Birth of Extinction, Chapter 1

**[DISCLAIMER: This story is not yet fully edited and was originally in roleplay format.]**

Lies (Ava) and Grief (Cearo) were both living in a home far away, from Conduit eyes. Grief was relaxing while a very pregnant Lies was outside looking over their balcony and checking out the Citadel view.

Grief would look at her and go over to hug her. He was around to take care of her around this time, knowing that he couldn't leave her alone.

"You don't have to smother me, I'm alright.

You sure being here in the Citadel is a good move?"  She asked with a hint of worry in her voice.

"As long as I'm careful, I'll be fine. Remember you don't have to worry about me 'smothering' you soon." Grief said as he looked down at her again.

"Oh yes, this little bundle of pain.

Of course...what if they are a Conduit?" Lies asked, her voice showing a little more worry.

"If they are... well you know what has to happen. But I'll try my best to bring them around to make sure you can spend time with them too, dear." Grief said as he sat down next to her.

"...it's ok. You don't have to do that. They'd use any chance they could to get to me.

Just raise them right. Or whatever that means." Lies said as she looked and watched as the Sun Presence flew through the sky.

"I'm sure you want to spend time with them. Even if you try to deny it." Grief smiled as he kissed her forehead before he let go of her.

"No, I don't. I've been perfectly fine on my own." Lies said

"I'll make sure to bring them as often as possible, don't worry." Grief replied as he kissed her cheek this time.

"...tch." Lies looked over to the side. She hated how Grief knew when she was lying.

"Aww... Don't be like that, darling. You know you love me." Grief said, putting his hand under her chin, turning Lies's head towards himself.

"I do. Yes." She said hugging him. Grief returned the hug with a warm smile.

"Now if you'll excuse me, I have an errand to run." Lies said as she got up, walking to the front door.

Cearo followed behind her. He was mildly confused. "Where are you going? I hope you didn't plan to go alone." he asked.

"I did. You should stay home. I ain't gonna be a minute." Lies said, grabbing her bag that sat on a chair by the front door.

Grief squinted and began to get ready to go with her. "I'm coming." Said Grief. Lies turned back and looked at him.

"No, you're not. Stop pestering me or I'm gonna make you cry." She said putting her hands on her hips.

Cearo tilted his head. He couldn't tell if she was being serious or not this time. As Grief approached she flicked his head and turned around.

"Leave me be man thing. I'll be back." Lies said as she opened the door to their home and closed it behind her. Grief kinda sat there for a second before he went with her. He decided that she was just bluffing with him and left the home to follow Lies.

Lies looked at him joining her as she just kept moving she rolled her eyes with annoyance. She continued to walk down the street, Grief kept following behind her but he didn't say much as to try and not annoy her.

As they walked, they passed by all manner of aliens, humanoids, humans, EdenFolk and more. Grief looked around at the other they passed. He was curious to where they were going since he didn't explore the Citadel much.

"This place is a shitshow for the scams of Eden. Though there is some beauty to this garbage." Lies said as they walked. Grief moved forward, walking up next to Lies as they passed more people on the street.

"I usually spend time amongst the Conduits... I do apologize if I draw attention to you." Grief said as Lies simply brushed it off.

"You're fine. That's why I need us to start wearing something more casual " Lies said as she watched some knight guards walk through the streets. Grief's eyes followed the same knights as they walked past.

"Well I'm still wondering where we're going, Ava... Can you at least tell me that honestly?" Grief asked, turning his head to her.

"To the store." Lies said, looking back at him.

"Geez, I'm not gonna go out killing while I got a big bun in the oven." She said feeling her tummy.

"Well I hope not. We wouldn't want them getting hurt." Grief said, his tone sounding mildly upset. Ava's statement had bothered Grief a bit

"Of course not." She said.

Eventually they made it to the main store on they're block. It was called E-Mart. It was a massive 3 story building that held groceries, electronics and even some pharmaceutical products.

Grief looked up at the building and then back to Lies, picking up his walking pace to catch up with her.

"Ok, don't get lost and stay with me." Lies said as she then grabbed a cart upon entering the marketplace, it was booming with people today. Luckily there was AI all over the place in terms of helping customers, stocking shelves and even handling possible thefts.

"What are we getting here?" Grief asked as he stayed by her side, keeping to himself to make sure he doesn't bump into anything.

"Milk, cheese, ham, bagels, ice cream, specifically honeycomb. More baby food, some diapers and plenty of fruit cups.

How's that sound?" She asked, turning her head back to Grief.

"That sounds good. Please let me know when you need me to grab anything though. I don't want you to get injured." Grief said in a worried tone.

"Well if you insist." Lies then started moving to the dairy section.

"Go ahead and grab the milk." She asked

He got it and looked at the date before he places it in the cart. "Is this all we need to do today? I'm not great... At keeping track of this stuff."

"Just grab what I ask and you'll survive." Lies smiled as she looked at her list.

"Go ahead since we're in the dairy section, go grab some cheese. I'm gonna grab the ham." She said as she took the cart with her towards the meat.

Grief nodded as he headed off to go grab the cheese, going back to her soon after. Lies was by the meat section, trying to see which ham she wanted.

"My heart tell me which ham you like?, abomination? Classic? Squeezed? Or Isolated?" She asked. Grief looked at her with the most disturbed expression anyone could have. What was this woman on about?? Lies looked at him.

"What kind of ham do you want?" She asked once more.

"Get... A classic one?" Grief answered with a hint of hesitation in his tone.

"Alright. Next we have Honey Ice cream. Here I'll grab that. You go get more baby food and diapers." Lies said, taking the cart and splitting from him. Grief stood there for a bit to think of where to go before heading off to get the stuff. He moved between people, trying to minimize any reaction.

"Greetings sir! May I get you anything? A free sample? Do you need directions?" Said an Ai holographic human female. Grief jumped in surprise.

He looked at it, going quiet at the sudden interaction.

"Sir?" The Ai asked

"I... I just need some baby stuff..." Grief said, nervously.

"Could you clarify?" The Ai asked

"Food... And diapers..." Grief said, his voice getting quiet as his anxiety began to skyrocket

"Baby Food and diapers are going to be located on the 3rd floor, 2nd isle on your right." The Ai smiled as Grief gave a thumbs up and then shuffles away to get to the third floor. The way to the third floor was crowded and littered with people. Grief gave a sigh as he saw.

"Why me..?" He said as he head in to grab the stuff, continuing to be as avoidant as possible. Some people would get too close and he tried to refrain from an obvious discomfort.

"Apologies." Someone said as they bumped into him.

Grief looked at them briefly "Uh... It's... Fine-" he said with a nervous tone in his voice. The man looked Grief up and down as he nodded.

"Nice outfit." The man said as he left. Grief got more uncomfortable so he just grabbed his things and head back down to Lies.

It took a moment but Grief had finally found Lies. She was sitting down. A little tired, with the cart right next to her.

"Are you okay..?" Grief said as he set the things in the cart and sat beside her.

"Yea, our little one just gave me a kick is all. Soon, I can feel it." Lies said, rubbing her stomach.

"Well what do we have left..? I can get the rest of it." Grief offered. Lies looked over to him, putting her hand on his.

"Just fruit cups...yea why don't you go ahead and get it. I'll be here." She said exhausted, her breathing was heavy as Grief got up. He seemed worried about Lies, but he didn't let that get in the way.

Grief quickly walked to get the fruit cups and brought them back. Grief helped Lies up to hold onto the cart, him standing behind her to push it so she just has to support herself.

"Oh thank you. You're sweet when you're not crying all the time." She chuckled as they got around to the check out.

"These humans can be such a drag. Here i have an idea." She said as she then tapped on the person's shoulder in front of them. The man turned around to them.

"Excuse me, but we were in front of you." Lies said, even though the man was clearly in front of them. The man ooked at where he was standing and then turned to them.

"Oh my- I'm so sorry. I didn't see...sorry about that." He said as he then moved his cart for them.

"No hard feelings." She chuckled

His expression looked a little bothered but he moved them up anyways. "I'll let it slide this time."

"Whatever, you want to get out of here too Mr.Anxiety." she said as she kept on doing it to people till they reached the front.

"Hello there, how may I be of service?" Asked a kind ginger haired woman.

"Oh we already paid, we're just going back through cause my husband dropped his wallet." She said the woman looked at her machine, even though nothing went through it. She took as they had already done the transaction.

"Apologies, guess I must have forgotten about you. Go right ahead." She said as Lies smiled at her.

He looked startled between Lies and the cashier. "It's okay though! Uh... Here!" He handed her the money he assumed it amounted to and heads off with Ava after putting everything into bags.

