You want Legalese? I'll give you Legalese! The characters of Kragok and Sgt. Rykor and the concept of the Dark Legion are all (c) to Archie Comics Inc. The character of Knuckles the Echidna is (c) to the Sega Corporation (even though he doesn't really make it into this fanfic, he is mentioned a couple of times). The characters of Syna-Eve, Gavin, Jax, and any other ones you don't recognize are (c) to me, or to someone else who is not you, so don't go using them without permission or . . . I'll NEVER be your best friend! >:P Now, let the flames begin! Title: Friends Forever Author: Syna-Eve, a.k.a. Ru Griffin Quote of the fanfic: "They press their lips against you, And you love the lies they say And I tried so hard to reach you But you're falling anyway . . ." --Goo-Goo Dolls, Acoustic #3 ~ Prologue: Bravest Fallen ~ The child clung to the blanket with a viselike grip. Her eyes were wide as she watched the comings and goings of the medics. She heard, but did not understand, their short, sharp words. "Dead on arrival." "Poor child . . ." "Any chance?" "Nope, they're gone." It suddenly grew very quiet in the med-tent. "It's the Grandmaster," someone whispered. A tall figure dressed in a dark cloak came into the child's sight, accompanied closely by a second figure. He stood in the center, looking exhausted and haggard. "Did any of them . . .?" he asked. "None, sir," said one of the medics softly. "All dead." "All?" said the Grandmaster. He seemed to crumple. "Oh, no . . ." He bent his head, putting his face in his hands. His shoulders shook. "All of them . . . all of my elite . . ." After a moment, he seemed to pull himself together and lifted his eyes to the surrounding medics. His shoulders straightened, his expression hardened. "Their . . . bodies . . . are to be treated with the greatest honor." "Yes, Grandmaster," said one medic. He and three others bowed and left. The Grandmaster turned and caught sight of the child, sitting alone. "Who is she?" he asked the second one. "That is Syna-Eve," the second, a Legionnaire with a faceplate, replied solemnly. "Ana-Li and Toren's daughter." The Grandmaster nodded, closing his eyes. He walked towards Syna-Eve and laid his hand on her head. Syna-Eve looked up at him, eyes wide. The Grandmaster gazed down at her with an unreadable emotion. To the medics' shock, he knelt and placed one hand in hers. His hardened, angry eyes met her innocent green ones. Something passed between the two, and the Grandmaster nodded slightly. Syna bent her head, burying her face in the blanket. The Grandmaster stood turned to the one who had accompanied him in. "This," he said, voice shaking with rage, "could have been prevented. If they'd listened, Rykor, instead of disobeying my orders . . . then they'd . . ." He clenched his fists. "Come. We have preparations to make." He whirled and left the tent, Rykor following closely behind. ~ Chapter One: A Friendship Formed ~ The young echidna watched as three others, slightly older than herself, chased one another through the tents. Her gaze was intent, but there was a vagueness about the way she turned her head to follow them, as though she were barely in control of her own body. The other children turned towards her, feeling her gaze. They snickered, pointing at her. She heard whispered phrases with ugly names attached to her own, but said nothing. One edged towards her, then, with a giggle, darted forward and snatched her bangs, giving them a good yank before running back to the group. Although she was nearly pulled from her seat, the girl remained silent. The teasing didn't faze her. It happened too often for it to trouble her anymore. The group, sensing a challenge, ran forward again, standing in a half-circle around her. They looked down at her, a mixture of contempt and curiosity on their faces. "Why don't she talk?" asked one. "'Cuz it's Syna-Eve," another replied matter-of-factly. "She never talks no more." "Yeah," the third agreed. "She's too stupid to talk, anyhow." "A big baby," the second jeered. Syna-Eve bent her head, closing her eyes and covering her ears. She trembled, knowing that they wouldn't be happy with name-calling for too long. "Is she deaf or somethin'?" the first wondered. "Nope." The second shook his head. "She just don't talk." "Bet I could make her talk," said the first. "How?" The third looked skeptical. "Like this." The first gripped the back of her robe and pulled her to her feet. Keeping one hand firmly on her robe, he used his other hand to grab her arm. "She's gotta make *some* noise," he said, twisting it behind her. Syna remained silent, clenching her teeth. The boy twisted it further. Syna felt her bones grate against one another, but still said nothing. She wouldn't let them know they hurt her. Disgusted, the boy yanked her arm back as hard as her could. "Hey," said the second. "Ease up. Don't break her arm or nothin'." "Yeah," the third agreed. "You don't gotta hurt her bad. Stop it already." "No way," the first boy growled. "I told ya I'm gonna make her talk an' I'm gonna make her talk!" Furious, he kicked at Syna-Eve's legs. She still said nothing. "Okay," said the boy. He whirled her around so that he met her eye to eye and raised a fist. "I bet you'll make noise with a broke nose!" Suddenly, he was knocked down from behind. He released Syna as he fell to the ground. She watched as her tormentor and a newcomer scuffled. "You leave her alone!" cried the newcomer, striking and snarling. "Yeah?" the other boy replied. "And who're you? Her bodyguard?" "Yeah!" the new boy shot back. "I am!" He pinned the first with little effort and raised his own fist. "Now," he growled, "are you gonna leave her alone or do I hafta make you?" The boy looked around. His friends had already fled, and there was no one around. Nothing embarrassing about a strategic retreat. He glanced up at the new boy's angry eyes and nodded. "I'll leave. Let me up." The new boy released him and watched, grinning, as he ran off. He then turned to Syna-Eve. "Are you all right?" he asked her. Syna-Eve backed away, eyes wide. "Hey, hey, it's okay." The boy held up his hands. "I'm not like them. I'm not here to hurt you." Syna shook her head wildly. "I know you don't believe me, but it's the truth." He held out one hand. "My name's Gavin. I'm a friend." He smiled. "A good guy." Syna looked into his eyes. They were pale blue and sparkled. And, in some unexplainable way, Syna knew that she could trust him. She placed her hand into his and smiled back. "There," said Gavin. "Now, I know who you are, Syna-Eve. Are you all right?" She nodded, opening her mouth to thank him, but all that came out was a strangled gasp. She shut her mouth again quickly and turned away. Gavin rocked back on his heels. "You really can't talk, huh?" Syna shook her head slowly, tapping her throat with two fingers. "Well, that's okay." Gavin grinned. "We'll get along just fine without words. Besides,"-he leaned down a bit, though he wasn't much taller than her-"I have a feeling that in order to talk, you just need someone to listen." "Watch," said Gavin, sticking out his tongue at Syna-Eve. He crossed his eyes. Syna shook with silent laughter, leaning her head on Gavin's knee. Gavin grinned. "How about this one?" He rolled his eyes back into his head and narrowed his eyes, making a snarling face. "Who am I?" Syna thought for a moment, then her eyes lit up. She tugged on Gavin's sleeve and pounded a fist into her palm, her signal for Sergeant Rykor. "Right!" Gavin applauded. Syna stood up, pointing to herself. "Go ahead," replied Gavin. Syna thought, then grinned. She pulled her hood over her face and squeezed her left eye shut. She curled her left hand into a claw, sneering. Gavin laughed. "Lord Kragok!" Syna nodded enthusiastically, clapping her hands. She sat down on the floor, leaning against Gavin's knee again. She pointed to him. "My turn?" He scratched his chin. "Okay . . . try this." He twisted his dreadlocks into loose knots and flexed his muscles. Syna held up her hands, a sign for the Great Dimitri. Gavin nodded, undoing his dreadlocks. "You're too good at this game." She smiled proudly, pointing to herself. "Yep, your turn." Gavin watched attentively. Syna made a gesture. "Not a person? A sentence?" Gavin frowned. "Okay . . . umm . . . three words . . ." Syna hesitated, then pointed to her eye, her heart, and to Gavin in quick succession. Gavin bit his lip, then it's meaning slowly dawned on him. A smile spread over his face. He reached down and scooped Syna into his arms. He held her against him, and she buried her face in his shoulder, smiling and crying at the same time. "I love you, too," Gavin