Armaverse/Chapter 20

==Intro==
They must fight for an answer that comes beyond the light. But in order to do such a thing, past fears must be faced... 
Meanwhile, the stakes have risen. The Void is moving faster than expected...
==Description== 
===Part 1===
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As the platform begins to move, carrying us through the swirling nebulae towards our next trial, a sense of anticipation fills the air. 
Sarah: Looks like its going to be a while until we arrive at our next trial. You want to sit down and relax?
Dylan: Yeah, sure...
We both take a seat on the platform, looking at the nebulae around us as it carries us towards our next trial.
Sarah: Can you believe how we conquered that mountain?
Dylan: No, I can't, really. We already completed the second trial!
Sarah: I know, especially where I almost fell off, but you caught me.
Dylan: Yeah. That was crazy. However, I cant help but ponder what happened with that so called, "Follower of The Nebula".
Sarah: Yeah, that puzzled me too. I know he is connected to that prophecy Xul Turon mentioned. Almost as if, he plays a part in it..
Dylan: Wait a second. Remember the so called "shimmering-stars" he mentioned? 
Sarah: Yeah, I do. And the prophecy mentioned by Xul Turon, and the shimmering stars. The 2 must have a connection.
Dylan: Yeah, probably. But, I don't want to jump to conclusions, atleast not yet.
We both sit there for a while longer, marvelling at the shooting stars and the moving nebulas around us, making the environment even more surreal than ever. I eventually turn to Dylan, aching to ask something..
Sarah: Hey, Dylan... There's uhh, there is something I wanted to ask you.
Dylan looks up, curious at my question.
Dylan: Yeah? 
Sarah: Well, it's just... its been in my head for a while now.. 
I hesitate for a moment, trying to find the right words to say.
Sarah: Well, it's just... I've noticed that during our journey together, especially when I've had those panic attacks, you always seem concerned. I guess I'm just wondering why.
Dylan: [Surprised] Well Sarah, I... I guess I just don't like seeing you in pain. I don't want you to go through this alone, you know? And, I guess I don't like to see you suffer or panic.
His words catch me off guard, and I feel a warmth spread through my chest.
Sarah: Thank you, Dylan. That means a lot to me.
Dylan: Of course, Sarah. We're in this together, remember?
An awkward silence plays, with the only thing I hear being the nebulae floating around us, and the platform moving.
Sarah: Can I ask you something else?
Dylan leans in, listening intently.
Dylan: Sure, Sarah. What do you want to ask?
Sarah: Do you... Do you consider me a friend?
I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks as I avoid his gaze, feeling embarrassed by my question. 
Sarah: I mean, it's.. it's just... we have been through a lot in this journey, and you have always been close to me. You even helped me when we were in that labrynth of pipes, and when I tripped and got that giant gash on my right arm, you still helped me.
I see Dylan's expression change, as if he is contemplating his response. 
Dylan: Sarah, after all we have been through together, I couldn't see you in pain like that. And... I think I actually am growing a bond with you, even beyond this simple journey.
His words ring in my ears, and I feel a rush of emotion wash over me. I know now that he feels the same way I do, that we have been growing a bond towards each other, one that was not just for this simple journey, for the prophecy..
Sarah: [Blushing]Thank you, Dylan. That.. that means a lot to me.
As we sit there, basking in the warmth of our newfound friendship, the platform glides smoothly through the nebulae, leaving trails of stardust in its path. As me and Dylan talk, getting to know eachother better, the ethereal light dancing around us, casting us and the platform in a vibrant but faint glow.
Our moment of peace is interrupted as the platform begins to slow down. The platform comes to a stop, and we both get up, anticipation and curiosity replacing our previous calm and peace.
Sarah: Woah, what is this place?
Dylan: I don't know. This must be our next trial though.
I look around, examining my surroundings. It seems like an old colosseum that looks like its in ruins. Sandstone arches surround us, with mounds of sand blocking any potential holes. I look up and see the familiar nebula sky.
Sarah:[Startled] What the, what is that?
I then see a gigantic eye floating directly above us, pulsating with a weird energy.
Dylan[Concerned] I think that might just be Xul Turon watching us from the eye. He is the keeper of the trials after all.
Sarah: Good point.
The floor of the area is littered with weapons. As I take in the sight, I come to a realization.
Sarah: Dylan, do you see this? 
I whispered, my voice was barely louder than a breath.
Dylan's eyes scan the area, his expression thoughtful.
