Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was as if a herd of brutters had run over her. Every little movement of hers sent excruciating pain through her entire body, it felt like hours for Keira to fully sit up and get some idea of where she was after being thrown. He had no idea what was going on around him and the only thing that was going through his mind was if his father and friends were okay too, the concern for his loved ones was trigger enough for Hagai to propel his body to stand, however. the second he took a single step, his body fell again for not supporting its own weight.

   Keira was breathing hard as she tried to compose herself, she raised her head to see if anyone would pass by to help her, unfortunately Hagai was in an empty alley in the city, she didn't know if she was happy not having people's attention since she practically fell from the sky or if she was sad that she didn't have a single help. She threw her head back to the floor, trying to calm her nerves and muscles in search of any strength to get up, but in the end she surrendered to exhaustion.

   &

   Keira frowned and opened her eyes slowly, unlike the first time her body didn't hurt so much, she was still tired, but she didn't have so much trouble keeping up, leaning on the cold metal wall, she walked calmly to the exit. from the alley, taking in the movement of people, he looked up at the dark, almost starless sky and wondered how long it had been since he'd slept. She checked the condition of her clothes, seeing them dirty and a little torn in the knee area, in addition to light scratches on her back and arms, thanked the precursors for not having broken any important limbs.

   Gathering the last of her courage she entered the sand track walking slowly not knowing what time it was, or where she was and how she was going to survive there, she didn't carry any money with her and there wasn't anywhere she could take a good shower and sleep in. a warm bed. Keira shrugged her shoulders every time a citizen focused on her deplorable state and prayed to God that none of these would call the authorities, something deep in her being told her this wasn't a good thing. She looked up again to see a huge metal track with a transparent background and some zoomers passing by.

   "Amazing…" she whispered in awe of the technology, surely she was ahead of her time where technology was simple and limited. Gradually he saw the end of that sandy street as well as the end of the lane above him, a small ramp was on the side of the street, certainly to take him to a new area of the city, however as soon as he approached the small bars it was prevented from continuing by a huge barrier, Keira knocked for a few minutes, but to no avail, the barrier obstructed the passage, sighed in defeat knowing that she would not leave and turned around in the hope of finding another way.

   Her throat burned in an attempt to hold back the tears, she was alone, hungry and injured in a place unknown to her. There would be no one to rescue her or a roof over her head to rest, panic flooding Keira's mind as she was on the point of collapsing there in the middle of the street.

   She returned to the alley and slid down the wall as she released her tears, covered her face with her hands and cried like a child who had lost his parents. Her chest tightened with anxiety at the situation, her mind no longer thinking about anything but how lost she was and how she would die there without knowing the whereabouts of Jak, Daxter and her father.

   “Jak, help. Help."  She whispered tearfully for her friend. Even in Sandover when something happened to her, she wasn't afraid as she knew Jak and even Daxter would be there to help and save her, but now it was just her and Keira never felt as imposing as she did now. She tried to control her uneven breathing because of crying, even with no way out she couldn't give in now, she was Samos' daughter and would get out of there somehow. She needed to believe.

Chapter Text

Keira loved exploring in Sandover, she felt like a true hero every time she went out to venture into the village with or without Jak, it was like freedom was in the palm of her hand and nothing and no one could stop her.

 During one of her adventures, Keira passed by the house of Mr. Hove, one of the best farmers in the village, he had one of the best fruits, among them was one that as soon as Hagai hit him, he looked at him in amazement, it was a bright purple and its appearance gave him a succulent look that made Keira's mouth water whenever she saw it.

 —Mr Hove, can I get one?

 —Have money?  — he asked and Keira nodded in denial.  —Then no.

 —But I am the daughter of Samos.  —the little one replied.

 —That doesn't change anything.

 Keira continued for long weeks asking for a single fruit from the farmer, but she was always refused anyway and over time, it angered Keira deeply, Keira always had what she wanted and she would eat the fruit.

 It was the first time that Keira had stolen something and it was obvious that Hove had caught Hagai in the act taking her directly to Samos who was surprised at the way the man pulled his daughter by the arm.

 —What's happening?  — Samos asked, assessing their features.

 —What's happening is I caught your daughter stealing one of my fruit.

 —Is that true, Keira?  — the sage asked, surprised by Hove's accusation. The girl just waved, not daring to speak, shame and regret was visible.  —I'm sorry about that Hove, if there's anything I can do…

 —Teach your daughter that stealing is wrong! Hove complained, turning and walking away without another word.

 Samos turned to Keira who was staring at her feet, he knew the girl was sorry, but he couldn't let such a serious mistake pass. He wouldn't humiliate the girl, he knew that her guilt was already hurting her.

 —Come here, Keira.  —he asked calmly and, afraid, she approached her father.  —Look at me.

 Slowly, Keira lifted her face, showing the thick tears that were flowing freely down her innocent face.

 —Why did you do that?

 —I w-wanted to co-eat the fruit.

 —And why didn't you ask me?"

 It left her speechless, she hadn't thought of that.

 —Look, would you like someone to take the Puzzle from you?

 Just the thought of being without her bear fear filled Keira's eyes which she quickly denied. She loved that teddy bear and would never lend it to anyone, not even Jak.

  —Your teddy bear is important to you, correct? The fruit is important to Hove, you took something that belongs to someone and that's wrong. So never, under any circumstances, does she steal again. Do you understand Keira?

Hagai stood next to the busy fair, her feet felt heavy on the dirt road, as if a 100-kilogram weight was on her feet.  At first, Keira was relieved as soon as she saw the fruit and vegetable market inside the area she was in.  Because she was trapped since she doesn't have access to the other two areas, she crossed the place from end to end, she was worried about not getting any kind of food, and seeing that she could eat somehow gave her more peace of mind, the problem was just one in the middle of the equation: money.

 She was in a different time than her time, she didn't know what currency they used around here and she didn't even have any money with her, her clothes were still dirty and torn so even if she wanted to she wouldn't be able to keep any money.

 She tried to politely ask the marketers, explaining her precarious situation, even offering labor, but all she received was silence, not rudeness for her condition or for trying to take advantage of a poor person like him who, unlike her, struggled to earn a living.  It took two days of trying and no success.

 Her belly rumbled all the time showing how much she needed it, telling her she needed to eat.

 Keira knew she had no alternatives to feed herself and the only way out of that situation was stealing, but her memory of Hove never left her mind, she felt like a traitor for just thinking about such an act she had promised so many years ago to her father never did, however her belly rumbled showing that Keira had no other choice.

 She walked slowly towards the fair, her whole body was shaking and the woman honestly didn't know if it was from hunger or fear of being discovered and being handed over to the guard.  The young woman was totally terrified of the Krimson guard, they were brute and rude men who used their authority to do anything.  Keira hid from them whenever she saw them because of their appearance, afraid they would suspect her and arrest her.

 Keira walked around trying to see which marketer was more distracted so that they wouldn't notice that she was stealing some food, she looked around to see if any guards were around, the movement was large which facilitated theft.  As soon as a vendor turned around to organize his belongings, Keira pulled a fruit and hurried to leave the place, what the woman did not expect was that several fruits would fall due to the removal of the fruit, she put both hands in front of her.

The fruit that he took and walked to some alley without anyone suspecting, his heart was about to explode inside his chest and, for a second, he thought about going back and returning the fruit and apologizing, but his belly kept reminding him how much he was hungry and how this was not a mere whim, but for her survival.

 Keira ran as far away as possible and hid behind a garbage can so no one would see her on the main street.  He focused on the beautiful red apple he was holding and didn't wait to bite a piece and almost cry when he felt the sweetness of the fruit melt on his tongue, he devoured the apple in seconds so hungry he was, scraped as much as he could until there was nothing left. nothing and threw it in the trash can next door.

 She licked her lips to catch the remnants of apple juice that lingered on her lips, it was the best meal she'd had in weeks.  This would just be the first of many, Keira knew that.

—Sorry Dad, but it's necessary.

 She thought for a moment that she would feel guilty about the act, but she was so happy that she had eaten that she didn't even think about it, just how she would continue to do so without the citizens noticing, by always staying in the same area she would soon become a familiar face. and soon it would be harder to hide from people.  Even though the turnover of people is huge, since many are just passing through, Keira needed to get out of there as quickly as possible and find somewhere that would offer employment so that she would stop stealing and not be a possible target of the guard.
 Keira's journey had just begun.

Chapter Text

The world can be more dangerous than you think.

 Keira never felt more truth in that sentence than she does now. She always imagined, when she was young, the wonders that the world could offer her, landscapes, adventures, new people, different foods and above all: technology. Hagai loved inventing and tinkering with the metal junk she encountered during her outings with Jak, she considered herself a person ahead of her time, as any mention of anything abnormal in Sandover was considered wrong or cursed.

 When Keira imagined traveling through an unknown world, she didn't imagine that she would go through such suffering, the landscape was cold and the weather was extremely cold and gray, the adventures she always dreamed of doing turned into the search for survival with no money and hiding in garbage to not be caught by the guard, people here are just selfish and insensitive beings, at least technology was something that Keira most admired until now in the time she spent here, she drew with her fingers on the dirt track some sketch of what the vehicle used by them there and the woman thought it was very similar to one of her projects, but it had been so long that she wasn't sure.

 With each passing day Keira improved in her attempts to get some food, her confidence grew with each passing day as did her ability to be unnoticed by the public, even though she was still stuck in the area as her communication with any citizen of this city was nil. Her knowledge of the city was limited and it wouldn't be with the Krimson guard that she'd get anything.

 Even though it was faster and more efficient, her body was getting thinner every day, the clothes that used to be tight were loose on her body. She felt her head hurt so much a day that it made her cry, in addition to the dizziness and weakness that made her fall to her knees. Keira knew that she was dying little by little and that if she stayed there, her end would be in a dark alley until someone found her fetid body.

 This caused her to cry briefly during the night, even getting used to the routine, despair beat in her chest for not leaving there and for even after a month she hadn't even seen the figure of her father, Jak and Daxter looking for her. . She tried to avoid the idea that they couldn't take the fall and that she was actually alone there, but sometimes it was inevitable that it wouldn't get Keira down so she spent days hiding in the alleys, depression destroying her conscience little by little.

 However, she knew that if it was Jak, regardless of his situation he would fight just as he had a thousand times and that inspired her to keep moving forward, if only to keep up and delay her death. And that was why she was walking again in search of food, Keira tried to alternate between different places so that she wouldn't suspect her, she had found a hut on a dead end street in the area that was full of crates with the most varied fruits, she had picked it up there. at most three times and today he would return there, and as always he would apologize to Samos on account of the promise.

She passed the place at least twice to make sure there was no guard passing by, having confirmed she approached the cabin quickly looking at what she would catch when the high-pitched voice startled her.

 —That's not yours. — The fruit fell from Keira's hand in her fright, her legs trembled in fear and tears splattered her eyes already imagining her end at being discovered.

—I-I'm sorry. — she said to the colorful bird that beat its wings rhythmically as it studied her seriously.

—I know you come here to get fruit. But if you get caught by the guard, it's your end. —he is still serious.

—I won't come here ever again. —Keira promised, hoping the bird wouldn't give her away.

—Pick some fruit and don't come back.—he responds by throwing a device near Keira's feet, which she caught curiously.

—What is it?

 — A security pass. It will allow you to exit this area. —Keira's eyes widened at the bird's sentence, her chest heating up in happiness at the knowledge that she could get out of here and get something outside the walls she'd been in for a month.

—Why are you giving me this? — Keira asked confused, even though she was happy she didn't understand the bird's action. She had never seen him once in all her time here.

—Onin said your place is not here.

 —Who is Onin?

—I'm not a computer that should answer your questions, take the fruit and get out. – he replied returning to the cabin.

 Still processing what happened, Keira took four fruits along with the device and placed it inside her breast and quickly walked away from the place running towards her freedom from that place that had been her home for so long. Hagai believed that she would have better chances if she left and that maybe she could find her father along with Daxter and Jak… Jak. Just thinking about him made Keira's heart beat frantically, she prayed to the forerunners that he was all right, that no one had mistreated him as they had her because of her dirty and decaying state.

 She felt herself hit something hard from the distraction of her thoughts causing her to fall scattering the fruit she'd picked up from the cabin, her ass aching from the fall, but Keira didn't mind so much as she tried to pick up the fruit and get up ready to apologize to the person who accidentally bumped. What she didn't expect was that when she looked up to face a Krimson guard, the red armor gleamed in the sun along with the gun she carried in her arms. Keira's legs gave out as she looked at the imposing man in front of her along with her heart racing with fear.

—Where did you get the fruit? —He asked seriously pointing to the food in his hands.

