Ilustración: Hybrid-Kira (2020)

- A... Are you sure you want to do this? - Iker asks, with clear nervousness in his voice-

- Sure, what could possibly go wrong? -

- The Warriors are pretty tough guys, and they don't like visitors a lot... I don't know Ty, I think we should wait for a day when Kassia is not so busy and she takes you to the Warriors' den, she could protect you better.-

- Iker we already talked about this, I'll be fine, I'm with you. –My comment makes him snort audibly, I didn't know if it was due to my stubbornness or my blind trust towards him- Besides, it's not like my life is at risk. It's illegal for a hybrid to harm a human within Cilt's limits, right? -

- Are you kidding me? No one would be so stupid to even touch you, not even the Warriors! Darius would tear off the head of anyone who dared to hurt you, after Kassia skinned them, and Zenda and the rest of the Warriors gave them the beating of their lives ... - Iker realizes that his explanation was starting to be a bit overwhelming- ... Ehh, in less words, you're practically untouchable here in Cilt.

- You see? There is nothing to fear about then. If I have for now the privilege that the Leaders take care of my back ... Then why not use it to our advantage? - He was still not completely convinced, but in the end my pleas seem to have effect on him- Come on Iker, we must use the fact that people here still see me as "Marcus's son" only. -

- Okay then ... I think you're right, maybe I'm overthinking about it. Also, it is my duty as your guide to teach you about all ranks, so I just hope the other Warriors are in the mood for visits. Heh, although when it comes to you, I think even that brute of Ankor would be happy to see you.-

It was a long night for both of us.

I wasn't able to fall asleep for the most part of the night, and Iker would wake up in the middle of horrible nightmares, reliving that terrible day over and over again. He repeated his name on his dreams, holding on to him, fearing to lose him again. –Aaron–

It was clear that, despite the fact that we both were in peace with eachother, it was necessary for me to reaffirm dozens of times that what had happened yesterday had not affected me, and even with that, I could still distinguish a bit of remorse in his voice. It was a matter of time before he felt comfortable in my presence again. Until then, I would try to act as normal as possible, no matter how difficult it was for me.

Even his attitude towards me had changed a bit, he became nervous, and slightly paranoid towards whatever his instincts told him could be dangerous to me. He even wanted to apologize for the branch I had stumbled upon when leaving the underground rooms, even if it wasn't his fault at all. The harsh memories in his head had temporarily affected his behavior, as if an episode of post-traumatic stress had been triggered in him again, which would be understandable. My mind cannot imagine how painful and difficult it has been for him to have to live with this burden for years.

But today seemed to be a different day, a new beginning for both of us.

At the early morning today, acepting the fact that I would not sleep, I took a hot shower for the first time in the three days I have been at Cilt. I wasn't sure how the water system worked in this place if the room didn't even have a water heater, but I was really grateful for it, as I once burned my eyebrows when I first turned on a water heater on my own. While taking time to clean myself, I noticed that the wound on my hand, as well as the incision in it from the chip that had been implanted, had completely healed. It would be an amazing thing if I didn't know that Cilt has a healthcare system almost as advanced as at the heart of the E.M. I dressed in a new set of clothes, and dozed for a couple of hours until Iker woke up on his own, at least this time he hadn't been woken up by a nightmare, so that was good to help him start his day.

Soon we were on our way to the Warriors' den, which was almost as far from the center of Cilt as the Hunters village, but in the opposite direction. This was at the southern end of the city, this being the only area that was not surrounded by mountains that could make a safe natural perimeter between Cilt territory and neutral lands. Instead, the southern border was delimited by a sturdy high wall of concrete and stone that was difficult to see from afar due to the peculiar dense forest of that area.

Iker didn't want to be late, so he offered me to take a ride on his cabin. During the stroll he took the opportunity to give me a quick guide on how to properly accommodate inside a hybrid, and thus avoid injury for either of us. The key was to sit right in the middle of the hybrid's body, being careful not to crush its ribs with your legs, and to be especially careful with the pointed vertebrae that crown its spine, as movement can cause injury to the human passenger. Hybrid Hunters, having to interact so much with humans, are often given a type of mount that attaches to the interior to make the ride more comfortable for both of them, but Iker, being a Warrior, had not needed to interact much with humans since his return to Cilt, although upon my arrival Iker began to consider getting one someday, it was more than likely that he could get a used but good mount in the barter market in exchange for some rare and valuable items that he has found during his missions beyond neutral zones.