"What gives!? We were out of there! Gosh sometimes I feel like you don't get how good you got it. I can get us anything we want, yet you just want to pay for everything?" She said as they got the bags.

"Cutting in line is not illegal, Ava. You know that." He takes all the bags to hold them, helping Lies home.

"Yes, but we can still get what we need. We're conduits, well you are. But we still have the freedom to get whatever it is we want!

I'll at least teach our child better." She said

"I'm not teaching our child poor morals. You can have your way if they're forbidden but otherwise, no."

"Hmp" She said as she then stopped for a moment to stretch her back as they kept going and eventually went home.

Once they're home, he sets Ava to sit and heads off to put the groceries away.

"My dear, have you ever heard of a Dugo bird?" She asked

"What's a Dugo bird?"

"Its like a crow, but it has a droopy snout and it sneezes cheese." She said

He gave her that "Really?" look, pulling out a fruit cup and hands it to her

"What? I'm telling the truth! Cross my heart my love I swear." She said with a smile that was filled with Jell-O.

He rolls his eyes and sits beside her. "First thing we're teaching them is how to pick out your lies."

"None can pick out my lies, my love. Only if I make it so." She smiled as she ate some more of her fruit cup.

He nods and closes his eyes, sighing

"Oh can you also get me some of my favorite Honey Ice cream" she said

He looked at her and went to get it, bringing it back to her. He already assumed she was just gonna eat it all.

"Thanks" she said. She then took a bite and then shivered a bit. She then put her bowl down.

"My love." She said turning to Grief.

"Yes, dear?"

"I'm about to have the baby, right now. " she said calmly

He looked at her and squints "Awfully calm for labor, are you not?" Grief thought she was lying again.

She signed and stood up, dropped her pants and revealed her water had broken.

"Can we go to the hospital now?" She asked calmly.

He was the one panicking now as he picked her up and took her.

"I say we ask someone to drive us, my love. Over there!" She said pointing at someone getting in they're vehicle.

He Brought her over but he can't bring himself to talk to the person in which he starts to cry.

"Oh my sweet- sir, hand over my keys and car immediately! Are you delusional!?" She screamed as everyone on the street looked at them confused and curious. The man looked at his keys and blinked twice.

"O-Oh, my gosh. I'm so sorry. I uhh. I have a car just like this. I'm here." He said as he handed Lies his keys and walked away confused.

"Here take the keys." She said

"I can't drive!" He was still panicking, him crying more.

"Oh my, HEY YOU!" She screamed back at the man,the man turned around more confused than ever before.

"What kind of Taxi driver are you!? Who leaves a pregnant woman and her crying husband on their own. Come back here and drive us to the hospital or so help me!" She shouted.

The man was so confused, but did as was asked.

He got in with her and covers his face in shame in his seat. "I'm sorry... I'm a disgrace."

"It's ok, everyone's a little bit." She said as she was taking breaths as the man was driving them.

He tries to wipe the tears to no avail. "And now I can't stop crying!"

She turned her body and planted a kiss on his face.

"Dont be sad my love, in a few short moments. We'll have our own new bundle of joy.

Which by the way, SPEED UP! I'M NOT A FUCKING STORAGE UNIT! THIS CHILD ISN'T WAITING FOR ME!" She screamed

"I'm sorry sorry!" The man whined as he drove faster.

He hugs onto her, sniffling.

Eventually they would reach the Hospital, some nurses and doctors would take Lies into a room to proceed with the birth.

He follows them, wanting to be there with her.

"You sure my love? Wouldn't you like to wait?" She said, holding his hand as she breathed.

"I'm sure... I want to be here to see our child." He wiped his face and kissed her hand

"Your my heart, I love you with everything I have and-"

"Hey you can't just barge in here!" A man's voice shouted from outside they're room. Lies looked over in confusion.

"DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM!? I OUGHTA BEAT YOU SILLY BOY! Get out of our way!" Shouted a masculine voice as then the door to their room busted open to reveal the Conduits were all there.

"HI!" They all shouted as some even blew out confetti.

He turns to look at the door. He fell to the floor once they entered, frightened.

"Did he just pee himself?" Asked Pride

"No, he's scared." Knowledge said

"You have nothing to fear, we're here to help." Peace said

"The child mostly...if it's a conduit." Said Death

He got up and dusts himself off, staying quiet

"Pray that it is." Death whispered to him, before Destruction grabbed Death's shoulder and reeled him back a bit.

"Give the man some space. It's a big day. In fact lets all step out and let the magic happen." He said as he winked to Grief before getting all the Conduits out.

He tensed up at Death's comment. He looked up at Destruction and blushes at his wink. "Sooo... Shall we continue?"

"...yes." Lies said as she then began to go into Labor.

He sat there with her, worried the whole time.

Everything was going smoothly then, at one point. It was over and Lies had given birth to her and Grief's child.

Grief kissed her head "Good job, dear..."

Urien however was screech-crying.

"...thanks." Lies said as she held Urien in her arms. She kissed the baby's head and smiled.

All the conduits we're trying to peek inside to get a look at it.

"I can't remember the last time I saw a baby." Life said

"Don't you help out with births like every other day?" Said Greed

"Why is it so tiny?" Asked Bastian

"Will you all get back in here!" Shouted Darkness to which they all squealed and closed the door.

He looked at the door and then at Urien and Ava. "They're beautiful like you."

Urien leaned on Ava, their crying calming down but they were still whining.

"She has your nose." She said as she cradled her. That's when suddenly a large bell could be heard being rung.

"The Conduit bell." Said Destruction outside the room.

"A new Conduit has been born." Said Life, they all then turned over as they could sense the small yet frail energy coming from Urien.

"Its just like how Balance was born, born from a unwanted sack of flesh." Greed said waving he fan around.

"Beauty born from the dirt. How poetic." Beauty said as she fixed her hair.

"Should we let it be raised by the mother?" Asked Darkness

"No, such a gift like that can't be allowed to be soured." Death said

"We do let Quella have a chance with her child. It will only resent us if it were to find out the truth." Destruction said

"Ever since you slept with him, all you've tried to do is defend him. You've gotten soft Walter!" Death said to him. Everyone got quiet, they looked at Destruction. Yet Destruction didn't show any fault in posture or expression.

"Please, I'm trying to make your job a little easier. Give the child its childhood. Let it be raised for a time under its parents. Then, we'll come to bring it with us." Destruction said. Death and Darkness looked at each other. Life looked to Destruction with a small smile, realizing his kindness.

Grief looked out the door after hearing buts of the conversation and glares at them all. "Shame on you for worrying about what we'll do with OUR child when they haven't existed for even 15 minutes. We can talk about it another time. Now if you'll excuse me-" He comes out to grabs Destruction's hand and leads him into the room, tears running down his face.

They all looked at each other.

Destruction closed the door behind them.

"What's going on here little one?" Destruction asked

Urien was still whining and trying to turn away from the lights.

"I assumed you'd want to see them... Since you've helped us every now and then with them." Grief looked up at Destruction.

"...Thank you, it's been a while since I've laid eyes on a baby." He said looking down at Urien. Lies looked at Destruction, still not entirely cool with them, but still fine with them being here.

Grief looked at Lies and gives her a small smile.

Urien eventually stopped crying, slowly falling asleep.

"That's much better." Lies said.

"We'll take her for now mam." One of the nurses said as Lies handed Urien to them.

" I can promise you her childhood, but thats all I can do." Destruction said as he turned to them.

"Not even Quella got that with her son." He said

"I thank you, Walter... For now we're unsure how to raise them. But them being a Conduit just dooms them for a harder life I suppose. For now... I hope we can raise them open minded. This cycle could use a bit of that..."

"No, they'd have a harder life if they were a Forbidden Conduit. They'll be safer this way.

...though there is still some truth to that and unfortunately, I don't think we're gonna be finding any open minded folks anytime soon." He said

"You know what I meant. It's still not an easy thing. Not I would not say our life is harder than a Forbidden Conduit." Grief holds both of their hands.

"..." Destruction looked at him and then to Lies.

"Well, I got something to explain. You two. Enjoy yourselves." He said as he left.

He watches him as he leaves and sighed. He sits in a chair with his head down.

"Don't feel bad. He chose his way." She said

"I can't help it... You know that..." He looked up at her.

"...Yea I do." She said as she laid back getting ready to sleep.

"Go ahead and go home, I'm going to sleep here at the hospital." She said

"Am I allowed to stay?" Grief would ask her.

"Of course. Though you'll be here with the rest of them." She said

"Fair enough... Well... I'll be back for you then." He got up to give her a kiss

She smiles and falls asleep.

He heads out, quietly shutting the door behind him

"Look who showed up." Said a voice in front of Grief. It was Pride and Greed.