whispered, stroking her dreadlocks. "And I'll always be here for you, no matter what." Syna looked up at him, then traced an x across his chest. "Yes, I promise." Gavin hugged her. The two stayed like that for a long time, content in the knowledge that they had finally found a friend. "Try again," said Gavin. "Deep breath. Ready?" Syna nodded, inhaling. She opened her mouth and tried to speak. A squeaky, strained sound came from her throat. "Come on," said Gavin, crossing his fingers. "Gah . . . vaa . . . nnn . . ." Syna managed. "Mm . . . doon . . . et . . ." Exhausted, she exhaled the rest of the air in a rush, panting. "Awesome!" Gavin hugged her. "You're getting it!" He swung her around. "We'll have you talking in no time." Syna-Eve laughed. It was a breathy, strangled laugh, but it was a laugh. And it was only the beginning. Syna-Eve and Gavin sat together in the mess tent. Sergeant Rykor strode among the tables, tapping his club against one palm. His expression, as usual, was a disapproving one. Gavin rolled his eyes at the Rykor for Syna's benefit. Syna giggled. She was talking quite well now, but only when Gavin was the only one listening. When other people were around, she was as mute as she had been before. Suddenly, a metallic arm tipped with three sharp claws came down between the two. They looked up into the stern face of the Grandmaster of the Dark Legion, Kragok. "Trouble?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. Gavin recovered quickly. "No, sir," he replied, saluting. "Good." Kragok turned and moved on, gray cloak swirling about him. Once he was out of earshot, Syna-Eve sagged. "He's kind of creepy, isn't he?" she whispered to Gavin. "Yeah," Gavin agreed. "But he's the leader. His father fought against the Guardians, you know?" "Really?" Syna-Eve's eyes widened. Like the rest of the Dark Legion, she knew about the Guardians, the echidnas who had banished them from Mobius to the dimensional pocket zone they lived in now. "Wow. Has Kragok ever done that?" "No, not yet." Gavin took a mouthful of food. "But he says we'll have our chance really soon." "Me fight a Guardian?" Syna shook her head. "No way." "Come on." Gavin lifted an eyebrow. "You're strong enough." "Nuh-uh." Syna shook her head again. They were so intent on their conversation, that they didn't notice the two figures headed towards them. Two echidnas sat down on either side of them. Syna cringed, seeing that it was Bren and Vanden, her two major tormentors. She felt her throat tighten. Bren leaned over, grinning at Syna-Eve. "Well, well, it's the mute and her little bodyguard." Gavin snarled, putting a protective arm around Syna's trembling shoulder. "What do you two muscle-heads want?" "Listen to this guy," said Vanden. He glared at Gavin. "Why don't you show a little more respect, punk?" "Why don't you yiff off?" Gavin replied, not missing a beat. "Why you little"-Vanden lunged at Gavin, growling. Gavin shoved Syna under the table and leapt at Vanden. The two hit the floor, clawing and snarling. Bren joined them, throwing punches. They roiled across the ground, a mass of arms and legs. Several Legionnaires got up and attempted to pull them apart. Kragok rushed in, hauled Gavin up by his hood, kicking and struggling, while Rykor grabbed Bren and Vanden by the arms. The sergeant held them in an iron grip, glaring at the two. "All right," he snarled, "who started it?" Bren and Vanden pointed to Gavin, who pointed back at them. Kragok sighed, looking frustrated. "All of you, in my tent, now." Syna-Eve watched as the three of them were marched out of the mess tent. She waited until the tent resumed it's usual clatter, then crawled out from under the table and followed them. Kragok sat behind his desk, gazing at the three youngsters in front of him. He eyed Bren and Vanden. "You two, leave. I'm going to keep an eye on you both, though. Any more fighting and I'll have you flogged, understood?" The two nodded and hastily ran out of the tent. Kragok then turned to Gavin. "Now, you, Gavin . . . what's been happening with you, lately? You're not the fighting type. I could expect as much from those two"-he nodded towards the door-"because they haven't half a brain cell between them. But you . . ." He shook his head. "You're a smart kid, Gavin. You could outwit them and be out of there before they could blink. This isn't news to you, is it?" Gavin shook his head. "And what worries me is that this isn't an isolated incident. You've been using brawn instead of brain for several months now. What have you been up to that you can't talk your way out of a situation?" Gavin didn't reply. Kragok drummed his fingers on the desk impatiently. "Well?" Syna-Eve burst through the tent flap. She rushed to Gavin's side and clung to his hand. "Please . . ." she gasped. "Please, Lord Kragok, it wasn't . . . it wasn't his fault . . . he was just trying to protect me." Kragok stood. "Syna-Eve?" His eyes widened and he came around the desk to her, kneeling down. "You're speaking," he said in a flat, disbelieving voice. "Yes, sir," Syna replied steadily. "But, how . . .?" Kragok looked utterly shell-shocked. "Gavin taught me," Syna-Eve replied, squeezing her friend's hand. "Gavin . . . taught . . ." Kragok blinked and stood, looking down on Gavin and Syna. He raised an eyebrow. "So . . . certain things are becoming clearer." He walked back behind his desk. "Gavin, I apologize for the tongue-lashing. I see your intentions now. However, I would prefer that instead of fighting, you come to me. I dislike squabbling in the ranks." "I will, sir," Gavin replied, sounding relieved. "Very well. You may go. And Gavin?" "Yes, sir?" "Thank-you for helping Syna." Gavin bowed, then turned and walked out the door, hand-in-hand with Syna-Eve. Kragok watched them go, a small smile touching his lips. "Then what happened?" Syna-Eve asked. She gazed up at Gavin, head resting on his knee. "The old wise woman went down into the field," said Gavin, eyes alight. "And she looked, and looked and looked, but could not find one grain of rice left. She turned to Alissa-Me and said, 'How is it that you have accomplished this task? For one to find a thousand grains of rice scattered in a field in a single hour is truly a great thing.' And Alissa-Me replied, 'First you must grant me my freedom, old woman. Then shall I tell you my secrets.' "The old wise woman shook her head. 'Nay, for two further tasks lie ahead. Solve these, and I shall grant your freedom. Fail, and I shall have your life.' And she gave her the next task. She cast a golden bead into the shimmering desert, and gave Alissa-M e but one short hour to find it. "Alissa-Me held the eagle's father to the wind, waving it once, twice, thrice, and in moments, the Sky King appeared. 'Sky King,' said Alissa-Me, 'once I saved your life and in gratitude you swore to repay the debt. I call on your favor now.' " 'What is it you wish?' the Sky-King asked. 'Ask and it shall be done.' Alissa-Me pointed to the desert. 'In this great stretch of sand lies a tiny golden bead. Fetch it for me within this hour, and the debt shall be repaid. But make haste, for time grow s short.' "And the Sky King took to the air and called down all the birds of the world into the shimmering desert to search. They came and came until the sound of fluttering wings could be heard all around, and landed in the sand, scratching and pecking. For the go od part of the hour they searched, then the sharp-eyed owl found it and carried it to the Sky King. "The Sky King presented it to Alissa-Me. 'Our debt is repaid,' said the Sky King, and he and his brethren vanished into the calm blue sky. "Soon, the old wise woman returned to find the task complete. Disbelieving, she took the bead and examined it, and found that indeed, it was the same she had cast into the desert. She turned to Alissa-Me and said, 'How is it that you have accomplished thi s task? For to find a golden bead in the burning desert in a single hour is a truly great thing.' And Alissa-Me replied, 'First you must grant me my freedom, old woman. Then I shall tell you my secrets.' "The old wise woman shook her head. 'Nay, for one further task lies ahead. Solve this, and I shall grant your freedom. Fail, and I shall have your life.'" Gavin yawned. "That's enough for tonight." "Oh . . ." said Syna-Eve, sounding disappointed. "Do you have to stop there? I want to find out what the third task is." "If I don't stop there I'll never stop," Gavin grinned. "There's still so much more to tell. How Alissa-Me gains her freedom from the old wise woman, and finds the mighty water dragon, and outwits the protector of the Golden City . . ." "Gaviiiiin . . ." Syna pouted. "Please don't stop!" "I told you, I have to. Besides, it's time you were in bed." "But I'm not tired . . ." "Of course not." Gavin rolled his eyes. "Go on, into bed." "Not until you finish the story." Syna folded her arms stubbornly. "If you don't go to bed by the time I count to three, I'll do something not nice," Gavin warned. "One . . . two . . ."