying the Bounty. Lloydâs shoulders relaxed minutely. âBlasters on full.â
âOn it.â Lloyd pushed the lever forward all the way, the Bounty lurching into motion beneath them. The other four ninja cheered, Cole sweeping Zane and Kai into a tight hug.Â
âWoo-hoo! Take that, you æè ąçè!â Kai whooped, only to earn a howling, demonic shriek from the Devourer.  (Stupid snake!)
âOh FSM, I think it heard you,â Jay whimpered, trembling.
âNya, we gotta go faster,â Kai urged. âThat thing is gaining on us! And fast!â
âWeâre going as fast as we can. Iâll try to make it to Scattered Canyon.â
âProbability of us making it that far is less than 8 percent.â
âNever tell me the odds!â Nya pushed the Bounty to go faster, but she could only do so much.Â
âItâs coming in for another attack, port side!â Cole warned, Nya swerving the Bounty violently to dodge the lunge.Â
âWeâre losing speed!â Lloyd cried. âWeâll drop down to the ground pretty soon!â The jerking was grinding the Bountyâs gears, and they were losing power quickly.Â
âThrow everything overboard!â Nya commanded, earning gobsmacked looks.Â
âWhat?!â
âWe need to lose some weight!â
âPort side!â Lloyd yelled. Once more they violently swerved, [M/n] bracing his palms on the console to keep Lloyd from being knocked down, while the ninja stumbled out the door onto the deck.Â
Once the Bounty leveled out, [M/n] looked out the circular window himself. He watched as the Great Devourer began eating the supplies that were thrown overboard.Â
With a dawning sense of horror, he watched as she shuddered, suddenly growing in size, âÎαΌÏ!âÂ
âWhat? Whatâs wrong?!â Lloyd looked afraid, glancing Nyaâs way. When she saw his eyes, she tried to smile, but she was just as worried.Â
[M/n] ignored her, rushing to the doorway, âCole! Stop throwing things overboard! The more she consumes the bigger she grows!âÂ
Cole paled, immediately turning to echo his warning, âDon't throw anything else overboard!"
Nya shouted out, âWe made it to Scattered Canyons! Hold on!âÂ
âWe lost her!â Cole called, relieved as he looked over the railing in search of the Devourer.Â
She burst forth from the sand, propelling herself into the air to tear the port side engine free to swallow it whole. The sudden movement tipped the Bounty, leaving it unbalanced. [M/n], outside the door to the Bridge, was thrown off balance and nearly thrown from the deck. He barely managed to grab onto the railing, hissing in pain when he flipped over it, shoulder nearly popping out of place and his burn scars stretched painfully.Â
The Devourer noticed the sudden movement, purple eyes glinting in delight before she lunged, fangs barely missing the ninja as the ship righted, [M/n] using that momentum to flip himself back onto the deck. Panting slightly, he used the wall to get back to the Bridge, moving quickly, even as the ship tilted again. Once inside, he found Lloyd clinging to the table, Nya to the wheel and hurried to get inside before Lloyd could lose his grip. Yelping fearfully, Lloyd lost his grip, falling right into [M/n]âs arms.Â
âWe need to go, Nya!â Nya looked back at [M/n] desperately, not wanting to abandon her home, but he shook his head. âWe have to go!âÂ
Letting go of the wheel, she fell down beside [M/n], who grabbed her arm to support her before helping pull them out of the Bridge, âAbandon ship!â
âNya!â Kai yelled, frantically reaching for his sister.
âGo! Iâve got my mech!â She summoned her mech with a push of a button, [M/n] leaping over the railing and summoning the Nethercopter. He held Lloyd close, directing the copter towards a rock outcropping, the others following her lead. All their vehicles disappeared, except for Nyaâs Mech, allowing the team to rush into the outcropping, out of the sand and hidden from sight. It was a small shelter, but enough for the moment.
They all watched with baited breath as the Bounty began to careen towards the ground, waiting to see it burst into flames. Only for the Devourer to, once more, burst forth from the sand to sink her massive fangs and serrated teeth into the wood of the ship, completely crushing it.Â
âNOOO!!!!â
[M/n]âs heart plummeted watching his second home be destroyed. His mind was stuck on the collection of pieces that linked him to his past, that had belonged to Morro. Lloyd was cradled close, face tucked into his chest so that he did not have to see his home being destroyed.Â
With one last shake of her head, the Devourer slid off.Â
âNon c'Ăš piĂč,â Cole croaked, tears pooling in his eyes. Everyone sat down or leaned against the rock wall, staring blankly into the distance or at the ground, processing everything. (It's gone.)
Kai tried to break the tension, âOh, that was too intense. All that action makes you so thirsty.â He tried to hide the tremble of his hands by fiddling with his belt.Â
âThere is no time to rest. We need to warn people before it becomes bigger,â Zane stated, glancing out towards the dunes and destruction.
âBigger? Bigger!? That thing in one big bite crushed our entire ship! We need to save as many as we can. Uh, uh, we'll find some kind of refuge, somewhere safe to hide. Ooh, the Serpentine Tombs. Yeah, they're underground. Sure, we'll be without sunlight for months, but they're perfect,â Jay ranted, pacing around the small area as his hands frantically flapped.
âAnd what? Just give up?" Cole asked, offended.
âYou know as well as I do, we have no chance at stopping that thing!"
âHey, stop it! Listen to yourselves. Is this what Sensei Wu would've wanted? Us fighting? Running and hiding? Giving up?" Kai pushed the two apart before they could argue any further.
âBut . . . but heâs not here anymore,â Lloyd whispered, bowing his head. [M/n] stayed silent.Â
âBut his teachings live on. Sensei once told me it's not the size of a ninja in a fight, it's the size of the fight in the ninja. All this training, all of these battles we've had with skeletons and Serpentine. We've persevered through so much, we can't just give up now. A ninja never admits defeat. A ninja always picks himself up when he is down. Which is exactly what Sensei Wu would want us to do right now," Kai reminded them, standing tall.
âBut how do we destroy a snake of that magnitude?" Zane asked.Â
âYeah, it's not like we have an extra Sacred Flute lying around to charm it. Or wait, haha, how about one of our awesome Dragons? Oh, I forgot. They took off and left us high and dry. Or, hey, what about our Golden Weapons? Which will do nothing against a snake that size. Heh, oh, we are so hooped," Jay laughed, burying his face in his hands. Nya sighed, patting his back.Â
âJayâs right. We would need a weapon big enough to take it down,â Cole agreed.
âOr an idea that's even bigger! Ha! Jay, you're a genius! You thinking what I'm thinking?" Kai was already walking out of the outcropping, even as the others shared confused looks.Â
âProbably not, but go ahead,â Jay mumbled, waving him to continue.Â
âThere's no time. I'll fill you guys in on the way.â Kai summoned his Blade cycle, tearing off, leaving everyone to scramble after him, Nya even tripping as she scrambled into the Mech. [M/n] hurried Lloyd out of the outcropping, summoning the Nethercopter and giving him a moment to climb in before taking off - moving completely on autopilot.Â
âWhaâWhere are we going?" Jay asked, flying beside [M/n].Â
âWe're going to destroy that snake once and for all."Â
âThat doesnât tell us anything,â Cole complained.Â
Kai rolled his eyes, âYou saw how hungry it was, right? And it was already kind of heading towards Ed and Ednaâs Junkyard, so if we can get it there first, we can fight it off.â
âWith what weapon?â Zane asked, curiously.Â
âOne we make. I think Iâve got an idea, but Iâll have to sketch it out,â Kai admitted.Â
âDo we have to lead it right to my parents?!â
âWeâll protect both of them,â Nya reassured. âRight, [M/n]?â Nothing. â[M/n]?â
[M/n] startled, âRight.â Lloyd, sat in the copilot's seat, was frowning as he watched the older ninja.Â
Off comms, he reached over to grab onto the edge of his purple GI, â[M/n]?â
âYes?â
âAre-are you okay?âÂ
âI-â The silence stretched on. âI am fine. You do not need to worry about me.â
Lloyd wasnât stupid. And he was pretty observant. He knew the other was lying, but he had no idea how to broach the subject, or how to point that out without being shut down.Â
They all landed in the junkyard, vehicles disappearing.Â
âYou had a point. This place is a full-on buffet,â Cole agreed, sliding his scythe back into his sheath.
Jay pushed past them to hurry up to his parents trailer, knocking impatiently and rapidly. When no one answered, he slumped in relief, âLooks like my parents are gone."
âAll the better for us,â Kai said, laying out the sheet of blueprint paper Nya had pulled out on the hood of an abandoned truck. Using a pen, he began to sketch out his idea, everyone crowding around to see his idea come to life. Jay came bounding back towards them, leaning over to see.
Jayâs eyes widened, âWoah, itâs so cool.â
âHe hasnât even finished yet,â Cole teased, bumping him in the side. Lloyd tried to squeeze between them to see what was being drawn with them all crowded around such a small area, so he tugged at the edge of [M/n]âs GI. It took a few tugs, but the ninja took a step back, giving Lloyd the space to balance on the grills, before sliding closer so Lloyd could lean back against him. Glancing up, Lloyd noticed the blankness.
When Kai actually finished the blueprint, he pushed it away to spread it across the hood for everyone to get a better look.Â
âSee. It is cool.â
âDefinitely.â
âZane, you still have a recording of the Sacred Flute in your memory bank?â
âIt might've been destroyed earlier, but I have its exact tone recorded and ready for playback," Zane confirmed, playing back the sound in example.
âGood. And there should be enough spare parts around here to build this whopper. But we're gonna need to create our biggest Tornado of Creation yet. This is gonna be dangerous and we can't have anyone around." The last part was directed at Nya, Lloyd, and [M/n].
Even being an Elemental Master, [M/n] could not participate in the Tornado of Creation due to the fact that his Element tended to tear apart and break things down, interrupting the process of creation. That had been figured out through curious experimentation, that ended up needing a lot of cleaning.
Before anyone could move, the Postman entered the junkyard whistling a jaunty tune. Everyone slowly turned their heads around.
âWhat is he doing here?â Cole asked, hurrying towards the Postman with Kai. Jay, Nya, and Zane were more focused on the conversation, moving closer to listen in, so Lloyd took the opportunity to try and talk to [M/n].
âAre you upset about Sensei? Or the Bounty?âÂ
[M/n] blinked, startled out of reverie, gaze dropping down to Lloyd since heâd been looking into the distance, âWhat?â
âAre you sad because of Sensei? Or the Bounty?âÂ
âI . . . I guess it is both,â [M/n] murmured, Nya glancing back before sending Jay to Cole and Kai like a child. âSensei . . . has always been a constant in my life, from before my coma and after. And the Bounty is now the second, if not third home I have lost, but I have . . . had several items that linked me to my past, to someone I cared for.â
âAll that stuff in your chest?â [M/n] raised a brow. Heâd never shown Lloyd what was within the trunk, nor given him permission to look within. âSorry.â
âIt is fine. But yes, the stuff in the trunk. It was important to me.âÂ
âIâm sorry, [M/n].â
âIt is not your fault.âÂ
âBut it is. I let Pythor out. If I hadnât done thatââ
âEnough. Have I not told you many times that you were a child who made a mistake? And now weâre fixing that mistake.â Lloyd slumped, leaning forward to hug [M/n] who accepted the affection, resting a hand on the back of his head. In all honesty, he took comfort from the affection as well.Â
The moment was ruined when [M/n] stiffened, head snapping around to look at the entrance. Out in the distance, there were faint clouds of sand being sprayed up. The Great Devourer. âWe need to move. Now!âÂ
Nya followed his gaze, her own eyes going wide, âOh shit. Guys!âÂ
Zane hurried towards the other three, [M/n] quickly herding Nya and Lloyd towards two welded together cars that created a small, protected space, shoving them down to hunker protectively over them.
The Postman, seeing their reactions, had spun around to see what was happening. âAaaaah!!!! S-s-snake!!!â He was quick to throw himself into an empty car, hunkering down fearfully.
âIt's now or never, guys! Ninja, go! Fire!"
"Earth!"
"Lightning!"
"Ice!"Â
Scraps of metal were tugged past them, sucked into the tornado, [M/n] digging his boots into the ground for traction as the winds tugged at them as well. For a long minute they were forced to endure whipping sand, brutal winds, and scrap metal flying past them, a few smaller pieces nearly slicing through skin had they not all been scrunched up as they were, protecting their faces.Â
When everything finally settled, the three sat up to better see the final creation, the Sonic Raider, as Kai had named it. Parked in the center of the Junkyard, it was bigger than they had believed it would be, with four separate cockpits, massive tread wheels, and blades coming out from different sections of the vehicle. It seemed like a mishmash of their summoned vehicles in [M/n]âs opinion, but that was not the important thing right now. Luckily, the vehicle was done just in time.Â
The Great Devourer slid into the Junkyard, eyes narrowing at the vehicle as her long tail coiled closer.Â
âZane, now!â
Zane fired a controlled blast of sound at the Devourer, but she managed to flex the spikes and fins on the side of her head to avoid the poor shot, hissing as it passed her by.
âZane, what was that? This isn't target practice. You're supposed to hit him, not give him a haircut," Cole complained.
âMay I remind you we just magically whipped up this heap of junk?"Â
âWell, I hope one of us created a reverse feature because...reverse!" Kai shouted, frantically looking for a lever to do so in his cockpit, as the Devourer reared back, preparing to dive down.
âHowâs this for reverse?â Jay pushed down on a lever, sending them backwards right into a pile of tires but at least they managed to dodge the open jaws of the Great Devourer.Â
âI cannot hit her like this. I need someone to hold her in place,â Zane said, struggling to aim at a moving target with tools heâd never used.Â
âIâve got it. Howâs this?â Jay asked, firing out a set of grappling hooks that managed to hook onto the softer parts between her scales, sinking in. âGot her!âÂ
âBefore it gets away! Now, Zane. Now! Take the shot!" Kai shouted.
âCharm your way out of this!â The audio hit the Great Devourer directly in the face, earning a terrible scream that grated on their ears. She whipped her head back and forth, trying to escape the grappling hooks.Â
âItâs working!â Cole whooped.
And when she realized she couldnât escape, she raised her tail - the bone peeking through - and slammed it into Zaneâs cockpit, seemingly destroying it.Â
âZANE!!!â [M/n] lurched forward, Nya quickly grabbing him by the arm.
Angrier than ever, she turned and fled, the grappling hooks falling away with the sudden destruction of Zaneâs cockpit, leaving behind acidic green blood on the sands. Nya released her grip on [M/n], letting him run towards the wreckage, ripping through the wreckage to find his brother. Adrenaline allowed him to lift the pieces of metal, Cole hurrying to help pull the heaviest pieces away.Â
âWhereâs Zane? Where is he?â Lloyd asked, watching his guardian, and Cole, frantically rip through the pile of metal. [M/n] managed to find Zane rather quickly, like a second sense, he and Cole moving the pipe that was pinning him down. When [M/n] helped him off the ground, his focus wavered and allowed him to take in the damage done to his brother's face, half of it missing.Â
âI am right here. That was close.â Zane, noticing the way [M/n] was looking at him, reached up, finding the exposed wires, torn faux skin, and inner metal pieces of his face, realizing part of his face was actually missing. âThat is new.â
âToo close,â Kai agreed, helping Zane over the wreckage. Nya fetched the torn piece of Zaneâs face, finding it surprisingly intact, so she handed it over to him, unsure of what to do with it.Â
âPerfect. Now that was a total failure," Jay complained, throwing his hands up. [M/n] climbed over the wreckage as well, Lloyd reaching for him immediately. The boy tucked himself into the olders side, [M/n] resting a hand on Lloydâs shoulder to draw him in closer, squeezing him just on the edge of too close.
âNot totally. Did you guys notice on its forehead? It has a weak spot," Kai revealed, only to receive blank or shocked looks.
âOh, great, let me make a note of that. Giant snake has wee, itty-bitty weak spot that'll be-" Jay pretended to pull out a notebook before raising his voice. "-TOTALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO GET AT BECAUSE THE THING IS TOO RIDICULOUSLY HUGE TO DO ANYTHING TO STOP IT!!!!!!!!"
âAre you done?â Nya deadpanned, raising an eyebrow.
Jay shuddered, slumping against another car, âYes.âÂ
âGood. Because things just got worse. Look."Â
Nya pointed towards the distantly retreating Devourer. Except she was no longer retreating, rather making her way towards Ninjago.
âThatâs where my parents are.â Jay shoved himself off the car, panicking.Â
âNot just them,â Nya said. âThe Postman said something about a rally, right? That could be hundreds, if not thousands of people.âÂ
âIf it consumes the biggest city in all of Ninjago, there will be no stopping it," Kai added, hurrying to jump back into the Sonic Raider. Zane was hesitant to climb in but managed to fit inside the destroyed cockpit, finding the seat itself still intact.Â
[M/n] entrusted Lloyd to Nya, knowing he would be in the thick of the fight, a place Lloyd did not need to be. Once sure heâd been secured in the Mech, [M/n] summoned his Nethercopter and followed above the Sonic Raider, unable to keep himself from glancing out his windows to check on the mech. As they made it closer to the city, [M/n] began to edge ahead, following the path of destruction she had left in her wake.
Flying above the buildings, the Nethercopter picked up its speed, [M/n] using the vantage point to find the trail when it disappeared underground. It meant that he saw the Devourer burst forth from the subway tunnel, right beside the Serpentine Protest going on, tearing through the concrete and devouring everything in sight. Nethercopter directed downwards, he easily picked Ed and Edna out from the crowd, watching them flee towards the jalopy.
But the fast movement caught the Devourers attention, the shiny Jalopy an easy meal.
With a snarl, [M/n] directed the copter into a steep dive, aiming right for her head to force her to back off. Swinging to the side, the sharp blades came close to her scales, the Devourer immediately backing off with a loud hiss. Rebalancing the copter, [M/n]âs jaw set. In this moment, he could not use his Tessens, but even without weapons he could give them time to run. Taking a chance, he took his eyes off the Devourer, praying to Manami that they were gone.Â
Instead, he saw Ed frantically trying to start the stalling Jalopy as Edna clung to her necklace, face pale.Â
The Sonic Raider came tearing around the corner with a shriek. Lightning began to dance across Jayâs cockpit as he spotted his parents in the Nethercopterâs shadow, the only thing standing between them and the terrifying fangs of a creature from legend. The young man quickly jumped out as Kai continued to drive, getting him close, nunchucks glowing in his hands.Â
âLeave my parents alone! Lightning!" Landing on an abandoned car behind the Jalopy, Jay directed a bolt of vibrant purple lightning into her face. The sheer heat left behind blackened scales beneath her left eyes as the Devourer screeched, massive head swinging in pain. Seeing the injury, the ninja felt a surge of hope.
âFire!â A white-orange fireball slammed into the same side, earning a louder scream as she thrashed, tail slamming into the pagoda and destroying everything. The four ninja leaped out of the Sonic Raider, weapons glowing in reaction to Jayâs anger, influencing their holders.Â
âAre you getting this?!â A reporter, originally there for the rally, asked his cameraman.Â
âMind if I borrow this?â Cole lifted their news van, sheathed scythe glowing as he himself was surrounded by bronze-brown light, veins gleaming an orangeish color. Powered by his True Potential, Cole had no issues throwing the van through the air, aiming for the already burned and cracked scales on the Devourers face.Â
âGo, ninja, go!âÂ
âIce!â The entire left side of her face was covered in a layer of thick ice, forcing her to smack her head into the surrounding buildings to free herself as the four ninja regrouped. Once freed from the ice, the Devourer turned towards them. All four eyes glowed an acidic purple, the Devourer hissing loudly, a deep sound that came across more like a growl.Â
âUh oh, I think we only made her mad,â Jay said, freaking out as the bright, hot colors of his lightning dropped back down to normal colors and temperature. Her focus now on them, she began to rear back.
Above, [M/n] directed his copter to hover above her head before releasing his hold on his Golden Tessens and falling. However, he missed her forehead, the Devourer trying to tilt her head out of the way when she noticed, just too late. He managed to catch himself on her eye ridge, the large spikes above perfect handholds. Without thinking, he unsheathed one of his longer blades, about 7 inches, and sank the blade into her hind eye, the smaller eye.Â
A scream, louder than any of the ones before, erupted from her throat as she violently tried to smash him against the buildings. [M/n] struggled to hold on, his grip on the original spike loosening, forcing him to grab onto another, smaller, spike. Her muscular tail slammed into the ground, the vibrations knocked down the other ninja, as she turned her fury on them. The Great Devourer reared back up, [M/n] quickly dug another smaller knife into the space between her scales for better grip.
Nya dove in, at the last second, using a lamppost sheâd ripped up to force her mouth open in a painful position, keeping her from eating the ninja though her head shaking nearly unseated [M/n].
âItâs breath smells worse than Coleâs chili,â Lloyd complained through the comms, sending [M/n]âs heart into a frenzied pattern. It had been a desperate hope that Nya had left Lloyd behind somewhere.Â
âYou have to get [M/n]!!â Zane yelled, terrified for his brother.Â
ââWha-where is he?!âÂ
âHer face!! Heâs on her face!!â Cole shouted, frantically gesturing towards the right side of her face.Â
The Mech began to jerk in place, its hands wrapped around the lamppost. âSis, get outta there!!â Kai yelled.
âI canât! Iâm stuck!âÂ
[M/n] quickly began to try to haul himself to get to stuck open mouth to help Nya and Lloyd, but the violent movements of her head made it too difficult for him to properly swing himself up so he pivoted. Setting his jaw, [M/n] reached for another one of his knives, 5 inches, he aimed to at least piss her off more so sheâd put her full attention on him, damn the consequences.Â
Chest burning, he steadied the knife to plunge it into her fore eye, but before he could, a song-like roar came from behind the Devourer, with a dark, harrowing note underneath.
Before anyone could react, a blur of purple slammed into the Devourer, hooked foreclaws raking down the sides of her muscular neck for balance as an angular snout reached into her still open maw to grab onto Nyaâs Mech. Twisting, Ara released the mech into the open air, with Nya managing to turn on the thrusters to catch them, awkwardly flying away. Ara turned back, grabbing [M/n] by the back of his GI, pushing off into the skies with a powerful leap. The Devourer was knocked forward from the power, shrieking angrily.
He moved out of the way, just in time for the four headed dragon to ram into the Devourerâs back when she straightened, claws raking and teeth snapping.Â
âRocky!â Cole cheered. âOur dragons are back!â
Ara glided down to the ground, landing gracefully and carefully setting his rider down, the teen stumbling forward.Â
â[M/n]!â Zane cried, rushing over to grab the ninja by the shoulders to do a quick lookover as the the purple ninja caught his breath,
âNya!â
[M/n] pulled himself free, eyes wide, âLloyd. I have to get to Lloyd.â Turning towards the mech, he hurried towards it.Â
â[M/n]!â Lloyd scrambled out of the partially wrecked Mech first, scrambling towards the ninja who picked up his own pace to catch him when he flew into his arms. The burning lessened, [M/n] clinging tightly to Lloyd, squeezing until the boy was wheezing slightly but he didnât comment. Lloyd relished in the tight grip, doing his best to squeeze back, with a surprising strength.Â
Nya and Kai were embracing nearby, Nya clinging to Kai like she was just a little girl again, breaths stuttering.Â
âAre you alright? Any injuries?â [M/n] asked, forcing himself to pull away to check over Lloyd. The boy just stared back at him, tears streaming down his face.
âI thought we were gonna die!â Lloyd pushed himself back into his grip, clinging only to freeze when a warm huff of breath washed over them. Slowly turning his head, Lloyd squeaked in fear when he met the silver eyes of a dragon.
Ara had changed quite a bit over the months, colors changing and deepening across his scales and feathers. Branching horns curled up from his angular skull, made of dark grey ivory, that resembled antlers. He had nearly doubled in size, his tail was longer and thicker like a crocodile's with hollow spikes and a jagged frill.Â
Before Lloyd could panic, [M/n] looked up and murmured, âAra.â The name, plus the relief and gratefulness in his tone, had Lloyd relaxing, realizing the dragon wasnât a threat.
Then it clicked, âWait, is thatââ
âThis is Ara.â The wyvern moved his head, focusing on the Great Devourer. Shifting forward, Ara hid them beneath him, even the other ninja since they had joined the two to watch as their dragon - dragons? - took on the Great Devourer.
âIt appears Dragons go through a metamorphosis when they reach adulthood. They too have found their True Potential," Zane stated, awed by the sight.Â
âHa! They couldn't have come at a better time. Go get them, Rocky! Go!" Cole was cheering and whooping, practically dancing in place.
Shards ice breath washed over the Devourers face, âIce!â
Flames fire burned away the ice, targeting the already damaged side of her face. âFire!âÂ
Wisps lightning hit the eyes [M/n] had targeted, turning them into a blackened, gooey mess as she wailed in plan, âLight-ning!â Jay gagged, interrupting his own cheering.
Having stood, [M/n] kept Lloydâs face turned away from the sight, making absolute sure he couldnât see, though he himself wasnât disturbed or alarmed by the sight.Â
The dragon then charged, Rockyâs head slamming into her good side to squash the bad side of her face into the closest building. âEarth! Can dragons get any cooler than that? Seriously!âÂ
The group cheered as the Great Devourer sluggishly pulled herself away from the building, turning away to flee, dropping her entire body onto the ground as if she were afraid to face something as powerful as she.Â
âYes! Itâs running away!â Kai laughed, squeezing his sister into his side. Diving the dragon prepared to dive back down and ram her one last time, only to be smacked away by her muscular tail.Â
âNoooo!!âÂ
The sound of bones cracking made the group sick. Everyone was horrified, watching the dragon crash painfully into a nearby building. They did not get back up. Araâs neck reared back, âfeathersâ shifting and sliding against each other to create that eerie sliding sound, a low rumble beneath the sound.Â
For a moment there was hope, the dragon struggling to push themselves up, only for their legs to give out. Collapsing back into the rubble, the dragon lay still. Cole lifted his hands up, hands clasping beneath his chin, âCome on, come on. Get up, youâve got this.â
âÎŁÎșαÏÎŹ,â [M/n] hissed, pushing Lloyd towards Nya. She grabbed onto his shoulders to keep the boy from trying to follow. âAra and I will give you time to come up with some kind of plan.âÂ
Using Araâs wing, [M/n] darted up into the saddle, the wyvern quickly backing up to keep the ninja from being knocked down. Crouching, he pushed off and took to the skies with a few powerful beats of his wings. As he approached, Ara announced himself with a roar to draw her attention away from the other dragon.Â
Swooping in, he raked her talons across the top of her skull before she could duck away. Twisting away, she hissed, maw opening wide. Ara ignored the sound, diving back down to latch onto the back of her neck, targeting the delicate skin of her frills, tearing them free as she screamed.Â
Her muscular tail slammed into the buildings and ground, [M/n] watching it closely so they couldnât be targeted from behind. When she raised it, Ara would push off, using the buildings to pull himself off, only to leap right back onto her and start tearing at her scales with every claw and fang he had, Nether pouring free from his maw to infect the wounds and further damage her. She thrashed trying to shake him off, slamming into buildings in her efforts to knock Ara off, no longer really trying to fight them, rather trying to escape.
Ara refused to allow that, green blood splattered across purple scales.Â
Behind them, the dragon used the distraction to drag themselves, limp wings and all, to safety. Collapsing at their side, the ninja tried to comfort the dragon, their attention dragged back to the fight when the Great Devourer threw Ara off.Â
Twisting, he caught his foreclaws on the lip of a building, quickly pulling himself out of the way before the Great Devourer could bite. Turning, he snarled again, muscles bunching, but Shard let out a low rumbling noise, calling him off. Reluctantly, the wyvern pushed off and retreated towards the others, the Devourer taking the opportunity to flee deeper into the city.Â
By the time Ara landed, the ninja had disappeared, splitting off to enact whatever plan theyâd come up with. Left in the dark, [M/n] could only act as he hoped they wanted him to. Lloyd hurried towards him, Ara bending lower as [M/n] reached down with a hand to haul Lloyd up into the saddle. Across from them, the dragon rose on unsteady feet, using all their strength to push off and follow Nya in her Mech.Â
Nya led them towards the center of Ninjago, to a building tall enough that they had a good view of the Devourer and the ninjaâs plan in action. Ara balanced on the edge of the roof, foreclaws digging into the concrete.
âWhat plan did they come up with?â [M/n] asked Lloyd, staying in the saddle.
âI didnât hear all of it. It has something to do with getting the Devourer all tied up, and then . . . Then Dadâs supposed to use the Golden Weapons to destroy the Great Devourer. Kai told him about the weak point on her forehead.â
[M/n] looked past Ara. âAnd this plan apparently includes leading the Devourer on a chase in the city?â
âUhhh, maybe?â
[M/n] pointed down to the streets, where Kai was fleeing - on foot - from the Devourer before he dove into a hiding place, Cole taking his place. The Devourer didnât seem to notice the change of person, continuing to pursue the ninja with a dogged intensity. Once Cole had led her a good four blocks, he dove to the side to let Jay take over.Â
âIâve gotta go get them! Stay here!â Nya took off, meeting the two on a side street before carrying them back to the roof as [M/n] kept an eye on Jay, who was now fleeing up a building still in construction.Â
The Devourer was struggling to keep up and follow the ninja without crashing into the buildings due to her missing eye and damaged face, breaking her own scales in her pursuit. Following Jay up the stairs, she struggled to even fit, pushing hard to do so, which gave him a good head start. He met up with Zane on the very top floor, doubling over and gasping.Â
Landing back on the roof, faint trails of smoke curled from the mech, âYouâre going to have to get them, I donât think my mech can take any more.âÂ
âUnderstood.â It took only the slightest movement for Ara to understand, pushing off the building as Lloyd yelped, laughing when the wyvern caught the wind and swooped upwards. Twisting between the buildings, Lloyd couldnât help but cheer.
Zane created a twisting ice ramp that further led the Devour in circles, before it went straight up so they would be tossed up. Jay screamed, continuing even when talons wrapped around him and Zane and he was carried away.
He only stopped when Ara returned to the right building, hovering above the roof and carefully dropping the two down onto the roof. They both hurried out of the way, letting Ara drop back onto the roof with a low rumbling grunt.Â
Jay stumbled, but caught himself, popping up with a, âYou think it's working?"Â
âWeâre about to find out,â Kai answered grimly, watching the Devourer.
If this plan didnât work, they didnât have any others and they would be absolutely screwed.Â
[M/n] and Lloyd slid down from the saddle, joining everyone at the edge of the roof to see how everything played out. They all watched the Great Devourer try to move, but she was stuck, and no matter what she tried, she couldnât move. Twisting only seemed to make it worse, her body stuck between buildings that she couldnât fit through and in the construction stairway and now her face was stuck directly beside her own tail.Â
âYes! We did it!â Cole cheered.
âWhereâs Garmadon?â Nya asked, looking around worriedly. âWho knows how long that's gonna hold her.â
Lloyd found his father first, pointing to the top of the building beside the Devourers head. âLook, up there! Dad!â Lord Garmadon stood with all four Golden Weapons in hand, the sky darkening ominously behind him, purple lightning dancing in the dark clouds.Â
âYou are the reason evil runs through my blood. You bit me once. Now feel what it's like to be bitten back!" Lord Garmadon bellowed furiously.Â
âGo get her, Dad.â Lloyd looked up to his dad, awed.Â
âVengeance will be mine!"
With those words, he leaped. Holding the weapons close, he plunged the Earth Scythe, Fire Sword, and Ice Shuriken into her weak spot, using the Lightning Nunchucks to press down. A faint scream erupted from the Devourer just before she completely exploded in a wave of bloodied pale green chunks of flesh that dripped green blood and green venom that pooled into the streets.Â
âHe did it,â Jay said, gobsmacked.Â
âNo, we did it!" Cole laughed, sweeping Jay up into a hug as Lloyd happily whipped around to embrace [M/n]. Everyone began to cheer, âDobbiamo festeggiare!â (We have to celebrate!)
Even [M/n] was relieved, embracing Lloyd tightly. Once everyone had finished celebrating on the roof, they climbed down - using the stairs this time - only to find Ed and Edna waiting anxiously on a nearby street. Edna rushed forward when she saw them, throwing her arms around Jay and squeezing him tightly.Â
âOh my little ninja,â Edna cooed, brought to tears.Â
The other dragons landed, limping closer as Rocky reached out to nudge Cole, âHey, there you are, you big lug.â He scratched Rockyâs nose, the other three watching jealously. âIt's good to have you back."
Lloyd, after looking around, tugged at [M/n]âs GI, âI donât see my dad.âÂ
âHas anyone seen Garmadon?â [M/n] asked after looking around himself.Â
âHe should be around here somewhere,â Kai said, frowning when he didnât see Garmadon either.Â
âYour analysis is incorrect. He is not here,â Zane refuted.Â
âThen our Golden Weapons are gone too. Well, isn't that convenient?" Cole complained.
âI think those are his footprints,â Nya pointed out. â[M/n]?â
He observed the footprints. They were larger than the average shoe size, with a different pattern. âIt seems so.âÂ
âI have a feeling you'll see your father again soon," Kai stated.
âI know, but that's what I'm afraid of," Lloyd admitted, glancing up to [M/n].
Cole nodded in understanding, looking past the group only for his eyes to go wide in shock, âSanto cielo! Sensei Wu!â Everyone whipped around in shock, finding said man covered in blood and guts.
âSensei!â Nya cried, breaking into a run.Â
âYouâre alive!â Jay yelled hysterically, nearly crashing into the man before he braked.Â
âI can't tell you how glad I am to see you!" Wu announced, brushing past everyone to grab his teapot that had been thrown overboard. They all watched in mild disgust and shock as he poured himself a cup and drank it. âThe Devourer left a bad taste in my mouth." Lloyd even gagged. âAh. Much better. And still hot."Â
Lloyd straightened his face before speaking to his uncle, âIt's good to have you back, uncle. But my father left and he took four of the Golden Weapons."
âAh, unfortunate,â Wu said, unbothered much to everyone's surprise. âThe Golden Weapons power is great, but the power one holds to make themself better is limitless."
âAhh, couldnât have said it better myself,â Jay teased, his parents tucking him between them.Â
âIt is nothing for you to worry about,â [M/n] murmured to Lloyd. âWe have what is most important: you.â
âAnd you,â Zane added, lightly bumping their shoulders together.Â
âThe pupils have become the masters," Wu repeated proudly.
âAm I really gonna have to fight my father one day?" Lloyd asked anxiously, looking between the ninja.Â
âOne day. But today we can feel good that Ninjago is saved, for tomorrow you will train for the day. Good will finally face evil and a final outcome will be decided for all of time," Wu stated.Â
âThat will be a ways from now. Until then we will watch over you and teach you everything we know.â
âAnd make sure you're prepared for that fight."Â
"Because as we all know, good will always stand up to evil."Â
"And ninja will always stand up for what is right.âÂ
"Sensei," Kai croaked, as the Devourer swallowed him whole.
"No," Jay whispered, trembling. [M/n] shoved Lloyd behind him, towards Nya who was quick to lift him into the cockpit of her mech. The movement of her brightly colored mech had the Devourer turning her long sinuous neck to look at them. "Oh, maybe if we stand perfectly still..."
"Run!" [M/n] ordered, grabbing the back of Jay's GI as he stumbled. Nya took off, flying to the Bounty as the five raced across the sand and between the statues of Ouroboros. Shrieking, she tore off after them, muscles propelling her across the sand.
Jay, panicking as he struggled to get his feet under him as he was unceremoniously dragged, screeched, "Wait! Don't leave me!" Grunting, he released Jay who caught himself and picked up the pace, outpacing the others easily.Â
[M/n] rounded out the back as the others scrambled up the chain. The Devourer surged closer as she followed after them, the Bounty's engines rumbling beneath them. All five ran to the Bridge, where Nya and Lloyd were preparing the Bounty.Â
"Uh, hate to tell you this, but objects in the mirror are closer than they appear," Jay said, having run right to the small circular window upon entering the room.Â
"Working on it," Nya snapped. [M/n] stepped behind Lloyd as he tapped away on the board. "Blasters on full."
Lloyd nodded, turning them on to full as she ordered. The Bounty lurched into motion, speeding away as the ninja cheered.Â
"Whoo-hoo! Take that, you stupid snake!" Kai whooped, earning a demonic shriek as the Devourer sped up.
"Uh, I think it heard you," Jay hissed.Â
"Nya, we gotta go faster. That thing is gaining on us," Kai called.Â
"We're going as fast as we can. I'll try to make it to Scattered Canyon."
"Probability of us making it that far is less than 8 percent," Zane reported, having run the numbers.
"Never tell me the odds!" Nya pushed the Bounty to go faster, but she could only do so much.
"It's coming in for another attack. Port side," Cole warned, as Nya swerved to the side to avoid the lunge.
"We're losing speed. We'll drop to the ground pretty soon," Lloyd cried. The sudden jerk and the pressure on the engines was grinding her gears and slowing the ship down.
"Throw everything overboard," Nya ordered, earning gobsmacked looks from the four.
"What?"
"We need to lose some weight," Nya snapped, furious.
"Port side!" Lloyd shrieked, as Nya swerved violently. [M/n] held his ground, stopping him and Lloyd from being knocked down while the others stumbled out of the Bridge. Once the Bounty leveled out, [M/n] moved to the window and watched as the Devourer began eating the objects thrown overboard.
With a dawning sense of horror, he watched as she grew in size. "ÎαΌÏ." (Fuck)
"What?" Nya asked, glancing back towards him, only to see him running from the room. Lloyd looked at her, afraid, so she offered him a waning smile before turning back to face forward.Â
[M/n] saw Cole first and shouted down to him, "Stop! The more it consumes the bigger it grows!"
Cole paled, immediately turning to echo his warning, "Don't throw anything else overboard!"
Nya shouted out, "We made it to Scattered Canyons. Hold on!"
Cole looked over the railing as they made their way through the canyons, "Ah, we lost him!"
The Devourer burst from the sand and ripped the engine from the Bounty, tipping the Bounty violently. [M/n] snarled, catching himself on the railing before making his way back to the Bridge.Â
Lloyd was clinging to the table, shrieking as Nya held onto the wheel, trying to stabilize the Bounty. Unable to hold on anymore, Lloyd fell into [M/n]'s arms, yelping fearfully.Â
"We need to go, Nya!"
Nya looked back at [M/n] desperately, but he shook his head. Letting go, she fell beside [M/n] and the two fled from the Bridge.Â
"Abandon ship!"Â
[M/n] held Lloyd securely to his chest as he jumped, summoning his Nethercopter. All six vehicles landed on a large rock platform, just beneath a small rounded cave. Gathering together, all vehicles except for Nya's mech gone, they watched, waiting with bated breath for the Bounty to crash.Â
Only for the Devourer to burst forth from the sand and snap it nearly in half.Â
"No!"Â
[M/n]'s heart plummeted as he watched his second home be destroyed, holding Lloyd to his side.
"Ă andato," Cole croaked, tears pooling in his eyes. Ignoring them, she left, slithering away. (It's gone)
They all ducked into the cave, out of the blistering heat, sitting or standing as they processed what had just happened.Â
"Oh, that was too intense. All that action makes you so thirsty," Kai joked, hiding his trembling hands by fiddling with his belt.
"There's no time to rest. We need to warn people before it becomes bigger," Zane stated, shaking his head.
"Bigger? Bigger!? That thing in one big bite crushed our entire ship! We need to save as many as we can. Uh, uh, we'll find some kind of refuge, somewhere safe to hide. Ooh, the Serpentine Tombs. Yeah, they're underground. Sure, we'll be without sunlight for months, but they're perfect," Jay ranted, pacing frantically as his hands flapped.Â
"And what? Just give up?" Cole asked.
"You know as well as I do, we have no chance at stopping that thing!"
"Hey, stop it! Listen to yourselves. Is this what Sensei Wu would've wanted? Us fighting? Running and hiding? Giving up?" Kai pushed the two apart before they could argue any further.
"But he's not here anymore," Lloyd whispered, bowing his head. Everyone followed suit.
"But his teachings live on. Sensei once told me it's not the size of a ninja in a fight, it's the size of the fight in the ninja. All this training, all of these battles we've had with skeletons and Serpentine. We've persevered through so much, we can't just give up now. A ninja never admits defeat. A ninja always picks himself up when he is down. Which is exactly what Sensei Wu would want us to do right now," Kai stated, standing tall.Â
"But how do we destroy a snake of that magnitude?" Zane askedÂ
"Yeah, it's not like we have an extra Sacred Flute lying around to charm it. Or wait, haha, how about one of our awesome Dragons? Oh, I forgot. They took off and left us high and dry. Or, hey, what about our Golden Weapons? Which will do nothing against a snake that size. Heh, oh, we are so hooped," Jay laughed, burying his face in his hands.Â
"Ah, Jay's right. We would need a weapon so big," Cole agreed.
"Or an idea that's even bigger! Ha! Jay, you're a genius! You thinking what I'm thinking?" Kai asked, already making his way out of the cave.Â
"Probably not, but go ahead," Jay mumbled, waving his hand towards Kai.
"There's no time. I'll fill you guys in on the way." He summoned his vehicle as they all scrambled to follow.
"Whaâ Where are we going?" Jay asked, summoning his jet. Everyone did as well, with Nya quickly climbing back into her Samurai Mech.
"We're going to destroy that snake once and for all."
It was as they drove towards Ed and Edna's Junkyard that Kai explained his plan.
"Good idea, Kai. If the Devourer likes to consume, this place is a full-on buffet," Cole stated, placing his scythe back into its sheath.Â
Jay pushed past them to get to his parents' trailer, knocking impatiently. When no one answered he slumped a little, relieved his parents would not be in the danger zone. "Looks like my parents are gone."Â
"Good, better for us," Kai said, pulling a blueprint out of nowhere. He placed it on the hood of an old, rusted truck so everyone could see it.
"It's so awesome," Jay whispered, tracing the different aspects of the so-called Sonic Raider.
Lloyd tugged at [M/n]'s GI, unable to see the blueprint because of the way the ninja were all pressed together to see it. Realizing that, [M/n] stepped back so Lloyd could stand in front of him.
"Zane, you still have a recording of the Sacred Flute in your memory bank?" Kai asked.
"It might've been destroyed earlier, but I have its exact tone recorded and ready for playback," Zane confirmed, playing the sound aloud.
"Good. And there should be enough spare parts around here to build this whopper. But we're gonna need to create our biggest Tornado of Creation yet. This is gonna be dangerous, and we can't have anyone around."
[M/n] was unable to participate in the Tornado of Creation because his element was of Destruction, and tended to tear whatever was created apart.
In a moment of irony, the Postman arrived whistling a jovial tune.
"Ugh. What's he doing here?" Cole asked, hurrying around the corner with Kai, startling the Postman.
"Uh, well, now, I too have a job to do, and that's delivering the mail, which I plan to do," Postman snapped, pulling out a few letters.
"Look, dude, my parents aren't even here. You really should be on your way," Jay called out.
"Them, too? Uh, let me guess, are they at the "Take Back Ninjago" rally too?" Postman asked, shaking his head.
"Uh, "Take Back Ninjago" rally?" Jay joined Kai and Cole, curious as to what the man was talking about.
"What, you guys haven't heard? Everyone's getting together for a rally in the city. You know, to raise awareness about all the Serpentine problems that have been surfacing lately."
"It's good they're not here." Postman yelped, jumping back as [M/n] practically melted out from the shadows. Lloyd laughed for a second before covering it with a cough when he saw the Postman's glare.
"Whoa, would you look at that. You guys are inspirational."
"Wait a minute, you know what? You guys are right. Wherever you guys are, trouble is always around the corner," Postman realized, nervously looking around. [M/n], who was looking past him, tensed up as he saw the Great Devourer heading their way. "I think I'll be leaving now, 'cause whatever you guys are up to, I want no part of it."Â
Turning to stomp away, he saw the massive snake heading towards them and screamed, "Aah! S-s-snake!"
Wasting no time, [M/n] grabbed Lloyd, dragging him back towards Nya who was already hunkering down, Postman hot on their tail.Â
"Hey! It's now or never, guys! Ninja, go! Fire!"Â
"Earth!"
"Lightning!"
"Ice!"Â
Scraps of metal shot past them, sucked into the tornado as [M/n] held Nya and Lloyd down. Just in case. It took nearly a full minute for them to build the Sonic Raider, wrecking a good portion of the Junkyard in the process.
The Sonic Raider was far larger than it had seemed on the blueprint, with four separate cockpits and multiple weapons hidden across the entire thing.
"Zane, now!" Kai shouted.Â
Zane fired a controlled blast of the sound, but the Devourer flattened her fins to the side of her head and twisted, so the shot barely even touched her.
"Zane, what was that? This isn't target practice. You're supposed to hit him, not give him a haircut," Cole complained.
"May I remind you we just magically whipped up this heap of junk?"Â
"Well, I hope one of us created a reverse feature because... reverse!" Kai shouted.
"How's this for reverse?" Jay slammed down a lever and they drove backwards, slamming into a pile of tires but dodging the jaws of the Devourer.Â
"I need your help holding him in place," Zane stated, trying to take aim.
"How's this?" Jay asked, firing out a set of grappling hooks that clung to the edge of the Devourer's scales. "Got him!"
"Before it gets away! Now, Zane. Now! Take the shot!" Kai shouted.
"Charm your way out of this." The audio hit the Devourer in the face as it screamed, a terrible sound that grated on their ears.
"It's working!" Cole cheered.
Rearing in an attempt to escape, the Devourer's scream changed into one of anger before it lifted its tail and smacked Zane's cockpit.Â
"Zane!"
Angrier than ever, she fled, leaving the ninja to climb out of their own cockpits to search for Zane. [M/n] made it to the rubble first, dragging pieces off to dig for his brother.
"Where's Zane?" Lloyd asked, afraid as his guardian dug through the metal scraps.Â
[M/n] quickly found and pulled Zane from the wreckage, revealing that half of his face was missing, revealing the titanium underneath as well as the delicate wiring. "Right here. That was close."
"Too close," Kai agreed, helping Zane down.Â
"Perfect. Now that was a total failure," Jay complained, throwing his hands up. Lloyd was quick to tuck himself against [M/n], who began rubbing his shoulder to soothe him.
"Not totally. Did you guys notice on his forehead? It has a weak spot," Kai revealed. Everyone stared at him, gaping.
"Oh, great, let me make a note of that. Giant snake has a wee, itty-bitty weak spot that'll be-" Jay pretended to pull out a notebook before raising his voice. "-TOTALLY IMPOSSIBLE TO GET AT BECAUSE THE THING IS TOO RIDICULOUSLY HUGE TO DO ANYTHING TO STOP IT!!!!!!!!"
"Are you done?" Nya asked, raising an eyebrow.
Jay shuddered, slumping against a nearby piece of junk, "Yes."
"Because things just got worse. Look." Nya pointed towards the Great Devourer, who was retreating, but towards Ninjago City.
"That's where my parents are," Jay said, standing up straight.
"The rally. Hundreds of people will be there. And the citizens," [M/n] added, squeezing Lloyd against his side.Â
"If it consumes the biggest city in all of Ninjago, there will be no stopping it," Kai stated, jumping into the Sonic Raider.
[M/n] entrusted Lloyd to Nya â who took him with her in the Samurai Mech â knowing that he would likely be in the thick of the fight, and he didn't want Lloyd hurt.Â
The Nethercopter flew over the Sonic Raider, though it quickly passed them once they made it closer to Ninjago, so [M/n] spotted the Great Devourer first as she burst from the subway and began eating everything in sight.