Dylan: It seems like we are going to have to fight something. I mean, look around. The weapons.. the atmosphere of this area.. it is all pointing towards a confrontation
I nod shyly, I can feel my heart pounding when I heard Dylan say we were probably going to have to fight.
Sarah: But, fight what? Is it going to be more than one opponent? What if we fail?
Dylan places a reassuring hand on my shoulder, making my heart flutter. 
Dylan: I don't know. But whatever it is, no matter what it is, we'll face it together. 
Sarah: [Calming down] Yeah, you're right. So, I'm assuming we need to pick a weapon now?
Dylan: Yeah we do, Sarah. We'll inevitably have to fight something, and we need to be ready.
Sarah: Right.
I swallow hard, trying to calm myself. I look around the ground, looking for anything I can use to fight. I find my eyes landing on a sword that seems relatively intact compared to the others. I pick it up, feeling its weight in my hands, the cool metal sending a shiver up my spine. I look at Dylan who also seems to have chosen a weapon, holding a sturdy metal spear.
Dylan: This should be good. 
Sarah: Yeah.
I grip my sword tighter, holding it in my right hand.
Just as we finish arming ourselves, the heavy silence is broken by a loud, creaking noise. I turn towards the source, my eyes widening as I see the massive gate at the other end of the coliseum starting to open. I start to feel scared, staying close to Dylan as I ready my sword and shield, with Dylan having his spear ready to fight.
As the gate opens, my grip tightens on the handle of my sword, my heart racing with a mix of fear and adrenaline as I look ahead. Dylan steps closer to me, his presence a comforting reminder that I'm not facing this alone. 
Dylan: Stay close Sarah, I will be by your side. You are not alone. 
I feel a warmth in my chest at those words. The gate continues to rise, revealing a humanoid figure on all 4's emerging from the depths of the coliseum. Its the same one I saw in that warehouse area. It lets out a growl.
Sarah: Here we go...
===Part 2===
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In what seems like an instand, the hound charges at us at an alarming speed, its claws digging into the ground and kicking up dirt and debris as it approaches us. I am a little caught off guard by its tremendous speed.
Dylan: Sarah, get ready! 
Dylan shouts, positioning himself defensively with his spear.
Before we can react, the hound charges at us, a blur of muscle and fury. I barely have time to raise my sword before it's upon us, its claws slashing through the air. 
Sarah: [Startled] Gah, what the hell?
Dylan: Be careful!
I swiftly dodge to the side, swinging my sword in a desperate attempt to defend myself. It barely touches the hound, but it doesnt seem phased. Dylan is moving with me, his arm moving back and forth, trying to get a swing at the creature. 
The hound moves fast, its movements erratic and unpredictable. It lunges at me again, and I barely manage to deflect its attack with my sword. I notice the hound turn his attention towards Dylan.
Sarah: Dylan! Look out!
I shout as the hound turns its attention towards him, its claws aiming for his legs. I take a closer look at the claws, they look similar to werewolves. I mean, I am not really surprised, since this is the backrooms.
Dylan eventually notices the hound behind him. He jumps back and throws the spear on impulse. it flies through the air and impales the hounds shoulder, and falls on the sand. It howls in pain, but the wound only seems to enrage it further. It is distracted now, grabbing its claws into the ground as it gathers speed before it charges.
Dylan: Sarah! Now!
Almost on instinct, I run towards the hound while it is briefly immobile. With all of my strength, I pierce my sword deep into the hounds flesh. The creature lets out a long, agonizing howl before it goes limp. It falls to the ground, twitching slightly before dying. I pull my sword out of the hound, and streams blood and pus ooze out of the creature from where I stabbed it. 
Sarah: [Gagging] Ugh, I think I'm gonna be sick. 
I find myself retching at the sight of the fluids spilling out, the grotesque reality of the kill hitting me hard. My stomach churns, and I have to force myself to look away, trying to steady my breathing.
Dylan walks over, his expression a mix of sympathy and concern. He places a hand on my shoulder.
Dylan: Hey are you alright?
I give a weak nod, trying to push down the nausea. 
Sarah: [Queasy] Yeah.. I just... that was very intense.
Dylan gives me a reassuring smile. He nods sympathetically. 
Dylan: Just take deep breaths. You did great, Sarah. 
I wipe my sword on the ground, trying to rid it of the creature's blood and fluids. My breathing calms down. “Thank you..”
Dylan: We shouldn't let our guard down. There could be more creatures..
Then, as if it was on cue, a low growling noise permeates through the coliseum. 
Sarah: Looks like another one.
I turn towards the now opening gate, my heart sinking as another figure emerges. This one is even more grotesque and mutilated, walking humanoid with patches of its skin hanging loosely from its body. 