-Syna didn't budge-"three!" He pounced on Syna-Eve and proceeded to tickle her mercilessly. Syna squirmed, shrieking with laughter. "Gavin!" she squeaked between giggles. "Let up! Come on! Pleeease?" "Say 'uncle' and go to bed," Gavin replied, still tickling, "or I'll keep this up all night!" "Uncle!" Syna gasped, and, true to his word, Gavin released her. "To bed," he said firmly, pointing to her cot. "All right," said Syna-Eve resignedly. She climbed under the sheets and laid her head on the pillow. "Good night," said Gavin softly, brushing back her bangs and planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. "'Night," Syna replied, already beginning to doze off. "Love you." "I love you too." Gavin left the tent, closing the flap behind him. ~ Chapter Two: A Friendship Lost ~ "Gavin, you can't leave me . . ." Syna-Eve felt tears threatening at the corners of her eyes and wiped them away, stunned and hurt. Gavin had just told her that he was going to begin medical training-and he'd have to remain separate from the rest of the Legion so that he could focus, Kragok's orders. "I can't help it, Syn. Besides, I'll still see you sometimes. And it's only a couple of years." Gavin put an arm around her waist. Syna leaned into his side with a sigh. "A lot can happen in a year," she murmured. "People change . . ." "I know," Gavin held her close. "It's tearing me up inside, too, Syn, but I have to. The Legion's short on medics, and according to Kragok I'm right for the job. I need this training." "But you're my best friend! What will I do without you?" She began to cry. "I need you." Gavin held her at arms' length. "You can't rely on me all the time. You have to learn to stand on your own for awhile." "What about your promise? That you'd always be there for me, no matter what? Was that a lie?" "Syna . . ." He tried to take her hand, but she pulled away. "You're just like everyone else," Syna cried. "You stay for a little while and then you leave . . . I hate you!" The words struck Gavin like a physical blow. He swayed on his feet. "You can't mean that . . ." he whispered. When he received no answer, he tried again, a desperate, pleading tone in his voice. "Syna, please, tell me you don't mean it . . ." When Syna still didn't reply, he clenched his fists. "Syna, did you ever stop and think about something? About why I stayed with you all this time?" Syna-Eve shook her head. Gavin took a deep breath. "I needed you. I needed you as much as you needed me. I was so alone and afraid . . . and when I saw those guys hurting you that day, something snapped. Here." He touched his chest. "And I knew that I couldn't let what happened t o me happen to you. We both needed a friend, Syna. And still do." He took her arm gently and pulled her towards him. He titled her chin gently so that he could look into her eyes. "I love you, Syna-Eve. More than anything. And nothing . . . not even a hundred years of being apart . . . will ever change that." "Then why do you have to leave?" "The Legion needs me." "I need you more!" "I know, Syna, I know . . ." Gavin held her close. "I'll make time to see you. As much as I can. But you've gotta promise me something." "Anything . . ." "Be brave, okay? Don't . . . limit yourself to me. There are plenty of decent people in the Legion. Try and meet some." "I'll try." Syna leaned her head against his chest. "I'm so sorry . . . I didn't mean it when I . . ." "It's all right." "I love you, Gavin." "I love you, too, Syna." Syna-Eve sat alone in the mess tent, eating slowly. She didn't look up as Bren sat down beside her. "Well, little Syna's sitting alone today," he sniggered. Syna didn't reply. "Where's Gavin? Did he get tired of you?" "Go away, Bren," said Syna patiently. "You need company?" he asked. "No." Bren placed a hand on her knee. "I think you do." "Get your hand off of me, Bren, before I cut it off." "Oh, I see . . . too high and mighty for the rest of the Legion." "No. I just don't like you." "I bet I can change your opinion." Bren grinned. Syna-Eve stood, leaving her food unfinished, and started to walk away. She didn't get far before Vanden stepped in front of her. "If you don't like Bren, maybe you'd prefer someone with a little more class, eh?" Syna rolled her eyes. "NO." Vanden grabbed her wrist. "Maybe you don't understand. Without Gavin around to protect you"-he broke off suddenly as Rykor approached. The sergeant fixed Vanden with a steely gaze that traveled from Syna-Eve's entrapped wrist to Vanden's face and back again. "Trouble, Vanden?" His prosthetic eye glowed softly. Vanden hastily released Syna's wrist. "No, sir." "Glad to hear it." Rykor caught Syna's eye, lifting an eyebrow. Syna gave a brief nod, and Rykor turned away to resume his patrol. Syna started to walk again, but Vanden gripped her shoulder, leaning forward. "I'd watch out, if I were you . . ." he whispered. "I don't think so," Syna whispered back, breaking his grasp and walking away. It was later that night when Syna walked through the tents, headed towards her own. She hummed, trying to keep her mind off of Gavin. Suddenly, someone grabbed her from behind. Strong arms pinned her legs and arms; she felt herself being pressed to someone's body. "I told you to watch out," said a voice by her ear. "Vanden . . ." Syna-Eve snarled. "Give the kid a prize," Vanden announced. Syna watched as several other Legionnaires emerged from the shadows. She recognized them. Bren was among them, so was one with bionic arms, Jarin, and a third, Ziv who had a reputation as one of the best fighters in the Legion. "Meet my friends, Syna," said Vanden. "They're all here for the same thing I am . . . after all, you should share with your friends." He raised his voice slightly. "What do you say, guys? You want some?" Syna caught his meaning instantly and shuddered. "You sick son of Edmund . . ." "Come on, guys, let's take her to our tent. We can't be ungracious hosts, now can we?" The others sniggered as Vanden tossed her over his shoulder. Syna inhaled to call for help, but the old fear welled up and her throat tightened. She clenched her teeth, realizing how helpless she was . . . They took her to Vanden's tent, but Vanden did not release her. Instead, he handed her to Bren, who pinned her arms and legs again. Vanden gripped Syna-Eve's bangs, pulling her head back. "Still don't make noise, eh?" He smirked as Syna struggled against his grasp. "Why don't you show her some hospitality, Jarin?" Jarin chuckled, drawing back his fist. He began to pummel her stomach like a punching bag, hard, sharp jabs into her unprotected abdomen. Syna winced, struggling harder, but Vanden had her arms and legs pinned. She gasped for breath, only to have it knoc ked from her with the next punch. Jarin seemed to be enjoying himself. With every punch his grin grew wider. Syna closed her eyes against the cruelty, tears leaking out from beneath the lids. *Gavin . . .* she thought desperately, but she knew that he wasn't around to help her now. But even he hadn't counted on this happening . . . or he wouldn't have left. Jarin at last left off, backing away. They stood, waiting for Vanden's next prompt. Vanden nodded to Bren. "Put her on the cot," he ordered. "Time for some fun." Syna redoubled her efforts to break free, managing to kick Bren in the chin, making him loosen his grip. She twisted away from him and brushed past the others, who stood, stunned for a moment, before giving chase. She dashed out of the tent, not knowing where she was going, precisely, and not really caring. Her eyes stung with tears of rage and humiliation, and her throat was closed so tightly that she could scarcely breathe. She saw Kragok's tent and darted inside unthinkingly, gasping silently. Once inside, she collapsed to the floor, chest heaving. She was vaguely aware of someone shaking her and loud shouting going on all around her, but she paid it little heed, slipping gently into blackness. "Syna-Eve?" She heard the voice as though through molasses, and struggled to open her eyes. Her fists clenched, she summoned up all her strength and managed to crack open her lids. To her shock, she saw Kragok leaning over her. "Syna-Eve, are you alright?" She nodded, sitting up. She winced as she felt where Jarin had punched her. "What