He spotted Ed and Edna racing towards the Jalopy and dove down, catching the serpent's attention to give them time to get away. Shrieking, the Devourer's jaws nearly snapped shut on the tail of his copter but he dove to the side, spinning away.Â
Unfortunately, the Jalopy seemed to be stalling and they hadn't managed to get away when she turned her attention back on them.Â
Luckily, the Sonic Raider made it.Â
"Mom? Dad? Leave my parents alone! Lightning!" Jay jumped to his parents' defense, nunchucks sparking violently in his anger. A brilliant bolt of lightning left the Devourer screaming and backing off, swinging her head side to side.Â
"Fire!" A fireball slammed into her side and she slammed her tail into the nearby pavilion in pain, shaking the ground.Â
"Are you getting this?" Reporter asked, crouching behind their van as they watched.
"Roll camera."
"Mind if I borrow this?" Cole asked, lifting their van above his head as his scythe glowed.
"Go, ninja, go!" Reporter whooped, as the van smacked into her head and threw her off balance.
"Ice!" Zane froze the side of her head, forcing her to slam her head into the ground the break it off. Hissing, she turned towards the ninja, eyes glowing in her fury.
"Uh, I think we only made it mad," Jay said, paling.
Snarling, [M/n] dropped from his helicopter and sent a bo shuriken into the Devourer's eye, earning an ear-piercing scream that he reveled in. Angrily, she slammed her tail onto the ground, unbalancing them all.Â
Kai, Jay, and Cole all fell to the ground, but Zane and [M/n] were able to keep their balance. Rearing, they realized she was going to eat them, just as she had their Sensei.
Nya dove in, slamming a lamppost she'd torn up into its mouth and forcing it to stay open, stopping it from eating the ninja.Â
"Samurai to the rescue. Again," Jay cheered weakly, climbing to his feet.
"Its breath smells worse than Cole's chili," Lloyd reported, gagging through the comms.
"Hey!" Cole cried, offended.
When the mech did not pull away, as they assumed it would, Kai shouted, "Get out of there, sis!"
[M/n]'s heart rate picked up as the Mech jerked back and forth, obviously trying to escape. "I can't! I'm stuck!" Nya shouted into the comms as the jerking picked up.
"Lloyd," [M/n] whispered, muscles tensing as he prepared to leap into battle, only for a bone-shaking roar to stop him.Â
Something slammed into the Devourer from behind, hooked talons sinking into armor-like scales as the beast leaned forward and grabbed onto the mech with its large maw. Dragging the Mech from the Devourer's mouth, Ara leaped into the air, massive wings getting them out of the way in time for a four-headed dragon to slam into the Devourer.Â
"Rocky! Our Dragons are back," Cole cheered.Â
[M/n] and Kai both rushed towards Ara who was carefully setting the Mech down on the ground so he didn't injure the occupants. Lloyd scrambled out from the Mech first and was immediately swept into [M/n]'s arms as the older dropped to his knees.Â
"Nya!" Kai nearly knocked her over when he slammed into her but she didn't care, wrapping her arms around his neck and clinging to him like she was a little girl again.Â
Cradling Lloyd's face, [M/n] pulled away, "Are you alright? Any injuries?!"
"I'm fine," Lloyd said, pulling his face away to go back in for a hug. Above them, Ara lowered his head down to gently sniff the boy who startled at the warm breath that suddenly washed over him. "Woah! Is thatâ!"
"Ara," [M/n] murmured, pressing a hand to the wyvern's snout. Lloyd was in awe of the feathered dragon who was much bigger than he'd imagined.
Picking Lloyd up, the four joined the other ninja as Ara stood over them protectively.Â
"It appears Dragons go through a metamorphosis when they reach adulthood. They, too, have found their True Potential," Zane stated, watching their dragon in awe.
"Ha! They couldn't have come at a better time. Go get them, Rocky! Go!" Cole whooped, practically jumping in place.
"Ice!"
Shard's ice breath coated the Devourer's face as the swooped past.
"Fire!"
Flame's fire licked across the scales that Ara had ripped into, making the Devourer scream, though it was muffled.Â
"Lightning!"Â
Wisp's lightning hit the Devourer in her already injured eye, turning it into a blackened, gooey mess. Jay gagged, as everyone else winced, disgusted by the sight. [M/n] was the only one who stared unflinching, tucking Lloyd's head into his shoulder so he couldn't see.
"Earth!"
Rocky slammed into the Devourer, sending her into a nearby building before the four heads roared in delight.Â
"Can Dragons get any cooler? Seriously."Â
The group cheered as the Devourer sluggishly pulled herself up while the four dragons prepared to attack again. Turning, it seemed that she was fleeing, too afraid to continue attacking something that matched her in strength.
"Yes! It's running away," Kai said, squeezing Nya to his side.Â
Diving, Rocky seemed to be preparing to slam into her again, only for her to slam her tail into their side and knock them out of the sky.Â
"NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!"Â
The sickening crack of bones could be heard all the way where they were, horrifying them all. Ara reared back, feathers shifting and flaring in anger before he roared, a deeper one than before.
"No," Cole whispered, seeing as their dragons tried to get up.Â
"ÎŁÎșαÏÎŹ. Come up with a plan," [M/n] ordered, setting Lloyd down as Ara crouched. "We'll keep her busy." (Shit)
Ara snarled, running forward a few steps once [M/n] was in place before lifting off with a powerful beat of his wings. Turning to them, the Devourer was met with razor-sharp claws and teeth raking across her scales until they could get underneath.Â
Screaming, she flung them off, ignoring the blood pouring from the open wounds. She lunged, barely missing Ara's tail, only grabbing a few of the longer feathers. The pinching sensation of his feathers being torn off had Ara roaring and turning to slam into her in rage.
When Shard roared, Ara pulled away, heeding the call for them to return.Â
No one actually told him the plan once he landed, too busy putting it into motion. Nya was quick to send Lloyd to him and lead him, Ara, and the four-headed dragon towards a roof overlooking a good portion of the city, leaving [M/n] confused and a little curious.Â
Kai started the plan, leading the Devourer in a chase through the streets before Cole took over and brought her towards Jay. Both of them were picked up by Nya, who brought them up to the roof where they could see the Devourer chasing Jay up a building to Zane before they escaped.
Sliding down Zane's ice slide, they were launched into the air where they were caught by Ara and brought back to the roof as well.Â
Jay stumbled a bit when he was dropped onto the roof but was quick to right himself, "You think it's working?"
"We're about to find out," Kai answered grimly. If the plan didn't work, they were screwed.
Silence fell over the group as they watched her try to move, her body twisted in knots around buildings. She was stuck.
"We did it! Now, where's Garmadon? She's not gonna hold on for much longer," Cole said, glancing around.Â
Lloyd, who was looking around as well, found his father first. "Look! Dad!" Standing atop the building above the Devourer's head, Lord Garmadon held the weapons as the sky darkened ominously.
"You are the reason evil runs through my blood. You bit me once. Now feel what it's like to be bitten back," Lord Garmadon bellowed furiously.
"Go get him, Dad," Lloyd whispered, leaning back into [M/n].
"Vengeance will be mine!"
He jumped, piercing the small weak spot on her forehead with all four weapons, completely destroying her.
"He did it," Jay said, a little gobsmacked.
"No, we did it!" Cole shouted, sweeping Jay up into a hug as Lloyd turned to throw himself into [M/n]'s arms.
Cheering, they made their way down to the ground where they found Ed and Edna anxiously waiting. Edna rushed forward as soon as she saw Jay, throwing her arms around him as Ed followed.Â
"Oh, my little ninja," Edna crooned, struggling to hold back tears.Â
Rocky landed, immediately calling for Cole with a low rumble. "Hey, there you are, you big lug." He rubbed Rocky's nose as the other dragons watched jealously. "It's good to have you back."
Lloyd tugged at the bottom of [M/n]'s GI, "I don't see my dad."
"He should be around here somewhere," Kai said, frowning as he looked around. [M/n] did not even have to look around. The man was gone.Â
"Your analysis is incorrect. He is not here," Zane refuted.
"Then our Golden Weapons are gone too. Well, isn't that convenient?" Cole complained.
"Look, his footsteps," Nya pointed out. The prints in the blood and guts of the Devourer led away from them, towards the edge of the city.Â
"I have a feeling you'll see your father again soon," Kai stated, resting a hand on Lloyd's shoulder.
"I know, but that's what I'm afraid of," Lloyd admitted, glancing up to [M/n].
"Ah, Sensei Wu!" Cole shouted, surprising everyone. They all spun to see the man absolutely covered in the guts of the Devourer, but alive.
"Sensei!" Nya cried, breaking into a run. Everyone raced after her, shouting for their Sensei as they realized he was alive.
"You're alive!" Jay shouted hysterically, nearly crashing into the man.Â
"I can't tell you how glad I am to see you!" Wu announced, brushing past them all to get to his teapot. They all watched as he poured himself a cup. "The Devourer left a bad taste in my mouth." Everyone was disgusted when he drank the cup, with Lloyd even making a gagging sound. "Ah. Much better. And still hot."
Lloyd shook his head, before remembering what had just happened, "It's good to have you back, uncle. But my father left and he took four of the Golden Weapons."
"Ah, unfortunate," Wu mused, seemingly unbothered. "The Golden Weapons power is great, but the power one holds to make themself better is limitless."
"I couldn't have said it any better myself," Jay teased, grinning as his parents happily hugged him.Â
"We have what is most important: you," [M/n] murmured, smoothing down some of Lloyd's errant hairs.
"The pupils have become the masters," Wu repeated proudly.
"Am I really gonna have to fight my father one day?" Lloyd asked anxiously.
"One day. But today we can feel good that Ninjago is saved, for tomorrow you will train for the day. Good will finally face evil and a final outcome will be decided for all of time," Wu stated.Â
"We will teach you everything we know," [M/n] comforted, squeezing Lloyd into his side.
"And make sure you're prepared for that fight."
"Because as we all know, good will always stand up to evil."
"And ninja will always stand up for what is right."
All of the ninja - Nya, Wu, and Lloyd included - woke far later than they were used too, with most of them lounging about in bed. Wu had even brought down the leftover onigiri and fried kibbeh, so everyone had had breakfast in bed. Even [M/n] had chosen to stay in bed, Lloyd sprawled out on top of him.Â
Eventually Lloyd poked him in the side, âHmmmm?âÂ
âWill you teach me some cool ninja tricks?â
[M/n] hummed, opening an eye to peer down at Lloyd. âHow about I teach you to throw a proper punch and kick before I teach you any âcool ninja tricksâ.â
Lloyd flushed a little. âYouâll really teach me to punch?â
âI will. If something happens and Iâm not there to protect you, Iâd rather you be able to defend yourself.â
Jay grumbled, rolling over to bury his face under his pillow. Sighing, [M/n] silently ushered Lloyd off the bed before sliding off to silently land on the ground.Â
âGo down to the second training room, Iâll find you some clothes to wear for your first lesson,â [M/n] murmured, grabbing his own clothes rather than his GI. Lloyd nodded, hurrying away.Â
[M/n] popped open the chest at the bottom of Jayâs bed, pulling out a pair of shorts with drawstrings for Lloyd to use, then grabbed one of Nyaâs shirts from his own chest that she had given up for Lloyd to use. Heading out the door, he made his way down to the second training room, pushing open the door to find Lloyd trying to hit the punching bag. Raising a brow, he was forced to stifle a laugh when the punching bag swung back and knocked Lloyd over.Â
It took a moment for [M/n] to regain his composure as Lloyd began yelling at the punching bag, â-I see you lost the fight.â
Lloyd cut himself off with a yelp, âYou saw that?!â
âI did.â [M/n] held out the clothes. âChange into these, it will make it easier for you to practice."
Lloyd grinned, snatching the clothes. [M/n] turned back around to let the boy change real quick without leaving the room. With surprising speed, Lloyd was quickly tugging at the bottom of his shirt. âDone! Letâs go! Show me how to kick butt!â
âWeâll start with stretches, then punches, then kicks.âÂ
âStretches? Canât we start with the punches?â Lloyd whined, pouting.Â
[M/n] raised an eyebrow, âStretches are important. It is injury prevention, helps with flexibility and blood flow, improves your performance, and can decrease pain when you are trying new skills. If you choose not to stretch I simply wonât teach you.â Lloydâs eyes went wide.
âIâll stretch! Iâll stretch!âÂ
âGood. Weâll start easy. If you need help, ask. Donât keep doing it if you think youâre doing, understand?â
âUnderstood.âÂ
âRunnerâs Stretch is first.â [M/n] slowly got into position, allowing Lloyd to see how he was moving before gesturing for him to copy him. Through five separate stretches [M/n] led Lloyd, making sure he was doing them correctly without overextending.Â
When they finished, Lloyd flopped over and laid on the ground for a moment as [M/n] chuckled, standing up to fetch two bottles of water from the mini-fridge they kept in the training rooms.Â
âI still donât get why stretches are important.â
âWhenever you're practicing, if you have not properly stretched, you can tear your muscles. I am not sure of the actual science behind it, but I do know that it works.â [M/n] crouched in front of Lloyd, waiting patiently for him to finish drinking. âAre you ready?âÂ
âYeah!â Lloyd hopped up to his feet, only for [M/n] to gesture for him to sit down.Â
âTo understand how to throw a punch, Iâm first going to teach you how it works and where the power comes from. Do you understand what I mean?âÂ
âI guess. But canât I just throw a punch?âÂ
âBecause knowing where the power behind a punch comes from can help you do it properly. For example, you use the force of your arm which doesnât amount to much, compared to someone like me, who uses the weight of my whole body to punch. Who do you think hits harder?â
âYou.âÂ
âCorrect. Now, when you punch, do not aim for the target, or in a battle a person, aim for-â
âDonât aim for the person?!âÂ
âLet me finish. Aim for a point about 12 inches behind the target, because it will keep you from losing power in the punch, making sure you go through with the punch. Now, let me see your fist.â Lloyd made a fist, [M/n] reaching over to adjust. âPlace your thumb lower, across the middle section of your knuckles. This will make sure you donât break your thumb. When you throw a punch, donât hit with your ring and pinky, youâll break them, always hit with your pointer and middle finger. Keep your fist lined up with your wrist, or youâll break it.â
âWhyâs it so easy to break your hand?â
âThat would be a question for Zane, unfortunately.âÂ
The lesson took a good hour, [M/n] showing Lloyd the proper stance, how to aim, how to put power behind the punch, and so on. Luckily, Lloyd was a fast learner. Soon enough, he was happily punching the punching bag, only to nearly knock himself over.Â
âPractice your stance. That punching bag shouldnât knock you off your feet so easily, even if you are smaller,â [M/n] teased, chuckling.Â
âHey! Iâm not small!âÂ
[M/n] raised a brow, chuckling, âOf course, my apologies. 4â11 is tall, not short.â
âThatâs not funny,â Lloyd grumbled, trying to hide his smile. âCan I practice on the bag a little longer? I think Iâve got the hang of it.â
He hesitated, âI do not think-â
âIâll be careful!! I promise! And Iâll follow whatever rules you set!! Please,â Lloyd begged, elongating the âpleaseâ.Â
âAlright, alright,â [M/n] gave in. âBut you will follow the rules I give you, understand?â
âI will, I swear!â
âYou will only practice for a half hour at a time, with breaks that are also the same time. You will drink at least half a bottle during breaks as well. Iâll come back in an hour, if you want to stop before then, stretch. It doesnât matter how, just stretch. Iâll teach you better ones later, alright?â
âAlright!â
âRepeat it back to me.â
âOnly train for a half hour. Breaks are a half hour. I have to drink half a bottle of water for each break, and I have to stretch when Iâm done. Can I start now?âÂ
âFine.â [M/n] was hesitant to leave but he did trust Lloyd to listen now that the rules had been laid out for him. He just felt off. He had since the night before, as evidenced by KhĂšlaiâs appearance the night before.Â
Upstairs, he found Jay, Nya, and Kai snacking on Chicken Fried Rice, made from the leftover rice, karaage, and vegetables. There was also sandwich material and a simple egg drop soul - the soup had been placed in a resealable bowl so it wouldnât spill as they faced turbulence.
They had flown through a storm at some point, and the Bounty was swaying more than normal beneath their feet.Â
[M/n] noticed the multitude of scrolls spread between the siblings, all from Wuâs collection - far scarcer than it had once been.Â
âWhy is it that Torchfire Mountain is the only place we can destroy the Fangblades?" Nya asked, gesturing to one scroll as she sipped on her soup.Â
âCause the Fangblades are made from the original teeth of the Devourer. They're so strong they can only break down in extraordinary heat," Kai explained. "And Torchfire Mountain has the hottest lava out of any known volcano.â
[M/n] made himself a bowl of fried rice, then poured the soup over top, muffling a laugh at Nyaâs face.Â
Jay, who was slathering mustard on bread, suddenly asked, âUh, could someone pass the salt?" The ship tilted, salt sliding down the table right into his hand. Jay snickered, âHey, thanks.â
The door was shoved open, Cole stumbling inside with a distinct green shade to his face, âPlease. No one talk about food. How much longer until we get there?"Â
âNot long. Hey, Cole, you're looking a little green over there. How'd you like a mucus salt sandwich?" Cole gagged and fled to go throw up over the side of the ship. Jay snickered again before he was kicked in the shin, making him jerk and yelp. "Speaking of green, who would've guessed little Lloyd Garmadon would turn out to be the Green Ninja?â
âI know,â Nya agreed. âHe was such a brat to everyone. Well, except for you [M/n]. Heâs always been nice to you. It's hard to believe he's gonna become the greatest ninja that ever lived.â
âWhere is that little runt, anyways? Normally he's attached to you at the hip.â
âTraining. He wished to be taught how to throw a proper punch.âÂ
âOh yeah, he definitely needed that lesson," Jay snickered. [M/n]âs eyes cut to him.
âSo did you. I remember when kicks would put you on your ass.â
âWha-no-thatâs no-donât believe him!â Jay squawked, frantically waving his hands. Nya snorted, struggling to hide her laughter, but Kai had no such compunctions, cackling loudly.Â
Smirking, [M/n] glanced at the small clock on the wall. âI should check on him.â
âHow longâs he been at it?â Kai asked. âI mean, does he really need you to check up on him every 15 minutes?â
âItâs been nearly an hour,â [M/n] corrected sharply. âA young boy, eager to learn, left on his own to train. Sounds like a wonderful idea.â Nya snorted.
Before Kai could respond, [M/n] left the room. He spared a glance at the fat, grey clouds sparking with lightning, brow furrowing slightly. The storm seemed a prelude to something coming, the warmth in his chest flickering to his life. Turning back to the Bounty, he picked up the pace.Â
In the center of the ball of warmth was a string, thin but strong, tugging him down into the Bounty towards the training room Lloyd was in. When that clicked, he picked up his pace, hand dropping to the seaxe blade he had on his hip.Â
Pausing beside the door, he listened. Nothing. No punching sounds, no breathing, no crunch from the water bottles. Nothing. With a snarl, [M/n] shoved the door open, quickly passing through the frame.
Lloyd let out a muffled cry, attached to the punching bag by duck tape. A terrifying snarl escaped, but [M/n] forced himself to clear the room force, glad it was on the smaller side and only had a few weapons on racks, punching bags, and a single bench.
Crossing the room back to Lloyd, [M/n] ripped the tape from his mouth in one smooth motion. He yelped, wincing. âWhat happened?!â [M/n] demanded, flipping the seaxe around to begin carefully cutting away the heavily layered tape. There had to be at least 4 layers of tape.Â
Before Lloyd could answer, Nya came across the intercom, âWill everyone please place their seat back and tray table in the full upright and locked position? We have reached our destination: Torchfire Mountain. Give it a minute while we settle into position.â
The Bounty shuddered slightly.
âItâs Pythor!!â Lloyd cried, staying completely still. The ship began to tilt, as if it were turning, before lurching violently.
âÎłÎ±ÎŒÏÏÎż-!â His seaxe sliced through the last of the tape, Lloyd nearly falling out. Dropping the blade, he caught Lloyd, using his other hand to grab onto the bar of the punching bag, keeping them both from hitting the wall.
âPythors on the ship! We have to warn the others!â Lloyd looked around, spotting the intercom. âThe Intercom!â
âHold tight.â [M/n] pulled Lloyd up, getting his arms around his neck before he dropped to the wall, balancing awkwardly. âCan you reach it?â
âYeah.â He wiggled around, stretching over to press the button, âPythorâs on board!â
The Bounty stabilized, [M/n] barely managing to jump over so he was back on the ground. âAre you alright?â
âYeah, yeah, Iâm okay.â Lloyd quickly shook himself off, hurrying over to the wall to drag a bo staff from its place. âIâll distract Pythor.â
âLloyd-â
âI wonât fight! Just distract him! Give you time to get your weapons. I can handle this. Please,â Lloyd begged, a fire in his eyes.Â
Every instinct told him to say no, but logic said it was a smart plan. âYou will not fight. If he attacks, you run. I mean it, Lloyd, you run, no matter what.â
âI understand.â
âGo.â
Lloyd rushed off, [M/n] taking a detour to fetch his Golden Weapons and change into his GI, adjusting the raven head as he ran up the stairs. Nya nearly crashed into him, dressed in her Samurai Armor with a sharp gleam in her eyes â sheâd taken the attack on the Bounty as an attack on her.Â
âLloyd said Pythor, is he okay?â
âHeâs distracting Pythor right now.â
âHaka.â On deck, Nya ran to the side, Samurai Mech already rushing toward them.Â
âHey, I've grown up a lot!" Lloyd cried, swatting at Pythor with the staff. A low groan crawled up [M/n]âs throat seeing the direct disobedience to his orders, flicking out the blades.Â
âHm, puny strength, no fundamentals, sloppy footwork. You think you can defeat me?" Pythor asked as [M/n] crept through the shadows, eyes burning with rage.
âI'm not trying to defeat you. I'm just trying to keep you busy until the cavalry arrives." Nya's Mech landed behind Pythor as [M/n] slid from the shadows, Tessens out, black blades glinting in the sunlight. Pythor spun around, confidence melting away. In that same motion, Lloyd took the opportunity to punch the serpent right in the side, putting all 100lbs of him behind the blow. Pythor grunted, swaying as he folded slightly. âHaha, I hit him. I hit him, guys!"
Pythor hissed - furious and fearful - before forcibly calming himself, âOh, as much as I would like to play with your overgrown toys, I have a ride to catch." Smirking, Pythor dodged around the Mechs legs and made to fling himself overboard.
Before he could, [M/n] lunged, summoning thin clouds of Nether around the blades to slice through the tip of Pythor's tail. Screaming, Pythor fell from the Bounty, only to land on a platform carried by a Rattlecopter.Â
âNO!â Lloyd cried, realizing Pythor had pulled the Fangplades from a satchel at his side.Â
âCurse you, Ninja!" Pythor screeched, clutching at his tail. [M/n] bared his teeth in threat, a low growl building up in his chest.Â
Across the deck came screaming, startling the trio. Spinning around they saw the gangplank out with someone clinging to its edge, slipping even as they watched. Nya reacted quickly, shooting over to dive over the side of the Bounty to catch the group before they could fall into the boiling lava of Torchfire Mountain. [M/n] hid a shudder as they peered over the side of the Bounty, scars twinging when he saw the bubbling lava.
Nya returned, the four ninja near sliding off Nya to drop onto their knees, panting. âWe need . . . to get . . . the . . . ow . . . the Fangblades!â Jay gasped, near sprawling on the ground.Â
Wu was oddly silent, dropping down to the deck. [M/n] saw the strange look on his face, but didnât get the opportunity to ask as they migrated to the Bridge to follow Pythor. Once inside, Wu lost the odd look, quickly taking the lead.
âIf Pythor returns the Fangblades to the City of Ouroboros, he'll awaken the Great Devourer," Wu warned.
âWell Iâm not gonna let that happen,â Nya retorted, swinging the Bounty around. Everyone stumbled, not prepared for the sudden lurch.Â
âWhat can I do?âÂ
âYouâre staying with the Bounty,â [M/n] decided immediately, not even taking a second to think.Â
âWhat?! But I kick butt! You saw me punch him! I can help!â
âAbsolutely not.â [M/n] shook his head. âYouâll stay on the ship. That isnât up for debate.â
Zane took over, seeing his brother's agitation, âYou must learn patience, Lloyd. You may have punched Pythor, but it takes more than that to be a ninja.â
Wu seemed startled from his reverie, âPatience, hmm? It seems students have become the Masters.âÂ
[M/n] noted the odd way it was said, but ultimately ignored it.Â
Together the five ninja gathered at the railing down on deck, waiting impatiently for Nya to get closer so they would have less ground to cover when they jumped off.Â
âWhatâdya say we play a little catchup?â Jay asked.Â
âItâs my preferred game,â Cole cheered, throwing himself over the side. The others were quick to follow, brilliant flashes of light appearing as the five summoned their vehicles. Jay and [M/n] pulled up high, having an easier time catching up to the Rattlecopter which gave them the opportunity to see Pythor being dropped off.Â
âIâve got him in my sights,â Jay confirmed.
Suddenly the train began to change, green scales forming over the metal surface with a reptilian tail forming on the hand. âUhhh, what is that? A truck?â Kai questioned, a little alarmed.Â
Nya, with Wu, came flying down, âThat is no truck. That is a moving fortress.â
The tail piece lashed out, nearly sending Cole careening off the road as he yelled out in alarm. âMerda!â
âWatch out! Donât let it hit you!â Kai warned, dodging the swinging tail. âHow are we supposed to get close to that thing?â
âIf we want any chance at getting on that truck, we have to work together,â Cole declared, setting his jaw.Â
âIâve got an idea,â Nya said. âJay, [M/n], and I will distract it. Zane, get as close as you can and cool it off."Â
âGot it.â
âHeard.â
âLoud and clear.â
âMoving in.â [M/n] swooped in low, hovering just out of reach of the tail with Jay and Nya doing the same thing on either side.Â
âAlright, Iâm going in. Ninja go!â Zane jumped aboard the train, balancing on the back before he was able to freeze the tail with his Golden Shurikens. With one kick it shattered, falling away in hundreds of pieces. âGoodbye.â
âWoohoo! Nice one, Zane!â Jay cheered, releasing his concentration on his jet and landing on the top of the last train car. [M/n] followed, kneeling on the edge to reach down and help Zane climb up the side. âNow, letâs board this train.â
âLetâs split up,â Kai said, practically jumping up and down with excess energy. âLast one to the front is a rotten ninja.â He ran across the train as soon as he finished, taking the lead before everyone could process what he said.
Rolling his eyes, [M/n] ran across the train after Kai before dropping down into one of the cars. Inside he found two Serpentine, a Venomari and Fangpyre. With a practiced flick of his wrist, [M/n] unsheathed his Golden Tessens and lunged, blades slicing through the thinner scales of their neck before either had a chance to react.Â
Stalking through the next carts he found Serpentine unconscious already, and based on the ripped up seats and dented metal, he figured Cole had made it before he had. He was proven right when he entered the second-to-last car and found Cole waiting.Â
âLooks like I win.â
âCongratulations,â [M/n] deadpanned. âIs Pythor in there?âÂ
The roof was ripped off, both ninja tensing up in preparation. Nya grinned down at them, Kai peering over the ripped edge with a similar smug look.Â
âGood to see you all,â Wu greeted jovially.Â
âAww man,â Jay whined, entering the car with Zane.Â
The train jerked, Kai tumbling into the car where Zane caught him bridal style, much to everyone's amusement. âWoah!â
âHehe, nice catch, Zane,â Jay snickered.
[M/n]âs lips twitched, but he was more focused on the door into the next car.Â
âLast oneâs a rotten ninja,â Cole reminded him smugly.Â
âAh, fine. One more car to go. Pythors in there with the four Fangblades, right? So, whoâs first?â Kai asked.
[M/n] looked back, âMe.â
None of them noticed Wu dropping off Nyaâs Mech to slip out of their car, unhooking the engine car from the rest of the train. The sudden release had everyone thrown off balance, smacking into the seats and walls with Nya nearly losing control of her Mech.Â
âWhatâs going on?! Whatâs happening?! Whereâs Sensei?!â Jay screeched, clinging to the seats heâd been knocked into.Â
âSensei! What are you doing?!â Cole yelled, their car still propelled forward though it was slowing.
âMy destiny is to face Pythor alone. Your destiny is to look after Lloyd.â Their car slowed, the engine car pulling away.Â
âThis is turning into a habit with him. How do we get off this thing?" Kai asked, glaring into the distance.Â
âWhat was he talking about? His destiny? Has he mentioned that before?â [M/n] demanded.Â
âNo! Not once! Iâve never heard him mention anything like this!â Kai yelled. âWe have to catch up with them!â
[M/n] gritted his teeth, âNo. We stay here, wait for the Bounty. We donât know what weâre walking into and if Sensei thinks he canât handle it then we may not be able to help. Nya, how far is the Bounty?â
âFive minutes.â
Everyone settled down on the lip of the car.Â
âOkay, this is boring,â Nya grumbled.
A shadow passed overhead, the anchor dropping down to hook into the car they were in to drag them along.
âLloyd!âÂ
[M/n] was relieved, quickly standing on the platform so he wouldnât fall off the front as they were dragged along. Grinning, Nya activated the comm hidden in her bracelet to relay instructions to Lloyd.Â
In the early morning silence, before the other ninja woke, Lloyd quietly poked [M/n] to get the other's attention.
"Hmmm?"
"Will you teach me some cool ninja tricks? Like the ones you used yesterday," Lloyd whispered before he realized his mistake. [E/c] stared into green, disappointed that Lloyd had directly disobeyed him.Â
"I seem to remember telling you to close your eyes," [M/n] reprimanded, keeping his voice low. Lloyd looked away, figuring that meant he wouldn't be learning any cool moves as punishment. Above him [M/n] sighed. "You need to learn how to throw a punch."
Lloyd perked up instantly. "Really?" He tried to keep his voice down but Jay shifted and grumbled in annoyance.Â
"Yes, really. You'll have to find some clothes to work out in. Your normal clothes are too restrictive and your GI won't fit for some years."
The two climbed down from the bed, with [M/n] borrowing a pair of shorts from Jay for Lloyd since he was the thinnest of the ninja, before he borrowed a shirt from Nya. Once changed, [M/n] took over one of the inner training rooms for the day and set to teaching Lloyd stretches first.
While originally against learning so many different stretches, [M/n] was quick to drill into him the need for them, sparing no detail. He refused to send Lloyd into a fight without the basics within which a strong foundation was created.Â
Sufficiently stretched, he fixed Lloyd's atrocious posture and fists and taught him how to properly throw a punch. The boy was at first confused on how he would hold up against older opponents, but [M/n] explained that he would need other tricks to do that and for now, his priority would be escape. That had upset Lloyd, but [M/n] simply pointed out his face-off with the Serpentine the day before and how easily he could have been killed without his father's timely arrival.Â
After being reassured that Lloyd would stop after a half-hour and would come find him, [M/n] headed up to the dining room where Kai, Nya, and Jay were all eating breakfast and looking over several scrolls Wu had found.Â
During their training session, the Bounty had flown into a storm and the ship was rocking unsteadily.Â
"Why is it that Torchfire Mountain is the only place we can destroy the Fangblades?" Nya asked, lifting up one of the scrolls.
"'Cause the Fangblades are made from the original teeth of the Devourer. They're so strong they can only break down in extraordinary heat," Kai explained. "And Torchfire Mountain has the hottest lava out of any known volcano."
"Uh, could someone pass the salt?" Jay asked, just as the Bounty tipped to the side, sending the salt sliding down the table. Jay snickered to himself. "Hey, thanks."
The door was slammed open by Cole, who looked nauseous as he stumbled inside. "Please. No one talk about food. How much longer until we get there?"Â
"Not long. Hey, Cole, you're looking a little green over there. How'd you like a mucus salt sandwich?" Cole gagged and fled to go throw up over the side of the ship. Jay snickered before he was kicked in the shin, making him jerk and yelp. "Speaking of green, who would've guessed little Lloyd Garmadon turned out to be the Green Ninja?"
"I know. He was such a brat at first. Well, to everyone except you, [M/n]. It's hard to believe he's gonna become the greatest ninja that ever lived," Nya said, taking the opportunity to poke fun at [M/n].
"Where is that little runt, anyways? Normally he's attached to you at the hip," Kai pointed out.Â
"Training." [M/n] glanced up at the clock, and stood. "I need to check on him."
Leaving the others, he made his way through the still-swaying Bounty, taking note of the ominous atmosphere. When he turned down the hallway of the training room he'd utilized, he stopped. The training door was cracked when he knew he'd left it shut on his departure to keep anyone from distracting Lloyd.
The warmth in his chest crackled with heat, urging him forward. It made him wonder if it was sentient in any way, shape, or form.
Slipping inside, he became livid when he saw Lloyd taped to the punching bag with layers of duct tape. As soon as he came into sight, Lloyd began wiggling in place, crying out when the tape tugged painfully at his skin.
"Lloyd!" [M/n] crossed the room quickly, unsheathing one of his blades to cut through the tape.Â
"Will everyone please place their seat back and tray table in the full upright and locked position? We have reached our destination: Torchfire Mountain. Give it a minute while we settle into position," Nya announced over the intercom.Â
The blade in [M/n]'s hand had a hard time slicing through the thick layers of duck tape, making him snarl. Under his feet, the Bounty trembled before the entire ship began to tilt onto its side.Â
Lloyd shrieked as the tape gave way, tearing at his skin. [M/n] grabbed hold of the punching bag and Lloyd, swaying as the ship tilted further causing the equipment to slide into the wall.Â
"Pythors on the ship!" Lloyd cried, clinging to [M/n]'s hand. "We have to warn the others."
Nodding, [M/n] swung Lloyd towards the intercom until he was able to press the button and shout into it, "Pythor's on board!"
Not long after Lloyd's warning, the Bounty leveled back out, and [M/n] dropped to his feet as Lloyd fell onto his back with a groan.Â
Scrambling onto his feet, Lloyd pulled a bo staff from the wall, "I'll distract Pythor."
"Be careful, Lloyd."
Nodding, the boy headed upwards while [M/n] headed back to his room, running through the halls as fast as he could. Throwing open the door, he retrieved the Golden Tessens â still within their sheaths â and clipped them to his belt.Â
Running back up, he passed by Nya's room where he could hear her changing into her Samurai gear. As he approached the deck, he slowed before he could make it out even as the warmth urged him onward.
"Hey, I've grown up a lot!" Lloyd cried, swinging the bo staff wildly as Pythor dodged.Â
"Hm, puny strength, no fundamentals, sloppy footwork. You think you can defeat me?" Pythor asked as [M/n] crept through the shadows.Â
"I'm not trying to defeat you. I'm just trying to keep you busy until the cavalry arrives." Nya's Mech landed behind Pythor as [M/n] slid from the shadows, Tessens out, black blades glinting in the sunlight. Pythor spun around, his confidence melting away. Lloyd, taking the opportunity, punched Pythor in the side, making the snake stumble from the strength. "Haha, I hit him. I hit him, guys!"Â
Pythor hissed loudly, furious and fearful, before calming himself, "Oh, as much as I would like to play with your overgrown toys, I have a ride to catch." Smirking, Pythor dodged between the Samurai's legs and went to fling himself overboard.Â
[M/n] lunged and his Tessens sliced through the tip of Pythor's tail as he fell. The Anacondrai screamed as he fell, landing on a platform attached to a Rattlecopter.
"No!" Lloyd cried, realizing that the Fangblades were still in his hand.Â
"Curse you, Ninja!" Pythor screeched, clutching at his tail.Â
Across the deck, the ninja screamed as they began to fall. Nya was quick to take off and rescue them before they could fall into the bubbling lava of Torchfire Mountain. All four dropped to their knees, panting as sweat dripped.Â
"We need to get those Fangblades back," Jay said, dragging himself up.Â
Everyone gathered in the Bridge.Â
"If Pythor returns the Fangblades to the City of Ouroboros, he'll awaken the Great Devourer," Wu stated, shaking his head.Â
"Well, we're not gonna let that happen," Nya snapped, taking the wheel and directing the Bounty after the Rattlecopter.Â
"Oh, what about me?" Lloyd asked.
"You're staying with the Bounty."
"But did you see me punch him? I'm an asset. I kick butt," Lloyd protested.Â
[M/n] shook his head, crouching to be eye level with Lloyd, "You need to learn patience, ÏαÎčÎŽÎŻ. You do not yet have the training. You will stay on the ship."
"Patience, hmm? Ah, the student has become the teacher," Wu mused.
Together, the five ninja stood at the railing. "What do you say we play a little catch-up?" Jay asked.
"It's my favorite game." Cole whooped as he threw himself over the side. Laughing, the other three followed as [M/n] rolled his eyes.Â
Jay and [M/n] flew high, meaning they were the first to spot the transformed truck. "I've got him in my sights," Jay reported, spotting the Rattlecopter as it hovered over said truck to let Pythor off.Â
"What is that? A truck?" Kai asked, coming up behind it.
"That is no truck. It is a moving fortress," Wu warned, and just in time.Â
The strange tailpiece lashed out at Cole, nearly knocking him off the road.
"Argh!" Cole shouted. "Cazzo!"
"Watch out! How are we supposed to get close to that thing?" Kai asked, swerving as it swung his way.Â
"If we have any chance at getting on that truck, we need to work together," Cole stated.
"I've got an idea," Nya said, flying beside them in the mech. "Jay, [M/n], and I will distract it. Zane, get as close as you can and cool it off."
"Got it."
"Heard."
"Moving in."
[M/n] swooped low over the tail as Jay and Nya did the same, keeping its attention on them until there was an opening for Zane.Â
"Okay, I'm going in. Ninja, go!" Zane jumped aboard the truck, before using his shuriken to completely freeze the tail. In one blow it shattered, falling to the road. "Goodbye."
"All right. Nice one, Zane. Now let's board that truck." Jay dropped onto the truck with [M/n], jet and copter disappearing.Â
"Let's split up. Last one to the front is a rotten ninja," Kai bet, taking off across the roof.Â
Smirking, [M/n] followed before he dropped into the next car. Only two Serpentine stood within and both tried to flee when they saw just which ninja had appeared.Â
He dispatched them quickly before moving on. He found Cole in the second to last cart, looking smug as he saw the purple slip inside.Â
"Looks like I win."
"Congratulations." The roof was suddenly ripped apart, making both ninja tense and ready their weapons. Nya grinned when she saw the two, letting the others all hop down though Kai stayed up with her.
"Good to see you all," Wu greeted.Â
The train jerked violently, knocking Kai off the roof and into Zane's arms as everyone stumbled slightly, catching themselves.
"Whoa!" Kai yelped.
"Heh. Nice catch, Zane," Jay giggled, as Kai began to redden.
"Last one's a rotten ninja," Cole reminded him, smug.
"Ah, so be it. But one more car to go. Pythor's in there with the four Fangblades. Who's first?" Kai asked, looking around.Â
Wu, who had slipped away while they joked, unhooked the cars from each other.Â
"Sensei!" Jay shouted, alarmed as the car shifted beneath them.Â
"What are you doing?" Cole demanded, steadying himself.
"My destiny is to face Pythor alone. Your destiny is to look after Lloyd," Wu stated, as the main car pulled away. They were left behind, slowing down with no engine to continue pulling them along.Â
"This is turning into a habit with him. How do we get off this thing?" Kai asked, glaring into the distance.Â
"We don't know what we're going to be walking into," [M/n] said, sitting on the lip of the small platform that led outside. "We shall wait for Lloyd and the Bounty in case anything goes wrong."
The next few minutes were silent as they waited for the Bounty to catch up.
"This is really boring," Nya mumbled, just in time for a shadow to fall over them. As it passed, the anchor dropped down and sank into the side of the truck, dragging it along behind them.
"Lloyd!"Â
[M/n] allowed the corner of his lips tick up as he stood. Nya activated her bracelet - turning on the comm hidden inside of it - to relay instructions to Lloyd. "To Ouroboros, Lloyd, as fast as you can."Â
"Aye, aye, captain," Lloyd chirped, pushing the Bounty as fast as she could go.
Within a few minutes they came upon the crashed remains of the engine car, worrying them all.Â
"Okay, Lloyd. Put us down right after that truck," Kai ordered. The anchor unhooked itself from the car, but was not pulled up to the Bounty as they expected.Â
"Wait for me," Lloyd called, sliding down said anchor. Letting go, he landed in [M/n]'s open arms, receiving a sharp, admonishing look before he was set down.
Everyone ran towards the arena of Ouroboros, ignoring the trembling in the ground. In the center, upon the mural of runes carved into the stone were Wu, holding Pythor in place, and Pythor, struggling violently against the man's grip, panicking.Â
The ground broke into pieces, revealing glowing purple eyes that held no pupil to distinguish its gaze.Â
"What's going on? Who's that creature underground?" Kai asked, fearfully. Lloyd clung to [M/n]'s GI, knuckles going white from the force of his grip.Â
"You must do everything in your power to stop the Great Devourer. Go, ninja! Go!" Wu shouted, as the Devourer rose to her full height.Â
The day after Zane cleared [M/n] a singular Serpentine was spotted in Ninjago after being seen stealing from a stand - when the Serpentine had completely disappeared after the Fire Temple fight. [M/n] was forcibly stopped from going, with Lloyd clinging to his waist in the hopes he wouldnât leave. Reluctantly he stayed behind, though he did send KhÄlai with them to make sure they didnât end up in trouble.Â
He did stay up in the Bridge, listening to the ninja using the open comms, with Lloyd sat beside him reading more of his comics and Garmadon towering over them.Â
âGoing somewhere?â Cole asked, taunting the Serpentine.Â
A moment of silence, static filling the room.
âThought you could joyride through town and not be noticed, eh? Where's the last Fangblade?" Jay demanded.Â
Unfortunately they couldnât hear the Serpentineâs response.
âYeah. The fourth Fangblade. When Pythor finds them all, he plans to unleash the Great Devourer," Kai snapped.
âThey must be playing dumb,â Nya mumbled, brow furrowing. A much longer period of silence followed.
âUhh, doesnât that mean it will devour you too? Since itâs the Great Devourer and all,â Jay pointed out.Â
Tense silence.
âIs it really too late to stop Pythor from getting the last Fangblade?" Kai asked. Everyone in the room shifted, even Lloyd stopped reading his comics glancing up to the blank screen. âBounty, weâre coming back. Weâll share what weâve learned when we make it back.â
They waited in the Bridge in tense silence, when the others came back to share what had been said.
âDid they reveal the location of the next Fangblade?â Wu questioned.
âNot in so many words. They did tell us that we were too far behind the Pythor and that even if we were to go after him it would be too late,â Zane explained, frowning slightly. He inputted the location for Nya.
Pulling it up on the map, Nya frowned, âThe Venomari's right. By the time we cast sail clear across the other side of Ninjago, Pythor will have already beat us to the last Fangblade." On the map the four locations of the Fangblades had been marked in red, showing just how far away they were from the last location.Â
Lloyd, pushing his comics into a pile, curled up against [M/n]âs side.Â
âOh, come on, guys. This is the last one. We gotta get it. We gotta think of something.âÂ
âAll we have to do is just get one Fangblade to stop him, right? What if we take back the other three instead? Pythor wouldn't risk having them all on him. He's probably hidden them somewhere while he goes for the fourth.â Everyone stared at him, shocked. [M/n] hummed and Garmadon grinned, proud of Lloyd.Â
âĂ cosĂŹ semplice,â Cole whispered, eyes wide. (It's so simple.)
âWhy didnât I think of that?â Kai grumbled.
âIt canât be that easy. Can it?â Jay tugged at his sleeves, looking between everyone.
âUnfortunately it may seem easy, but it will not be easy.â
â[M/n] is correct. My algorithms suggest taking the other Fangblades would be far more dangerous. Pythor would undoubtedly have them defended by the Generals and his top soldiers.â
âFinally. I wonât have to hold back anymore.â
âHow are you going to steal the Fangblades when you do not know where they are?â Garmadon asked, pointing out the flaw in their plan.Â
Wu sighed, âMy brother is right. Since the Temple there have been no Serpentine sightings. We have no way of finding them if they move like theyâre ghosts.â
Nya eyes lit up,âOr like snakes. Bridge, give me a sonar sweep of Ninjago.â Nothing out of the ordinary showed up.
âSee, nothing. Itâs just like Sensei said.â
âLet her finish,â [M/n] said.
âThat is a sonar sweep of the ground. But what if they arenât aboveground? Theyâre snakes, arenât they? And snakes burrow. Now, Bridge give me a sonar sweep of Ninjago, twenty feet below the surface.â
The map showed, as Nya had guessed, tunnels about twenty feet below that connected the tombs to form a singular, massive fortress.Â
[M/n]âs grip on Lloyd tightened, actually pulling Lloyd closer on accident, as he stared at the screen, the room going quiet.Â
âThatâs-All the tombs, theyâre connected,â Kai whispered.Â
âIt makes one impenetrable fortress,â Zane realized.
âAnd all this time, right under our noses,â Cole mumbled, swaying slightly.Â
âHehehe, or feet. Right under our feet.âÂ
Kai pointed at the massive cavern in the center of the interconnected tunnels, the heat signature showing many Serpentine, âThere, thatâs the most protected area. The Fangblades must be held there.âÂ
âThen what are we waiting for? Nya, set the course.âÂ
âAlready on it. Weâll be there at dawn.â
Lloyd had the dawning realization of what was about to happen when [M/n] stood, obviously planning to prepare himself for a battle with the rest of the Ninja. âWha-wait, what are you doing?âÂ
[M/n] paused, âLloyd-â
âYouâre still injured! You canât be fighting!âÂ
He kneeled to be eye level, âLloyd, Zane cleared me and the only reason I did not go with them is because you asked me not to. A singular Serpentine did not need all five of us. But this? They will need help.â
âBut-â
âButts are for sitting,â [M/n] said, resting a hand on his head. âWe cannot allow the Fangblades to remain in Pythor's possession. I have to go.âÂ
Lloyd slumped, looking away. âI donât want you to go.â
âI know you do not, but I must. If I want to keep you safe, I have to go with them to retrieve the Fangblades.â
âOkay.âÂ
[M/n] carefully gathered Lloyd into a tight embrace, the boy sinking into him and going near limp.Â
âCan I stay with you tonight?â Lloyd asked, muffled slightly with the way his face buried in [M/n]âs shoulder.Â
âOf course.âÂ
In one easy movement [M/n] stood, lifting Lloyd easily to carry him towards the dining room to wait for Nya to finish up dinner. Lord Garmadon followed behind, having remained silent the whole time, carrying Lloydâs comics along.Â
Lloyd was reluctantly occupied with his comics as they sat at the table, the ninja excited about the opportunity to take the Fangblades from right under Pythor's nose. Dinner was Chicken Fried Rice, Ginseng and Chicken Soup, and Green Onion Cakes. Most of it had been left on the burner while the ninja were chasing down the Serpentine, but everything was still good.Â
As agreed, Lloyd shared [M/n]âs bunk, with Lord Garmadon sleeping beneath them.
The next morning came sooner than anyone was prepared for, but they all climbed out from their beds and got dressed, preparing for the battle ahead. Wu had everyone up on deck going through their training one more time in preparation, even Nya.Â
âThere is no room for error. The Serpentine have shown that they have great powers, and to combat them, you must turn their greatest strengths into their greatest weaknesses. Kai, how will you defeat the Hypnobrai?" Wu asked.Â
Kai tugged a blindfold over his eyes, âTheir hypnotizing powers are useless if their opponent can fight without relying on his eyes." With ease, Kai began running through his katas, memorizing the feel of fighting without his eyes.
âGood. Jay, the Fangpyre is fast and his bite sharp."
âBut if he can't bite through your skin-" Jay tapped the armored sleeve on his right arm. "-he can't turn you into one of them."Â
âYes. Cole, the Constrictai are strong," Wu stated, pressing a button to send a net at Cole who became ensnared. "And they will not let go."