My confidence in the forest began to improve every day, I knew very well that I could not be naive and lower my guard, but my nerves were calmer as I began to recognize which were the usual noises of the forest, and which were not. I knew that as long as I was within the borders of Cilt it would be difficult for something bad to happen to me... or at least, I like to think so to calm my nerves.

It was a muggy day, yesterday's rain was finishing evaporating, and there was hardly any fresh wind. It was amazing how the weather can change so drastically from one day to the next in summer. It was so hot that the hoodie I had on top of me was starting to be uncomfortable, leaving me no choice but to tie it around my waist in case I needed it later. The dry floor raised dirt, and made Iker cough from time to time.

- Ugh, damn dust.- Iker clears his throat as he resumed the walk at a brisk pace-

- You should use a mask and something that covers your eyes, it seems that a drought will come after the summer rains. It won't be good for you to stop to sneeze if you're hunting Vortex out there Iker.-

- You speak too fast rookie, of course I have equipment, that is why I am wearing my... - Iker stops short, making me fall directly on his spine when not being able to predict said braking- Fuck! I forgot my helmet again! - Iker groans audibly in frustration, and sticks his nose to a rough tree and begins to scrub it in a rough way- Today we had training with heavy armor and I forgot my helmet at the repair station, heh, this is great, Zenda is going to kill me, for the second time this month.-

- Hey Iker, calm down, stop doing that.- When I saw that he did not react to my words, I came down from his cabin raising his door with all my strength, and once I am outside, I try to make him separate from the tree, because I was afraid he would hurt himself- It's enough.- I pushed him gently to separate his nose from the rough and hard bark of the tree, Iker had managed to make a few scratches on the tip of his nose, which was already full of little scars- Do you see what you cause to yourself? You are not going to solve anything by hurting yourself like that.- I remove the small bloody pieces of wood that had been embedded in his fresh wounds- ... don't worry, I'm sure nothing will happento you, even if you have already forgotten once.-

- I'm an idiot... How could I forget it again?! - He kept talking to himself, it seemed something usual in him when frustration invaded him- That's why Zenda no longer gives me permission to go to Zeingen, she already has me under the spotlight ... What if this is the last time she's going to allow a fault of mine? The ex Vortex only have one chance ... no, I don't want to live in the neutral lands again ... -

- Iker! - I get his attention in the only way I could to prevent him from creating more imaginary scenarios in his mind- They will not exile you from Cilt because you forgot your helmet for today's training! I don't even know anything about this place, but I'm more than sure that it won't happen.- Iker remains attentive and finally silent, looking somewhat puzzled that I have raised my voice in that way-... you're not like this Iker... What is happening? -

- I ... I don't know.- He directs his reflective gaze to the ground, he was just as confused as me.- I honestly don't know, I think maybe I'm too ... sensitive yet ... -Iker sighs heavily, knowing that he couldn't evading the subject forever- ... You know, you're the only one who didn't run away after knowing what I did, which led me into exile ... I find it hard to believe that you continue to trust me even knowing who I really am. -

Iker's melancholic and sincere words make me feel a tight knot in my stomach. He kept seeing me as the only person who didn't consider him a monster. And that made me feel guilty, because I came to question my trust in him, several times, during that endless and sleepless night. He needed my full support, and I was not being fair to him. Now it was my duty to pay for that sincerity with whatever he needed.

- I... just do what you would have done for me. You had the confidence to tell me ... this is the least I can do for my friend.-

For a few more moments Iker kept his gaze down, but then he looked me in the eye again, as if his gaze thanked me without the need of a word. His conflicting mind had finally had a resting place in my words.

An external noise interrupts the moment, causing Iker and I to turn startled towards the source of the sound. A hybrid with a familiar face was spying on us a few meters away, it was incredible that we had not noticed his presence before.