Sarah: [Startled] What the?! What the hell is this?!
Dylan: A skin stealer.
Sarah: A skin stealer?! What is that?
Dylan: These things are worse than the hounds. They can mimic their victims..
Sarah: Damn it.. so what do we do? 
Dylan: Same as before, Sarah. We fight..
We can't even plan our attack, because the skin stealer starts charging at us, its sharp, bloody hands pointed directly towards us. Dylan tries to stab it with his spear, but it's almost as if the entity predicted the attack, because it dodges, slashing at him with its sharp claw-like hands.
Sarah: [Scared] Dylan! Watch out! 
Luckily, Dylan manages to block the attack, but the sheer force of it knocks him off balance. The skin stealer, distracted, turns its attention towards me. Its blank, white eyes lock onto mine, which sends a shiver down my spine. As it lunges me, I swing my sword at its neck, but it ducks, shooting out its hand to grab my arm. It's cold, slimy touch sends a jolt down my spine.
Then, with a sudden burst of adrenaline, I kick and i break my arm free, slashing at the skin stealers face in the process. The blade connects, slicing through its cheek. It recoils, letting out a guttural scream. Dylan takes advantage of the opening, thrusting his spear into its eyes. The skin stealer howls in pain, staggering back.
Sarah: It's blinded! Now is our chance to attack! 
Dylan: Oh, right!
We press our advantage, attacking in sync. I strike from the left while Dylan attacks from the right. The creature attempts to defend itself, but our combined efforts begin to overwhelm it. The creature is staggering all over the place, gashes visible everywhere.
Sarah: And now.. for the finishing blow!
Finally, with a powerful blow, I pierce my sword straight through the creature's heart. It lets out a final, anguished cry before collapsing to the ground, its body dissolving into a dark, oily substance.
I look at Dylan, panting heavily. 
Sarah:[Panting] We.. we did it again!
Dylan: Yeah, we did. But, who knows what else is coming? We need to stay together..
As if on cue, I can see the gate open again, shadowy smoke coming out.
Sarah: This must be the final entity. But what could it-
My words are cut off as I hear a low growling sound, the waves heard throughout the entire arena
Dylan: [Firm] This must be a stronger one..
Sarah: No... it cant be...
As the final entity emerges, my heart sinks, and a wave of fear washes over me. I get a good look at it, and I freeze...
It's a smiler. 
A floating, glowing white smiling face with a shadowy aura. My breath catches in my throat, and I stumble backward, my mind racing with terror.
Sarah: [Scared] No.. it cant be.. not again.. 
My voice is trembling as I struggle to contain the rising panic.
Dylan notices my distress, his expression shifting to concern. He rushes to my side, his eyes searching mine.
Dylan: [Concerned] Sarah, what's wrong? 
The face of the smiler chasing me is a haunting and terrifying nightmare, one I never wanted to relive, nor be reminded of. I can barely speak, my voice a shaky whisper.
Sarah: [Scared] Dylan it's.. it's.. its a smiler...
Dylan's eyes widen a bit as he realizes my situation
Sarah: [Scared] Remember when I-I had that panic attack in Level 4 when you mentioned a smiling thing?
Dylan: [Concerned] Yeah... I do...
Sarah: Well, I-I encountered one in Level 3. It almost killed me. I... I barely made it... 
Dylan takes me into his arms, trying to soothe my fears.
Dylan: Calm down, I'm right here. We are in this together. We can do this..
His calm strength helps me regain control. I take deep breaths, forcing myself to focus on what's infront of us, on the reality that Dylan is here with me. I pull back slightly, looking into his eyes.
Sarah: [Blush] Heh, thank you..
We both get up on our feet again, facing eachother.
Sarah: I.. I think I'm ready now...
Dylan: That's the spirit. Now, let's do this thing.
The Smiler floats closer, its eerie grin seeming to widen as it senses my fears for it diminish. We grip our weapons tighter, ready to face this entity together.
Sarah: Let's do this!
Dylan and I charge, weapons raised, but as we swing and stab, our attacks simply pass right through the Smiler’s ethereal form. It lets out a sinister laugh, its glowing eyes mocking us.
Dylan: [Taken Aback] Damn it! Our weapons aren't working.
Sarah: Yeah, we have to try something different...
I rack my brain, trying to remember everything I know about Smilers, though not a lot. I try to find something we can use to defeat it, but then it hits me.
Smilers hate light.
Sarah: Wait, light! Dylan, we need to expose it to light! Smilers hate light!