âBut instead of fighting back, one must try to loosen up." Instead of fighting back against the netting, Cole relaxed his muscles and allowed the net to slide right off him. Grinning, he did a little dance that made everyone snicker. "And a little soft shoe doesn't hurt."
âZane, the venom of the Venomari can make you see things. Cloud your perception.âÂ
âThen I will use my new Falcon Vision." The Falcon swooped overhead as Zane's eyes went completely blue. On graceful wings the Falcon swept towards Zane, landing on his shoulder to peer at them.
âVery good. [M/n], the Anacondrai have impenetrable scales, and the ability to disappear. How will you catch him?âÂ
âEvery impenetrable armor has a weak spot, a Fathrim's Heel. One I can and will exploit. And Pythor is a coward, he will turn tail and flee rather than face me.âÂ
âGood. I have trained you well. You are all ready.âÂ
âWhat about you, Sensei? Will you fight?â Kai asked, pulling off the blindfold. âWe need all the help we can get.â
Wu shook his head, âMy concern is that my old bones cannot keep up, but I will be there in spirit.â
[M/n] listened to his teacher, but paid more attention to his belt, where he was working on adjusting the different knives. He paused, hearing Lloyd coming his way, but continued to fix the sheaths, making sure they wouldnât be caught in his GI when he moved around.Â
âWe're arriving at the Mountain of a Million Steps. You all might want to see this," Nya reported, using the intercom. Confused, everyone made their way to the railing only to stare in shock at the ground below.Â
In order to dig out the tunnels, the Constrictai had left behind piles of dirt that were absolutely huge, easily taller than any of them.Â
âLook at all that dirt,â Jay mumbled, eyes wide.Â
âWhy in the Underworld are those piles so big? What in the Underworld were they bringing down there?â Kai demanded.
âAn army,â [M/n] responded, eyes narrowed slightly. Glancing down, his eyes widened slightly. On the way over heâd been paying more attention to what Nya had wanted than Lloyd following along at his side, so he hadnât realized the boy was wearing the Green GI until now.
âIâm coming too,â Lloyd declared, a fire in his eyes.Â
âAbsolutely not,â Lord Garmadon retorted.Â
âThis is not your fight, Nephew,â Wu refused, frowning. He kneeled before the boy, rolling the sleeves and pants since they were too long for him and he didnât want him to trip. [M/n] adjusted the buckles across the chest and back of the GI to hold up the rest of the fabric. âThe Green Ninja is too important to risk. You are too important to risk. You shall stay with me and your father.â
Nya landed the Samurai Mech on deck, âWell, he's gonna have to look after himself, because we made room for you." The hatch popped open so she could gesture to the chair now welded to the shoulder of her mech. Wu couldnât help the way he lit up.
âWell, we guessed that would be your answer so Jay and Nya rejiggered the design so you could come along. So, whaddya think?â Kai asked.
âI think . . . Shotgun!! Haha!!â Wu easily hopped up into the chair, the ninja laughing at his excitement. Lloyd scowled, looking away. [M/n] rested a hand on the boy's head.
âWu is right. This is not your fight, and you should not be in such a rush to grow up. Your fight will come one day,â [M/n] comforted. âBe a child, Lloyd, spend time with your father, convince him to teach you a game, anything other than this. We will be back as soon as we are able. Have fun, ÎÎčαÎșΏΎα.âÂ
[M/n] stood, adjusting the raven's head pauldron on his shoulder in the process.Â
âI will stay back with Lloyd. I donât enjoy saying this, but . . . good luck.â Lord Garmadon offered a slight incline of his head as he came to stand behind Lloyd.Â
Nodding, the ninja disembarked, sliding down a rope that Cole had hooked between a rock and the Bounty, one by one. Nya used her Mech to cross the divide, landing before the entrance to the Constrictai Tomb, and lowering herself in behind the rest. The cavern was empty.
âYou said this place would be heavily guarded, Zane,â Jay accused, looking around with a scowl.Â
âForgive me. Even Nindroids make mistakes.â
Cole spotted the hieroglyphs on the wall, noticing the new ones on a wall that had been previously blank, âHey, check this out.â
They all approached the wall, realizing the five new hieroglyphs were actually carvings of the five of them. Jay scowled at the inaccurate portrayal of himself, âOh, come on. That doesnât even look like me.â
âUgh, theyâre gonna pay for that,â Kai grouched, sending his sister a sharp look as she snickered. [M/n] was unsurprised by the likeness of his carving, finding amusement in the accuracy.
âThatâs not fair! How come [M/n]âs is so accurate?!â Jay demanded, throwing his hands up.Â
âThey are afraid of him. Why would they try to further enrage him?âÂ
âThey could have given me a better baffi,â Cole added, reaching over to scrub at the mustache as if to wipe it away. Instead, he pushed the mustache into the wall. They all watched in silence as the wall opened inwards, revealing a tunnel behind it. âUh, I meant to do that.â
In a line, they followed the tunnel, staying in the shadows and keeping quiet. They followed it down into the inner sanctum, a room several times larger than the Constrictai Tomb with over two hundred Serpentine roaming free, each carrying different weapons and wearing traditional armor.Â
In the center of the sanctum, surrounding the podium where the Fangblades were sat, were the four Generals and Pythor. All five were wearing their finest clothing and armor, weapons polished.Â
[M/n]âs eyes narrowed, âÎÏÎżÎčÎŒÎŹÎ¶ÎżÎœÏαÎč." (They are preparing.)
âThereâs too many to deal with at once,â Kai said, scowling. He had been itching for a fight. âWe should stick to the shadows.â
âYeah, sneak the Fangblades away from right under their noses,â Jay agreed, grinning.Â
Nya snorted, âRight behind you.âÂ
âAnd Iâll be right behind you,â Wu added, giggling to himself like a little school girl.Â
Kai gestured for [M/n] to lead, much to his surprise, but the red ninja wanted to do better and knew, at least in this, that the other was better at stealth. Crossing the entrance, [M/n] led them to a ledge that would get them to a tall cluster of rocks so they could climb down, believing it to be the best path.
The foot of Nyaâs Mech slipped, sending rocks and pebbles crashing to the ground below, alerting the whole sanctum of their presence. Hundreds of eyes turned to the ledge, the ninja all stilling in surprise.Â
âAll right, Operation Stealth was a total bust. We're gonna need reinforcements. Anyone there?" Nya asked, comming the Bounty. Below the Serpentine were unsheathing weapons, grouping together into six distinct groups. âLloyd? Lord Garmadon? Can anyone hear me? Ugh, I'm not getting anything."
[M/n] growled, hood hiding most of his face. Unsheathing the Golden Tessens, blades gleaming in the low light, he readied himself.
âForget them. We need to fight back. Ninja, show them what you've learned!â
Everyone leapt into the battle below, separating once they made into the thong of Serpentine below. [M/n] purposefully put space between him and the other ninja, making sure to keep the killing separate from the others as a courtesy. Members from all the Tribes surrounded him, keeping their distance at first.Â
One wrongly assumed that the new scars meant he had a new blindspot and tried to use it to creep up on him, but was quickly taken out, blades slicing through their neck.Â
[M/n] waded through the Serpentine, making sure all who fell were dead, so they couldnât rise up again. Using bĆ shuriken, he managed to force back the Venomari, their venom too dangerous in close quarters, but that meant he focused on those around him, not the ones hanging back.
Using the other Serpentine as shields, a Venomari lifted a specialized blowgun to fire a dart into the exposed skin of his wrist - revealed when he flicked his Golden Tessens to throw the bĆ shuriken. Hissing, he quickly pulled it free and dropped it to the cavern floor.Â
It was likely laced with something and he didnât want it in his skin any longer.
However, continuing to fight was his only option. Ducking through the crowd of Serpentine, he made his way towards the closest person - Cole. Twisting out of reach, [M/n] stumbled, missing a step heâd taken a hundred times.Â
That was only the beginning.Â
The numbness began at his wrists and hands, making it difficult for him to even hold his weapons. Before long it completely took over his arms and shoulders, the Golden Tessens clattering to the ground.Â
Growling, [M/n] did his best fight them off, but the numbness was still spreading across his chest. It made it hard to breathe or hold his head up. So he wasnât able to see that he was being dragged towards a cage, specifically built for them.Â
He was dropped, unceremoniously, onto the floor of the cage and then did not move. Zane thought he was going to have a heart attack - if a Nindroid could, that is - when he was dropped and didnât move, breaths coming in soft wheezes. Rushing over, he kneeled at his friend's side, â[M/n]! What happened? Are you alright? Where is the wound?âÂ
âPoison,â [M/n] slurred, tongue heavy, mouth feeling like it was stuffed with cotton. âParalysis.â
Zaneâs brow furrowed, concern etched on his face, âYour breathing sounds labored, does your chest feel tight? Like you cannot breathe?âÂ
âY-yes.âÂ
âIâm going to lay you down,â Zane said, gesturing for Nya to come over. âProp his head up and keep an eye on his breathing.âp
âOkay,â Nya agreed, carefully helping Zane lower [M/n], resting his head on her knees as she pressed her pointer and ring finger against his pulse.Â
With quick movement Zane worked to undo the others GI, worrying that his lungs would seize from the poison. If that happened, he would need access to his chest to do compressions. Unfortunately there wasnât much else for him to do. Until he either stopped breathing or the poison wore off Zane was unable to really help.Â
âIs-Is he . . .â Nya trailed off, genuinely really worried.Â
âI do not know. Without knowing the poison, I have no way of knowing the effects or how to help.âÂ
âThen what do we do?â Cole asked, brow furrowed.Â
âKeep an eye on him.âÂ
[M/n], eyes closed, listened to them all talk as if he wasnât there. But it wasnât as if he could talk all that well at the moment. It was sheer luck that his legs werenât completely paralyzed.Â
âWe need to contact the Bounty,â Wu decided. âMy brother can get us out of here so we can take care of [M/n].â
Nya looked behind her, âHey, my Mech! We can use the rocks on the floor to push the comm button.â
âThatâs perfect!â Kai quickly began gathering the pebbles from the floor to pass a few to his sister so they could toss them at the mech.Â
âIâll hold up his head,â Cole offered, letting Nya pull herself out from [M/n]. Glancing down, Cole saw the look in [M/n]âs eyes and snickered slightly.Â
Nya took the rest of the pebbles from Kai, seeing she was the better thrower, and began tossing them at her mech's controls.Â
âLloyd? Lord Garmadon? Is anyone there?â Over and over she asked with no answer. For several minutes there was nothing, [M/n] feeling his heart drop.Â
Finally an answer came through, âIt's me, Nya. I'm here. But my dad left. How are you guys holding on?" Nya threw a stone to answer, but missed and had to scramble for another pebble as Lloyd panicked. âNya? Hello?"Â
âSorry, but . . . well, we ended up captured. They were ready for us, and now . . . weâre a little held up. Our weapons have been taken, [M/n]âs been poisoned, and weâre locked in a cage, so itâs been fun. The whole thing was a trap.â
âAnd Pythor just returned with the fourth Fangblade,â Cole added, peering down at the returning Serpentine.Â
Lloydâs voice came through, tinged with panic and fear, âPoisoned?! Is [M/n] alright?!â
Zane answered for [M/n], throwing a rock with precision, "He is alright for the moment. It seems to be paralysis, which includes the loss of his ability to speak clearly. But he is breathing and stable."
âLloyd, where is my brother? Why was he not the one to answer our comms?âÂ
âI-I told him to leave. He was trying to steal secrets.â
Kai began gloating, [M/n] wishing the poison would abate faster so he could kick his ass. âOh, big surprise there. I told you about that guy, but you guys wouldnât listen-â
âMy dad's going back to where he came from. But don't worry, I'll save you," Lloyd stated, unable to hear Kai's rant.
âN-no-â [M/n] choked out, forcing his tongue to work. Nya, hearing him, threw another rock but it was Cole who answered.Â
âDonât even think about it, Lloyd.â
Wu added, âYou're not ready, Lloyd. Your destiny is too great to risk."
âDo we have any other choice?â Jay asked, anxiously tugging at his GI. âLord Garmadon canât come save us, and weâre all stuck in here. Lloydâs our only option. But if he saves us, we can kick Pythor's butt!â
âUgh, I'll get you out of there in a jiff." The sound of the comm turning off was final.Â
[M/n]âs heart picked up its pace, the drumming drowning out everything around him. His breathing came with more difficulty, the panic making it feel like his lungs were no longer working. Said panic was noticeable, breaths coming in shorter and audible.Â
Zaneâs eyes widened, â[M/n], you must calm down. Panicking will only make it more difficult to breathe.â Cole looked between the two in distress, unsure of how to help. âCalm, please.â
Struggling to listen, [M/n]âs eyes fell closed again.Â
âDeep breath in, slow breath out,â Zane instructed, voice quiet and level. âDeep breath in, slow breath out.â
[M/n] followed his instructions, breaths coming out unsteady until they eventually calmed, though they werenât as deep as they should be, the poison still paralyzing his chest and throat.Â
It was only a few minutes after heâd calmed that Pythor started up a grand speech down below, standing before the podium that held the four Fangblades, âTogether, we have taken back the four Fangblades. When we return them to the City of Ouroboros, together we will unleash the Great Devourer!" The crowd cheered. "To the City of Ouroboros!"
A pause. The Generals spoke in low tones to their King.Â
âBut tonight, we celebrate with a Slither Pit!" The crowds grew even louder, a fight starting up quickly.Â
Jay, bored to tears, gathered 24 random objects across the bottom of the cage, before using a particularly sharp stone to scratch out a checkers board beside Cole. The two began playing a game of checkers beside [M/n]âs head, the ninja giving a raspy sigh before ignoring what was happening.Â
Kai, just as bored, began pacing the length of the cell. Nya rolled her eyes at Kai, scooting closer to the others to observe the game of checkers alongside Zane. Wu sat to the side, meditating deeply until he was disturbed by Kaiâs constant movement.
âPatience, Kai. Lloyd will figure something out.â
âWe're putting all of our trust into the son of the greatest villain Ninjago has ever seen? Uh, is anyone else having doubts about this plan? Just because we don't have our weapons doesn't mean we can't use our powers. We just need to focus."Â
[M/n] growled, the sound awkward with his throat partially paralyzed.
âThis cell was built out of Vengestone, rendering our Elemental Powers useless. Patience,â Wu repeated. Irritated, [M/n] shifted his legs to a more comfortable position - both remaining partially unparalyzed for some reason - noticing the tingling that had accompanied the poison finally fading from his face.Â
Kai sighed again, back to pacing. It only took five more minutes for him to get too impatient. He stalked over to the Checkers group, snatching up a banged up hair oil Jay had found.
âHey, that hair oil was about to be kinged," Jay complained, throwing his hands up as his piece was taken.Â
âYeah, well, your âkingâ is about to be my ticket out of here,â Kai retorted, popping off the cap to smear it all over his GI much to everyone's disgust.Â
âWhoah, ingrassatore. Warning next time?â Cole groaned, covering his eyes. [M/n] kept his eyes closed, a shudder running through his shoulders at the sound of the hair oil.Â
âMake all the jokes you want, but I don't think we need our special powers to get out of here. Just a little ingenuity.â [M/n] reluctantly opened his eyes, head lolling slightly to give him a better view of Kai.Â
With a grunt of pain, Kai managed to shove himself through the gap in the bars and balance on the outer lip of the cage, clinging to the bars.Â
Jayâs brows shot up, âHe actually made it."
âLook at that," Zane mumbled.
âAlright ingrassatore. Now what?"Â
âNow, help me get this cage moving so I can get our stuff,â Kai hissed. Agreeing everyone climbed to their feet, Cole carefully setting [M/n]âs head down, and began running back and forth.Â
[M/n] braced his feet, jika-tabi sliding as the cage swung back and forth. âItâs working! Keep going,â Nya urged, excited.Â
âHarder, faster,â Cole insisted.Â
âCome on, faster, more speed,â Jay added.Â
âNext one and I've got it. Push."Â
[M/n] heard the slide of scales on stone and called out a warning, âKai, wait!â It was strangled, barely understandable, and too late, Kai already mid-leap. Landing on the small ledge, Kai tipped back only to be grabbed by the front of his GI.
âUh, uh, uh. Trying to escape, are we?" Pythor tutted.
âHeh. I bet this looks kind of bad, doesn't it?âÂ
He was forcibly dragged back into the cell, several other Serpentine marching inside to cuff the rest of the ninja to the bars of the cage, only leaving [M/n] on the floor - believing the purple ninja to be completely paralyzed since he was laying still on the floor. Everyone was left far grumpier than before.Â
âGreat, we're in such a better place than we were before,â Cole mocked, eyes rolling.
âAnd now we cannot even play checkers," Zane lamented, shaking his head. He'd been looking forward to his turn.
âI was gonna be kinged, Kai," Jay complained, sulking.
âNya, who had been chained to a bar beside [M/n], reached over to rest a hand on his knee. âDon't worry, [M/n]. I have faith in Lloyd. Besides, Lord Garmadon loves him, I doubt he'll let his son fight alone."
[M/n] sighed, quietly agreeing.Â
Sprawled on the cage floor, [M/n] began to meditate as best he could. In doing so, he was able to track the progress of the poison, finding it already fading from his [D/A], face, and chest, only remaining in his [Nd/A], which worked in his favor.Â
Slowly he rolled to the side, getting his good arm beneath him to push himself up. His legs buckled slightly, but the paralysis had only made it to his thighs. Pausing, in a kneel, he tilted his head.Â
From the tunnel they'd come from, a faint voice whispering to themselves. âWhoosh. Ninja roll. Flying Dragâ" Lloyd tripped â likely over a rock based on the clattering sound it made â but quickly recovered. "Whoa! Ninja recover! Whoosh. Ninja roll.âÂ
His head snapped to the side, seeking out the tunnel's entrance, âLloyd.â
Kai sat up a little, confused. âLloyd? WherâThere! There he is.âÂ
Lloyd stopped, hiding behind a cluster of tall rocks, murmuring encouragement to himself as [M/n] stood, âCome on, Lloyd. You're the Green Ninja. You can do this.âÂ
When Lloyd went to make his way down the path he tripped again, yelping as he went tumbling down. [M/n] couldnât help the panicked noise that escaped him, peering out between the bars after stumbling to them, clinging to the bars with tingling fingers.Â
âWell, if we don't meet again, Pythor. Unhand the ninja, or suffer humiliation against the Green Ninja!âÂ
Growling between his teeth, [M/n] crouched back down and pulled out a small lockpick kit. Popping it open, he set to work on Nyaâs chains, knowing that she knew how to pick locks - heâd been the one to teach her that particular skill.Â
Below, the Serpentine cackled, laughing right in Lloydâs face as the boy faltered.Â
âOh, yeah? You and what army?"Â
âUh, how about my army of fists?â Lloyd threw a sloppy punch, knocking himself off balance.Â
âOr this army?" Lord Garmadonâs voice boomed throughout the cavern, everyone's gaze quickly jumping to him. The terrifying man stood at the entrance, an army of Skulkin behind him.Â
âDad!âÂ
âLloyd, you helped me realize I do have a choice. And if there is anyone who is going to threaten Ninjago, it better well be me!âÂ
âThe Skeleton army? But why would they fight beside you? You betrayed them and Samukai long ago!âÂ
âBecause everybody hates snakes!" Kruncha shouted, shaking a bony fist.
"Attack!"
"Attack!â
As the two armies clashed, the lever that lowered the cage was hit and they began to drop towards the pit of acid below. With a final click, [M/n] freed Nya, who snatched up the lockpick kit to pull out a different tool.Â
âHey, we're moving,â Jay realized, perking up. Cole twisted to look out between the bars.Â
âYeah, the wrong way," Cole snapped, offering his arm so [M/n] could get to the shackle.Â
âLloyd!â Nya yelled, seeing the boy racing between the fighters to get to them. It took all of [M/n]âs concentration not to whip around, chest burning as his arms twitched.Â
Just as [M/n] unlocked Cole, Nya freeing Kai, Lloyd pushed the lever and the cage came to a trembling stop only a few feet above the acid.Â
âPlease hurry, please hurry, please hurry,â Jay chanted, squirming uncomfortably. Cole and Kai unlocked Wu and Jay, [M/n] working on the cage door as Lloyd anxiously waited, wringing his hands.Â
Once unlocked, the purple ninja flung open the door and leaped the short distance, scooping up Lloyd, even as his lungs stuttered, still partially paralyzed.Â
Kneeling, he cradled Lloyd close, squeezing just on the side of the too tight but the boy didnât mind, trying to squeeze back just as tightly.Â
Nya released their Golden Weapons and her Samurai Mech, passing the weapons to their holders. The others dove right into the fight but [M/n] chose to stay with Lloyd, releasing the boy to stand over him. Blades out, the Tessens reflected the eerie green glow of the acid.Â
No Serpentine dared to approach, the mere sight of the purple ninja had many trying to flee deeper into the battle in case they ranged too close.Â
His eyes, shadowed by his mask, gleamed in the low light - many of the Serpentine felt an almost primal sense of fear, like they were snakes being hunted by a raven.Â
âWeâve got the Fangblades! Time to go!â Kai bellowed, fighting his way back to [M/n] with all the others.Â
Crouching, [M/n] gestured for Lloyd to climb onto his back, the boy doing so without question, even as he looked around for his dad.Â
Without waiting for the others, [M/n] made his way to the tunnel entrance. While he didnât outright go after those in his way, he certainly didnât make it easy to move or flee. Fueled by anger, he had no problem applying enough force to leave gouges in scales and even take off fingers.
The others raced to catch up, but the purple ninja left them in the dust. By the time Lord Garmadon climbed onto the ship, [M/n] was already standing on deck, hands on Lloydâs shoulders.Â
Nya, having raced straight to the bridge, pulled them away from the mountain, driving them up into the clouds before they could be followed.Â
Finally safe, [M/n] allows himself to sit down against the mast and simply breath, Lloyd holding onto the fabric at his shoulder. Those green eyes never left him, the slightest twitches making him ask if he was alright. If it had been anyone else - except maybe Zane or Nya - he would have grown irritated but as it is, he is simply amused by his worry.Â
Finally easing the strange feeling in his chest, [M/n] easily maneuvered Lloyd into his lap, chuckling at his help. âI did not get the chance to ask: are you alright?â
Lloyd shrugged, looking away. âI guess.â
âYes or no.â
An aggravated huff, âI donât know!â [M/n] raised a brow, surprised though Lloyd seemed just as surprised by the outburst. âIââ He looked away.Â
âIs it about your father?âÂ
His shoulders tensed.Â
âYou have to tell me if you want me to help, Lloyd.â
âI donât want your help,â Lloyd mumbled. [M/n] felt a slight twinge in his chest, but pushed past it.Â
âAlright. But if you do . . .â
âI know.â
âGood. Are you injured? Any scrapes from your falls?â
Lloyd squawked, âIt was only one fall!âÂ
âIt sounded more like two or three,â [M/n] teased.Â
âWha-no! How did you hear that?!âÂ
âSuper hearing,â [M/n] deadpanned, smirking as Lloyd spluttered.Â
Relaxing, the two were eventually called to join the party the others had set up to celebrate their win - four Fangblades in one fell swoop. Music played as a disco ball shone on the ceiling.Â
It was when [M/n] saw Lord Garmadon slipping away from the celebration, a tired expression on his face that he guided Lloyd away. Downstairs, in the ninja's shared room where Lord Garmadon had been staying, they found the man packing his bag.Â
âYou're leaving?" Lloyd asked, devastated.
Lord Garmadon nearly winced, âNow that you are safe, and the ninja have the Fangblades, there is nothing else I am needed for.â He kneeled before his son, resting a clawed hand on his shoulder.Â
âBut I need you.âÂ
âSon . . .â Lord Garmadon pulled his son close, releasing a trembling breath before he pulled away.Â
âI know you have to leave, but know this: when we meet again, I'm gonna do everything in my power to defeat you,â Lloyd mumbled, wiping at his face.
âI wouldn't have it any other way,â Garmadon agreed, pride in his gaze. âOh, and, son? You're a good boy. Soon, you'll be a great man. Although we're now on opposite sides, I'm still very proud of you.â Lord Garmadon stood, meeting the [e/c] gaze of the purple ninja.Â
âI hope to meet you on the battlefield one day,â [M/n] said, dipping his head. Lord Garmadon, while evil, had earned his respect.Â
âI, as well. Take care of my son.â The way his eyes narrowed told [M/n], without any words, of the torture that would be inflicted upon him should he fail.Â
âWait, I can get you one of Jay's gliders. You probably don't need it, but itâ" Lloyd darted past his dad to look through Jay's trunk. When he turned, he found only [M/n] standing in the doorway, watching him sadly. "âmight help. So long, Dad.âÂ
Lloyd slumped, ducking his head to try and hide the tears and trembling lips.Â
âÎÎčαÎșΏΎα,â [M/n] murmured gently, eyes soft. He opened his arms in a silent offer. Lloyd quickly took it, hurrying into his arms to bury his face into his chest. âIâm sorry.â
Lloyd whimpered but didnât respond.Â
[M/n] held him close, gently running his fingers through white-blond hair, offering quiet reassurance. For a long while they just stood in the middle of the room, until Lloyd made the choice to pull away, wiping at his face.Â
Giving him a moment to try and compose himself, âDo you want to go upstairs and rejoin the party or stay down here?âÂ
Lloyd didnât answer straight away. He tugged at the too long sleeves of the Green GI, staring down at the ground. Taking the opportunity, [M/n] found his normal clothing and a set of pajamas to choose from, then set them out on the bed to be chosen from.Â
Reaching over Lloyd grabbed his hoodie, mumbling, âParty, please.âÂ
âAlright. Get dressed, ÎÎčαÎșΏΎα, Iâll turn around.â Doing as he said, Lloyd got dressed with minimal struggle, the buckles on the back giving him a little trouble until [M/n] demonstrated how to do it properly.Â
âDone,â Lloyd said, adjusting the sleeves.Â
Turning back around, [M/n] looked at Lloyd - truly looked - and saw that he had lost weight, though not enough to panic over thankfully.Â
Eyes softening, he offered, âDo you want me to make us something for dinner before we join the party?âÂ
âWhat would you make?â Lloyd asked, peering up at him.Â
âWell, I was thinking about my special Gyros. I havenât had the opportunity to make them for you yet.â
âSpecial gyros? What's in âem?âÂ
âChicken, tzatziki, cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes, but what makes it special is the small blocks of Saganaki and lemon potatoes, all wrapped in fluffy pita bread,â [M/n] explained, watching the way Lloydâs face lit up.Â
âLetâs do that!â Lloyd happily turned and marched out of the room, leading the way to the dining room.Â
[M/n] chuckled, âI will have to make enough for the others. Will you help me?âÂ
âYeah!âÂ
Once in the kitchen, [M/n] had Lloyd pulling out the ingredients for him as he organized it all so it would all be done at the same time. Once finished, Lloyd happily clung to his waist.
âWhatâs saganacki?âÂ
âSaganaki,â [M/n] corrected absentmindedly. âThink of it in a similar vein to mozzarella sticks, but with Kefalotyri, which . . . is similar to parmesan. It is a fried appetizer, but I like to cut them small and stuff them inside gyros which in turn makes it a healthy-ish, energizing snack.â
âI always thought healthy stuff was gross.â
âIt can be,â [M/n] agreed, leaving the chicken to marinade in a greek yogurt, red wine vinegar, lemon, and herb mixture, tucking it in the fridge. He began cutting the potatoes, making sure they were small cubes. âIt takes work to eat healthy, but it is made easier when you learn recipes that add flavor to things that arenât flavorful.âÂ
âLike all those roasted veggies you made that first day,â Lloyd realized.Â
âCorrect. I work hard to make dishes that are healthy but delicious, making them easier to eat so we keep ourselves fit.â
Lloyd fell silent, clinging to [M/n], who easily maneuvered around him to work. Grilling, frying, roasting, mixing, he easily matched up the times before adding the ingredients to the toasted pita bread.Â
The normal tzatziki was spread in a thin layer across the bread, the cucumber salad placed on the bottom with the potatoes added in next, drizzled in the lemon and garlic juice that it had been cooked in, with the saganaki and grilled chicken added last. All of the gyros were folded up and wrapped in aluminum before being placed on a plate.Â
âAll done,â [M/n] announced,easily lifting the tray. âTime to join the party.âÂ
âLetâs go!â With a grin, Lloyd happily raced down the halls, slowing when he came to the Bridge.Â
âGo on.âÂ
Nya saw them come in, lighting up when she saw [M/n] carrying in a platter of Gyros, enough for everyone to have two. âThat smells delicious!â She handed over two glasses of purple punch, noting the lingering redness in Lloydâs eyes. âHe left, didn't he?â
Lloyd nodded, looking away.Â
âIâm sorry, Lloyd. That Snogfruit Punch might make you feel a little better. Cole made it, and it's actually not bad for once.âÂ
[M/n] reluctantly took the drink, eyeing it.Â
âZane and Sensei made a couple appetizers,â Nya added, gesturing to the table. There was Taâamia, Fried Kibbeh, Artichoke and Herb Hummus, Karaage, Fried Shrimp Onigiri, and Kimchi and Mayo Onigiri weighing down the table.Â
âIt all smells good,â [M/n] said, smiling slightly as he set down the platter.Â
âIt always does.â Nya turned around, holding up her cup. âTo Lloyd's dad!"
"Hear, hear!"
"To Dad!"Â
âNow eat up! [M/n] made gyros!â
âI made my special gyros,â [M/n] corrected, earning excited noises. Everyone grabbed a gyro and began eating, Cole practically moaning. Lloyd took a big bite, smearing sauce on his cheeks as [M/n] chuckled, handing over napkins for the boy.Â
As heâd predicted, everything tasted delicious.Â
The party gained traction, everyone gaining energy after eating. Nya managed to coax Lloyd into a dance, the boy laughing loudly as she led him along. [M/n] watched it all with a smile, munching on Onigiri, Taâamia, and Hummus.Â
His smile fell when the hairs on the back of his neck rose. Eyes narrowed, [M/n] slipped out from the Bridge, circling the deck and listening closely. But no one was out there, so he returned to the party.Â
When it finally died down, in the early early hours of morning, they all climbed into bed. Lloyd was easily led into [M/n]âs bunk, happily cuddling the older. It didnât take long for them all to pass out, completely exhausted from that day's events.Â
KhĂšlai formed of his own volition, perching on the baseboard of the bunk bed in the form of a sleek barn owl. [M/n] felt a little better with the shapeshifter watching over them and easily fell back asleep.
Only hours after [M/n] was cleared the ninja were back in the city chasing after a Venomari spotted stealing from a stand. They hoped to find out more information about what Pythor was up to and were now trying to capture them.
Turning, the Venomari found themself trapped in an alley with Cole at the entrance, blocking them from behind. "Going somewhere?"
"Uh oh!" Looking for another way out proved fruitless as Jay, Kai, and Zane dropped down from the roofs around them. [M/n] stayed up on the roof just out of sight of the Venomari, KhĂȘlai by his side as they watched.
"Thought you could joyride through town and not be noticed, eh? Where's the last Fangblade?" Jay demanded, swinging his Nunchucks threateningly.Â
"I don't know what you're talking about."
"Yes, you do," [M/n] stated, dropping down to the ground without a sound. The shifter followed, muscles rippling beneath the glossy speckled fur of a jaguar.Â
"Yeah. The fourth Fangblade. When Pythor finds them all, he plans to unleash the Great Devourer," Kai said, jogging the Venomari's memory.
"Oh, that Fangblade. Haha, you're too late. Pythor's already there now. He's probably already digging it up. If I were you, I'd start preparing for the worst, because when the Great Devourer is awakened, there will be nothing it won't consume!" The Venomari cackled as [M/n] tilted his head, eyes gleaming.
"'Nothing it won't consume?' So it will consume you as well."Â
Zane nodded, and the cackling abruptly cut off as the Venomari looked between the two of them in fear.Â
"Ah! Please, you have to stop him. That snake is crazy. I don't wanna unleash the Great Devourer. I'm a snake, not food!" Their hysteria grated on [M/n]'s ears, making him scowl.
"Is it really too late to stop Pythor from getting the last Fangblade?" Kai asked.
"You're days behind him. There's gotta be something else you can do!" The Venomari wailed as they all shared a look.Â
Leaving behind the suitably terrified Venomari, they returned to the Bounty to bring back their findings.Â
As they explained what the Venomari had told them, Nya pulled up a map of Ninjago on the big screen. Marked in red dots were the locations of the four Fangblades. "The Venomari's right. By the time we cast sail clear across the other side of Ninjago, Pythor will have already beat us to the last Fangblade."
[M/n] sighed, sinking to the ground to sit crisscross. Lloyd took the opportunity to climb into his lap, still seeking reassurance a week later.Â
"Oh, come on, guys. This is the last one. We gotta get it. We gotta think of something," Jay said.
Garmadon shifted slightly behind them, an ever-present shadow.
Cole hummed to himself, looking over the map as he tried to think of something with the others.Â
"Hey," Lloyd said, breaking the silence.
"Huh?"
"All we have to do is just get one Fangblade to stop him. What if we take back the other three? Pythor wouldn't risk having them all on him. He's probably hidden them somewhere while he goes for the fourth," Lloyd pointed out as the four ninja stared at him in shock. [M/n] hummed, delighted by Lloyd's foresight as Garmadon allowed a feral grin to appear in pride.Â
"E' cosĂŹ semplice," Cole whispered to himself. (It's so simple.)
"Huh, why didn't I think of that?" Kai asked.
"It can't be that easy," Jay added, tugging at the sleeve of his GI.
"Just because it seems a simple solution does not mean it will be easy," [M/n] warned.
"[M/n] is correct. My algorithms suggest taking the other three would be far more dangerous. Pythor would undoubtedly have them protected by his top generals," Zane stated.Â
"Ha, finally. I don't have to hold back." Kai was smug as ever.
"Even if you could steal the other three, you don't even know where they are," Garmadon added, quick to point out the flaw in their plan.Â
"He's right. For the past few weeks, there have been almost no Serpentine sightings. How are they moving around? It's like they're ghosts," Wu agreed.Â
"Or snakes. Bridge, give me a sonar sweep of Ninjago," Nya ordered. Nothing showed up.
"See, nothing. It's just like Sensei said."
"Let her finish."
"But what if they aren't traveling above ground? They're snakes, right? Snakes burrow. Bridge, now give me a sonar sweep of Ninjago but twenty feet below surface."
The map showed, about twenty feet beneath the surface, all four tombs interconnected forming a singular massive underground fortress.Â
[M/n]'s grip on Lloyd tightened subconsciously, as the room went completely silent.
"All the tombs have been interconnected," Kai whispered horrified.Â
"To make one massive underground-" Cole lost the word, too upset and shocked to remember it.
"And all this time, right under our noses," Jay mumbled, tugging on his sleeves harshly.
Zane tried to lighten the mood, "Or rather, feet."
"There, that's the most protected area. The Fangblades must be held there," Kai stated, pointing to where a massive cavern lay. Each tomb connected to it in one way or the other and it held the most Serpentine within.Â
"Then what are we waiting for? Nya, set the course," Wu ordered, eyes golden as the dragon stirred from its slumber. It was echoed in the glowing red of Garmadon's gaze as his own beast snarled in fury.
"Already on it. We'll be there by sunup."
Even with how eager they were to fight, the flight there would last well into the next day before they made it to the closest entrance. For now, they all needed a good night's sleep for the battle to come.Â
Lord Garmadon slept in the bunk below [M/n]'s with Lloyd in his arms. The boy had been bouncing between beds, much to their amusement, unable to decide who he would rather sleep with.Â
The next morning came with training for all of the ninja on the deck.Â
"There is no room for error. The Serpentine have shown that they have great powers, and to combat them, you must turn their greatest strengths into their greatest weaknesses. Kai, how will you defeat the Hypnobrai?" Wu asked.Â
Kai tugged a blindfold over his eyes. "Their hypnotizing powers are useless if their opponent can fight without relying on his eyes." He began running through his Katas to get used to the movement while being blind.Â
"Good, Jay, the Fangpyre is fast and his bite sharp."
"But if he can't bite through your skin-" Jay tapped the armored sleeve on his right arm. "-he can't turn you into one of them."
"Yes. Cole, the Constrictai are strong," Wu stated, pressing a button to send a net at Cole who became ensnared. "And they will not let go."
"But instead of fighting back, one must try to loosen up." Instead of fighting back against the netting, Cole relaxed his muscles and allowed the net to slide right off him. Grinning, he did a little dance that made everyone snicker. "And a little soft shoe doesn't hurt."
"Zane, the venom of the Venomari can make you see things. Cloud your perception."Â
"Then I will use my new Falcon Vision." The Falcon swooped overhead as Zane's eyes went completely blue.Â
"Very good. [M/n], the Anacondrai have impenetrable scales, and the ability to disappear. How will you catch him?"Â
"Every impenetrable armor has a weak spot. One I can and will exploit. And Pythor is a coward, he will turn tail and flee rather than face me."Â
"Good. I have trained you well. You are all ready," Wu stated, satisfied and proud.
"What about you, Sensei? Will you fight? We need all the help we can get," Kai admitted.
"My concern is that my old bones cannot keep up, but I will be there in spirit," Wu stated, shaking head.Â
[M/n] did not look up from the black sheath he was attaching to his hip when he heard Lloyd practically bouncing towards him.Â
"We're arriving at the Mountain of a Million Steps. You all might want to see this," Nya reported over the intercom.
All peered over the railing to see the massive piles of dirt the Constrictai had created in digging the tunnels.Â
"Look at all those piles of dirt," Jay mumbled.
"Wonder what those snakes are up to," Kai said, scowling.
[M/n] finally glanced down to Lloyd, finding him dressed in the oversized, baggy Green GI looking up at him with fire in his eyes. "I'm coming too."
"This is not your fight," Wu stated sharply, kneeling before his nephew to roll the sleeves and legs back so he wouldn't trip. [M/n] adjusted the buckles across the back that had been left undone since Lloyd couldn't quite figure them out. "The Green Ninja is too important for a future destiny. You shall stay with me."
Nya landed the Samurai Mech on the deck, "Well, he's gonna have to look after himself, because we made room for you." She gestured to the welded-on chair attached to the mech's shoulder. Wu could not help but light up, eyes flashing.
"Well, you said you were concerned that you couldn't keep up, so Jay and Nya rejiggered the design so you could come along. Well, what do you think?" Kai asked, having guessed his Sensei's answer the night before.Â
"I think... shotgun! Haha!" The four ninja and Nya all laughed at Wu as he easily flipped up to the chair. Lloyd scowled to himself, leaning closer to [M/n] as the other ran a hand through his white-blond hair.Â
"Wu is right about this not being your fight. Your fight will come in time, do not rush it, λÎčαÎșΏΎα, alright," [M/n] murmured softly, brushing his hair away from his face.Â
"I will stay back with Lloyd. I don't enjoy saying this but... good luck," Lord Garmadon said, coming up to stand beside Lloyd.Â
Everyone nodded and disembarked. Cole attached a rope to a nearby rock, tugging on it to test its strength. One by one they slid down, with Nya lowering her mech in last, arriving in the same cavern [M/n], Zane, and Cole had been attacked in two months ago.Â
"I thought you said this place would be heavily guarded, Zane," Jay accused.Â
"Forgive me. Even Nindroids make mistakes."
Cole spotted something on the walls, different from the hieroglyphs that had been there before. "Hey, check this out."Â
Jay inspected the strange, inaccurate pictures of them, groaning at his own, "Pfft. That doesn't even look like me."
"Ugh, they're gonna pay for that," Kai grumbled, scowling pointedly at his own as Nya snickered.
[M/n] was surprised to find his own portrait was fairly accurate, especially compared to everyone else's.Â
"That's not fair! How come [M/n]'s is accurate?!" Jay demanded.
"They are afraid of him. Why would they try to incur his wrath?" Zane retorted as [M/n] shook his head in amusement.Â
"I mean, at least give me a decent mustache," Cole added, reaching to scrub the mustache off only for it to be pushed back into the rock. They all fell silent as the entire panel their pictures were on swung open revealing a hidden tunnel. "Uh, I meant to do that."Â
In a line, the team traveled down the tunnel all the way down to the inner sanctum, a massive cavern several times larger than the Bounty, where several hundred Serpentine roamed around. Closer to the center were the four Generals, sans Pythor, huddled around something as they spoke.Â
"There's too many to deal with at once. I say we travel by shadow," Kai pointed out.Â
"Right behind you," Nya agreed.
"And I'll be right behind you," Wu stated, giggling to himself.Â
While Kai had come up with the plan, it was [M/n] who took the lead as the best at stealth.Â
The foot of Nya's mech slipped on the thin ledge they were on, sending rocks clattering to the ground below. Every nearby Serpentine turned towards the sound, prompting others to look until the entire cavern was staring up at them, surprised.Â
"All right, Operation Stealth was a total bust. We're gonna need reinforcements. Anyone there?" Nya asked when no one responded to her comm call. Below the Serpentine were shouting and arming themselves. "Lloyd, can you hear me? Ugh, I'm not getting anything."
[M/n] snarled beneath his hood, unsheathing his Golden Tessens.Â
"Forget them. We need to fight back. Ninja, show them what you've learned," Wu ordered.Â
They all separated, jumping into the throng of Serpentine, though [M/n] chose to create more space between them so he could kill without guilt or remorse.Â
Dropping onto the ground, a group of Serpentine â with members from all of the tribes â surrounded him. One, who saw the scars near his eye, wrongfully assumed it was a blindspot and tried to use it to creep up on him, but was quickly slaughtered with a swift cut to their throat.Â
Far back, using the others as a shield, a Venomari took aim and fired a dart that pierced the skin of his neck, startling him. Snarling, he quickly tugged it out just in case it was laced with anything.Â
Stumbling was the first sign that he had been right, but it did not take long for numbness to creep up his limbs. Before long, he lost control of his arms and hands and his Tessens fell to the ground before he collapsed, legs unable to hold him up. His head smacked painfully against the ground, but it was far down on the list of his worries.Â
KhĂȘlai began to form over him but a manacle was clasped over his wrist and the smoky form melted back into his skin. Within his mind, he could hear KhĂȘlai's fury through deep roars and snarls.Â
[M/n] snarled as he was grabbed, but had no control to even lift his head up to see where he was being taken. It wasn't until he was dropped onto the cold steel of a cage â and did not move even after the Serpentine left â that anyone realized something was wrong.Â
Zane thought he was going to have a heart attack â even though he did not have a heart â when his friend was dropped onto the floor. He rushed over, dropping to his knees in fear, "[M/n]! What happened? Are you alright?" The Nindroid was frantic, blue eyes glowing as he searched for wounds.
"Poison," [M/n] rasped, slurring his words due to his heavy tongue. "Not . . . Deadly. Paralysis."
The others all let out sighs of relief, having been hovering over him and Zane. Relieved, Zane gently propped him up against the bars, so he was not laid out so awkwardly.Â
Nya set to gathering as many pebbles as she could find, littered across the floor of their cage, positioned high above the ground. Once she'd gathered them all, she took to throwing them at her mech, tied up in chains and hanging just a few feet away with the Golden Weapons.Â
"Lloyd? Lord Garmadon? Is anyone there?" Nya called for the umpteenth time. [M/n] began to worry as no response came for several minutes.Â
"It's me, Nya. I'm here. But my dad left. How are you guys holding on?" Lloyd asked. Nya threw a stone to answer but missed, and Lloyd was quick to become worried. "Nya? Hello?"
"We're fine, but we're a little held up at the moment. Our weapons have been taken, [M/n]'s been poisoned, and we're locked in a cage. It was a trap and we all fell for it," Nya explained.Â
"And Pythor's returned with the fourth Fangblade," Cole added, glaring down at the returning Serpentine.Â
Lloyd's voice came through, frantic and tinged with fear, "Poisoned?! Is [M/n] alright?!"Â
Zane answered for [M/n], throwing a rock with precision, "He is alright for the moment. It seems to be paralysis, which includes the loss of his ability to speak clearly. But he is breathing and stable."
"Lloyd, where is my brother? Why did he not answer the comms?" Wu asked.
"I-I told him to leave. He was trying to steal secrets," Lloyd admitted.Â
Kai began gloating and [M/n] wished for the poison to abate faster so he could knock some sense into him. "Oh, big surprise there. I told you about that guy, but you guys wouldn't listen."
"My dad's going back to where he came from. But don't worry, I'll save you," Lloyd stated, unable to hear Kai's rant.
"No," [M/n] hissed, forcing his tongue to work. Nya threw another rock, and Wu answered this time.
"You're not ready, Lloyd. Your destiny is too great to risk."
"I hate to break it to you, [M/n], but if we don't get out of here before Pythor unleashes the Great Devourer, I think this will be the end of all our destinies," Cole pointed out, seeing [M/n]'s ire.Â
"Ugh, I'll get you out of there in a jiff," Lloyd said, and the comms beeped. Completely off, it meant they had no way to get in contact with the Bounty.
[M/n] felt his heart begin to pound, the sound drumming in his ears.Â
Below, Pythor began a grand speech, "Together, we have taken back the four Fangblades. When we return them to the City of Ouroboros, together we will unleash the Great Devourer!" The crowd cheered. "To the City of Ouroboros!"
There was a pause as Pythor and his Generals spoke in low tones before he raised his voice again, "But tonight, we celebrate with a Slither Pit!"
The cheers grew louder still as a fight was quickly set up.Â
Jay and Cole, nearly bored to tears, created a checkers board out of rocks, hair oil, and random pieces from their GIs. Kai, also bored but unwilling to sit, paced across the cell.Â
"Patience. Lloyd will figure something out," Wu stated, meditating.
"We're putting all of our trust into the son of the greatest villain Ninjago has ever seen. Uh, is anyone else having doubts about this plan? Just because we don't have our weapons doesn't mean we can't use our powers. We just need to focus," Kai snapped. A low growl came from [M/n] as he glared at Kai, best he could.
"The chamber was built out of Vengestone. Our Elemental Powers are rendered useless. Patience," Wu repeated.Â
Kai sighed, continuing his pacing for a good five minutes before he grew too impatient and snatched the hair oil off the makeshift checkerboard. "Hey, that hair oil was about to be kinged," Jay complained, throwing his hands up as his piece was taken.Â
"Yeah? Well, I'm just about to get us out of here." Kai began smearing the oil all over himself much to the disgust of everyone else.Â
"Whoa, greaseball. How about warning us before you do that?" Cole groaned, covering his eyes.Â
"Unh, you can make jokes all you want, but I don't think we need our special powers to get out of here. Just a little ingenuity," Kai said, smug as ever. [M/n] hissed in disgust as he closed his eyes.Â
He pushed himself through the bars with a low grunt of pain, balancing on the outer lip of the cage.Â
Jay's eyebrows rose dramatically, "He actually made it."
"Look at that," Zane mumbled from beside [M/n].
"Alright, slickster. Now what?"Â
[M/n] was suddenly overtaken by a short spasm that left him gasping, but grinning slightly in satisfaction. Zane watched him in worry, but seeing the small grin had him relaxing and turning back to Kai's attempt to escape.
The tips of his fingers and toes were beginning to gain feeling.Â
"Now, we quietly do a little ball and chain," Kai stated. Rocking back and forth, [M/n] tipped into Zane with a grunt before he was gently lowered onto the ground.Â
"It's working, keep going," Nya urged.
"Come on, everyone. Let's see if we can throw our weight around," Cole suggested. Everyone began running back and forth, swinging the cage further and further.
"Come on, more speed," Jay cried.
"Next one and I've got it. Push." Kai jumped just as [M/n] shouted out a warning.
"Kai, no!"
Kai landed and began to tip back, only to be grabbed by Pythor and hauled back up. "Uh, uh, uh. Trying to escape, are we?"