 Keira's tongue felt heavy inside his mouth, he couldn't get a word out. Her whole body shook with fear, her mind screamed to run, but her body just stopped working at the sight of the guard looking at her coldly and in a disgusted, disgusted way, as if she wasn't welcome here or anywhere. . As if she didn't deserve to live.

—Answer the question. —he says seriously.

 You need to run.

 run away.

 Run, Keir a.

 Run!

 And she ran.

 Her legs moved of their own accord as she heard the guard yell to chase the bandit, a bandit. Heedless of the insult, Keira let her legs carry her to safety, her mind racing a mile a second trying to figure out some way to elude the guards and get to the edge of the area to get past the barrier and into her freedom.

 She looked back seeing a group of guards, on average 3 to 4, running towards her, despairing her even more, she accelerated her step more feeling her chest burning with fatigue, but that didn't stop her from continuing, she needed to continue her opportunity had finally arrived, he wouldn't give it up now.

 She turned in the first alley she found to take a shortcut, her hope growing as she reached the other side, but her smile faded when she saw a guard appearing and pointing a gun at her who skidded to slow her pace, turned to the other. side in an attempt to still manage to escape, but the other guards were already at the other entrance waiting for her.

 That was it, her end had come.

 Tears sprang up instantly in her eyes, falling non-stop down her face, the fruits fell from her hands as she saw the guards approaching her, cocking their weapons, she would be shot right there.

 A memory of Jak popped into her mind, he was in deep trouble and Keira swore it would be goodbye, however Jak did the impossible and made it out alive. Hagai has never seen such determination in Jak. She would take that determination and bring it to her, even though she was on the brink of death, she would fight.

 She knelt down and held a garbage can lid and waited for the first guard to approach hurling the object hard at him, knocking him over in a first strike, strike one. Keira ran ready to go through the legs of the second guard, but an agonizing pain went through her shin making her fall even before the act and in the next second she fell to the ground she felt the gun hit her face, it was the first time she was knocked out in the act. face, a metallic taste filled his mouth, he spat out his saliva to remove the taste and was startled to see the red color stain the floor, it was blood.

—That bitch is going to learn to put herself in your shoes.

—No…no…please.

 But the man doesn't hear him giving her a strong kick in her belly, completely contracting Keira's body, who was still processing the blow to her face, tears were running down Keira's face without stopping because of the pain and grandeur she was in, she didn't have the strength. to fight, never had. A sequence of blows was delivered by the guards in several places, destroying her clothes even more, with each blow Keira's consciousness faded and her body became heavy, she no longer had the strength to fight it and just closed her eyes accepting her end. Her last sight was the feet and hands of the guards ready to take her life.

 A kick was landed on her head leaving her on the verge of unconsciousness, she saw the blur of one more hands before she heard a string of gunshots and the sound of bodies falling beside her. Silence reigned, Keira wanted to move, but it was impossible, her body was completely destroyed by the blows making her a dead weight. A shadow was all she saw before she surrendered to total unconsciousness not knowing if she would open her eyes again.

 To tell the truth, after all that had passed in those agonizing seconds, death seemed welcome to Keira now.

Chapter Text

Wake up, Keira.

 Wake up.

 Your place is not here.

 She slightly opened her eyes, her vision was blurred, so she couldn't keep them open for long. After a few seconds, she reopened them for a clearer look. She was in a room, the color brown predominated in the room, by the softness below her she imagined that she could be in a bed. She took a deep breath at the comfort her back found, she had spent so many days lying on the cold floor covering herself with the lid of a garbage can that lying in something so cozy was a tremendous paradise.

 Keira took a closer look at where she was and saw other beds, probably the same one she was on, spread out symmetrically in the room. She looked down to see his body finding it bandaged on his belly and legs, in addition to the arm where a needle was inserted in his hand, followed the tube to which the needle was connected finding a transparent bag into which a liquid of the same color dripped. .

 She tried to move, but her entire body tensed with pain. She relaxed again, trying to remember how she got here, and with a flash, she remembered the guards. Tears filled her eyes as she remembered what had happened, she gritted her teeth trying to keep from crying out in despair or relief, Keira wasn't sure. She was just grateful that she was still alive. She tried to calm her nerves, she couldn't despair as much as she wanted to, she still didn't know where she was and after yesterday, it would be even harder to believe anyone.

 Keira heard the door slam and suspected that someone had arrived, she turned her neck as far as she could see a woman wearing light, almost white clothes, she imagined that the robe was already white, but it got worn out over time. She did not know. The woman had blonde hair tied in a bun along with a clipboard in her hands, her expression as she focused her vision on herself was one of surprise, speeding up her step a little to get closer.

—Finally woke up, we thought you'd never open your eyes. — Her tone was amused, but not at all serene or tender. Keira always imagined healers as sensitive and calm people.

—W… Wat.— Keira tried to say something for the first time, but her throat had no saliva or any liquid from the dryness.

—Only a moment. — The woman left the clipboard on the bed next to her, leaving the room, returning minutes later with a glass in hand. —Drink it.

 As soon as Keira felt the drink on her tongue, she didn't know whether to spit it out or swallow it with relief, it tasted bad.

 —I took advantage and put a medicinal herb mixed with water. You will need it, keep drinking.

 Without saying anything and after taking a deep breath, Keira drank all the liquid contained in the glass. He always did it when his father ordered him to drink any bad medicine, even after years Keira never abandoned the practice.

— Where am I? —was the first thing she asked handing the glass to the woman who took it and placed it in the small cupboard beside the bed.

—You're lucky Hal found you, you were a stone's throw from death. — The blonde continued commenting, not caring about Keira's question as she went back to snuggling into the soft comforter.—I need to change your serum and check your wounds, you broke three ribs and one of them almost tore your lung, broke one of your legs and the other was bleeding internally from the shot, your arms were the least of the damage even if your forearm left has been fractured. Your head was severely bruised and we had to sew up the tear, I'm sorry babe, but you've got a bald patch on that pretty head of yours. You are very lucky that I am a good doctor and saved your ass.

—Thanks. —was the least he could say to his heroine. She swore that in that moment she would be beaten to death and she would never be able to see her loved ones again.

—You're welcome. Oh! And to answer your question, you are in Spargus.

 Spargus…a totally different name, will it be another area of town? Keira was very doubtful taking in fact the rustic style of the environment she was in beyond the doctor's attire was nothing compared to the technological city she was in.

—How…how long was I gone? — Keira asked again to clear up her doubts, which were not few.

—One week.

—One week?!

—I think you didn't understand the gravity of the situation you were in. Your body couldn't take anything, it was so tired that you didn't even wake up with the medicine I gave you.

 She felt dizzy with the amount of information, almost died, woke up in a different place and passed out for a week. Keira felt there was still a lot to come.

—Look, I'm glad you're awake, but you still have a lot to catch up on and when you're 100 percent you need to be ready for initiation.

—What are you talking about?— Keira asked feeling her heart sink.

—When it's time you'll know, the herb I put in the water was a sedative, you should already be feeling the symptoms.

—Than… —the dizziness hit again, her vision once again blurred. —Wait…

 When she opened her eyes again, her body didn't ache as much as before and she felt more willing and lighter. She stretched to sit up and check if she really was more fit for movement, she was relieved to feel her bones snapping with the movement, even though she had a slight sharp pain in her still healing rib. Remembering the diagnosis that the doctor mentioned, Keira lifted her free hand from the needle and took it to her head, passing it through there until she found the bald spot, with light touches she felt the firm seam made by the cut. Tears welled up in her eyes again when she saw the situation she was in, it had shaken much more than her physique, Hagai's psyche would take a long time to heal again.

 Praying that no one showed up, Keira shed for the first time the tears she'd been holding back since the moment she woke up. Unlike the first time, she didn't want to scream, just release the anguish that was stuck in her throat, all the suffering she's been through during that month, all the misery and thefts, the stolen sleep, the rains that have passed. The fear of never finding a way out, the fear of dying and no one even caring about her body and being thrown out in the open and her father along with Jak and Daxter not even knowing she had died. All fears and nightmares. Each tear released a torment from Keira.

 After a few minutes, Hagai calmed down, leaving only the brief sobs and quick sniffles, it was as if a weight had been lifted from Keira, she knew she wouldn't heal anytime soon, but crying had been the best escape so far. She relaxed back on the bed breathing calmly listening to the ticking of the clock that echoed through the room like an infinite sound. She had already slept too much, so even relaxed she couldn't sleep.

 She stayed like that for so long that she didn't see the hours pass and ended up being startled by the door being opened again by the blonde woman from yesterday.

—Up early? Good Morning.

—Good Morning. So how many days was I gone this time?

 The woman smiled at Keira's mood as she approached with the tray.

—This time a few hours, it's 7 a.m. brought your coffee.

—Is there weed in it? —she asked remembering what happened yesterday.

 —This time I need you awake so we can see your state, depending on how your body is progressing we can proceed with the treatment. You need to eat, Hal said he'll see you soon.

—I'm looking forward to meeting him. —Keira commented excitedly causing the blonde to laugh. —Did I say something wrong?

 —Know him. — she repeated leaving Keira even more confused.

 The door opened again indicating a new person in the room. The woman was beautiful, with her violet hair and eyes the same color, unlike the doctor, she wore darker and coarser clothes, transmitting danger.

—Good morning, Hal. – the blonde greeted the newest member.

 —Yelena.

 Keira's eyes widened as soon as she heard the name, now she understood why she was laughing.

 Hal wasn't a man.

Chapter Text

She was beautiful. Keira couldn't stop admiring Hal's unique beauty, the woman exuded confidence and tranquility calming Hagai's mind in a way that even she didn't understand.

—How is she? — the woman asked Yelena.

—The fractures and ribs are still healing, so she should be on bed rest. The gunshot wound is already healed, and the head is being examined for any recurrence. She should still be here for a couple of weeks at least.

—She needs to be 100 percent when she gets out of here, you know.

—I'm not crazy about releasing the girl into battle without being at least healthy.

 Keira wanted to ask what battle this would be, curiosity coupled with fear filling the woman's heart at just the thought of what she'd gotten herself into. Keira was not a warrior, not least because Sandover was not a dangerous place, on the contrary, it was a quiet and peaceful village. Keira didn't even know how to throw a punch, let alone fight a battle. However, she decided to abstain, not wanting to intrude on their conversation.

—Kleiver doesn't think it's even worth healing her for her to die on the first challenge. — Hal whispered low.

 —That barrel is a heartless one. —Yelena commented —causing Hal to laugh. —Sorry. — the blonde said turning to Keira. —I still don't know her name.

—It's Keira, Keira Hagai.

—Pleasure, Keira. My name is Yelena and she is Hal, she who brought you here. — Yelena replied politely. —I'll leave the two of you alone to talk. I'll bring your lunch at noon.

 The two remained silent even after Yelena left the place. Keira felt imposing with Hal's presence, she knew she should thank the woman, after all she wouldn't be here if she hadn't shot the guards and brought her here, however her mouth couldn't make a single sound.

—Do you have relatives? —Hal asked breaking the silence, being distracted, Keira ended up being startled by the voice that sounded loud because of the silence of the room. The woman leaned against the bed next to Keira's and focused her gaze for the first time on Hagai.

—Yes, I have.

 —Want to be contacted? —Without saying anything Keira just denied it, feeling sad at the memory of her father and Jak. —Ran away from home?

—Something more complicated than that.

—I'm here to listen.

—I don't know if you would believe it.

—I guess it's nothing compared to everything I've seen.

 Keira took a deep breath, she had no idea how she would say what happened to her, she tried to formulate how she would start the explanation of all that, but nothing came out; she maybe she was nervous about saying something still delicate, just thinking about her father and Jak with Daxter made her eyes water.

—I'm not from here.

—Haven, Spargus? — Hal asked and Keira denied it.

 —From this time. — she replied, waiting for the woman's reaction, but she remained impassive, listening to everything Keira was saying. —A portal opened in my village and we entered through it, but during the trajectory our vehicle ended up being hit by something and we separated. I woke up in that place and I've lived there ever since.

 Keira summarized as much as she could of everything that happened, not least because she didn't see the need to tell details that even she didn't understand or even remember, everything that happened on the trip was just a blur in her mind.

— You're right, it's hard to believe. — Hal replied. Keira tightened the sheet in fear of what would happen to her, if the city found her any threat they would surely kick her out. —Recover, Damas is seeing what it will do to you. Knowing you won't have a place will certainly offer you a place in Spargus.

—Excuse me, but…who is Damas? — Kira asked.

 —The King of Spargus. As soon as you're recovered, I'll take you to him. — Hal replied standing up straight and ready to leave.

 —Hal. — The woman turned at Keira's call. —Why did you save me?

—I hate that city. Especially those soldiers, and I was in a bad mood, so there was nothing better than taking it out on them. Have a nice day, Keira.