- Oops, I'm sorry, am I interrupting something, couple of lovebirds? - Ankor speaks in an intrusive way, it was the same Maseratti with mint skin and neglected appearance that we had met last afternoon, before this same hybrid made Iker's blood to boil and make him furious, getting an unpleasant bite on the nose for that, which looked in better condition now- Kids, I remind you that it is imprudent to have intimate encounters in places of common use, if you wanted to do it you better would have stayed In your bedroom.-

- What do you want? - Ankor was willing to drive him crazy again, but Iker answered him in a more serious and controlled tone than yesterday, he really did not want to create another scene, much less cause collateral damage-

- Whoah! Finally the sweetheart Iker has the balls to answer someone out loud.- Ankor laughs in an unpleasant way, showing his metal teeth in replacement of some of his original teeth, and releasing a horrible stench from his mouth- Anyways ... Zenda sent me to look for you, she is furious that you are late again, let's go now, I can't wait to see the beating she will put on you.-

Ankor turns and continues on his way to the den, and it is not until there was already a considerable distance between us and him that I realize that Iker had gotten into a defensive position, with his doors slightly open and parting his body off the floor, leaning on its sturdy wheels, although little by little he began to lower his guard until it resumed its original position.

The encounter with Ankor had frozen my blood, if it had been a Vortex I didn't know what would have happened to Iker and me. My slight confidence in the woods had now grown weak again, and my body was starting to shake a little from the anxiety it generated in me.

- Don't worry, this is normal.- Iker says with confidence, apparently the little encounter with Ankor had been an effective switch for his agitated mind. His protective instinct had returned, and with it the need to try to calm me down- I told you that Warriors are kinda difficult, this happens all the time. But don't be scared, whatever happens there I'll be fine, okay? -

- Y-yeah, it's okay ... I trust you.- Sure I trusted him, but my survival instinct was screaming for me to run back to the center of Cilt, seek refuge with Kassia, and spend the day in her company, away from all those Warriors that now looked more frightening than ever in my mind- ... Just don't forget to defend yourself, remember that I can take care of myself.-

- Ha! You can be sure about that, the Warriors are the only hybrids that I can defend myself from freely, and show some teeth without fear of punishment... but to be honest, there are only a handful of them that I would really like to sink my teeth into.- He says that in a lower voice, clearly referring to Ankor, who seemed not to give much attention to us despite the fact that it was evident that he had heard us talk about him-

I sit up inside him again, taking the same position that Iker had recommended, sitting on the back of his spine. Iker could look serene on the outside, but I could feel his heart pounding, even harder than when his pace was much faster. It was obvious that he was just as nervous as I was, but he tried his best not to show it. But nothing I could do can help him now, because we were already in territory ruled by Warriors of Cilt. An area that few dare to venture to, and I was about to find out why.

The terrain began to rise as we advanced towards our destination, a sinuous slope carved into one of the most vertical faces of the mountain was our way forward, which was only wide enough for a hybrid slightly larger than Iker to pass without problem. The center of Cilt was visible from this perspective, that was the only thing that helped me not to focus too much on the ravine at our side.

Both Iker and Ankor are silent during the walk, it was not something new to me, not since the day Adara took me to the Hunters' village and suggested that I do the same. We could be within the bounds of Cilt, but that didn't exempt us from unwanted encounters with rogue hybrids, poachers, or worse, Vortex.

We took one last turn over the hillside, and now I could clearly say that this place was possibly the meeting place of the Warriors, or at least the group to which Ankor and Iker belonged. The majestic entrance of a natural cave appears in front of us, decorated with emblems representing the Warriors of Cilt.

The ceiling of the cave had collapsed long time ago, long enough for the trees to make their magic and create a new green roof with their own branches, intertwined with each other, creating a comfortable and cool shade, yet allowing the light from the sun to seep through its leaves, illuminating the interior of the gigantic cave.

There was already activity inside the cave, there were few Warriors inside it but they all seemed to be attentive, contemplating in silence and respect the demonstration that was taking place; A Ferrari 458 hybrid with shiny and scarified black skin and blue eyes, trying to take down a young human with light brown hair while he dodged with agility and technique the attacks of the fierce hybrid Warrior.

- ... You always have to look the Vortex in the eye, let its pupils reveal the place where it will try to attack you next... - The hybrid exhibits an attack position towards the young man, with doors half open, and showing her teeth aggressively, all after having warned him sneakily her next attack with her eyes. She takes a sudden leap forward taking him by surprise, shortening the distance between her and the young man, and allowing her to deliver the final blow that would end the fight, the hybrid reaches the boy's stomach with her nose and manages to throw him a couple of meters above the floor, which almost lost all the grass due to the constant passage of both. The young man falls onto his back in a thud, and before he can reestablish himself, the hybrid puts the full weight of her skull on the young man's ribs, which rose and fell from the agitation of combat. She kept a menacing expression for a few more seconds, breaths deeply and takes a little moment until her pupils return to their normal size, indicating that the critical moment of tension in the combat has already ended.-... You can consider yourself dead. I need you to practice more, not just with me and your comrades, any hybrid will be more than willing to teach a newbie like you a lesson. Understood, Evan? -