"Heh. I bet this looks kind of bad, doesn't it, huh?" Kai asked, chuckling nervously.Â
He was dragged back into the cell where everyone, except [M/n], was chained to the bars and left far grumpier and more agitated than before.Â
"Great, we're in such a better place than we were before," Cole stated sarcastically.
"And now we can't even play checkers," Zane lamented, shaking his head. He'd been looking forward to his turn.
"I was gonna be kinged, Kai," Jay complained.
Nya, who was chained beside [M/n]'s prone body, rested a hand on his knee. "Don't worry, [M/n]. I have faith in Lloyd. Besides, Lord Garmadon loves him, I doubt he'll let his son fight alone."
[M/n] sighed, murmuring his agreement.
Every once in a while, a spasm would overtake his body furthering the feeling along his arms and legs. The feeling had just returned to his thighs and biceps when he heard noises coming from the tunnel they'd come from.Â
"Whoosh. Ninja roll. Flying Dragâ" Lloyd tripped â likely over a rock based on the clattering sound it made â but quickly recovered. "Whoa! Ninja recover! Whoosh. Ninja roll."
"Lloyd," [M/n] hissed, struggling to push himself up with a still numb torso and neck.Â
"Hey, look up there. It's Lloyd," Kai said, realizing what [M/n] meant.
"Come on, Lloyd. You're the Green Ninja. You can do this," Lloyd whispered to himself.
[M/n] closed his eyes, focusing on the poison running through his veins, and pushed his Nether harder, urging it to cleanse him quicker. A particularly violent spasm overtook his entire body before it calmed and he was able to hear what was happening.
"âdon't meet again, Pythor. Unhand the ninja, or suffer humiliation against the Green Ninja!" Lloyd declared.
"Oh, yeah? You and what army?" Pythor asked, laughing mockingly.Â
"Uh, how about my army of fists?" Lloyd threw a sloppy punch that had him stumbling a little.Â
"Or this army?" Lord Garmadon stood at the top of the stairs with an army of Skulkin at his back.
"Dad!"
"Lloyd, you helped me realize I do have a choice. And if there is anyone who is going to threaten Ninjago, it better well be me," Lord Garmadon stated.
"The Skeleton army? But why would they fight beside you? You betrayed them and Samukai long ago," Pythor pointed out.
"Because everybody hate snakes!" Kruncha shouted, shaking a bony fist.
"Attack!"
"Attack!"
As the two armies clashed, the lever that lowered the cage was hit and they began to drop towards the acid below.Â
"Hey, we're moving," Jay said, relieved.
"Yeah, the wrong way," Cole snapped. Panting, [M/n] stumbled to his feet, reaching for one of the hidden blades with his GI, and began picking the lock at the door.Â
"Lloyd!" Nya shouted as the boy darted between the fighters. The cage had just reached a few feet above the acid when Lloyd made it to the lever and halted the cage in place.Â
"[M/n]!" Lloyd cried, throwing his arms around his waist. Hunching over him, [M/n] used the blade to pick his cuff before wrapping his arms around Lloyd and tucking him close.Â
All of their Golden Weapons clattered to the ground, as did Nya's Mech. Cole passed [M/n] his Tessens before diving into the fray.Â
KhĂȘlai curled around them as [M/n] placed the seax knife in Lloyd's hand. "Stay here and keep your eyes closed, ÎÎčαÎșΏΎα."
As soon as his eyes closed, [M/n] lunged for the nearest Serpentine, dodging and twisting.Â
"We have the Fangblades!" Kai shouted, calling for a retreat. [M/n] retreated back towards Lloyd, grabbing his wrist when the boy tried to stab him, thinking him an enemy. Scooping him up, [M/n] ran back towards the tunnel with the others close behind.Â
"Don't worry about us. We'll keep fighting the good fight," Nuckal shouted as they passed.
"I never thought I'd be saying this, but go, ninja, go!"
They escaped back through the tunnel and were quick to climb aboard the Bounty and pull away. Nya got them up into the clouds just in case any other Serpentine tried to go after them.Â
With the Fangblades in their possession, the ninja decided to throw a party after all the hardships and everything they'd been through. It was deserved after all the injuries and sleepless nights and fights they'd all suffered.Â
[M/n] noticed Lord Garmadon slipping out the door of the Bridge, face morose. Gently, he guided Lloyd after his father and down to the ninja's shared room where Lord Garmadon had taken residence when he was here. Lloyd was devastated to see his father packing his bags.
"You're leaving?" Lloyd asked, lips trembling.
"Now that you are safe, and the ninja have the Fangblades, there is nothing else I am needed for," Lord Garmadon stated, crouching down before his son.Â
"I need you," Lloyd whispered, wrapping his arms around his father's neck. Lord Garmadon held his son close, taking a trembling breath before he pulled away and stood. "I know you have to leave, but know this: when we meet again, I'm gonna do everything in my power to defeat you."
"I wouldn't have it any other way," Garmadon said, pride tinging his every word. "Oh, and, son? You're a good boy. Soon, you'll be a great man. Although we're now on opposite sides, I'm still very proud of you."
"I hope to meet you on the battlefield, one day," [M/n] murmured, dipping his head.Â
"I as well."
"Wait, I can get you one of Jay's gliders. You probably don't need it, but itâ" Lloyd darted past his dad to look through Jay's trunk. When he turned, he found only [M/n] standing in the doorway, watching him sadly. "âmight help. So long, Dad."
When [M/n] opened his arms, offering a warm hug, he sank into it, sniffling as he was tucked into the older's chest. He didn't object when he was picked up and gently carried over to the bed.Â
Music filtered in from above, as the others' party carried on, but the room remained silent for the time being. Until [M/n] broke it, murmuring to keep the peace, "Do you want to stay here? Or go back to the Bridge?"Â
Lloyd didn't answer and he didn't push. After a minute, Lloyd made a decision.Â
"Bridge."
It still took Lloyd a few minutes to get up, but they eventually made their way upstairs. Nya noticed them pretty quickly and brought over glasses filled with purple punch.Â
"He left, didn't he?" Nya asked, seeing the slight redness around his eyes. [M/n] rested a hand on Lloyd's shoulder, nodding. "Then have some Snogfruit Punch. Cole made it, and it's actually not bad."
Once the cups were in hand, Nya turned and held hers aloft, grabbing everyone's attention. "To Lloyd's dad!"
"Hear, hear!"
"To Dad!"Â
Lloyd was eventually coaxed into a dance by Nya as [M/n] watched, a soft smile on his lips. His smile fell slightly when the hairs along the back of his neck rose, feeling as if he were being watched. Glancing out the window, he saw nothing, but the feeling did not leave.Â
When they all retired to bed, [M/n] summoned KhĂȘlai who sprawled before the door to their room as he held Lloyd close. Tucked beneath his pillow, rested two knives ready to be used at any moment.Â
Garmadon held true to his word, spending the night awake, though one couldnât tell at first glance. Relaxed in the chair, head resting against the wall behind him, armor set off to the side on the floor and eyes closed. To someone looking at him, they would believe he was asleep, an easy target - but Lord Garmadon was still an Elemental Master, and Elemental Masters were never defenseless.Â
Morning came, early morning sun shining through the small window, casting a slight reddish-orange glow.Â
Zane came down to change [M/n]âs bandages, not aware that Garmadon had stayed - having believed the elder would have taken Lloyd back to his room. When he entered, he didnât notice the other. So when he glanced at the cot, he jumped at the sight of two glowing red lights peering back at him.Â
âLord Garmadon?â Zane asked, surprised. âI did not expect to see you.â
Garmadon hummed, âHe woke not long after you all left.â
âHe did? How long was he awake for?âÂ
âBarely a few minutes. He did not move much, barely spoke. And his speech was slurred.â
âSlurred speech is common on morphine,â Zane murmured, carefully adjusting the blanket to reach [M/n]âs burned left arm. âI have to change the bandages if you wish to take Lloyd away.â
Lord Garmadon frowned. âIf the ninja wakes.â
Zane nodded, carefully reaching for the gauze to undo the first layer of bandages, a slight twitch making him pause. Luckily, [M/n] stayed asleep. Continuing, Zane tossed the first layer away, working on the second layer, only to freeze.Â
âThis isnât-How?â Zane had no idea how to react. [M/n]âs arm was healing, not healed, but healing. It should have still been inflamed, red, maybe even infected if Zane hadnât cleaned it properly. Instead the edges were healing, as if the wound was already in the second phase, the Proliferative Phrase. âThis isnât possible. It should still be in the Inflammatory Phase.â
Garmadon stood, leaning over slightly to see, âIt is quite possible. Has he never shown his affinity for healing?âÂ
âHealing? No-â Zane cut himself off, realizing that he had. [M/n] had been up and on his feet within three days of fighting in the Ouroubourus Arena. âYes, he did. After fighting against the Serpentine he was up and walking in three days. Even with a concussion and a broken leg.âÂ
âThe power of Aether,â Lord Garmadon murmured, slowly nodding.Â
âAether? I apologize, but his Element is Nether.â
âHis Element is a two-sided coin, he cannot have one without the other.â
Zane frowned, but didnât push the topic, deciding it wasnât important to know more. He carefully undid the rest of the bandages, finding each wound in a similar state. While he was worried that [M/n] would be dealing with nerve damage or even blindness, since one burn was right under the eye, he wasnât so sure if that would be a problem now.
Eventually he asked, âWhy now? This is a significant jump in . . . healing abilities.â
âElements are naturally fickle. Aether and Nether more so. I have seen Elements react before their host even realizes what is happening. Perhaps it knew he would survive one without more intervention versus the previous injury.âÂ
Before Zane could ask another question - about Aether, specifically - Lloyd began waking up, grumpily trying to hide in the blanket to go back to sleep. Lord Garmadon allowed a small smile curl at his lips, softening slightly.
âNya should be making breakfast, haupia filled malasadaâs and sweet coconut milk congee with fruit toppings. I can bring it back to you, unless you wish to join us.â
âWe will join you,â Garmadon decided reluctantly. â[M/n] will need his rest. And Lloyd needs to eat.â
Zane nodded, leaving the room - leaving [M/n]âs burns to air out.Â
Garmadon gave Lloyd another half hour before he made to wake his son, waiting until the Bounty came to life to make sure breakfast was ready. Gently shaking his shoulder, Lloyd tried to pull away until he realized it was his dad.Â
âYou must get up, my son. Breakfast should be done.â
âCanât we eat down here? With [M/n]?â
âYour protector needs his rest, and you need to eat.â
âBut-â
âYou could get crumbs in his burn and they could end up infected. Do you want that?â
âNo!â Lloyd violently shook his head.Â
âThen we will eat upstairs. When he wakes up we can come back and visit. Until then, we need to leave him be.â
Lloyd slumped, sliding off the cot sadly. âFine.â He sent [M/n] one last look before he followed his father out of the room.Â
Silence settled in the Medbay, sunlight filtering in through the singular window. [M/n] woke when the sunlight became too bright for him to continue to sleep, slowly blinking himself awake. Squinting, he slowly looked around the room, taking a minute to realize he was alone. Exhaustion still tugged at his eyes, but he pushed himself up using his good arm to get a better look at his bad arm finding it unwrapped.Â
Arm bare to the world, he was surprised to see the wound was clean, the edges already healing when he faintly remembered how the burns had originally looked. The blackened skin had been cut away - which he remembered had been done by Zane just the night before - and the skin had begun turning that waxy color of healed burns. It should have been impossible, and yet he was looking at evidence to the contrary.Â
The realization clicked. It had been the most painful experience of his life and yet all that would linger would be scars.Â
For several long minutes he just blankly stared down at his arm, mind sluggishly working through everything he had been through. It took even longer for him to realize that he had no idea where Lloyd was, mind moving far too slowly. Confused, [M/n] looked around again.Â
âLloyd,â [M/n] rasped, only to quickly devolve into heavy coughing. He leaned back against the pillows, unable to pull himself up as he wished to. Once he caught his breath, he looked to the side table, glad to see a cup of water. Reaching over, he struggled to grab onto it with his good hand, nearly dropping the glass before he could get a drink.Â
Greedily he tipped his head back to chug down the water, uncaring of the way some splashed around his face, soaking the collar of his clothing. Finished, he pulled the cup away to gasp, breath heavier than normal. Throat soothed, he went to call out again but something much different escaped.Â
A strange yap escaped - almost like a dog's bark but softer. It startled him, the way it bounced around the walls. Silence fell again.Â
Unknown to him, the sound had managed to reach the dining room, quiet as it was. Garmadon, Wu, and Zane all managed to hear it, though the latter had no understanding of what he was hearing. The Dining Room itself was eerily silent, everyone far too somber to try and hold any kinds of conversation, no matter how much they wished too.Â
âAre you finished, nephew?â Wu asked, seeing how Lloydâs plate was almost empty, the boy pushing around what was left.Â
âYes, Uncle.â He looked up to his father. âCan I go back to [M/n] now?â
Garmadon sighed, âYes you may. It would likely be best.â Lloyd happily climbed down from the bench, racing back down the halls to get to the Medbay.Â
âZane, perhaps you should go with him,â Wu said, making Zane frown. The Nindroid rose at a far slower pace, quietly following in Lloydâs wake.Â
In the Medbay, [M/n] smiled when he heard Lloyd racing towards him, converse making a distinct sound as he ran through the halls. When he came crashing through the door, Lloyd lit up in delight when he realized [M/n] was awake.Â
â[M/n]! Youâre awake!â Lloyd cheered, clamboring up into the cot. [M/n] smiled, settling into the cot now that he knew Lloyd was alright. âI thought youâd still be slee-â Lloyd fell completely quiet as he caught sight of [M/n]âs arm.Â
âLloyd,â [M/n] murmured, gently resting his good hand on his head. His lip began to tremble, Lloyd struggling to look away from the burn. âÎÎčαÎșΏΎα, Iâm alright. It will heal.â
âBut-â
âButts are for sitting,â [M/n] deadpanned, earning a faint smile even as Lloyd sniffled. âLook at it closely. It is already beginning to heal, I promise.â
âReally?âÂ
âReally.â [M/n] carefully lifted his left arm to allow Lloyd to get a better look at the burn across his forearm.
â[M/n]?â Zane asked, shocked. âI did not expect you to wake for several more hours.â
[M/n] hummed, rearranging Lloyd to be better tucked into his side, âI just . . . needed to check on Lloyd. And everyone else. I think . . . I am still exhausted. I will need a lot of sleep before I can pick up training again.â A deep sigh escaped him as it finally registered just how much it was going to take for his body to return to normal.Â
âWould you like me to do anything to make it easier?â Zane questioned, frowning slightly.Â
He was quiet, thinking. âEasy foods. But protein is most important. Fruits and veggies as well. It might be best if I only drink smoothies and soups for the next few days, so I donât get sick. When I woke up from my coma I struggled with solid food, so this could be a similar scenario.â
âI will compile a grocery list.â
âDonât let Cole make me anything. I know he means well, but . . .â
âI understand,â Zane chuckled, joined by Lloydâs faint snickers. âAnything else?â
âI might need more morphine, so Iâll call my friend. You also might need to talk to Wu about getting me some kind of protection for my arm. Once Iâm back on my feet Iâd like the extra security of knowing my arm isnât a weak spot to exploit.â
Lloyd popped back up, stress lining his face, âWhat?!?! You canât fight!âÂ
[M/n] blinked, surprised. âLloyd-â
âNo! This-you-!!â Tears gathered in his eyes again, [M/n] lost and unsure.Â
âLloyd, let me speak. I have to do this. Being a ninja is important to me. Protecting you and innocent people who are being caught in the crossfire is important. Do you really think we can trust Kai and Jay and Cole to handle things on their own with only Zane to wrangle them?â
âNo,â Lloyd grumbled, scowling. [M/n] softly smoothed down his hair in comfort.
âI understand that you are afraid,â [M/n] soothed. âBut we cannot falter, not when weâve just lost the Fangblade. They need my help and I will give it, just as I will protect you.â
âBut why? What if you get injured again?âÂ
âThat is a risk I have always been aware of. While being burnt by lava specifically might have been a surprise, the burns themselves were always a possibility as long as Kai wields the Sword of Fire. Lloyd, you are the Green Ninja, just as I am the Silver, which means me being hurt is going to happen. I have no interest in being injured and I will try to not be, but it is important that you are not injured, especially not when the last battle comes.âÂ
Lloyd sniffled, curling closer to his side, âWhat if I donât want you to protect me?â
âThen I am sorry to say that I will be ignoring your wishes. Not only is protecting you my job and my destiny, it is very important to me. I care for you deeply, Lloyd. I do not wish to see you harmed, not only because you are the Green Ninja, but because you are a child who deserves more.â Tears fell down Lloydâs face, sniffles escaping as he clung to [M/n]âs shirt. âI will always do my best to remain uninjured, but I cannot promise more.â
âWhat if you donât come back?â Lloyd asked, trying not to cry.Â
âI will always claw my way back to you, Lloyd. Trust in that.âÂ
Zane had remained completely silent, deciding to not ask the question sitting in his chest. He noticed the way [M/n]âs eyes drooped slightly after his speech, gently cradling Lloyd close as he could without hurting himself, obviously ready to fall back asleep.Â
âGo back to sleep,â Zane stated gently, helping adjust the blanket. âI will make soup and some smoothies for when you wake up again.â
âCan I stay?â Lloyd asked, already ready for another nap.Â
âOf course. I will inform your father.â Zane left, closing the curtains so the room was darkened to make it easier for the two to sleep. âSleep well, brother.â
[M/n] chuckled, broken off by a yawn, âI plan to.â
With that, Zane closed the door, allowing the two to fall asleep. [M/n] slept for much longer than Lloyd did, the young boy ushered out of the room after a long 3 hour nap to run off the energy, easily sleeping another 19 hours before waking in a similar fashion to earlier.
Slowly waking, he pushed himself up again, quietly scanning the room. Jay was partially sprawled in a chair - a ripped up armchair that must have been dragged in at some point - snoring quietly. Huffing softly, [M/n] laughed.Â
âJay,â he called, head tilting slightly. âJay!â
The blue ninja woke up in alarm, nearly falling off the chair, âWha-huh? [M/n]? Youâre awake!â
âI am,â [M/n] agreed, voice dry and raspy.Â
âOh-oh, are you thirsty? Hungry? Zane made Thai Salmon Coconut Soup for you. A giant pot too. Do you want me to get you a bowl?â Jayâs eyes drifted to his still unwrapped arm. âOr uh, a cup and a straw?â
âA bowl please. And water.â
âYeah, yeah, I can do that. Iâll be back.â Jay rushed out, nearly running into the door in his hurry. [M/n] smiled, amused, settling down into the pillows. He patiently waited for Jay to return, stomach rumbling slightly in hunger.Â
When Jay returned, with a steaming bowl balanced on a plate with a slice of bread, [M/n] sat up taking in a deep breath to catch all the scents floating off the soup. Lime, coconut milk, garlic, onion, pepper, salmon, with a kick of chili. It was delicious, making his mouth water.Â
âThank you, Jay.â
âNo problem. I had to get myself a bowl since yours smelled so good,â Jay admitted, holding up another plate and bowl. [M/n] chuckled, taking the plate from Jay to balance it on his leg, tearing the bread into pieces with his teeth and good hand. Dipping it into the soup, [M/n] was satisfied by the taste, eyes closing in delight.Â
The warm soup settled in his stomach, soothing the ache and hunger.Â
â΄ÏÎÏÎżÏÎżÏ,â [M/n] murmured, smiling slightly. âDid Zane mention anything about my burns?â (Delicious)
âHuh, uhh,â Jay took another spoonful as he thought. âI think Iâm supposed to bandage them? Heâs had some gauze soaking in that solution for a while, so I think Iâm supposed to use that, but Iâm not really sure. Maybe I should just go wake him up.â
âNo, I know how to wrap burns,â [M/n] said, waving him off. âI can walk you through it once we finish eating.â
âOh, uh, yeah, yeah that works. Oh, and Lloydâs been asking to learn some first aid but no oneâs really agreed since they werenât sure if you would be okay with that? Or if Lord Garmadon would be. I mean, why would he? Dark Lord and all, he probably doesnât know much about First Aid.â
âFirst Aid is one of the basics Sensei taught us, isnât it?â
âWell yeah, but Garmadonââ
âIs the elder brother, not the younger. Is it not possible he was the one who taught Sensei a few things? Or that they both learned similar things from the same teachers?â
Jay was stumped, âHuh. I guess we never thought about it like that.â
âÎÏÎżÏÏ ÎœÎ± ÏÏ.â (I can tell.)
âHey! I donât know what you said but I do know it was mean!âÂ
âNot mean,â [M/n] mused, taking a long sip of soup. âJust factual.â
âYour facts sound like insults.â
âThen Iâm doing something right.âÂ
Jay sulked, finishing his soup in silence much to [M/n]âs amusement. Once they both finished eating, Jay took the bowls to set them aside, anxiously coming back to stand beside the cot, âOk, Iâm ready. I think. I hope.âÂ
âYouâre going to need to wet a wrap to clean it out first, and some soap - which should be on the counter, but make sure it is unscented. And make the water is mild, not hot.â
âWhy does the soap have to be unscented?â
âChemicals, I believe. Iâd rather err on the side of caution either way.â
âI guess that makes sense. Whatâs the point of adding chemicals ? I mean, wouldnât it be easier to add natural ingredients? Like, arenât chemicals more expensive to add to soaps and stuff?âÂ
âA question for Zane. Make sure to squeeze out the excess water.â
âHuh-oh, yeah.â Jay continued questioning soap, going on a short tirade about the time heâd made batches of soap for his mom, using natural oils rather than chemicals. âNow, what?â
âWash it out.â
âWash it out?â
âYes, wash it out.â Jay looked sick, slowly reaching out to drag the corner of the rag across his arm as [M/n] sighed. âJay. You have to actually wash it out, not drag the rag across it.â
âWhat if it hurts you?â
âIt already does. Cleaning it out will only help me heal. Just . . . just clean it out. Iâll do my best to hold still.âÂ
Jay cleared his throat and actually began to clean out the burn, doing his best to be gentle as [M/n] gritted his teeth, doing his best to hold steady. When heâd finished cleaning out the burns on his arm, collar, and face - making sure to get out all the soap - he asked what to do next.
âThe gauze soaking in the solution. Squeeze those out. Then wrap my burns, first with that, then with dry gauze.â
âAnd thatâs it? Really? Thatâs a lot easier than I thought it would be.â
âThis is caring for a burn thatâs already been cleaned out. Zane did the hard part that first day.â
Jay shuddered, âThat was-I hated . . .â He went quiet as he squeezed out the gauze. âI didnât think Iâd ever see anything like that. I mean, Sensei never told us about this happening.â
âI doubt he expected us to have to deal with this. The Prophecies have been around for centuries, Jay, and there have been multiple previous iterations of the four Guardians. He had no way of knowing that it would be us who would complete the Prophecy.â
âThat-I guess that makes sense,â Jay mumbled, beginning to wrap his arm.Â
[M/n] hummed, leaning his head back to close his eyes. Since he closed his eyes he did not see the way Jay reacted - the blue ninja correctly deducing that it was a sign of trust - frantically trying not to react aloud even as he got so genuinely excited that his hands were trembling with the urge to stim.Â
When Jay finished, [M/n] shifted downwards without ever opening his eyes. âIâm . . . going back to sleep.âÂ
âThatâs fine,â Jay chirped. âColeâs on next watch, Nyaâs after that, then Sensei, so somebodyâll be here.âÂ
[M/n] hummed, easily falling back asleep. This time, the ninja managed to sleep for nearly two days straight, much to the slight worry of Zane - even though he understood it was necessary - and the panic of Lloyd, who rarely wanted to part from his Protectors side unless bribed away by his Father.Â
Instead of waking groggy and confused, [M/n] woke like he normally did - quickly. Alert, he found Nya sitting in the chair Jay had been in.
âNya,â he greeted, startling the girl whoâd been working on some kind of project. It seemed to be a piece of her armor, by the looks of it.
â[M/n], youâre awake!â Nya nearly dropped the armor piece, standing to approach the cot where he was sitting up. âI-We were starting to get worried. Itâs been nearly 2 days.â
âI am fine,â [M/n] reassured gently. âBut I am hungry again.â
Nya snorted, âZane made you Chicken Satay Curry and Dhalpuri Roti, with Lloydâs help.â
âOh? And what did Lloyd help with?â
âThe sides. Garlic Rice, Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad, and Red Lentil Dhals. They ended up really good too, so I think weâre gonna have to add him to the dinner rotation,â Nya teased. âMaybe as Zaneâs Sous Chef.â
âAbsolutely not. Heâd rather be my Sous Chef,â [M/n] retorted, grinning. âBut it all sounds delicious. Guess I will just have to have big servings of everything.â
âOh, and Zane made some kind of drink for you too. Uhh, something milk latte? I think it had turmeric in it, and I know he said it would help with inflammation.â
âA Golden Milk Latte?â [M/n] questioned, perking up a little. The drink had always been a special treat for him, sparking the embers of a memory filled with laughter and warmth. âHe remembered.â
âRemembered?â
âI spoke to him once about how the drink made me remember my family. Itâs never clear, the memory, but I know I was happy. I know my family was happy.â
âThatâs . . . really sweet,â Nya admitted, a little sad.Â
âIs something wrong?â
âNo! No, I just . . . It made me wonder about my parents. I mean I have a picture or two of them, but I donât remember them. Is that bad?â
âNot bad. I donât really remember my family,â [M/n] reminded her gently. âI have a few of their voices and laughs, but none of their faces. It's not a bad thing to forget, Nya. Especially since you were a child.â
âYou're right. But letâs focus on getting you food,â Nya decided. âDo you wanna eat down here or in the dining room?âÂ
âThe Dining Room. I need to stretch my legs.â
âAlright, then let's get you up.â
Nya offered her hand to help pull [M/n] up, frowning when he groaned through his teeth. He hadnât walked in four days so his legs ached slightly, as did his arm and collar, the burns stretching uncomfortably. She let go of his arm, but didnât take more than a step backwards, worried that he would fall.Â
âI am fine,â [M/n] said, taking a strong, steady step forward. âJust a little tired.â
âHaha,â Nya deadpanned, rolling her eyes. âCome on, slowpoke, Iâm hungry.âÂ
[M/n] picked up the pace, taking long strides to keep up with Nyaâs quick pace, amused. Turning a corner they nearly ran right into Cole, who couldnât help but light up.
â[M/n], youâre awake!â Cole swept forward, fully ready to drag him into a hug.Â
âWait-Cole, donât!âÂ
Cole came to a stop, wincing when he realized what heâd almost done. âScusa.âÂ
âVa bene. So che non stavi cercando di farmi del male,â [M/n] said, waving off his apology. âHow has your day been?â (It is fine. I know you were not trying to hurt me.)
âGood. Better now that I know youâre awake. You going up to eat?âÂ
âThat is what I am doing. Would you like to join? Catch me up on what has been happening while Iâve been asleep.âÂ
âAssolutamente! You missed a much!â (Absolutely)
âLot,â Nya coughed.
âOh?â
âYeah-â
âFirst, let's get you food before we catch you up.â Nya glared at Cole, who held up his hands in surrender.Â
âWhat exactly did I miss?â
âWeâll explain at the table.âÂ
[M/n] slowly continued on his way to the dining room, Cole and Nya escorting him. When he made it to the dining room, he slid open the shogi door.Â
Everyone inside glanced at the door, only to be shocked.Â
â[M/n]!!â Lloyd yelled, scrambling out of his chair to embrace him.Â
âLloyd-â Garmadon tried to stop him but [M/n] leaned down to embrace him in turn.Â
âYouâre okay.â
âIâm okay.â
Zane was quick to stand as well, but he did not embrace his brother, only resting his hands on his arms when he stood, âI am glad to see you up and moving.â
âI heard someone helped with dinner and could not wait to try it.â
Lloyd grinned, puffing his chest out.Â
âCome sit,â Wu said, âEat. You need your energy. We will fill you in on what you missed.â
âHow much, exactly, have I missed?â
âJust a couple things,â Jay reassured. âI mean, theyâre big things. But only a few things.â
âWe will eat first,â Wu decided. âThen we will catch you up. We do not want such a meal to go to waste.â
âGive me one moment,â Zane excused himself to go back down to the Bountyâs kitchen. [M/n] took the time to sit down on Lloydâs left, putting the boy between him and Lord Garmadon. When Zane returned, he returned with a cup that he immediately passed to [M/n], and a kettle.
Smiling, he took in the smells - cinnamon, turmeric and ginger - before taking a sip, the earthy and slightly sweet taste saturating his tongue. Lloyd was curious.Â
âWhatâs that?â
âA Golden Milk Latte,â Lord Garmadon answered, recognizing the smell. âA popular drink for . . . the older generation.âÂ
Wu sent his brother a sharp look, but no one noticed. [M/n] was more focused on the drink.Â
âI have a few faint memories of my family and most of those memories include drinking a Golden Milk Latte and Masala Chai,â [M/n] explained, giving Zane a warm smile. âI must have shared that with you, what? A year ago?â
â1 year and 3 months,â Zane corrected, returning the smile. âWe were sharing our regret over lacking memories of our family and I happened to make us cups of Golden Milk Latteâs which triggered your memory. I was surprised when you shared the memory with me, but I knew it was important so I did my best to remember.â
âThank you, Zane. That means a lot to me.â
âCan we eat now?â Kai asked, interrupting. âI get this is a sweet moment anâ all, but Iâm hungry and everything looks too good to just keep sittinâ there.â
âKai!â Nya smacked him upside the head.Â
âHey! Iâm just tellinâ the truth!â
âKai has a point. Everything looks delizioso,â Cole added, licking his lips.
âVery well,â Wu said. âLet us eat.â
Everyone allowed [M/n] to fill his plate first - which he did, a healthy serving of Chicken Satay Curry that he poured over a healthy serving of Garlic Rice, a few pieces of Dhalpuri Roti, and good but small portions of Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad and Red Lentil Dhals. Digging in, he was delighted at the flavors.Â
Around him the atmosphere was happier than it had been for days. Wu watched his students with sadness, worried for their future with the prophecy looming overhead. Garmadon was watching his son and protector, glad that he would have somebody at his side for it all.Â
Finishing his bite, [M/n] asked, âWhat have I missed?âÂ
The happy atmosphere did not disappear but it faded slightly.Â
Wu set down his chopsticks, âWe do not know where the fangblade has disappeared to, and we worry it managed to make it into Pythor's hands despite our efforts.â
âAnd the Serpentine themselves have disappeared,â Nya admitted, frowning slightly. âWeâve gotten one or two reports of Serpentine in libraries but by the time anyoneâs gotten out there, theyâre gone.â
âNo sightings?â [M/n] repeated, shocked. âNone at all, outside of those two?â
âNone. We are waiting for the opportunity to capture one of them when we are next alerted. Pythorâs plan is . . . still unclear to us,â Zane explained.Â
[M/n] was quiet for a long minute, tapping long nails against the table. âYou all know my memory is fuzzy, but I have faint memories, very faint memories, of learning about the Great Devourer except that wasnât how I knew her. In the Constrictai Tomb I saw hieroglyphics of a snake curled around a temple. I believe each Tribe had some kind of goddess they worshipped and I believe this Great Devourer is what Pythor believes in. To him, releasing her could mean wiping the world of anyone other than the Serpentine. Chase us away. Entomb us, this time.â
Everyone shifted uncomfortably.Â
âWhat gives you that idea?â Cole asked, genuinely curious and worried in equal parts.Â
âHe seems like the type. Pythor despises us, more than the other tribes because he is the last of his kind,â [M/n] reminded them.Â
âThatâs fair,â Jay mumbled. âSo now we have to worry about a massive snake being released? But where would it be released from? What could hold something capable of destruction like that?â
âWho knows,â Kai grumbled.Â
âPerhaps somewhere isolated,â Zane offered. âI doubt it was the Serpentine who locked her away, so whoever did would have put her far away from people, right?âÂ
âWouldnât somebody have discovered it by now?â Nya asked, frowning.Â
âMaybe not,â Kai said, frowning. âI mean, arenât there a lot of areas in Ninjago that havenât been explored yet?â
âPlenty,â Lord Garmadon agreed. âPeople have barely explored this continent, in fact, most villages and cities are only found in the western half of Ninjago. The further east you go the fewer towns, and the farther apart they become.â
âHow come we havenât explored any further?â Jay asked, genuinely confused.Â
âThe areas that have been explored have provided everything the people need. Plenty of water, food, and lumber available,â Wu explained. âEven just the western half has a variety of different climates, which allows us to grow plants such rice, wheat, and corn which tend to be the basics for a good majority of food. Then you have the range of fruits we have available.â
âThatâs really cool, actually,â Jay said, nodding along. âWhat were we talking about?â
âThe Great Devourer. Do you know anymore about it, [M/n]?âÂ
âNo, that is all I remember. Sensei, Lord Garmadon?"
âNo. Legends, perhaps, but nothing concrete that tells anything about the Devourer,â Lord Garmadon stated, Wu shaking his head.Â
âSo weâre screwed,â Kai complained. âWe have no ideas about where the last Fangblade is, no idea where the Serpentine went, and not a single clue or idea about the Great Devourer.â
âLet us finish eating,â Wu decided. âWe will have the days ahead to plan, let us enjoy at least one peaceful dinner.â
âAlright, Sensei,â Everyone chorused, going back to eating.Â
It took a few minutes for any new conversation to start, but soon the atmosphere was relaxed again, everyone talking about new tricks they planned to learn, books theyâd read, movies theyâd watched in the past few days where theyâd had a surprising amount of time to relax after hectic weeks theyâd had.Â
Lloyd leaned further into [M/n]âs side, the older wrapping an arm around him. He squeezed slightly, offering the boy a smile. But even sitting there was exhausting. And while it wasnât as bad as it had been, he still wasnât fully healed.Â
His wound was now in the Proliferation Stage - where the wound was finally beginning to close, pulling the skin tight due to the missing patches, leaving the area tighter than it should be. [M/n] knew Zane would likely have a regime of exercises and stretches when he next woke up.Â
Lloyd glanced up, just in time to see [M/n] yawn - in a way that very much reminded Lloyd of this Fennec Fox that he used to spot digging dens near Darklyâs. It almost made him laugh, but he was more worried about the bags beneath his eyes. He leaned closer to his protector, resting his head on [M/n]âs shoulder.Â
Glancing down, [M/n] gave the boy a warm, tired smile.Â
âAre you okay?â Lloyd asked, genuinely worried.
âI am doing well. Quite well, in fact.â He fought back another yawn. âHowever, I may have to retire again soon. But only for a short while.â
Lloyd was relieved, âOkay. Can I come lay with you?â
âOf course, ÎÎčαÎșΏΎα. As long as your father says it is alright.â
Garmadon hummed, âIt is fine. I will busy myself through the night.â
Lloyd happily hugged his father, Garmadon wrapping him in both of his left arms, watching his son with a rare gentleness. When he saw [M/n] watching, his red eyes narrowed but [M/n] offered no reaction. Garmadon was Lloydâs father, he wasnât going to fault the man for softening when his son loved him so.Â
Around them the conversation jumped around, falling back on Nyaâs time as the Samurai.Â
âHow did you even manage to build that thing so quickly?â Kai asked. âWe werenât even on the Bounty for three whole weeks.â
âWell, thatâs because I started building it in the Monastery. Thatâs where it all started. But that was a year ago, right around when Lord Garmadon disappeared. The four of you started lazing around, so I figured I could help by building my mech,â Nya explained. âAnd then [M/n] started teaching me Krav Maga, which helped me figure out what pieces of my armor would get in my way. I only finished it on the Bounty, though.â
âIt didnât burn? O-or melt?â Jay questioned, eyes wide.Â
âNo, I had it hidden out in the back garden. You guys never went out there, and Sensei said the cellar wasnât in use when I asked.â
They all looked to Sensei, âWe had a cellar?!â
Wu blinked, âUhh, yes, we did. It hadnât been used for a very long time, so I allowed Nya to use it as a workshop.â
âWhat was it used for?â Zane asked, Jay and Kai rolling their eyes.Â
âIt was originally used as more of a storm shelter, but when I had the outer walls redone, it became redundant. After that I had thought to use it as dry storage, even though it was only [M/n] and I, and I did for a short period. Then you five moved in and there became no need for dry storage with how much we all ate.âÂ
âHey! Are you calling us fat?â Cole joked, grinning.Â
âYes,â Nya deadpanned in unison with [M/n]. Silence for a solid five seconds. Then the whole table bursted into laughter.Â
[M/n] rolled his eyes, Lloyd practically bouncing in his seat.Â
When everyone calmed down, he finally stood. He ignored the worried looks, stretching slowly with a wince. âI believe it is time for me to retire. I will see you all in the morning.â
âMorning?â Zane questioned, frowning slightly. âYou do not think you will sleep for several days again?â
âNo. I still feel tired, but not anymore than you do after a normal day. My days might be shorter for a while, but I should be back to normal soon enough.â
âThatâs good,â Nya said, relieved.Â
âI will begin drawing up a training regime to help your muscles and skin,â Zane decided.Â
âThank you, Zane.â Something occurred to [M/n]. âSensei, have you thought about any protection for my arm?âÂ
Lloyd was frowning, but he was ignored for the moment.Â
âI have, yes. But it will not arrive for a few days yet. Be patient.â
âThank you. Are you finished, Lloyd?â
âYeah, are we going back to the med room?â
âYes. Come along.â Lloyd happily swung his legs over the bench set to follow [M/n] back down to the med room. âDo you want to grab some comics to read while I sleep?â
âYeah, hold on.â Lloyd rushed down the hall, [M/n] fondly shaking his head. He got as comfortable as he could on the bed, grabbing two more spare pillows for Lloyd. When Lloyd came back, [M/n] allowed himself to relax, eventually falling asleep.Â
As he had said, [M/n] only slept for the night, waking later in the morning then he normally chose to. Lloyd was sprawled across his lower legs, having apparently made his way there at some point. Amused, [M/n] slipped from the bed and began to stretch, wincing at the pull of his skin.Â
The pull was odd, and only a little painful, but it was easier to move than days before. He figured within the next few days, Zane would be able to test and clear him. He glanced down to Lloyd, who was snoring slightly.Â
It took Lloyd and [M/n] an hour to calm themselves, with Lloyd having cried himself to exhaustion while [M/n] simply had no more tears to shed. Garmadon glanced around, searching for a blanket to cover them with and found one folded up on the counter. Quickly fetching it, he draped it across the two as Lloyd struggled to even keep his eyes open.Â
Looking at [M/n], the man could see that even the little activity had completely exhausted him so he reached for that shred of humanity he clung to, "Sleep ninja. I will guard you from the darkness."
"Thank you," [M/n] slurred, already slipping back into unconsciousness. Lloyd tucked himself more securely against [M/n]'s side, nearly disappearing beneath the blanket, before falling asleep.
Garmadon held true to his word and spent the night awake, though one could not tell at first glance. Reclined in the chair, his head was resting back against the wall, eyes closed with his armor set on the floor beside him. To a stranger, they would think him an easy target for he had no weapon but an Elemental Master is never weaponless.Â
Morning came with Zane quietly entering to take the old bandages off. He planned on letting the burns air out a bit, to help the process along.Â
Stopping just before the bed, he was only a little surprised to see [M/n] partially turned towards Lloyd, who was really only a white tuft of hair for he was still hidden beneath the covers.Â
"He woke not long after you all left."
Zane jumped, having not seen the Dark Lord hidden within the shadows. The room was still dark â as Zane had no need for lights anymore â so all he could truly see were two ruby eyes staring back at him. The rest of Garmadons body blended in too well with the shadows and he had a hard time distinguishing him.Â
"How long was he awake for?" Zane asked, too drained to be afraid.Â
"An hour, maybe a few minutes more. He and Lloyd cried themselves to exhaustion but . . . he barely moved and he was absolutely exhausted. Passed out almost immediatley."
Zane was surprised. [M/n] had always taken time to fall asleep, mind always working, and always woke at the slightest sounds. But now that Garmadon mentioned it, the ninja had not even twitched or responded at all to Zane's presence.Â
"Sensei said he would heal himself but it would be a slow and exhausting and would come at a price. Though he would not elaborate."
"My brother would know all about his Aether, wouldn't he," Garmadon murmured to himself. Zane, who overheard, glanced at him in curiosity.
"His Aether? I apologize but [M/n]'s element is Nether, not Aether."
"His element is a two sided coin. He cannot have one without the other."Â
Garmadon offered no other information, and Zane let it be.
He did help remove Lloyd from [M/n]'s side so Zane could remove the bandages. Both froze in shock at the sight of his skin.Â
Instead of gaping holes, blackened bone, and skin there were waxy burn scars.
"How- How is this possible?" Zane asked, undoing the rest of the bandages to find much the same. The burn scars across his face were barely noticable, as only drops had hit his face and there was less damage done.Â
Zane worried for the possibility of nerve damage and muscle weakness but seeing as the ninja was sleeping so deeply, he decided that it could be tested at a later date.Â
Garmadon shifted his grip on Lloyd as the boy wiggled a bit, seeming to realize that he was no longer at [M/n]'s side.Â
"Why now? Why did his . . . Aether heal him now but not when he returned half dead from Ourobourus?" Zane questioned, having quickly figured this other element was why he had healed so quick.
"Elements are fickle things. It could have known he would survive then but not now, or it could be because of something else entirely. I do not have the answers, and I doubt even my brother does."
Zane nodded slowly, running through everything he could find on Aether but very little actually popped up. It was considered Creation because it was the very fabric of the universe as some scientists claimed. He decided to leave it be for now. [M/n] would reveal what he thought necessary whenever he decided to. He could wait.Â
Glancing to Garmadon as he shifted Lloyd once again as the boy shifted, slowly waking up.
"Breakfast will be ready soon. Do you wish for me to bring it back here or will you join us?"Â
"We will join you. The ninja needs his rest."
Nodding, Zane simply left in silence, mind full of questions.Â
Cole stopped by only a few minuted later, eyeing the resting ninja and murmuring something in Italian before retreating.Â
It was only when the scent of french toast could be snelled from all the way down in the Medbay that Garmadon woke Lloyd. At first the boy refused, wanting to stay but Garmadon refused to let him. Eventually he agreed and followed his dad up to the fining room for breakfast.Â
Silence fell upon the Medbay as sunlight filtered through the singular window. [M/n] woke when the light became to much for him to ignore, and slowly pulled himself up even as his exhaustion made him want to lay still and do nothing. His attention fell to his left arm, bare to the world, where the waxy burn scars had â further healed â begun to almost blend back into his skin. Running his fingers over them, he was surprised by the lack of pain that he expected.Â
It had hurt so much and yet all that lingered were scars.
Another look around the room had him wondering where everyone was. At least until he realized he did not know where Lloyd was. The last memory he had was crying and holding Lloyd until they fell asleep. Garmadon had been there as well, watching over them.Â
Something sat in the back of his throat, so he opened his mouth to speak. Instead a strange bark came out. It was softer than a dogs, higher pitched, but it bounced off the walls of the Bounty until it could be faintly heard throughout the entire ship.Â
In the dining room, there was very little chatter â everyone far too somber to truly try to hold a conservation. Garmadon, Wu, and Zane all turned their heads toward the faint sound but only the latter realized who it was from.Â
"Are you finished, nephew?"
"Yes, Uncle." Lloyd looked up to his dad. "Can I go back to [M/n] now?"Â
"That would be best, my son. He is calling for you," Garmadon stated as Lloyd's eyes went wide. In his scramble to get up, he nearly tripped but quickly righted himself to take off down the halls.
"And you, Zane."Â
Zane stood as well, far more gracefully, and rushed after Lloyd who had easily outran him with his headstart. As they got closer they heard the sound Wu and Garmadon had heard, calling them closer.Â
Flinging open the door, Lloyd wasted no time in scrambling onto the bed and into [M/n]'s open arms. Tucked back into his arms, he sniffled a little but kept his tears to himself. Looking up he found [e/c] eyes watching him with this peace in his gaze.Â
When Zane entered, he turned his gaze to his brother and smiled, a small tired smile but one nonetheless. He settled down at [M/n]'s side, hesitantly pressing their shoulders together but when his brother did not flinch, Zane couldn't help but press a little more firmly.Â
"I am surprised to see you awake so quickly," Zane admitted.
"I needed to check on you two. And everyone else. But I am still exhausted. I will need to sleep for a while to gain my strength before I return to the battlefield," [M/n] explained, distressing Lloyd who sat up to look at him.Â
"But- How can you- You almost died!"
"Protecting you. As is my path," [M/n] stated softly, not aiming to hurt. It was the truth no matter how much Lloyd, and Zane, hated it. "I am the Silver Ninja, protector and Guardian of the Green Ninja. Of you."
"So destiny dictates your life is worth less than Lloyd's?" Zane questioned sharply, blue gaze cutting as his ice.Â
"Yes and no. Lloyd is my priority but I will not throw my life away unless it is the only option. In order to protect Lloyd I do have to be alive," [M/n] stated dryly, glaring right back at Zane as Lloyd's distress mounted. Turning his attention back to Lloyd, he gently tilted his chin up until they made eye contact. He needed to make sure Lloyd understood. "I will not die until our Destiny's are fulfilled. And hopefully not even then. I will not promise to never be injured but I will come back. That I can promise."
Lloyd hesitated, searching his face for deception but found nothing. "Okay. I trust you."
"And I trust you. When you are older you will have my back as I have yours. Until then I believe Zane will have my back."
"I wouldn't dare leave you unguarded, my friend. Who knows what kind of trouble you would get into."
Chuckling, [M/n] noted the worry still present across Lloyd's entire face so he made a decision. "Zane. In the chest by my bed should be a seaxe knife in a black sheath tucked into the corner. Can you bring it here, please?"Â
Zane raised an eyebrow, but stood to retrieve it. He moved quickly so as to return sooner, still wishing to reassure himself of [M/n]'s survival. Lloyd watched him go in curiosity before looking back to his protector.Â
"Why do you need a knife?"
"The seaxe is not for me, per se, but rather for you. I will attach it to my hip so that you have easy access to it in case you need to defend yourself or me." Lloyd's eyes sparked in interest and he leaned forward eagerly. "As your training progresses I will give you access to some of my other blades in case of emergencies."
"Really?" Lloyd asked, amazed.
"Yes. You are to be the Green Ninja, the strongest of us all, and I, your Defender, but it will not hurt for you to have a backup in case something happens. I know this will not ease your worry completely but I cannot sit out on these battles."
Lloyd nodded, looking a little more sure and confident.
Zane returned with the sheath and blade, passing it over to [M/n] as he reclined against the wall. Lloyd payed close attention as he explained where exactly the sheath would be placed and explained that they would likely have to practice so nothing happened in the heat of battle.Â
It would be too easy for [M/n] to take the movement as an enemy and lash out with the intent to kill.Â
He promised that once he was better, they could begin training but they had no idea when that would be so Zane offered another solution.Â
"Lord Garmadon could teach him, couldn't he?"Â
"I don't know if he'd agree to teach his 12 year old son how to use the blade."
"I would rather teach him myself," Garmadon stated, standing in the doorway. "I started younger than my son and have had several centuries of practice. It would . . . ease my mind if I was the one that taught him this."
[M/n] caught the undertone of what he was saying. This was likely the only thing he would ever be able to teach his son if they were enemies.Â
"Dad!"
"He's all yours." [M/n] smiled, feeling the exhaustion hit like a warhammer.
"Come Lloyd. We can begin the basics today."
"Yes!" Lloyd jumped off the cot, darting towards the doorway but paused to look back. When [M/n] gave him an encouraging nod, the boy took off completely forgetting the actual knife. "Thanks [M/n]!"
Sighing affectionately, Garmadon retrieved it from Zane before following at a far more sedate pace.Â
The door had barely closed before [M/n] was slumping in on himself, closing his eyes for a moment. After a second he manuevered himself down the bed so he could sleep, mentally and physically exhausted.Â
Zane hummed, removing himself from the bed, "Sleep, my friend. We will be here when you wake."