He looked up at them both, his shoulders sinking in a slight fear.

"Don't be scared daisy. We just were here to congratulate you. Especially after how hard my daddy fought to make sure you get to spend some time with that...thing." Pride giggled

"Indeed, You both have quite the relationship. I'm honestly jealous, any chance I can get a piece of what you and Daddy D are cooking up?" Greed asked with a smile

He stared at them both and blinked. "Huh..?"

"He's so innocent." Pride said as he walked past him, Greed following.

Destruction was sitting down nearby

He looked at Destruction and went over to him, not getting too close. He was worried he was upset with him.

"Oh hey. What can I do for ya?" He asked

"Are... You okay? You left quite suddenly..."

"Just needed some time to think." He said

"Don't worry, it's not your fault." He said standing.

"What's going on then..?"

"Nothing that concerns you right now. You should be in there with your wife, daughter. Not here with me." He said

"She told me to go home for the night... So she's sleeping... Please talk to me."

"Would you like me to walk you home?" He asked

"Yes..." He looked down and rubs his arm.

"...Maybe it's not me that needs to talk, its you." He said

"Perhaps... We can talk on the way home." He makes his way down the hallway.

Destruction looked around and walks with him.

"Alright we're out and about, let's just walk around the Citadel. Don't got that damn Sun in our eyes. Night’s nice. Times like these I usually am pounding some ass if catch my drift.

But tonight, let's just walk." He said as he started walking down a random street.

He follows behind him, staying quiet. He seemed nervous.

"Speak, come on. Why else are you here?" He asked

"Sorry... What do you want to hear..?"

"Everything, don't leave out any details." He said as he looked up at the Citadel. He then looked over to a statue of Falklore slaying Injustice in the middle of a open plaza. He stared at it for a moment before he kept walking.

"Well... There's not a whole lot since she became pregnant... It's about the same stuff everyday." He kept his head down even while wearing something that covered his face.

"And what's that?" He asked

"She insults me... And threatens me... To the point I can't tell if she's lying or not. She insulted me on the way to the hospital... At the store today... Threatened me before we left the house..." He got quieter as he kept talking.

"Sounds like her. Sorry to hear it's getting to you so bad. I'd tell you to toughen up, but I know you." He said, looking at him.

Grief wiped his face, sniffing. "Sorry..."

"You're sorry about a lot, when are you gonna stop being sorry and just be better?" He asked, crossing his arms.

He got quiet.

"Well?" He said

"I don't know if I can... I'm sorry." He turns to head back home.

Grabs Grief's arm.

"Don't run from me. Stand here and talk." He said

"I don't know what you want me to say..."

"Tell me you want something better for yourself.

You may be in constant grief, but that doesn't mean you have to make yourself suffer through a horrible relationship." He said

"I do... Want something better... I'm just worried about my child..."

"You don't need to worry about that, we'll worry about them. Just protect yourself for once." He said

He holds onto Destruction's arm, trying not to cry.

He wraps his arms around him and hugs him.

"Its ok, the conduits may not be the best. But at least, unlike Forbidden ones. We got your back." He said

"I don't care about the others. They're unkind as well."

"Then you need, you need someone who you can rely on." He said

He hugs him tightly, hiding his face.

"Let it out. It's ok." He said

"I'm sorry... I'm sorry I left you with them... I'm sorry I upset you."

He simply kept rubbing and patting his back.

He just clung to him. He lifts his head to wipe his face again, whining cause it was starting to make his face burn.

"Hey, feel like having some fun?" He asked

"If we can get my face to stop burning..."

"Sure." Destruction said as he used his finger and wiped them away destroying the burning feeling his tears would give him.

"There" he said.

He hugs his arm and nods. "Okay..."

"You sure like holding me, shit that's ok. I love holding you too, if you catch my drift." He said as his hand reached down and massaged Grief's butt.

"Can you pick me up... Like you used to do?" He looked at him, a sad expression still occupying him.

"Heheh, sure ya baby." He said as he picked him up. He then started walking down the street.

He holds onto him, closing his eyes. He relaxed a bit.

Destruction walked around and looked at the lights around the town. It was dark and quiet. Only a few folks about. He didn't see any bars open. He then just kept walking towards wherever his feet took him.

"Where exactly do you plan on going?" He mumbles to Destruction.

"Wherever my feet take me." He said

"I haven't explored this place much... I've been watching Ava..." He still sounded sad

"Well now you'll get a chance. Though you won't have too much fun being on me.

Though if you like it up there, you're welcome to stay" he said

"I like this... I'm just... Tired." He mumbled against Destruction, hiding his face against him.

He smiled as he kept walking along. The night is getting darker and darker.

He turns his head to look at him after a while, smiling at him.

"Glad to see you smiling." He said

"It's rarer these days I'm afraid..."

"I can believe you." He said, patting Grief's head.

He closes his eyes and tightens his hold into a hug

Eventually Destruction would find a nice view, showing the edge of the Citadel, a glance back would show the royal sector and the tree itself. While looking down showed all of the mainland.

"Nice view. Sometimes I forget I can blow it up." He chuckled

He turns his head to glance and got down to stand beside him. "It's a very lovely view..."

"Yes it is. Be better on fire though." He said looking at it all

He gives off a small chuckle before leaning his head against him.

"Sometimes, I wonder if it would be better if I just did what Injustice did.

Go Rogue, follow my own rules. My own way. Kill who needs killing and thst shit!" He said

"But then how would I get to see your handsome face?" He laughs as he slightly tugs on the braid in his beard.

"I'm anything but handsome, but thanks anyway." He said

"Just take my compliment..."

"Nah" he said

"No more hugs"

"Sounds like you're punishing yourself to me." He said as he started walking away.

"Come baaaaack!" He whines and follows him.

He stopped and waited for him to catch up.

"Come on then." He said

He jumped on his back and shuffled til he could cling onto him.

"Alright, where's your house?" He asked

He points in the direction

He then starts walking Grief back home. The two enjoying the views as they pass them.

He was happy.

They both eventually made it to his home.

"looked like this is your stop." He said

He sighed and slides down, going to the door. He turns back to him and looked up at him.

"Have a nice rest little one." He said, rubbing his shoulder.

"Do you have to go..?"

"...you want me to stay? Or do you want me?" He asked

He didn't know how to answer. Instead he just opened the door and gestured for him to go inside.

He shrugged and walked in. He was a little tall, but he could still fit.

He follows him inside and shuts the door behind them. He takes his mask off and looked up at him.

Destruction turns around and looked at him.

"I had almost forgotten what your face had looked like." He said ruffling Grief's hair.

He smiles again and heads to the bedroom to change. "I'm going to take these off."

Destruction shrugged as he just went into the fridge to find something. He then picked up 3 fruit cups.

He comes back out in the shirt he stole from Destruction. "Don't steal all the fruit cups. Ava gets cranky without them."

"I only took three." He said with his mouth full of two. He then sat down on the couch and looked outside.

"Nice view." He said

He sits down beside him and cross his legs up on the couch

He finished his last fruit cup and then destroyed it. Not even leaving ashes or dust.

He closes his eyes.

"Getting tired? Maybe you should hit the sheets." He said as he leaned back.

"Mmm..." He leans against him, grumbling.

He grabs a hold of Grief's shoulder.

"Alright, go ahead and take your rest." He said

"I don't want to..."

"Then what do you want?" He asked

He looked up at him.

"Oh...that depends on you little guy." He chuckled

"I'm not a little guy..."

"To me everyone is little. Especially you" he smiled

He clings onto him

He holds him tight, his hands exploring his back.

He blushes a bit and closes his eyes

He then leans in and kissed Grief.

He kissed him back, moving his arms to wrap around his neck.

He deepens it

He returns it before speaking quietly. "I've missed this."

Destruction looked at him and held him tight

Grief looked back at him, blushing a bit. He was still a little shy.

"What's wrong? Scared?" He said with a tough voice as he slapped Grief's ass and squeezed it.

"No... It's just been awhile... Nervous I suppose..." He leans his head against him, somewhat hiding.

"Don't be afraid, let your fears melt away. Let me destroy them. In the real way." He said kissing his head and then down Grief's face.

He closes his eyes and kissed his cheek. "I trust you..."

"Good." He said as he then began slowly undressing Grief.

Grief hugged himself, seemingly a little self-conscious. It's clear he hasn't done this for awhile.

Destruction then looked at his naked body. He smiled.

"Still as beautiful as when I left ya, or when you left me." He said

"I'm sorry... I know I made a mistake..." Grief hugs onto Destruction.

He shrugged and hugged him still.

He peppers his neck with kissed as he holds onto him.