 Hal continued to walk leaving Keira absorbing what he had heard, she didn't know why she was sad to hear the reason for the "rescue" because Keira was a complete stranger to Hal and she didn't have the face of being a helpful person or with the soul of heroin. However, Hagai couldn't help but feel dejected by the cold and direct response.

 "This is the world outside of Sandover", Keira thought.

 —You need to be more careful, in a little while it will be all patched up. — scolded Samos as he healed Keira's knee with green echo, even though it hurt, Keira was so used to it that she could handle it without complaining so much, plus the heat emanating from the echo was relaxing.

—I need to be prepared for when I get out of here. the girl said.

—Still with that? — asked the sage, finishing the cure.

—I need to take a closer look at the pictures in the book, Dad. There must be a whole world out there waiting for me, Jak and Daxter.

—The world is not like in the books, Keira.

—How can you be so sure? Have you ever been there?! —the 10 year old girl asks curiously.

—Let's say I visited a few places.

—And how it is?

 Samos thought for a while, lightly remembering where she had been before staying in Sandover with Jak. It was difficult to respond to Keira's and even Jak's responses when Samos understood what his expression was. He knew they both had a flame that was difficult to put out and he didn't want to, but they were both so hasty or they were growing up too fast, that it worried the sage and he had to tell certain truths to both of them so they could hold on. He remembers when he saw Keira for the first time in his 16 years, how apathetic and serious her gaze was, he could feel that what she went through to be that one hadn't been easy and that was an even bigger trigger to hold the little explorer Keira that was in front of you now.

—It's beautiful. — He replied, seeing Keira's eyes sparkle. —But it's also dangerous.

—What's so dangerous about it?

—People.

—People? Why?

—One day you will understand.

 Knocking was heard by the two and they turned to see Jak standing in the doorway, his expression showing shame for what had happened to Keira.

—Come in Jak, Keira is fine, it wasn't anything serious. —Samos said encouraging the young man to enter and walk calmly towards the young woman who had already got out of bed and stood up. Even without saying anything Samos and Keira could see the guilt and apology on Jake's face for what had happened.

—It's okay, Jak. It was not a big deal. It's healed. —Keira said excitedly showing her knee already completely healed. Jak looked at Samos as if asking for permission or something and in response Samos nodded positively to Jak's request that he reached out to Keira who automatically grabbed it and they both ran out of the house and out hand in hand.

 And as he always did, Samos asked the Precursor that, when it came time for change, to protect their children.

Chapter Text

It had been the most tedious two weeks for Keira, at first it had been nice to lie there enjoying what Haven had taken from her and regain her strength, but as time went on just looking at that brown roof was driving Keira crazy.

—I can not take it anymore.

—The food? — Yelena asked.

—Stay here. — Keira snapped, the nurse couldn't help but laugh at the patient's displeasure. She had liked the girl, she was a fun and extremely interesting woman. Yelena hated the citizens' coldness because of the way they live and seeing Keira's cheerful aura made her ecstatic.

—Believe me, tomorrow you'll regret thinking that way.

—What is this secret they hide from me? Since the day I woke up, you and Hal have been talking about initiation. – Keira asked, she had already created enough intimacy with Yelena to have the courage to ask, this had been eating Hagai for days.

—Only Damas will tell you, we suspect if we told you now the other day you wouldn't even be here. Relax Keira and enjoy your last day here.

 As a routine for the last two weeks, Keira stayed in bed all day, getting up only for the needs and eating in the hospital cafeteria, she couldn't stand lunch and dinner sitting on the bed anymore, and to finish she would stay at the window in the hallway next to the room admiring the the full moon along with the town of Spargus was a sight that relaxed Keira and the cool breeze that ruffled her hair was enough to carry her to bed and sleep, she hoped this time there would be no nightmares.

 —Keira.

 She sighed turning over wanting to stay asleep, the pillow was too good to let go of him.

 —Keira.

 She slightly opened her eyes to see Hal standing beside her bed with a change of clothes in hand.

—You have a date with Ladies at 6:30

—What time is it?

 —Exactly 6. I asked Yelena to do something for you since breakfast here is only 6:30.

 Slowly, Keira sat up and stretched her body, feeling him wake up with the slight stretch, it was a relief to no longer feel the sharp pain in her rib every time she stretched.

—I brought you clothes. —Hal said placing the pieces next to the woman who noticed the difference in her old clothes.

—What happened to the ones I was wearing?

—She was no longer usable. We had to throw them away, even though they were clean, the stench was impossible to remove and the damage was too great to repair. — explained Hal. Accepting, Keira took the clothes and headed to the bathroom to change, she would finally take off that hideous dress, even covering all of her it still looked like she was naked.

 He looked at himself in the small mirror of the place, his hair was longer, at shoulder length, he would later plan to cut it as he didn't like his hair that big, he got used to it at the neck, it was easier and pleasant to live with.

 She came out of the bathroom, adjusting the finishing touches to her new outfit: a pair of brown fabric pants fitted to her body, a sturdy black boot with little height, her blouse was dark green with very thick fabric, it covered even below her breasts, removing the small cloth in the back. center that covered up to above her bellybutton, the cleavage highlighted her breasts a lot, the brown jacket had fit her extremely well.

—Now you look better. 

The two walked to the cafeteria where Keira ate a piece of bread and coffee before leaving the hospital for the first time. Keira couldn't have been less than in awe of the city when she left, the morning was still pleasant and few people were on the street. During the walk, Keira could calmly look at the whole rustic structure of the city, the simple houses, the animals, the small fair, the clothes, everything there conveyed antiquity and simplicity different from Haven with its futuristic and cold style.

 Hal pointed to a door at the corner of a curving street they were on and as they approached it opened showing an elevator much like the ones they had in Sandover, the wooden platform being held by a sturdy rope. As soon as they entered, the door closed and the elevator began to move slowly, neither of them daring to say anything, Hal gave Keira enough space to enjoy the short ride through Haven.

 The mechanic's eyes widened as soon as she saw the hall where she was, it was a true paradise. The small river, the waterfall, the stone path, the place was huge and at the end of the path only one man was sitting on the throne.

"Damas." Keira thought as she walked right behind Hal, Keira imagined during her hospital stay, what the so honorable King of Spargus would be like both physically and in behavior. And for her, now, it was everything she'd ever imagined. He had the bearing of a leader, that was obvious, but she imagined an older man, like her father not a man in his prime, and it made her slightly weak-legged.

 Definitely scary.

 —Your Highness. — Hal responded by nodding to the man who consented. —This is Keira, she is the woman I saved from the Baron's guards.

Damas looked her up and down meticulously, her gaze was intense and always aloof, even knowing him now it was hard to imagine a smile on his face or see a more peaceful look.

 —K-king Damas. It's an honor to finally meet you. —Keira said for the first time, she needed to thank you for all the hospitality and welcome, she would be eternally grateful for all Yelena's care.— Thank you so much for everything, I will be forever grateful for your help.

—All help comes at a cost, Miss Keira. —Damas answered for the first time. The hairs on the back of Keira's neck prickled at the man's husky, cold voice. —Your life was saved by us, so she belongs to us. That way we'll know if we pass the test.

 —W-what test? — Keira asked feeling her heart beating rapidly, Damas himself was already deliberately scaring her, seeing him say that made her terrified.

 —We don't live in a heavenly place, every citizen of this city needs to be prepared for the worst, living here is not easy. We need warriors, Miss Keira, so we'll have to see her skills on the battlefield.

—Then drop me off in Haven. —Keira asked, that was too much, her fighting skills were definitely zero, she was never a battle-oriented person, she does know how to defend herself, but that was totally different she could feel.

 Damas chuckled at the young woman's response seeing the fear in her eyes, as Hal said, she's not a fighter, she shouldn't even know how to hold a weapon. If she walked into that field she would be dead in less than a second. Hal remained silent watching the argument unfold, she wouldn't get in the way.

—Do you think it's that simple? We're not here to indulge your whims. You must serve this city if you want anything.

—I can do anything.

—We only accept warriors.

—Hal said you guys have cars here, I'm a great mechanic. I can fix cars.

—All citizens have gone through initiation, you won't be any different.

 Keira felt her eye sting with tears, there was no way out, either she would fight and die or suffer the consequences. Yelena's speech never made so much sense. For a moment she thought it would be different here, that she would be welcomed and accepted and could go in search of her father and Jak, but she had simply left one prison to stay in another.

 —Your test site is already being prepared, you…

—My Lord. —Hal said interrupting Damas' speech. —Give me a week to train her.

—I've been too generous, Hal.

—Only a week. Just it.

 Damas sighed at the woman's teasing, Hal was one of his best warriors, one of the most trusted friends he had. He never doubted his ability, or decision-making, but that situation just didn't make sense to Damas, the girl was weak, unprepared, fearful, she didn't have any requirements to be a citizen here. However, Hal did everything he could to treat the girl the best he could, as well as giving her opportunities that Damas had never given anyone.

 He analyzed for a while the face of the woman who until now hadn't wavered even a second, he knew that face and surely Hal wouldn't give up that easily. Apparently he had no choice.

—One week. —he declared seeing a slight smile on Hal's lips and a relieved sigh from the young woman. —Nothing more, nothing less. They are released. And Hal.

 Dams called to the woman who was already heading towards the exit.

—Don't abuse my trust.

 For Damas' custom, Hal didn't say a single word, just nodded, understanding the message, and entered the elevator.

 The entire descent was silent, Keira was still trying to absorb what had happened and how she would get out of there alive. She wasn't a fighter, she wasn't like Jak, she was a mechanic, an inventor.

—It won't do any good. — Keira commented as soon as the elevator door opened.

—Don't make me regret what I did.

 —Hal…

—Our training will begin after lunch.

—I'm not a warrior.

—You don't have a choice here, Keira. Your life belongs to Spargus.

 A line passed through Keira's head, but she knew she would be making a serious mistake. Not wanting to argue further, she followed Hal silently to a house, the woman took a key and unlocked the door to show the empty place.

—This will be your temporary home. If you pass the tests, you can live here permanently.

—Is it more than one?

—Three. Don't forget, after lunch.

 Hal closed the door leaving Keira alone to wonder how she would survive all this to return to the search for her loved ones.

Chapter Text

Jak already tried to teach Keira to fight once, of course it was a disaster, as much as she managed to defeat him by beating his netherlands by accident, it wasn't a good end for the boy, but at least it gave Keira some idea where to hit on someone male.

 Hagai wasn't confident that the training would have any effect on her, Jak hadn't tried to train her once or twice, she'd already lost count of how many times the attempts had been a complete failure, she had no way to hold a measly dagger which Jak gifted him when he turned 11. She believed it was because she was a woman and it was a masculine nature, but as she walked into the training ground and watched other women skillfully fighting with swords, weapons and hand-to-hand combat that idea never seemed so untrue, and in the end, it didn't go away. of a protection Keira used against herself.

 —We will battle every day, morning and afternoon. I asked to be released from missions, so I'll have time to prepare you. — Hal commented crossing the area to the other side, Keira followed. —Have you ever trained before?

—It didn't work. But I know how to put a wrench in someone's head if necessary. — Keira replied, stopping to walk when she saw Hal adjust a piece of equipment that was unknown to her, but that made her curious to know. She would dismantle that in a heartbeat.

—What are we gonna do today?

—I need to see your reflections. It's no use me teaching you how to throw a punch if the enemy can knock you out in the first second, but that shit doesn't want to work. — Hal complained, kicking the equipment to no avail.

—I can look? —Keira asked with Hal's consent, she approached the machine analyzing its entire structure. The eldest watched Keira's work silently, until she heard the familiar noise she had fixed.

—Ready. — replied Kira.

—You are good. Let's get started, stay there.

—What do I need to do?

 —Dodge the balls without moving too far, I'll try to hit you. — Hal explained as Keira positioned herself. —Ready?

 Keira nodded positively focusing her gaze on the pipe where the ball would come out, but in less than a second she felt the impact of the ball on her legs. She fell to her knees from the force of the impact, not realizing it would hurt so much.

—Get up, the enemy won't stop knocking you out just because you fell. —Hal replied activating the machine, Keira didn't have time to react, the impact of the object with her face was grotesque. Keira's entire torso was thrown to the ground, Keira's face hurt like hell, tears splattered Hagai's eyes with intense pain, she spat on the ground seeing blood come out of her mouth.

 Footsteps were heard and then Hal's shadow shielded him from the sun.

—Dead. — she replied coldly, still watching Keira recover from the blows, that would be harder than she imagined. —Come on, now that we've started.

 Keira watched her return to her position, the thought of running away driving her mad.

—Do you want to see your friends or not? —Hal asked waiting for Keira to get up off the floor.

