Human Error

Lies

Historia, Vines, Fox, and Guardian were now somewhat rested after their run, and were ready to go again. They still haven't gotten an explanation from Fox, but they saved it for later, now Paradise was just beyond the forest's reach. They were one step closer to saving their friends.

They kept low and quiet, their eyes wandering over the almost… ruined looking stone building. This couldn't be Paradise, could it?

"Why is it so…" Vines started.

"Run down," Fox finished, then shrugged. "Maybe its just to hide what's inside?"

They all shrugged and then started off for it, not seeing any guards or soldiers posted.

They reached maybe 10 ft. from the doors when things materialized out of nowhere in front of them, wielding articulately made swords, axes, clubs, etc. These weapons were almost energy-like, giving off a blue glow around the edges and pulsating with streaks of yellow inside. The kids fell into stances quickly and prepared themselves. They'd never had a real fight, only spars while training, and even those were rare.

The things before them, clad in pure black armour with a neon blue at the joints, were small in number, being only 6. They readied themselves now and then 2 came at the kids first, swinging their respective sword and mace. Guardian threw himself in front of all of them and thrust his arms forward, knocking palm-first into the sword-wielder's chest. He stumbled a little, then swung, causing the boy to jerk back before he lost a hand. He swung multiple times, each quick and effortless, as if the sword was weightless. Each time, the tall siren tried his best to dodge and hit back with his fists or lanky legs; at one point he sucker punched the guy and caused a minor dent in his helmet.

Historia was next, using the talons on her bird-like feet to poke and prod at the soldier before her, toying with him as a method of distraction. She flew just above his head, her wings batting at the ground and causing quite the dust pickup. She tried sticking a claw through his armour, but it hardly dented it, mostly scratching it. Vines joined in and used his plant powers to create a web of vines and thorns, trapping the soldier's arms and legs. They ripped at the restraints, breaking free quickly, and Fox leaped into action.

She bit at them, dashed around them, even launched herself at them to try and keep them at bay while the others did their job. She dazed one and it led to him passing out with the others' help. The other 4 soldiers had disappeared, gone without a sound or trace. They fought the final one standing until he too lay on the ground. They then looked at each other, nodded, and moved towards the large double doors.

They opened with a loud creak.

Sounds of horror, screams, cries of help, and groaning filled all of their poor ears.

"What is this?" Historia asked softly.

There was a single voice, one that belonged to none of the children.

"Welcome to Paradise, kids."