He smiled

"Are you okay..? I didn't upset you, did I?"

"Not at all" he said kissing him, he then got up and got undressed.

"You ready?" He asked

"Y-yeah... I'm ready... Though do forgive me. It has been long..."

"Don't worry, your body will remember." He said grabbing him

Grief nods and holds onto the other

Destruction and Grief would have yet again another intimate night together

Totally like this doesn't happen often between them lmfao

The morning came and Grief was passed out but attached to Destruction.

Destruction was snoring

He wakes up a bit and looked around. "Mm..?"

Destruction laid back still sleeping

Grief gives him a kiss and carefully got up.

Destruction chuckled in his sleep as he turned over.

He went to the other room to get dressed and he starts to make something to eat

Destruction then woke up, startled a bit, but awake.

"Good morning, sunshine. You hungry?" He started plating some food for himself and waited on Destruction's answer.

"Sure." Destruction said as he shook off his shivers.

"What's the matter? Did you have a nightmare?" He prepares a plate for him and heads back over to give it to him.

"Yea, I had a horrible one. They come up frequently, but Its rare there like this." He said sitting down.

"Would you like to talk about it..?" He sits down and hands him the plate.

"Not really." He said as he started eating.

"Alright then. If you ever want to, I'm all ears." He gestured to his ears and laughs a little.

He chuckles.

He looked at him and went quiet before he starts eating. He feels some tension.

He then got up and finished his playe of food.

He got up and looked up at him. "Are you sure... You're not upset with me..?"

"If I was mad, I'd tell you." He said as he went to put his clothes on.

"You're... Distant. That's why I ask..." He starts washing the dishes, worried.

"No I'm not. Its just that I'm tired. As usual." He said

"As usual? When did that become usual? You used to be so energetic." He went over to him, handing him a cup of water.

"Things have changed. The world is changing.

I have a bad feeling. Of the conduits." He said

"What's this bad feeling..?" Grief asked

"I don't know, but I'm gonna find out." He said

"Do you need any help? I'm sure we can solve whatever it is. We've done it before."

"No, you worry about your child. I'll worry about the conduits." He said

"Then I have to have you promise me something..."

"What?" He asked

"Please... Come back to me in one piece. Don't do anything reckless."

"Yea, I can do that." He said

He kissed his cheek and went to grab his mask, sighing. "I'm sorry for not being there... More often..."

"Your fine" he said smiling

"I feel like I hurt you... And I don't want to do that..." He wipes his tears away to try and stop himself from potentially crying.

"If you hurt me, trust and believe I'd let you know." He said as he made for the door.

"Take it easy, don't do anything I wouldn't." He said

"And you better not do anything I wouldn't, Walter. I'll have your beard made into a rug!" He got ready to head back to the hospital.

Destruction followed him back to the hospital; where the only two people left there were Death and Life who were looking at babies.

Grief glances at them and heads to Lies's room. He didn't wish to talk to them.

Lies was sitting down with Urien in a small baby holder.

"Glad your back, mind holding her." She said as she left the room.

He takes Urien and watches her head out. "Um... Where are you going?"

"Checking in with the office. I'll be back ya bug baby." She chuckled as she left.

He nods and looked down at Urien.

Urien was sleeping soundly though it looked like they fell asleep attempting to eat their hand.

Life knocked in the door and peered in.

"Ollo, howdy there. May I come in? It's just me." She said with her hands up.

Grief looked at the door and sighed. "Yes... Yes it's okay. So long as Death isn't there."

"Oh don't worry, he hates hospitals" she said as she walked in

"Hello... How are you, Miss?" He held Urien against his chest, looking at Life.

Life walked over and touched Urien's face. She smiled at them.

"What a joyful little thing, she's amazing."

Urien stirred in their sleep and opened their eyes to look at her, hand still in mouth.

"Hi cute one. Aren't you just adorable!" She smiled

"They're a beautiful one, I can say for certain. Though I worry." Grief said to Life.

"Why is that?" She asked

”The other Conduits... They want to take our child away..." He said, sadly looking at Urine who was still oblivious.

"...You will still be with them. The mother won't unfortunately." She said, touching the child's head.

"The world isn't perfect, but we're trying to make it somewhat good." She said

"I'm not taking them from their mother. She has a right to see her child too."

"...I understand. Just know, there is nothing I can do, but comfort you and promise you and the child sanctuary." She said

He nods and holds Urien out to her. "I'll let you see them. Just don't take them if you do."

Life smiled widely

"Thank you! I appreciate it." She held Urien and looked at them.

She smiled at the innocence of her

"This reminds me of my own son." She said

Urien pats at her hand, their own hand still drool covered.

Life smiles

"I didn't want him at first, but all life has meaning to it.

Even the corrupted kind." She said with some sorrow

"I just don't want them ripped away from their mother... I hope you can understand why even if Ava is Forbidden..."

"I do. Death may not though." She said

"I don't want him around them."

"You'll have to confront him eventually.

Otherwise, he won't understand your situation." She said

"For now, I wish him to stay away. Wait until they can understand even a little bit."

"He won't unless you talk to him." She said

"Alright... As of right now, I'm waiting for Ava... We still haven't named them."

"That's alright, well I'll get going. Thank you for letting me enjoy this new life." She smiled as she left the room.

He takes hold of Urien and sits to wait

Lies comes back scoffing as she then looked at Grief and Urien.

"My two favorite people!" She said as she hugged them both.

He hugs her back

Urien stares at her and holds onto her.

"Cute." Said a cold voice behind them, they all turned around and saw him. Death.

Grief glares at Death, turning to hold Urien from his sight.

"What do you want?" Lies said

"Nothing, just observing is all. Sorry for the intrusion." He said as he then left the room.

"So... Ava. What do we want to name them?" He Brought back Urien, looking down at them

"Hmmm, how about Eva?" She said

"Hmmm... Too close to your name..."

"What's wrong with my name?" She asked with her hands on her hips.

"N-no! I meant like... It'd g-get confusing is all!" He lifted his free hand in defense.

"Ok then. Come yo with something." She said

"Uh... Urien.....?" He looked a little worried

"Hmmm, yaknow not a bad name. It's not Eva, but it'll do I suppose." Lies said as she smiled

"That can be... Their middle name..?"

"....sure. alright let's go home." She picked up Urien and walked out.

He follows behind, back to being quiet.

Time would pass, and soon Urien would begin to grow up. Turning to the ripe age of 6-7. Her life was relatively peaceful and good. Spending time with her mother and father was something she'd never forget.

And hopefully in recent events....would come to cherishe.

Urien was sitting on the porch outside of their home, staring out at the city.

Lies was in the kitchen preparing some food for everyone.

"Urien, be sure to wash your hands. Dinner is almost ready." She said

"Okay, Momma!" They run inside and go to wash their hands. They run back to Lies and look up at her, showing their hands.

Grief was cleaning up the house, silent. He didn't talk much now unless it was to Urien.

That's when a knock on their door would come.

"Grief, can you get that?" Lies asked

He nods and went to open the door.

At the door stood the inevitable, the unforgiving truth. It was Death and Destruction, accompanied by three other Conduits. Pride, Passion and Wrath.

"It's time, Grief." Death said

He stares at them for a second and then back towards Urien and Ava "At least let them... Have dinner first..." His voice felt forced.

Death looked past them and saw Lies and Urien talking while in the kitchen. He could see the joy in what they were. A family.

Destruction eyes looked to Death for a moment along with Pride and Passion.

"...You have an hour." Death said as he turned around and walked away. Destruction looked at Grief and turned with Death as well.

He closes the door and went back to them both. "It was a... Wrong address situation..."

Lies looked at him and then back to Urien.

"Do you want to wait here for a minute sweetheart, me and daddy need to have a quick discussion." Lies smiled

"Okay, Momma! I'll wait at the table!" They run off.

Grief covers his face, slightly scratching at it. "Just... Please enjoy this dinner."

"Talk to me. I know when you're lying." She said, crossing her arms.

"They're here... For Urien..."

"...I knew it. Well I want you two to enjoy Dinner. I'll get her things ready.

...She's always enjoyed you more than me." She said, patting his shoulder as she walked to Urien's room.

He grabs her arm "No... No you should get to eat with them... I'll still get to see them whenever..."

"No. I want you two to have one last taste of what normal feels like before everything goes to hell.

Please, you've never listened to me. But I'd like for you to now." She said with a stern look

He looked down, shaking his head. "Don't do this now... I just want them to have this last moment. Please..."

"Then you go, I'm not asking." She said

"We both should... We'll pack after..." He leads her back.

She walks back with him and soon they all have dinner together as usual, chatting and talking about the day, Urien's time at school and so forth.

