There were no words. Nothing could be said that could make the moment better. His back was to us as he knelt on the ground, blood on his hands. I couldn't help but wonder if the smell made him hungry. I couldn't help but wonder what the hell just happened. I couldn't help but wonder why there were so many thoughts racing through my head. I was losing focus. It wasn't like me at all.

The princess's form or soul or whatever it was spoke out. She wants us to help him. Of course she would say that. She would reach out to the two who had their heads screwed on just right because the magician had lost his long ago. This was the proof I needed for something I had believed from almost day one. What the hell did he do?

The kid was tired and in pain. No doubt the battle did a number on his small frame. The blonde was ready to pass out. His silent tears were loud enough for all of us to hear. There were so many that he cried for all of us because we could not. Warriors never cry, not until they lose someone important. Even then, after many years of loss and heartache, you learn to stop crying. I know I had. The kid, in time, would learn that lesson too. I had no doubt about it.

So I was left to clean up the mess. I was left to pick up the pieces and put him back together. The kid could handle himself. We all could see the magician couldn't. He needed us more than ever and we weren't going to listen to his pitiful pleas. He would push us away and tell us that he didn't need us. He couldn't be more wrong. He needs us more than ever. He needs me more than anything.

The one he trusted most, he had killed. He needs to face the truth and see the world for what it really is. That smile…it faded long ago. I almost miss it. There are times when I miss who he pretended to be. Maybe now we could meet the real him. Learn his secrets and who he was before meeting us. If I didn't know better already, I'd have said that this event was significant. This was bound to happen to us. Now I sound like that witch. She has made her point. I understand a whole lot more now. I just wish I can wipe that smug grin off her face.