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Read this file after completing "Heart of Stone"

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The power of the storm continuing to rage outside was nothing compared to the 
intensity of the battle that had been waged within the castle. No moment in 
the conflict was more vicious, brutal, and passionate as the final climatic 
battle.

As the horrific visage of the demon collapsed with a moan of agony, Logan 
felt a surge of power course throughout his soul at this accomplishment. Such 
strength and might the demon possessed, but it was still not enough to destroy 
him. What was this power that had seen him through the battle? Courage? Skill? 
Determination? Will? Or a combination of all four?

Game over! he cried as the demons body was engulfed in swirling light that 
roped around its body like growing vines before exploding outward with a 
bright flash. Logan shielded his eyes with one arm as the surrounding area was 
illuminated as if a giant bolt of lightning had flashed within the throne room 
itself.

The light faded after only a couple of seconds, returning darkness to the 
throne room. The only lights were that of the hanging torches from the arches, 
candelabras, and the occasional flashes of lightning from outside.

Logan uncovered his eyes and looked to where the demon had lain within its 
final moments. He saw the form of Garibaldi struggling to push himself up. 
Amazingly, Garibaldis human form had suffered no damage. His demon form had 
shielded his humanity, absorbing all the damage.

Cautiously, Logan approached his fallen arch-enemy.

No... Garibaldi uttered. It cannot be! Even with that magnificent body and 
all that power, I cant even defeat you?

Logan and Garibaldi locked eyes with each other. Logan was in shock at what 
Garibaldi had become under the influence of the power of the Sword of Darkness,
at what the cost of his soul had warped him into after ten long centuries. 
Had it been invoked by the will of his master?

Nevertheless, Logan had triumphed even despite all odds.

Its over Garibaldi, he said. As we speak, your grip over this land is 
weakening. By morning, Iconoclast shall be free as your curse is undone. All 
your work has been for naught!

Garibaldis eyes suddenly became steel and his face became contorted with 
fury. No, it cannot be! he roared as he forced himself up to his feet. I 
have been waiting a thousand years! I will not allow my work to be undone by 
you now!

Surrender, its over! said Logan in triumph. Youve lost. Good has 
triumphed over evil.

Evil? Garibaldi scrunched his face in disgust. I am not in alliance to the 
forces of evil!

And Im not the one who slaughtered the king and queen of this land, cursed 
the entire realm, and is now intent on exterminating the human race!

You really think you are any better or different from me or any of the others 
Logan? Garibaldi smiled a sinister grin. Look at yourself Logan and the 
blood staining your hands! Did you spill it all for the good of humanity, or 
for your own selfish desire?

Selfish? Logan asked incredulously. Whats that supposed to mean?

Think about it Logan, said Garibaldi. What is it you are truly fighting for?
Tell me the truth. Have you been fighting to protect a species that long lost 
its right to exist? Have you been trying to free this land all just so you can
go home? Or are you fighting merely for the sake of revenge? What was it you 
said? That doing all this would not only give meaning to the death of the 
woman you loved, but to your own life?

What is it that I am truly fighting for? Logan asked himself. Am I trying to 
save this land and break his power all so I can go home? Katrina? Myself? 
Humanity?

He opened the locket around his neck and looked upon Katrinas face. Have I 
done all this just to avenge Katrina? Have I been fighting mainly for 
retribution, nothing more?

Dont listen to him Logan, a voice inside his mind told him. Youve done 
nothing wrong! You were only doing what you set out to do. You selflessly 
fought back on Earth and throughout this land to protect mankind. Without 
your efforts, this land would not be soon free! If not for your struggle, 
the Scourge would soon wipe out humanity. Youve only done what Katrina would 
have wanted.

Whatever pain coursing throughout his body inflicted by Garibaldis condemning 
words had vanished. He smiled to himself and closed the locket before glaring 
towards Garibaldi once more.

I know what Im fighting for Garibaldi, he said. Maybe originally it was to 
avenge Katrina and save humanity. But now, I realize that I had much more to
fight for. Murlock, Edward, Minerva, and the spirits of the king and queen of 
this land are counting on me to dispel your magic over this land and restore 
the land. Everything youve worked for shall soon be undone. And yet, you 
think Im the bad guy? 

Self-righteous bastard!

Logan shook his head in disgust. You live in your own little world dont you 
Garibaldi? Youve forever cast yourself as the heroic victim and martyr in a 
cruel world where everybody not in the Scourge is your enemy. But know this 
Garibaldi: there are still a lot of good people in this world and in all the 
human race. Edward, Minerva, Murlock, the king and queen of this land, and 
Katrina. Regardless of all its flaws, mankind is worthy of preservation. I 
believe that there is both good and evil in everybody, its up to us to choose 
who we are. Why we do follow the path we choose does not matter.

He looked into Garibaldis eyes, searching for some clue as to whether his 
enemy knew what he was talking about. You told me so yourself Garibaldi that 
humanity is a cruel species. But the only fact that supports your theory is 
people like you!

Garibaldi didnt say a word in reply. He only stood staring at Logan in 
astonishment.