Urien looked at Ava and tilts her head "Are you okay?"

Grief had been putting Urien's stuff together after their dinner.

"I'm fine. Just hoping you'll take care of her once this is all said and done." Lies said to him.

"What will you do? I plan to bring them to visit... For occasions if they'll let me..."

"They won't allow that. Best to just forget about me.

You both will be fine." She said wiping her face

"I'll find a way. You deserve to see our child." He finishes the packing and takes Urien's hand.

Urien looked confused. "Am... I going somewhere, Momma?"

"...Yes, I'm sorry my sweetest, but you are going to be going somewhere I can't follow.

I want you to know that this isn't the last time I'll see you though. You have family where you're going.

You'll be safe. I promise." She said

Urien looked sad and hugs onto her. "Why can't you go..?"

"I just can't, my flower. I'm sorry. I wish it could be different.

I really, really do. But it'll be ok. Daddy will be with you the entire time. I promise." She said

They give a tight hug and then takes Grief's hand.

Grief looked down at Urien and then to Ava. He nods to her before heading out "We'll come back... I promise."

"...be safe you two. Take care of each other." She says weakly.

"I love you, Momma..." Urien waves at her. "Bye-bye..."

"I love you too." She waves as tears fill her eyes.

He closes the door behind them, taking Urien to the others.

Urien sniffed a bit, trying not to cry as well.

The conduits from before were waiting outside with Death behind them looking at the ground.

"So small." Pride thought, looking at Urien.

"Everything finished up?" O'Brien asked as he closed his book.

Urien was looking around at them all, hiding behind Grief.

Destruction walked over kneeled down.

"Don't worry little one. We'll take good care of you." He said, he tilted his head and looked at Urien.

"What's your name? I'm Walter." Destruction asked.

"I'm... Urien..." They look away, still sad.

"Well, Hi there. Don't worry, I'm a good friend of your dad's. I hope you'll give me a chance to be your friend too." He smiled, Pride cringed as he looked away.

"Gross. I can't even remember the last time my father baby talked with anyone.

Maybe besides that idiot Bastian." He thought to himself.

Death and Wrath simply stared.

Urien looked up at Grief.

Grief smiles to them to let them know it was okay.

They look back to Destruction and holds out their hand

Destruction took it gently and gave Urien a warm smile.

"If you're done now. We have to go. I'd rather now have another run in with Falklore today." Death said

"Still can't believe you let that hollow rainbow push you like that." Pride said

"Should have let me go after the bitch, I would have killed her and that stupid son of hers." Wrath said

"Yes then we'd be cleaning you up off the pavement after Falklore was finished with you." O'Brien said, getting a scoff out of him.

Urien smiles back at him. "Papa... He's happy when he says your name... I want to be happy too."

Grief smiles down at Urien and looked at Destruction. "Only wholesome words, I promise."

"Alright let's go, Urien. There are so many people who want to meet you." Destruction said

Soon they all teleported back to the conduit campsite in the Twisted lands.

Urien hid against their father

"OH MY GOSH LOOK AT THEM!" Screamed Love as he looked at Urien

"Oh wow look at them, I could just eat them up." Greed said

"Tch, too weak." Bastian said

"A new one as expected. " Said Knowledge

Urien pulls their head into their hood, whining

"Will you all stop, you're scaring them." Life said as she broke through the crowd and crouched to Urien.

"Hi there. Don't be afraid, they're just excited to meet you." She said.

"Why...?" They peek out at her

"Cause you're a Conduit, you're part of our family." She said

"I dunno..."

"I can answer any questions you want." She smiled, Life then turned around and saw all the conduits still staring.

"Um Walter?" She asked

"HEY! ALL YOU GO FIND SOME GODDAMN BUSINESS!" He shouted at them to which they all then scattered and left.

Urien runs to Destruction, hugging his leg

"We tried to... let them keep as much of their innocence as possible." Grief said

Destruction looked at them on his leg.

Life smiled at them.

"As a conduit yourself, you are now special. Just like us. You have a gift unlike any other. A control over a single thing. Like a doll." She smiled

"I do..? When will I know what I have?" Urien looked up at Life, still attached to Destruction.

"Well thats what we're here for. To help you learn that. We want you to be the most greatest at harnessing your gift as possible." She said with determination in her voice.

Destruction started scratching his head and yawning.

"Oh brother, what a drag." O'Brien said

"Why don't you go make yourself useful and go snag dreams for us." Life said, O'Brien rolled his eyes and started walking.

Grief picked up Urien and stood by Destruction, smiling as he sets Urien on his shoulder

Urien holds tight onto Destruction.

Destruction looked at her and rocks a bit like a horse.

Passion and Bastian looked at their father completely dumbfounded.

"What the fuck is he doing!?" They both thought.

Urien laughs and Grief smiles more at them both.

Bastian walked and looked at Urien.

"So what's this kid's deal? Do they have a conduit?" He asked

"What's it to ya boy? Ain't you got something to do? Scram before I knock you over the head." He said to which Bastian scoffed and walked away.

Urien blows a raspberry at Bastian and hugs Destruction

"I think they like you, dear." Grief said to him.

"I couldn't tell." He said

Soon O'Brien would wheel over the giant tomb that was Dreams. This giant tomb with the engravings of an androgynous individual was haunting to look at it.

Even Life seemed a bit iffy staring at it. Though Death didn't care nor Destruction.

Grief looked up at the tomb and nods to it in respect.

Urien hid their face a little, somewhat intimidated by the tomb

"A new Conduit joins the everlasting dance." Said Dreams, the voice was haunting. It was as if hundreds of men and women and...something else was all speaking at once.

"Welcome to this place of crossing stories, where we individuals who lead the world forward through hell and heaven. Conjoin into a place of which separate worlds meet.

Welcome, Urien." Said Dreams.

"Stilk spooky" Life thought holding her face.

"Hello..." Urien says quietly and Grief Brought them down to present to Dreams.

"You are in the Presence of a Dreamer. They dream into the world it's many futures and it's people's dreams.

Luckily they are pretty nice." Life said

"I don't think they know the term." O'Brien said, opening his book.

Urien nods, looking up at the tomb. Grief takes hold of Destruction's hand, nervously watching his child.

Destruction just states.

"Tell me what you enjoy, dearest one." Said Dreams to Urien.

"I like looking at the city from our house... I like watching Momma cook... I like when me and Papa listen to songs..." Urien was nervous talking to Dreams, fiddling with their hoodie's drawstrings.

"Go on, child. Don't be afraid." Dreams said

"I like... Papa's stories... He talks about Walter often... I like it when Momma is nice to Papa... She's kinda mean to him sometimes... I like... My hoodie and my mask? And uh... Miss Lady over there. She's nice too." Urien points to Life before looking back at Dreams.

Destruction looked at Grief and then back to Urien.

"I see. Now for a question of the utmost importance.

What is your favorite color?" Dreams asked

Grief was embarrassed, looking away from Destruction.

"I like Black... It's a color I see a lot and it looked nice... like my hair!" They pull their hood down to show.

"Very nice.

You, Urien, are the Conduit of Extinction." Dreams

"What does that mean?"

"Means you can break things really good." Destruction said

"That's a horrible way to put it!" O'Brien said

"No, I feel like that was spot on." Life said

"Good grief." Death said

"Good me?" Grief laughs at his own joke.

"I can break stuff? How do I break stuff?" Urien looked up at Destruction  and pulls their hood back up.

"Don't worry, we'll figure that out." He said

Death face palmed at Grief's incompetence of his words.

Life just giggled at everything while O'Brien was mentally done, Dreams had no idea what was happening.

"I wanna learn how! I've seen Momma and Papa use powers! I wanna do that too!" Urien was excited and Grief helped Urien back on Destruction's shoulder.

"And you'll learn, little one! All you need is a bit of time and good teacher." Life said, Death then began walking away.

"Leaving already?" Life asked

"Yea, this isn't my scene." He said as he left. O'Brien looked at him.

"He'll be fine. He's always alone." Destruction said.

"HOW ABOUT WE ALL CELEBRATE WITH SOME GOOD FOOD!?" Destruction shouted in cheer with Life joining in and O'Brien rolling his eyes.

Grief smiles at his energy, enjoying getting to see it again and Urien laughs as they hug onto Destruction again

Everyone decided to go and eat, other conduits even joined in as well to celebrate.

Urien was looking around to get a good idea of what everything looked like. A very curious child

Destruction looked at them and smiled as they let they're curiosity sore.

Urien hugs him to hold on, giggling as they go.