 All Keira wanted most was to be able to say hello or even good-bye to her father, Jak, and even Daxter. She needed to find them. Taking a deep breath, she got up fearfully, her legs still shaking from the impact of the ball seconds ago, moving them apart in order to keep her balance and not fall.

—Can send. —Keira replied firmly, but it only took one shot in the stomach for her to fall to the ground.

—I am waiting. — Hal shouted, warning that the training wouldn't end there.

 As Keira stood up, she noticed people approaching to watch the training. Seeing a rookie in training was entertainment for Spargus veterans, after all, there was nothing better than seeing the person completely screwed up.

 The afternoon passed quickly for most of the people who dispersed as night fell, but for Keira it felt like an endless punishment; she prayed that the afternoon would go away and she could go home and cry all the pain of those beatings. She felt tired and sore, honestly she didn't know how she still managed to stand up and take it.

 Only when the moon was bright in the sky did Hal stop, Keira's face was swollen from the two balls she'd received, her arms were reddened and Keira's legs were tight and reddened too. She was literally a wreck.

—I'll take you to Yelena. — Hal replied, putting Keira's arm around her neck, seeing that the girl couldn't move a step, everything ached in her.

 All Keira could feel was the metallic taste of blood, every minute of the way Keira turned her face to spit out the liquid that filled her mouth.

 —By the precursors. — Yelena whispered as soon as she saw the pair enter the hospital. She walked quickly over to the two of them checking on Keira's condition. —You never take it easy, do you?"

—That was the basics with her. — Hal argued, following Yelena into a room to tend to Keira.

—And yet I was a failure.— the girl whispered, but it was enough for Hal to hear.

—You didn't go. —she stated.

—How can you be sure? — Keira asked as she was placed on the gurney.

—I want her brand new tomorrow, Yelena.

—I'm not God for miracles, Hal. You destroyed the girl and she walked out of this hospital this morning! She cannot live here. —the blonde complained, taking a cold compress and handing it to Keira to put on her face.

—I'm going to dinner and I'll stop by later. — Hal said leaving the room leaving Yelena and Keira alone.

 Yelena did her job quietly and Keira just watched her friend do the work itself. It was difficult to speak with a swollen face beyond the throbbing muscles without even moving them. Keeping quiet was the best she could do.

 — Here. —Yelena said offering a pill with water to Keira who, with difficulty, took it and took it. —This will ease the muscle aches and deflate your face a little.

 Yelena took a spray and sprayed it on Keira's legs and arms, she could feel her skin with the sting of the product and, unlike what she imagined, it was being pleasant to feel.

 Having done the work, Yelena left without another word. Keira took the opportunity to lie down on the stretcher and rest a little, but tiredness knocked Keira's conscience down, taking her straight to sleep.

*

As soon as she opened his eyes, Yelena came in with a tray of what was supposed to be her dinner. She got up feeling her body less sore, her face not so swollen when she touched it. Yelena wasn't God, but she sure did miracles.

—It's after nine. I brought your dinner early, but you didn't want to wake up. Your sleep is very heavy. — Yelena said placing the tray on Keira's lap, she watched the white soup with some vegetables floating around, not the best view.

—Has Hal ever been through here? —Keira asked taking the spoon.

—Already. She just found out how you were and left. Finish dinner and you'll be free to go home.

—Are you okay? —Keira asked, strange to Yelena's attitude, I could see that she was stressed.

—Nothing you need to worry about. — she replied smiling slightly at Keira who nodded knowing the woman didn't want to talk and she wasn't going to force her. —Good night, Keira.

 She was alone again enjoying the cold breeze from the window of the room she was in, unlike the previous room, this one had only a stretcher, a window was open to ventilate the place. The soup was bland, but nothing Keira complained about, after what she passed any food was welcome.

 When she finished dinner she left the tray on top of the gurney as she didn't know where to leave it and walked out of the room towards the hospital exit. When she arrived at the reception she was stopped by a nurse who stood at the entrance to the hospital.

—Are you Keira Hagai?"

—Yeah.

—Hal asked to deliver this to you, it's a GPS communicator so you can locate your house and receive calls.  —the woman informed leaving then back to work.

 Even though Hal had taken her to the house, it had only been once, so she still had no idea where it was, it would be a long way to get used to that city along with the routine. Opening the GPS, she followed the device to the house again, always attentive to the path she was taking so she could learn. She opened the door with the key Hal had given her and entered the small place going straight to the bathroom, took a long shower and went to the wardrobe to see what clothes they had given her.

She saw that there were at most 5 pieces there, she would have to wash the clothes that she had soiled today. She looked for comfortable clothes and lay down on the bed, the view from her bedroom window was beautiful, she could see some illuminated houses, the fair and the extensive salt sea.

 Admiring the beautiful view, Keira cried herself to sleep.

Chapter Text

Keira narrowly dodged a ball in her face, but found herself in a tricky position to dodge the next attack that landed in her stomach. The blows, even if it hurt, didn't have the impact of the first day, maybe it was because she spent two days being attacked that she didn't care anymore.

—I believe we can go to the next phase. —Hal commented approaching Keira who was trying not to put the coffee out because of the jackpot.

 —I can't dodge two balls in a row.

 —You've improved your reflexes, even without dodging all the balls. —Keira looked confused at Hal who sighed at the girl's lack of understanding. —Raise.

 As soon as Keira was on her feet, Hal moved in to strike her in the face, but was blocked by Hagai's arms. She tried again to deliver a high kick, Keira seeing the movement crouched dodging again.

—Do you realize that you are more attentive to my movements? Your blocking still looks awful, but his chances of winning have increased by five percent. If you know how to use what I'm teaching you, you'll pass. — Hal explained, taking two steps back to gain space. —I'll teach you some moves. Your first test will not be allowed handling any weapons, Checkers will assess your stamina, so you have to improve your body structure.

 Hal reached one arm forward, opening his palm to Keira.

 —Beat.

 With all the strength he had, Hagai punched Hal's hand who didn't even feel the blow.

—Again.

 Keira inserted a sequence of punches in order to get some reaction of pain in Hal, but nothing changed in the woman's features. Over time, the weariness got to Keira and she stopped hitting.

—I'll have to work on technique instead of strength. — Hal commented quietly.

—Like this?

—You don't have the necessary strength against gladiators.

 —Gladiators?! — Keira asked confused.

—Raiders who live in the desert outside the walls. — she explained.

—I thought I'd fight other citizens.

 —We are already few in number, if we were to put on a battle to the death there would be no one left.

—Until death?

—You will have to kill them, Keira.

 Her stomach twisted at the news. Killing people, that was wrong, no, inhumane. Keira was no longer accepting taking someone down, killing was unthinkable.

—I will not do that. — she declared it to Hagai.

—We have a motto here in Spargus. Either you live or you die, I'm not going to discuss something I already informed you.

 Keira swallowed hard with Hal's answer, she didn't like it when the woman got that posture, it looked like she was going to kill or torture her at any moment and that made her afraid.

—What do you intend to teach me? —Hagai asks changing the subject, there's no point in arguing.

 —Men are extremely heavy, even without strength you need to support their body weight so you can carry out the attacks. Have you studied the human body, Keira?

 —My father was a green echo sage. He healed the citizens of the village.

—Green Echo? —Hal asks in surprise. —Green Echo has become a relic, even more so a sage.

 —In my village we had it in abundance, but that was a long time ago.

—It's all right. Moving on, I'm going to ask you to study the muscular system, you can ask Yelena for books on that. Now I want you to do 2 laps around the area with those weights and then we'll continue your punches.

—How much does it weigh? — Keira asks looking at the weights.

 —3 kg each. Even without time, I can't put you to carry a weight of 10 kg. Come on, we're wasting time.

—Training has been productive. —Yelena commented, amused to see Keira's condition.

 —You can't imagine, Hal released me because I'm going to use the night to study. — Keira replied putting a spoonful of porridge in her mouth.

 Both were having dinner in the huge public hall, where the main meals of Spargus were made, the place was full of long tables with wooden benches.

—Studying?

 —Yeah, she said I don't have the strength for gladiators, so I need to take down the enemies as soon as possible.

 —Using pressure points. —Yelena replied understanding the idea of Hal. —I can supply my books if you like."

—I would love.

 The two ended the conversation by concentrating on their food, the place had few people so, the clatter of cutlery echoed in the hall along with some small conversations.

 —Yelena.

—Yeah?

 —Do you agree with what they do? — Keira asked the colleague in front of her. From the moment she found out about what she really had to do, her mind couldn't stop thinking about it.

—The tests? — Yelena guesses and Keira nods. The blonde takes a minute to think about all her memories of when she went through Keira's situation and how it drastically changed who she is today. —No. — Keira stops chewing at Yelena's firm, sad tone. —But in the circumstances that Spargus lives unfortunately it is necessary, very necessary. I know it hasn't been easy, Keira. But if you really want to see your family, you have to put yourself through that and much worse.

 —I can not do this. Kill people.

 —Achieving things requires sacrifice. — Yelena cut Keira off, leaving her speechless.

 They finished dinner and the two headed to the hospital where Yelena delivered the books Keira asked for. Using the GPS, Hagai walked home reflecting on what Yelena said, if her father was here he would certainly be against all that and would never let Keira participate in something like that, that was more like Jak, even though the boy was cute. Giving up on studying, Keira walked to the beach where strong waves lapped at the shore. The young woman sat down and sighed calmly with the cold sea breeze, the climate was much more pleasant than the day with the hot sun that gave extreme heat, she never suffered so much with a climate like here.

 With each passing day, Keira recognized herself less. The things she was being forced to do were the complete opposite of her moral conduct, stealing from innocent people, killing people. Just imagining what it would be like on the test day, Keira felt tears of fear welling up, she didn't want to die, but she didn't want to kill anyone either, just to see her family.

 To get things you have to make sacrifices.

 She would have to, in the end, accept what she was becoming, that city was slowly molding her into someone Keira no longer recognized, and she was afraid that when she reunited with her family she would no longer be the same.

Chapter Text

Keira opened her eyes just as her small alarm clock went off, turning it off and remaining in bed. She hadn't been successful in resting her mind a little during the night, the training week passed in the blink of an eye and today she was going to her first battle, she couldn't hide it, she was nervous, afraid. Her training wasn't finished and she still made a lot of mistakes, but she had to admit that, unlike the first day, Keira was making progress, however that didn't ease her mind that was working a thousand an hour with such anxiety.

Hagai looked at the clock again, seeing that she had spent too much time daydreaming, soon Hal would be here to take her to the stadium. She took a quick shower and dressed in the most appropriate clothes for battle, headed to the kitchen, grabbing some toast and a little butter, as soon as she took the first bite, Keira heard a knock on the door, walked calmly and opened it to see Hal in his usual clothes.

— I thought it would be at eight – Keira commented, letting her colleague in.

— I think I need to…go over a few things with you — Hal commented.

— You're not confident I'll pass, are you? — Keira questioned, knowing Hal was nervous too.

—Unharmed? No. But I want you to get out alive. The first part of the challenge is easy, you've worked the runs and climbs well. But the battle… killing someone with bare hands is just as difficult as shooting. I didn't tell you… but the arena is inside a small volcano.

— What?! — Keira exclaimed in surprise again. Honestly she was getting tired of all that secrecy.

—The arena is shrouded in lava. As we trained, your physical size is not strong enough to knock someone out, but with the techniques I taught you, you can push enemies into the lava and end it for good. — Keira nodded remembering the blows, even if she was even more nervous, she needed to focus on the fight.

— Keep calm, despairing won't help. And even if you get punched, you need to process it quickly.

— Or my chances of defeat will be greater — Keira added.

— Exactly — Hal glanced at his wristwatch to see that it was about time. — It's time.

They left Keira's house to the center of the city where the great volcano was located, it was a few minutes' walk that served to put their thoughts in place. They climbed the stairs and walked along the corridor until they reached the arena door. It was impossible for Keira not to sigh in surprise at the sight of the place. The larva bubbled up creating big splashes, the stands were packed and the screams of the citizens echoed in that huge place. Over the lava, four metal platforms floated, it would probably be on one of them that she would fight.

— Jump the small platform ahead and go to that small altar, Damos will talk to you. Hal explained, pointing out the locations. — Good luck.

Without saying a word, Keira jumped onto the platform, which was actually an elevator, and jumped down again, landing on the small altar, the king sitting higher up on his throne.

— Welcome, warrior — Damas responds. — Today you will prove yourself worthy of being one of us. You must know what you need to do. Good luck because we have no mercy. The elevator on your right will take you down to the arena.

Keira didn't dare say a word, the pain in her chest was too great and she couldn't concentrate on anything but the doubt that she would make it out alive. He walked to the elevator again and calmly waited to go down, jumped again falling on one of the four platforms.

— You can release it!