- Ow... Ouch... Got it, Zenda.- Evan gets up quickly from the ground, rubbing the section of his back on which he had landed-

- Sergeant, Leader, Chief if you want, call me any of those before calling me by my name, simply calling me "Zenda" is too informal for a newbie like you. You have a lot to learn before you aspire to change your allegiance to the Warriors, especially coming from that girl scout camp of the Hunters. -Her sarcastic and slightly cocky tone made her look confident of herself, she shakes her doors to remove the dust she had raised during the demonstration, and rearranges them perfectly aligned at her sides, while she directed her monologue to the rest of the Warriors- The Hunters think they are better than us just because they don't have to do the dirty work, but they are so mediocre that they wouldn't survive without their weapons for a single night ... that's why I train you all, is that clear? -

- Yes my leader! - The rest of the Warriors shout in unison, with the impeccable martiality of a military squad-

- Good, you better make me proud someday.- Her moment of glory is momentarily interrupted by our arrival. The hybrid could be small in size but that was not a problem for her, because her presence was just as intimidating as seeing Darius face to face.- Wow Iker, I was beginning to fear that a certain hybrid Camaro had turned you into his breakfast.- The comment causes some laughter among the Warriors, who began to congregate around us, with mocking looks and threatening war paintings- You are late, as usual, and without your helmet. What is your excuse now? -

- ... None, leader Zenda. There are no excuses for being late for training. -Iker replies respectfully towards his coach, hoping for the best-

- Correct, and what punishment you gain for being late and without the equipment that I asked for? -

- ... A battle with you, my leader.

- A battle against me, Iker. And I remind you that I am here for a reason, very few have managed to defeat me, among them my own son, but that is no surprise, I taught him everything he knows.- The Warriors, expectantly, laugh subtly as they take their place around the arena, preparing to see again another clear victory from their leader- Come on, hurry up, it's up to you to finish the training earlier and that your colleagues can attend the Zeingen.- Zenda turns her back on Iker to take position at the other end of the arena-

- Okay, just give me a few moments to be ready... - Iker opens his door to let me out, because it was obvious he would not let me take damage in the fight- ... I think you better come down Ty ... -

- Ehh ... i-it is not necessary to fight.- I leave Iker's interior before he asked me, treading insecurely on the floor of the improvised battle arena of the Warriors, who looked confused when they saw me, their menacing gestures had softened, and even the rookie who a few minutes ago had been defeated by Zenda, Evan, was muttering my name with excitement, which was a bit weird for me to see- It was my fault that Iker was late for his training, He told me that we would leave early and ... well, I fell asleep.- I was determined to try whatever it took to prevent Iker from getting another beating, even if it meant making up an excuse to expose myself to the Warriors-

- T-Ty, what are you doing?- Iker says clenching his teeth, clearly nervous about what might happen-

Zenda, the tough Warrior coach, looked at me with interest, and with a look that I could only describe as maternal, something that contrasted with her rough personality and intimidating appearance despite being possibly the smallest adult hybrid I have ever seen. She stares at my face with her deep blue eyes, as if it were a familiar face.

- ... you're Tyler Hopper, right? - She asks with the greatest delicacy that her strong voice allowed her-

- Yes that's me. I am Marcus's son.- I answer clearly, although I was not sure if I had to formally address her like the rest of the Warriors, so I limit myself to simply answering her questions-

A delicate smile is drawn on her face full of deep battle scars. At that moment I couldn't see Iker's face, but knowing him, he must have been the most confused of all to see the abrupt change in Zenda's attitude when she saw me and recognized me.

- It's nice to meet you Tyler, you really honor us with your presence here. The council had informed me that Iker was your hybrid guide but... I never believed that she would take the risk bringing you to this place... - Zenda gives Iker a stern look, making him instinctively stick his body to the ground, showing submission-

- Actually it was my idea, I asked him to show me the base of the Warriors. I wanted to know more about the work that Iker and all of you do here to protect Cilt, I really admire your work, and I hope I'm not interrupting your activities with uhm... my presence.-

Zenda is thoughtful for a few moments, she was not quite sure she wanted to show me the brutality of the Warriors training the first day I came to visit. But something else in her mind kept her restless, she looks back at Iker, this time seeing him in a somewhat more empathic way than before, although without neglecting her authoritarian stance.