"So any sights you want to see now? Or perhaps maybe you 'd like to meet some more of your family?" he said

"Family..?" They look down at him, confused

"Yea, there's family everywhere here. Even some hiding around that shouldn't be. So what would you like to do?" He said

"Mmmm... I guess I can meet some... Papa says they're mean though..." Urien probably heard from Grief about the Conduits who weren't so kind so that's what they think of most of them

"Not all conduits are mean, little one. Some are like me, hard on the outside, but soft on the inside. Then you have ones like Life here, golden to the core. A sweetheart to the bitter end...then there's Death. We don't talk to the ones like Death. They suck." He said

"Death sucks!" They laugh and hug him "I have another question.  Do you like my Papa?"

"I, I do like him. He's a close friend. That's all I'll say." He said

"Thank goodness." O'Brien said while Destruction glanced back only for O'Brien to look away. Life giggled.

"Why did you say friend like that?" They look down at him

"Just cause." He said

"Oh my god! Get a room already!" O'Brien shouted

"HEY! NOT IN FRONT OF THE CHILD!" Destruction shouted

"Hehehe" Life chuckled

"If you keep at that, it'll be your room." Grief looked back at O'Brien, glaring. He only said this, knowing Urien didn't know what it meant

"UGH! I'm good." He said walking away

"AHAHAHAHAHAH!" Destruction laughed loudly

"Nice one." Life smiled

Grief pulls his mask off, smiling to both of them. Urien looked at their father and pulls their mask up too but looked confused instead

They all continued to talk as they got to the place where everyone eats.

"Welp, feel free to chow down kiddo." He said

"Okay!" They shuffle their way down and run over to the rest.

Grief looked up at Destruction, holding his hand out to him

Destruction looked at him and takes his hand.

He smiles brighter and leads him after Urien

"Hey check it out, it's the small fry." Said Justice

"So tiny" Wrath whispered

"I bet they can't even pick up a sword." Radiance said.

Urien looked up at them all, looking a bit nervous as they pull their mask back down a bit to hide behind it

"Don't pay them any mind. They're just jealous they aren't the center of attention anymore." Destruction said

"Is that true..?" They peak from underneath the mask

"Always has been. Especially when they act this childish." He said

They smile and pull their mask off, setting it aside to get stuff to eat.

Grief takes the mask to hold onto it. He looked up at Destruction and sets the mask on his head

"I don't think this would fit my big head." He said

"I know something that might though~" He laughs a bit and went helps Urien out with getting food. (Cause Urien is still short)

Destruction looked at him a bit shocked at the innuendo, but also smiled at the sign of growth from Grief. He folded his arms as he smiled.

Urien Brought some of the food back to Destruction, holding it up to him. The dish looked like a mess but Urien was trying

"You trying to feed me?" He asked

"Mhm! I'm not much hungry. So I got you some!"

"Oh thanks. I'll eat all of it." He said as he then grabbed it by the hand and ate all the food on the plate. Wrath and Bastiean clapped their hands in respect. Knowledge rolled his eyes.

"YEEEAH!" Urien runs off, excited

"The first time a child's been at the camp in a while, huh?" Grief said to him

"Yea, hopping she doesn't run into trouble" Destruction said wrapping his arm around Grief's waist.

"It's...inevitable. But I'm hoping they'll have plenty of time to learn how to defend themselves somewhat..."

"Agreed" he said

"Thank you... by the way." Grief says to him

"Of course. back to my tent then?" He said

"What about Urien? Will they be okay out here on their own?"

"Life is watching them, let's get to my tent now." he said walking there

He nods and follows him

They both eventually reached his tent. Which had changed a bit as it was now decorated with even more hideous creatures.

"Welcome back." He said as he sat down on his bedspread.

"Stars, it's been years..." He looked around the tent before sitting beside Destruction, now looking at him

Destruction then collapsed backwards and laid down.

"What a fucking day!" He shouted as he grabbed a bear's head and held it to his chest.

He smiles and lies down beside him, giving him a kiss on the cheek

He smiles before closing his eyes.

"A good rest will do." He said curling up

He hugs onto him and closes his eyes "It's been so long..."

"Since?" He asked

"Since we got to just lie down here... in each other's presence."

"Indeed." He said, Destruction pulled the bear's head in two and looked back at Grief.

He looked at him and gave him a soft smile

Destruction smiles back at him and touches Grief's hair.

"Do I frighten you?" He asked

"Not at all, my dear" He places a hand on his cheek in return

Destruction looked at him. His eyes staring into him

Grief blushed a bit as he stared back at him

He looked at Grief and smiled, However at that moment flashes of a horrifying face would flash in his face replacing Grief. Destruction would get up startled. His eyes were dilated. Coated and dripping with fear.

"Are you okay?" He sits up, worried

"I....I'm sorry. Just a bad memory. It flashed In my mind for a moment." He said shaking his head

He looked around,  not really knowing what to do

Destruction took some breaths and then laid back down.

He hugs onto him, worry crying now

"I'm alright, Don't worry." He said, patting Grief's head.

"What was this... memory..? What happened..?"

"An old fight, back when I was a younger and more foolish Conduit.  It was a woman, a demoness. Lilith was her name. She is the only woman, to have ever beaten me in mortal combat." He said

He looked worried and places a kiss on his forehead. "I hate seeing you upset... I would take the pain if I could..."

"It's alright, not all problems can be helped with talking." He said

"I... I know..." He sits up and looked down

"Hey, tell me something." He asked

"Y-yeah..?"

"What have you heard...about demons?" He asked

"Not much... why?" He looked back at him

"Lilith, the one I dreamt about. It...she is a demonic force beyond what I or maybe even death can stop.

I tried to kill her once, but it...only left me scared. She is one of the foulest and most cruel of that bastard, the Eldest son's, black army." He said with some fear in his voice.

"I... I see..." He looked down again, pulling at a piece of his own hair

"...Sorry, I didn't mean to kill the mood with my...Nightmares." he said

"N-no... It's okay... I tend to ruin moods too..." He lays back down, looking at him

He then flops onto the floor. Purging his mind of his evil thoughts and memories.

"Are... You okay now, dear..?"

He looked at his scared arm and turn back to Grief.

"...ughhh FUCK! I hate this shit." He growled as he turned over.

"Should... should I go..?" Grief just looked at him

"No, it's ok. Let's just relax." He said

"Then can you at least look at me..?"

He turned over and looked at Grief.

He looked back at him and gave him a kiss

"Ahh, thank you." He said as he held Grief.

He sets his head against his chest, hugging onto him

Destruction lies there. Falling asleep.

He falls asleep too

Urien on the other hand was exploring throughout the camp

Life was following them around Camp.

Urien looked up at her and tilts their head "Hi, Miss Lady"

"Howdy there." She said as she walked next to her.

They find a frog and pick it up to show to Life

Life picked it up and kissed it. She then lets it go.

Urien is now chasing the frog

Life watches in joy

They look up at her again and ask "How do you know Papa?"

"Through Walter mostly." She shrugged as she too began to chase the frog.

They chase the frog with her "Walter is important to you all?"

"He's important, not to everyone, but important anyway." She said, they eventually chased the frog out of Conduit camp near a massive willow tree with a large stone under it. The frog dipped into the pound behind it.

Urien looked at the stone and walks up to it. They place their hand on it in curiosity

"This is...this place feels...dead." life stuttered, as she did the frog who had jumped into the pound would soon crawl out; only to reveal it had been burned to the bone and its eyes popped out of its sockets as it died.

Life gasped in fear at the scene, the pool of water turning a murky and dark blood-like red.

Urien runs back to Life and holds onto her

With that a figure would begin to emerge from the dark pound. Large demonic wings that looked like fingers would sprout from their back; the figure's body would begin to shape itself into that of a female's as its figure cracked and snapped irs body into position.

Soon the body would grow clothes and two pairs of horns. Then as it moved it's hands to its face to remove the muck from it, large red and menacing eyes woukd appear.

Then the woman would shake off the rest of the muck to reveal herself completely. A large woman, larger than even Life herself and had long black hair. Bleeding red eyes and Gothic like attire.

"Wellll... what have we here? A little guppy and a wore for animals? Heheh." Chuckled the woman.

Urien tries to hide behind Life, whining. They pull  their mask back over their face in hopes to not be able to see the woman.

"Lilith...Why are you here? Especially this close to the conduit camp?!" Life asked, Lilith flew up and landed on the boulder near them. Her hand extended up to grab an apple from the willow tree. Life looked confused, but then shook it away.

"Oh don't act like that. I just came by to smell the roses." Lilith chuckled as she threw the apple up and down.

"Don't play with me!" Life shouted

"Oh don't be such a bitch, you just might live a little longer." Lilith said

"That's a bad word!" Urien peeks at her. They were angry behind their mask as they hug onto Life

Faster than Life could react, Lilith would grab Urien, shoving Life out of the way. Life slid across the ground.