As she made her way to the center of the arena, she saw small houses supported by large metal beams, leaving them suspended in the air, the doors of the houses opened little by little, Keira guessed that was where the enemies of the wasteland stayed, the bandits fell from one by one and they advanced little by little towards Keira who positioned her fists. She tried to quickly count the number of warriors and gulped when she finished counting.

“Twenty people, I need to kill twenty people”, she thought.

The first one didn't take long to approach and attack with the sword from above, Hagai dodged to the side listening to the clang of the sword in contact with the ground. She thought she would recover, but it wasn't long before she was slashed across the back by the other warrior, the scream of surprise at how much pain was inevitable, Keira heard the audience cheering and thought how insane these people were to find her suffering amusing.

She wanted to fall to her knees, but she found enough strength in her legs to run away from the warriors who were already amassed, Keira knew it would be difficult to defeat one by one being so close and without a weapon it made everything impossible. She looked back seeing that she was at the edge of the platform, one slip and she would fall into the larva, she turned forward, seeing some lone warriors coming to attack her, she took a deep breath and advanced against the soldiers sliding between her legs as soon as she arrived giving a punch in the intimate parts, she was happy to see the man fall to his knees, she was quick to approach him, grab his head and push it to the ground as hard as she could seeing him drop the sword he was holding, she smiled victoriously for having hit the objective not delaying in picking up the weapon and defending herself from the next one who attacked her.

She tried to repel the attack and move as quickly as she could, seeing that they were coming, she cursed herself for seeing that she was just running away, but, deep down, she knew that she still didn't have the courage to kill, she had a sword in her hand, but no could handle it.

Keira felt tears spring to his eyes as he dodged the twenty men thirsting for his blood, he would die of exhaustion if he continued in that endless running cycle, he would not get anywhere without being a late death. He closed his eyes seeing the image of Samos, Daxter and Jak standing there, giving him a soft smile, his heart squeezed in longing for his friends. She was startled when she lost her balance and fell to the ground, she opened her eyes, desperate for the mistake, she turned around ready to get up, but as soon as she did, she received a strong punch from the soldier who stole the sword, she felt the blood fill her mouth, but he didn't have time to react as the man put his hands around his neck ready to break it. Keira gasped at the enemy's grip, saw the soldier smile sadistically at his despair, and hated herself even more for being so stupid.

She wasn't going to see his father or his friends. Not Jack.

Keira clenched his teeth feeling the anger predominate in his heart for throwing the opportunity to see his family away, he screamed with everything he had holding the gun tightly and sticking it in the soldier's neck, blood spurted on Keira's face, dirtying the sword too. She wouldn't give in, she couldn't, they were trying to kill her, there was no need for mercy.

She pushed the soldier's dead body away and got up as quickly as he could. Even creating courage, his body shook with the chaos of feelings that took over his body and mind, he had killed a human.

“Now there's no turning back”, thought Keira screaming and running towards her enemies.

She repeated the same movement she did to get the sword, only this time she hit the two legs of one of the soldiers, without looking back she continued attacking the warriors in any way she could, a soldier took her by surprise pushing her from the side making Keira fall on the ground, he didn't take long to jump on her with the sword, Hagai held back the sword's attack with only one hand, unluckily he didn't have enough strength and the weapon was very close to his neck, so he had to be fast enough to stick his sword in the soldier's belly.

As soon as he pushed the body another one followed, but Keira was faster in pushing with her leg throwing the man away, moaning in pain still from the cut on her back, but trying to put the pain in the back of her thoughts, all she needed to focus on was on killing the other 18 soldiers, he ran to get some distance and think of a strategy.

It wasn't the way she planned the fight, she had trained in techniques so as not to kill anyone, but in the end she had blood on her hands, if that chaos had already started let it end, she realized that the soldiers had a pattern about attack always wanting to take her to the ground with the force, he needed to be careful with the first attack and prevent him from falling to the ground.

Another soldier was coming towards him and he thought of an idea for him not to deposit his weight on her, he ran quickly and jumped as high as he could and attacked with a sword, as expected by Keira he deposited his strength in defense wanting to push her to the ground again, she took the opportunity and grabbed his arm forcing him to go along with her because of the strength that he himself put giving momentum to Hagai to stay on top facilitating the attack, before the soldier fell to the ground she used her body to continue on top and jump on top of each other getting easier, if you didn't have enough strength you would use theirs in your favor.

She managed to kill 10 soldiers with the technique, unfortunately it didn't last forever, one had the smartness to hold her back and push her hard to the ground, she felt her arm hurt taking another painful scream, she tried to move, but it only made the situation worse. There she had become aware of gravity, her shoulder dislocated.

The breath seemed to run out for Hagai seeing that she had lost her left arm without knowing how she would deal with the 7 soldiers she had left, she was so focused on the problem that she didn't notice the leg hitting her stomach, the kick was strong enough to make her - it rotates good meters. He stopped on his stomach, getting up only with the strength of his right arm that still held the sword, he made a point of never losing the only weapon he had. His body was shaking from the effort of all that battle, he didn't know how long he was there, it seemed like hours. He looked to the side seeing the soldiers running euphoric to see his critical condition. Even knowing his situation he couldn't lose hope after everything he did, he didn't kill 13 men to die in the end.

Keira positioned his left arm close to his body and adjusted the sword in his hand, walking slowly, she had no more stamina to run, so he would deal with the remaining 7 as accurately as possible. As Keira had already observed, the soldier tried to use his strength on her, pushing her, instead of using that trick to climb on him, Hagai pulled him along with her towards the ground and used the momentum to push him up. throwing him to the other side, getting up, he ran towards him who was still getting up and threw the sword in his face making a grotesque cut. He repeated the process twice more before stabbing the sword in the middle of his chest. She turned to the other 6 and prayed to the Precursors that she managed to maintain this tactic, she had no more ideas with only one arm.

She screamed aloud in the hope of making her body react and end that suffering as quickly as possible, everything was just a blur for her in those final moments; When he realized something, he heard the audience going crazy, he looked at those people screaming crazy and then at the trail of dead bodies, blood was everywhere on the platform. A sharp pain hit her belly and only at that second did she turn to her stomach seeing a gun going through her, Keira was dizzy when she realized that she was hit by the last soldier and she was so sedated by adrenaline that only then did she realize the wound. 

She fell to her knees still mesmerized with the sword inside her, she let go of the weapon she was holding, she brought her good hand trembling to the sword slowly in an attempt to remove it, but as soon as she touched the sheath and forced it a little the pain became a thousand times worse, lost strength and dropped his arm. Even all hurt, Keira allowed herself to smile, she did it, she defeated everyone and she was alive. Your way to see your loved ones was closer.

Chapter Text

— Keira, can you hear me? Stay.

— Uhum — she murmured sleepily, her body felt heavy and she was on the verge of unconsciousness. She could feel that she was being dragged by two thin but strong arms, but nothing more than that, wherever she was going she hoped she could rest.

— Prepare the operating room! I want a tray with warm water and cloths, a sterilized needle, scalpel, morphine, alcohol and an IV bag.

She frowned at the loud voice close to his ear, all Keira needed was the good, glorious silence to renew her energy. He felt himself lying down on something and sighed slightly to finally rest his legs.

— You did well, Hagai. Very good — Hal's voice seemed far away, but he couldn't help but smile at the compliment, yes, she had done it and could rest now.

— Yelena, take care of her — Hal asked, seeing Keira being taken unconscious.

— I won't let her die — she assured.

—Hal. — he looked at the communicator that rested on his waist and pulled it out to answer the call.

- Yes sir.

— In my room, now — the line went silent without giving the woman a chance to agree, she looked again at the corridor where Keira followed and sighed tiredly knowing that she should trust Yelena's abilities, she walked calmly to the Damas room that was waiting for her with a guest.

— What do we have here — Hal commented smiling as soon as he noticed Sig's figure.

— Good to see you too — greeted the woman with a handshake. — I heard you have a disciple.

— Not exactly, I just thought it would be right to help you.

— Damas was telling me the story, is she from Haven? — Sig asked and Hal denied.

—According to her, it's not from this era. It is believed to have come from the past.

— A little hard to believe — he commented thoughtfully.

— She didn't pose any risks to the city, so I don't see why to distrust the girl, we saw that fighting is not her main skill.

— But it can become one, if well trained — Damas intervened for the first time, drawing their attention. — I must admit that the girl surprised me with the training she offered her in a week.

— She has resilience — Hal replied.

— Is the girl okay? — Sig asked.

— In surgery due to the sword stuck in the stomach. — the man widened his eyes, surprised by the sentence.

— And is she alive? She has resistance — he said, smiling. — Well, I need to get back before Krew suspects I'm missing. I'll bring you more news as soon as possible.

— Are you planning to return? — Hal questioned Sig, who stopped walking to look at the woman.

— Six months from now, why?

— Keira will enjoy talking to you. She wants to go back to Haven, it seems like her family is there. She can accompany you in espionage and serve as support. — Sig nodded.

— I'll keep in touch and see what I can do.

Sig entered the elevator and Hal only turned to the king as soon as the transport disappeared.

— Something? — she asked, receiving denial from Damas.

—Sig will find him, believe me.

— It's difficult to maintain hope after so long — Damas lamented. — I know that city better than anyone, it can be cruel when it wants to be. — He remained silent for a while before returning to his usual posture. — Your colleague is stronger than she looks for staying alive after staying in that city with nothing.

— Did you call me just to praise you?

— I'm preparing her first mission — he informed her.

— Of course it is — Hal countered.

— Let me know as soon as she's recovered, Kleiver is doing maintenance on the car so she'll be fine once she's discharged.

— As you wish. Can I go now?

— You know you don't need all that — Damas replied, going to the throne and sitting down.

— I like to be real in my performances.

— It's just us. You are not my subordinate.

— No, but I like to believe that it works that way. Just don't think this lets you off the hook for me, I can still defeat you just as easily.

— I know that, and I intend not to forget it.

She again tasted the food that was already familiar to his taste, he could say it was bad, but after what he had been through, any food would be welcome in his mouth, even if the soup was as bland as possible.

— Your recovery is going well — Yelena informed, entering the room with Keira's clipboard. — The wound on your back is healed and the wound on your belly will be fine in four days. You will soon return to your home.

Hearing this was like music for Keira, honestly it was creating a certain dislike for hospitals, maybe because of spending so much time there, I didn't know how Yelena managed to work there.

— You're too much of a warrior to live here for 12 hours of your day — she replied, catching Yelena's attention, who laughed.

— It's not an easy job, but I'd rather save lives than suffer in the desert outside.

— Were you a warrior before coming here? — the blue one asked in surprise.

— Just like you, after going through initiation I did missions with warriors and alone, I promised myself I wouldn't do that again, I decided to study medicine and channel a little echo, I asked Damas to relocate me.

— They channel echo here?! — asked Keira in surprise. It's the first time he's heard something he knows about other than cars.

— In extremely rare cases. Eco has become an inestimably expensive item, so we can't enjoy it like we used to.

Keira nodded, absorbing the information, she began to think about what her next step would be when she recovered, even though she was relieved that the fight was over, she knew that things would be more difficult.

— Don't worry, you'll do fine — Yelena said, seeing Hagai's worried expression. — I heard you fix things.

— Driving too — she added.

— Maybe that's your job, the missions are carried out in cars that can withstand the sand and the temperature outside. You can help Kleiver in the workshop part. Although working with that fat stopper…

— What did you say? — Keira asked, seeing Yelena whisper the last sentence.

— What? Oh! Nothing, no.

The youngest looked suspiciously at the nurse, but decided not to force her. Whatever it was, she hoped it wouldn't cause any problems for her, she already had a lot of bad things on her plate.

Knocking sounded on the door and Hal appeared then, she was wearing a completely different outfit than usual, something completely lighter and softer.

— Good morning.

— Did Damas give you a break? — Yelena asked, analyzing Hal from head to toe and the woman nodded.

— I asked, now things have calmed down in Westland. But it's a short time.

— It's not surprising that you're his trusted warrior — the blonde commented smiling and Hal rolled his eyes at his colleague's exaggeration.

— I fulfill my duties. Only that. Now, let's get down to business: how is Keira?

— Practically 100% new. The wound in his stomach is what is really delaying his stay here, but we managed to find some efficient medicine that has speeded up the healing process.

— Forecast for discharge?

Keira watched as Hal asked about her situation and immediately suspected something was coming. I'd like to think the woman was worried about her safety, maybe she was, but she had an idea that Hal was Damas' spokesperson and the king needed to test her strength to make her a citizen of Spargus.

— What does Damaz plan? — Keira asked, interrupting the conversation between the two who looked at Hagai.

— You're getting good at this — Hal commented. — He has already prepared his first mission, but wants to make sure he is well enough to do it. I'm trying to tell him to be patient since it's not up to you to get it completely better.