happened?" Kragok frowned. "You collapsed in my tent last night, and you've got several bruises on your body . . . did someone hurt you?" Syna-Eve opened her mouth to tell him about Vanden and the others, but nothing came out at all. "Can you speak?" A overwhelming sense of shame overcame her, and she buried her face in her hands, sobbing noiselessly. She really was helpless . . . a helpless baby like they'd all said. She felt Kragok touch her shoulder gently. "It's Gavin, isn't it?" he asked softly. "That's why you can't speak." Syna nodded miserably. "Would you be able to speak if I brought him here?" She shrugged. "We'll try," said Kragok. "I'll have him brought here. But this can't go on, you understand? Gavin is a very talented Legionnaire, and we need skills like his in the med-tents. I can't have him run in as translator every five minutes." She nodded sadly, tracing a slow circle on the blankets. "All right." Kragok stood and walked out. Moments later, Gavin rushed in. "Syna!" He caught sight of her on the bed and grimaced. "Oh, Syn . . ." He walked over slowly, kneeling by the bed. He examined her bandages. "Syn . . . what did they do? Who was it?" His eyes narrowed. "I'll kill them." "I wouldn't go so far, lad," said Kragok, stepping back into the tent. "I'll deal with them, whoever they are." "Well, Syna?" Gavin turned to her. "Who was it?" Syna-Eve took his hand between her own and closed her eyes. " . . . Jarin . . . Vanden . . . Bren . . . and Ziv . . ." Her shoulders shook, and she pressed his hand to her forehead. "Don't leave me, Gavin, please, don't leave me . . ." she whispered. Gavin sat on the bed beside her and drew her towards him, holding her gently. "It's okay," he told her. "I'm here now." He held her while she cried until, exhausted, she drifted off to sleep. He brushed her bangs back from her face and kissed her lightly on the forehead. Kragok tapped him on the shoulder and nodded towards the exit. Gavin followed him outside. "Sir, I can't leave her now," said Gavin immediately. "She still needs me." Kragok sighed patiently. "Gavin, she's twelve. She should be old enough to take care of herself, at least on a minimal basis. But she's dependent on you, for everything, like a child." He shook his head. "I wanted you to help her, not . . . do everything for her." "Sir, I met her when she was nine. She could barely walk and didn't talk, and not a soul in the whole Legion cared about her. She *is* still a child, at least mentally. She needs someone to care for her, and I'm the only one she trusts." "You will finish your training," said Kragok firmly. "I have to think of the needs of the Legion." "And Syna?" Gavin demanded. "She needs help! Are you just going to abandon her?" Kragok's eyes narrowed. "May I remind you that you are addressing your superior?" "My apologies, sir," Gavin replied stiffly. "I meant no disrespect. But surely you understand my concern for her . . ." "Better than even you know." Kragok closed his eyes. "Your parents, Gavin . . . they're dead, aren't they? Like Syna-Eve's?" Gavin nodded. "I know how these things go." Kragok's eyes opened, and he placed a hand on Gavin's shoulder. "Gavin, you're doing her more harm than good. You're not letting her learn on her own. She's smart, like you. If you give her some room, then you'll see. She'll grow and become stronger for it. I don't mean you should abandon her completely, just . . . stand down. Do you understand?" Gavin took a deep breath and nodded. "It's all my fault, sir . . . I told her that she should try to meet other people, and this happens . . ." He clenched his hands into fists. "Don't blame yourself. If you start blaming yourself for her problems, then you'll never stop." Kragok sighed. "I can't afford anything more than to keep an eye on her. Too many things are happening right now to pay special attention to one girl who can' t defend herself." He glanced at Gavin. "Return to the med-tents. Continue your training. And don't worry about Syna-Eve." Gavin hesitated. He and Kragok stared at each other for a moment. At last, Gavin looked away. "As you wish, Grandmaster," he said, bowing, then left. ~ Chapter Three: A Friendship Tried ~ Syna-Eve sat in her tent, busy working on a malfunctioning blaster. She had a lot of them to fix-the invasion that Kragok had spoken of for so long was finally starting to happen and he wanted every weapon functioning perfectly. Like all the Dark Legion, she was technologically inclined, and they needed everyone helping if the invasion was going to be a success. One of the wires sparked, hitting her finger, and Syna cursed, sticking her burnt finger into her mouth. "That's not very sanitary, you know," said a voice behind her. Syna-Eve whirled to find herself staring into an unfamiliar face. An average-sized Legionnaire stood in front of her. His fur was pale gray and hung long over his face, covering one of his eyes. The other eye was prosthetic, surrounded by a faceplate that extended over nearly half of his face. Two of his dreadlocks wer e also robotic. "Who are you?" she asked, frowning. The Legionnaire brushed back his bangs, and Syna caught sight of a brilliant blue eye. "Don't tell me you don't recognize me, Syn," said Gavin, grinning. Syna gave a cry of joy and rushed into her friend's arms. "Gavin!" He hugged her tightly, laughing. "You're short," he said, ruffling her bangs teasingly. "You grew," Syna replied, looking up at him wide-eyed. "And what happened to you?" she touched the side of his face, where cold metal met soft flesh. "An . . . accident," Gavin looked vaguely uncomfortable. "One of the patients was less than happy with his new arms and . . . well, he went a little crazy. I wasn't even the one who performed the operation, but . . ." He sighed. "He may not have liked th em, but he sure knew how to use them." "Oh, Gavin, I'm sorry . . ." "Don't be," said Gavin. He tapped his robotic eye, and Syna saw that his arms were also robotic. "This helps a lot when I'm analyzing injuries, and I can see very well from it." He shrugged. "What about you? How have things been going for you?" "Oh . . ." Syn looked down. "Not bad, I suppose. I can't complain. Jax takes good care of me." "Who?" Gavin raised an eyebrow. "Well . . ." Syna looked edgy, refusing to meet Gavin's eyes, "when you left, the other Legionnaires . . . they . . . they thought I'd be easy prey again now that you were gone and they were right, too. It was just like before you came. And then Jax . . . he stopped them. He protected me, like you. And he's kind and sweet and . . . oh, Gavin, please don't be angry with me! I missed you so much, and no one was there to help me until Jax came and I . . ." Gavin cut her off. "It's fine, Syn, I'm not angry with you for meeting new people; I suggested it, remember?" He smiled gently. "I'm just glad you're okay." He patted her on the back and she winced, sucking in her breath sharply. Gavin's expression quick ly changed to one of concern. "What's the matter?" "Nothing," Syna replied quickly. "I just . . ." she trailed off, seeing the skepticism in his eyes. "It's just a couple of bruises," she muttered, lamely. "Do you mind if I take a look?" Gavin asked. "Yes!" said Syna sharply, then, "No . . . well, not really. I guess you can if you want to." "I think I will." Syna-Eve moved her dreadlocks out of the way and Gavin undid the back of her Legionnaire uniform, pulling it back from her shoulders and brushing aside her fur. He gasped. Syna's upper back was a mass of bruises and cuts, some recent, some less so, in various stages of healing. Every bit of skin was yellowed or purple and black. Gavin couldn't believe his eyes. "Syna," he said softly, "what on Mobius happened to you?" "I told you," Syna replied, pulling her robe back up. "It's nothing." "It's not nothing," Gavin said. "You're one big bruise back there." "It *is* nothing," Syna-Eve insisted. "And it's none of your business." "Syna, I . . ." but Syna cut him off. "You'd better leave," she said, her voice taking on a coldness that he'd never heard from her before. "Jax will be back soon." "But, Syna . . ." Gavin's voice was puzzled. "Leave!" Syna said sharply, and Gavin cringed as though she'd struck him. "All right," he said, in a low, hurt voice. "I'm going." He left without a glance backwards, out the door and back into the camp. When he was gone, Syna shivered, sitting down hard on her bed. She hated herself for doing that to him, but she didn't want him here when Jax got back. He'd be angry to find her talking to someone else, and she didn't want Gavin hurt. It wasn't long before Jax came . . . Gavin sat up in bed, reading. At least, trying