- ... He knows it already?-

- Yes, he knows everything. We talked about that yesterday.- Iker responds calmly. It was clear that both were referring to what happened with Iker, to his past as a former Vortex. Zenda nods silently-

- Alright... well, then I don't think there is a problem with you joining us, Tyler. Iker is lucky to have you on his side... I think that for now I will forgive him the punishment, just because you were the one who made him arrive late, and unfortunately I am not allowed to teach a newbie like you a lesson.- Zenda subtly winks, It seemed that she was only joking, which fills Iker with relief and lets him adopt a much more relaxed position, since everything had turned out much better than either of us had imagined-

Once the atmosphere had finally relaxed, the Warriors who at the first time gave the impression of being dangerous people were now simply ordinary citizens who had not had the opportunity to meet me until now, and I was starting to get used to it. People gathered around me, I start with the same social ritual as when I had just arrived at Cilt. People and hybrids alike, several of them wearing sturdy metal and carbon fiber armor, and others displaying beautiful designs of body paint, which I had no idea why they were using it, but at this point it is better to watch and wait for the answers, because Cilt is completely a world apart and there is no point in questioning absolutely everything.

- Hi Tyler, my name is Evan! Y-You can call me Evan! - The young Warrior makes his way through the group that was already around me and almost steals my hand to shake it energetically, the boy seemed to be barely old enough to belong to the Warriors- Uhh... I-I'm sorry, that sounded stupid hehe, I'm sorry you had to see how Zenda sent me to fly, usually that doesn't happen, I'm a very agile Hunter and I'm here to improve my combat technique, you see? - Evan turns around and shows me his Hunter rank tattooed just below his neck-

- Oh hello Evan, it's a pleasure to meet you, hehe ... - I smile kindly towards him as Evan continued to gaze at me with fascination, until another Warrior covers Evan's face with one hand and pushes him aside in the more gentle way that a guy like him could do it-

- Evan! You should not show off your ranks in front of Tyler, don't you know he's someone important? - That Warrior was a young man, although clearly older than me, with marked musculature decorated with tattoos unrelated to Cilt's ranks, and with a prosthesis instead of his left leg- I apologize for his behavior, Evan is still a big kid.- The burly Warrior combs his short black hair again, then shakes his hand with mine, his grip was much stronger than that of young Evan- Welcome to the den, my name is Maverick, I am next in command after our honorable Sub-Leader Zenda ... Although we only call her leader, I recommend that you do not say "sub", she does not like to feel second in command.-

Maverick mutters so the conversation would not be heard hy Zenda, but she was chatting with Iker several meters from where we were. I couldn't hear what they were both talking about, but it seemed to be serious. The only thing that came to me at the time was that Zenda was scolding him for having brought me here without first telling her... or she would have simply asked him again why he had forgotten his helmet (again). In any case, she realizes that I was watching them, turns sneakily around and decides to end the talk, nodding towards Iker to let him join us.

Iker seemed like he was in his ideal environment, he moves with much more naturalness and confidence than in the village of the Hunters, he even smiles widely as only he knows how to do.

- Look who deigned to return home, you already had us worried Iker, the rumors spread fast in Cilt and you know it.- Maverick greets him as well as the rest of the Warriors, at the same time he passes through the middle of the group until taking place by my side-

- Then I imagine you must have heard how Saemus made a fool of himself in front of everyone, seriously, believe me when I tell you it was pathetic. He could have defeated me but that's the least of it, the idiot wanted to attack Tyler and I just defended him, right Ty?-

- Uhh... well, he didn't really attack me... not at that moment at least.- The question takes me by surprise, because I did not think that such an event was a cause for conversation between them, but judging by the way the Warriors reacted with rejection of the attitude that Saemus had that day, it made me think that it seems that an accident of this type was not so common, not like the constant fights that hybrids have between them. Apparently a conflict between a hybrid and a human was serious-

- My buddy Tyler is being very modest... the truth is that Saemus behaved like a demented, we were lucky that Kassia was near to stop him, before something serious happened... -

- I wonder if the Leaders will take him to judgement, or at least for an evaluation, it is never good for an unstable hybrid to be close to humans, terrible things can happen.- Maverick says while analyzing the situation-