— Damas is insane.

— Understand, Yelena. We are in a complicated situation, we need good drivers as quickly as possible to face the desert out there, most of the citizens have escaped the exploitative guard and we are at a loss. Someone with Keira's skills could be what we need. Believe me, girl, Damas liked you.

Her eyes widened when she saw Hal turning to her informing her of the king's clear interest, she didn't know exactly what his plans were with her, but she hoped that this would be beneficial to the point of being able to return to Haven, she didn't want to be stuck here.

— I need to go back to Haven, see my family, I can't be stuck here.

— Damas and I are fully aware of this, we have a spy there who rarely visits us, unfortunately, and we can send you with him as soon as possible, but you need to get citizenship and until then, the king will use you in whatever way he can. .

— All good. Let's get this over with.

A week later

— Look if it's not the new girl — Keira took a good look at the man who was certainly overweight, he had a good number of scars proving that he had already been through hell.

They were at the city's gateway, a small garage held a collection of cars that Hagai couldn't help but be enchanted by, she had never seen cars of that model. Damas was present along with another man she had never seen, but knew they would have a very complicated relationship.

— Keira, this is Kleiver, he is responsible for our vehicle workshop. If you want to join our city's mechanics, he's the one you'll work with — Damas said. — Hal must have commented during his recovery about our exploring team, there are many dangerous things in the Wasteland desert, but they are also valuable and we need the best runners to face the most difficult battles, whether with looters or metal heads.

— Metal heads? — Keira asked confused.

— Never seen one? They are monsters that feed on dark echo. They are capable of tearing a body apart in minutes, fast and extremely strong. I would be very careful if I came across one. — Keira swallowed hard at Damas' description, yet another problem to deal with.

— I very much doubt that this chica last a long time to at least see a metal head. I would kill her instantly. — frowned at the man's audacity, realized that Kleiver was a pain in the ass and would certainly make Keira's life a living hell.

— Your first mission is reconnaissance. We found a valuable item with the sandstorms, luckily it's very close by, so it won't be difficult for you to bring it.

— Which of the beauties will I use? — Keira asked, focusing again on the cars. I would spend days dismantling and assembling everything.

— If you think you're going to touch my babies, you're wrong. girl. Be content with that one over there — Kleiver replied pointing to a simple car, without any weapons.

— No weapons?

— Like I said: recognition.

She nodded silently, knowing that there was no point in arguing, even so she still had the pistol provided by Hal before coming, it was well hidden under her clothes and would remain that way. He walked to the car, getting into it with the help of the upper red iron bars and took a good look at the structure of the small but comfortable vehicle with very practical functions.

— At least you know how to drive a car, chica ? — Kleiver asked, causing a deep sigh from Keira who didn't dare answer, she looked at the pedals below and wondered if they had the same functionality as the vehicles she created at that time.

— What were vehicles like in your time? — Damas asked, seeing Keira's look. Kleiver laughed when he saw that Hagai wouldn't move.

— Well, what I produced had a clutch, accelerator and brake.

—So nothing has changed. See the pedal on the left? Clutch, the middle one is the brake, the right one is the accelerator, next to it the gear. — Keira nodded, recapping how it worked, turned the key in the ignition and smiled when she saw that she understood. He approached the gate, waiting for it to open while he put on his glasses and a cloth over his mouth, covering his face completely.

He put his hand face to face with the thick layer of dust that came towards him, if the city was hot, that desert was hell on Earth. As soon as she saw the vast desert in front of her, Keira felt her heart accelerate in anxiety, she accelerated mercilessly away from the city of Spargus towards her destination. He looked at the GPS attached to the car to check where he should go, it was a little far, but Keira believed she could do it in an hour, she turned forward, stepping more on the accelerator towards the unknown.

This moment was more liberating than Keira imagined, as if nothing she had been through or was going through was true, the feeling of freedom was overwhelming and for the first time she smiled, happy to be away from the whole nightmare. He stepped on the clutch and increased the gear, going even faster, the sun was burning hotly, much to the discomfort of the woman who felt her head hurt slightly. At a glance, he saw figures approaching through the rear camera.

“Looters”, thought Hagai, knowing what he would have to face. The demons of the Wasteland who plundered, destroyed and killed anything in sight; Hal commented about them and how she should be cautious when facing them, if the vehicle rolled over it would certainly be the end.

It didn't take long to increase the speed even further, always paying attention to the GPS so as not to lose the location, he saw a small river pass by and was surprised to see that there was water nearby, however little it was. He noticed, as he passed, that the water gave the car more traction, making it very slow. His despair was greater when he saw the wider path.

“I knew I should have insisted more on a gun”

She stepped, in an uncontrolled frenzy, on the accelerator, confident that she would get out of there and was startled when she felt the thump of one of the cars against her, they had already reached her. She looked at the simple dashboard of the vehicle in an attempt to find something that would make her get out of there, she didn't even notice when two more cars were next to her, trapping her.

“Fuck, fuck, fuck”

She pressed the suspension button in the hope that the vehicle would jump and she could accelerate to get out of the prison made by the looters. Unfortunately for him, the car barely got off the ground and out of place. She kept stepping on the accelerator in the hope of getting out of the water and being able to gain speed on the sandy land, the cars pressed her further, letting Keira's despair grow even more in the midst of that strong storm, she was relieved when she reached the small sand island and got the speed I wanted to get out of there. Knowing how to proceed, he pressed the suspension button again and accelerated as much as he could so as not to have to go through the choking water again.

He turned the steering wheel once, realizing that he would hit a cactus and the vehicle skidded on the sand, causing him to lose control. Keira screamed as she tried to balance the car, but Hagai didn't have a chance before an enemy car hit hers with force, causing the car to overturn. Hagai could feel the car turning over and over again, leaving her head dizzy from the repeated movements, she couldn't say how long it stayed like that, but at some point the car stopped to her relief, unfortunately it was upside down.

The belt he was using managed to stabilize Keira in the vehicle, preventing her from falling out or sustaining any more serious injuries. With difficulty, he managed to free himself from the object and get out from under the car to observe where he was, he took out the hidden pistol and cocked it the way Hal had taught him, he began to walk around observing everything around him in case any looters appeared. Keira knew she would need to hide and see what she would do, the car was useless now and would be her last objective, with it overturned she had lost her GPS and didn't know where the artifact was.

The winds got stronger making it even more difficult for Keira to see, she needed to hide and see how she would react from there, maybe wait for the looters to disperse before going back to the car and try to turn it around alone, or go back to Spargus and ask help...I knew it would be shameful, but it was Hagai's most sensible decision. However, in the environment she was in, what she was dealing with, she knew that she had to deal with the obstacles and difficulties, only then would she survive there.

After a long walk, he found a small opening between the rocks that could fit his slender body and hid as best he could, the sandstorm was uncontrollable at that moment and Keira sighed for having found the tiny cave at the right time.

She didn't let go of her weapon for a single moment, even though she saw how the enemies had disappeared, they certainly hid from the storm just like she did. He brought his knees close to his chest and rested his chin, looking outside. Over time, she could feel her body burn due to the scorching temperature, it was as if she was about to combust, her forehead began to sweat and her throat was dry due to the lack of water, her glands no longer even produced saliva.

Keira removed her glasses for the first time, as well as the cloth that covered her head, that heavy clothing was suffocating her in that small space. Hagai tried to control her breathing and the despair that grew in her mind when she realized that she was alone, outside the city in a desert where she knew nothing. She didn't know if she was close to the city or even the car, all she did was run without looking back.

Water filled the edges of her eyes and Keira took the opportunity to take them and lick them, feeling the salty taste, even though it did little to relieve her tongue as it enjoyed the liquid. His head hurt badly due to the temperature and tiredness began to take over his body, he didn't even realize it when it completely disappeared.

She opened her eyes little by little, her body hurt because of the position she was in, she couldn't move much since she was in a compact place and it was there that Keira realized what was happening, she was lost in the middle of the desert. He looked outside, seeing darkness take over, the storm had gone away and now everything was calm, Keira crawled outside, feeling the hair on her body stand up from the cold gust of wind. Hours, at least, had passed since the incident, he thought for a moment if he would walk to the car to check the GPS and see which way he was going, but at the moment his legs were shaking due to lack of strength and he suspected he couldn't walk very far.

He wondered if the artifact was still in sight after all this time, Damas had informed him that these objects appeared and disappeared with storms, so they needed to be quick to look for them. Judging by the long hours of his swoon, the artifact had certainly mixed the sands again. As usual, she had failed in her first mission, Damas and Kleiver must have already considered her dead and wouldn't even come after her since she wasn't a citizen yet. But she would prove that she was worthy of being someone for that city, she needed it if she wanted to return to Haven, if she wanted to see her father, Daxter and Jak, she beat 20 men in an arena inside the volcano, she could handle a damn desert .

An idea crossed her mind and she smiled at how crazy it was, but she was out of options, so this was the only one she thought was good. He started walking, still holding his pistol ready for any unforeseen event, he didn't know if the looters would appear at night, but if they did it would be even better than waiting until dawn. If the sun was scorching in the morning and indolent at night, spending more than a few days here would certainly kill someone slowly and tortuously. She hoped she could get to the car, trying to remember where she came from, but everything there seemed the same and again panic set in if she got completely lost, she shook her head to purge the bad thoughts, she had to believe she could do it.

He quickened his pace, being careful not to slip on that soft sand, he saw something up ahead and squinted his eyes to see better, feeling a twinge of hope he hurried to run and his smile widened when he saw his car being fixed by two looters, their own cars were parked nearby and Keira had never considered herself so lucky, surely they showed up to steal anything useful from her vehicle after the storm. She took advantage of the distraction to go to one of the cars and get in without being seen, she sat in the driver's seat and looked at the key in the ignition ready to be used, it didn't take long to start the car scaring the two looters with the noise of the engine; With his adrenaline high, seeing that the bandits started coming towards him, he took the pistol and shot the two who fell dead on the ground.

He put the gun away and saw that his car was almost overturned again, he drove the stolen vehicle and pushed it enough to put the other one in the right position, he left the car running and went to the other one to check the GPS at the last recorded location, he sat on the seat. and started the engine, seeing that it was still running, she smiled, relieved that her plan had gone so well. He left the two cars behind and continued on his way to the location mentioned on the GPS, he stopped as soon as he arrived and got out of the car checking if he could find anything valuable in the sandy lands, but nothing, the ground was clean. Not giving up easily, he fell to his knees and began to search the area around him, it was still there, just covered in sand, even if Keira had to create a crater, she would return to Spargus with that artifact.

Hagai was digging hard, was this the tenth place she was looking for? She didn't know, but she would continue until the skin on her fingers was gone. She stopped, tired from the effort, her fingers were calloused from digging, she didn't even know if she was in the right place to look and from here another storm would come...

“Sandstorm”, thought Keira looking at the parked car, the idea had come at a good time, she got up and went to the car, starting it again while adjusting her glasses, she would create her own sandstorm.

The car skidded, this time more controlled, causing the sand to rise quickly, the car continually rolled, already losing sight of the space there was for the rising sand. He continued doing this for another 5 minutes until he stopped and got out of the car looking again at the place with the whirlpools still standing, he ran to have a greater reach, but Keira hit something and fell to the ground, he looked back seeing a really shiny object and he smiled when he saw that he had achieved it. With all the strength he had, which wasn't much, he pulled the artifact out of the sand and grabbed it. He allowed himself to rest a little when he achieved his objective. As soon as her breathing regulated she got back in the car and drove back to Spargus thanks to the GPS, just imagining her bed, a good shower and water made her cry. He was at his limit, if he continued in that desert a little longer Keira would become one with him, she saw the same river that caused her fall and wanted to stop to drink water, but she felt something hit the bottom of her car and she knew immediately that looters they were already coming towards her, she stepped on the accelerator hard and used the same suspension tactic to pass there, this time she had managed it even though she was slow, she drove like crazy and when she saw the entrance gate to the city.

“A little more, a little more. Open the gate, open it!”

As soon as he got close enough, the gate opened allowing him entry and closed automatically, prohibiting the bandits from entering; she braked the car at once and continued inside, absorbing that all that chaos was over, she had made it. She didn't care that she was still in the car, sweaty, hungry and thirsty, her body was sore, her mind was begging for rest and that's what she did when she passed out again.

Chapter Text

She sighed deeply, smelling the scent of lavender, the breeze continually ruffled her hair, relieving all the tension from hours ago. It was all so refreshing, but Keira was in a scorching desert, fighting for survival, that thought made Hagai open her eyes and check her surroundings. Her eyes widened at the beauty of the place: a vast open-air field full of lavender that shook according to the movements of the wind, she looked at the ground seeing that she was sitting on soft green grass and above her head a large and extensive The tree provided pleasant shade.

