Alone Hour

Chapter 6: Krakniks

The word "Kraknik" is an ancient word for "immortal warrior". Thousands of years ago, Krakniks lived alongside humans. In tune with nature, they were elementalists. Humans and Krakniks lived together in harmony, until Lord Baforgoth banned Krakniks from living with humans.

Exiled to the mountains, they became more attached to stone than any other element. They evolved themselves into human forms, their Kraknik spirits held within the frail human body. As they integrated themselves back into the human society without being detected, their descendants also inherited their power. Not knowing their own powers, they were sent off to school like other children, and lived normal lives. The tests revealed who we were. It was why we were chosen to test the Vortex. All 6 of us were Krakniks.

I started to regain consciousness, and rose to my feet. So did Abby. "I knew it." I whirled around. There was samurai, grinning. But it's not a samurai. It's Victor. "Wow," I managed. "how did you know-" Victor raised a finger. "Quiet," he said. "Our talking sounds like metallic screeching to the others." I nodded. "Since you two already know where we came from, you should also know that fire triggers our Kraknik form." whispered Victor. "To be honest, I don't even remember bring the two of you here." That was totally unexpected. "So..." said Abby, breaking the tension. "Why do you look like a samurai, Victor?" Victor laughed. "Its my form, of course. I mean, look at yourselves." I found a mirror next to a lethal looking sword. I picked it up and looked in.

What looked back at me wasn't human. It was a knight, with a visor glowing blue. The helmet was completely made up of rocks, and as I looked, it seemed I was made of rock head to toe. I was wearing some very impressive looking armor, and I have to say, I was impressed. "Your soul weapon's on your back." said Victor, also looking pretty impressed. I reached behind and felt a handle. I pulled, and a spear appeared in my hand. It was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. It glowed blue, and its blade was sharp. "Put both of your hands on it." commanded Victor. I put both hands on it, and it immediately shape-shifted into a slim sword. "Hmm," said Victor. "A longsword. I thought so.

Abby, your turn." Abby's form was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. Victor and I had rough rocks for armor, but her armor was made of smooth stone. Her eyes glowed pink, and she wore a hat with a feather in it. She reached back and pulled out a bow. It glowed magnificently, and when she twisted it, it grew blades on both sides. "Like I expected." Victor remarked. She smiled. "Lets go tell the others then," I say. Both Krakniks nod. With that, the 3 of us leaped into the air.

It was amazing, leaping. It was like I was flying. In no time, we reached the dark room. I saw Michael and Betty, just sitting there. Suddenly, almost instinctively, Victor drew his katana. "Wait-" I tried to say, but it was no use. Abby had drawn her bow and already had an arrow loaded. I didn't understand, until I felt it. A wanting. I had drawn my sword as well. I wanted to destroy them. Hatred, burning hatred for humans. A need to turn them into one of us. The scent filled in my nose. My mind was losing, instinct was winning. The 3 of us approached them. A voice I no longer recognized spoke. "Die, human."