"Now isn't that cute." Lilith said, "Such a pretty mouth you must have, I'll have to give you a kiss." Lilith said as she then grabbed Urien's mask and ripped it off.

Urien started struggling to try and get out of her grasp, crying. "Miss Lady!!!" They managed out as they tried swatting at Lilith

Lilith chuckled only to get popped in the mouth by Pride who was nearby hearing them. Lilith jumped back and wiped her mouth. Pride caught Urien and looked at them.

"You alright little thing?" Pride asked

Urien was crying and freaking out to the point that couldn't manage any words

"Right. Here!" Pride said throwing them to Life who caught them.

"Take them back, I'll handle this." Pride said

"Handle me? Hehehe, good luck soldier boy!" Lilith said

Life ran back to find Grief And Destruction

They're holding onto Life tightly

Life soon found Destruction and Grief.

"OH THANK GOODNESS!" She said as she then set Urien down.

"What's going on?" Destruction asked

"It's Lilith!" Life said

"...That swine." He said

Grief holds onto the trembling Urien and worriedly looked at them both "What do we do about this?"

"KILL THEM!" Destruction shouted

"Call the authorities!" Life shouted as the two then looked at each other.

"Woman, WE ARE THE AUTHORITIES!!!" Destruction shouted.

Urien runs to hide somewhere in the tent with Grief watching them go, a bit startled.

Destruction walked out of the tent and towards where the action was happening.

Grief follows him out with Urien hidden in the tent

Lilith and Pride fought one another until Lilith had Pride face in the dirt. However that's when she noticed Destruction.

"Ah Walter what a pleasant-" however before she could finish Destruction jumped up and attempted to smash her into the ground; she leaped out of the way which caused Destruction to destroy the stone under her.

He then looked over and saw her slid against the ground for a bit before standing.

"Rude!" She said

"Shut up she-devil" he said

Grief watches them for a second to think. He stares down at Lilith, tears running from his eyes as he forces the internal feeling of sorrow into an aura around the area

Destruction destroys the effect Grief's powers would have on him, but also destroys whatever barrier of resistance that Lilith had or would have around herself to prevent Grief's powers from affecting her.

Lilith then began to weep, but would try wiping away the tears. However Destruction would rush them and suckered punch her dead in the face.

"ROTTEN WHORE! GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!!!" He shouted.

Grief looked up and focuses some of the Aura further up, causing any birds possibly flying to dive down to the ground at Lilith. He was trying to be distracting more than damaging

Lilith looked around and used her wings to swat away the birds. Destruction then summoned a massive ball of destruction the size of a house and sent it flying.

"PERISH SPHERE!" Destruction shouted as he then fired the massive sphere at Lilith who would use her wings to block it. However the molecules and atoms in her body woukd begin to combust as she resisted the Perish sphere.

Grief glares at her and starts to concentrate the aura around her body only, starting to cause pressure

Lilith looked at him in a pissed mood. She then fired a red hot beam of energy.

However just as it was about to hit, Pride would get up and deflect it protecting Grief. Lilith help her head as the grief overcoming her becomes worse.

He maneuvers it to encapsulate her mind, wiping his tears from his face

Lilith then falls to her knees holding her head, however as she did the Perish sphere would overtake her and then completely eradicate her. Erasing her from the Twisted lands for good.

"NICE JOB PA!" Pride shouted

"Hmp, Good work everyone." Destruction said

He shakes his head, wiping his tears away "I... actually did something..."

Pride smirked at him.

"Heh, guess you did. Nice job runt." He said, punching him in the arm.

"Ow-" He rubs his arm and went over to Destruction

"Nice work team" Destruction smiled

He hugs onto Destruction

Destruction looked at him and waves for even one to follow him back to camp. They all soon make the report of what had happened.

Grief still rubbed at his eyes.

"How fascinating, good work for finding and getting rid of them.

You guys did great." Death said

Grief looked at Death, silent

Death looked back at him

He heads back to Destruction's tent to check on Urien

Destruction looked back and forth at them.

"OK! Let's get out of your hair now." Destruction chuckled as he then walked them both out of his tent.

"Death staring at....Death isn't going to make you feel better, Grief." Destruction said

"I'm still mad at him... but that's not what's important right now..." Grief helps Urien out of their hiding place and hugs them tight

Urien was still crying out of fear. They knew it was over but they were still pretty shaken.

"Hey there little one. It's all over. I'm sorry, I should have been there." He said taking a knee to them.

Urien looked up at him and reaches for him to join the hug, sniffling.

Destruction hugged them both. Through the tent though Death watched and saw them. He then backed away and walked towards a tree. There O'Brien and Knowledge were reading.

"What did I tell you? Ever since we grabbed that rotten Conduit of Grief, Walter has wound up soft." O'Brien said, Death looked at him.

"He'll die to see Grief and Urien remain happy Death.

And you know that too." Knowledge said

"Walter is...a reliable source. So long as he stays true, there isn't a problem with who he's interested in." Death said

"But what if that interest cost him his life? What then Death?" O'Brien asked, Death looked at him and looked back to Destruction's tent.

"You have only two options, either you can call back Envy, or you can talk to him and tell him to cut it off for good.

Besides, who ever heard of the Conduit of Grief being happy." O'Brien said

"Not me." Knowledge said

"Exactly, do the right thing or better to say. The smart thing. Bring this to a end." O'Brien said as he got up and threw an apple core on the ground. Him and Knowledge then walked away.

Death looked down.

Urien starts to calm down, hugging onto both of them

Death walked inside.

"Walter, a word please." Death said, Destruction turned around and looked at them.

"I'll be back." He said walking out with Death.

Grief squints and moves to beside the entrance to hear

Urien lied down on the bedspread, staring upwards

"What is this about?" Destruction asked

"Your connection to Grief and that child. You need to drop it, now." Death said

"Forget it. I told them I'd be there for them." Destruction said

"And what about the rest of the world? The other nations and valleys of people praying for Destruction to come and save them?

Will they have to wait so you can father a child that isn't yours?!" Death said

"DON'T TRY TO TWIST THIS ONE ME!

I never asked for this gig! No one did. Yet here we are, following you around like we're your little soldiers! WELL GUESS WHAT!?

I ONCE MADE UP MY OWN FUCKING RULES! I raped, pillaged, killed and destroyed whatever I liked and now look at me!" Destruction shouted, Life was there, holding a hand over her mouth as she watched the both of them in terror and sorrow.

"NOW I'M A SLAVE! Battle after battle and what do I come home to? Some bitch who only fucked with me so she could get back AT YOU!" Destruction shouted yet Death said nothing.

"Seems like it's a constant with you! Everything in my life is screwed up because of you! You and your righteous thinking! WELL GUESS WHAT! IT'S OVER, IT’S A WRAP! I'M DONE!" Destruction shouted, all the Conduits looked out at them, all of them shocked and surprised.

"And what are you done with?" Death asked

"I'm done being a Conduit...I'm done taking orders and I'm done being a slave." Destruction said with a cold and menacing tone.

Grief starts to worry and they peek out only a little to make sure he wouldn't be noticed

"I'm sorry my friend, but it's not that easy." Death said before Destruction stomped on the ground and got in Death's face. The shockwave scared everyone.

"WE'RE NOT FRIENDS! NEVER HAVE BEEN AND NEVER WILL BE!

And I'll show you just how easy it is!" Destruction said

"I can't let you abandon the world, even worse. I can't let you grow weaker or soft over a man and child who aren't even your own." Death said

"I'm glad you've grown up and gotten to understand what it means to grow a real bond with someone.

But now..." Death then turned his head and saw O'Brien and Knowledge staring at him amongst the crowd of conduits.

"...Now it's time for you to know what it means to lose those bonds." Death said as he got himself ready to battle.

"I've lost much before." Destruction said as he then summoned powerful spheres around his fist.

"Oh Walter, there's more to lose in life than just Freedom." Death said

Death and Destruction stared down at each other. One fighting to make the other a slave once more and the other fighting for his freedom once again.

All the Conduits watched in complete awe and shock.

"I can't remember the last time I saw them fight!" Said Lust

"A fight for the ages." Said Archetypes, Darkness walked up next to O'Brien.

"What do you think? Think he'll win?" Asked O'Brien.

"...It's been hundreds, possibly thousands of cycles since they're last fight.

Destruction is stronger, but Death is always a constant.

Honestly. It's hard to tell." Darkness said as he watched his brothers get ready to battle.

He exits the tent to see what's happening.

Urien scoots towards the entrance to watch as well

Death gripped his scythe tight.

Destruction clenched his fist even tighter.