to read. His eyes moved over the same sentence, over and over and over again. He couldn't concentrate. Frustrated, he threw the book to the ground, putting his head in his hands. He massaged his temples, fee ling a headache coming on. He couldn't believe the changes that had come over Syna-Eve. She was so distant, frightened of something that she wouldn't tell him about. All that time he'd stayed with her, trying to help her from being scared all the time. And now . . . Suddenly, someone opened the tent-flap. Gavin looked up as Syna walked in. At first she seemed steady, then she stumbled and swayed. Gavin got up and caught her before she fell. He reached over and turned up the lantern beside his bed. In the eerie, flickering shadows he could see the bruises and the blood on her face. She shuddered against him, and he could feel her heart pounding, fast and frightened, like a bird in a cage. He held her carefully, as though she might break. "Syna . . . what happened?" Syna leaned her head on his shoulder, tears soaking Gavin's robe. "It was Jax," she whispered. "He . . . he . . ." Sobbing, she told him. Everything, from the beginning. Gavin listened, growing angrier and angrier with every word she spoke. When at last she was done, he clenched his fists. "I'll rip him apart," he snarled. "I'll tear his heart out and"- "No!" Syna cried. Gavin glared at her, eyes blazing. "Please," said Syna. She met his eyes, unafraid. "Don't do anything. Don't even let Jax know that you know. If you do . . . he'll make it worse for me. He's the best fighter in the Legion. He'll kill you, and if anything happened to you, I don't . . . oh, Gavin, I don't know what I'd do . . ." Gavin felt his rage cool, and he hugged her tightly, shivering. "Syna, you've been hurt enough for this lifetime. You don't deserve to hurt anymore. I can't just stand by and let this happen-I love you." "And I love you, Gavin, but . . ." Syn turned her head away slightly. "I love Jax, too." Gavin drew back slightly. "Syna . . ." She searched his eyes for forgiveness, and found only cold disbelief. "I'm sorry . . . Gavin, please, you're like a brother to me, my best friend . . . I don't want to lose that. But Jax . . ." "Let me guess," said Gavin bitterly. "He's less of a friend and more of a lover, right?" Syna wrapped her arms around herself. "I don't know what he is. All I know is what he does . . ." She closed her eyes. "He hurts me Gavin. Like you promised me you never would. I don't know why I love him, but I do." "Syna-Eve, I know you, and that's not you talking," said Gavin. His eyes narrowed. "That's Jax." "You haven't seen me in two years," said Syna-Eve nastily. "How would you know what I'm like?" Gavin opened his mouth to make a cutting reply, then closed it again. "No, Syna." "No, what?" "I'm not going to do this with you. All this fighting . . . I can't even insult you!" He shook his head, chuckling. "Okay . . . I'll promise not to go after Jax . . . for now." "Thank-you, Gavin." She hugged him hard. "You're such a good friend to me." Gavin hugged her back, but he couldn't suppress the bitterness that arose, unbidden in his mind. *A friend? After all we've been through together, Syna, is that all I am to you? . . . * Syna-Eve lay in the darkness of her tent, trying to sleep. She was exhausted. Every part of her body ached. Even her hair hurt, and she didn't see how that was possible. She pulled the sheets around herself, trying to get comfortable. She slowly drifted off, sinking deeper into velvet sleep. She sighed and turned over. Her thoughts melted into each other, forming half-dreams in her mind. Suddenly, the tent flap opened. Dim light shone into Syna's eyes and jolted her out of her rest. She blinked and squinted at the figure silhouetted in the doorway. "Hello, Syna," said a pleasant voice. "Oh," Syna sat up, wincing a bit. "Hello, Jax." Jax stepped into the room, letting the flap fall behind him. He lifted the lantern in his hand, casting a faint glow over everything, and smiled down at Syna. He was a dark red color, with deep brown eyes and black bangs that fell into his eyes. He had a pleasant smile and a low, baritone voice that was almost hypnotizing. Syna smiled back. Jax placed the lantern on the ground and sat down Syna beside on the bed. "Tough day?" he asked. Syna nodded ruefully. "I'm sore all over." "Let me help you relax, then." Jax reached over and began rubbing her shoulders, gently. She felt the tension ease out from her at his touch. Her muscles twanged as the knots in them relaxed, and she sighed. "Ohh . . . that feels so much better." "Anything for you," Jax replied. His hands moved gently over her back, soothing the pain. Syna-Eve felt herself growing drowsy and she closed her eyes, leaning into his touch. Her eyes soon flew open again, however. "Jax," she whispered, pulling away from him slightly, "not tonight. I'm too tired." "Come on," Jax replied, taking her arm. "No, I mean it," said Syna. She tugged her arm away and stood up. "I am too tired." "You were never too tired before," said Jax, a hint of suspicion creeping into his voice. "What did you do all day that now you're too tired for me?" "I was working in the med-tent"- Jax cut her off. "Oh, I see," he said bitterly. "You're just tired of me. Going after that guy Gavin you're always talking to. Bet you're never too tired for him!" "Jax, I was only helping Gavin move some supplies. You know I don't get to see him"- "And what did you do during breaks, huh? Did you give him what you won't give me?" "No!" "I bet you did," said Jax, sneering. "You love, Gavin, don't you?" "No! Well, yes, but"- "Ha! I knew it!" Jax grabbed her wrists. "You're not tired, you just don't want me anymore! You've found yourself a better lover than me!" Syna struggled against his grip. "Jax, you're hurting me! Let go!" Jax ignored her. "I bet you go to him during the day for special treatments," he taunted, pulling her closer. "And during the night, too, after I leave. Never too tired for Gavin, right?" "Jax, don't!" Syna pleaded. "Is he better than me? Do you love him more than me?" Jax demanded, getting angrier. "Jax, STOP!" she cried. Silence. Jax seemed to turn a darker shade of red than he already was. "Are you telling me what to do?" he said in a soft, dangerous voice. Syna's face became a mask of panic. "No . . . no, I'm sorry, Jax . . ." "You were," he said, in a faraway voice. "You told me to stop." "Please, I'm sorry . . ." Jax smiled, almost lazily, then punched her. No warning, barely any drawing back, just a sharp, powerful jab to her stomach that knocked the breath from her lungs. Syna cried out, trying to shield herself, but Jax kept a firm grip on her wrists with one hand. "Don't you ever," he said, adding a pun ch with every word for emphasis, "tell me what I can and cannot do!" Syna was sobbing now. "I'm sorry . . ." she gasped. "I won't ever do it again, I swear, Jax . . ." At her tears he seemed to calm, sliding back into his normal, pleasant self. He released her wrists. "You have to learn," he said softly, placing his hands on her waist. Syna-Eve shivered, but nodded. A few moments later, a passing sentinel heard the sounds of heavy breathing from within the tent. He chuckled, murmuring, "Young love . . ." and continued on his rounds. ~ Chapter Four: A Friendship Reborn ~ Syna lay on the bed, motionless, for a long time after Jax left. Her body was drenched with sweat and every muscle was in an agony as she panted, fighting the pain. She could still feel his touch, his body pressed close to hers, the feel of his hands . . . She shuddered. When had it begun to be like this? Her Jax was sensitive and kind. Her Jax would never raise a hand to her. Her Jax would never use her like this. This new side of Jax, this hateful, manipulative side . . . it wasn't Jax. It was someone else, it had to b e. The tent flap opened again. "Syna?" said a soft voice. "Syna, are you in here?" Syna groaned. "Gavin . . ." He walked in and gasped when he saw Syna's condition. "Oh, dear Dimitri," he whispered. "Was it Jax?" Syna-Eve nodded. Gavin began to snarl, eyes narrowing. "I'll kill him. I swear, I'll kill him for this . . ." He came closer. "Can you sit up?" he asked. "No? By Menniker, he can't keep treating you this way. It shouldn't be allowed." He put his hand on her back, and Syn a winced. "Easy . . ." he said soothingly, medical training taking over. "What hurts?" "Everything," Syna replied truthfully. Her entire body throbbed. "Anything in particular?" "Guess," she said, a bitter tone creeping into her voice. Gavin got her meaning and colored slightly. "Other than that." He ducked his head a