"I know."
[M/n] fell asleep as Zane settled into the chair Garmadon had previously occupied.Â
Once or twice a day for about a week he would wake up and eat, talk to whoever was in the room for a little bit before going back to sleep and repeating the cycle.Â
When he finally woke with enough energy that he no longer needed to 'hibernate' â as Jay had affectionately termed it â Zane set up a test to check several different things: sight, depth perception, grip strength, and movement.Â
The entirety of the 'test' Zane set up took well over two hours to complete but by the end of it he was declared healed. No problems had shown themselves, except for tighteness around the scars but that was normal and would dissappear eventually with enough care.Â
The journey back to the Bounty had taken a week. A week filled with oppressive silence, sharp comments, or, oddly enough, reminiscing. Reminiscing on their lives as young boys, when they still trained beneath their father or remembering the previous Elemental Masters and their supposed or wondered fates.Â
[M/n] found out that week that he got along with Garmadon best when the man wasnât paying attention to him or was asking about Lloyd, who they had in common. So he did his best to share what he knew of Lloydâs life, both with him and before, watching as the man's eyes darkened at points. Heâd also mentioned Misako, his wife and Lloydâs mother, but Wu was unsure of her location and [M/n] wanted absolutely nothing to do with the woman.
The Bounty itself was docked, seemingly empty with no one on deck, so they walked right onto the ship. Garmadon fell behind, blending into the shadows with ease as [M/n] eyed him for a moment, reluctantly putting his back to the man.Â
âHello? Weâre home!â Wu called, wondering if the Bounty was empty.
From within the ship, and from the dining room, several voices called back, âSensei! [M/n]!â Wu looked a little relieved, straightening as Nya came running down.
She nearly threw herself into [M/n], slowing at the last second so she wouldnât hurt him but when she pulled away, she noticed the lack of brace and cane, âYour wounds! Theyâre gone!â
Zane, Jay, and Cole came running up from below deck, hurrying to greet their Sensei and brother. [M/n] was quickly swept into another hug, Zane bending down slightly to accommodate his shorter stature, dreads brushing against his face.Â
âI am glad you are home,â Zane murmured. âIt was odd to not have you at my back, brother.â
âI feel the same way,â [M/n] returned, pulling back from his brother.
âIt feels good to be home,â Wu said, hands resting on Jay and Coleâs shoulders.Â
âWe are glad to have you back, Sensei.â
âDid you bring us anything?â Cole joked, grinning. [M/n] glanced between the three, noticing the strength of their stances, the silent power they radiated.Â
âI believe weâve missed quite a bit, Sensei,â [M/n] said, raising an eyebrow.Â
âOh yeah! You guys sure did! So, Zaneâs a Nindroid, Nya was actually the Samurai, the whole time, Coleâs a dancer-â
âZane is . . . a what?â Wu asked, confused. [M/n] was as well.
âA robot,â Zane admitted quietly. His head dropped slightly, watching them with worry.Â
âYouâll have to tell me more,â [M/n] said, calmly taking the news in stride. Zane smiled, relieved, but heâd never had to worry. They were brothers. It was as simple as that.
âI will. You've been gone a while. We'll catch you up later. But you should know, all of us except for Kai have discovered our True Potential,â Zane reported.Â
âHave you now? Where is Kai?â Wu asked, glancing around the deck. Said ninja came running up the steps, adjusting his clothes as he ran.Â
âRight here, Sensei. So glad youâre back safe.â Of course that was the moment Lord Garmadon chose to reveal himself, stepping out from the shadows to loom ominously behind Wu. âSensei, behind you!âÂ
Kai went on the offensive, lunging forward as Zane put himself in front of Sensei, quickly herding him backwards. Lord Garmadon had no issue tossing Kai back, revealing all four of his arms.Â
âFour arms?! Since when has he had four arms?!â Jay screeched, scrambling back before he could get caught in the fight. [M/n] caught him by the back of his sports jacket, tugging him and Cole back.Â
âKai, stop!â Wu yelled, pushing past Zane to stand between his student and brother. âHe is the reason I left. For so long as Pythor has Lloyd, he will be our guest.âÂ
The four ninja gaped at him, completely, silently, bewildered. But the silence did not last long.Â
âWe have to live with this guy?!â
âSensei! Four arms! He has four arms!â
âMay I remind you that ever since he turned evil, he's been trying to get our Golden Weapons?â
Wuâs eyes flashes gold, the color fading as quickly as it came, âEnough!âÂ
Nya, who had been entirely silent, looked to [M/n] for cues. She noticed the weariness in his gaze, but seeing as he wasnât arguing Nya knew that she would be tolerating his presence as long as Lloyd was missing. At the very least she figured the Dark Lord cared for his son enough to not sabotage them.Â
âYes, Sensei,â Everyone chorused.Â
âThis isnât about the weapons. Itâs about my son.â Kai held back a scoff, cowed beneath his Senseiâs words and [M/n]âs warning glare.Â
âFrom here on out, you will obey me and you will respect my brother," Wu ordered, looking each student in the eye.
âYes, Sensei.âÂ
Wu chose not to fight against [M/n]âs lack of agreement, deciding he wasnât in the mood to start an argument he wasnât positive he would win. He knew his brother's presence would be tolerated by his oldest student, and that was enough for now.Â
âNow to the bridge. We must put our attention to more pressing matters," Wu stated.Â
He was obediently followed to the Bridge, everyone a little cowed - though they werenât sure why, as he hadnât really done anything but yell, and heâd yelled at them before.Â
âWhere are we at with the four Fangblades?â
âOh, well, uhm, Pythors managed to take the first two, but there's still two left,â Jay offered optimistically, shuffling his feet.Â
âWe only need one to stop the Great Devour,â Cole added.Â
âDevourer,â Zane corrected quietly.Â
âAny luck in finding their whereabouts?âÂ
âNo, but the Falcon is programmed to alert us if he sees any suspicious activity.â
âProgrammed?â Wu mouthed, earning a shrug in response from [M/n] who was just as confused. âGood. If we find the Fangblade, we find Lloyd. Kai and Nya, prepare the deck and double-check the anchor. We need to be ready when we first get word of activity.â
Kai almost gears up to argue, but Nya is quick to kick his shin so he reluctantly agrees. âYes, Sensei.âÂ
Scowling, Kai turned to glare at Lord Garmadon, âIâve got my eye on you.â He then bumped into the doorframe - having refused to look away - making Nya groan, grabbing him by the arm to forcibly haul him towards the deck.Â
Digging his heels in, he barely managed to make the universal sign for âIâm watching youâ before Nya pulled him out of sight. Garmadon scoffed, a little amused.Â
Wu sighed, shaking his head, turning back to Zane, âDid you say the Falcon was . . . programmed, Zane?â
[M/n] took the opportunity to slip away, silently making his way to the deck though he stayed out of sight. From there he could hear Kai ranting about Lord Garmadon. It seemed Kai still held quite the grudge from Nyaâs kidnapping and the fight in the Fire Temple.Â
âBut Nya, did you see he has four arms? Wherever Sensei and [M/n] found him, he's now made it possible so that he can possess all four weapons at once. I don't trust him. Not one bit."
âYou have to remember, he's not just the Dark Lord, he's also Sensei's brother and Lloyd's dad. Though he's pure evil, Sensei holds him close to his heart. And [M/n] cares about Lloyd and really wants him back so he's not going to object to his presence if it means Lloyd will be rescued. But if he does something then I doubt theyâd let it slide. You just have to let it go.â
âThat's it."
âGood, Iâm glad youâre listening for on-â
âNo! Thatâs how I can unlock my True Potential. The key! Sensei said the heart is the key. Maybe if I stand up to Lord Garmadon, I'll find my True Potential and then everyone can see I'm the Green Ninja! Ha! Nya, you are a genius!"
âI donât follow-â
âNo time to explain. I have to go train. If I'm gonna confront Garmadon soon I gotta be at the top of my game.â Kai dropped the rag heâd been using to oil the anchor chain, flipping off the forecastle triumphantly.Â
âWha-no! Kai, you heard Sensei! Heâs our guest.â
âGarmadon might've fooled Sensei, but don't think for a second I'm not keeping my eye on him. Nya, the Lord of Darkness just became our roommate!" Nya watched helplessly as her brother ran down the stairs, heading towards one of the inner training rooms, shaking her head once he disappeared. Focusing back on her job, she didnât notice [M/n] following after her brother an ominous air around him, a shiver running down her spine that she attributed to the cold air.Â
With long strides, [M/n] easily caught up with Kai in the halls, roughly grabbing the other by the shoulder to turn him around. âWha-! [M/n]! Look, is there something you want? I really need to-â
âYou donât âreally needâ to do anything,â [M/n] hissed, eyes dark and deep, like pools of [e/c] with no bottom. His tone was similar to the one heâd used against Pythor, which had Kai freezing. âHear me when I speak. If you attack Lord Garmadon, for any reason, or threaten our chances of rescuing Lloyd by chasing him off, I will take some of your fingers in recompense.âÂ
Kai spluttered, eyes wide, âWha-Sensei would never-!â
âSensei would have to pry me off of you, and I would not make it easy. Mayhaps he would even let me, since it would not kill you. Tearing me off could only make it worse.âÂ
Kai gulped, unsure of how to respond or retaliate.Â
âDo not mistake this for hate, Kai. You are my teammate, but I care for Lloyd far more than I care for you. So make your choices wisely. Leave. Lord Garmadon. Alone.âÂ
With those parting words, [M/n] simply turned back and made his way towards the stairs, leaving Kai frozen in the hallway. Taking the long way, [M/n] settled into a state of meditation as he walked, doing his best to release his emotions with every breath.Â
When he returned to the Bridge, he found only Zane within.Â
âBrother,â he greeted, dreads swaying as he dipped his head.Â
âBrother.â [M/n] made his way to stand beside Zane, staring up at the screen. âHave there been any sightings? Anything?âÂ
âNo. Iâm sorry. We faced off against Pythor once and he did mention Lloyd as he fled, but thatâs all.âÂ
[M/n] closed his eyes, keeping a tight hold of his meditation. âThat is . . . somewhat helpful.â
âWeâll find him. I promise, [M/n].â
-------------------
Lunch was an odd, tense affair.Â
Lord Garmadon seemed to be eating some kind of sludge or grubs that deeply disturbed the four ninja. [M/n] and Wu were resolutely ignoring the scene, keeping their eyes on their own plates.Â
âChe cos'Ăš?â Cole whispered to himself, hardly even able to eat. (What is that?)
The journey back to the Bounty had taken a week. A week filled with oppressive silence, sharp comments, or, oddly enough, reminiscing. Reminiscing on their lives as young boys, when they still trained beneath their father or remembering the previous Elemental Masters and their supposed or wondered fates.Â
[M/n] found out that week that he got along with Garmadon best when the man wasnât paying attention to him or was asking about Lloyd, who they had in common. So he did his best to share what he knew of Lloydâs life, both with him and before, watching as the man's eyes darkened at points. Heâd also mentioned Misako, his wife and Lloydâs mother, but Wu was unsure of her location and [M/n] wanted absolutely nothing to do with the woman.
The Bounty itself was docked, seemingly empty with no one on deck, so they walked right onto the ship. Garmadon fell behind, blending into the shadows with ease as [M/n] eyed him for a moment, reluctantly putting his back to the man.Â
âHello? Weâre home!â Wu called, wondering if the Bounty was empty.
From within the ship, and from the dining room, several voices called back, âSensei! [M/n]!â Wu looked a little relieved, straightening as Nya came running down.
She nearly threw herself into [M/n], slowing at the last second so she wouldnât hurt him but when she pulled away, she noticed the lack of brace and cane, âYour wounds! Theyâre gone!â
Zane, Jay, and Cole came running up from below deck, hurrying to greet their Sensei and brother. [M/n] was quickly swept into another hug, Zane bending down slightly to accommodate his shorter stature, dreads brushing against his face.Â
âI am glad you are home,â Zane murmured. âIt was odd to not have you at my back, brother.â
âI feel the same way,â [M/n] returned, pulling back from his brother.
âIt feels good to be home,â Wu said, hands resting on Jay and Coleâs shoulders.Â
âWe are glad to have you back, Sensei.â
âDid you bring us anything?â Cole joked, grinning. [M/n] glanced between the three, noticing the strength of their stances, the silent power they radiated.Â
âI believe weâve missed quite a bit, Sensei,â [M/n] said, raising an eyebrow.Â
âOh yeah! You guys sure did! So, Zaneâs a Nindroid, Nya was actually the Samurai, the whole time, Coleâs a dancer-â
âZane is . . . a what?â Wu asked, confused. [M/n] was as well.
âA robot,â Zane admitted quietly. His head dropped slightly, watching them with worry.Â
âYouâll have to tell me more,â [M/n] said, calmly taking the news in stride. Zane smiled, relieved, but heâd never had to worry. They were brothers. It was as simple as that.
âI will. You've been gone a while. We'll catch you up later. But you should know, all of us except for Kai have discovered our True Potential,â Zane reported.Â
âHave you now? Where is Kai?â Wu asked, glancing around the deck. Said ninja came running up the steps, adjusting his clothes as he ran.Â
âRight here, Sensei. So glad youâre back safe.â Of course that was the moment Lord Garmadon chose to reveal himself, stepping out from the shadows to loom ominously behind Wu. âSensei, behind you!âÂ
Kai went on the offensive, lunging forward as Zane put himself in front of Sensei, quickly herding him backwards. Lord Garmadon had no issue tossing Kai back, revealing all four of his arms.Â
âFour arms?! Since when has he had four arms?!â Jay screeched, scrambling back before he could get caught in the fight. [M/n] caught him by the back of his sports jacket, tugging him and Cole back.Â
âKai, stop!â Wu yelled, pushing past Zane to stand between his student and brother. âHe is the reason I left. For so long as Pythor has Lloyd, he will be our guest.âÂ
The four ninja gaped at him, completely, silently, bewildered. But the silence did not last long.Â
âWe have to live with this guy?!â
âSensei! Four arms! He has four arms!â
âMay I remind you that ever since he turned evil, he's been trying to get our Golden Weapons?â
Wuâs eyes flashes gold, the color fading as quickly as it came, âEnough!âÂ
Nya, who had been entirely silent, looked to [M/n] for cues. She noticed the weariness in his gaze, but seeing as he wasnât arguing Nya knew that she would be tolerating his presence as long as Lloyd was missing. At the very least she figured the Dark Lord cared for his son enough to not sabotage them.Â
âYes, Sensei,â Everyone chorused.Â
âThis isnât about the weapons. Itâs about my son.â Kai held back a scoff, cowed beneath his Senseiâs words and [M/n]âs warning glare.Â
âFrom here on out, you will obey me and you will respect my brother," Wu ordered, looking each student in the eye.
âYes, Sensei.âÂ
Wu chose not to fight against [M/n]âs lack of agreement, deciding he wasnât in the mood to start an argument he wasnât positive he would win. He knew his brother's presence would be tolerated by his oldest student, and that was enough for now.Â
âNow to the bridge. We must put our attention to more pressing matters," Wu stated.Â
He was obediently followed to the Bridge, everyone a little cowed - though they werenât sure why, as he hadnât really done anything but yell, and heâd yelled at them before.Â
âWhere are we at with the four Fangblades?â
âOh, well, uhm, Pythors managed to take the first two, but there's still two left,â Jay offered optimistically, shuffling his feet.Â
âWe only need one to stop the Great Devour,â Cole added.Â
âDevourer,â Zane corrected quietly.Â
âAny luck in finding their whereabouts?âÂ
âNo, but the Falcon is programmed to alert us if he sees any suspicious activity.â
âProgrammed?â Wu mouthed, earning a shrug in response from [M/n] who was just as confused. âGood. If we find the Fangblade, we find Lloyd. Kai and Nya, prepare the deck and double-check the anchor. We need to be ready when we first get word of activity.â
Kai almost gears up to argue, but Nya is quick to kick his shin so he reluctantly agrees. âYes, Sensei.âÂ
Scowling, Kai turned to glare at Lord Garmadon, âIâve got my eye on you.â He then bumped into the doorframe - having refused to look away - making Nya groan, grabbing him by the arm to forcibly haul him towards the deck.Â
Digging his heels in, he barely managed to make the universal sign for âIâm watching youâ before Nya pulled him out of sight. Garmadon scoffed, a little amused.Â
Wu sighed, shaking his head, turning back to Zane, âDid you say the Falcon was . . . programmed, Zane?â
[M/n] took the opportunity to slip away, silently making his way to the deck though he stayed out of sight. From there he could hear Kai ranting about Lord Garmadon. It seemed Kai still held quite the grudge from Nyaâs kidnapping and the fight in the Fire Temple.Â
âBut Nya, did you see he has four arms? Wherever Sensei and [M/n] found him, he's now made it possible so that he can possess all four weapons at once. I don't trust him. Not one bit."
âYou have to remember, he's not just the Dark Lord, he's also Sensei's brother and Lloyd's dad. Though he's pure evil, Sensei holds him close to his heart. And [M/n] cares about Lloyd and really wants him back so he's not going to object to his presence if it means Lloyd will be rescued. But if he does something then I doubt theyâd let it slide. You just have to let it go.â
âThat's it."
âGood, Iâm glad youâre listening for on-â
âNo! Thatâs how I can unlock my True Potential. The key! Sensei said the heart is the key. Maybe if I stand up to Lord Garmadon, I'll find my True Potential and then everyone can see I'm the Green Ninja! Ha! Nya, you are a genius!"
âI donât follow-â
âNo time to explain. I have to go train. If I'm gonna confront Garmadon soon I gotta be at the top of my game.â Kai dropped the rag heâd been using to oil the anchor chain, flipping off the forecastle triumphantly.Â
âWha-no! Kai, you heard Sensei! Heâs our guest.â
âGarmadon might've fooled Sensei, but don't think for a second I'm not keeping my eye on him. Nya, the Lord of Darkness just became our roommate!" Nya watched helplessly as her brother ran down the stairs, heading towards one of the inner training rooms, shaking her head once he disappeared. Focusing back on her job, she didnât notice [M/n] following after her brother an ominous air around him, a shiver running down her spine that she attributed to the cold air.Â
With long strides, [M/n] easily caught up with Kai in the halls, roughly grabbing the other by the shoulder to turn him around. âWha-! [M/n]! Look, is there something you want? I really need to-â
âYou donât âreally needâ to do anything,â [M/n] hissed, eyes dark and deep, like pools of [e/c] with no bottom. His tone was similar to the one heâd used against Pythor, which had Kai freezing. âHear me when I speak. If you attack Lord Garmadon, for any reason, or threaten our chances of rescuing Lloyd by chasing him off, I will take some of your fingers in recompense.âÂ
Kai spluttered, eyes wide, âWha-Sensei would never-!â
âSensei would have to pry me off of you, and I would not make it easy. Mayhaps he would even let me, since it would not kill you. Tearing me off could only make it worse.âÂ
Kai gulped, unsure of how to respond or retaliate.Â
âDo not mistake this for hate, Kai. You are my teammate, but I care for Lloyd far more than I care for you. So make your choices wisely. Leave. Lord Garmadon. Alone.âÂ
With those parting words, [M/n] simply turned back and made his way towards the stairs, leaving Kai frozen in the hallway. Taking the long way, [M/n] settled into a state of meditation as he walked, doing his best to release his emotions with every breath.Â
When he returned to the Bridge, he found only Zane within.Â
âBrother,â he greeted, dreads swaying as he dipped his head.Â
âBrother.â [M/n] made his way to stand beside Zane, staring up at the screen. âHave there been any sightings? Anything?âÂ
âNo. Iâm sorry. We faced off against Pythor once and he did mention Lloyd as he fled, but thatâs all.âÂ
[M/n] closed his eyes, keeping a tight hold of his meditation. âThat is . . . somewhat helpful.â
âWeâll find him. I promise, [M/n].â
-------------------
Lunch was an odd, tense affair.Â
Lord Garmadon seemed to be eating some kind of sludge or grubs that deeply disturbed the four ninja. [M/n] and Wu were resolutely ignoring the scene, keeping their eyes on their own plates.Â
âChe cos'Ăš?â Cole whispered to himself, hardly even able to eat. (What is that?)
Kai answered, surprisingly good at guessing what was being said in other languages - or perhaps heâd picked some up - âItâs condensed evil. Supposed to be âlow in fatâ.âÂ
One of the âgrubsâ was knocked from Garmadonâs plate, slowly inching its way towards Kai, who violently recoiled. Disgusted, he flicked it away, nearly gagging at the squelching sound.Â
The moment Kai finished his plate, he pushed himself back, escaping the sight of Garmadon eating but that only seemed to amuse the Dark Lord. [M/n] barely refrained from rolling his eyes, pushing himself from the table once he finished his own meal, returning to the Bridge unprompted.Â
Zane joined him after his own meal, âWe can set up a watch to alert us if the Falcon sees anything. It is not healthy for you to spend all your time up here.â
âI know. I just . . . I can not help it. It all feels like this is my fault, that's all, and I should be ready for when he needs rescuing.â
âAnd what happens when you are exhausted when it comes time to save him? We will need your help to get him back, so we need you to be at your best.â
âEven exhausted I could handle myself.â [M/n] sighed, rubbing at his brow. âBut . . . I see your point.âÂ
He looked up to the Bridge map displayed across the screen. âWhat do you think he thinks of me now? KhÄlai and I slaughtered how many Serpentine in that arena before I was knocked unconscious? How will he look at me after that?â
âLord Garmadon has killed many, but Lloyd still cares deeply for his father, does he not? I do not believe Lloyd will see you any different, not after you risked your life in an effort to rescue him. You care deeply about Lloyd, [M/n], and I know he sees that. At every opportunity given, you have taken care of Lloyd, made sure he is comfortable and fed. That is far more than Darklyâs did for him.â Zane reached out, resting a hand on [M/n]âs shoulder. âWhen we found Lloyd he was barely 70lbs, which is below the health range for a boy his age. Yet his last recorded weight was 79lbs. He gained 9lbs in less than 2 weeks, because you made sure he was eating three times a day, had access to snacks and exercise. And when we get him back I have no doubt that you will continue to make sure he is taken care of.â
âIs there a point?â
âLloyd will look at you and see his protector. Because that is what you are. Though I believe youâve gone out of your way, doing far more than is perhaps expected of you.â
[M/n] huffed out a laugh, âHow long have you known?âÂ
âOnly a short while. There were clues, mainly whenever the Green Ninja was brought up. Youâre not particularly subtle when it comes to the prophecies, my brother.â
âYou really think Lloyd will understand?â
âHe did not seem bothered by the bloodshed, only worried about your collapse.â
âThank you, Zane. That . . . That means a lot to me.â
âI know. Now, will you rest and take a nap? I will take the first shift, coordinate the others in the morning.â
âIf you insist.â [M/n] reluctantly left the Bridge, heading downstairs to change. When he emerged from the bathroom, he found Lord Garmadon on his bottom bunk, playing with purple lightning as the others tried to block out the light and buzzing noise. Rolling his eyes, [M/n] simply left the room, heading to his and Lloydâs shared room.Â
At the doorway, he paused, staring down at the futon blankly before settling down slowly, exhaustion finally hitting. Settled on top of the futon, [M/n] closed his eyes, breath shuddering as he forced himself to try and sleep.Â
When he woke, early in the morning, [M/n] climbed to his feet and changed into his normal clothes before setting off towards the Bridge. Zane was still awake, calmly sitting in a chair he must have dragged up and reading.Â
âGood morning, [M/n].â
âGood morning, Zane. Anything?â
Zane sighed, closing his book, âNothing. Not even a small sign of the Serpentine. It is odd.â
âThat is odd. Truly nothing? No sightings at all?â
âNo. And while you two were gone we were handling sightings nearly everyday, but now there's nothing.â
âPythors planning something then. Perhaps heâs found one of the last Fangblades?âÂ
âPerhaps.â
âWhat do you know of Pythor?â Lord Garmadon questioned, both ninja jumping slightly in alarm. Neither had seen him approaching.Â
âWe donât know much. But we do know he is the last Anacondrai, and wants to release the Great Devourer,â Zane explained.
âHe isnât a strategist, rather an opportunist. But he is manipulative,â [M/n] added.Â
âAnd how did he take my son? Was he kidnapped off this ship?â
âNo. Lloyd . . . We were taking him to arcades and theaters so he wouldnât be bored while we were handling the Serpentine,â [M/n] began. âBut he must have seen the Serpentine or overheard them at one point, so he dressed like one using a costume from a costume store and followed them onto a bus. It took him to Ouraborous where he was captured. We went to retrieve him. We failed.â
âFailed how?â Garmadon hissed, red eyes gleaming.Â
âWe were captured, [M/n] was not. He fought against the army of Serpentine within the arena and fell when they injured his skull. But he did his best to rescue Lloyd. By my calculations he killed 48 Serpentine that day, all in an effort to rescue Lloyd.â Zane stared the Dark Lord down, blue eyes gleaming dangerously.Â
Lord Garmadon tilted his head, eyes narrowing, gaze flicking between the two. After a long moment of silence, the man nodded. âVery well.â He turned and left.Â
Zane hummed, unable to hide his curiosity. Garmadon was strange, and this would give him a chance to have some of his questions answered.Â
âIâll take my shift now,â [M/n] said, putting the interaction out of his mind. âWill you bring me something to eat when you have a moment?â
âI will. I was planning on making Plantain Frittatas and Mandazi for breakfast. Would you like me to bring you some coffee or tea?âÂ
âDo we still have that Masala Chai blend?âÂ
âWe do. I will bring you up a cup.âÂ
âÎÏ ÏαÏÎčÏÏÏ Î±ÎŽÎ”ÏÏÎ.â Zane left to start breakfast, leaving [M/n] to begin morning exercises on his own. (Thank you, brother)
He started off with Tai Chi, needing the easy movements on aching joints and strained muscles. Heâd learned from his coma that the martial art was essential to making sure his muscles didnât lock up.Â
That had been a horrible few months. Heâd been skin and bones, unable to walk with several different problems that heâd had to work through - fatigue, spasticity, headaches, mobility issues, and, of course, the Focal Retrograde Amnesia.Â
Only two years later were most of the problems gone, except the amnesia, and now he was dealing with similar issues. It brought back the bad memories of the beginning, when heâd woken and dealt with the confusion and built up anger and rage, ones he wished he could forget. The Tai Chi helped. With everything.Â
The smooth motions helped with the pain, helped him easily fall into that peaceful state of meditation. When Zane returned, he stopped to eat and drink, before returning to the martial art, allowing himself to lose himself in the movement, only to be broken from his peace when Nya entered.
âOh, I didnât realize youâd be up here,â Nya said. âWhat are you doing up here, anyways?âÂ
âKeeping a watch for anything suspicious.âÂ
Nya softened, âI see.âÂ
âZane made breakfast, if you are hungry. Plantain Frittatas and Mandazi.â
âI might, but it looks like a stormâs brewing,â Nya mumbled, pulling up the weather. âAnd it looks like it might get pretty bad, I mean look at that.â
[M/n] approached, silently peering at the screen, âIt does. Do you want me to go down and warn the others? Make sure theyâre ready to be put to work?âÂ
âYes, please. Iâll be busy making sure we donât fly off course.â
Chuckling [M/n] headed down to round up the ninja, sending them off to tie their belongings down, to lower the sails, or to help Nya prepare the Bounty. Once everyone had their jobs, [M/n] began helping Cole lower the sails, struggling slightly against the wind. By the time the storm came in everyone had gathered in the Bridge with dinner - made by Wu; Pork belly Okonomiyaki, Miso soup, cold Soba, salmon Taiyaki, and custard Taiyaki - just in case.Â
Sat around the table in the Bridge, the open seat a glaring detail.Â
âWhereâs Lord Garmadon?â Zane questioned, looking around. Kai, who hadnât sat down yet, nodded his head to the window.
âSunbathing.âÂ
Curious, everyone got up to peer out the front window to see Lord Garmadon sprawled out on a towel, rain pouring heavily. He was even wearing sunglasses and swim trunks, much to everyone's shock.Â
âLloyd ΎΔΜ Ξα ΌΔ ÏÎčÏÏÎÏΔÎč ÏÎżÏÎ,â [M/n] murmured, lips twitching. Sitting back down at the table, he dug into his dinner, shaking his head fondly. Luckily, the storm passed within a few hours, allowing them all to get back to business. (Lloyd will never believe me.)
While Zane did his best to keep [M/n] from staying in the Bridge 24/7, he only managed to make it so the ninja had one shift a day, breakfast to lunch. So, right now he was wandering through the ship, having been sent away by Zane now that it was someone elseâs shift in the Bridge. Or he was.Â
â[M/n]? Will you come with me?â Wu asked, quietly tilting his head.Â
âOf course, Sensei.â [M/n] silently caught up with his teacher, following him down towards the bedrooms. âSensei . . . What are we doing?âÂ
âYouâll see.âÂ
He found Nya waiting by the fifth room - a room theyâd turned into a storage room, keeping some of the furniture they didnât use but wasnât broken - and raised an eyebrow at his teacher.Â
âInside,â Wu ushered, gesturing for them to enter. Both were surprised to see the four Golden Weapons laid out on a side table. âI have come to understand that our mysterious samurai is a mystery no more.â
He closed the door behind him.Â
âOh, yeah, I guess they told you about that, huh?â Nya said, shrugging even as her face reddened. âI picked up a thing or two from you and the boys.â
âHumble,â [M/n] murmured.
âIt was foolish of me to think that a girl could not be the destined Green Ninja,â Wu continued, gesturing towards the weapons.
Nya stared, dumbfounded. A look to [M/n] showed he was just as surprised, watching Wu with an indiscernible look. âWait- If youâre trying to see if Iâm the Green Ninja then why is [M/n] here?â
Neither answered, but Nya was smart.Â
âOh shit-â
âLanguage.â
âSorry Sensei, but seriously? You-â
âI keep your secrets, you keep mine,â [M/n] whispered, cutting her off. Their little eavesdropper could work that out for himself.
Wu continued, âWhen the four Weapons are laid out before the destined one, the weapons will react, revealing the identity of the Green Ninja.â Wu waved her forward.
âBut, Sensei, what if I donât want to be the Green Ninja?â Wu looked surprised. âItâs just, Iâve seen what this obsession has done to Kai. And-and I like being Samurai X.âÂ
[M/n] stepped forward, resting a comforting hand on her shoulder.
âApproach the weapons,â Wu instructed, oddly kind. Nya hesitated for a moment longer, but ultimately stepped forward, only to sigh in relief when the weapons didnât react.
âNo harm done,â [M/n] teased.
Wu frowned, âThis means the Green Ninja is still out there.â
âWe have time, Sensei. They will be found.â
Nya was quick to leave, only to stop in the doorway. Lord Garmadon and Kai were in each other's faces, snarling, âGuys, guys, what are you doing out here?â
âPerhaps you should be asking Mr. Snoopy Pants that question,â Lord Garmadon hissed, grinning as Nya spun on Kai.
âWere you spying on me?â
âSensei brought the Weapons down here, I was just trying to keep an eye on them. Yaâknow, keeping watch. So . . . are you the Green Ninja? Or-or the SIlver?â Nya scowled, struggling to keep her eyes on Kai so she wouldnât give [M/n] away.Â
âOf course not.âÂ
Wu sighed, disappointed, âTruth is, she never wanted to know.âÂ
âI wanted to be like you, originally. But Iâve seen how obsessed youâve become with being the Green Ninja and now that Iâve discovered what I can do on my own, Iâm happy just being Samurai X.âÂ
âSo, who are the Legendary Ninja then?â
âPerhaps we will never know.â Jay came flying down the stairs, near tripping with how fast he was going.Â
âKai, you were supposed to be in the Bridge! Zaneâs Falcon spotted them!âÂ
Lord Garmadon and [M/n] shoved past Jay to bolt up the stairs, hurrying up to the Bridge, finding Zane and Cole already inside running through the footage. Across the screen, frozen in time, was the image of Lloyd being carried along in a bird cage.
âLloyd,â [M/n] whispered, stepping closer to the screen to try and get a better look at the boy.
âSon,â Lord Garmadon murmured, tensing at the sight of the cage.
Wu, Nya, Kai and Jay made up the stairs only a few moments later, Jay lagging behind, out of breath.Â
âThatâs the Temple of Fire,â Nya realized, recognizing the structure built into the front of the Volcano. âAnd it looks like heâs not alone.â A force made up of almost entirely Constrictai followed behind the Anacondrai, with only a few others from the other Tribes.Â
âThat means the Fangblade is there.â
âAnd Lloyd.â
âHey, isnât that where Lord Garmadon and Kai fought that first time?â Jay asked, genuinely curious. When he saw the looks he got, he shrank back. âHehe, not the time, got it.â
âIf my memory serves me correctly, I'd say one of us cheated back when we last fought.â
âAnd I remember someone needing their Sensei to save them.â
âHey! For the sake of the Fangblade and Lloyd, can we please just get along?" Cole asked, grabbing Kai by the shoulders to keep him from advancing. Lord Garmadon scowled, but backed off, sharing a look with his brother, before being pulled to the side.
âSince the last time we've been there, it looks like Kajiâs really earning its name, like, it's incredibly unstable. The place is a powder keg just waiting to blow up. This will be a highly combustible environment,â Nya explained, pulling up a variety of diagrams and previous reports on the volcano as a whole.Â
âOh, great. Just what I like. Fighting armed and deadly snakes in a highly combustible environment about to blow up!" Jay shrieked, flapping his hands in an effort to calm himself. Cole released Kai to try and comfort his youngest brother, resting a warm hand on his shoulder before Jay could spiral, grounding him. âThank you.â
âWe will do what we must,â Wu declared, tapping his staff on the wood. âLloyd and the Fangblade are too important for us to fail.â
âWe understand, Sensei. May I ask where our weapons are, so we may prepare for battle?â
No one noticed Kai slink out the door, muttering to himself, too busy working out the details. Jay was being worked down from a panic attack by Cole, Nya was pulling up more reports on the volcano with [M/n] hovering nearby, eyes never leaving Lloyd. Wu and Zane were simply facing the wrong direction.Â
Luckily, Cole happened to look around the room and realized both Kai and Lord Garmadon were missing. âKAI!â His booming yell startled everyone, his mad scramble to get out of the room just as surprising. [M/n] and Zane were the ones who caught on quickest, taking off after the black ninja, leaving the others to catch up.Â
Back down in the cabin, Cole was banging on the door to the storage room, but was blocked from shoving his way in by a locked door and chair. Through the circular window they could see the two fighting, flinging each other back and forth across the room.Â
âKai?! What are you doing?!" Nya demanded, reaching around to try and jiggle the doorknob.
âDiscovering my True Potential!"
Jay tried his own hand at kicking the door down, but it barely even trembled, âUnh! The door won't budge!"
âOh my FSM! He thinks defeating Lord Garmadon is the key to unlocking his True Potential,â Nya remembered, answering the unasked question.
âWhy would he think that?!" Zane asked.
Nya made the cuckoo gesture. "'Cause he thinks he's the Green Ninja!"
âThe Green Ninja? Well, if we don't open this door soon, I think he's gonna muori male!â Cole shouted, stepping back. Closing his eyes, he summoned his Full Potential, the air filled with the scent of dry earth, the air around him shimmering bronze-brown. âEarth!â
In a singular blow, Cole completely broke the door, and the chair keeping the door shut. They were all shocked to find Lord Garmadon pinned to the ground by Kai, âI defeated him. I did it! Are my eyes glowing? Did I unlock my powers? Is this my True Potential? Argh! Why isn't it working?"Â
[M/n], who had been completely still the entire time, snarled furiously. Surging forward, [M/n] completely ripped Kai off the Dark Lord, throwing him into the wall before flinging a knife at him. The small blade sliced through Kaiâs cheek and ear, leaving a bleeding cut and knick.Â
Yelping, Kaiâs hand flew to his cheek, shocked.Â
âI warned you-â
â[M/n], enough!"Â
Lord Garmadon stopped [M/n], grabbing him by the shoulder. âI wasn't going to hurt you, boy. I was only fetching your weapons.â
âLiar! You were stealing them! I caught you!â
âNo, I asked him to retrieve the weapons,â Wu corrected. He closed his eyes, sighing deeply. âPerhaps it is best you do not reach your True Potential, or else someone could get hurt.âÂ
âWay to go,â Jay grumbled, scowling.
Nya sighed, shaking her head, âAre you alright?â
âI'm fine, my dear, thank you for asking.â
Sending Kai one last glare, [M/n] followed after Lord Garmadon, stalking back up to the Bridge like a wrathful shadow. The other ninja followed behind, keeping a slight distance from him, a little nervous from [M/n]âs display.
The ship slowed.
âI believe we have reached our destination,â Zane said. âTime to get ready.â
Everyone changed, taking their Weapons from Wu before climbing down from the ship to stand on the path leading to the Temple Entrance. Dark cracks were spread across the cypress walls built into the volcano, smoke pouring forth to create a far more ominous atmosphere. Last time they had been there, the Temple had been far more ethereal, but now . . . It was offputting.Â
Lava streamed down the sides, creating lakes of bubbling heat that had already begun eating at the edges of the Forest of Tranquility.Â
âAlright, listen up,â Nya said, using the Falcon to communicate. âKaji is on the verge of eruption. All recent reports are indicating that this place is becoming increasingly fragile due to the lava eating through the cracks made by its last eruption. So the smallest disruption will make it erupt again, meaning your Golden Weapons canât be used.âÂ
âThen we will not use them,â Wu agreed. [M/n] slipped his Golden Tessens back into their sheaths, palming two karambit knives, their blades longer than normal.Â
âKai.â
âYeah, yeah. No Fire Sword. But only because I wouldnât want anything preventing us from getting that Fangblade,â Kai snapped, roughly sheathing his sword. Lord Garmadon and [M/n] growled in unison, making Kai tense.
âOr my son.â
On that note the group began the upwards walk into the temple. Above the entrance the symbol of Fire had been carved into the surface, now glowing from within. Entering they came upon a fork, one that had not been there before.Â
âThere. The Serpentine must be inside the inner core. From here on out, we travel by shadows," Wu decided, gesturing towards the new path that had been created.Â
Lord Garmadon gave them a vicious grin, taking the lead, âIt's the only way I know how." [M/n] was barely a step behind him, both blending into the shadows with ease.Â
Creeping their way down the tunnel, the group came to a stop behind a grouping of boulders that gave them a viewing of the entirety of the cavern. Pillars of stone connected by thrown together rope bridges and paths dug into the wall itself created a maze-like structure over the lava.Â
Jay tapped [M/n] on the shoulder, âThere! Thereâs Lloyd.â He pointed across the room, where Lloydâs cage was sitting on one of the paths.Â
âSon.âÂ
âLloyd.âÂ
Pythor, at that moment, lifted the Fangblade up victoriously, âThe third Fangblade is ours!" Laughing, he began admiring the carvings etched into the blade, only to notice something in its reflection. âNinja? Attack!â
âLight as a leaf. Attack like there is no tomorrow!â Wu ordered.Â
Everyone split up, except for [M/n] and Lord Garmadon, who began making their way towards Lloyd. Serpentine that tried to go against [M/n] were killed swiftly - blades smoothly slicing through the thin scales of the belly and wrists - while Lord Garmadon left the Serpentine facing him to burn alive, flinging them into the lava below.Â
A tremor had everyone, ninja and Serpentine alike, going still, trying to keep their balance, the lava bubbling violently in warning. At first, [M/n] believed the Constrictai to be at fault but when he looked around, he saw Kai holding up the Sword of Fire. Said sword was glowing brighter with heat, smoke pouring forth from the blade, stronger in an environment rich with fire.Â
âKai, the weapon is compromising your safety!â The Falcon swooped overhead, feeding a direct video to Nya.
âIâll do what I have to.âÂ
Kai went after Pythor, who fled only after giving one last command to the Constrictai. The Tribe members began digging into the walls, much faster than before which had the volcano trembling more, growing more unstable by the minute.Â
âWe must hurry! Theyâre making the Volcano more unstable!â Zane yelled, shocked.Â
Lord Garmadon and [M/n] picked up their pace, shoving past fleeing Serpentine to get to Lloyd.Â
âThis place is gonna blow! We have to get out of here," Jay cried, already backing away.
âNot without my son!"
"Not without Lloyd!"
Lloyd, who had been nervously watching, finally saw and heard his dad yelling. âDad!â The Serpentine carrying him away suddenly dropped the cage, valuing their lives over their prisoner, the pole getting caught in the rocks as the cage itself hung over the lava. âDad! Help!â
âSon!â Garmadon yelled, frantically trying to reach his son as the cage dropped, shuddering. [M/n] reached for KhÄlai, who took on the form of a Lammergier. Swooping ahead KhÄlai grabbed onto the top of the cage, lifting it up to try and set it down on the rocky path as the lava climbed higher.
Leaping down, Garmadon used his two right arms to cling to the rock, long claws sinking into the rock, completely tearing off the lock with one hand to reach in and grab his son with the other. Once he was free, KhÄlai released the cage which dropped into the lava below.Â
âDad!â Lloyd sobbed, tucking his face into his fathers armored shoulder. âYou came!â
âSon,â Garmadon murmured, climbing back up to solid ground to better hold his son. âOh my boy, of course I did. You will always be mine.â He pressed his face into Lloydâs blond hair, releasing a shuddering breath. Eyes sliding closed, they clung to each other - father and son reunited for the first time in 11 years.Â
[M/n] stood off to the side, completely relieved to know Lloyd was alright, watching them reunite with open relief. KhÄlai returned to the ninja, form collapsing into smoke to be absorbed back into his skin â that heat in his chest finally cooling to something more manageable.Â
Garmadon was startled when his son looked up from his shoulder, spotted [M/n], and began trying to wiggle free with a loud cry, â[M/n]!â Quickly released, Lloyd barreled into [M/n].Â
Frozen for a moment, it took the ninja a moment before he knelt down to hold Lloyd close. Garmadon was surprised by the interaction, by how tightly his son was clinging to the purple ninja, almost trying to climb into the other's skin. It occurred to him that, in hindsight, their closeness should have been more obvious due to his concern, and all of the stories [M/n], specifically, had told him.
The moment was broken when the volcano rumbled again.
Picking him up, [M/n] and Garmadon were quick to hurry back down the path to the others, who were gathered at a different entrance, the original blocked off, ready to leave. Kai was the only one who wasnât there, rather he was still down below, trying to reach for the Fangblade that was balanced on a rock slowly sinking into the lava.Â
âLeave it, Kai! It's not worth your life!" Jay shouted.
âNot without that Fangblade!"
Lloyd wiggled around, dropping out of [M/n]âs arms when he loosened his grip stepping closer to the edge, yelling out, âBut what about Kai? Kai!â [M/n] wasnât even a full step behind him, looming over Lloyd protectively as Lord Garmadon loomed over them both from two feet away, rubies eyes narrowed.
Another rumble, stronger than the others, had the volcano cracking, rocks crumbling into the lava. The ledge the group was on shuddered, before the lip dropped. [M/n] barely managed to grab onto Lloyd due to the suddenness. Eyes wide, true fear crawled through [M/n]âs entire body.Â
âWas this how Lloyd would die? So painfully?â
In a stroke of pure dumb luck, the slab that had been beneath them hit the lava first with [M/n] falling onto it, back first, Lloyd tucked into his arms, protected for the moment. While the air was completely knocked out of him, Lloyd, at least, seemed fine.Â
Wheezing, [M/n] could faintly hear Garmadon and Zane screaming for them as Lloyd yelled back, terrified, âDad! Dad! Iâm sinking! Help!â
His frantic calls for help picked up when the two were forcibly dragged off, another rumble sending rocks into the path, closing it off. Using all his strength, [M/n] pushed himself up, wheezing faintly as he caught his breath. Looking around, he noticed how close the cliff wall was to the slab.Â
Maybe he could reach it and carry Lloyd back up the cliff to get away from the lava. Lloyd hiccuped, [M/n] gently grabbing his shoulder. âLloyd, you need to listen to me. I am going to try to get us out of here, but I need you to remain calm, alright? Once I find handholds Iâll carry you up, but stay right here for now.â
Lloyd whimpered, trying to calm down, âOkay.â
Balenced on his knees, [M/n] reached over to the wall to try and find a few handholds to climb up. The wall of rock however was crumbling, no handhold strong enough. Nowhere near strong enough to hold them both. Growing frustrated, he extended himself further, anchoring himself on his right hand to try and reach higher without standing. That would tip this already sinking slab.
The lava bubbled, growing more and more volatile. A simple pop sent a spray of lava into the air. Right onto the purple ninja. It splashed across his extended left arm, hand, collar, neck, and chin, a droplet or two even making it to his cheek, just beneath his eye.Â
For a simple moment, [M/n] didnât react, frozen in place as the sizzling sound filled the air. His senses dulled. When the pain came, it consumed him, his skin burning and blistering, senses going haywire. The excruciating pain had him curling in on himself with a scream, the sound more of a high-pitched wail as he nearly threw himself back onto the slab. Curling into a ball, he continued to wail, the sound cracking and petering off.
Lava ate through the sleeve of his GI, completely eating away at the top layers of skin and burning into the muscle below. His eye bulged, affected by the heat coming from the wound on his cheek. Pale smoke drifted from the different burn wounds, the smell of cooked meat filling the air.Â
Lloyd sobbed fearfully, crawling to [M/n]âs other side, clinging to his uninjured arm. He screamed when [M/n] simply collapsed, like a puppet with no strings, simply unable to take the pain any longer.Â
âKAI!!!! HELP!!!!âÂ
The screaming and wailing had finally caught Kaiâs attention, shocking him to the core. Even across the cavern he could see the thin wisps of smoke trailing from his still body, [M/n]âs burnt arm sprawled out on the slab as Lloyd clung to him fearfully.Â
He stared at the ninja who had only just attacked him an hour ago, threatened him barely a week ago. But he couldnât fit the image of the entitled, arrogant ninja heâd built up in his mind over this injured, collapsed version of him.Â
Instead he remembered the ninja that had thrown himself into battle to try and rescue them and Lloyd, the one who had reacted immediately to try and wash out the Venomari Venom, the one who had passed over Green Tea to try and help him with the affects, and done other little things, not just for him but for the others as well. Heâd always treated them like brothers, annoying little brothers maybe, but brothers nonetheless. And heâd been the one to disrespect that trust [M/n] had in him, been too focused on himself, on his own path when [M/n] was worrying about Lloyd. If Lloyd was going to have a future.
He looked back to the Fangblade, knowing there was only one choice to make.
Abandoning the blade, he leapt across the rocks to make it to the slab the two were one, doing his best not to land on either of them since it was so small. âHold on, kid, Iâm gonna get us outta here.â
As carefully as he could, Kai pulled the younger ninja over his shoulders, trying not to touch the burns but the way they sat made it difficult. A pained whine escaped [M/n], Lloydâs sobbing quickly renewing. Once [M/n] was adjusted properly, he grabbed Lloyd, setting him on his hip - like he used to do with his sister.Â
The rumbling in the volcano only grew worse as Kai tried to leap from slab to slab, trying to find a more stable one. Cursing Kai struggled to find one that wasnât going to sink within the next few minutes, noticing just how light the two were as he jumped around. Granted, they could both weigh only ten pounds and heâd struggle, jumping around in this extreme heat. When he landed on the highest point - the lava rising - he could get to, he realized that there was nowhere else for them to go. His Spinjitzu wouldnât get them up high enough to escape through the top and all the entrances were closed off.
Sweat poured down his face, breath coming in heavy pants. Glancing down at Lloyd - who had reached across his chest to curl his fingers into the purple sleeve of [M/n]âs uninjured arm, knuckles white - he learned something. Kai wasn't meant to be one of the Legendary Ninja, but to be the Green Ninjaâs protector. He let go of his ambition, feeling something in his heart settle.