"If you wish to be free then you will have to kill me, Walter." Death said

"And You'll have to do the same if you want me." Destruction said, the two stared at one another. The tension of the situation skyrocketed with every breath and second.

Grief sighed sadly and went inside to grab Urien and heads back out "If we're causing problems... I think it's best if we just leave. Since none of you know how to mind your own business." He looked at O'Brien in particular "Sorry that people being happy is such a burden on you." He heads off with Urien.

Destruction looked at them.

"DAMN YOU, DEATH!" Destruction shouted at him as he then swung at him.

"This job is thankless, why in the hell should one man feel happiness while the rest of us suffer?

This world is not a fairytale. It's a tragedy." Death thought as he watched Destruction's fist fly at him. He then quickly dodged it and through a quick maneuver he would quickly have his scythe around Destruction's neck.

"...I..." Destruction stuttered in shock.

"Sorry, things just can't change. Nothing can." Death said.

However on the other side of camp, as Grief and Urien were leaving a voice called to them.

"Wait, don't leave just yet. Let me guide you." Said a dreamy voice.

"I'm not doing this shit." He sits just at the edge

Urien pulls away and runs back to the camp and grabs at Death, upset

"Please, they will not accept it. Let me guide you somewhere better." Said the voice of Dreams as it was fully revealed.

Death looked down at Urien.

Grief looked after where Urien went "But I don't want to leave Walter..."

They looked up at him, sad "He protects me and Papa... why are you trying to hurt him?"

"Walter has done everything to keep you safe. To protect your family. To keep Urien alive.

You must do the thing he won't ever be able to. Let him go. If you don't, leaving him will not be all you worry about." Dreams said

"I'm not hurting him, I'm liberating him. I'm setting him free." Death said

"Free? FREE!?" Destruction said getting up and pushing away from Death.

"You sound just like that snake O'Brien. I bet he put you to this! Made you think I was weak!" Destruction shouted, O'Brien watched from the background.

"Cause you are Walter, if you don't let go of this...this bond you have to these then you'll never be able to finish anything!" Death said

"I CAN FINISH ANYTHING! JUST LIKE HOW I'M GOING TO FINISH YOU!" Destruction shouted

"Why do all of you want to ruin the only good thing I have?! I finally have something that doesn't constantly cause me misery and every single one of you wants to ruin it!" Grief held their head, trying to stop themselves from crying

Urien looked between them both, unsure of what to do

Destruction looked back and forth at Urien and Death.

"Urien...take your father and go." He said

"Don't do anything rash now Walter."  Death said

"Oh you know better Death." Destruction said

"No! We're supposed to be family! You aren't acting like family!" Urien stomped their foot in anger "NONE OF YOU ACT LIKE FAMILY!! YOU ACT LIKE JERKS!!"

"URIEN! GO NOW!" Destruction shouted

"I won't let you do what you want any longer." Death said

They cross their arms and stand there.

"You do not have to choose, child." Said a voice, everyone looked over and saw Balance walking towards them.

"This doesn't concern you." Death said

"The balance of any situation concerns me, Reaper." Balance said. The white knight took a knee to Urien and looked at them.

"What is it that you wish for most out of this situation?" He asked

"I want Walter to be happy... and the mean man to trust him... Papa is unhappy... I am too..." Urien looked down, rubbing their face with their sleeve

"Balance is a subjective thing. But in cases like these-"

Death looked at Balance ready to strike him too.

"It can be quite objective who and what is wrong.

Or what may be unfair." Balance said as it then used its power to make things "fair". As it was though trust was still to be gained.

The events of what happened didn't just happen again, but they happened differently. A new outcome was made. One where a peaceful ending was reached. Sort of.

Death and Destruction would talk more to see eye to eye. With Urien and Grief being able to now stay with less eyes on them.

Urien sat there silently as Grief went over and picked them up

Balance stood up and backed a bit.

Urien looked at Balance and holds their hand out "I'm Urien..."

"I'm Hugo" Balance said, extending his hand to Urien.

They smile and shake his hand "It's...nice to meet you, Hugo..."

Grief looked between them both, a little confused

"Pleasure is mine." He said

Urien tilts their head and remembers their mask and is sad again

"Forgive them, they've had a long day. You're Balance, correct?"

"Yes, You are Grief right?" He asks

"Yes... Though sometimes I wish I wasn't, ehehe... People aren't so kind to me here"

"All Conduits face conflicts. Rather that be here or somewhere else." He said

"Yeah... I sort of got that..."

Urien was just staring at Balance

"Good. Once you realize that. This world becomes a little more...tolerable." Balance said

Urien got down from Grief hold and circles Balance to look at him "You look so cool!"

"Likewise." He said

"You think I look cool? I had a mask but... a lady took it so... it's gone now"

"I can make you a new one. I'm quite the cobbler." He said

They get excited, looking up at him "You can??"

"Yup, shall we?" He said, giving his hand.

Urien looked at Grief for permission and Grief nods to them. They hold his hand, even more excited.

Balance takes Urien to his tent where they see a lot of nice trinkets, gizmos and whatchamacallits.

"Welcome in" he smiled

They look around the tent in wonder and let go of his hand so they can look around.

He goes over to his desk and begins trying out a few things.

They go over to the desk and tip toe to see what he was doing

Balance was getting measurements.

"So... are you family too?" They look up at him

"Not entirely to you, but yes" Balance said

"Not to me... Hmmm... Who are you? Besides name?" They go back to watching him work

He keeps making them their mask.

"I'm the Child of Blasphemy and Peace. One of them is a Forbidden Conduit.\* he said

They gasp "Like my Momma!"

"Yes, exactly. " he smiled

"So you're like me??" They look up at him again

"I am." He said

They jump in their place, happy

Balance smiles before he hands Urien a new mask.

They look it over before putting it on, looking up at him afterwards "Yay!"

Balance smiled at them before turning around.

"Now what will you do? Relax or train?" He asked

"I've never trained before... but I've managed stuff like this!" They go outside of the tent and bring in a rock "Papa told me not to do it in the house after I ruined one of Momma's pillows on accident..." They stare at the rock, concentrating on it as it falls to dust and disappearing before it hits the ground

Balance claps as he watches.

"Marvelous show. It looked like Destruction's power, but I reckon that's not the case." He said

"They said I was... the Conduit of Extinction. I dunno what that means though..."

" Extinction. It means to completely wipe out. It's much more different than destruction." He said

"Really? How?"

"Destruction is self explanatory, destroy stuff, but extinction. Is for that same thing to be gone. Forever.

That's what makes you a little more deadly." He said

They look at their hand and back up at him "Is... that bad?"

"Depends how you see it." He said

"Many things can be good, but turn out bad" He said

"Well... I don't want to be bad..." They sit down on the floor

"Then don't be. No one is stopping you at the end of the day.

No one but you." He said

"Okay... I'll do my best then!"

"Glad to hear." He smiled.

They get back up to look around some more

Balance then looked back and around the camp.

"What now?" They go over and look at him

"Train, grow and get stronger. We'll meet again." He said as he walked away.

They tilt their head and run back to Destruction's tent

Destruction was sitting down, his eyes closed thinking.

Urien climbs into his lap and hugs him

"Hey kiddo" Destruction smiled

"I met Balance today!" They look up at him

"Oh you did? How did that sad sack do? He make you balanced?" He asked

They nod and point to their mask "He made me this too! I also showed him my powers!"

"Nice, I'm glad to hear you had some fun. Cause Tomorrow, you and I will be training." He said

They gasp and get excited "YAY! I GET TO TRAIN WITH DADA!"

Destruction smirked as he looked at Urien.

"Be nice to them, Dear. They're still young." Grief kissed Destruction's cheek, knowing exactly what that look meant

"Huh? Oh yes of course. No worries. I'll be sure they understand the basics. I'll even have Pride and Bastian join in too." He said

"Are they nice..?" Urien looked up at him, a little worried now

"They will be." He said as he touched his beard.

They start to play with his beard, giggling

"Hmmm." He was thinking hard

Grief hugs him from behind, setting his head on his shoulder

Destruction smiled, for once in his life. Even though he was still a slave to the world. He felt like he was a little bit in it.

Joy

He kissed his cheek, smiling too

Destruction laughed as he wrapped his arms around both Urien and Grief smiling wide.

"Are you feeling better, my dear?" Grief asked

"Yea a bit" he said

"Good. I've had enough sadness causing for today."

"Likewise. " he said, scratching his chin.

Urien pulls on the braid in Destruction's beard

Destruction then falls backwards getting ready to sleep.

Urien got up and looked for where they should sleep

Destruction began to snooze away

Grief lays next to Destruction, falling asleep