bit. "It isn't exactly my area of expertise. What I mean is, does anything feel strained or broken?" "My shoulder . . ." she managed. "It hurts when I breathe." Gavin gave her a concerned look. "May I?" Syna nodded. With her consent, Gavin held her arm and moved it gently back and forth. When Syna-Eve bit her lip in pain, Gavin laid down her arm. "Looks like he snapped your collarbone. Syn, if you don't go to Kragok with this, I will." "No!" Syna cried, trying frantically to sit up. "He might . . . He'll think . . . please, Gavin, you can't tell!" Gavin hesitated, but the genuine fear in his friend's eyes made him relent. "Fine, I won't. For now. But you'll have to listen to me on this. Jax isn't going to stop unless you do something about it. People like him need someone to punish to make them fee l strong, and you're letting yourself become his whipping girl. Syna, you're my best friend, you know that . . . and when I see what this sicko is doing to you, I . . ." He broke off, sighing. "Come on, let's get you to the med-tent." Syna lay flat on the table. She shivered as she felt the intrusion of the cold, metal instrument. Gavin gave her hand a squeeze as he worked. "Easy," he told her. "It'll be over soon." "I know," Syna whispered. "I trust you." He was the only one she trusted enough to help her. She drew in a sharp breath as he put pressure on one of her tender spots and tightened her grip on his hand. "Almost done," said Gavin. "What did he do to cut you up so badly?" "He sliced me with something . . . I don't know what." "Dear Goddess, Syn." Gavin shook his head, putting aside his instruments. "Something has to be done. You can't go on living like this." "I know." "He's going to go too far, someday. He'll kill you." "I know." "Then for Menniker's sake, Syn, do something! Go to Kragok, go to Rykor, don't keep coming to me! All I can do is fix what he does, I can't keep him from doing it . . ." He slammed a hand on one of the instrument carts, helplessly. Syna got down from the table, wincing as her feet touched the ground. Gavin helped her put on her robe. "There's nothing I can do," Syn muttered. "Kragok would kill me if he knew . . . you know I wasn't supposed to do anything like that." "If you don't go to him, I'll tell him myself," said Gavin warningly. "NO!" Syna's eyes widened. "Don't tell anyone! You know what they'll say, what they'll do . . ." She began shaking. Seeing her fright, Gavin put his arms around her. "All right . . ." he whispered, holding her close. "It's okay. I won't tell anyone. But you've got to promise me to fight back, Syn. You're too strong to let him get to you." He chucked her under the chin, looking into her eyes. "Promise me you won't let him break you." "I promise." She wrapped her arms around his waist, leaning her head against his chest. "Don't go back to bed just yet," Gavin suggested. "Stay up with me. I know you probably can't sleep right now anyway." Syna nodded. "You're the doctor." "Wish you would remember that more often." Gavin stroked her dreadlocks affectionately. "Come on." Arm in arm, Syna limping with every step, they left the med-tent. "Jax?" Jax looked up from his work, annoyed, then smiled when he saw that it was Syna-Eve. "Hey, Syn. What can I do for you?" "We need to talk," said Syna. "About . . . us." "Okay . . ." Jax stood, folding his arms. "So talk." His expression and tone remained amiable, but something changed about him, subtly. His stance seemed to challenge her to say something. Syna hesitated, fighting back rising panic. *No!* she thought fiercely. *He's trying to intimidate you. Just talk to him.* "Jax, I . . . I want to know why you hurt me." "Oh, *this* again." Jax rolled his eyes. "You've been talking to Gavin again, haven't you?" His eyes narrowed. "You leave him out of this," said Syna defensively. "I *knew* it!" said Jax, a triumphant smile on his face. "You *have* been talking to him!" "He has nothing to do with it, Jax! This is *me* talking to *you*! It doesn't matter who else I've talked to!" "Yes it does," Jax replied. "Gavin's been planting ideas in your head about me, hasn't he? That little . . ." "I can think on my own! I don't need you or Gavin to think for me!" Jax paused. "Oh, really?" he said. "And I suppose you could fight off Vanden and his gang all on your lonesome, is that it?" "No . . ." *He's doing it again, he's twisting what I'm saying to make me feel guilty . . .* "But I can think, I don't need help with that!" "But you need help fighting, is that it? Let the big, dumb man take care of the heavy work while you act like the brains of the outfit?" "No!" "Then what are you saying?" "I . . ." Syna-Eve put her head in her hands. "I don't know, Jax." Jax smiled coldly. "Then hadn't you better leave?" Syna turned to leave, Jax calling after her, "I'll see you tonight." When the time to sleep grew near, Jax entered Syna-Eve's tent. A moment later, he emerged, eyes blazing with a fierce, cold rage. A snarl twisting his features, he headed towards the medical compound with only one thing on his mind . . . "How does this feel?" asked Gavin, moving her arm to the left, slowly. "Tell me when it starts to hurt." Syna waited. "Umm . . . not yet . . . oh!" She winced. "Now, now it hurts . . ." "Okay." Gavin began moving her arm gently in the other direction. "How about now?" "Yeah . . . now . . . Gavin stop, right there." She gritted her teeth. "That's where it starts, right there." "Broken collarbone all right," Gavin muttered. "It'll have to be in a sling for a few more weeks." "Oh, no . . ." Syna groaned, putting her head in her free hand. "Can't say I didn't warn you," Gavin began, when suddenly the tent flap was flung open. A figure stood in the doorway, shaking, breathing heavily. "Yes?" Gavin stood. "Can I . . ." He trailed off when the figure stepped into the light. "Jax . . .!" Syna knocked over her chair in her haste to get up. "What are you"- "I thought I'd find you here," Jax snarled, interrupting her. He ignored Gavin and started towards Syna-Eve threateningly. Gavin put out a hand, stopping Jax. "Don't you dare lay a hand on her," he growled, "or I'll"- "Or you'll what?" Jax pulled himself up to his rather impressive height, glaring down at Gavin. "You aren't worth my time." "Why, you"- "Gavin, stop!" Syna stepped in-between them, looking to Jax. "I'll go with you. Just don't hurt Gavin." Gavin opened his mouth to protest, but Syna flashed him a look that said "don't interfere." He shut his mouth, clenching his fists helplessly at his s ides. Jax smirked, gripping Syna's arm triumphantly. Without another word, he left, taking Syna with him. Gavin stood silently for a long moment after they left, eyes shut, fists clenched, trembling with a terrible, slow-burning rage. Suddenly his eyes flew open and he whirled and grabbed one of the metal side-tables. Lifting it, a cry ripped through him, an d he hurled the table across the tent with all his strength. "Not interested in Gavin, eh?" Jax said mockingly, dragging Syna-Eve behind him. "Not interested? What the hell do you call THAT?!" "He was just looking at my arm, Jax," Syna cried. "He's a medic, you know that . . ." "Yeah? And what else did he 'examine' while you were there?" "Jax, you don't understand! He's my friend!" "Yeah," said Jax, coldly. "Real close friends. You share a lot, don't you?" They reached Syna's tent and Jax shoved her inside. He gripped the back of her robe and pushed her down, face first onto the cot. "I'll show you . . ." He gripped her injured ar m and twisted it behind her, tighter and tighter, making her cry out. "Making noise now, aren't you?" he growled. Syna gasped. "It was you . . . that time when Gavin saved me . . . Oh Goddess . . ." She gripped the sheets with her free hand, tears pouring down her face. "Damn straight," Jax replied, twisting harder. "And this time, he isn't going to save you . . ." Syna felt her bone snap. Fireworks exploded behind her eyes and she cried louder, sobs tearing out from her, taking a bit of her heart with each gasp until she lost consciousness. Gavin walked slowly towards Syna-Eve's tent, deathly afraid of what he might find. He never should have let Jax take her. He should have stood up for her, no matter what . . . but somehow, he couldn't bring himself to do something that Syna didn't want h im to do. He reached her tent. He hesitated for a moment, then threw open the tent flap and stepped in. As his eyes, adjusted to the darkness, he spotted a small figure amidst the tangled sheets. "Syna . . .?" he whispered. The figure didn't respond. Gavin moved closer. It was Syna-Eve on the bed. Blood leaked from the corner of her mouth, dripping