The air around him glowed with heat, shimmering orange-gold as his eyes began to glow. Just as the volcano erupted a red sphere formed, protecting them from the white-hot lava surging around them as they were launched out. Lloyd cried out in fear, tucking himself closer as Kai struggled to control the sphere, panting to keep it stable. A sigh of relief escaped him when he saw the Bounty, directing them towards it.
Hurtling towards the Bounty, Kai managed to slow down but lost control at the last moment. Struggling he tried to make sure [M/n] and Lloyd didnât hit the Bountyâs deck first, grunting painfully when he collided with the wood. Lloyd was quickly torn from his grip, Garmadon, he realized, vision swimming.
Cole and Jay were pulling [M/n] away, shouting back and forth as they struggled to help. Zane and Wu were both trying to ask him questions, Nya clinging to his hand throughout it all, but everything was just white noise.Â
Zane - realizing asking questions wasnât getting them anywhere - put his focus on [M/n]. He took in the third-degree burns scattered across his arms, face, neck, and collar, quickly barking out orders. âGet me the stretcher from below! Now, Jay!â Jay sprinted downstairs, quickly bringing it back up.Â
Cole and Zane worked together to get [M/n] onto the stretcher, Jay keeping it steady as Lloyd explained through sobs what had happened. Getting him on the cot downstairs was difficult, the fabric rubbing at his burns, making the ninja whine pitifully. Once on it, he settled, still completely unconscious. He was so utterly still, Zane sought out a pulse, trying to keep himself calm. Finding it was a relief.Â
âNya, pull out the oxygen masks from the cabinet, make sure that Kai and Lloyd keep those on while I work and keep an eye on them.â Zane cut away [M/n]âs GI. âI need to clean the burns. Jay, hand over the kit with the tools, Cole, find me the morphine and IV bags.âÂ
Once the IV drip was set up, with morphine and saline for pain and dehydration, Zane began the process of cleaning out the burns.Â
Contrary to popular belief lava was not sterile because it was hot, rather unclean since it was made of molten rock. Using a sterile solution to try and clean out the wound, Zane was able to see just how bad the burns were. Several areas were going to need to be cut away to remove the dead tissue before it got infected and made it worse.Â
So he worked, Cole hovering the entire time in case [M/n] woke up.Â
The morphine was the strongest medicine they had so it was doubtful he was going to, but they had only gotten it because of some friend of [M/n]âs that was able to get a small case of 12 vials.Â
Zane was wrong. [M/n] woke up in the middle of Zane dealing with the smaller burn located just beneath his eye. Cole barely managed to grab him by the skull in time, holding him still before he took out his own eye with the scalpel in his panic.
Screaming rawly, [M/n] reached up to try and tear Coleâs arm away, claws sinking past the sleeve of his GI.Â
âMerda! I need some help!!!â Cole bellowed, wincing as he climbed onto the cot to keep [M/n] still.Â
Jay, Nya, and Wu came rushing down the stairs, Jay making it into the room first. He wrestled with [M/n]âs arms, freeing Cole to keep his head still. Nya and Wu pinned his torso and legs down so he couldnât break free.Â
Everyone was forced to listen to [M/n] desperation, snarls and whines that became wails and screams of pain and fear, until Zane could up the dosage of morphine.Â
âWhy didnât it last longer?!â Nya demanded, struggling to keep his torso still without crushing his chest.Â
Wuâs lips pursed, âIt is his Element. It must believe the morphine is a poison and is trying to purge it quickly so he doesnât get sick.â
âElements can do that?!âÂ
âNo, only his.âÂ
Zane, taking this into account, hesitantly gave [M/n] 25mL using the IV drip tube. In his own mind he thought a silent prayer, âPlease donât kill him.â
[M/n] shuddered, continuing to fight until the pain began to dull. His [e/c] eyes went glossy, body going lax as the morphine worked its way through his system. Within 10 minutes, the ninja was silent again, only low puffs of panting escaping.Â
Slowly everyone released him, watching as the ninja slipped into unconsciousness, relieved he was silent.Â
âHow long will it last?âÂ
âI gave him 25mL, 5mL more than any normal person could take. 10mL lasted over an hour, so perhaps two. Sensei?â
The man was silent, startling slightly when he realized they were looking at him. âYes, two seems right. I . . . I must speak with my brother.â
Wu left, obviously disturbed.Â
âIâll stay,â Nya volunteered, perching on the chair they had tucked in the corner.Â
âMe too.â Jay perched on the stool, pulling a mess of scrap metal from his pocket to work with.Â
Zane set back to work, cutting away dead tissue for another half hour. Once finished with that, he pulled out the gauze heâd left soaking in the saline to wrap the wounds to make sure they wouldnât dry out and become worse.
Heâd have to cover that with a dry dressing to further keep the wounds safe but Zane would use his own clothing to ensure his brother recovered properly. No matter how time consuming the process, he would ensure his brother would be alright.
When he finished, Zane nearly collapsed, Jay quickly scrambling off the stool so he could sit.Â
âZane? Whatâs wrong? Is it your gears?âÂ
âNo, just . . .â Zane choked, unable to get the words out for a long moment. âIt is more than just that.â
Nya came over to hug him, âI get it.â The two embraced, Jay and Cole hanging their heads.Â
âJay, will you bring everyone down? I need to check on Kai and Lloyd as well. Make sure there are no effects from smoke inhalation or burns from air exposure.âÂ
âGot it.âÂ
Once gathered, Zane had Garmadon set Lloyd down on the edge of the cot, allowing the boy to get a better look at [M/n] in turn for being cooperative.Â
After checking him over, Zane looked to Lord Garmadon, âHis airways are clear, but his skin has 1st and 2nd degree burns. Luckily both can be taken care of with aloe vera, but only after he takes a cool shower.â
Lord Garmadon grunted.Â
âKai.â Said teen sighed, reluctantly perching on the stool to be checked over. âHow did you survive? How did you discover the key to unlocking your powers?â
âI did it after I made my choice. I wanted the Fangblade so badly, to prove I was good enough to become the Green Ninja. But then when [M/n] was injured, and I had to rescue him and Lloyd, I figured it out. All of my training to become the best ninja wasn't in preparation to become the Green Ninja. It was . . . to protect the Green Ninja.â Kai glanced Lloydâs way.Â
It took a second for Lloyd to notice, occupied with watching [M/n] breath. âWhat? What is everybody looking at me for?â
âThat means . . .â Nya trailed off, piecing it all together. The four Golden Weapons were gathered, held out towards Lloyd to see their reaction.Â
Once in his presence the Golden Weapons were caught in a green and gold energy field that held them in place, floating gently in the air.Â
âLloyd is the Green Ninja. I had thought it would be one of you, but it was him the whole time. It all makes sense. Not only have you four been chosen to protect the Golden Weapons, but also to protect the Chosen One," Wu stated, pride slipping into his voice, tired as he was.Â
âThat means . . ." Lord Garmadon said, red eyes weary and old. Before the weapons could fall, the ninja caught them, not wanting to disturb the unconscious teen.Â
âThe battle lines have been drawn, brother. Sadly, our family has only become more divided. Brother versus brother, and now, son versus father."Â
Lloyd was lost, still unsure of who or what the Green Ninja was but it seemed bad. Son versus father? Did that mean he would have to fight his dad? He looked down to [M/n], wishing he was awake to explain, to help.Â
Everything was easier with [M/n] around.Â
âUhm, hate to break the tension, but what happened to the Fangblade?âÂ
âMaybe it was melted in the volcano?âÂ
âI do not believe that is possible,â Wu admitted. âThe Fangblades are not made of normal metals. It is possible the metal chosen could withstand the heat of an active volcano.â
âThen we need to figure out where the last Fangblade is,â Cole said, sparing [M/n] a somber look.Â
Everyone left the room, except for Lord Garmadon and Lloyd.Â
âLord Garmadon, there should be aloe vera in one of the cabinets and he can use the shower. He should do that before he lays with [M/n].â
Zane wasnât stupid. He knew Lloyd would do it and he would rather the boy be properly cared for before that.Â
Garmadon nodded, reaching for his son to usher him off the cot, much to his protests.Â
After a cool, 20 minute shower, Garmadon helped lather the aloe across the areas Zane had pointed out - his face, hands, and parts of his arms and legs that had been exposed due to rips in his clothing. It was due to luck that his clothing was thick enough to protect his skin.Â
Done and dressed, Lloyd climbed right back into the cot, perched at [M/n]âs side. He stared down at [M/n], impatiently waiting for him to wake up or do something. But the older remained passed out.Â
The more time that passed with no movement the more worried Lloyd became. Lip trembling, Lloyd couldnât hold back anymore and began crying, shoulders shaking.Â
Garmadon reached out, pressing a wide, clawed hand over Lloydâs back, gently murmuring, âSon . . .â
âItâs my fault!â Lloyd sobbed, burying his face into his hands.Â
âIt is not your fault-"Â
âIt is! If I hadn't been caught he wouldn't have come after me! He wouldn't have been injured! Why?!"Â
âWhy what, my son?â
âWhy did he come after me? Why did he get injured for me? I don't understand.â The last word pitched up into a wail.Â
The gentle brushing of knuckles against his wrist startled Lloyd and Garmadon.Â
âNoâ your faulâ,â [M/n] mumbled, words slurring, eyes barely open. âCome no maâer whaâ. You are mine. Mine âo proâect.âÂ
Lloyd sobbed harder, burying his fingers into the cotton shirt [M/n] had been changed into. Garmadon watched the scene - watched as [M/n] gently arranged Lloyd at his side, partially on top of the uninjured side of his chest. He hid every wince, drawing up the blanket to properly cover Lloyd.Â
Settled close, Lloyd seemed soothed, and [M/n] even seemed calmer, good arm curled around his back.Â
Garmadon dragged the chair closer, settling into it as the two began to drift off to sleep, tears drying on their cheeks. Seeing the ninjaâs exhaustion, even though he continued to blink himself awake, he reached for the last shred of humanity, âSleep ninja. I will guard you.â
âThank you.â [M/n] tightened his grip on Lloyd, falling back asleep.
The journey to find the Bounty had taken nearly a week, but they had finally found it. Docked, luckily, so they simply walked right onto the empty deck.
Garmadon fell behind as they walked further on board, blending into the shadows perfectly with his black skin and grey markings to break up his defined shape.Â
"Hello! We're home!" Wu called.
From within the ship, multiple voices shouted, "Sensei! [M/n]!"
Nya made it on deck first and nearly threw herself into [M/n]'s arms, happy to have him home. Pulling back she gasped as she saw how much healthier he looked, "Your wounds?! They're gone!"
[M/n] chuckled, nodding but didn't tell her why, deciding to keep that one to himself for a little while. The other ninja, sans Kai, made it up and were quick to greet Sensei Wu and [M/n].
Zane tugged [M/n] into another hug, long dreads brushing the others cheek as he bent down a little.Â
"Ah. It's so good to be home," Wu stated.
"We are so glad you both are back," Zane said, pulling back from [M/n] with a soft smile.Â
"Did you bring us anything?" Cole teased.Â
"Oh, Sensei, have you missed a lot. Zane's a Nindroid, Nya's the mysterious Samurai, Cole's a dancerâ" Jay began, only to cut himself off when he saw the bewildered looks the two were sporting.Â
"Zane is a...what?" Wu asked, brows furrowing. [M/n] realized Nindroid meant robot and looked to Zane who was watching him worridly. He reached out and clasped a hand on Zane's shoulder.Â
Zane was still his brother, no matter what.Â
"You've been gone a while. We'll catch you up later. But you should know, all of us except for Kai have discovered our True Potential," Zane reported, relieved that his closest brother held no judgement to this newfound knowledge.Â
"Have you now? Where is Kai?" Wu asked, looking around for the red ninja. Said ninja came running up the stairs, panting a little as he came to a stop in front of them.Â
"Right here. So glad you're back safe," Kai stated. Lord Garmadon chose that moment to step out from the shadows, making Kai's eyes go wide. "Aah! Sensei, behind you!"
Kai went on the offensive, lunging for Lord Garmadon as Zane jumped in front of Sensei Wu to protect him. "Ugh! He's got four arms!"
"Kai, stop! He is the reason I left. For so long as Pythor has Lloyd, he will be our guest," Wu ordered, forcing Kai to come to a stop as all four ninja gaped at their Sensei.
All of them began talking over one another.
"We have to live with this guy?!"
"But Sensei, he has four arms!"
"Uh, must I remind you ever since he turned evil, he's been trying to get our Golden Weapons?"
Wu's eyes flashed gold but he was quick to take control of himself and force it down. "ENOUGH!"
Nya, who had stayed silent the entire time, looked to [M/n] who seemed calm and wholly unbothered by Lord Garmadons presence. She wouldn't trust him but she'd tolerate him as long as he was needed.Â
"Yes, Sensei."
"This isn't about the weapons. It's about my son," Lord Garmadon stated. Kai nearly scoffed but [M/n] stared him down until he looked away.
"From here on out, you will obey me and you will respect my brother," Wu ordered, looking each of his students in the eye.
"Yes, Sensei."Â
Wu chose not to reprimend [M/n] for not agreeing, simply because he knew the ninja would tolerate Lord Garmadon until Lloyd was rescued. At the very least he wouldn't antagonize Lord Garmadon, unless they were sparring or he was provoked.Â
"Now to the bridge. We must put our attention to more pressing matters," Wu stated. He was obediantly followed up to the bridge, everyone a little cowed by his brief display of anger. "So, where are we at with the four Fangblades?"
"Oh, Pythor's managed to take the first two, but there's still two left," Jay admitted, shuffling his feet.Â
"And we only need one in order to prevent him from unleashing the Great Devourer," Cole added.
"Any luck finding their whereabouts?"Â
"No, but the Falcon is programmed to alert us if he sees any suspicious activity," Zane explained, not noticing the strange look Wu gave him before he recovered.Â
"Good. If we find the Fangblade, we find Lloyd. Kai and Nya, prepare the deck and double check the anchor. We need to be ready when we first get word of activity," Wu ordered.
"Yes, Sensei," the siblings chorused.Â
"I've got my eye on you," Kai hissed, as he passed Lord Garmadon. He ran into the door frame â having been too focused on the Dark Lord â making Nya groan and grab him by the arm to forcefully drag him out of the Bridge.Â
Digging his heels in, he made the universal sign for 'I'm watching you' as Lord Garmadon scoffed.
"Zane, did you say the Falcon was . . . programmed?" Wu asked. [M/n] chose that moment to slip away, needing a moment of privacy.
His feet took him to the deck but he paused when he heard Kai's ranting. The ninja had held a grudge against Lord Garmadon ever since their fight in the Temple of Fire. "But Nya, did you see he has four arms? Wherever Sensei and [M/n] found him, he's now made it possible so that he can possess all four weapons at once. I don't trust him. Not one bit."
"You have to remember, he's not just the Dark Lord, he's also Sensei's brother and Lloyd's dad. Though he's pure evil, Sensei holds him close to his heart. And [M/n] cares about Lloyd and really wants him back so he's not going to object against his presence if it means Lloyd will be rescued," Nya pointed out.
"That's it."
"What?"
"To unlock my power. Sensei said the heart is the key. Maybe if I stand up to Lord Garmadon, I'll find my True Potential and then everyone can see I'm the Green Ninja! Ha! Nya, you are a genius!" Kai cheered.Â
"I don't quite follow your logic," Nya admitted.
"No time to explain. I have to go train. If I'm gonna confront Garmadon soon," Kai began, doing a backflip and landing on the lower deck with a thump. [M/n] sank into the shadows, retreating down the hallway to wait. "I gotta be at the top of my game."
"But Sensei said he's our guest."
"Garmadon might've fooled Sensei, but don't think for a second I'm not keeping my eye on him. Nya, the Lord of Darkness just became our roommate!" Nya watched helplessly as her brother took off running, before going back to her job.
Kai nearly ran right past [M/n] until the teen stepped out, directly in front of him. He barely stopped in time to avoid bowling the younger ninja over. "[M/n]! Is there something you need? I really need to-"
"You don't 'really need' to do anything," [M/n] hissed, making Kai go still. It was the same tone he'd used when speaking to Pythor and it slid down his spine like a knife. "Hear me when I speak. If you attack Lord Garmadon or threaten our chances of rescuing Lloyd I will give a front row seat to a bloodbath. Do you understand me?"
"Wha- But- Sensei wouldn't-"
"Do you think he could stop me in time? Besides," [M/n] snarled, stepping closer to whisper into his ear, "I know exactly where to cut you to make you bleed without killing you."
[M/n] pulled away and dissapeared further into the Bounty without a sound. He took the long way to get back to the Bridge, savoring the silence of his journey.
In the Bridge he sought out more about Lloyd's disappearance even though they'd seen nothing of the boy since Ourabourus. Zane eventually came to find him for dinner, unbothered by how silent [M/n] was, mind running through hypotheticals.
While eating, he noticed what Garmadon was eating but ignored it. It wasn't any of his business what the mans diet was, plus he seemed to be fucking with Kai.Â
"Cosa sta mangiando?" Cole whispered to himself as he eyed Lord Garmadons plate.Â
Kai answered, guessing at what he was asking, "Condensed evil. Supposed to be low in fat."
One of the grubs made its way off Lord Garmadon's plate and Kai recoiled as it came towards him before flicking it away.Â
After dinner everyone went their seperate ways until bed.Â
[M/n] once again found himself in the Bridge staring up at the screens. Zane joined him not long after. "We can set up a watch to alert us if the Falcon sees anything," Zane offered. "It's not healthy for you to be up here all the time."
"It's my fault he's still there. I should be the one-"
"And what happens when we do find him and you are in no state to help?"Â
"I was working on little sleep and exhaustion when we went to Ourobourus the first time. You saw what I did."
"And what if it is not enough? Last time you had the drop on them because they were expecting you to be in the cage with the rest of us. If Pythor is smart enough he will have done his research and found ways to hurt you," Zane pointed out. [M/n] wanted to argue but he knew the other was right.Â
He leaned against the console, careful not to touch any buttons.
"What do you think he thinks of me now?" [M/n] asked, laughing humorlessly. "KhÄlai and I slaughtered well over 30 Serpentine in that Arena before I dropped and I do not doubt I left more injured."Â
His accent thickened his words as he looked away.Â
"I think Lloyd will know that you care very deeply for him. Lord Garmadon has killed before, and I doubt Darkley's strayed away from that information."
"They wouldn't. If you were to become a Dark Lord you had to understand how to wield and witness death." Zane was a little surprised but took it in stride.Â
"You care about Lloyd. And I know it goes deeper than being his Protector."Â
[M/n] smiled slightly, unsurprised. "How long have you known?"Â
"A while. There were clues I was able to put together but I doubt the others have."
"You really think Lloyd will understand what I did? What I do?"Â
"Yes. I believe out of all of us he will understand the most."
"And how do you feel about it?"
"I understand why you do it. But I do not agree. I also know it would be a pointless fight as our morals and eithics differ. We are friends, [M/n]."
"Thank you, Zane. I will take the first watch. Tonight. We can figure out the schedule at breakfast."
[M/n] smiled, eternally grateful for his brother and the two headed down to their room to change. Brushing their teeth, neither noticed Lord Garmadon lifting a dagger to his teeth until it created a piercing, grating sound that had [M/n] flinching and hunching in on himself.Â
Rushing through his routine, he hurried to dress in more comfortable clothes as the others glared at Lord Garmadon. He chose more workout-esque clothing because he needed to stretch out his muscles, still tense from the near two weeks of little movement.Â
He left just as Lord Garmadon's hands sparked with dark purple lightning, making everyone groan.Â
Nya passed by with a mumbled good night before stumbling into her own room.Â
[M/n] spent the night stretching and practicing yoga and checking the screens in rotation. He still remembered how he'd looked after his coma. Skin barely clinging to his bone, the complete lack of muscle anywhere, and the color of his skin had been unhealthy since he hadn't had the proper nutrition for months.Â
Morning came with a storm so it was all hands on deck. Everyone was in the Bridge in case it got worse.Â
"Where's Garmadon?" Zane asked, noticing the man was not with them.Â
"Sunbathing," Kai sneered, gesturing outside. [M/n] peered out the window and found Lord Garmadon laying on a towel with sunglasses and shorts on doing exactly as Kai said he was.
"Î ÎÏÎčÎœÏ ÎŽÎ”Îœ Ξα ΌΔ ÏÎčÏÏÎÏΔÎč ÏÎżÏÎ," [M/n] mumbled, shaking his head in amusement. (Lloyd will never believe me)
Since the storm was already beginning to recede, [M/n] headed downstairs to their room to take a needed nap. When he woke, he went in search of Wu and found Zane, Kai, and Cole all watching Lord Garmadon as he played a video game with two controllers.
"He's not even playing the game right. He's just shooting and destroying things," Kai complained.Â
"I've noticed when he isn't so focused on trying to turn Ninjago into his own image, he's actually quite fascinating," Zane admitted.Â
"Sure, the four arms are freakish, but all in all, he doesn't seem that bad of a guy," Cole stated, shrugging.Â
"He might be pulling the wool over all your eyes, but not mine. He's up to something. And I'm gonna be ready for it," Kai snapped, scowling as the two rolled their eyes at him.Â
[M/n] spoke up, making all three jump, something he delighted in, "His priority right now is his son. You would do well to remember that."
Kai barely held back a flinch as [e/c] eyes cut over to him, before the ninja continued on his way to find Wu. The old man had caught him on his way to his room earlier and asked him to find him after he woke up.Â
He found him, and Nya, waiting outside of a small storage room. Wu lead them both inside, surprising them both when they saw the Golden Weapons resting on the small table inside.
"I have come to understand the mysterious Samurai is no longer a mystery," Wu stated, firmly closing the door.Â
"Oh yeah, you heard about that. I guess I picked up a thing or two," Nya said, shrugging even as her face reddened.
"Humble," [M/n] teased, leaning back against the wall.
"It was foolish of me to think that a girl could not be the destined Green Ninja," Wu admitted, gesturing towards the Golden Weapons as Nya stared at him dumbfounded.Â
She glanced to [M/n], who was far too calm, and he could see the gears turning before it clicked. "You're the-"Â
"I keep your secrets, you keep mine," [M/n] stated, cutting her off. Their little eavesdropper could figure it out on his own.Â
"When the four weapons are laid out before the destined one, the weapons will react, revealing the identity of the Green Ninja," Wu revealed.Â
"But, Sensei what if I don't want to be the Green Ninja?" Nya asked, a little anxiously. "You've seen what its done to Kai. I like being Samurai X."
[M/n] moved closer, gently resting a hand on her shoulder, comforting her. "Approach the weapons," Wu instructed kindly.Â
Nya stepped forward after taking a deep, steadying breath, only for the weapons to stay stationary. Seeing that, Nya relaxed.
"Then the Green Ninja is still out there."
Nya was quick to leave, but paused at the door when she found Kai and Lord Garmadon staring each other down and arguing just outside the door. "Guys, guys, what are you doing out here?"
"Perhaps you should be asking Mr. Snoopy Pants that question," Lord Garmadon hissed, smirking as Nya spun on Kai.
"Kai, were you spying on me?"Â
"What? No way! I was, uh, keeping watch. So are you the Green Ninja? Or the Silver Ninja?" Kai asked eagerly. Nya scowled, struggling to keep her eyes on her brother so she didn't reveal [M/n]'s secret.Â
"What? Of course not."
"So the weapons didn't tell you. Ah, that means I still have a chance," Kai said.
Wu sighed, worried and a little dissapointed. "Truth is, she never wanted to know."
"At first, all I wanted was to be like you, but after seeing how obsessed you've become and discovering what I could do on my own, I'm happy being a Samurai," Nya stated.
"So, then who are the Legendary Ninja?"Â
"Perhaps we will never know." Jay came flying down the nearby stairs, nearly tripping from how fast he was moving.Â
"Kai, you were supposed to be in the bridge. Zane's Falcon spotted them," Jay reported.
Lord Garmadon and [M/n] both pushed past the blue ninja, making there way up to the Bridge as quickly as they could. Zane and Cole were already there, running through the video.
"Lloyd," [M/n] whispered, seeing the boy stuck in a bird like cage.
"My son," Lord Garmadon rasped.Â
Wu, Nya, and Kai rushed up the stairs with Jay lagging behind a little bit.Â
"Looks like Pythor is at the Temple of Fire," Nya stated, recognizing the Temple as the group of Serpentine, mainly Constrictai, made their way closer.
"That means the Fangblade is there," Kai said.
"And Lloyd."
"That's the same Fire Temple where Kai and Lord Garmadon first faced off," Jay added before shrinking back at the looks he got.Â
"If my memory serves me correct, I'd say one of us cheated back when we last fought," Kai sneered.
"And I remember someone needing their Sensei to save them," Lord Garmadon retaliated, stepping closer.Â
"Hey! For the sake of the Fangblade and Lloyd, can we please just get along?" Cole asked, grabbing Kai by the shoulder to stop him from advancing.Â
Lord Garmadon scowled, but backed off. Wu stepped up beside his brother and asked if he would retrieve the Golden Weapons from below to bring them back up. With the incoming fight, they would be needed.Â
"Since the last time we've been there, it looks like the volcano has grown unstable. The place is a powder keg just waiting to blow up. This will be a highly combustible environment," Nya explained.
"Oh, great. Just what I like. Fighting armed and deadly snakes in a highly combustible environment about to blow up!" Jay shrieked, flapping his hands.Â
"We will do what we must," Wu stated.
"Yes, Sensei. But where are our weapons?" Zane asked, remembering that Wu had taken them earlier.Â
Kai, who was next to the door, scowled and muttered to himself, "And why is Lord Garmadon not here?" He was quick to leave the room while everyone's backs were turned.Â
Cole was the first to notice, and since Lord Garmadon was also gone he quickly pieced it together. "Kai!" He took off with everyone else hot on his tail, but they made it to late as Kai slammed and locked the door.Â
"Kai?! What are you doing?!" Nya demanded, fiddling with the doorknob.Â
"Discovering my True Potential!" Kai shouted.
Jay tried to kick the door down but the locks were strong and the door was thick.Â
"Unh! The door won't budge!" Jay cried.Â
"Kai thinks he'll unlock his power if he stands up to Lord Garmadon," Nya remembered.
"Why would he think that?!" Zane asked.
Nya made the cuckoo gesture. "'Cause he thinks he's the Green Ninja!"
"Well, if we don't open this door soon, I think he's gonna be mincemeat! Stand back!" Cole shouted. He summoned his True Potential, glowing bronze as he prepared to break the door down. "Earth!"Â
Breaking down the door, they found Lord Garmadon pinned to the ground by Kai. "I defeated him. I did it! Are my eyes glowing? Did I unlock my po-+wers? Is this my True Potential? Argh! Why isn't it working?"Â
[M/n], who had been still the entire time, lunged, filling the room with a snarl. He flung Kai into the wall, throwing a smaller hidden knife from his sleeve that sliced through the ninjas cheek. Kai tried to stumble away, but [M/n] blocked his path eyes glowing.Â
"I warned you." He seemed ready to lunge again, but he was stopped by Lord Garmadon grabbing him by the shoulder.Â
"I wasn't going to hurt you, boy. I was only fetching your weapons," Lord Garmadon stated.
"But you were trying to steal them!"Â
"I asked him to get them. Perhaps it is best you do not reach your True Potential, or else someone could get hurt," Wu's lamented, shaking his head.Â
"Way to go, hero," Cole snapped.Â
"Are you alright?" Nya asked Lord Garmadon, frowning at her brother.
"I'm fine, my dear, thank you for asking."
[M/n] followed on Lord Garmadon's heels as he led them all back up to the Bridge. The ship suddenly slowed, having arrived to its destination.Â
"Sounds like we've finally reached our destination," Cole stated.
Everyone geared up and gathered on the path to the Temple of Fire. "The Fire Temple," Cole muttered, staring up at it.
It was beautiful in a dangerous way, with the entire thing made of volcanic rock and surrounded by pools of lava that even ran down its sides.
"The volcano seems to be on the verge of eruption, guys. All recent indicators tell me that this place is becoming increasingly fragile. Even the smallest rupture can make the whole thing go off," Nya explained, using the Falcon to communicate. [M/n] placed his Golden Tessens back in their sheaths and palmed two knives instead.Â
"Then we must not use our weapons," Wu stated.
"Kai," Nya said, voice strict and sharp.
"Yeah, yeah. No Fire Sword. But only because I wouldn't want anything to prevent us from getting that Fangblade," Kai said callously, shoving his sword back into its sheath. Lord Garmadon and [M/n] growled in unison, sending shivers down his spine.
"Or my son."
From there the entire group made its way up to the entrance of the Temple where the symbol of fire had been carved above the menacing archway.Â
"There. The Serpentine must be inside the inner core. From here on out, we travel by shadows," Wu decided, spotting a branching tunnel that had not been there on their previous visit.Â
Lord Garmadon and [M/n] took the lead, with the former giving them all a viscious grin, "It's the only way I know how."Â
Creeping their way down the tunnel, they came to a stop behind a grouping of boulders that let them overlook the entirety of the spacious cavern. Pillars of stone conected by paths created an odd maze like structure over a pool if lava while stairs had been carved into the side of the room itself.Â
Jay tapped [M/n] on the shoulder, pointing to Lloyd, "There's Lloyd."
[M/n] and Lord Garmadon immediatley sought him out, finding the boy still within that bird cage and swaying precariously over the lava.Â
"Son."
"Lloyd."
Pythor, at that moment, lifted the Fangblade from its place in triumph, "The third Fangblade is ours!" He held it closer to admire its beauty and observe the carvings along its edge when he noticed something in its reflection. "Ninja? Attack!"
"Light as a leaf. Attack like there is no tomorrow," Wu ordered.
The ninja split up to fight, but [M/n] and Lord Garmadon stayed together and made their way towards Lloyd. Serpentine that faced [M/n] were killed with sharp slices to artery's and necks but Lord Garmadon's enemies were flung into the lava below, left to scream and scream until they finally burned away.Â
A sudden trenor had everyone pausing to keep their balance as the lava below bubbled loudly. [M/n] looked around, originally believing the Constrictai to be at fault, and found Kai with the Sword of Fire in hand bringing the Temple to life.Â
"Kai, the weapon is compromising your safety," Nya warned as the Falcon swooped over their heads.Â
"I will do what I must."Â
Kai went after Pythor who was attempting to flee out another tunnel. Constrictai began digging into the walls making the tremors beneath their feet worse.Â
"They're making the volcano unstable," Zane shouted, surprised by how far Pythor would go to get the Fangblade.
"Any minute, this place is gonna blow. We have to get out of here," Jay cried.
"Not without my son!"
"Not without Lloyd!"Â
Lloyd heard his Father's voice and sat up to look around, having been previously watching the other ninja in fear. "Dad!" His cage was suddenly dropped and he screamed as the pole got caught in the rocks, barely stopping him from plunging into the lava below.Â
"Son!" Lord Garmadon roared, flinging Serpentine away as he picked up the pace to reach him. [M/n] summoned KhĂȘlai, who swooped ahead in the form of a Lammergier and began tearing at the lock as they approached.Â
Ripping the lock off with his talons, KhĂȘlai pushed off so Lord Garmadon could get to his son. Sharp claws dug into the rock as he grabbed his son from the cage before he hauled them both back up onto solid ground.Â
"Dad," Lloyd sobbed, pressing his face into his dads armoured shoulder.
"Son," Garmadon whispered, pressing his forehead to his sons blond hair. Lloyd lifted his head and happened to see [M/n], standing off to the side watching him and Garmadon with open relief.Â
Garmadon was startled as his son tried to get down before he let out a strangled cry, "[M/n]!"
[M/n] froze, for barely a moment, before stepping forward and accepting Lloyd into his arms. Garmadon was surprised by the way Lloyd reached for the purple ninja, sobbing renewed, and passed him over.Â
The volcano rumbled again and they rushed back to the cave opening, meeting up with the other ninja and Sensei Wu. Kai was the only one who stayed, trying to reach the Fangblade that was balanced on a rock, slowly sinking into the lava.Â
"Leave it, Kai! It's not worth your life!" Jay shouted.
"Not without that Fangblade!"
Lloyd dropped out of [M/n]'s arms to move closer to the edge, shadowed by his protector. He remembered how Kai had shouted out to defend him in the arena and he wanted to return the favor. "But what about Kai? Kai!"
Another rumble had the ground cracking, and before either could react, the ground dropped from beneath them. The slab fell onto the lava and knocked the breath from [M/n]'s lungs but he'd caught Lloyd in time so the boy was mostly unnaffected. Â
Wheezing, he heard Zane and Garmadon screaming for them as Lloyd screamed back, "Dad! Dad! I'm sinking!"
He listened as the two were forcibly dragged away, while another tremor knocked more rocks loose and more cracks began to form. Sitting up, he was able to get a look at their surroundings.Â
The rock wall was close, barely a few feet away, so he figured he could likely climb up with Lloyd on his back so they were not stuck so close to the lava. Reaching out he grabbed onto the wall, searching for a handhold that was stable enough to take their weight.Â
The lava below bubbled. Than it popped, sending a spray across his extended left arm, hand, and neck. A few droplets hit the skin across his cheek and beside his eye, creating a sizzling sound.
At first, [M/n] froze feeling nothing but surprise for a moment before the pain began in earnest. It consumed him.Â
[M/n] screamed, a high pitched wail, pitching backwards as he curled in on himself, trying to protect his injured side. Lava ate through his skin and muscle and began trying to go through his bone, turning it black from the heat. Lloyd wailed, tears streaming down his face as hovered over the older fearfully.Â
Smoke rose from his burning body and the smell of cooked meat wafted through the air. Lloyd screamed when [M/n] promptly collapsed, unable to take the pain any longer.
"KAI!!! HELP!!!!"Â
Kai stared at them in shock, unable to register what he was seeing. He stared at the ninja who had threatened him only an hour ago, and days ago as well. But he couldn't fit the image of the entitled, arrogant ninja over this image of him injured, worse even than he had been after the Serpentine Arena.Â
Instead he remembered the ninja that would throw himself into a battle with the odds tipped so far against him for the son of their enemy. Remembered how he'd protected them all and treated them like brothers, even if he didn't always like them.Â
Looking back to the Fangblade, he knew there was only one option.Â
Abandoning the blade, he jumped across the rocks to make it to the slowly sinking platform. "Hold on, kid. We're gonna get out of here."
As carefully as he could, he slung the unconscious ninja over his shoulder, trying not to touch his burns. Unfortunately, [M/n]'s arm scraped across his red GI and he whined, a pathetic sound that had Lloyd's sobbing renewing.Â
Leaning back down, he scooped Lloyd up onto his hip as [M/n] did. He couldn't help but realize how light they both were as he jumped off the sinking platform to a â hopefully â more stable one.Â
When the piece beneath him began to shake, Kai cursed and used his Spinjitzu to get away since the next platforn was so far. Unfortunately there were only so many platforms left as the lava began to rise and spray into the air threateningly.Â
Glancing down at Lloyd â who had reach across his chest to grab onto the bottom of [M/n]'s GI â he learned something. Kai wasn't meant to be one of the Legendary Ninja, but be their protector. He let go of his ambition, and suddenly everything clicked into place.
His eyes began to glow while a pale red sphere surrounded them just as the volcano was pushed to its limit. Lloyd looked at it in awe but cried out in fear when the vilcano erupted and they were sent flying before Kai could take control. Already panting from keeping it stable, he let out a sigh of relief when he spotted the Bounty.
Hurtling towards the Bounty, Kai only slowed once he got closer but he still lost control and their landing was far from stable.Â
Kai nearly dropped Lloyd before he was nearly torn from his arms by Garmadon but his attention was on [M/n]. Laying him down, he could hear Zane and Sensei Wu asking him questions but they were just noise in his ears.Â
Zane â realizing Kai was in no state to answer questions â focused on [M/n], taking in the extensive burns as Jay and Cole nearly wretched at the sight and smell combined. "Cole, find me a stretcher. Now!"Â
Cole nodded and ran back inside, returning only a minute later with stretcher from the MedBay. Together, he and Zane carried the injured teen down to the MedBay with Kai and Nya trailing behind.Â
Getting him on the cot was difficult as it rubbed at his burns, making him moan and whine. Once he was on it, he went completely silent. Zane wanted to cry, as he searched for a pulse. When he found one, the entire room breathed again.Â
"Nya, there should be an oxygen mask. Kai will likely need it and so will Lloyd."
Cole hovered but Zane had most of it handled, until he began cleaning out the wounds in earnest and the screaming began. Cole was forced to hold him down, with tears in his eyes. From above, his screams were matched by Lloyd's own as he feared for [M/n]'s life.Â
Once the wounds were clean, Zane carefully wiped a burn salve across them, as it was all they had, and dressed then for now. He would need to return to take them off and let then air out so they could heal.Â
By the time he'd finished, everyone had made their way down to the MedBay to wait for news of the teen. Of their brother, friend, and student.Â
After letting everyone in, it took a few minutes for everyone to settle in since the room was so small. Lloyd immediately crawled into the bed, on [M/n]'s uninjured right side, and carefully sat beside him. Garmadon sat in the chair at the bedside to watch over his son and the ninja who had been so set on rescuing Lloyd over the Fangblade.Â
"How did you survive? How did you discover the key to unlocking your powers?" Zane asked quietly, busying himself with putting everything away.Â
"I knew when I had to make a choice. I wanted the Fangblade so badly, to prove I was good enough to become the Green Ninja. But then when [M/n] was injured, I figured it out. All of my training to become the best ninja wasn't in preparation to become the Green Ninja. It was . . . to protect the Green Ninja," Kai explained, glancing to Lloyd.Â
"What? What is everybody looking at me for?" Lloyd asked, shrinking back a little.
"That means . . ." Nya began, piecing everything togethor. All four pulled their Golden Weapons from their sheaths and held them before Lloyd where they were caught in a field of green and gold energy and floated in place.Â
The energy â unknown to those present â seemed to wake something within the Protector and his breathing, that had been laboured and shallow, evened as the pain lessened.Â
"Lloyd is the Green Ninja. I had thought it would be one of you, but it was him the whole time. It all makes sense. Not only have you four been chosen to protect the Golden Weapons, but also to protect the Chosen One," Wu stated, pride slipping into his voice.Â
"That means . . ." Lord Garmadon said, red eyes weary and old. Before the weapons could fall, the ninja caught them not wanting to disturb the unconscious teen.Â
"The battle lines have been drawn, brother. Sadly, our family has only become more divided. Brother versus brother, and now, son versus father." The room went silent as Garmadon watched his son who looked confused and distraught.Â
Jay cleared his throat, already partway out the door, "Hehe, this is heavy and all, but whatever happened to the Fangblade!?"Â
Everyone, reluctantly left, but they had to come up with a plan now that Pythor likely had the third Fangblade and was that much closer to releasing the Great Devourer.
Garmadon and Lloyd stayed, the former having only come to save his son and the latter too worried and scared to be seperated from his Protector.Â
The room was silent until Lloyd couldn't hold back his tears, little sniffles and whimpers breaking Garmadons heart. Leaning forward he pressed a large clawed hand to his sons back, trying to comfort him.
"Lloyd." His gentle tone seemed to be the last straw and Lloyd promptly broke down.
"It's my fault!"
Garmadon's face crumpled in shock and horror. "It is not your fault-"Â
"It is! If I hadn't been caught he wouldn't have come after me! He wouldn't have been injured! Why?!" Lloyd sobbed, confusing Garmadon who reached out with a second hand to gently stroke his white blond locks.Â
"Why what, my son?"
"Why did he come after me? Why did he get injured for me? I don't understand." The last word became a wail.
A trembling hand gently wiped away the tears, startling father and son who stared down at the ninja who barely seemed conscious. "I came because I am your protector. I came because you are mine and I am yours. I will always come for you."
Garmadon knew that Lloyd could not hear it â and if he could, he would not understand it â but he could hear it plainly. The Other that was in his blood. Lloyd though did not hear and so his sobs simply picked up as he sat there unsure if he could even embrace his protector.Â
[M/n] made the decision for him, gently guiding him onto the right side of his chest, his uninjured side.Â
"[M/n]!" Lloyd sobbed, tucking himself in the crook of his arm. Garmadon pulled himself from the chair and sat on the edge of the bed, gently stroking through boths hair to soothe them. The purple â or would it be Silver ninja know? â was crying silently, pressing his cheek onto the top of Lloyd's head as his breath hitched.Â
It was obvious to Garmadon that he was in pain and hurting â emotionally and physically â but he was focused on comforting Lloyd.
[M/n], who couldnât be left alone for fear of his concussion worsening overnight, was meditating in Wuâs room, working to keep his rage in check. Across from him, Wu was pensively observing an old, well-cared for, katana.Â
So far, the wound on his shoulder and the one on his waist had begun to heal well, his busted leg was put into a makeshift brace Nya and Jay had made, and the cuts on his temple and heel were scabbed over, leaving the open wound on his skull the most worrying wound. Since it was still a worry, he had been banned from any strenuous labor, rest being a crucial part of his recovery. Zane had decided that he would be allowed to do small things - walking around for longer periods and reading.Â
Finally [M/n] broke free of his meditation, reaching up to gently rub at his head to stave off the headache. He silently watched his Sensei, taking in the melancholy atmosphere only for it to be broken by the incoming stampede.Â
âWell, every morning I do five hundred pushups.â
âFive hundred? Ha! Try a thousand!âÂ
âThousand and one, read it and weep!âÂ
âRead it? How? You are tellingââ
âWhat this? Amateur hour? Sounds like my warm-up,â Cole laughed. âSensei, what does our True Potential look like ifââ He shut up, quickly taking in [M/n]âs glare and Wuâs melancholy nature with the katana in his hands. âUhh, Iââ
Zane pushed himself to the front, âOur apologies, Sensei. Weâve interrupted you.â
âDo not apologize. My mind has been elsewhere since Lloyd was . . .â
âKidnapped,â [M/n] filled in sharply. His eyes narrowed.Â
âYes, correct. How can I help you?âÂ
âSensei, what if we've done enough training? What if we've reached our True Potential? What if we're ready?" Cole questioned, eagerly gathering around the man. Jay nearly tripped over the cane resting at [M/n]âs side, quickly getting his feet beneath him.
Wu chuckled, âYou might be in peak physical condition, but youâve yet to find your inner potential, your inner peace. In each of you there are obstacles that hold you back, keep you from reaching your True Potential. Only when you conquer that obstacle will you unlock your True Potential. Only then will we have a fighting chance to stop the Serpentine from releasing the Great Devourer.â
âThereâs more to the Great Devourer, isnât there, Sensei?â Zane asked.
âThat would be correct. I, too, have obstacles within my own heart. Let me tell you a story, one you have not heard before. Sit.â The four settled in a half circle around their Sensei, [M/n] staying where he was. âLong ago, when I was just a young boy, Garmadon was more than just my elder brother. He was my best friend, and I, his. All our-â
âWoah, woah, woah, woah, woah! Wait a minute! Brothers, I get, but best friends? Really? You were best friends with the âKing of Crueltyâ, the âDoer of Destructionâ, the âCaptain of Chaosâ?â Jay demanded. [M/n] leaned forward, cane in hand, and smacked Jay with it - not harshly, just heavy enough to make him yelp.Â
âGarmadon was a man. Once.â
Wu chuckled, âPlease, no interruptions. [M/n] is correct, he was a man before he became what he is today. He was not always wicked or cruel. As a young boy, he was my protector, my closest friend and confidant. It was the day I lost this Katana that things changed. We were sparing together, and when he knocked it from my hands it flew over the Monastery walls. I knew my father would be angry, so I refused to leave to retrieve it in the hopes that it would go unnoticed. Garmadon . . . Garmadon retrieved it for me. Though not before trying to convince me to do it myself. He was the one that told me âDo not put off what can be done todayâ.â
His chuckle was far sadder.Â
âGarmadon slipped out the front doors and went to retrieve my katana. But he did not return. When the sun began to set, I finally told my father and he went to find him. When he found him my brother was . . . he was very ill. I did not know it at the time but he had been bitten by a newly hatched snake that would never stop growing-â
âHence the name the Great Devourer,â Zane realized, only for his eyes to go wide. âApologies, Sensei.âÂ
Wu waved it off, âA great evil had found its way into my brother, who had been so kind once upon a time. My father told me that no matter how pure something was, that snakeâs venom could corrupt it, twist its form until they were unrecognizable. And while it took years for the venom to consume him, eventually it did, turning him into the man you five know.â
The lines of Wuâs face were filled with grief, making it obvious that the man still blamed himself. He closed his eyes, finishing the story, âThat snake is the same one the Serpentine wish to awaken and free now. The same snake that took my brother from me.â His eyes flashed gold, but his anger died quickly.Â
âSo, it was this Great Devourer that turned your brother evil? Turned him into the Dark Lord?â
âIt was all my fault,â Wu murmured, eyes closing. âYou four have finished your training, and now you must focus on stopping Pythor from gathering the Fangblades. Never lose focus of the obstacles within your own heart that holds you back from achieving greatness. Unlock your True Potential.â
He stood, reaching for his staff.Â
âSensei? How are we to do that? And why does it sound like you are planning to make us follow this path alone?â
âNot alone. You will have your brothers, and Nya, to help you. But these obstacles are ones you must discover. And the journey I must go on is more personal in nature. One that I will need [M/n]âs help for.â At his name, [M/n] began to stand, pausing for a moment when Cole offered a hand to help him stand the rest of the way. Zane passed him his cane, making sure he had a good grip on it.Â
âWhere are you going?â Jayâs anxiety had been at an all time high for the past few days, leaving his fingers wrapped loosely in bandages.
âTo a place you cannot follow.â
âOuroborous? That city is filled with-with centinaia of snakes, and-and [M/n] nearly died facing them. If he canât do it alone, then, Sensei, neither can you.â (hundreds)
âAnd heâs still injured!â Jay added, voice pitching up. Hesitantly [M/n] stepped forward, resting a hand on Jayâs shoulder.Â
âWeâre going to find someone who can be of aid. The Serpentine have united and only grown stronger in doing so. We will need all the help we can get. Pack your bags, [M/n], for at least five days. I do not know how long we will be gone for.âÂ
Zane and Cole helped [M/n] their room, watching over him as he packed. They were practically on top of him, anxious to see him go.