Is that what you truly believe? he finally asked.

Yes, I do. It never did have to be this way Garibaldi. You did bring all this 
upon yourself. You were the one who chose to sacrifice everything all for the 
love of a woman who never loved you to begin with. If anyone is to blame for 
the loss of everything you cherished, its you. This was the path you chose, 
as I chose mine. I pity you for that.

Save your pity for the weak! Garibaldi growled like an angry dog.

I am.

Garibaldis eyes steeled. Have I struck a nerve? Logan asked himself.

You dare call me weak? Garibaldi bellowed, his angry voice echoed throughout 
the throne room. Fool! I single-handedly destroyed this land! I am the most 
powerful man in the universe! I am Garibaldi, the Scourge of Humanity! And I 
will cleanse this universe and finish what I started once Ive disposed of 
you!

At that moment, doors at the back of the throne room open flung open, 
interrupting Garibaldis ranting. Logan and Garibaldi turned their attention 
to see Edward and Minerva running into the chamber towards them. A mysterious 
white light shone all around them, illuminating their surroundings for several
feet as if it were a torch. But as they drew closer, Logan saw that this light 
was actually another sword Minerva clutched by the hilt.

No! Garibaldi uttered. Its cant be!

The Excalibur of Light! Logan said in a voice above a whisper.

Weve got it Logan! said Minerva. We have the sword!

Princess Minerva! Garibaldi said as a smile crossed his lips. He pushed his 
way past Logan and stepped towards her. I never thought Id see you like this 
again. Youre still a vision of loveliness even after all these years.

Logan slapped himself in the forehead. Youve got to be kidding! he groaned.

And youre still a power hungry madman! said Edward as he pulled Minerva 
away.

I still stand by my choice, said Minerva. Even after all these years.

Im willing to give you one last chance princess, said Garibaldi.

Are you for real? Edward scoffed. Garibaldi, dont you ever know when to 
quit? Minerva has made her choice long ago and she wont change her mind even 
now!

Minerva nodded with an expression that revealed nothing more than pity and 
disdain. I would rather die than break the heart of the one I truly love: 
Edward. She clung with one arm around Edwards waist.

Garibaldis eyes narrowed in fury. Had they been guns, Logan knew that Minerva 
and Edward would be dead by now. So be it princess! You cant love another if 
youre dead!

Hes gone mad! said Minerva.

Oh his minds been gone for ten centuries, said Edward.

Garibaldi, we have the sword, said Logan. Your army is defeated and you are
helpless. The choice is yours, surrender and face justice or die!

Garibaldi exchanged glances between Logan, Minerva, and the sword as if 
considering his options. But Logan knew that either way would result in death. 
He could die now or face execution for his crimes, sentenced by the courts of 
Iconoclast.

So, I guess this is the end right? he asked backing away several steps. All 
my plans undone, my curse lifted, and the land and its people will be freed 
from the hands of justice. He shut his eyes and lowered his head as if to 
accept defeat. And Garibaldi himself will fade off into obscurity, never 
again to be loved or respected, only scorned and hated. Life will go on...as 
if I had never even been born

Several moments of silence pass before he suddenly lifts his head up straight 
in an instant as the entire chamber is illuminated by the flash of a 
spectacular bolt of lightning outside. A loud boom of thunder, as if a cannon 
had been fired over their heads is heard as his hands clench into tight fists.
 
I think not! he bellowed, his voice echoed throughout the throne room.

His eye narrow into little slits. Foolish mortals! Dont underestimate me! I 
am all powerful!

Edward scoffed. Some all powerful! You cant even kill Logan!

A problem that I shall take care of right now! Once taken care of, Im going 
to do to you and your princess what I should have done one thousand years 
ago!

Garibaldi raised his arms as his hands began to glow with magical power. 
Electricity cackled from within. Edward and Minerva clutched the hilt of the 
Sword of Iconoclast as Logan readied his sawed off shotgun and pointed it at 
Garibaldis chest where his heart beat.

But before he could pull the trigger, Logan was hit by a powerful magic spell 
cast by Garibaldi. He found himself engulfed by a sphere of lightning and was 
struck repeatedly, bolt by bolt. As Edward and Minerva watched in horror, 
Logan felt a grim feeling of hopelessness. Was this the end for him after all 
he had been through?

But something didnt feel right. In fact, he didnt feel anything at all. 
Where was the pain? His body should have felt the agony of being struck by 
lightning repeatedly. Electricity should have coursed throughout his body and 
stopped his heart. But instead, he felt absolutely nothing at all, nothing 
but a tingling sensation that actually amused him.

As the lightning sphere engulfing his body disappeared, Logan yawned, bored 
by the situation. Is that all youve got Garibaldi?

Minerva and Edward were amazed that he had survived, but so was Garibaldi, 
whose mouth had dropped open.

What! How can this be? he said. That spell should have killed you! But you 
still live?

Its a miracle! said Minerva.

Its not possible! said Edward.

It is unthinkable! roared Garibaldi. I am the most powerful man in all the 
world, more powerful than Murlock himself. Now feel the wrath of all Ive 
got!