down and staining the bedspread. Her left arm was crumpled and useless. Choking back sobs, Gavin reached out, gathering her into his arms. Her body radiated heat, and her fur was slick with sweat. She was shaking badly, but was breathing. Gavin cradled her limp, trembling body against him. "This is all my fault," he whispered. "I never should have let him hurt you. I should have killed him when I had the chance." His eyes narrowed. "But never again. I won't make that mistake again . . ." He kissed her feverish forehead, brushing back her bangs. "First I'll get you some help. Then I'll deal with Jax . . ." Jax was in his tent, getting ready for bed, when Gavin arrived. Jax whirled around as Gavin opened the tent flap and stood in the doorway, fists clenched. "Jax," he said, and the hatred in his voice was enough to throw even Jax off for a moment. He soon recovered however, and smiled. "Gavin," he said pleasantly. "Fancy meeting you here." "Cut the crap, Jax," Gavin snarled. "You know why I'm here." "You saw my handiwork, I assume." Jax's smile widened, and he folded his arms impudently. Gavin stepped into the tent. "You could have killed her." "So?" Jax laughed. "You think I care? Your darling Syna-Eve would be easily replaced. There are plenty of females in the Legion who belong to me, mind, body"-he chuckled-"and soul. Although, I have to admit, she was a better time than most of them. Her f ur is so soft, and she has that amusing little quality of clamming up when she's hurt. Makes it more fun . . . for me." "You sick bastard," Gavin hissed. He drew back and struck Jax across the face with his metallic claws, scoring deep groves in the larger echidna's flesh. Jax drew back, clapping a hand to the side of his face. "That was an incredibly stupid move," he snarled, and leapt at Gavin. The two toppled to the ground, rolling over, grappling and clawing. Gavin managed to slash open the front of Jax's robe, gashing his chest. Jax grunted and flipped, pinning Gavin beneath him. He delivered a one-two punch to Gavin's mouth. It didn't even phase him. Gavin fought like a madman, all claws and teeth and oblivious to pain. It didn't take long for Jax to realize that he wouldn't st and a chance against him at this rate. He'd have to do something to even the odds . . . Gavin kicked out with such force that he hurled Jax out of the tent. Gavin got to his feet, rushing out and tackling Jax again. He pinned Jax, bionic eye flaring, and drew back with one fist. "This," he snarled, "is for Syna." He let go, slamming his fis t into Jax's face with all of his strength. Jax yelped. Gavin kept punching him, a growl building in his chest. Lights came on all over the Legionnaire camp, but neither combatant noticed it. Jax knew that if he didn't do something soon, Gavin really would kill him. Desperation fueled his strength, and he slammed both feet into Gavin's stomach. Gavin flew back, landing on the ground, stunned. Jax leapt at him and immediately tore into him, fighting with as much rage as Gavin had. With every blow exchanged, the other grew stronger, feeding off of their mutual hatred of one another. They moved so swiftly, and with such force, that an observer would be unable to tell one from the other. Suddenly, Jax got in a lucky shot. Gavin arced through the air, landing hard on his back. There was an audible crack. He gasped, clenching his fists, then relaxed. He couldn't feel his body anymore, no pain, nothing. He tried to sit up, but his arms woul dn't obey him. He lay on the ground, helplessly. Jax chuckled, getting up. "Not so tough, now, are we?" Gavin struggled to speak. "You . . . lost . . . Jax . . ." he managed. He coughed, and his breathing was raspy. A trickle of blood started from his mouth, trailing down his cheek. "You can't . . . hurt Syna . . . ever again . . ." He smiled weakly. "What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Jax demanded. He dropped to his knees, hauling Gavin up face to face with him. "Talk!" "You . . . might have . . . her body . . . but . . . I . . . have . . ." He coughed again, shuddering in pain, then smiled. "I have . . . her heart . . ." Jax snarled, pulling a blaster out from his robe, and pressed it to Gavin's chest. "I'll kill you, I swear to Dimitri, I'll pull this damn trigger . . ." "Go ahead . . ." Gavin replied. He chuckled hoarsely. "You . . . can't hurt me . . . either . . ." He reached out with one hand and grasped the collar of Jax's robe, pulling him so close that their noses almost touched. He grinned, and his teeth were red . "I'll see you . . . in the next world . . ." He relaxed his grasp and fell back, panting. Jax sneered and his finger tightened. The shot rang out through the compound. Legionnaires rushed out of their tents. One, a medic, caught sight of Gavin, lying forlornly outside of Jax's tent. "Oh, no!" she cried. She dashed over, dropping to her knees beside him. "Gavin!" For a moment, Gavin's eyes opened. He looked at the medic with unfocused eyes. "Syna . . . is she . . .?" "She's gonna be fine," said the medic. "Hang on, Gavin, we'll get you some help. We can"- "No . . ." Gavin whispered, interrupting her. His voice was soft, but firm. "I just . . . want to stay . . . right here . . ." The medic saw the spreading stain on his chest, and got his meaning. "Okay," she said quietly. "It's okay . . . you just rest. Just rest for a moment." Gavin nodded, closing his eyes. Slowly, his breath became faster and shallower, until finally it ceased altogether. His muscles went limp. The medic held his wrist between two fingers. After a moment, the she shook her head. "Dead," she said softly. The assembled Legionnaires parted to make way for a somewhat rumpled-looking Kragok. "What's going on here?" he demanded. He spotted Gavin's body and looked around, eyes narrowing. "What is the meaning of this?" Jax stepped forward, dropping to one knee before Kragok. "It was self-defense, Lord Kragok. Gavin attacked me." He placed his blaster at Kragok's feet, and bent his head in submission. "I ask your pardon for my deed." Kragok scrutinized Jax's stance, but could find no hint of untruth in his words. Still something about him . . . Kragok frowned deeply. "Killing a fellow Legionnaire is no small thing." He nodded to two of his guards. "Bring him to my tent. We'll see if you deserve pardon." ~ Chapter Five: A Friendship Dies ~ Tears and sweat . . . that was all she remembered. Tears and sweat and blood on the sheets. Jax's and hers . . . she wouldn't let him . . . Syna awoke slowly, greeted by a world that was blurry at the edges, sharp ends smoothed out. Her tongue was dry and furry. Fresh, clean sheets surrounded her, soft and comforting, and she wondered where she was. Her body felt light, free, with no pain an ywhere. Someone, a female dressed in the uniform of a medic, walked in. "Oh, good," she said. "You're awake. I was worried." "What . . . how long have I been asleep?" Her words were like fluff, falling from her mouth and floating away. "Two days, but that's not unusual, considering you had extensive surgery." "What?" "Your arm, hon." Syna turned her head and looked at her left arm. It was metallic, from the shoulder down. She winced. "Oh, no . . ." "You're fortunate," said the medic. "It could have been worse." A thought crossed Syna's mind. "Jax . . . where's Jax?" "That guy?" The medic lifted an eyebrow. "Why?" "Please, just . . . where is he?" "Kragok still has him in custody, as far as I know." "Custody? What for?" "He killed a Legionnaire. Gavin. Damn good medic, too. What a waste." The medic shook her head, looking disgusted. The bottom dropped out from Syna's world. She felt her grip on reality slipping. She gasped, as though she was drowning. "Gavin . . ." "Oh, I'm sorry . . . did you know him?" The medic's tone was sympathetic. All the sharp edges of the world came into immediate focus and pierced Syna's heart, all at once. She clutched at her chest. Her heart thudded and twisted inside her, making her gasp. Gavin couldn't die, he couldn't leave her again, it hurt too much . . . She tore at herself, at her heart, trying to make it stop hurting, to make it stop beating . . . Strong arms pinned her to the cot, and she screamed, thrashing back and forth. Her heart sent fire all through her, scorching everything. Her mind burned. The flames razed her thoughts, leaving her with nothing but pain . . . She lost her strength all at once and stopped struggling, falling back against the sheets and sobbing brokenly. Her breath poured into her like frost, freezing and hardening her heart. A wintry grip held her, sure as stone and pale as sunlight. Slowly, sl owly, the inferno