âI do not know why Sensei is bringing you along-â
âSensei has a plan. Whoever we are finding might need proof or convincing. Wu is Lloydâs uncle but Lloyd . . . he is mine.â There was something possessive in his voice. âI need to go with him. To make sure they come back with us.â
âWe understand,â Cole murmured. [M/n] zipped up the bag, but when he went to swing it over his shoulder, Cole took it from him. When [M/n] gave him a look, he just shrugged, âLet me do this for you. Who knows how far you're going to have to walk.â
âFine.â [M/n] let them walk him up to the deck, to the gangplank. Everyone was silent as Nya lowered them down next to the Mountain of Impossible Height, where Wu had directed her. Wu calmly reached over and took [M/n]âs bag from Cole, easily carrying it and his own bag. Zane hesitantly pulled [M/n] into a hug, the other embracing him in turn. âI will see you again.â
âWe will keep an eye out for your return.â
Wu and [M/n] crossed the gangplank, watching for a moment as the others waved, Bounty pulling away. âCome, [M/n]. We have quite a ways to walk.â Taking a deep breath, [M/n] followed behind him. It was a struggle, the path they took old and worn, loose rocks getting caught beneath the cane and his boots.Â
By the time they made it down to the city, hidden by the base of the mountain, the sun had begun to set and [M/n] was covered in sweat, soaked to the bone. Wu quietly reached over, resting a hand on his shoulder, âNot much further.â
[M/n] only nodded once. Wu continued, leading them down the main street, turning down a side street only a little ways down the street. Already there were Nuckal and Kruncha, who both panicked at the sight.Â
âAah, retreat!â Their fearful retreat was ignored, [M/n] paying more attention to the shop at the end of the street. âMystakeâs Tea Shopâ.Â
He hid a groan, a little annoyed at their destination. Heâd been checked out by Mystake, when heâd first woken up and the woman had been very . . . irritating, for lack of a better term. Pushy, as well. And mysterious. Like she knew more than he did, about himself.Â
Sighing, he made his way to the shop's entrance, bell ringing as Wu helped him inside. Panting slightly, [M/n] leaned back against the wall, eyes closing for a moment.Â
Mystake emerged from the back, face pinching when she saw who had entered her shop.Â
âI would like to purchase a pot of Travelers Tea. And a cup of Healers Brew,â Wu requested, approaching the counter.Â
âNever heard of it!â Mystake snapped, eyes narrowing. Her grey eyed gaze was deeply unsettling, the hairs on [M/n]âs arms raising when they flicked towards him. Wu, seemingly unaffected, dropped a pouch of coins onto the counter. Scowling fiercely, she reluctantly turned away to head back towards the storage, bringing out two differently sized bags.Â
Oddly enough she only handed over the larger pouch, the Travelerâs Tea, keeping the smaller for herself. She set an old dingy teapot on a small, portable stove she kept behind the counter, filling it with water. When Mystake found their eyes on her, she glared. âHe looks like heâs about to keel over. Heâll drink a cup here. But! Youâll save that tea for when youâre farther away! I wonât have you using it in my shop!â
âI understand,â Wu agreed, dipping his head.Â
It was obvious he respected her, even though he was older.Â
Instead of pouring the brew into a cup, she pulled out an old dented thermos. Pushing it across the counter, [M/n] reluctantly crossed the room to take it. She stared him down when he just held the thermos, sighing when he realized she wasnât going to let him leave until he drank it. Throwing the brew back, he drank it as quickly as he could, ignoring the bitter herbal taste.Â
Wu turned, leaving quickly as [M/n] struggled to keep up. Realizing his students' slow pace, Wu did the same, sighing softly. Â
âPlease tell me she creeps you out too,â [M/n] grumbled, pushing himself to go faster.Â
âShe does not âcreep me outâ, but she can be a little offputting,â Wu agreed. âDo you think you can make it back to the mountain? We do not have to climb it, not if you cannot.â
âI can make it. Halfway, at least.âÂ
As he followed his teacher, [M/n] felt a strange tingling across his head, leg, shoulder, ankle, and waist, all places where he was injured. Glancing down at his leg, he didnât see anything odd happening so he continued on. Eventually though he came to a stop, forced too as the sensation mounted.Â
â΀Îč ÏÎż-â (What the-)
âIs everything alright, [M/n]?âÂ
âItâs- all my wounds- they feel . . .â [M/n] grunted, rubbing at his shoulder, the wound he had the most access to. âIs it the brew?â
âI believe it is. We can rest here. Sit, while I brew the Travelers Tea.âÂ
[M/n] nodded slowly, sitting on a nearby rock as Wu began to gather sticks for a fire. Stretching out his leg, he rubbed at his knee, trying to ignore the feeling.Â
âÎαΌÏ!âÂ
âLanguage.â
[M/n] glared, âMahĆngo.â
Wu sighed, hiding a fond smile as he lit the fire. âDoes it hurt?âÂ
âNo, not-not really. But it is . . . Weird. Iâve never felt anything like it. Itâs like my skin is crawling,â [M/n] tried to explain, rolling back his shoulders as the sensation mounted. For nearly a half hour [M/n] cussed up a storm, twisting and turning to try and alleviate the itchiness without scratching.Â
Finally it stopped, [M/n] nearly slumping in relief. Tentatively he reached up to feel the cut across his temple, finding nothing but the smooth raised skin of a scar.Â
âDeparted Realm, it worked.â He sought out the bandages wrapped around his head to protect the still open wound on his skull, finding healed skin beneath. Standing slowly, he found his knee no longer creaked or cracked painfully, so he pulled off the brace. Checking each wound, he found them all healed, only scars in their places.Â
Wu pouring the Tea over the fire pulled his attention away from his miracle, watching as the flames danced silver and purple, the essence swelling. For just a moment the world tipped, unbalanced.Â
âWe must hurry,â Wu declared, grabbing his bag. Moving quickly, [M/n] grabbed his own, discarding the brace and cane, unwilling to be tied down wherever they were going.Â
Together they leaped into the portal, landing on the other side in a realm that was far darker than their own, with very little light shining on them. They seemed to have stepped out onto a jutting rock formation, but that wasnât the focus of their attention. Rather the figure standing at the end was.
Lord Garmadon stood with his arms folded behind his back, red eyes glowing in the low light, âHello, brother. What took you so long? I see you brought the katana from our youth. Funny, you never had the courage to cross the temple walls, yet now you have the courage to come here. And I see youâve brought along your little prodigy.â
âWhy have you come to this place of darkness?â Wu held out an arm, blocking [M/n] from advancing.Â
âIt is a place as wicked as me. Donât you see? Here, I feel at home. In Ninjago I was physically unable to hold the four Golden Weapons that our father once used to create Ninjago. But here, dark magic has made me stronger and what was once impossible is now possible.â With a sharp smile, Lord Garmadon revealed a second set of arms beneath his first. Wu gasped, unable to hide his shock. [M/n]âs eyes went wide.
âYou came here only to possess the Weapons?â
âWhat of your son?âÂ
Garmadon snarled in answer, âYou know nothing! I refuse to let you, your petty ninja, or your prodigy stop me!â
Abandoning all pretenses, Lord Garmadon pulled four blades from the sheaths on his back, lunging. Wu and [M/n] were quickly forced onto the defensive, dancing around each other in defense, unused to fighting an enemy with four arms.Â
Using that to his advantage, he managed to fling both of them off the rock, down into the mud below.Â
âBrother, Iâve not come here toââ Wu was cut off, the swipe of Garmadonâs sword barely missing his face.Â
âYou will pay for your visit. Mud Monsters, converge!â Garmadon laughed, watching as the mud monsters surged upwards. âYou donât belong here, you old fool. You should have known better than to try and stop me.âÂ
[M/n] clawed at the mud, trying to find something to hold onto so that he could drag himself out. When his fingers only found mud, he yelled out, a last desperate chance at escaping, âLloydâs in danger!â Garmadon paused, frozen as the mud monsters dragged the two into their grasp.Â
âLloyd?â When it registered, he was quick to free the two, pulling them both out with ease, before forcibly dismissing the Mud Monsters. âWhat has Lloyd gotten himself into?â
[M/n] spat up mud, doing his best to wipe some of it from his GI.
âHe has opened a can of worms I fear I will never be able to close,â Wu admitted, kneeling on the ground to catch his breath.
âYou mean we will never be able to close,â Garmadon corrected, glancing at the sky. âGet up. You can tell me more on the way. First, we need to return home. How did you find me?â
âTravelers Tea. But we used it all, so now we have no way back,â Wu explained.Â
âThere is a way to return to Ninjago, but to get there we must pass through the Mountain of Madness. A dangerous road, and long,â Garmadon stated, glancing back at them. [M/n] nodded, willing to do anything if it meant getting Lloyd back.Â
âI wouldnât have it any other way.â
âCan we leave?âÂ
Garmadon raised a brow, âLeaving now would be good. Before it gets truly dark.â He directed them towards the looming mountains in the distance, identifying them as the Mountains of Madness. As Wu and Garmadon walked side by side, [M/n] fell back, unable to keep himself from being twitchy.Â
âSo what kind of trouble has Lloyd gotten himself into?â
âHe released the Serpentine,â [M/n] answered bluntly. âThe last member of the Anacondrai has taken it upon himself to unite the four other Tribes. He plans to use them to find the four Fangblades, to wake the Great Devourer.â
âGreat Devourer? The one that bit me?â Lord Garmadon asked, shocked. âNo, it canât be. This Anacondrai must be a fool for thinking to release that snake.â
âIt is true, brother. Unfortunately.â
âWhy would Lloyd open the tombs?â
âHe just wanted to be like you,â [M/n] said, unable to help the sadness coloring his tone. Lord Garmadon was just as saddened, eyes closing for a moment.
âI never wanted him to be like me,â Garmadon admitted. He hesitated for a long moment, âThank you . . . for watching over my son. Both of you.â
âYou may think of me as an enemy, but I was your brother first.â
[M/n] grunted, âNo thanks needed.â
Lord Garmadon nodded, allowing silence to fall as he led them along the path to the middle. For a good hour they walked in silence, easily trekking three miles in that time. Wu eyed the mountain apprehensively, blue eyes finding the ominous purple-black rocky face intimidating.Â
âWeâre here. The Mountain of Madness.â
âThis is the only way back to Ninjago?â
âUp at the peak,â Garmadon confirmed. âBut the worst is yet to come.â
[M/n] rolled his eyes, muttering aloud, âÎÏαΌαÏÎčÎșÏÏ.â (Dramatic.)
Lord Garmadon let out a sharp, bark-like laugh, âÎ ÏÎÏΔÎč Μα ÏÎÎČΔÏαÎč ÏÎżÏ Ï ÎŒÎ”ÎłÎ±Î»ÏÏΔÏÎżÏÏ ÏÎżÏ .â (You should respect your elders.)
A flicker of surprise, but [M/n] was quick to shove it down, âΠΔÏÎčÏÏÏÏΔÏÎż ÏαΜ αÏολÎčΞÏΌαÏα.â This only seemed to further delight Lord Garmadon, leaving Wu as the odd man out. (More like fossils.)
Wu had spent considerable time trying to teach his student to show others respect, but his sharp tongue was not to be held back.Â
As they trekked up the mountain, the moon slowly rose up behind them, casting the world in an eerie blue-purple glow, unlike the cool silver-blue of Ninjagoâs moon. Lord Garmadon came to a sharp stop, looking to the moon with a frown, âI had hoped to reach the summit before the moon had risen. The Craglings never miss a midnight snack.â
âCraglings?â [M/n] tensed further, as if that was really possible, hands curling around the handles of the Golden Tessens.Â
âCraglings? What is this place, brother? There is no such thing in Ninjago.âÂ
âTheyâre as if the ground beneath us rose and took the form of a horde, unlike anything youâve ever seen before,â Lord Garmadon explained, glancing back. âNot all places exist to be found, brother. Sometimes one must revel in the shadows to truly see the light.âÂ
He looked away, not seeing the way his brother looked at him - gleaming eyes filled with hope.Â
[M/n] watched him, curious but wary. He didnât know much about Lord Garmadon but that sounded suspiciously . . . Hopeful. No, that wasnât the right word.Â
The ground ahead of them rumbled, the boulders surrounding the trail they were on revealing themselves to be the Craglings Garmadon had spoken of. All three were caught off guard - even Garmadon. [M/n] threw himself to the side, going the opposite direction of Wu and Garmadon, easily rolling out of the way.Â
âWatch out, Wu!â Garmadon yelled, summoning a ball of Destruction before blasting the Cragling coming up behind his younger brother.Â
Seeing how easily Garmadonâs Element destroyed the Craglings, [M/n] unsheathed his Tessens, Nether curling along the exposed blades with the click of a button. With only a moment of hesitation - due to his worry about the blades holding up against the rocky skin - he attacked the closest Cragling, going after its legs. Unexpectedly, the blades sank into the rock with only the slightest bit of resistance.Â
Backing off, [M/n] watched as its legs, beneath the knee, separated from the rest of it, leaving the actual body to tumble off the side of the mountain. A scan of the area showed him the other broken bodies, the rest of the Craglings that Wu and Garmadon had taken care of.
Garmadon sent him a look, amusement with something a little deeper, â Seems to me your student has gotten a little slow.â
[M/n] frowned, Wu giving his brother a reprimanding look.Â
âYou have only seen me fight once,â [M/n] pointed out sharply, eyes narrowing. He couldnât help the indignation he felt, proud of his skills as he was. âAnd I have never faced off against Craglings.â
Garmadon stared at him, head tilting slightly.Â
âThe path to Ninjago is just up ahead. If we hurry, I believe we can make it within the hour.â
The man turned, quickly setting off, leaving the two to hurry after him. Before Wu could catch up with his brother, [M/n] quietly spoke to him, âWhat was that about? Did he meet me before I was in my coma?â
Wu hesitated, âNo. He was trapped in the Underworld during your coma. But perhaps he watched you train in his shadow form.â He then lengthened his stride to catch up with his taller brother, leaving [M/n] to watch their backs suspiciously.Â
[M/n] didnât exactly appreciate being kept in the dark, but it wasnât as if he could prove either of them were lying and he did trust his Sensei. Even if they didnât always agree.
The entire walk up to the mountaintop was spent in silence. [M/n] felt the power coming from this portal between worlds within minutes of starting their walk, curiously focusing on the strange ebb and wane of its power.Â
âThe vortex back to Ninjago is just over that buff,â Garmadon said, gesturing to it. âYou first. I have better luck against the Craglings.â
Wu smiled, âThough we may live in two different worlds now, I still see good in your heart, brother. Come, [M/n].â He was reluctantly followed up the last bit, having to actually climb it. [M/n] felt the hairs across his neck rise as Garmadon followed him, disliking the presence of Lord Garmadon at his back.Â
Over the ridge, [M/n] couldnât help the way he was drawn to the edge, staring down into the portal in unrestrained awe. It roiled and twisted across his senses. Coming up behind them, Garmadon grinned at their distraction.
âThe battle between our worlds is inevitable. You put too much trust in me, little brother.â
Before either could register what heâd said, Garmadon shoved them both towards the portal, making them wonder if it was even a portal to Ninjago. Wu managed to catch himself on a jutting ledge, just a few feet beneath the ridge, barely managing to catch his student in time.Â
âBut we came to you for help saving your son!â Wu shouted, interrupting his student. âDid you lead me here only to destroy me?!â
âSee you on the other side.â Garmadon destroyed the ledge with his Destruction, the two dropping through the portal. Alarmed, [M/n] twisted, ignoring the voice whispering at the edge of his senses.Â
Twisting, [M/n] and Wu were spat out above a rice field, managing to land on their feet, though they both stumbled. Wu wheezed, caught off guard and feeling a little betrayed until he looked around and realized they were near Kaiâs old blacksmith shop.Â
Lord Garmadon suddenly appeared, easily landing on his feet with a deep booming laugh, throwing his head back with delight, âIâm back, Ninjago!â
The surrounding farmers fled at the sight, yelling out in fear. [M/n] glared at the man, standing and doing his best to squeeze out his pants and the edges of his GI top.Â
âMust you be so dramatic?â Wu demanded, eyes narrowed slightly and a bit of irritation seeping into his voice.Â
Garmadon looked to his brother, still grinning widely, âIt is in my nature.â
[M/n] nearly hissed like a feral cat. âDo not include me in your dramatics. I may forget myself and take out an eye.â
â[M/n]-â
âSpiteful,â Garmadon hummed. âI would have thought you less likely to attack your chances of retrieving my son.â
âThat is the only reason I have not taken out your eye already.â
âEnough. We must find the Bounty. Weâll have to find a different town to visit, see if anyone has seen it recently.â
âVery well.â
[M/n] huffed, turning to head in the direction of the nearby village just past Ignacia.
[M/n], who still couldn't be left alone because of his concussion even after two weeks, was leaning back against the wall and watching as Wu studied an old, well kept, katana pensievely.
Most of his shallower wounds had healed and were little more than scabs, but the massive head wound still worried Zane so he had been banned from anything strenous. He wasn't even allowed to summon KhĂȘlai, in case he exhausted himself further.
Glancing over to the door, he could hear the ninja making their way towards Wu's room. "Well, every morning I do five hundred push-ups."
"Five hundred? Ha, try a thousand."
"Hahaha, I do a thousand and one."
"What is this, amateur hour? Sounds like my warm-up. Sensei, what does True Potential look like if--" Cole began, pushing open the mans door without asking for permission.
"Our apologies, Sensei. We've interrupted you," Zane interrupted, coming to a sharp stop at the sight of his Sensei.Â
"I'm sorry if I've been distant lately. My mind has been elsewhere since Lloyd has gone missing. What can I help you with?" Wu asked, smiling weakly.Â
"Sensei, what if we've done enough training? What if we've reached our True Potential? What if we're ready?" Cole questioned, eagerly gathering around the man. Jay nearly tripped over [M/n]'s outstretched legs, but quickly recovered.
"Hm. You might have reached peak physical condition, but you've yet to reach your inner potential. In each and every one of us, there are obstacles that hold us back. Only when you conquer that fear will your heart be free. Only then will you reach your True Potential. Only then will we have a fighting chance to stop the Serpentine from releasing the Great Devourer," Wu explained, stroking his beard.
"There's more to the Great Devourer than you've let on, isn't there, Sensei?" Zane asked, noticing the change in Wu's voice.
"I too have obstacles within my own heart. There's a story I've never told you," Wu admitted, gesturing for them all to settle in. He placed a pillow in the center of the half moon circle the five created to sit on and began. "Long ago, when I was a young boy, Garmadon and I were more than brothers. We were the best of friends-"
"Wait a minute. Now, I know you two were brothers, but really? The King of Cruelty, the Doer of Destruction, the Captain of Chaos, and you two were friends?" Jay interupted, bewildered.Â
"Please, no interruptions," Wu stated, just as [M/n] leaned forward and whacked Jay upside the head, having needed a moment to move his stiff limbs. "You see, he did not always have a wicked heart. One day, I lost this very katana. Knowing our father would be mad, my brother told me to go retrieve it. But I refused. He told me not to put off what can be done today and went to get it himself. When my father found him, he was very ill, for he was bitten by a legendary snake that would grow forever as long as it consumes. A great evil had found its way into my brother's heart, for the snake's venom could turn the purest of things wicked."
Wu's face was grave and sad. It was obvious to the five that the man still blamed himself for it, even so many years later.Â
Closing his eyes, Wu paused, taking a steadying breath, "The snake is the same one the Serpentine want to reawaken today. It is the snake that took my brother away from me."Â
His eyes grew sharp, gold flashing beneath the blue, a reminder of his strength.Â
"So the Great Devourer turned your brother into the Dark Lord?" Kai asked, frowning.Â
"It was all my fault. You four have finished your training. You must now focus on stopping Pythor from collecting the Fangblades. But never lose focus on the obstacles that lie within each of your hearts that holds you back from true greatness. Unlock your True Potential," Wu stated, standing tall.Â
"But how are we supposed to do that, Sensei?" Zane asked.
"It is up to each of you to discover. Now I must go on a personal journey of my own. And I will need [M/n]'s help." Wu said, glancing to the ninja who had begun standing at his name. Cole was quick to support him, grabbing his crutches for him.
"Where are you going?" Jay asked, shifting anxiously. His anxiety had been at an all time high recently and his fingers were covered in bandages from his bad habits and tinkering.Â
"To a place you cannot follow."
"If you're going for Lloyd, the City of Ouroboros is filled with hundreds of Serpentine. [M/n] tried and nearly died. If he couldn't do it alone then you can't either Sensei," Cole stated, frowning.
"We are going to find someone who can be of aid. The Serpentine have united and grown stronger and we will need all the help we can get."Â
Zane and Cole both helped escort [M/n] up to the Bounty's deck, while Jay went back to their room with a list of supplies to pack for him. He'd tried to make them leave him be but they'd insisted, and had been practically on top of him as he climbed up the stairs.
Nya lowered the Bounty so it was beside the mountain above the village they needed to go to. Wu took both bags, and crossed the plank first before helping [M/n] over. Pulling away, they waved goodbye then began their trek down the side of the mountain.
The sun had already begun to set by the time they made it to the village nestled in the shadow of the mountain due to [M/n]'s injuries. Tucked away into the backstreets was the shop Wu had said they'd needed to visit.
Already in the alley leading to the shop were Nuckal and Kruncha, who panicked at the sight of the two, "Aah, Retreat!" Their fearful retreat was ignored as [M/n] observed the dingy little shop, 'Mystake's Tea Shop.'
Wu helped [M/n] inside, and he leaned back against the wall to relax for a moment. An old woman emerged from the back, face pinching when she saw the two.
"I would like to purchase some Traveler's Tea. As well as Healers Brew."
"Never heard of it!" Mystake snapped, scowling. Wu dropped a pouch full of coins on the counter and the woman reluctantly went back into her storage and brought the teas back out. She had a kettle out that she used to begin brewing the Healers Brew as she counted out the coin. Pouring it into a cup she slid it over alongside the Travelers tea. "He looks like he needs it or else he'll keel over."
Wu took the cup to [M/n] who hesitantly held it up to smell.
"You know, those who drink this never return."
"Then we will not bother you again."
They left and [M/n] finally took a sip as they made it to the base of the mountain. Wu did not wish to stay within the village for this.Â
[M/n] nearly tripped when he first felt the sensation crawling along his skin, crutches catching on a loose rock. His skin was stitching itself back together and the back of his skull, the bone, was repairing itself making his skin feel incredibly itchy and odd.Â
By the time they found a place to pause, about halfway up the mountain, he felt better than before. Reaching up, he found the area where the head wound had been but felt only the raised skin of a scar.Â
Wu started a fire, preparing the Travelers Tea. Silence reigned as they prepared themselves. Standing, he took the tea pot off the fire and poured it over the flames, turning them a vibrant purple.Â
[M/n] felt the portal open in his bones as he watched. Together they stepped through, stepping out onto a rocky ledge with very little light, as if they were in a cave rather than outside.Â
Across from them stood Lord Garmadon, silver fangs glinting in the light as his red eyes burned. "Hello, brother. What took you so long? You brought the katana from our youth. Funny, you never had the courage to cross the temple wall, yet now you have the courage to come here. And you even brought your prodigy along."
"Why have you come to this place of darkness?" Wu asked, holding out a hand to keep [M/n] from advancing.
"A place as wicked as me? Don't you see? Here I feel at home. In Ninjago, I was physically unable to hold all four Spinjitzu Weapons. But here, dark magic has made me stronger and what was once impossible is now possible," Lord Garmadon hissed, revealing a second set of arms. Wu gasped as [M/n]'s eyes widened a little, surprised.
"You came here only to possess the Weapons of Spinjitzu?"
"What of your son?" [M/n] demanded, hitting the man where it hurt. Garmadon snarled, a terrifying sound.
"You know nothing! I refuse to let you, your petty ninja, or your prodigy stop me!" Lord Garmadon shouted, abandoning all pretense. Summoning four weapons to his hands, he lunged at them.
[M/n] and Wu were forced on the defensive, dancing around each other as Lord Garmadon slashed, his reach different than they were used to. One after the other, he tossed them into the mud below, dropping down with a feral grin.
"Brother, I've not come here toâ" Wu tried to explain, only to be cut off by a swipe from Lord Garmadons sword that barely missed its target.
"You will pay for your visit. Mud monsters, converge! You don't belong here, old fool. You should've known better than to try to stop me," Garmadon snarled, mud monsters grabbing onto their pants and beginning to cover them.
"Lloyd is in danger!" [M/n] shouted, struggling furiously trying to free his legs from the mud monster. Shocked, Lord Garmadon didn't react immediately so the monsters nearly swallowed them both whole.Â
"Lloyd?" Realizing they were about be drowned, he pulled them free, sending the mud monsters back into the ground now that he now longer had any need of them. "What has Lloyd gotten himself into?"
"Danger."
"He has opened a can of worms I fear I will never be able to close," Wu admitted, kneeling on the ground to catch his breath.
"You mean we will never be able to close. Get up. You can tell me more later. First, we need to return home. How did you find me?"
[M/n] pulled himself back to his feet, hating the twinge of his muscles from the lack of movement for so long.
"Traveler's Tea. But we used it all and now have no way back," Wu explained, standing.
"There is only one way to return to Ninjago. But to get there, we must pass through the Mountain of Madness and it is a long and dangerous road ahead," Lord Garmadon stated. [M/n] nodded willing to do anything to get back to Lloyd and save him.Â
"I wouldn't have it any other way."
"We should leave. Now," [M/n] insisted, wanting to get back as soon as possible.Â
"We should. Before it gets really dark," Lord Garmadon agreed.
Lord Garmadon directed them towards the looming Mountain of Madness several miles away. [M/n] chose to walk behind the two, hands on his Tessens as his senses were rubbed raw by this realm.Â
"So what kind of trouble has Lloyd gotten himself into?" Lord Garmadon asked, frowning.
"He released the Serpentine," [M/n] answered. "The last member of the Anacondrai Tribe has brought the four Tribes together. He plans to gather the four Fangblades and use them to bring back the Great Devourer. The same that bit you."
"The same that bit me?" Lord Garmadon repeated, shocked. "No, it can't be."
"It's true," Wu stated.
"Why would Lloyd open the tombs?"
"He just wanted to be like you," [M/n] murmured, glancing to Lord Garmadon who seemed saddened by his answer.
"I never wanted him to be like me. Thank you for watching out for him, [M/n]. Wu."
"You may think of me as your enemy, but I was first your brother."
Lord Garmadon nodded and they continued their journey towards the mountain in silence. At the pace they walked, the three mile trek took just under an hour.Â
Wu eyed the mountain apprehensively. "We're here. The Mountain of Madness."
"The only way back to Ninjago is up there?" Wu questioned, frowning.Â
"The worst is yet to come," Garmadon revealed ominously. KhĂȘlai wrapped around his legs as a bobcat, looking up at [M/n] in amusement.
"ÎÎŻÎœÎ±Îč λίγο ÎŽÏαΌαÏÎčÎșÏÏ, ÎÏÏÎč ΎΔΜ Î”ÎŻÎœÎ±Îč?" [M/n] mumbled to KhĂȘlai, who bobbed his head in agreement. (He's a bit dramatic, isn't he?)Â
In front of them, Lord Garmadon chuckled looking back at them, "Î ÏÎÏΔÎč Μα ÏÎÎČΔÏαÎč ÏÎżÏ Ï ÎŒÎ”ÎłÎ±Î»ÏÏΔÏÎżÏ Ï ÏÎżÏ ." (You should respect your elders.)Â
[M/n] was a little surprised, but wasn't afraid to snark back, "ΠΔÏÎčÏÏÏÏΔÏÎż ÏαΜ αÏολÎčΞÏΌαÏα." (More like fossils.)
Lord Garmadon laughed, delighted by his snark, while Wu sighed. He had tried to teach his student better and not be so crass or rude but . . .
Those lessons had never stuck.
As they trekked up the mountain, the moon rose catching Lord Garmadon's attention. He came to a sharp halt, frowning, "I had hoped to reach the summit before the moon has risen. The Craglings never miss a midnight snack."
"Craglings?" [M/n] asked, frowning. KhĂȘlai pressed himself against his leg, baring his teeth silently.Â
"Craglings? What is this place? There's no such thing in Ninjago," Wu stated, shaking his head as his grip on his staff tightened.
"They're a horde unlike any you've seen. Not all places exist to be found, brother. Sometimes, one must revel in the shadows to truly see the light," Garmadon said, eyes glowing.Â
The ground trembled as the pile of rocks around them began to move, forming large, hulking creatures. Wu, surprised by their sudden appearance, was quickly caught off guard and flung to the side as [M/n] and KhĂȘlai split up to take on two Craglings alone.Â
"Watch out brother!" Lord Garmadon shouted, blasting the Cragling with destruction, eating away at its rocky skin until it was nothing but dust.
[M/n] and KhĂȘlai worked together to create cracks along the Craglings skin so he could use his Nether to eat through it further. Specifically, they went after the legs until it could no longer hold itself up and fell of the cliff.Â
Against the second one, they led taunted it until it was close enough to the edge that they could knock it off the side and let it fall to its death.Â
"Ninja go!"Â
A second group descended upon them and they were forced to fight their way through. Eventually, the rest of the horde had either retreated or been destroyed so the three stood in a pile of rubble and dust.Â
"The vortex is not much farther ahead. If we hurry, we can make it within the hour," Lord Garmadon stated, setting a quick pace for them to match.
KhĂȘlai eventually grew bored and retreated back into the ChĂłropsych for a nap.Â
"The vortex back to Ninjago is just over that buff. Please, you first." He gestured for the two of them to begin their climb.Â
"Though we live in two different worlds, I still see good in your heart, brother," Wu stated, smiling. "Come, [M/n]."
Climbing up over the ridge they found the vortex, swirling with purple and black energy. [M/n] stared into the vortex, nearly overwhelmed by the feeling of its power, all of his senses focused on it.Â
Coming up behind them, Lord Garmadon grinned noting their distraction. "The battle between our worlds is inevitable. You put too much trust in me."
Wasting no time he shoves them both, but Wu manages to grab onto a ledge jutting out just above the vortex, barely managing to grab onto his students hand in time.
"ÎÏÏ ÏÏοΎÏÏη! Î ÎłÎčÎżÏ ÏαÏ-!" (You traitor! Your sonâ!)
"But I came for your help to save your son!" Wu shouted, interupting his furious student. "Did you lead me here to destroy me?!"
"See you on the other side," Lord Garmadon hissed, using his element to break the ledge. Wu cried out in fear as they fell, heart breaking at the betrayal.Â
[M/n] felt as the vortex changed around him, and twisted to land on his feet. He managed to catch himself but dropped to a knee at the suddeness of the landing. Wu fell onto his back, wheezing slightly but he'd recover quickly.Â
Glancing around, [M/n] realized they were in a rice patty field filled with farmers who were eyeing them wearily.Â
Lord Garmadon dropped from the vortex before it closed behind him. Landing on his feet, he threw back his head and laughed, "I'm back, Ninjago!"Â
The farmers, seeing the Dark Lord, fled back towards their homes. [M/n] glared at the mans bacl, knowing he couldn't attack without squandering their chances of getting Lloyd back.Â
The man might be an asshole but he loved his son and would kill to rescue him if need be.
Wu was simply relieved that the man hadn't actually been trying to kill them, and was quick to let it go so they could focus on the next part of their journey. Finding the Bounty.
Sat around the dining table, the ninja had been sharing ideas about how to keep Pythor from uniting the Tribes, having spent the past few days since his last attempt disrupting the gatherings of the Serpentine. When Lloyd eventually joined them the conversation turned to his plot of revenge on the Serpentine, much to the group's amusement.
âFirst, Iâll stomp on his tail. Then when he turns, a thunderclap to his ears. And when heâs stunned, Iâll disarm him!â Lloyd declared, slapping his hands on the table. Wu gave the boy a warning look, but it was the flick to his ear from [M/n] that had him apologizing. âSorry, Uncle.â
âToo late, hypnotized and under his control.â
âOr heâs already put you in a squeeze.â
âOr spit on you with his hallucinatory venom. Trust me, bad stuff.â Kai dramatically shuddered, making Lloyd snicker.
âSo then what is the best way to defeat a Serpentine if you donât know what Tribe theyâre from? Uncle?â
âWithout identifying them? It would have been the Sacred Flute you five so carelessly lost.â
[M/n] scoffed, âIf you learn to identify the tribe then you can find the best way to defeat them. Scale color, head shape, there are multiple ways to tell them apart. It is not difficult once you learn.â
âWe didnât lose the flute anyways. Pythor stole it! What were we supposed to do?! Fight off an army of Venomari!â
Nya snickered, leaning over to whisper to [M/n], âNot much of an army.â
Wu sighed, âWhatever the case, without it I fear there is no true way to defeat them all at once. It seems you will have to rely on [M/n] to identify the tribe so you may fight them off. I fear Pythor will only continue trying to unite the Tribes, and they will only continue to grow stronger the longer they have.â
âDonât worry Sensei, Iâve almost reached my full potential, and when I become the Green Ninja, weâre not gonna need any magic flute,â Cole said, flexing.Â
[M/n] let out a long sigh, pressing his first two fingers to his forehead as yet another argument started. Lloyd tugged on the bottom of [M/n]âs shirt, âWhatâs the Green Ninja?â
The older stared down at Lloyd, expression inscrutable. âNothing you need to worry about.â Dropping a hand on Lloydâs head he easily pushed it down, making him laugh. âThe only thing you need to worry about is not growing up to be an idiot like the rest of them.â
âIâm gonna be way cooler than any of them!âÂ
âGood.â
Lloyd playfully tried to swat [M/n]âs hand away, leaning away from the older, which let him realize that Wu was carrying a box of something. âOooh! Whatâs in the box?!â
âThe ninjaâs new uniforms,â Wu answered, opening the box to pass out five smaller boxes. This had the ninja abandoning their argument, reaching to snatch the packages from Wu.Â
[M/n] took his with care, chuckling at Lloydâs excitement. âYou can open it.â
âYes!â Lloyd tore into the package, gasping when he pulled the armor pieces free. âWoah!âÂ
The piece that had gotten such an excited exclamation was a raven head pauldron made from iron that was perfectly molded to fit over his arm and bicep. When [M/n] investigated it, he found that the head itself was on hinges, which would allow for the movement he was used too. Beneath the other armor pieces - a leather cuirass, matching leather cuisse, and leather belt with holsters - was the GI itself. It was a grey-purple, silky and breathable, with a silver crown on the hood.Â
âWhoa! They've got, like, armor!â Jay whooped, showing off an armored sleeve.Â
âMineâs got golden highlights,â Kai said, holding up his hood with the golden âcrownâ.Â
âGuanti corazzati!â Cole cheered, pulling on the gloves that had iron plates on the backs. (Armored gloves)
âThe material is really light and breathable," Zane murmured, running his hand over the fabric.
âThey truly are beautiful, Sensei."Â
After pulling out the rest of [M/n]âs GI, Lloyd looked back to Wu expectantly. âWhatâd you get for me?âÂ
Wu paused, eyes flicking around in panic, âUh, well-â He blustered, earning an eye roll from [M/n]. âYou can have the box?âÂ
Lloyd frowned.Â
The elder was absolutely relieved when the alarm began blaring. âQuickly, to the bridge.â
Everyone hurried up to the Bridge, Nya hurried ahead of the group to pull up the map of Ninjago and the location of the snakes. Alongside the map she pulled up an article, published within the last five minutes. Well, it honestly wasnât an article, barely a paragraph long but it was information pertaining to the Serpentine.
âSomeone posted this article on their blog just a few minutes ago. Itâs a warning about the location of the Serpentine. Apparently a small faction of Serpentine are stirring up trouble at Mega Monster Amusement Park,â Nya explained, reading through the article. Her eyes went wide with alarm. âThey could cause a lot of trouble there! Hurt a lot of people.â
Lloyd didnât seem to hear that part, âAmusement park?! Can I go?! Please?! Thereâs nothing to do here! And Iâve been so bored! Please, please, please! Iâve been good!â He clung to [M/n]âs arm.Â
âNo. I am sorry, nephew, but it is far too dangerous for you to go. You will stay here, on the Bounty, where it is safe.â
[M/n] quietly moved up to step beside Wu, easily breaking from Lloydâs grip, lowering his voice, âLet him come with me.â
â[M/n]-â
âI can take care of him. Protect him. That article doesnât seem very urgent. He is a young boy, Sensei, a child. He needs to stretch his legs, not be stuck here on the Bounty every day.â
Wu hesitated, searching his students' gaze, âVery well. Lloyd you may go with the ninja, but you will stay with [M/n] at all times.â
âI understand!â Lloyd cheered, lighting up. He threw himself into a hug, wrapping his arms around [M/n]âs waist, cheering all the way. âThank you, thank you, thank you!âÂ
âÎÎŻÏÏΔ Î”Ï ÏÏÏÏΎΔÎșÏÎżÎč,â [M/n] brushed a hand down white-blonde hair. (You are welcome.)
âWell,â Jay began, holding up his new GI. âWhaddya say about testing out the new merchandise?â
âLetâs do it!â Cole cheered, leading the group up to the deck. Using Spinjitzu the five changed into their new GIâs, Lloyd oohing and aahing over [M/n]âs, seeming especially enamoured by the pauldron and embroidered leather chest guard. âAll right! This stuff feels like it will actually protect us really well.â
âIt feels more flexible,â Zane noted, messing with the fabric around his bicep.Â
Jay rolled his eyes, âYou wanna strut yourself on the catwalk? Or doâya wanna get down to the amusement park and kick some butt?âÂ
Kai scoffed, rolling his eyes, âNothing like fallinâ through the sky to beat a rollercoaster!â With a smirk, he hopped over the railing with the others, [M/n] easily scooping Lloyd up to do the same.Â
Unprepared, Lloyd yelped, clinging tightly to his neck. With the ease of practice, [M/n] summoned his Nethercopter, keeping Lloyd in his lap since theyâd only be in the vehicle for a minute. At the last second he dismissed the vehicle, landing on the cement wall.Â
Once he hopped down to the ground, [M/n] set Lloyd back down on the ground, rolling his eyes at the other ninjaâs cheering.
âWhoo!! Check that out! Not a scratch,â Cole announced, smugly dusting off his shoulders.Â
[M/n] looked around, quickly noticing the cheering coming from just ahead. For a place that was supposedly being terrorized by Serpentine the people were oddly happy.Â
Lloyd tugged on [M/n]âs GI, âWhatâs going on?â
âI am not sure. Stay behind me.â
Jay, mistaking the cheering for them, held up his hands as they approached, âHahaha, ladies, relax, relax, we have arrived.â Pushing their way through the crowd, they found a small group of Serpentine tied up, the women swooning over the Samurai, not the ninja, as the men complimented him.Â
âUh, what just happened?âÂ
âOh, you totally missed it. There were like icky snakes, and then this mysterious Samurai came in and saved everyone.â [M/n]âs brow pinched together, struggling to understand her accent to hear what she was saying. A glance to Cole showed he had a similar look.
âHe was, like, gorgeous,â a second woman added, fanning herself with her hand.Â
Kai perked up, âYou saw his face?â
âNo, but we could totally tell.â Nya appeared behind the two ladies, carrying sticks of cotton candy, cheeks flushed and hair a little mussed.Â
âNya? Wha-what are you doing down here?â Jay asked, reaching up to fiddle with his hair.
âHmm, oh, uh, you guys were slow, so I came down here myself. You guys missed all the action though, I mean that Samurai guy just flew in, took care of business, then flew off. It was skella cool, honestly,â Nya said, handing over the two cotton candies. When she saw the look [M/n] gave her, her cheeks darkened.
People around them continued to talk about the Samurai, easily dismissing the five ninja much to their disconcertion. [M/n] didnât care, he knew his abilities, and he was proud of the recognition of Nyaâs skills as the Samurai. At his side, Lloyd was bouncing on his toes, looking around at the different rides and games and food stalls, already mapping out which ones he wanted to try.Â
âUgh, who the fuck is this guy?!â Kai demanded, throwing his hands up.Â
âWhoever he is, heâs stealing out thunder,â Cole complained.Â
Lloyd, the precious little mischief maker he was, happily interjected, âWhat thunder? [M/n]âs got all the thunder, not you guys.â
âHeâs a thunderstorm,â Nya added, grinning.Â
[M/n] sighed, head tilting back in exasperation. âSkellions.â
With ease, [M/n] led Lloyd away from the ninja, offering Nya a wave as she headed in the opposite direction.Â
âAlright, λÎčαÎșΏΎα, where are we starting?â
âI wanna start with that one!â Lloyd declared, pointing to the second largest ride in the park. He then dragged [M/n] towards the line, much to the olders amusement.Â
[M/n] was content to allow himself to be led across the theme park, stopping at different stands to play games or grab food, easily winning Lloyd a swamp monster plush that had the boy laughing, an actual laugh this time. The last ride Lloyd chose was the Ferris Wheel, and since it was getting late, [M/n] figured a few rounds on it wouldnât hurt.Â
Lloyd had eventually noticed the way [M/n]âs hands constantly dropped to rest on the handles of the strange weapons in his hips, an unconscious motion of reassurance. Sitting in the passenger car, Lloyd finally found the opportunity to ask.Â
âHey, [M/n]?â
âYes?â
âWhere did you get your fan thingies?âÂ
âMy fan thi-? Oh, the Golden Tessens. I retrieved them from the Temple of Death, from under the protection of Ara, the Nether Dragon.â
âYou saw a dragon?!â
âI had a dragon,â [M/n] corrected.
âYOU HAD A DRAGON!!!!âÂ
[M/n] couldnât help but laugh. âI did. Heâs molting in the Spirit Coves, but I know heâll return once heâs finished.â
âAwesome! Tell me more!â
âAs you wish. Do you want to hear the full story or just a short-â
âFull story!â
Leaning back, [M/n] got comfy, eyes slipping closed. He searched his mind for the memory, trying to find the words to articulate exactly what he was thinking, exactly what had happened.Â
âWell, it was only a few weeks after Iâd woken up when I went after the Golden Tessens. Wu had this old map in the main room of the Monastery, and one day I found myself just staring at it, at this one location up across from the City of Domu, this unexplored area. For some reason I couldnât bring my attention away from that location. So, one day, I left. Packed a bag, marked the location on the map and left.â
âI made it to the forest surrounding the Temple after a solid 9 days of travel.â
Bare trees arched upwards, fingers creaking as the wind wove through the old graveyard, sliding across headstones and plaques before curling around the intruder that stood on the edge of the cemetery. At the time the Intruder had no knowledge of the Windâs role in protecting the temple. They had no way of knowing that it had chased away explorers for years with hisses, screams, and whispers, resorting to more volatile actions when they refused to be scared.Â
âÎΔÎčα ÏÎżÏ ÏίλΔ ÎŒÎżÏ ,â [M/n] murmured, understanding on an intrinsic level that the Wind would not hurt him. It curled around his limbs, bringing with it dead leaves as it swirled around his legs, eventually curling back around his hand. In a strange mimicry of tugging, the Wind led him along, guiding him through the cemetery. (Hello, my friend)
Curiously [M/n] followed along, ducking beneath the bare branches that threatened to snag in his hair, stepping over the patches of dead leaves. Ahead the Temple loomed, made of bare granite, two statues guarding the main entrance. It was obvious the Temple was old, the statues themselves weathered, with round edges and holes where there hadnât been before. The four swords in the left guard's hands were oblong sticks filled with holes, giving the stone blades a far more ominous look.Â
[M/n] stilled at the steps that led up to the doors, staring up at the stone guards warily. Even from here he could feel the power, the pull that had led him here, and that is what led him to walking up the stairs. It was only once heâd made it to the entrance that he realized the Wind had dropped his hand.Â
âÎΔΜ ÎŒÏÎżÏÎ”ÎŻÏ ÎœÎ± ΌΔ ÏÏ ÎœÎżÎŽÎ”ÏÏΔÎčÏ, ÎŒÏÎżÏΔίÏ?â [M/n] couldnât help the longing in his voice. (You cannot accompany me, can you?)
It sang, retreating back a ways, but not without curling across his shoulder
âÎ ÎżÎ»Ï ÎșαλΏ.â (Very well.)
Stepping into the Temple he was startled by the sudden surge of power beneath his feet, the ominous sensation of Death hanging over his shoulder having the opposite reaction that he should have. Instead of flinching back, [M/n] felt oddly settled. The power retreated, allowing him entry.Â
It occurred to him that that was why the Wind couldnât accompany him. Not because it didnât want to, but because it physically couldnât.Â
Even the understanding that he wasnât going to be killed or thrown from the Temple couldnât relax him. A mantra repeated through his head, âTo relax is to be vulnerable. To be vulnerable is to open your arms for death.â
He didnât know where the saying had come from, seeing as it wasnât something Wu would say, but he felt a heavy urge to follow it, to heed it.Â
The inner sanctum had multiple sets of stairs, some leading upwards, some leading downwards. Halls branched off, leading deeper into the Temple. It was meant to throw people off. A Temple in a Cemetery guarding the Golden Weapons of Death. Most would assume the Weapons would be down below, so [M/n] did the exact opposite.Â
Quietly making his way up the stairs, he peered around the corner, feeling his heart violently jump up into his throat. The stairs he had taken had led up to a glass observatory with a raised platform in the center of the room. On the platform was a podium which held the Golden Tessens. That wasnât the problem though.
It was the wyvern curled around the base.Â
It was beautiful. Partially âfeatheredâ with a long serpentine neck and tail, sharp claws and teeth, and purple scales. A crown of feather-like structures stretched back instead of horns, colored different shades of purple, running sparsely down its neck. The strange tail fin was made of the same feather-like structures, similar structures running down the tail like spines.Â
After a long minute spent observing the wyvern, he saw the tail twitch, âfeathersâ brushing against the marble ground.Â
It was a shock that he hadnât heard the audible breathing coming from the dragon, especially with his heightened hearing. But he couldnât leave the Golden Tessens behind. He knew they were important. He couldnât leave them behind.Â
A slow steady breath escaped [M/n]. Calming himself, he began slowly crossing the room. [M/n] kept his muscles tense, ready to move, and making sure his steps were carefully placed, making sure he didnât step on anything.
Circling the wyvern, [M/n] slowly tried to approach from behind, only to come to a stop when the Templeâs power surged again, retreating after a long moment. It was followed by shouting and the click of bone. Skulkin. He backed off as the wyvern began to wake.Â
As it climbed up to its full height [M/n] was able to see it in its full glory. Full height it was easily 18ft tall, easily twice that in length, even though it held itself lower on sprawled wings, using the razor sharp claw tips on its wings to crawl. A row of the same feather-like structures ran down its chest in a row, and down its back in two rows. Its body was mainly purple, splotches of blue across its snout, neck, and back, its wing tips and tail fin being grey in color.Â
A small group of Skulkin appeared at the top of the stairs, earning a terrible snarl from the wyvern. Some of the feathers began to slide together, creating this strange hissing sound that sent shudders down [M/n]âs spine. The Skulkin seemed to have a similar reaction, reeling back in surprise, but they werenât exactly smart.
The first charged forward with a yell, only to be snapped up in the dragon's maw, purple fog-like smoke pouring out around the Skulkin. It was then tossed to the side, bones separating and crashing down onto the marble floor loudly. Several moments passed, the other Skulkin waiting impatiently but they never reformed.Â
[M/n], who could see the curls of Nether around the Skulkins bones, was able to tell that the wyvern had been able to kill the Skulkin. Completely. The others began to tremble, bones rattling nervously. Taking the opportunity presented, [M/n] began slowly creeping closer to the podium.Â
Head whipping, the wyvern snapped up the other Skulkin, bones cracking under the pressure. Picking up the pace, the ninja was quick to cross the room, abandoning stealth for speed. Once on the platform he took the Tessens from the podium, finding himself completely enamoured by them, leaving him completely open.
Curling his hands around the ring, [M/n] couldnât take his eyes off the Tessens, the golden glint hypnotizing him to the point that he didnât even notice the wyvern approaching from behind.Â
A slow huff of hot breath from its nostrils ruffled [h/c] hair. Muscles freezing, [M/n] felt his heart begin to pick up its pace, thundering in his chest. His eyes closed for a second, waiting for those bone breaking jaws to close around him and break him.
Nothing happened, so after several long minutes, [M/n] turned around, moving slowly, meeting the narrowed silver gaze of the dragon. It held his gaze, searching for something before it pulled away, long neck allowing it to peer down at him with ease.Â
KhÄlai slowly formed by his feet, taking the form of some kind of house cat, calmly peering up at the wyvern, unbothered and unthreatened. Head tilting like an owl, the wyvern lowered its snout to investigate the shapeshifter, breathing ruffling their fur much to KhÄlaiâs amusement. Slowly its expression seemed to soften, backing off to give them room.