Once more he raised his hand and began to summon another spell. Runes began 
to trace themselves over his forehead. Logan braced himself for another spell 
and aimed his shotgun straight ahead.

Without warning, the lights glowing around Garibaldis hands and the runes on 
his forehead faded away. Whatever spell he was trying to summon had flickered 
out like a dying flame. Edward, Minerva, and Logan lowered their weapons in 
shock.

What! Garibaldi cried. What is this? My powers are leaving me...?

Pathetic! a dark ominous voice spoke out of nowhere.

The four people stood in silence at the sound of this unknown voice. Minerva 
and Edward clung to each other and Logan felt a chill throughout his soul. 
Garibaldi himself stood petrified in horror, not at the voices tone, but at 
the loss of his powers.

Your performance has disappointed me Garibaldi, the voice spoke again. 

Master... Garibaldi began, I 

Save your breath Garibaldi. All that power, so much potential, and you 
couldnt even dispose of this one mortal.

Forgive me master, Garibaldi pleaded, let me have just a moment and Ill  

Silence! So much power, squandered on you! You always were a weakling 
Garibaldi, always were, always will be. What would your father say if he could 
see you now? The son who always disappointed him? Power means nothing if you 
dont know how to use it properly!

What is this? Whats going on? asked Edward.

Who said that? asked Minerva.

You are no longer worthy to wield such forces. I take back my powers and 
return your soul to you Garibaldi! Once more, you are a mere mortal just like 
these people, weak, inferior, and useless. You are nothing to anyone! And you 
Logan!

Logan stood silent as his name was mentioned. Fear gripped his heart. Would 
his secret about his former ties to the Scourge be revealed to his new 
friends?

What have you truly accomplished? the voice asked. Nothing! Nothing but a 
temporary stay of execution for your species! Someday I will arise again and 
succeed where this weakling failed!

Something caught Logans eye. Above where the throne once stood, a sword came 
loose from the wall as if taken by an invisible hand and pointed its blade 
towards him from behind like a giant finger.

Someday I will return to this plane of existence! Someday I will reclaim the 
powers Lazarus sealed away! Someday I will have my revenge! But you Garibaldi, 
you will never reclaim what was taken from you! You have lost everything, 
including your own life!

Before Logan could shout a warning, it happened. Like an arrow fired from a 
bow, the sword sliced through the air and penetrated Garibaldis robe from the
back, imbedding itself in his chest, part of its blade sticking out of the 
front. Blood exploded out from the wound like air from a popping balloon. 
Garibaldi opened his mouth to cry out in agony, but whatever sound he was 
trying to make had died in his throat, held back by the pain throughout his 
body at this merciless assault.

Oh my god! Minerva cried as Garibaldi staggered, blood dripping onto the 
floor from the wound where the swords tip had exited his body. He coughed up 
more blood and fell to his knees, clutching his chest, but all his efforts to 
stop the bleeding were in vain as the blood flowed between his fingers, 
staining his hands.

So weak... the ominous voice said, its voice tainted with contempt. A sinister
laugh echoed throughout the chamber before fading away. Nothing more was 
heard.

Outside, the thunderclouds began to break apart as the storm weakened and died 
along with the wind. All was calm as the sky cleared up as if even the forces 
of nature paid homage and final respects to a once powerful man.

Garibaldi was hunched over with the sword still buried in his chest. It was a 
pitiful sight for a man who was once one of the most powerful men in history.

How awful, said Edward. Still, he got what was coming to him. Never 
conspire with evil spirits. You never know when theyll turn on you.

Minerva dropped the Sword of Iconoclast and hurried over to Garibaldis side. 
Despite her hatred for him, even she wouldnt leave him in this situation to 
suffer. Even despite everything that had happened to her land and people, she 
considered this punishment too much for Garibaldi, to be betrayed by his 
own master and left for dead.

With some effort, she managed to pull the sword out of Garibaldis body the 
way Arthur had pulled Excalibur from the stone in the legends Logan was 
familiar with. Its blade was completely painted with his blood. Disgustedly, 
she tossed it aside.

Edward approached the fallen Garibaldi and looked down upon the face of the 
man who had long cursed him and his love. Etched on his face, Logan saw anger 
and hate for what he had done, but also pity and sympathy for his fate.

So, this is how it ends, Garibaldi spoke, every word demanding all his 
leftover strength. This is how I die. A broken man who never truly achieved 
his greatest dream, nor achieved his goal, forgotten by the pages of history, 
all except for his name and his crimes.

Garibaldi, said Edward in sympathy, what led you to this end?

It wasnt supposed to turn out this way, said Garibaldi. All I ever wanted 
was respect and love, to be someone my own father would be proud of. He must 
be so ashamed. By all thats still holy, I now wish I never sold my soul for 
power.

Can this be? Logan asked himself. Garibaldi showing remorse for everything? 
Had his masters betrayal finally return him to his senses?

You were right Logan, said Garibaldi. I brought this all upon myself.

Whats done is done Garibaldi, said Edward. Not even Murlock can turn back 
time.