in her mind cooled. It became clear and cold, and her body became hardened against the razor-sharp pain of the world. Her sobbing ceased and her breathing slowed. The tears froze on her cheeks, drying and blowing away like so much dust. Syna-Eve opened her eyes to a harsh world. One where she didn't belong and never would. Her new heart, hard like ice and twice as cold, began to beat. A world without Gavin . . . Kragok put his head in his hands, sighing. Jax stood before him, head bowed humbly. Kragok could find nothing wrong with his story, for many of the Legionnaires claimed to have been woken up by the sounds of a fight. And Jax didn't *seem* to be lying. I n fact, if the Legionnaire killed hadn't been Gavin, he would have let Jax go by now. But something about Gavin attacking someone, without reason like that . . . just didn't ring true. Kragok tapped his fingers on the desk. He had no real reason to doubt Jax's word, and yet . . . "I await your decision, Grandmaster," said Jax, keeping his eyes lowered. Kragok weighed his choices. On the one hand, he could go with the uncivilized "eye for an eye" treatment and have Jax executed. But he'd lose a soldier, and as the time of invasion grew ever-closer, he knew he needed every soldier he had. But if he relea sed Jax, and the boy was guilty, then he would be letting a murder go unpunished. He made his decision. "I don't pretend to believe your story, Jax, because frankly, I don't." Kragok frowned. "However, in light of the fact that there is no solid evidence to dispute your story, I have decided to let you go. But it is with the understanding that you are on p robation. I will be watching you closely, Jax. If I find that you've committed another infraction, no matter how small, your sentence will be considerably less . . . lenient, do I make myself clear?" "Your decision is more than fair, Grandmaster," Jax replied, bowing low. "I promise you, you will not regret it." *I already do,* Kragok thought. *Though I wish I knew why.* "You may leave, Jax. Just remember that you have been warned." "Yes, sir." Jax turned and left. Once he was certain that he was out of anyone's earshot, he snickered. "Gullible old fool . . ." He began walking towards the tents. He had business to take care of. Syna-Eve lay in her bed. She was conscious of nothing but the darkness that surrounded her, weighing down her body so that she could barely breathe. She tried to focus on breathing, but every rise of her chest sent knives into her lungs. She wondered, br iefly, if she was ill, but the thought didn't concern her. She didn't care if she was sick-if she was, then what did it matter? Gavin was dead . . . She heard someone enter the tent. Jax. Syna snarled silently. He dared come here after what he had done . . . "Syna?" Jax's voice. "Are you alright, love?" Syna-Eve's eyes opened. She sat up slowly, turning her head to see Jax standing in the doorway. Her eyes narrowed. "You killed him," she said flatly. "What?" "Gavin. You killed him." Jax looked taken aback. "Syna, I"- "No, Jax." She stood, raising her metallic fist. "I've had it with your lies, the way you twist everything I say, everything I want. Not this time. You killed Gavin, Jax. My best friend. And none of your lies can cover up that simple fact." Jax growled. "You can't talk to me that way." "Yes I can, Jax." Syna clenched her fists. "Because I'm not afraid of you anymore." "You should be," Jax responded, and slugged her hard across the mouth. Syna was nearly knocked off her feet by the blow. She bent slightly, placing her hand to her lips. She could sense the rusty taste of blood in her mouth. Rage flared. She whirled, metallic hand extended, and slapped Jax across his face with all of her strength. She wiped her mouth, snarling at him. Jax rubbed his cheek. "Just like I thought," he said, smirking. "You hit like a girl." "You . . .!" Syna-Eve leapt at him, but he dodged, gripping her arm and throwing her into her table in the tent. The sharp corner dug into her back, and she gasped, twisting away and hitting the ground. The table's contents spilled onto the floor. A mirr or fell and shattered, glass sprinkling onto Syna's prone form. Jax was upon her in an instant, punching and kicking her for all he was worth. Syna fell back, making no effort to shield herself. She lay passively on the ground. Her eyes were half-closed, and she felt herself growing more and more distant with every new burst of pain. Her sensed dulled, her vision faded. She watched as he took her with as much force as he had beaten her. It didn't seem to matter anymore. She felt no pleasure or humiliation-it was just something that happened. She closed her eyes against it, not caring anymore. After an eternity, Jax got up. "Weakling," he snorted, delivering a final kick to Syna's stomach. He straightened his robe and left without looking back. Syna lay on the ground for a long moment, unmoving. Odd . . . her body was battered and broken, her mind shattered, and still she felt nothing . . . She began to slip under into darkness, but the pain of her injuries kept her conscious. Gavin's face surfaced amid her scattered memories. Tears welled up in her unfocused eyes and traced their way down her cheek. It hurt too much . . . her whole life. Her hands groped weakly for something to end the torture and found a shard of glass from the broken mirror. It was large enough, and sharp . . . Silently, she lifted it to her own throat. Syna-Eve took a deep breath, and . . . Stopped. Her hand was stayed by some kind of force. It held her in an invisible, unshakable grasp. No, Syn, said a voice. Her brain registered the words. Her ears swore that no one had spoken. Syna looked to her side, blearily, and saw a blurry figure crouched beside her. "Gavin?" she whispered. The figure nodded. This is wrong, Syn, and you know it. Death isn't an escape. Someone took the glass from her with a firm but gentle movement. Syna clenched her teeth. "I don't want to live," she replied. You have to escape, Syn, but not from life. From Jax. From me. "No! I don't ever want to forget you . . ." Not forget. Remember, but do not accept it. Escape the Legion, and leave me behind. "Gavin, I . . ." I died for you, Syna-Eve. I died so that you could live. I'm the only thing left tying you to this wretched place. A spectral hand took hers. Please, Syn. Syna clung to the hand, feeling it's warmth. "I love you. You're the only one who ever cared." Then let me rest. "Gavin . . ." Syn, all that time I did what you wanted. Now I ask something of you. Let my memory rest. I ask you, as a friend to a friend, let it go. Live on, for me, if for nothing else. She felt a sob threatening to rise in her throat and suppressed it fiercely. She squeezed Gavin's hand, pressing it to her cheek. "For you Gavin . . . Always for you . . ." The sob burst out of her and she released the hand, whispering, "I'll remember." She felt a gentle pressure, like a kiss, on her forehead. Thank you, Syn . . . The figure dissipated, and for an instant Syna saw a brilliantly blue eye, sparkling . . . then it was gone. Syna took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly. She felt . . . comforted, somehow, as though a weight had been taken from her shoulders. She sat up, slowly, though every muscle in her body screamed in protest at the action. Leave the Dark Legion? A smile touched Syna-Eve's lips. She would do what Gavin wanted her to do. Her life was for him now . . . She wouldn't disappoint him. ~ Epilogue: Something to Live For ~ Syna-Eve jumped into the waiting hovercraft, frantically gunning the engine as the Legion base crumbled all around her. The others were already gone, and the base was self-destructing. It was probably the Guardian, trying to kill them all . . . but she w ouldn't fall prey to that cursed son of Edmund. A piece of the ceiling fell, narrowly missing her. Her hovercraft took off, and she guided it out of the base as quickly as she could. It exploded a split-second behind her, rocking the craft and nearly throwing her from her seat. She turned in time to w atch what was left of it fall to the ground, smoking. Syna shivered. She looked around. No sign of her comrades. She'd have to try and find them . . . unless . . . Her eyes turned to the edge of the island. Now was her chance to leave the Legion, start over. She wouldn't be missed until it was too late. Without a glance back, she altered the hovercraft's course. She was returning to Mobius . . . a new world . . . and a new life . . . "A new life . . ." she whispered. "For Gavin." She touched her heart, the heart that still beat fast and strong. "Always for him . . ."