- Yes... I know it very well.- Maverick's comment unintentionally makes Iker uncomfortable, silencing him for a moment before a hybrid Warrior decided to speak up this time-

- Well... it's too strange that Saemus got angry like that, he is known to be very tolerant and patient with humans, so much so that he decided to train children. What did you do to make him so angry, Tyler? -

- Uhhh... - The whole group looked at me curiously, and I was deeply ashamed to tell them in detail what had happened because of the fear of the resulting mockery. I knew that playing with Adara that way had been stupid, and I didn't know at what level would that justify Saemus wanting to teach me a lesson, so I choose to tell a shorter version, but at the same time not say lies- Well... what happened was that Saemus introduced me to his squad of children, and they began to ask me questions while Adara had stayed close to me to take care of the little ones, and simply Adara and I began to entertain the children, talking about how she had brought me Cilt and... well, out of nowhere Saemus came back, and I think he didn't like that Adara and I were having a good time... I don't know... -

- Ppff, are you serious? Was he angry just because you and Adara get along? - She along with the rest of the Warriors begin to laugh, just like Iker and I concealed a somewhat nervous laugh, because we both knew very well what had happened- It can't be truth, Saemus, the "helicopter killer", is jealous of you? I mean... you're not bad at all, but I can't believe he feels so vulnerable, with you next to his girl.-

- And what did you expect? Saemus is one of those degenerates who prefer to have a partner of the opposite species.- Ankor intrudes into the conversation- These guys are unstable and frustrated, always in need of attention and ... - Ankor is abruptly silenced by Maverick as he covered Evan's ears with his hands, who was distracted by something else-

- Hey! We have a minor among us, be careful with what you say, can you? - Ankor seems to get fed up with the talk and decides to leave the place, taking a lookout position like Zenda, who listened to our conversation from a distance- ... mixed couples are not "degenerates", hybrids and humans we are more alike than people outside of Cilt believe.-

- ... Maverick... my head hurts.- Evan taps the hands that covered his ears, apparently Maverick was applying more force than necessary-

- Oh, I'm sorry Evan.- Maverick finally frees his comrade, while he seems to feel comfortable next to his more experienced Warrior friend.- But... heh, I'm not going to deny that being away from Cilt for so long has affected a bit, you know... it's summer after all.-

- Why? What happens in summer? You're talking about the Zeingen right? That's why Captain Saemus is frustrated and why he is being rude to Tyler, right Maverick? - Evan asks innocently, causing the rest of the Warriors to give a little and uncomfortable chuckle -

- ... Yes Evan, it is because of the Zeingen, he is frustrated because he has not been able to participate.- Maverick answers him, also trying to keep his laugh for the good of all, at the same time that he patted the novice Warrior's head-

That particular word, "Zeingen," I had been hearing it from the moment I came to Cilt, but at no point did I stop to think about what it really meant. It could be anything, a word invented by them to describe an event or a ritual, or something similar, and I was willing to ask to integrate myself into their traditions.

- I'm sorry but... Can someone explain to me what is that about Zein ... Zeingen? The truth is that I have heard it many times and I don't know what it is.- I ask cautiously, making the discord of the Warriors focus again on Iker-

- Haven't you taken Tyler to see even a single battle, Iker?! - Another Warrior among the group raises his voice, calling Zenda's attention from her lookout post-

- And when could I have taken him? He just arrived Cilt a few days ago! In addition, I am not allowed to go and I do not plan to let him go alone, it is too dangerous, the crowd could crush him or something worse.- Iker responds, committed to my protection despite the insistence of his comrades-

- Are you serious? And letting he miss one of the biggest events in all of Cilt? Tyler, come with us, come on, you're going to have a lot of fun, and we promise we will take good care of you, No one messes with us! -

- I... I don't know, I don't think I should separate from Iker and uh... - The insistence of the Warriors made me doubt and made me nervous, they hadn't even answered my question and they wanted to take me with them. But luckily, the pious soul of Zenda is present again among us-

- Do not suffocate the boy, he is too pure to hang out with vermin like you, and too friendly to refuse your offer.- Everyone makes space for Zenda as she approaches me calmly- You see, Tyler, here in Cilt are various events and festivities throughout the year, and one of everyone's favorites is the famous summer "Zeingen". Zeingen is a battle tournament, in which... unfortunately it is forbidden to make your opponent bleed, but in which you can challenge any citizen of Cilt to a friendly fight. Some do it for fame or to attract attention, others for fun... but a few do it to win the tournament. In the end, the humans and hybrids who have accumulated the most victories in Zeingen will be named champions, and a banquet will be held in their honor, the glorious "Feast of Champions." - Zenda explains and recounts with pride in her voice, reliving memories in her head-