I know I can never truly atone for what I have done, said Garibaldi, but 
there is only one thing I can do now.

And what is that? asked Edward.

The sword...Logan, I must have the sword...so I can end the suffering of my 
broken body.

It wouldnt be right to leave Garibaldi to suffer like this. Now he was asking 
for the mercy of a quick death. His troops had not granted Katrina such mercy. 
Now, would he give Garibaldi what he wanted?

Realizing that the Sword of Iconoclast still lay where Minerva had dropped it, 
Logan picked it up by the hilt, gazing upon its blade. The obsidian blade of 
the Sword of Darkness had been transformed by the power of the four elemental 
swords into a bright white crystal. What was it? Diamond? Pearl?

Garibaldi was already reaching for the sword even as Logan approached him. 
Here let me have it just this once

Logan handed Garibaldi the sword. I never thought Id actually do this, Logan 
thought. With both hands clutching the hilt, Garibaldi pointed its glittering 
blade at his bloodied chest.

Citizens of Iconoclast and all humanity...forgive my foolishness...

With those words, Garibaldi plunged the sword into his chest. As he did, the 
sword began to glow as if it were a miniature sun, casting the whole room into 
a shining aura of light. Edward and Minerva clung to each other and buried 
their faces into the others shoulders to shield their eyes. Logan covered his 
eyes with one arm as Garibaldis body began to glow. The holy magic of the 
sword was destroying whatever evil and malevolent power remaining within his 
soul.

Garibaldi released the hilt and his arms came to rest at his sides. The light 
faded and once more, the throne room was cast into darkness. Edward and 
Minerva looked up from each others shoulders as Logan uncovered his eyes.

Garibaldi smiled at them one final time. Though his body was in agony over its 
two gaping wounds, his face was an expression of peace and relief. Logan 
approached him and pulled the Sword of Iconoclast out of his body. He then 
watched as Garibaldis eyes closed and he fell forward to the floor with a 
final thud and lay still. A pool of blood began to spread underneath his 
motionless form.

The three remaining people in the throne room all knew that it was over. After 
living for more than one thousand years, his life-force had been extinguished. 
Garibaldi was dead.

Whoever said revenge was bittersweet was telling the truth, Logan told himself.
Somehow, I dont feel as satisfied as I should be. Could it be that it was
because I never got to deal the death blow? Or was it the fact that Garibaldi's
unknown and unseen master had betrayed him. For all this time, had he been
waging war against an innocent man used as a pawn by evil, blinded by his own
ambition and needs, only to be replaced by rage once he had lost everything?

For several silent moments, they stood staring at Garibaldis lifeless body. 
Even now, looking at his arch-enemys corpse, Logan couldnt help but feel 
sorry for Garibaldi. A man who had everything, only to make a mistake that 
cost him it all.

A mistake that was finally corrected.

Logan couldnt help but wonder, could this have happened to me as it did to of 
him?

Well, Edward finally broke the silence. Thats the end of Garibaldi.

Its a pity, said Minerva in sympathy, he could have been a great man if he 
hadnt made such a foolish choice so long ago.

Whats done is done my love, said Edward as he embraced her. We only have 
each other now. He cant do anything to us anymore.

Minerva didnt reply. Nothing more mattered to her than being with her love.

Now what? asked Edward. We need to get out of this castle somehow.

Logan dug into the pocket of his trench coat and found the emerald charm that 
Murlock had given him. I believe this is our way out of here, he said. Come
on! We all need to activate this magic charm to teleport us away from this 
accursed place.

Dont forget the sword, said Edward. Well need it to undo Garibaldis
magic over this land.

Logan clutched the hilt of the Sword of Iconoclast tightly. Holding his other 
hand out with the stone, he waited patiently as Edward and Minerva lay their 
hands over his, each touching the charm.

Now what? asked Minerva.

Maybe if we give it a rub? asked Edward.

Lets try it all together, said Minerva.

On three? asked Logan.

On three, said Edward.

One, two, three!

In unity, they rubbed the stone with fingers that touched it, and instantly, 
an emerald green light began to sparkle around their bodies.

Its working! Edward shouted in excitement as the lights began to glow and 
shine more brighter.

The trio watched in fascination as a pillar of green light illuminated the 
throne room, stretching up into the air from the stone itself. The pillar 
began to grow in diameter to engulf them. They felt invisible forces lift 
them off the floor and up into the air.

Logan turned back one final time towards Garibaldis corpse, laid to rest 
here for all eternity, forgotten by all life in the world as it moved on 
without him.

Then they were completely surrounded by an emerald wall and the throne room 
vanished.

Hold on my love! Edward said to Minerva.

Where will we end up? Logan asked himself. Back at Murlocks?

					*

When finally, the column of emerald brilliance descended and disappeared back 
into the stone, the trio found themselves in a new location.

We seem to be back in the throne room at the castle of Iconoclast, said 
Minerva recognizing her old home.

Why are we here? asked Logan. Did Murlock take the other stone with him here?

Logan, you made it! a voice spoke in the silent darkness. The trio turned to 
see Murlock standing between both thrones. Standing at his sides were the 
spirits of the king and queen.