Had it all been a dream? All that chaos, the despair, the fear. A very well made piece. Satisfied with where she was, she remained leaning against the tree, enjoying that glorious and numbing moment, she was relieved that it was all an invention of her head, even though she didn't know where she was, any place was better than Spargus or even Heaven. Maybe she was dead and this was paradise, she was okay with that oddly enough. His spirit was at peace.

Still observing the lavender field, she saw a figure take shape as it approached, she narrowed his eyes, suspicious of what it could be, but all doubts evaporated as soon as he recognized who it was.

 — Jak — Keira whispered in disbelief. She got up from the ground and ran with all his might, each time Jak's image became clearer, the more Hagai's smile opened, he was here, he came to meet her and Keira couldn't be happier. She didn't let him speak, she threw herself on top of him hugging him with all the strength she had, she wanted to feel him completely to make sure he was real and not an illusion in her head. — I'm so happy you're here, so happy. I missed you so much.

Jak didn't say anything, just wrapped his arms around her waist and squeezed her as tight as he could. They spent long minutes in that position and if it depended on Hagai's will it would remain that way, but she needed to see his face properly, talk to him, hear his adventures. It had been so long. She loosened his grip and tried to separate himself from his friend, but he at least moved.

— Jak, let go of me, I need to see you — Keira asked, trying to get away from him, but with each attempt his grip became stronger and it started to scare her. — Jak, please, you're hurting me.

The calloused hands on her back changed, she could feel it, something thin and certainly sharp. He looked at his neck and his eyes widened when he saw the purple tone on his skin. Pushing him with all his strength he finally saw his friend's face to the shock of Keira who screamed in horror with sharp teeth and completely black eyes, that wasn't her friend pleasant.

— JAK!

She opened his eyes, shaking his entire body in despair, his body was immersed in the water and ended up sinking with the frantic movements caused by the nightmare. Where the hell was she?

— Keira, calm down.

— Where? — she tried to ask, but she was still confused by everything.

— Calm down, come — Damas said calmly as he helped her get up. — We found you passed out in the car, Yelena took care of you and because of your dehydration we decided to bring you to my room.

At that moment Keira observed the place she was resting and was amazed at the size of the place, where was that in Spargus? The water was cold and refreshing, several plants were placed around the room, making it pleasant. Was she really in Spargus?

— Where am I?

— In the throne room.

— Oh. 

— Your dehydration was severe, spending two days in that desert without water. It's too much for anyone.

Keira's eyes widened at the king's sentence, from her point of view it had only been a day, she wondered how long she had been uncoordinated.

—The artifact…

— It was kept. You did well. Now, we want to know what happened for a reconnaissance mission lasting at most 2 hours to turn into two days.

— The looters... they cornered me and overturned the vehicle, I didn't have a weapon to destroy the cars. I ran away and hid in a tiny cave and ended up blacking out when I woke up at night, I managed to steal a car from the looters and killed them, I fixed the car and went after the artifact.

— But the storm had already passed — refuted Damas, wondering how she found something like that in the middle of that sand.

— I caused a sandstorm with the car. — Damas couldn't be more shocked by Hagai's response, it's a smart, very smart idea.

— You surprise me with each passing day, Keira. Stay here as long as you need, the water is safe to drink. I have a meeting, so I'll go out now and let Yelena and Hal know you're awake.

Still silent, Keira waved and watched Damas enter the elevator and disappear from her sight, leaving her alone. She swam to the stone walkway and got out of the water, she decided to walk all over the place and stopped at the huge windows that gave a full view of the city at sunset, she lost himself in that beautiful view focusing on every detail of the city, every building, person, paths and breathtaking sunsets. She wanted to be traumatized by everything that was happening, the complete upheaval in her life, but she confesses that all the adrenaline and experience she was living there was unique and never, living with her father, who would go through everything she went through, she wouldn't be the same anymore and she hoped that Jak and her father would someday accept what she was. That was one of the few things she feared.

— Keira.

She looked back to see Hal in his usual clothes, her face was calm, but she saw relief in her eyes. She smiled at the woman showing that he was fine and she smiled back.

— Are you hungry? — Hal asked.

— Others.

— Come, dinner will be served soon. Unless you still want to enjoy the luxury that Damas offered you — she replied smiling, but Keira denied it.

— I'm fine, and I wanna see Yelena.

Hal waved and turned and headed back to the elevator.

— Our incredible warrior! — Yelena celebrated by hugging Keira. — I'm so happy to see you're okay.

— Also.

— Go help yourself. We'll stay here —Hal instructed.

She walked to the small line, taking the tray and being served on it, returning Keira stopped to look at the two women talking animatedly and couldn't help but smile, she missed Sandover, Jak and her father, even Daxter, but she wouldn't deny it. seeing the two people who have supported her the most until now, she was able to feel, even a little, the feeling of being at home.

Chapter Text

It was becoming habitual; the sequence of blows, dodges, strength and agility. Training in the preparation camp is a routine that Keira decided to integrate into her new life, she liked the adrenaline and the evolution that all the hard work gives her. To tell the truth, to Hagai's surprise, she liked Spargus.

It might seem impossible with everything she went through in her attempt to return to Heaven, a detail that Keira never forgot her real objective, but she found friends here, a job with a horrible boss, but who inspired her every day to produce extremely powerful and test cars. them in the desert.

It was still difficult, it had only been three months and she still needed to complete the last test which would take place next week. The training was more intense than last time and Hagai felt like she was at her limit, but she would do it for Jak, Daxter and Samos.

— Hagai.

She stopped his movements and turned to look at Eos approaching.

— Damas requested your presence — he replied neutrally.

— Any idea of the order? — Keira asked, receiving denial from the man.

— All I can tell you is that it’s serious.

— Alright, thank you Eos.

— Always, Hagai.

She walked to the throne room, feeling the scorching sun burning her back, her body was still sweating from the training asking for a shower, but according to Eos' words, if she were to leave Damas waiting, she would certainly be punished.

As I went up in the elevator, I could feel the cold breeze of the approaching place due to the plants and lakes that made the place extremely refreshing, different from the rest of the city. When she reached the top, Keira could see the figure of the king sitting on the throne.

—King Checkers. I came as soon as I received the message — warned Keira, but the man at least moved, his expression was pure concern and Keira wondered what would make the man so worried and still call her. Like it or not, Hagai was still a rookie.

— Hal has been missing for three days. — That had caught Keira off guard. — She was sent on a mission, but we haven't heard from her since. I know I should think the worst, but Hal is certainly not dead and something very serious has happened.

She knew very well about Hal's departure as she herself was training her when she left, as usual the details of the mission were not released leaving Keira without knowing anything, certainly something very serious considering what was happening. But something didn't add up to it all.

— Why me?

Damas, for the first time, raised his head and looked into Keira's eyes. A slight shiver passed down her spine, the king's gaze was always sharp and cold, and in a situation like that it only got worse, but Keira didn't dare show weakness, hiding her feelings had been one of the skills she managed to develop well and she couldn't be more grateful.

— Why not you? She is her student and a great mechanic. If the problem is in the vehicle, you can solve it.

— Do you think the problem is just with the vehicle? — she replied automatically, Hal was too smart and it wouldn't be a car that could stop her. He was surprised when he saw Damas laugh at his answer.

—She taught you well. Your last test is close, this mission can give you advantages.

— Where was she last seen?

— Northern region of the desert about 18 mile away. These are regions that we avoid stepping on because they belong to monks.

— Friar?

— There are sanctuaries in that region where monks reside under the belief of the precursors, we almost don't go around that region unless necessary and it's always Hal who goes. The desert is unknown even to me after years, secret entrances, metal head houses among other things you won't rather see.

— Why only her?

—She didn't tell you? — Damas asked in confusion. — Well, that's not my decision.

“I'll get ready and leave,” Keira decided.

— I'll order Kleiver to prepare a car for you. We'll meet in the garage.

She nodded and walked as quickly as she could to her house, showered and put on clothes suitable for the hot desert along with her glasses, grabbed her small quick repair bag and ran to the garage where Kleiver and Damas were already waiting for her.

— I know she's good, but this is too much. She knows that Hal's missions are too secretive and dangerous for a newcomer who hasn't yet completed her citizenship tests.

— Hal trusts her, so I trust her too.

She held back a small smile so as not to give away that he had heard the conversation. She hated that Kleiver always underestimated her, she tried very hard not to start an argument with him and send him to a place that even the precursors would doubt.

— I'm ready. — the two turned as soon as they heard Keira's voice.

— Great, Kleiver prepared theDune Hopper for you.

She liked the sound of it, she had already repaired it a few times, and improved its suspension, it’s one of the cars she was curious to test, but Kleiver unfortunately never allowed it.

— Wait, if this car is suitable for the temple region, why didn't Hal take it? — Keira asked, knowing that that vehicle was the only one with large propulsions.

— The last visible sign of her was near that region, even though she didn't have a suitable car, it's not impossible that Hal went to the mountain. That's why you'll go to Dune. — Keira threw the small repair bag into the Hooper and climbed into the driver's seat. — The car has a transmitter, we will follow your signal through the car once you arrive at your destination. And Keira.

— Yes.

— Take care. — it was the first time that Hagai saw Damas give her a different look than usual, so she didn't know how to react better than a brief wave and get into the driver's seat without taking long to start the car and drive through the long desert.

As usual, a group of looters appear ready to attack her, even though the car is extremely tall, its suspension could be a facilitator to knock it down, so Keira activated the jump and the Hooper's turbo, moving her away from her pursuers, she looked to the GPS to make sure you didn't deviate from the path and stepped on the accelerator more when you saw you were on the right route.

A looter was right in front of her, but she destroyed the car effortlessly with the vehicle's explosive weapons, she drove quickly, anxious for them to lose sight of her in the small sandstorms, after long minutes she was surprised to see the which appeared to be an abandoned city, she looked through the rear viewfinder to see that the cars were no longer chasing her, she braked the car and turned back, watching them go away without even trying to get closer.

“That was new”, thought Keira, this must probably be a sacred city for them, and for her it would be an area of protection in case she had serious problems with them.

Keira turned to observe the deserted city, some jumpers eating what little grass he had walking around calmly, the weather was still warm, but the winds had never been so gentle, probably because of the place. He held himself back from exploring that beautiful and at the same time mysterious city, he had a mission to fulfill, he would come here as soon as he had the opportunity.

She started the vehicle and continued the journey until the last sign seen of Hal, it didn't take long to leave the city, passing over a small elevation quickly reaching the coast, the sound of the waves hitting the rocks was much louder here, she looked around the Looking for any sign, she removed his protective glasses in an attempt to have a clearer view. Keira turned off the Hooper and went downstairs to check for any clues the woman might have left, but no car. She was going to return to Dune, but a small object caught his attention on the sand and he felt a small hope when he saw that it was Hal's communicator. She wondered how she abandoned something so important in the middle of the desert. She took the communicator from his waist and called the king.

— Yes? — she heard Damas's voice hopefully.

— Keira here. I found her communicator, but no clues. Her car must be somewhere.

— Alright. Just be careful when staying there, you must have seen the city, the looters don't cross which makes it difficult for them to access this area, but that doesn't mean they won't arrive, be quick.

— Okay, I'm leaving — she put the communicator back.

— You shouldn't be here — heard the mysterious voice and turned around, already aiming his gun, coming face to face with a stranger. His face was pale in addition to being painted with red and yellow, his clothes were completely black with some copper details.

— Who are you? — she asked seriously.

— I should be asking you that. I shouldn't be here — replied the stranger, who was unfazed by a gun pointed at his face.

— I'm looking for a…friend. She disappeared 3 days ago and this is her communicator.

— Probably the same signal I got. Apparently it was a trip…

But the person didn't finish speaking as they both heard the sound of cars approaching. The looters had arrived.

— Now is not the time to argue, get in the car!

The person was reluctant to obey Keira's command, who was already climbing the Hooper. However, seeing that she was unprotected against those bloodthirsty people, she ran to Hagai's car and easily climbed into the vehicle. Keira didn't take long to step on the accelerator to enter the sacred lands, she would have enough time to lose them and look for Hal's car, which was certainly somewhere in that immense desert.

As expected, the looters remained at the edge of the area and Keira didn't miss the opportunity to speed up even more to gain time, they crossed the city on the outskirts and left without anyone in sight.

— It looks like we're safe — Keira replied before a huge tremor appeared, she noticed how nervous her companion was about what had happened.

— Speed up…speed up!! — shouted desperately, much to Keira's surprise.

— What…? — She didn't have time to finish the question when he saw the most enormous figure of his entire life. — By the precursors.