- So it's a battle tournament, now everything makes sense. And you participate in the Zeingen too? I am sure few would dare to challenge your strength.-

- Oh, Tyler, it is not necessary that you praise me, I no longer participate in Zeingen for several years, honestly, it is very difficult to find worthy rivals, and that these at the same time are willing to pass the ridicule of being defeated by me in front of a crowd.- Zenda looked pleased by the comment I had made, but at the same time I noticed resignation in her gesture, it seems that she was not joking when she said that there were no opponents worthy of her. Was she tired of winning everytime?-

- Come on Zenda! Do it for the old days, Tyler isn't the only one who hasn't seen you fight at the Zeingen ever, many of the new recruits haven't had the privileged opportunity to see you fight. It would be a great honor, for everyone.- Maverick tries to encourage his leader to be part of the event again this year, and it seemed that he was not the only one excited at the idea of ​​seeing the reckless hybrid Warrior dominating the arena of the Zeingen once more-

- Yes, of course, and tell me, who should I challenge? The only hybrids that could entertain me for a few minutes are patrolling the borders of Cilt right now, if they are not here, then who? -

Maverick is silent, but he was not short of words to get the message to Zenda, it seemed as if the two were speaking in a silent secret language simply with their looks. Zenda stands thoughtful, staring into his eyes for a while, weighing her options, until something seems to make her succumb, showing a subtle, mocking smile on her deeply scarred face.

- Seriously? Him? - Maverick nods discreetly, making Zenda snort- ... You know that he also quit participating in the Zeingen for the same reasons as me, right? What makes you think that he's not going to reject the challenge this time? - Zenda verbally challenges Maverick, hoping that he would give her some argument that would finish convincing her completely-

- I don't know, maybe... he would make an exception if he realize that we have a special guest with us.- It wasn't necessary to think too much to know who Maverick was referring to by the "special guest" -

Zenda remains silent for a few moments, causing tension and uncertainty in the place, we all remain expectant of the final decision she could make, because on her depends entirely whether the Warriors are allowed to approach the central area of ​​Cilt or not. She turns her back to us, directing her gaze towards the center of Cilt, which was visible from the great height at which the den was located.

- ... Change of plans Warriors. Today's lesson will only be for observation.- Everyone is silent, not knowing if Maverick had really achieved his goal- ... To the Zeingen! -

- To the Zeingen! - The Warriors shout excitedly, the humans rush inside their hybrid comrades, and they all start frantically heading back to the center of Cilt, running after their leader Zenda, who wasted no time and led the race -

- Are you serious?! Are we really going to the Zeingen? - I do the same as the others, and I take a seat inside Iker, hurrying so as not to be the last to leave the place-

- Oh yes, we will go to the Zeingen! You will finally see what a true Cilt Warrior is made of! Hold on tight, Ty, it will be a very troubled trip! - Iker closes his doors again, and this time before starting to run, he raises his body for a moment on his rear wheels, at the same time he lets out a powerful roar, thing that several of his companions do as well, and the race begins towards the legendary arena of the Zeingen-

It would take a lot of time and practice before I could get used to being transported by a hybrid, and even more if it decided to run at full speed the whole way. Iker, along with all the hybrid Warriors, carry one or more humans inside them, and the most daring manage to mount on top of their hybrid companions without the help of the sophisticated harnesses that the Hunters must use. The spectacle of the Warriors showing off their courage and ferocity as they crossed the deteriorated slope we were descending without even hesitating for a second, was without a doubt something worth experiencing at least once in a lifetime. I could hear their euphoric screams, and the roar of the hybrids as they quickened their pace, making sure that everyone in the vicinity knew of our presence. This was very different from the silent walk that Iker and I completed less than an hour ago to reach the meeting place of the Warriors, now the stealth did nothing but interfere, they were willing to show their power, even if they had to show off of it, causing terror in its wake.