Mother! Father! Minerva cried happily at seeing her adoptive parents, the 
family she had known most of her life. She ran up the stairs and held out her 
arms to embrace them. The spirits of the king and queen took their adopted 
daughter into their arms and held her tightly as if they were flesh and blood 
once more.

Oh this is truly a dream come true, Elizabeth said. To see our beloved 
adopted daughter once more.

Murlock stepped down to meet with Logan. I am amazed that you have succeeded 
my friend, he said.

So am I, said Edward.

We all are, said Iconoclast IX. For a thousand years, we lived in a world 
without hope.

Logan stood full of pride at his accomplishment. Without his efforts, they 
would not be standing here now. It felt more satisfying than revenge itself, 
even though he had not been able to kill Garibaldi himself.

Well Murlock, I did it, he said. Edward and Minerva have been rescued, 
Garibaldi is dead, and the Excalibur of Light is in our hands.

He held out the sword for Murlock to see. The ancient wizard took the sword 
into his hands to examine it more closely.

So this is the legendary Sword of Iconoclast, he said. I have never 
personally laid eyes upon it, but I can clearly say that I am in awe at its 
brilliance! This is a moment that I shall never forget for as long as I live! 
A truly remarkable weapon!

Ive never seen anything like it in all my life, said Edward. Did you ever 
see anything so beautiful Logan?

I used to, said Logan, his thoughts turned to Katrina.

Murlock, said Minerva as she released her adoptive parents, theres 
something you need to know. Logan was hit by one of Garibaldis spells, but he 
was completely unharmed! How is that possible?

Is this true Logan? Murlock asked, gaping at him in astonishment as if he 
were some kind of god.

I dont know how I survived when I shouldnt have, said Logan scratching his 
head. I didnt even feel a thing.

Murlock rubbed his bearded chin as if pondering something. Could it be? he 
asked himself. 

What Murlock? asked Minerva.

Wizards cannot harm each other or those of their bloodline with magic. If 
thats true Logan, then you must be a wizards descendant!

Thats not possible! said Logan. I hail from Earth. There has been no 
history of magic users on my home world. It is true that people had been 
killed for witchcraft, but I doubt any of them were actually witches.

But there is one theory, said Murlock. One thousand five hundred years ago, 
Lazarus sent his family to another world for their own safety before his 
battle with the evil sorcerer Raven Dark. He was to bring them back if 
afterwards. Although he was victorious, he could not survive the wounds he 
suffered during the battle. As a result, his family was forced to spend the 
rest of their lives on this new world.

Logan remembered the journal he found from Lazarus office in the castle. The 
entry spoke of Lazarus having sent his family to another world before fighting 
Raven Dark.

It must have been Earth! said Murlock. Which means Logan, you are of 
Lazarus bloodline!

That would explain so much! said Edward with a smile.

Logan stood still in astonishment, but he was confused too. Im a descendant 
of Lazaurus?

Murlock nodded.

So thats why I didnt die from Garibaldis spell. What luck!

You were very fortunate indeed, said Murlock. If it were anyone else, you 
would have been killed.

Sparkles of light began to flicker around the ethereal spirits of the king and 
queen and their legs appeared wavy as if seen through the air above a burning 
fire. Seeing it, the king and queen nodded to each other and to everyone else 
in the chamber. Our ties to this world are diminishing rapidly, the queen 
said. We can stay here no longer. The afterlife awaits us.

Logan, the king said, my wife and I had believed in you from the moment we 
first met you. We always knew that you would be the one to set this land free. 
For that, we thank you. Youve made two long tormented souls very, very happy. 
Now that our adopted daughter and her betrothed have returned to us and 
Garibaldis hold over this land has been broken, we can finally rest in peace 
knowing all will be well.

Mother...father... Minerva said, her eyes watering.

Minerva, you are no longer a child, said the queen. The time has come for 
you to take the burden for the future of this land. We shall be gone from this 
plane of existence soon. Weve long groomed you for the day you would be queen.
And now, the time has come for you to accept that responsibility.

We know you shall help repair the wounds Garibaldi inflicted upon this 
world, said the king. Let your heart guide your rulership and always stand 
strong, no matter what happens.

And Edward, the queen said, your love for Minerva is strong. I commend you 
for supporting her and Logan in this struggle. Please continue to take care of
our adopted daughter.

Edward stood to Minervas side and put one arm around her waist. I always do 
your highness, he said.

Minerva, said the queen. We still have time for one last moment to share 
with you.

Minerva approached her adoptive mother and father once more. The king and 
queen embraced their adopted daughter as she did the same to them.

We will always be watching over you Minerva, said Elizabeth.

Farewell princess, said Iconoclast IX. May you forever be loved!

Minerva shut her eyes tightly to keep her tears from flowing. Mother...
father...I love you both! And I shall be a great queen! Ill make you proud!

We already are, the king said as he and the queen vanished into thin air, 
leaving no evidence of their existence, and Minerva embracing emptiness.

Slowly, she sank to her knees and wept silently. Edward rushed to her side, 
knelt down, and held her. Minerva returned his embrace and held on.

