Story
Chapter 17: A Glimmer Amidst the Grey
Ozzy sees a glimmer of hope as his sister fights relentlessly to free him, a glimmer that shines even brighter as some unexpected allies join the battle!
Nyx
Ummm, who the heck is this old, dishevelled guy? And why is he playing music?
Orion
I go by many names, but we have no time for such games! First, we must tame this errant Gallion, so for now, you can address me as my host, Orion.
Nyx
Wait, I’ve heard your music before!? You were there during the crash and–and again in the tunnels!
Orion
Yes, yes, I’m a being of many talents; you're welcome. But please focus on the task at hand. I can not stay like this for long, as I’m still a few notes short of a ballad.
Weakened Fyora
Orion? Why– How are you here?
Orion
Well, I was not planning on intervening again, but then that vile faerie had to go and call on my old friend here, and I simply couldn’t pass up the opportunity to whittle him down a size or two.
Orion
And you, my dear, radiant Iridesia, I’m so glad you are here. I have been looking forward to meeting you. Congratulations on the transformation. You are truly a work of art.
Iridesia
Meet me? I–I don’t understand. How do you know m–
Orion
Ah, no need to ponder on it. All that matters is that your brilliant colour can help return at least some of the much-needed vibrancy to this world!
Ozzy
Vibrancy?
Orion
Yes, vibrancy, as in the quality or state of being vibrant - often used when referring to bright, intense colours. Do you understand?
Ozzy
…?
Orion
*sigh* Your time will come, darling. For now, just listen to my words.
Ozzy
Okay…
Luxinia
But why does this rest on Iridesia’s shoulders?
Iridesia
It’s okay, Luxinia. I’ll do whatever it takes to help.
Orion
Oooh, you two are so serious. How endearing. No need to fret, even if she gave every ounce of colour she–
Iridesia
Oh, um, they actually… ‘They’ feels right now.
Orion
Ah, of course, lovely. My apologies. Even if they gave every ounce of colour they had, it wouldn’t be enough. So, unfortunately, the rest of you lot still have to chip in and fight, you hear me?
Iridesia
But what exactly do I need to do?
Orion
You see, this big ball of Void debris has tried to enter this world before. In fact, one of his little excursions to this land had quite the influence on a certain Vandagyre community, as you may recall.
Orion
But he could never last long outside of the cold embrace of the wasteland that is now the Void. The Void wasn’t always like that, you know. Ah, ah, ah, I’m getting off track.
Orion
Anyhow, the fact of the matter is that his ugly mug can only exist in worlds devoid of vibrance. And before now, Neopia was too bright and colourful for him to survive.
Orion
But now he can not only survive here, but thrive. And if left unchecked, he will devour this world until there is nothing left.
Orion
However, if we can push him far enough, he may give us an opening to banish him before he envelops everything.
Orion
Yet, I don’t believe that will be possible until this land is healed. Luckily for now, we have you, O stunning Iridesia!
Iridesia
I’m back to not understanding.
Orion
Your newfound magic is akin to the pure energy and colour of this world, and one of the only things that will do any real damage to him.
Nyx
But you said that won’t be enough to defeat him?
Orion
Hey, good listening skills! Yes, but their magic paired with your cute little power-up thingy (and, of course, my charm and knowledge), should be enough to hold him back long enough for darling–
Vocivus
AlqOgD!! UaGqlA fqO HaTpotKxS jANy!!!
Orion
Ah darn, it appears I’ve gone off key. I guess this won't quite be the knight in shining armour moment it appeared to be. Oh well, I’m sure you’ll figure out the rest. Don’t forget to do your best!
Nyx
Wait, long enough for what??