I glance around and spot a torch on a wall of the coliseum. I begin to run towards it, intending to grab it. The Smiler, sensing my intent, chases after me. 
Dylan: Sarah, I will distract it! Just get the torch!
Dylan intercepts the smiler, swinging his sword widely to distract it from its pursuit and buy me some time.
With quick thinking, I reach the torch and yank it from its place, the flame flickering but staying lit.
Sarah: Hold on a little longer Dylan! 
I run back towards Dylan, my torch held high. The Smiler hisses, its grin faltering as it notices the light from the torch draws nearer. I thrust the torch towards the Smiler, and it recoils, the light burning bright in it's shadowy form.
Dylan: Sarah! It's working!
The Smiler thrashes as it tries to escape the light. But I hold the torch steady, forcing it closer. The creature's form starts to dissipate, its once sinister grin melting away into nothingness. With a final, agonized shriek, the Smiler vanishes, leaving only the eerie glow of the torch in the dim coliseum.
Sarah: We did it... 
My heart races with adrenaline. We had just completed the trial.
Dylan: The trial is over... we did it Sarah...
I look at Dylan, smiling. 
Sarah: Yeah... we did, and we did it together.
The trial is finally over, but there's no time to savor our victory. The coliseum begins to shake violently, the ground beneath us cracking and chunks of stone falling away into the nebula. Above, the nebula sky starts to consume the arena, its cosmic force swallowing the walls and floors of the coliseum piece by piece.
Sarah: [Scared] Dylan! The arena is dissapearing! We have to get out of here! 
Dylan: Sarah, I think this might be transporting us to our next trial.
I am more calm when he said that.
Sarah: Well... I'll see you on the other side.
Dylan: Yeah...
We run towards the center of the arena, where a swirling rift opens up, the familiar portal to the next trial. The coliseum around us crumbles, pieces of the structure being sucked into the nebula sky. We leap into the portal, the light engulfing us. 
Sarah: I sure hope so...
> Open Hidden File. > Close Hidden File 
--Initiate Log--
A mysterious chamber bathes in the ethereal glow of nebulae and streaking shooting stars. Xul Turon is at the center, his gaze fixed on a shimmering portal that displays the images of Sarah and Dylan moving through their trials.
Xul Turon: [Impressed] Well done. Very well done. You are doing well so far, Sarah and Dylan. But the question is, will it continue?
Then, 2 followers of the nebula approach Xul Turon, and bow respectfully, their familiar purple hoods visible.
Follower 1: Master, you have summoned us. What are your orders?
Xul Turon waits to speak, contemplating on his response. He eventually looks at the 2 followers who are bowing before him.
Xul Turon: Prepare for their arrival. The two, Sarah and Dylan... they will be arriving at the fourth trial soon, and we must be ready.
The followers nod respectfully, their vibrant yellow eyes glistening against their dark shadowy figure.
They begin to walk away, when something, a nebula wisp, floats next to Xul Turon. It whispers something into his ear, inaudible to the two followers standing near him.
The second follower notices the sudden change in Xul Turons demeanor as the wisp whispered in his ear. The follower puts his hands together before he speaks again.
Follower 2: What did it say master? Is everything alright?
Xul Turon waits a second before responding.
Xul Turon: The Void... It's, it's moving faster than we expected. It's already began it's conquest. 
He turns to his followers, noticing the respectful demeanor they exert.
Xul Turon: It seems, that we can't afford to delay any longer. It's time.. to begin the prophecy...
The 2 Followers both exchange a glance, understanding the gravity of the situation. 
Follower 1: So.. shall we prepare the ritual now..?
Xul Turon: Yes.
He says that with a firm tone, as well as nodding.
Xul Turon: We must ensure that everything is in place. The fate of The Backrooms and The Frontrooms, it all depends on the success of everything.
Xul Turon looks at each of the followers.
Xul Turon: One of you will wait at the ritual site for Sarah and Dylan.
Follower 1: Yes master.
He walks away, leaving the second follower.
Xul Turon: And you shall be the one to provide subtle clues for Sarah and Dylan in their fourth trial.
The second follower hears this, bows, and walks away. Xul Turon eventually turns back to the portal displaying Sarah and Dylan in the trials, with a look of hope in his eyes. He starts speaking, but Sarah and Dylan don't hear.
Xul Turon: Sarah and Dylan. The Void is moving faster than we originally anticipated. It seems like it's already starting to unleash it's calamity sooner than we thought. I know you can't hear me but, please hurry. The fate of the universe, our reality, our lives...
They are all in your hands...
Category:Armaverse Canon