Watching the two young lovers, Logan once more felt a twinge of emptiness and 
envy. He envied Edward and Minerva for having someone to love and cherish for 
the rest of their lives. He used to have someone like that but she was gone 
now. He also sympathized with Minerva for the loss of those she loved. At 
least she still had Edward.

Its getting late, said Murlock. Let us rest for now after such a long hard 
day.

What about dispelling the curse? asked Edward.

A few more hours wont matter, said Murlock. Im sure youre all exhausted 
from the long struggle with Garibaldi. First thing tomorrow, we shall begin 
the task of rebuilding the glory of this land.

					*

The sun had only just peeked over the horizon as they stood upon the balcony. 
In one hand, Logan clutched the Excalibur of Light.

How I prayed that this day would come, said Murlock. All I can say Logan 
is that youve made a very old man veryvery happy. Now, raise the blade to
the heavens. The time to heal the wounds of this land has come. The dawn of a 
new era awaits us all!

Logan nodded and lifted the sword up to the sky. He gazed upon the blade as 
Edward and Minerva stood by his side. The blade began to glow like the sun as 
it released itself from his grip and ascended upward. The sword spun 
clockwise, faster and faster until it became a sphere of light.

A beam of pearl white light shot from the sphere and hit a nearby statue of 
one of the castle guards on a nearby tower. Logan watched in amazement as 
stone became flesh behind the armor. The knight gazed all around him, confused 
as to his situation and what had happened, as if he had just awakened from a 
long sleep.

More beams of light were fired from the sphere. Soon the sky was filled with 
thousands of light beams like brilliant rays of sunlight. The sky itself 
turned white like an ocean of diamond crystal. In all, it was one of the most 
beautiful sights anyone could ever see.

Its so beautiful! said Minerva.

Finally, the sky cleared up and the spinning Excalibur of Light began to 
descend back towards the tower.

Look! said Edward pointing toward the outer courtyard. People were beginning 
to flock into the area, awestruck by the sight of the Sword of Iconoclast, 
forged for the second time in the history of the land.

The sword suddenly glowed bright white a final time then burst into five shards
of light, red, gray, blue, orange, and black. The four elemental swords and 
the Sword of Darkness fell to the courtyard with a clatter. The Excalibur of 
Light was gone, whatever magic that allowed the five swords to become one had 
dissipated.

Cheers rose from the courtyard as the crowd began to celebrate their newfound 
freedom. After a thousand years, they were free.

Princess Minerva! a voice rang out from behind them.

They all turned to see three knights running up the stairs towards them. Logan 
recognized one of them as captain Leoric from Murlocks vision.

Captain Leoric! said Minerva.

Highness! Leoric and his followers knelt. We are honored to once more stand 
in your presence. I do not know what has happened, but...

He stopped in mid sentence as his face locked with Logan. Who is  ?

Its a long story Leoric, said Minerva. Ill explain later. For now, the 
time has come for everyone to rejoice!

Leoric gazed upon Logan once more. "I do not know who you are stranger, but you
have saved our country! From this day forward, your name will forever be a 
legend!"

					*

All over the land, people celebrated being alive again. With Garibaldis magic 
dispelled, the nightmare that kept them imprisoned in time and stone had ended 
at last. 

There was much to do. Preparations for a grand celebration were underway. The 
ceremony would consist of a wedding, the royal coronation, a feast, and a 
royal ball. People from all over the land came to the castle to join in the 
ceremonies that would soon commence. 

Edward, Minerva, and Murlock had already told people about Logans heroism and 
how he vanquished Garibaldis army. Stories of how an outsider, the descendant 
of Lazarus, had saved the land spread like wildfire throughout the land as 
messengers carried their story to all five kingdoms. Stories of a man named 
Logan whose name would forever be remembered with honor and glory. By late
afternoon, everyone in the realm knew Logans name and who he was.

Minerva also told people how Garibaldis hidden unknown master had betrayed 
him and left him for dead. Most people were unsympathetic as they believed 
Garibaldi had finally received his just desserts, reaping his reward for his 
sins.

With Garibaldi dead and his curse lifted, life was already beginning to move 
on as if it had never even happened. The wheels of time once more spun for the 
people of Iconoclast, ready to face a new future, even though people would 
never forget the cruel past.

Logan spent the next few hours meeting with grateful citizens and posing for 
a man who sketched him to use as a model to sculpting statues of him to be 
placed throughout the land so his name and deed would forever be remembered in 
legends.

Finally the preparations were completed that evening. First was the long 
overdue wedding of Edward and Minerva. The ceremony was held within the throne 
room of the castle. A very large crowd of people consisting of several hundred
were gathered to watch as two lovers separated for a thousand years by 
Garibaldis magic were now joined together for all eternity.

Now, despite Garibaldis efforts, everything was back to normal in the world. 
People were able to move on with their lives as if he had never even been 
born.

From the darkness of our past, Murlock announced, we emerge into the dawn 
of a new age for this land. Garibaldi is dead and his grip over this land 
gone. Just as the phoenix rises from the ashes, so too shall this land and its
people prosper once more. Standing here with me, Minerva, adopted daughter of 
our benevolent king and queen, and Edward, a bard from Tamirtania are to be 
forever united in holy matrimony.