Keira turned the steering wheel to the right as much as he could, trying his best not to make the car skid, if looters were bad enough, that monster was three times worse.

— What the hell is this? — Keira screamed desperately, trying to maintain control of the car.

— It's a metal head from the desert! If we don't hurry up, he'll step on us.

“Don’t panic, don’t be, just drive”, thought Hagai focused, pressing the pedal as hard as she could.

—He's getting closer!

It didn't take seconds until the car was thrown by the metal head miles away. Luckily the car landed on its feet, skidding a good few meters before stopping, Keira stopped for a few minutes until her mind stopped spinning repeatedly as a result of the strong blow. He looked to the side, seeing the person still in shock from what happened.

— Are you okay?

— I can't believe I'm alive — murmured, still in a trance.

— We need to defeat that thing — said Keira, starting the vehicle and thinking of some strategy to defeat the monster that was running loose in the immense desert.

— These things shouldn't be here. Something big is coming, I can feel it — said the stranger, closing her eyes and making signs with her hand.

— Can we focus on now? I have a professor to find and a monster to defeat and you're not helping.

She drove, concentrating on the monster that was a few meters ahead, throwing a bomb that at the last moment the leader managed to dodge by turning to the right.

— You won't hit him like that.

— Tell me a better idea, then — replied Keira, at the same moment an idea popped into her head, it was risky, but she had nothing to lose at that moment. Adrenaline was running wild through his blood and, to his surprise, an enormous determination took over his being. — Do you trust me?

— No.

— Great, then hold on. — she stepped on the accelerator, getting even closer to the metal head who was running slowly, but due to his height, a simple step was a great distance.

— Precursors help me! — shouted the stranger.

With difficulty he managed to get practically below the animal, unfortunately the car was too wide, but that didn't stop Keira from throwing a bomb that hit the creature squarely, which staggered due to the blow, but didn't stop it from continuing running and turning towards the car. by Keira. — He's going to kill us!

Hagai shifted gears into reverse and pressed the pedal. — Keep an eye on the monster — he replied, looking back as he drove.

— It's getting closer!

— Shit, shit, shit — she muttered, turning the steering wheel once to the right at the same time as he pulled the rear brake, getting out of the way of the metal head that skidded while trying to catch the vehicle.

— What do we do? Run from it until you run out of gas?

— We need a plan — Keira murmured, shifting into first gear and accelerating to get away from the metal head.

— Going back to Spargus is a plan — replied the other.

— I have a mission and I'm not going back without completing it, I need to find Hal.

— Did you say Hal?! — asked the stranger, seeing that the monster was on top of them. — He's going to kill us!

Keira looked up seeing the monster ready to strike, she was so focused on responding to her companion that she became distracted. She would have died if the metal head hadn't simply stood still with its hands in the air.

— What? — Keira asked, startled by the scream and looked down to see her teacher with her hand on her abdomen.

Hal accumulated a dark echo in his outstretched hand, forming a huge ball that hit the monster's head and fell dead. Keira watched in amazement, in all the time she spent in Spargus she never imagined she would experience a moment like this. He turned off the vehicle and got out of the car as soon as he saw Hal fall to his knees, he ran as fast as he could to help the woman who was lying on the scalding sand.

—Hal! Jesus…Hal! — Keira shouted, kneeling down and checking the wound on her stomach. — What happened? — however, she received no response from her and she fainted.

— Let's take her to the temple, we can heal her there — replied the other, seeing Keira's despair.

With great difficulty, they managed to put her in the car and drove as quickly as possible to the coast, with directions from the stranger, Keira jumped with high suspension through the small islands until she reached the mountain in the middle of the sea, passed through the abyss of the waterfall and braked when saw the huge wall with holes.

— We're here. Let's go down it — they took Hal to the place indicated by Keira's deduction, monk. They entered a huge empty hall and passed through a door with a huge black eye, went down several stairs and entered narrow corridors, Keira had already gotten lost in that place, at one point she saw people exactly like the stranger where there were other people exactly like her , black clothes, white, yellow and red faces. — We need help, Hal is injured.

Dozens of people automatically helped the unconscious woman. Keira watched from afar as everyone took care of Hal and thought about how her father would solve that problem, being a green eco sage, he was a master healer.

— Miss, Seem said we should take you to a room to rest.

Afraid, Hagai waved and followed the stranger to the spare room. As soon as he saw the door close, he didn't think twice before falling onto the bed and completely blacking out.

Chapter Text

She opened her eyes, startled by the knocking on the door, but Keira was still trying to reconcile her mind with everything that was happening, she quickly analyzed the place where she was feeling strange, it was different from the dry air she was used to, she could feel humidity in that place, she wasn’t at home, much less in Spargus. The memories came back like a flash at the same moment the knocks sounded again. Keira calmly got out of bed and opened the door, finding a monk.

— Hal is awake and wants to see you — he said calmly, then walked out into the long hallway. She sighed, closing the door and following the stranger around the place. She was too tired yesterday to remember the route she took, sleep still permeates her mind making it difficult to follow her guide who didn't care if she followed him or not. She yawned lazily, rubbing her eyes trying to stay awake and paying attention to the path, as if she somehow knew the way and was startled when she heard the monk's soft voice saying that they had arrived.

He opened the door, giving Keira enough space to enter the room. As soon as she entered, she could see Hal's figure lying on the double bed. She walked until he had full view of the woman who was breathing calmly, her belly was bandaged without showing any blood stains, which was a positive point considering the state in which he found her in the desert.

— Did Damas send you? — she was startled by Hal's weak voice echoing, looking at the woman's face, she could see that it was difficult for her to open her eyes fully.

— How are you? — asked Keira, sitting on the corner of the bed.

— As far as possible. Then?

— He was worried about you — she informed, making the woman laugh.

— It wasn't wrong, after all. The mission didn't really go as planned.

Silence fell in the room, Hal observed Keira's thoughtful face and was amused by the fear she still had about knowing about her life.

— I know you want to ask about the echo — she replied, seeing Hagai looking embarrassed at having been discovered.

— Are you a wise woman? — Hagai asked.

— Can you help me sit down? — asked Hal, Keira stood up, taking the woman's hand and supporting her still fragile body. — To answer your question, no. I like to call myself a dark echo channeler, even though I delve deeper than I would like into studying such a harmful power.

— How much time? — Keira realized that the question provoked something in Hal, it certainly unlocked something that the woman would like not to remember. — It's okay if you don't wanna...

— No, It’s alright. It was a long time ago, but from what I can remember, Spargus was still a small village, developing slowly.

—So Damas didn't welcome you?

— Damas freed me and I made him king. — It was impossible for Keira not to open her mouth in shock, the story became interesting with every word Hal said. — I was from that place, a monk devoted to the precursors, but something about the dark echo caught my attention, I believed that it being used in the right way could be of great help for our protection, I was warned about the dangers it caused for my companions, but nothing stopped me, contrariwise, the desire to prove them wrong was enormous. Unfortunately, this cost me expulsion, our masters didn't like my attitude, no matter how noble it was. That didn't stop me, I continued studying more and more and managed to improve myself in different aspects, you don't know what the library here hides, however an event made me review whether my entire illusory idea of being a complete wise woman was really necessary.

— What happened?

— I killed a… very important friend to me. He supported me even after everything, he was the one who provided me with library books, he warned me just like the others, but he never left my side. Well, you must know what happened to my fascination; I lost my mind and the echo controlled my emotions and when I realized it, I had killed him. That was like a shock to me, I was sure that if I continued along the path I was following I wouldn't be able to stop, so I stopped.

— I'm sorry — she replied, touched by the story, it was the first time she saw her teacher so vulnerable, the pain in her eyes was visible as she remembered her late friend even though the tears no longer fell.

— Don't be sorry, it's been a long time. Logically, the consequences of this were as great as my achievement.

— Did they come after you? — Keira guessed.

— I fled through the desert until I arrived in Spargus, it was still a poor village led by a humble and good-hearted man who hid me from the monks who were looking for me prepared to give me divine punishment. I lived in hiding for many years until the leader who welcomed me died and so on.

— How long did that last?

— I don't know...about 100 years maybe?

— How?

— The dark echo has it’s qualities, I became practically immortal with my constant use, in fact most echoes provide this. You said your father was a green echo sage, he must be as old as me.

— I don't know how old my father is — Keira confided. —Anyway, what happened next?

— Well, with my help and knowledge in others eco Spargus had developed and practically become what you know today. I was trained by the leaders who followed, giving me the skill I have today, until one leader didn't behave with the others.

— Who?

— Cairus, I didn't like him, something told me that it wasn't right to give him a city as prosperous as Spargus, but I had no say even though I was close to all the kings. He found out about me and forced me to use the black echo for my own good, which I didn't accept. Cairus locked me in an underground prison only for dangerous people and well… I was considered one. I was tortured by him, starved, cold and anything you can imagine. Then Damas arrived. He was an outsider from Heaven, like you, and became one of the guards who watched in my cell, I could see the excellent man he was and the greatness he carried, Cairus saw this too so he humiliated him as much as anyone, he was too severe... a dictator who humiliated anyone who opposed his command, the only difference between me and the rest of the population was that I was in a cell.

— Is that why other guards didn't approach you? Out of fear?

— Some yes, others not. Many hated me and feared my power, believing in Cairus's words, others still remembered me and wanted to get closer, but they couldn't. Damas was someone completely new there and he was smart enough to draw his conclusions with his own eyes. So we planned a coup d'état, he believed in me and freed me and I helped him make Spargus what it is today. It's not talked about much, but there are still people who hate me in that place because of their ancestors. Damas offered me a position at his side, but I declined. So we maintain this facade as if I were some subordinate.

— Why did you decide that? — Keira asked, still trying to assimilate everything. Hagai couldn't deny that the bond between Damas and Hal was stronger than it seemed, now she understood why the king gave in to her request to extend the term of her fight and all the little perks, she was the protégé of one of the founders of Spargus .

— I'm not a leader, Keira. My life isn’t sitting on a throne or in meetings where people believe in my abilities. I have already disappointed too many people in my short life. Damas no, he was born to be a king, even more so after knowing what he was doing in Heaven.

— What was he doing? — Keira asked, even more eager to know something about the king.

— That's not my right to say, I'm sorry.

— It’s okay. So that's why you do the most dangerous missions? Because of your dark power?

— As a former monk. I have a certain understanding of the stories told by the precursors, my role became to help protect the temple and prevent evil forces from reaching the city. It's a way to redeem myself for what I did years ago too.

— The monks seem to like you.

— None of them came from the same time as mine, of course they have an aversion to my old life as a monk for a hunter and channeler of dark echo, but I use small reserves of echo light to control this power in me. Anyway, I am useful to them so they tolerate me.

— I would never have imagined that…

— Did you make assumptions about my life? — Hal asked, amused.

— There would be no reason to deny it, you are Hal: the indomitable warrior.

— Actually, that's not my name.

— Now my life has become a lie — Keira replied shocked, causing a sincere laugh from the woman. It was incredible how she managed to be a little of what she was before all the chaos alongside Hagai.

— I don't like using my real name, only Damas knows because I changed it as soon as he took the throne. If I used my name, which was spoken by Cairus, my adaptation would be more difficult.

— It's a good reason... Are you going to tell me? — Keira asked hopefully, but was discouraged as soon as she saw Hal shake his head.

— All I need now is to rest before we can leave. Now get out of my room Hagai.

— Yes ma'am — she replied quietly, seeing Hal quickly fall asleep, she tried too hard trying to stay awake to tell the whole story.

Keira closed the door and walked through the silent corridors, the only sound in the room being her slow steps through the unknown maze. A new vision opened up to her with Hal's life, or whatever her name is, seeing his other side made her a completely different person than she thought the first time she saw him, more human than a woman cold and raw. She imagined what Damas was hiding too, whatever his secret must be as interesting as Hal's since he came from Heaven.

She remained so absorbed in thoughts that she didn't notice where she had arrived, she raised her head and stopped in the same place, admiring the huge precursor statue on display, it was so big and powerful, Keira felt in her goosebumps how imposing a simple image of what would be the precursors could be. As soon as she recovered from the trance, Keira walked calmly to the small altar under the statue, feeling the desire to see it better.

— Incredible — she whispered, analyzing the perfect work.

— Gran guerrera — Hagai took large steps back when he heard the imposing voice above him, the statue now had its eyes open like two huge diamonds, it was a blue as bright as a sky on its clearest day. — Your journey has just begun, be prepared to guide the hero in the coming war.

— What do you mean?

— Be resilient in your decisions and you will bring us Mar's chosen one to fulfill your purpose — he replied before closing his eyes again.

Keira continued looking astonished at what she had just heard, she returned the same way, nervous about what had happened, but keeping each syllable very well in her mind, believing that she would understand what the wise man had said.