âAre you-are you letting me go?âÂ
It nodded, so [M/n] slowly stepped off the platform, KhÄlai following. Keeping his back away from the wyvern, [M/n] made his way down the stairs, turning to hurry away once the wyvern couldnât see him anymore.Â
â. . . Eventually I went back. It was a couple of months later that I made it back and managed to climb up onto his back and ride him. We needed his help to make it to the Underworld to face off against your father the first time.â
âReally? I canât believe you rode a dragon!âÂ
âTechnically I still do. Ara will return one day, and when he does I will take to the skies again.â
âWhen he comes back will you take me on a ride?!âÂ
âAs many as you wish, λÎčαÎșΏΎα.â
Lloyd brightened, happily asking more and more questions that [M/n] struggled to answer. Eventually, luckily, he wore himself out as they returned to the Bounty, parked nearby to wait for them. Settled in the futon, Lloyd tried to force himself to stay awake, but [M/n] simply began playing with his hair, easily coaxing him to sleep before settling down himself.Â
It was easy to fall asleep after the day theyâd had, only to be woken early in the morning when the alarm blared.Â
âWha-!â
âGo back to sleep,â [M/n] ordered, dressing quickly using. âIâll be back, keep yourself occupied, Nya will likely be busy. Try not to annoy, Sensei.â
âOkay.âÂ
[M/n] rushed out the door, racing up the stairs to the Bridge, the others only a few steps behind though they were only half dressed. Nya, still in her pjs, was typing away, pulling up the map of Ninjago, seeing where the dots had congregated.Â
Wu frowned, âSplit up. Take them one by one. Nya and I will update your coordinates as needed. Go. Quickly.â
As told, they took off from the Bounty heading in different directions to handle their assigned location. Each location had between 5 and 8 Serpentine wreaking as much havoc as they could, which on its own wasnât a lot but stacked up on top of each other it was. Whether killing or tying up the Serpentine, the numbers began to wrack up and more often than not, those that were tied up managed to escape.Â
Days passed, with each ninja having to take up to 5 different villages a day, and that was on a good day. The Samurai helped, handling cases closer to the Bountyâs location, which irritated the other ninja but left them free to handle things further out. Each day, they returned to the Bounty completely exhausted, nearly collapsing into their beds. It got to the point that in order to keep Lloyd from getting into things, each Ninja began dropping him off in nearby Villages to entertain himself with a little bit of pocket money.Â
[M/n] came back after visiting 9 villages, having killed at least 45 Serpentine, and crashed onto the futon before the sun set. All throughout the night, he reached for Lloyd but never found him, chest burning. He stayed asleep though, body completely exhausted. It wasnât until the sun had risen, nearly 12 hours later that [M/n] woke up, groggily looking around the room. Tired [e/c] looked around, brow furrowing when he realized Lloyd wasnât in the room and the futon remained undisturbed. Like Lloyd hadnât slept there. At all.Â
On alert, the purple ninja climbed up to his feet, forcing himself to stay steady. Swaying on his feet, he took only a moment to breathe in deeply, clearing away the sleep from his mind. Once his mind was cleared, he set off.Â
Instead of heading straight up, [M/n] headed to the ninjaâs room first, glancing inside to see if maybe the boy had been herded into the extra bunk for the night but it was untouched. The room itself was empty as well, so he moved on, hurrying to the game room, then to the kitchen, and the Bridge, all of which were empty. From there he went to the dining room, hoping that Lloyd was just eating breakfast.Â
But it wasnât to be, and he heard Wu asking, âWhere is my nephew? I thought you were looking after him.â
[M/n] pushed open the shoji door, hard enough that it rattled violently. âHeâs not here.â
Everyone in the dining room seemed to hold their breath, hearts pounding beneath his sharp gaze. Â
âCole was supposed to pick him up,â Kai declared, throwing the blame away from himself.Â
âI went to the arcade, but he wasnât there. Jay wasââÂ
âDonât bring me into this! I babysat yesterday. I had nothing to do with this, I didnât lose him.â
âDid no one bring him home last night?â Zane questioned, looking around in alarm. The other three dropped their heads in regret.
âThen we must find him, immediately,â Wu declared, blue eyes flashing golden. [M/n] turned to leave, but Wu caught him by the arm, seeing the emotions burning in his eyes. âI believe it would be best if you stayed behind. To go out and fight now with your emotions as they areââ
âMy emotions are perfectly in check,â [M/n] hissed. âI will not stay here, not when Lloyd is in danger.â
He ripped his arm from his Senseiâs hold, stalking back down to his own room to dig through his oaken chest of weapons, stocking up. The other four dressed, eerily silent under the solemn pressure [M/n] exuded.Â
Blades were slipped into every sheath he could attach to himself, tucking away his true Tessens into secondary holsters behind the Golden Tessens. Star-shaped shuriken were tucked into an additional pouch on the small of his back. Steadying his pounding heart, [M/n] led them back to the top deck, throwing himself off without wasting another moment.Â
It took him a moment longer than usual to summon the Nethercopter, mind twisting and turning, making it difficult for him to think straight. And through it all, his chest burned.Â
Kai took the lead on his Blade Cycle, leading them towards the town he had chosen to leave Lloyd in for the day. The town he had chosen was one located in the Sea of Sand, only a few miles away from Darklyâs, known as Tene which was one of the more technologically advanced towns. It had an arcade, a movie theatre, and a few different cheap restaurants for Lloyd to have been entertained with.Â
He pulled up alongside the arcade, Blade Cycle disappearing as he hurried along inside, leaving the other four to wait outside impatiently. âThis is where I left him,â Kai said, coming back out. âBut no one saw him enter or play. He could have gone down to the movie theatre, gotten something to eat, anything. Lloydâs a smart kid.â
âSmart, yes. But a kid, nonetheless,â [M/n] retorted, looking around. Zane rested a comforting hand on his shoulder.
âWe could look around, see if anyone else has seen him. The movie theatre is like-â
âHey, check this out!â Jay called, pointing up to a camera attached to the side of the building. âHold on, lemme see if I can find a way to get in, and look over the footage.â Jay ducked inside the arcade, having a quick rushed conversation with the cashier to borrow the tablet located behind the counter. It took him a good long minute to argue with the young man, but he didnât seem to be putting up much of a fight.Â
He came jogging back out, âGot it! Now, letâs see . . .â He found the box attached to the wall that the camera was attached to, attaching the cable heâd also borrowed to the box and the tablet to search through the files. âTodayâs date is-â
âWednesday, 17th of Etsu, 8043.â
âWhich means yesterday was the 16th, so here we go,â Jay mumbled, pulling up the video. The four gathered around him, peering over his shoulder to watch the footage.Â
They watched as Kai dropped Lloyd off, pulling away before the boy could walk into the arcade, which he turned to do. Then he stopped, looking in the direction of the alley. Side to side he looked around, slowly creeping closer to the corner to peer around the brick. Whatever Lloyd seemed to see had him ducking back behind the wall, hesitating.Â
He then crossed the alleyway, rushing into the shop just out of sight of the camera.
âUh, thatâs the costume shop, right next door,â Kai realized, gesturing to the door. âWe passed it on the way in. I . . . I think there was a snake costume in the window.â
âOk, thatâs where heâs going but what is he doing? I mean, why a costume? And for what? Who did he see in the alley?âÂ
Lloyd came back onto the screen, wearing the snake costume Kai had been talking about. Once more he looked both ways, ducking into the alley and out of sight of the camera. They continued to watch for a few minutes, waiting to see if he came back and when he didnât [M/n] stopped watching, heading into the alley himself.
In the still wet mud were child footprints, converse specifically, like the ones Lloyd wore.Â
âI believe these are Lloydâs footprints. He wears converse, yes?âÂ
âYes,â [M/n] agreed tersely.Â
Zane nodded, âThey end where these tracks begin. A vehicle of some kind I believe. But why would he board an unknown vehicle, especially not one driven by one of us?â
âThe Serpentine.â [M/n] rose from a kneel. âHe must have overheard something he thought was important, then followed them to see.â
âWhy would he do that?â Cole asked.
âBecause he wants to make things right.â
âThen it looks like weâre going for a ride. Letâs get a move on, boys,â Kai ordered, summoning the Blade Cycle. Following after him, Jay and [M/n] took to the skies, keeping low to the ground.
Following the tracks took them deeper and deeper into the Sea of Sand, a city beginning to appear on the distant horizon.Â
âWhat is that?âÂ
âUh, that wasnât there before. Right? Like, I havenât just missed a whole city on the map, right?â
[M/n] recognized the city from an old map, âOurouborous. The Ancient City of the Serpentine.â No one commented on the odd distortion, too afraid to bring it up.
âWe need a closer look at this. Quietly.âÂ
All five dismissed their vehicles, continuing the trek across the sand on foot. Two massive Serpentine statues, a Constrictai and Venomari, made from limestone, sat in front of the main gateway dressed in the Royal armor of the Generalâs Guard. Jay, Kai, Cole, and Zane all slowed when they approached the statues, shocked and awed by the grandeur. [M/n] ignored it all, slipping into the massive shadow to continue through the city on his own, easily following the chants of excitement coming from the center of the city.Â
It took all of his willpower to keep himself patient, to keep his steps slow and steady, carefully rolling his feet to minimize tracks. Instead of wearing the traditional jika-tabi he favored, [M/n] had traded them out for his heavier combat boots, better made for the fighting he planned to do, but that meant focusing more on his stealth rather than allowing the jika-tabi to pick up his slack. Creeping through a side tunnel that led straight into the arena, [M/n] sent a bĆ-shuriken into the eye of the Fangpyre on guard, catching them before they could hit the ground.Â
Peering out, [M/n] watched as the ninja rushed into the arena, a foolish endeavor, only to be caught in a trap. Their Golden Weapons clattered to the ground, the four letting out loud shouts of alarm.Â
But loudest of all was Lloydâs cry of fear. âNo!âÂ
Pythor cackled, slithering out from his hiding place, âLooks like weâve caught the main event!â This reinvigorated the crowd in the stands, only for their excitement to be interrupted by a shrill panicked scream. It was brutally cut short.
The Serpentine in the Arena all turned to find the sound, freezing when they spotted the headless body of a Hypnobrai, head only a few steps away. Blood pooled from the stump of a neck, sand clumping together and darkening to a rusty red. None of them noticed the darkly clothed ninja in the shadows, slowly circling.Â
Jayâs hands flew to his mouth, trying to hide the sound of his gagging. Cole and Kai were silent, eyes wide and mouths pulled into tense lines. Zane remained eerily blankfaced, only a furrow in his brows to be seen. Lloyd stared out at the body, not afraid like he thought he would be, but rather expectant. He trusted [M/n]. And he would be rescued.Â
Another bĆ-shuriken was sent flying, piercing the eye of a Venomari. They collapsed, the solidified Nether quickly subliming into its gas form, eating away at the surrounding bone, brain, and skin, quickly enough that they were dead near immediately.Â
[M/n] finally stepped out from the shadows, Golden Tessen hanging by his side, hood up and mask down. Only his glowing [e/c] eyes were visible in the shadow of the hood. âLet them go. All of them.â His voice was oddly sweet, almost amused. Like a hornet's honey. He offered no threats, only silence.Â
He continued to move however, every step taken with grace and surety. But he never quite left the coverage of the shadows, bobbing in and out of them.
Pythor laughed, ignoring the way the wound on his shoulder throbbed. Skales, on the other hand, backed away ready to flee at any moment. âNow, why would I do that? I promised a show to my fellow Serp-â
In a flash of movement another bĆ-shuriken was sent flying, finding a home in a Constrictaiâs eye with enough force for it to poke out the other side. This time he offered a threat, delivered calmly, âLet them all go. If you do not, I will kill as many of your Serpentine as I can. I will drag them down to the Underworld alongside me with my bare hands if I must.â
âHahaha! Do you truly believe that a threat?! We are the Ssserpentine! We have fought in many battles! A single Elemental Master does not scare us!â Skalidor laughed, earning a cruel twist of [M/n]âs lips.Â
Nether poured from the exposed skin of his hands, slowly taking the form of a large, muscular tiger. Claws digging into the ground, KhÄlai snarled. He and the shapeshifter shared a look, eyes narrowed.Â
They were out of time.
They leapt as one, KhÄlaiâs massive paws smacking into the skull of a Fangpyre and [M/n]âs Tessens slicing through the neck of a Hypnobrai. A snarl contorted [M/n]âs face, beginning a dance of death as KhÄlai followed at his heels, leaving behind bodies, heads, and limbs in a path of carnage.Â
Blood splattered across his face, eyes perpetually widened to take everything in. Every sword swung his way was dodged, every axe dogging his steps was kicked away, and every polearm was ripped from their grasp.Â
Up in the stands the Serpentine fled en masse into the city, many of them hatchlings or minders, not warriors. Their screams were filtered out, those in the arena ignoring their cries.Â
Unfortunately, even with his deadliness, his prowess, [M/n] was not infallible. Some of the more experienced Serpentine were able to match him, blow for blow, eventually being taken down with KhÄlaiâs help. But eventually the shapeshifters time went out, the energy used to keep him on this plane and not within the mental too taxing to hold up in a situation like this.Â
A single slice across his heel, through the leather of his boot, was the beginning of the end. For the Constrictaiâs trouble he earned a four-pointed shuriken to the eye. A heavy blow to the back of his skull from a club made him stumble, [M/n] whirling around with a stumble in his step to leave a slice across their face.Â
The butt of a polearm into his temple. The blade of an axe across his shoulder. Another club slammed into his knee. A sword dragged across his hip, narrowly missing his gut.Â
Lloyd yelled in fear at every hit, heart lurching.Â
A second hit across the back of his skull nearly knocked him to his knees, but even in the pain he managed to sink his Tessens into the Hypnobraiâs stomach. Kneeling, [M/n] took great heaving breaths, blood from a cut on his temple dripping into his eye.Â
Pythor slithered forward, throwing his arms out with a laugh, ââDrag usss all into the Underworldâ, isnât that what you said? Kill asss many of usss asss you could, was it? Look at you now, the mighty Purple Ninja brought to his knees!â
The remaining Serpentine hesitantly laughed. It seemed to fuel [M/n], even as his eyes began to struggle to stay open, and he summoned one last bĆ-shuriken to send flying through the air. It found its mark in Pythorâs arm, where his previous bĆ-shuriken had left behind thinned, blackened scales. Sinking past the skin beneath, it only made it an inch or two into the muscle itself, but that was enough. Subliming, it ate away at the muscle but thin as it had been it only managed to leave a wound three inches wide and several more deep.
Pythor screamed, hand nearly flying to the wound before Acidicus grabbed him by the wrist, quickly leading him away.Â
With a wet snarl, [M/n] collapsed into the sand, gaze finding Lloydâs. âLloyd-âÂ
Lloyd sobbed, clinging to the bars as his protector lost consciousness, four soldiers warily approaching him. With a hesitant look, one by one they grabbed onto his limbs, lifting him.Â
âPut him in a cage! Let him bleed out!â Pythor screeched, tail twisting and coiling in his anger.Â
The ninja were silent, horror clouding the air around them as they stared out at their teammate, their brother. His [h/c] hair was matted with blood and sand, the white of bone peeking through the blood, GI ripped and stained, leg twisted slightly, dragging awkwardly across the sand. The Serpentine roughly tossed him into a second cage, Lloyd yelling out.
âNo!!âÂ
âShut it!!â The Serpentine guard in front of Lloydâs cage banged his blade against his own cage. Lloyd scrambled away from the bars, freaking out.Â
Kai snarled, âDonât fucking touch him!â Nearby the Golden Sword heated up, the golden blade beginning to shimmer with heat.Â
The Golden Scythe seemed to tremble in place, Golden Nunchucks sparking violently, and the Golden Shurikens had frost slowly creeping across the sand around, all three mimicking their holders' reactions.Â
-----------
[M/n] woke slowly, which he hadnât done since heâd woken from his coma, rapidly blinking away the sudden light in his eyes. It took a long minute for his brain to catch up with what was happening. One moment he had been in the sands of the arena at Ouroubourus and now he was . . . in the courtyard at the Monastery. Except that wasnât possible. The Hypnobrai had burned it down, leaving the ancient building a burnt out husk of itself. But here?Â
It was beautiful, whole again. The LĂłng statue gleamed in the light, sunbaked tiles a welcome sight. In its beauty he was so lost, he didnât even notice the stranger leaning against the post on the engawa only a few meters away.Â
âWonder where you learned all those tricks?â It was a taunt.Â
Climbing the rest of the way to his feet, [M/n]âs hands flew to his waist where his Tessens should have been. But they werenât there. Instead of panicking, he quickly allowed his body to fall into the familiar first stance of the Imperial Leopard.Â
[E/c] eyes scanned over him, quickly taking in everything about this stranger - from his green streaked hair, to cat-like jade green eyes, to the strange markings across his skin, oddly reminiscent of the Hypnobrai.Â
A smirk played across thin lips, jade eyes watching him in turn, âYou donât remember me, do you?â
âShould I?â
That smirk fell, only for a moment, before returning, âWe only spent nearly my entire life together. Stuck together at the hip. Got worse when we got together.â
âGot together?â [M/n] repeated slowly. âAs in . . .â
âDating? Yeah.â
[M/n] slowly dropped his stance, âIf we were . . . dating, then why werenât you there when I woke up? Why have you not been with me?â
ââCause I canât be. I died, [M/n], a long time ago, even if you canât remember it.âÂ
âI donât . . .â [M/n] fell silent, observing the man closely. Everything about him was . . . familiar when he really thought about it. The way his hair fell into his face, nearly obscuring his eyes with a tilt of his head was so familiar that he knew when the other was going to do so. His face, his eyes, his hands, everything was familiar, like heâd seen it before.Â
It hit him then. He had seen him before. In his dreams, or rather, his memories.
âI do know you,â [M/n] admitted, slowly approaching. âI donât remember your name but I know you. You were the one who taught me how to pick pockets, the one who trained with me in the Golden Leopard. I know you used to keep your hair up during training and you used to own a kite you could fly on your own. I know you made me a bracelet from river stones and the leather of a rabbit you caught. But I canât. Remember. Your name.â
He took a shuddering breath, jade eyes searching for something before his expression softened, âMorro. My name. Itâs Morro.â Scarred palms carefully cupped his face, cradling him with surprising tenderness.Â
âMorro,â [M/n] repeated softly, feeling the name slot into place with ease. Like a puzzle piece. Morro couldnât help the shudder that ran through his entire body, eyes closing for a moment as he pulled [M/n] closer, foreheads pressing together.Â
âFuck.â Morro let out a trembling breath. âI forgot what you sounded like, itâs been so long . . .â A hand dropped down to his waist, tugging him even closer, until their bodies were slotted together. For several minutes they just stood there, in each other's embrace.Â
âWhat is this place?âÂ
âA border. çł, thereâs a word for itâLiminal. Itâs a liminal space.â (Shit)
âIâm . . . dead?â
Morroâs jaw tightened, âNo. Not dead. At least not yet. The longer you stay in a place like this, the closer to death you get. Which means you need to make a choice. Stay or leave. Live or die.â [M/n] was quiet. âIâm . . . Iâm sorry.â
âFor what? Youâre not the reason Iâm here.â
âYouâll understand one day. But you need to leave. For that boy. He needs you.â
âLloyd? You-you know Lloyd?â
That had Morro frowning, brow drawing down tightly, âI-I do, I donât know how but I do. Itâs weird. Iâve been aware of some things that happen to you, like . . . like Iâm there.â Morro snorted, âLike a ghost.â That seemed to be quite the source of amusement for him.
âAnd I canât feel you because?â
âIâm too dead?â
âThatâs not funny.âÂ
Morro shrugged, âWhatever you say. But I am serious. You need to leave.â
[M/n] looked away, closing his eyes for a moment. âWhy are you sorry?â
âI canât. You need to go, otherwise you die and Iâm not letting that happen. Go.â [M/n] didnât move, [e/c] eyes searching. âGo!â
âOk, ok,â [M/n] soothed, slowly backing off. His heart ached, the words falling free without thought, âI love you.âÂ
Morroâs voice shuddered, âI love you too.â
Step by step [M/n] backed away, that heat in his chest slowly growing, tugging at his rib bones, urging him to the doors even as he delayed himself, unable to take his eyes off his partner. He knew he had to leave, knew he needed to complete his destiny, but that didnât make it any easier. He would never get this opportunity again, never get to see Morro again.
[M/n] looked to the doors, barely a few seconds of his eyes not being on Morro, but when he turned back the man was gone. Breath hitching with grief, he closed his eyes. Pushing open the door, [M/n] stepped out and sank into his subconscious.
Simultaneously
The room was eerily silent. Everyone was sitting around [M/n]âs bedside, staring down at the teen in the makeshift sick bay Nya had fixed up. Zane had set himself on a stool directly at his side, carefully holding [M/n]âs hand.Â
It had been several hours since their rescue from the arena, since they had been picked up by the Bounty. Zane and Wu had spent over two hours after that cleaning, stitching, and setting all of [M/n]âs wounds, carefully bandaging him up and changing his clothes. His wounds had been worse off once they made it to the Bounty, filled with sand and bits of rock from the crash landing after their impromptu rescue by the Samurai.
No one knew what to say. How to break the oppressive silence.
[M/n] had always seemed indestructible, infallible, untouchable. Better than the other ninja, faster, with better battle sense than any of them. Now he was laying limp on a cot, nearly his entire body covered in bandages with nothing to show for it. All of that fighting, and Lloyd was still in the grasps of the Serpentine.Â
Nya couldnât stand it any longer. The sight of, who she considered, her best friend laying limp on a cot looking far too small had her storming away in anger, storming off to her own room, bitter tears in her blue eyes.Â
âHow do we tell him?â Cole asked, breaking the silence, door swinging. His accent was thicker than ever, slurring his words. âHow do we tell him we failed?! That he nearly died and they still have Lloyd?! That we couldnâtâ?!â He cut himself off, accent coloring his words to the point that the others had an even harder time understanding him. Taking ragged breaths, he managed to calm himself down. âWe left Lloyd. We have all seen how much he cares. This . . .â
âItâs going to devastate him. Or make him angry,â Jay finished the thought, wringing his hands and ripping at the skin around his fingernails. Kai looked away, hands closing into fists and nails digging into his skin.
âI will tell him,â Wu decided, head lowered, looking older than he ever had sitting in that chair. There was a terrible grief in his gaze. âLloyd is my nephew, he is my responsibility. I should not have delegated the task of watching him to any of you, I should have watched over him myself. That makes it my responsibility to tell him what happened.â
Jayâs eyes misted over slightly but he left soon enough, Cole and Kai right behind him, leaving behind Zane and Wu. Eventually Wu moved himself to the floor, meditating but Zane kept himself still, refusing to move from the stool.Â
The ninja were enjoying breakfast together, discussing the Serpentine Tribes and Pythors efforts to reunite them. Lloyd had joined in, after finally waking up, and the conversation turned to facing the different Tribes.Â
"First, I'll stomp on his tail. Then when he turns, a thunder clap to his ears. Then when he's stunned, I'll disarm him," Lloyd demonstrated, jumping around the small dining area. He looked to [M/n], seeking approval but the others were quick to shoot him down.Â
"Too late, he's already hypnotized you and now you're under his control," Cole said.
"Or he's already put you in a squeeze," Zane offered, hand dropping to his ribs in remembrance of the Constrictai Generals grip.
"Or spit on you with his hallucinatory venom. Trust me, bad stuff," Kai grimaced.
"Uncle, what's the best way to stun a Serpentine if you don't know what kind they are?" Lloyd asked, sitting back down beside [M/n].
"Sadly, it was the Sacred Flute you five carelessly lost," Wu stated, sending a sharp look towards the ninja.
[M/n], ignoring him, leaned down a bit to whisper, "I'll teach you how to identify which tribe they're from, don't worry."
"Hey, no, no, no, we didn't lose it. Pythor stole it," Jay argued, ignoring [M/n] in turn.
"Whatever the case, without it I fear we have nothing to combat their powers. We may have prevented them from uniting in the past, but they will try again, and one day they will be stronger."
"Don't worry. I've almost reached my Full Potential, and when I become the Green Ninja, we're not gonna need any magic flute," Cole stated, flexing his muscles.Â
[M/n] sighed, pressing his pointer and middle finger to his forehead as an argument started up. Again.
"You're gonna be the Green Ninja? Hahaha, don't make me laugh."
"I thought it was decided that I was destined to become the Green Ninja."Â
Lloyd looked around in confusion, having never actually heard of the Green Ninja until now. He looked up, tried too, when a hand dropped on his head and ruffled his blond locks. "Please don't grow up to be idiots like them."
"No way. I'll be way cooler."
"Oh! The only thing decided about you, Zane, is that you're weird."Â
Lloyd's attention was caught when Wu stood and retrieved a box from the Postman, quietly sitting back down. Realizing the ninja were all too focused on their arguement, he raised his voice, "Yeah, yeah, yeah! What's in the box?"
"Your new uniforms," Wu said, passing out the GI's.Â
The four tore open the clear packaging around them, admiring their GI's. [M/n] was more meticilous, removing his and carefully scrutinizing it as Lloyd looked it over in awe.
Seperate from the GI was a silver pauldron, sculpted into the shape of a fox. Surprised by the extravagent piece, he ran his fingers over it, admiring the detail and metal work.
"Whoa! They've got, like, armor," Jay realized, holding up the fully armoured sleeve.
"I love the gold highlights," Kai added, referring to the golden pieces of armor.
"Battle claws!" Cole cheered.
"The material is really light and breathable," Zane murmured, running his hand over the fabric.
"They are beautiful, Sensei."Â
Lloyd looked disappointed when he realized he wasn't getting anything. "Oh, nothing for me?" [M/n]'s gaze instantly flicked to Wu, who gave him an awkward, unsure look in return.
"Um, you get, uh, the box." The man looked absolutely relieved when the alarm went off, distracting everybody.
Gathering in the Bridge, they patiently waited to be debriefed as Nya had taken to calling it.Â
"A small faction of our slithering friends are stirring up trouble at Mega Monster Amusement Park," Cole stated, reading the article Nya pulled up.
"Amusement park? Can I go? Can I go with you, please? Let me make things up. I can help," Lloyd practically begged, looking between his Uncle and [M/n].
"I'm sorry, nephew. You will stay here, where it's safe," Wu refused. Before Lloyd could try and argue, [M/n] stepped in.
"I'll take him." Wu still looked hesitant, so [M/n] elaborated. "I can protect him, besides it is unhealthy for a young boy to be cooped up for too long."
Wu relented, nodding. "You are not to leave [M/n]'s side, am I understood, Lloyd?"
"Yes, Uncle! I won't!" Lloyd agreed, bouncing in place with barely restrained excitement.
"What do you say, guys? Time to try out the new merchandise?" Jay asked, holding up his GI.
Up on deck, they all used Spinjitzu to change into their new GI's.Â
Lloyd oohed and aahed appropriately over [M/n]'s GI, especially enamoured with the fox pauldron and black leather chest guard.Â
"All right. This new stuff feels like it'll really protect us," Cole said, flexing his bicep.Â
"Yet, provides more mobility," Zane agreed.Â
"You wanna strut your stuff on the catwalk, or get down to that amusement park so we can go on some rides?" Jay sassed.
"I love a good old fashioned roller coaster, but nothing beats this," Kai stated, throwing himself off the ship with the other three.Â
[M/n] carried Lloyd, unwilling to risk him not being caught in his NetherCopter. Summoning his Copter to slow their decent, he kept Lloyd in his lap.
At the last second all of their vehicles disappeared and they landed on the large cement wall surrounding the entire amusement park.Â
"Haha! Check that out. And not a scratch on me," Cole announced smugly, brushing off his sleeve.
Hopping down, they all noticed the cheering crowd that had gathered and the four mistook it as excitement to see them.Â
"Haha, ladies, relax, relax, we have arrived," Jay said, pushing his way through the crowd to get to the center.Â
Which is where they found a small group of Serpentine tied up as a group of ladies swooned over their mysterious savior.Â
"Uh, what just happened?"
"Oh, you totally missed it. There were like, icky snakes, and then this mysterious Samurai came in and saved everyone," Woman #1 stated. [M/n]'s brows pinched together as he struggled to understand her accent and what she was actually saying.Â
Glancing to the side, he saw Cole with a similar look.
"He was, like, gorgeous," Woman #2 added.Â
Kai perked up. "You saw his face?"
"No, but we could totally tell." Nya appeared behind the ladies, carrying two sticks of cotton candy with cheeks a little flushed, and hair a little messier than normal.
"Nya, you're here," Jay realized.
"Yeah, you boys just missed the action. That samurai you were talkin' about? He just flew in and took care of business, and then flew off. It was pretty cool," Nya admitted, cheeks darkening when she saw the look of amusement [M/n] was giving her.
People around them began talking about the Samurai, dismissing the ninja which upset the four. Lloyd, who was growing bored, bounced beside [M/n], looking around trying to decide which ride he wanted to go on first.
"Ugh, who is this guy?" Kai grumbled.
"Whoever he is, he's stealing our thunder," Cole complained. Lloyd, the precious little thing he is, happily interjected.
"What thunder?" He glanced up to [M/n] with a cheeky grin. "[M/n]'s got all the thunder."
Nya grinned and added, "He's a thunderstorm."
Sighing, he tilted his head back. "Skellions."
He led Lloyd away from the ninja as they began devising a competition of sorts against the Samurai.
"I wanna ride that one first!" Lloyd announced, pointing to one of the larger rides. [M/n] was perfectly content to be led to ride after ride and forced to try several different fair foods.Â
They ended up saving the Ferris Wheel for last, so [M/n] paid for multiple go arounds. Lloyd couldn't help but notice how the older teens hands constantly rested on the handles of his Tessens. He vividly remembered the striking golden fans with their black iron blades.
"Hey, [M/n]?"Â
"Hmmm?"
"Where did you get your fan thingies?"
"My fan thi- Oh, my Tessens. I retrieved them from The Temple of Death where Ara, my dragon, was guarding them."
Lloyd's head snapped around to look at the older, jaw dropping. "Tell me more! You have a dragon?!"
"Yes. He's molting in the Spirit Coves but he'll return. I know he will. Do you wish to hear the full story or the shortened-"
"The full story!"Â
[M/n] chuckled, leaning back against the seat and getting comfy.
Closing his eyes he brought the memory to the forefront of his mind, trying to find a good place to start. He was aware of the boys gaze on him, but assumed he was impatiently waiting for him to begin.Â
He couldn't see how the moonlight reflected off his features, giving him an ethereal look and highlighting the features that made him seem so menacing.Â
Bare trees arched upwards, fingers creaking as the wind wove through the old cemetary, sliding across headstones and plaques before curling around its mysterious intruder in welcome.
The intruder didn't know it at the time but the Wind had been a fierce protector of the Temple and the surrounding cemetery and forest, chasing others away with whispers, hisses, and screams.Â
"ÎΔÎčα ÏÎżÏ ÏίλΔ ÎŒÎżÏ ," [M/n] murmured, understanding the wind wasn't out to harm him. Even without memories he knew the Wind was a friend and ally, not an enemy. (Hello, my friend.)
Whispering, it curled around his hand and lifted it in an odd mimicry of tugging. Smiling curiously, he followed along, dodging low hanging branches that threatened to get caught in his hair and carefully placing his feet to dodge the patches of dead leaves that always crunched obnoxiously.Â
The Temple of Death loomed ahead, made of dark stone with two, weathered, stone statues guarding the doors to the temple. Having stood there for so long, through sunshine, rain, and snow, the statues had long since lost the more intricate details. The four swords it held had been filed down and know looked like oblong sticks with holes, giving it a far creepier and ominous look.Â
[M/n] rolled his shoulders as he passed the two, looming statues, feeling like he was being watched. Picking up the pace, he paused in the archway, pressing a hand against the doorway as the Wind released him and retreated back towards the cemetary and forest.Â
He wished the wind could accompany him inside but the Temple would not take well to intruders. Other Elements would be chased out if they dared intrude.
Pushing at the doors had them slowly opening without a sound and he slowly crossed the threshold, pausing. Even when he wasn't chased away or killed immediately, he still didn't relax.Â
'To relax too soon is to leave yourself vulnerable. And vulnerability is death.'
He didn't know where the saying had come from or where he had learned it, but he knew he needed to abide by it.Â
The sanctum had multiple sets of stairs, leading both up and down, but he walked directly to the stairs tucked away in the corner and took them to the floor above. Most people, if they could even make it inside the Temple, would assume the Weapons would be underground and take the stairs downward.
On the top floor was an observatory, which was surprising, with a raised platform in the center holding the Tessens of Nether. Curled around the platform was a marble wyvern that looked eerily lifelike.Â
When it moved, [M/n] wasted no time in retreating back down the stairs, pausing halfway down and listening carefully. The Temple was silent but now he could pick out the slow, even breaths of the dragon that he had, wrongfully, ignored. Hesitating, he knew he had to continue.Â
Leaving meant the Tessens would fall into the Skulkins bony hands and be brought to Lord Garmadon, who would then have the power he needed.
A silent sigh escaped him as he prepared himself. Every step was chosen and placed carefully, muscles held tense as he readied himself for the need of quick movement. His first step onto the painted marble floor of the observatory did not wake the dragon but he still paused, taking in its beauty.
Imperial blue scales with an almost purple undertone resembled the night sky, especially with the silver scales dotted around its flank. Iris colored feathers lined its long, slender neck and face forming a crown of sorts. More ran down its spine, stopping halfway.
Large grey-blue wings with silver veins were tucked beneath its sharp, angular jaw and its tail was loosely curled around the base of the platform. He wouldn't be able to get close without waking the, admittedly beautiful, dragon.
Circling around the dragon, since it had a pretty good view of the stairs from where its head was positioned, he stayed behind it as he tried to think of a solution. Shouting from below, accompanied by the clicking of bone on marble, had the wyvern stirring.Â
Feathers shifted as it slowly began to wake, lifting its head up to look towards the stairs with silver. Hissing, its feathers began to move together creating a strange sound beneath its own voice that had shivers running up and down [M/n]'s spine. Standing, it shook itself off, having likely been asleep for a very long time.Â
KhĂȘlai, the strange shifter that somehow resided wirhin him, his soul/mindspace apparently, surged beneath his skin. Curious and wary, he really wanted to face this dragon but [M/n] kept a tight hold, focusing on the fight to come.Â
Skulkin, a small group luckily, rushed up the stairs pausing at the landing when they came face to face with a dragon. None of them moved for a moment before one lifted its sword and shouted. Roaring, the wyvern crossed the space in a few long strides and snatched up the Skulkin in its maw as grey-purple fog poured out.Â
Flinging it to the side, the Skulkin did not reform scaring the others. How could you kill something that was already dead?
Taking the opppotunity, [M/n] ran for the platform and the Tessens. Grabbing them, he was completely enamoured by the coldess the Tessens gave off. Staring at the twin fans, he didn't even notice the wyvern slowly approaching until KhĂȘlai reacted, snarling visciously.Â
Spinning around, he came face to face with it.Â
The Temple was silent as silver met [e/c]. For several minutes nothing happened, until [M/n] felt the slightest touch on the edge of his mind. Curiosity, not his own or KhĂȘlai's, bloomed at the edge of his mind.Â
He knew the curiosity came from it, him, and then he felt the impression of flying. The dragon wanted to fly with him.Â
And so, [M/n] returned to the Monastery atop the Guardian of the Golden Tessens.Â
Lloyd was so amazed he was bouncing in place, spitting out so many questions that [M/n] was struggling to answer them all.
The entire way back to the Bounty was like that, with Lloyd genuinly curious about the Temple, the Wind, Ara, and everything else that had caught his attention in the story. Once he was tucked into his futon, with [M/n] stretched out beside him, he passed out, completely exhausted from his excitement filled day. Both slept through the night.Â
The alarm went off early that morning and [M/n] was quick to wake and get to the Bridge where Nya was. Still dressed in their pj's, the ninja gathered around as she pulled up locations on their map of Ninjago. "Multiple snake sightings! There everywhere!"
With so many, they were forced to take 4 to 5 each. And that was just from that night.Â
At each location there were only a few, never more than five Serpentine, that were terrorizing the people. While this made it easy to take care of them, whether by knocking them out or killing them, it was still exhausting. For everyone.Â
Even with the Samurai's help, they returned to the Bounty exhausted day after day. With them all so busy, the ninja had taken to dropping Lloyd off within the nearby villages so he could entertain himself, rotating days.Â
[M/n] returned one night, after visiting nearly 9 villages, and passed out as soon as he laid down, no blankets or pillow. His sleep was uneasy, as he reached out for Lloyd but never found him. After only 5 short hours of sleep, he completely woke and searched the ship for Lloyd.Â
The sun had risen sometime during his search, so he headed towards the dining room where the rest of the ninja were. He came up just as Wu asked, "Where is my nephew? I thought you were looking after him."
[M/n] slammed the shoji door open, nearly breaking it, "He's not here."
Everyone in the dining room went still beneath his piercing gaze.Â
"Cole was supposed to pick him up," Kai declared, throwing the blame away from himself.Â
"I went to the arcade, but he wasn't there. Jay wasâ"Â
Jay violently shook his head, leaning back, "Don't bring me into this. I babysat yesterday. I had nothing to do with this, I didn't lose him."
"We have not seen him," Zane stated.Â
"We must find him," Wu ordered, blue eyes flashing with something. When [M/n] turned to leave, Wu reached out and grabbed him by the arm, stopping him. "It would be best if you stayed here, [M/n]. Your emotions-"
"I am in perfect control of my emotions, Wu. I know exactly what I'm gonna do who took him."
[M/n] pulled away, stalking up to the deck with the others close behind. He jumped off, summoning his NetherCopter as Kai took the lead on his Blace Cycle, taking them to the arcade he'd left Lloyd at.Â
"Lloyd? Lloyd? He was right here. Someone must have seen him," Kai said, ducking back out from the shop.Â
Cole had a gentle hand on [M/n]'s shoulder as the ninja stared off into the distance, worried, as Zane gently pressed against his other side. Jay was looking around, a little worried as well, and spotted the camera positioned above them. "Hey, guys. Check this out."
Popping inside the arcade, Jay asked to borrow a tablet from someone. Surprisingly, someone let him and he rushed back out to connect the tablet to the camera and pull up the footage.Â
The tablet was given to [M/n] after Jay had found when Kai had dropped Lloyd off. Everyone crowded around him to watch the footage.Â
"What is he up to?" Jay asked, leaning over [M/n]'s shoulder to get a better look. After Kai left Lloyd went down the alley before ducking into the costume shop next door and dressing up like a Serpentine before going back down the alley.
When he didn't come back, [M/n] shoved the tablet into Jay's hands and went straight to the alley. They found footprints leading towards a back road, hidden behind the buildings.Â
"I sense these are Lloyd's footprints, but they come to an end here. Why?" Zane asked, leading them to the tire tracks. [M/n] growled, a low rumbling sound that had them all on edge.Â
"Something tells me we're going for a ride. Come on, boys," Kai said, summoning his vehicle. [M/n] hadn't even let him finish his sentence, the NetherCopter moving faster than normal.Â
As they followed the track deeper into the desert, a city that had not been there a few days before appeared on the horizon.
"What is that place?" Cole asked.
"Looks like snake city," Jay offered, shrugging.
"Ourobourus," [M/n] rasped, voice distorting unnaturaly over the comms. No one commented on it, deciding not to bring it up to the pissed off purple ninja.Â
"Let's get a closer look," Kai decided, releasing their vehicles so they could sneak closer.Â
Slipping into the shadows of the large Serpent statues, [M/n] left the ninja behind to move quicker on his own. None of them noticed him slip away.Â
A Venomari guarding one of the entrances fell to [M/n] blades, head barely hanging on by a thread. He slipped to the edges of the arena as the ninja rushed in and were caught in the trap that Pythor had set up.Â
Their Golden Weapons clattered to the ground as the Serpentine cheered. "Ninja!" Lloyd cried, uncurling from the ball he'd been in.Â
"Looks like we've caught the main event," Pythor announced, reinvigorating the Serpentines cheers until a shrill scream echoed the arena before it was brutally cut off. Just like their head.Â
The decapitated head of a Hypnobrai was visciously kicked into the arena and multiple Serpentine scrambled away from the ominous shadows that hid the purple ninja.Â
The four ninja watched in horror as blood pooled around the head, while Lloyd went still, a feeling of protection settling over him.Â
Nothing would touch him. [M/n] was coming. Death was coming.Â
"Let them all go," [M/n] ordered, voice soft and calm. Sweet and honeyed like a hornets honey. "And I don't kill every Serpentine in this arena."
Pythor laughed, taking it as a bluff even as the wound on his arm throbbed painfully. Skales backed away, fully ready to flee the moment the ninja moved. "Now, why would I do that? I promised a show to my fellow Serp-"Â
A bo shuriken sank into the eye of a nearby Constrictai, sinking so deep the sharp end stuck through the other side. When he spoke, a growl tinged the edges of his words, "Let. Them. All. Go. Or I kill you all."
"You think you can kill ussss all? We are the SSSSSSerpentine!" Skalidor shouted angrily. KhĂȘlai lunged from the shadows, a massive tiger that ripped out the spine of another Venomari, roaring in triumph.Â
[E/c] eyes turned purple, glowing in a way that casted a purple light across his cheekbones and highlighted the blood splattered across his bare face.Â
They were out of time.Â
[M/n] lunged, a fox pouncing on the vipers around him, and sliced through a Constrictai's head, exposing the squishy brain inside. Grinning ferally, he began his Dance of Death with KhĂȘlai leaving behind a path of decapitated bodies, heads, and assorted appendages along the battlefield.Â
Blood was streaked across his face and GI, as he dodged a swipe of a sword. KhĂȘlai's entire maw was drenched in blood as were his massive paws and the pair proved a fearsome sight, sending many of the Serpentine fleeing deeper into the city.Â
Unfortunately, the two were not infallible and lucky shots began to pile up. Forced to conserve energy, KhĂȘlai retreated back into the ChĂłropsych leaving [M/n] alone on the battlefield.Â
A slice across the back of heel, cutting through his boot, had him spinning to dig his blades into the offenders eye only for another to slam a club into the back of his skull. Gasping, he lashed out slicing through the Constrictai's throat as he dropped to his knee, panting to work through the pain.Â
Lloyd screamed as a second blow to the head had [M/n] nearly collapsing forward. Turning, he cut through the skin of the Hypnobrai's stomach and their guts poured forth, landing on the ground with a heavy splat.Â
Pythor, finally gaining an ounce of courage, slowly slithered forward, throwing out his arms in display, "What did you say? You'd kill us all?" He couldn't help but taunt the slowly collapsing ninja.Â
Snarling and using the last bit of his focus, even as black began to creep into his vision, he sent a Bo Shuriken into Pythor's shoulder, only a few inches away from where his artery was. Though, even if it had hit, it likely wouldn't have sunk deep enough to do any damage.Â
Shrieking, Pythor retreated as he held a hand to the wound, waiting until the ninja finally collapsed. The ninja watched in horror as blood poured from the back of his skull, where they could see pieces of bone from his skull peeking through. One of his legs was twisted slightly, with more blood pooling from the numerous cuts along his body.Â
Lloyd clung to the bars, tears streaming down his face as he saw his protector slowly bleeding out in front of him. He whimpered, and a Hypnobrai slammed their sword on the bars making him stumble back in fear.Â
Kai, who saw, shouted in rage as his sword began to heat up. "Don't fucking touch him!"Â
Cole was trembling with barely restrained fury as Jay sparked in fear. Zane gave no outward reaction but the air around him was unnaturally cold.Â
In the Inbetween
[M/n]'s eyes sprang open, and he was forced to rapidly blink away the bright influx of colors and light. One moment he was blacking out, after injuring Pythor, and now he was standing just before the large red doors of the Monastery. Except . . . the Monastery was a burnt husk after the fire, but this Monastery was whole and beautiful with nothing out of place.Â
He was so lost in thought, he did not even notice the stranger leaning against the railing of the engawa until he spoke, "Wonder where you learned all those little tricks?"Â
Spinning, [M/n] found a young man watching him and his hands dropped down to where his Tessens sat, but they were not there. Instead of panicking, he simply slipped into the first stance of the Imperial Leopard.Â
The man wore his black, green streaked hair loose allowing it to fall into cat-like jade eyes that watched him closely. Standing out the most were the strange markings along his skin, like a Hypnobrai's markings.Â
Jade eyes flicked over his body, reading him with ease. Keeping his body relaxed, he mused out loud, "You don't remember me? Do you?"
"Should I?"
The slight smirk that had been playing across lips, fell for just a moment. "We grew up together. Spent damn near every waking moment together. Got worse when we got together."
"Got together? We were . . ."
"Star-crossed lovers? Soulmates? Partners? Take your pick."
[M/n] lowered his hands, dropping his stance. "I don't understand. If you are my partner why were you not-"
"I died. A long time ago. So . . ."Â
His arms crossed as he began to close off and shut down, obviously disliking the topic they were heading towards. Narrowing his eyes, [M/n] slowly crossed the courtyard until he stood barely a foot of space between them. "I don't remember your name. It sits on the tip of my tongue in every memory I recieve but I can't remember it whenever it ends. But I remember I loved you. I remember mourning you. I know you used to use Kanzashi to hold your hair up. You made me a bracelet of river stones. You used to fly a kite. And I know the Wind is yours. But I don't. Remember. Your name."
Breath shuddering, the man reached forward and gently cupped his face with calloused and scarred palms, looking at him so gently. "Morro, ç§ăźæ." (My love.)
"Morro," [M/n] repeated softly, smiling slightly. The name fit perfectly, like a puzzle piece clicking into place. Morro shuddered, shoulders trembling as he leaned forward to press their foreheads together, eyes closing to savor this moment.
"Fuck. I forgot what your voice sounded like." Morro tugged him close until their entire bodies were pressed together, fitting together easily with [M/n]'s head tilted back slightly so he could look at Morro. "I'm so sorry."
Desperation tinged the edges of his apology, and [M/n] pulled away a bit in confusion and worry. "What? What are you sorry for? Morro?"
"I can't. Its almost time for you to go home. Get that boy back. Take care of him."
"I will. But-"
"No. If you stay much longer you will die. You have to go."
"Okay. Okay," [M/n] soothed, pulling away. "I- I love you, Morro."
"I love you too. Now, go. Before its too late."
Nodding, [M/n] went for the doors hesitating for only a second to look back but Morro was already gone, likely returning to the Departed Realm.
He pushed open the doors and everything went black.Â
Real World
The room was entirely silent as everyone sat around [M/n]'s bedside in the temporary Medbay Wu and Nya had set up. Zane sat on a stool at [M/n]'s side, holding one of his hands in his own as he bowed his head.Â
It had taken hours for him to finish stitching [M/n] up, and it was a miracle he hadn't bled out before the Samurai had rescued them. Of course their crash landing had nearly made his open wounds worse, filling them with sand and putting him further at risk for infection.
No one knew what to say. The ninja, a teenager now that they thought about it, had always seemed untouchable, invincible always coming out of fights with ease. Now, he was laying limp on a cot with bandages wrapped around his too small form, and making him so small and pale.Â
Nya couldn't take it, the silence or seeing her friend like this, and fled back to her own room, trying to hide frustrated tears in anger.Â
"How do we tell him?" Cole asked, breaking the silence as the door violently swung from Nya's abrupt departure. His accent was more noticable than ever, slurring his words. "How do we tell him we failed? That he nearly died and they still have Lloyd?! That we couldn'tâ?!"Â
He cut himself off, cursing to himself in Italian as he looked at the teenager in the cot. "We left Lloyd. We've allâ we've all seen how much he cares for him. This is . . ."
"It's going to devestate him," Jay mumbled, wringing his hands and tearing at the skin around his fingers.Â
Kai looked away, fists curling.
"I will tell him," Wu decided, looking older than ever in his own chair as he watched over his oldest student gravely. "Lloyd was my responsibility. I should have watched over him myself. As such, it is my responsibility to tell him of our failure."
Jay curled in on himself, eyes misting over a bit as he looked to the purple ninja before he left. Kai followed, heading to the training room. Zane and Cole both stayed, keeping vigile as Wu meditated.