From his place at the back of the crowd, Logan watched the ceremony commence 
and listen to the exchange of vows. Standing where he stood, Logan felt 
envious of Edward and Minerva. Fate had been cruel to him and taken his love, 
but for the princess and her bard, the hand of destiny had been generous and 
kind. 

May they live happily ever after, the woman standing next to him said.

Logan turned to face her to voice his agreement, but the words died in his 
throat when he saw her. His heart skip a beat as he recognized the woman from 
Murlocks vision. The woman whose very appearance could pass for his dead 
Katrina. But while Katrina had brown hair and green eyes, this woman had 
black hair and blue eyes.

Its you! he said.

Have we met? the woman asked puzzled. Still, it is quite an honor to stand 
by the side of a great hero!

Logan shook his head and blinked. His eyes had to be deceiving him, but they
were not, even after he rubbed them hoping this was all a dream. Forgive me 
lady, it seems you have me at a disadvantage, uh...

Agnes, the woman said. My name is Agnes.

Agnes, Logan said. Forgive me Agnes. I mistook you for someone I used to 
know.

Theres nothing to apologize for Logan, said Agnes. Youve done nothing 
wrong against this land.

If only you knew, Logan thought. To think all that time among the Scourge, 
along with the others, Ive made this world our home base away from the eyes 
of outsiders.

Are they about to kiss? asked Agnes.

I believe so, said Logan.

As Edward and Minerva kissed to sanction their union once and for all, Logan 
wiped away a tear falling down his cheek.

And now princess Minerva, said Murlock, the time has come for you to wear 
the crown of Iconoclast. He raised a golden crown high above him for all to 
see as Minerva knelt down. Edward watched proudly as Murlock placed the crown 
on Minervas head. By the power of honor, I crown you queen of this land. 
Behold the new queen of Iconoclast!

The crowd cheered, all too eager to welcome their new ruler.

Iconoclast shall prosper under such a wise, powerful, and benevolent queen, 
said Murlock. 

And king, Minerva added.

Quite right, said Murlock as he presented a second golden crown. Edward of 
Tamirtania, kneel.

Edward did as he was told.

May I? Minerva asked.

Certainly your highness, said Murlock as he handed the crown to Minerva. 
Proudly, she placed the crown upon Edwards head. I would be honored if you 
my love would join me in leading this nation and guiding it for years to 
come.

Edward smiled. I will serve this land gladly with you at my side my love, he 
said.

Behold the new king of Iconoclast! Murlock announced to all present.

Cheers erupted from the lips of all present.

Now let us celebrate our good fortune! said Murlock. The evil that ruled 
this land is no more and the future is bright! Long live the king! Long live 
the queen!

Cheers and applause, louder and more passionate than ever filled the throne 
room. But although everyone was rejoicing, the sight of his two newlywed 
friends was too much for Logan. In Edward and Minerva, he saw what could have 
been between him and Katrina had fate not been so cruel. He turned and walked 
out of the throne room, shutting the door behind him. Everyone was so focused
on celebrating the coronation of a new king and queen that none even saw him
leave. But even behind closed doors, he could still hear the cheers of the 
crowd all too eager to celebrate  their newfound freedom and the prospect of 
a bright new future. 

As a former servant of Garibaldi, what right do I have to join them?

					*

He stood upon one of the castle balconies and watched the sun sink towards the 
horizon. The first sunset the people of the land had seen in a thousand years. 
Today was a joyful day for the land. Still, despite his victory over Garibaldi,
Logan still felt as empty as ever.

Ah, there you are Logan, Murlocks voice was heard behind him. People are 
looking for you.

Why am I not surprised? Logan asked, not moving from his spot.

You should be celebrating with everyone else, said Murlock. You are our 
guest of honor!

I dont feel like celebrating, said Logan. You go have a wonderful time.

Murlock joined his side. Something troubling you my friend? he asked. I 
understand youve been through much over the past couple of days. But still 
despite all odds, you have triumphed. That which does not kill you only makes 
you stronger.

Logan didnt reply. True, his body was strong and his spirit had been 
strengthened over the past couple of days during his ordeal. But now that it
was over, his spirit had weakened once more. Perhaps it was because everyone
had gained back what they had lost, whereas his own loss would never be
returned to him. Not even revenge could it turn back time and give back 
Katrina.

Whatever is bothering you, said Murlock, I assure you that even time will 
heal whatever wounds that your soul may bear.

You have no idea, Logan said. It was like talking to that patron at the bar 
shortly before the Scourge invaded. It is better that you dont know.

Already, we are taking steps to ensure that this tragedy is never repeated, 
said Murlock. Even now, we have sent our most trusted knights across the land 
to ensure that the four elemental swords are returned to their rightful place 
where they will be well protected from the hands of evil. May the royal 
families of this land guard them well.

And the Sword of Darkness?

It is too dangerous to leave the sword where its powers can be used if fallen 
into the wrong hands. It must be cast out where it can do no more harm.

He pulled the sword from his robe and held the obsidian blade to the sky. The 
Sword of Darkness can take its curse with it to the bottom of the sea!

The sword became engulfed within a sphere of radiant purple light. With a 
motion of Murlocks head, the sphere, as if gripped by an invisible hand was 
flung up into the sky and into the distance past the Iconoclast citys 
harbour. Logan saw a distant splash as the sphere crashed into the sea.

Let us pray that the currents will take the sword where its powers shall 
never threaten this land again, said Murlock with a smile.

Sir Logan! a voice interrupted them. Logan already knew who it was.

You are summoned to the throne room at once! said Leoric.

					*

All eyes were upon Logan as he walked down the carpet towards the twin thrones 
where Edward and Minerva sat. Voices followed him down the hall. Whispers of 
excitement. A childs cry of jubilation to his mother as he pointed to Logan. 
People clapped and cheered his very presence. He caught sight of Agnes among 
the crowd. It was easy to point her out as she was almost the splitting image 
of Katrina. Somehow, it brought comfort to him to see her. It was almost as if
Katrina herself was congratulating him for what he had accomplished in her
name, proud that she had inspired his spirit and made it all possible.

Despite the empty void in his heart, Logan now felt a feeling of great pride 
from his accomplishment. Because of him, the land had come back to life and 
its people were no longer prisoners of Garibaldis magic. In accomplishing 
this, he had given meaning to his life and to Katrinas death. He was now the 
most famous person in the land. In a way, it felt good to be a hero. All his 
efforts had been worth the reward. People were thankful for what he had given 
them.

Who could ever ask for anything more?

Still, one question burned in his mind. What would everyone think if they 
ever found out that their hero was once a servant of Garibaldi? Perhaps it was 
best left untold.

Finally he stood before the foot of the steps leading up to the thrones. He 
climbed up the stairs and stood before Murlock. He bowed before the new king 
and queen who returned the gesture. All became quiet as Murlock began to 
speak.

Logan, you have proven yourself a true hero to the people of this land. For a 
thousand years, Iconoclast has been a world devoid of life and hope. It is 
thanks to you that it is no longer so. You have done what many would have 
thought impossible and banished the shadow of Garibaldis reign. We are all
grateful that fate brought you to this land. Although you are a stranger, an
outsider, Iconoclast is now proud to call you friend. We owe so much to you, 
our brave and selfless hero!

He pulled from his robe a silver medallion with mystic runes etched upon it. 
Logan saw that they were in the shape of a sword driven into a stone, the 
emblem of the land itself.

On behalf of the people of this land, I present you with this medallion. Wear 
it proudly. He placed the medallion around Logans neck from where it hung.

You have fulfilled your end of the bargain we made, Murlock said. Now it 
is time I fulfilled my end. I promised to send you back to your own world 
when you have dispelled Garibaldis magic and so I shall. I am a man of my 
word as you are of your own.

Finally! Logans mind excitedly shouted. He was obviously anxious to get home.

This medallion is not only a symbol of your triumph, said Murlock, it is 
also serves as the barrier between this world and your own. Once you activate 
its power, it shall return you to your own world and to this one should you 
ever wish to. If ever we need a hero to save this land once again, well know 
who to turn to.

My people shall never forget what you have done for them, said Minerva. We 
are forever in your debt Logan. We are proud to call you, an outsider, a 
hero.

My friend, said Edward, it breaks my heart that you must go. Perhaps if 
fate calls for it, someday well meet again.

He rose from the throne where he sat and held out his hand expectantly. Logan 
took Edwards hand and shook it. Minerva rose from her throne and shook hands 
with Logan as well.

We will never forget you Logan, she said. Please, dont forget about us 
either.

I wont, said Logan. But there was much that would never be forgotten. That 
is a promise!

Farewell, my friend, said Edward. Even Lazarus himself will envy the legend 
surrounding your name for all eternity.

Outside, Logan saw the sun slow disappear underneath the horizon, bringing 
the night with with. For three days, he had been a prisoner in this land. Now
as the people were free from Garibaldi's grasp, so too was he free. He could
come and go whenever he pleased or wished.

Logan released the hands of Edward and Minerva and bowed to them a final time. 
Farewell everyone!

With one last smile at everyone present in the throne room, he took the 
medallion hanging around his neck and gave it a slight rub. Instantly, 
sparkles of light surrounded his body. A pearl white pillar engulfed him and 
began to spread outward as his feet lifted off the floor, no longer weighed 
down by gravity.

Goodbye Logan, said Minerva.

You will always be welcome in Iconoclast, said Edward.

Would I still be welcomed in this land if they ever found out my secret? 
Logan asked himself as the world around him faded into white as the pillar of 
light engulfed him.

Still, it didnt matter. The one thing that truly mattered to him now was that 
he was finally going home.

But there was so much more that also mattered.

He had saved Iconoclast.

He had saved his homeworld.

He had saved humanity.

He had given meaning to his own life and to Katrina's death.

I was right Garibaldi. Everything was worth fighting for!

					The End