Until this moment I had kept hugging Iker's body inside, not knowing how to counteract his constant movement, but little by little I gain the necessary balance to simply stay seated. Iker had retracted both of his windows, which gave me a unique opportunity to use the doorframe as a support, avoiding the arrowhead that he had already hurt me with once. The grip gives me enough confidence to move closer to his left door, moving my body to that side. The adrenaline of the moment makes me get even closer, until I finally manage to lift my head a little, feeling the heavy air on my face, making me close my eyes due to the force with which it pushed my head back. I can't help but draw a big smile, one like I've rarely experienced. I felt free. I stick my head a little more until I can see the Warriors that followed us behind us, they looked excited and I could feel it as well, so much that I can't resist the urge to shout with them, which seemed to encourage them even more, including Iker who roared with energy along with me.

Soon we had reached the most densely populated area of ​​Cilt, the entire group of Warriors slowed down a bit as it was a relatively busy place, but there was always a path completely reserved for hybrids who had to move fast, a path that the reckless Warriors claimed in the moment they set foot on the asphalt. I hadn't realized when I had been able to get almost half my body out of Iker's window, almost only holding on to his door frame with one hand and his back with the other, this position was honestly more comfortable for me, as it allowed me to have better control of the swing and it gave me a privileged view, and it seemed that Iker was not uncomfortable. Finally we slowed down, it seemed that there was still a little left to reach the Zeingen arena, but it was necessary to go more slowly, at this speed the rest of the citizens who looked at us with curiosity were able to ask us what was happening, it seemed that It was rare for so many Cilt Warriors to come down from their hiding in such a rush.

- Go to Zeingen right now, Zenda will challenge someone today, you can't miss it! - The Warriors couple that was in front of us answers to curious people, and these at the same time spread the word to the most hybrids and humans they are capable of, spreading the news like a flame consuming a dry grassland-

Soon, a crowd began to gather around us, while keeping a safe distance so that we could continue to advance unobstructed. People called my name from a distance and greeted me, as usual, and they also greeted Zenda who was still at the head of the formation. It was not necessary for any other Warrior to open the way for Zenda, because with her mere presence it was enough for everyone who was in front of her to give her space. Not out of fear, not because Zenda was so rude as to push them out of their way, but out of genuine respect and admiration. It was clear that I did not know one hundred percent how important this hybrid was to the Cilt population. But I was excited to be able to find out why in a few moments.

In front of us was a field cleared of trees, almost as wide as the clearing in which the Hunters have installed their base, the majestic Stone Podium peeking out the tips of its pillars above the treetops, appearing to be small by the distance to which we were. There were few people and hybrids that were visible from our perspective, but even so I could tell that music and noise in general could be heard near here, too close, but I could not see anything like a stadium, or an area specially equipped for such a prestigious event, instead, the few citizens around that area were limited to looking at us with curiosity, since such a crowd was easy to notice from several kilometers away, especially because of the uproar that had already formed around us, it was crazy to see the emotion and seriousness with which some took this tournament.

The uneven terrain had not allowed me to see it with the naked eye, but just after climbing the small hill in front of us, I was able to see the impressive coliseum carved directly into the rock of the place. The huge hole had been consciously dug to form stands in its outermost rings, these stands were capable of hosting hybrids, making it extremely easy for them to see the show that was already taking place in the lower ring; the famous Zeingen.

The stands were partially empty, possibly because it was still too early for many citizens, as many of them still had to complete their morning tasks before they could even make time to enjoy the show. Despite the absence of an audience, a fight was taking place between a pair of hybrid trucks, which without having the pressure of a crowd watching them could afford to take short breaks between each encounter, simply by measuring their strength. But two spectators were clearly recognizable even from the distance we were standing at; a large red hybrid lounged along with its dark-skinned companion, both of them positioned in the central stands just next to one of the many entrance and exit ramps the coliseum had. Cilt's hybrid Leaders enjoyed their free time seeing the few participants in the morning and making them company, chatting with each other and... laughing? It was honestly the first time I had seen Leader Darius smile.

Zenda stopped at the top of the hill, looing at the arena a few dozen feet below her. The Warriors held their position by escorting Zenda, while the crowd rushed forward to take the best possible spots in the stands before the show began. I didn't know what had stopped Zenda, or if she had simply given herself a moment to appreciate the place, as she turned her back on the rest of the Warriors and me. A couple of minutes pass, and the arena begins to fill up rapidly. The Leaders are confused as are the current competitors, as there are usually not as many people at this time to appreciate the Zeingen. The bustle soon begins to overtake the sound of music that had been playing prior to our arrival, and everything seems to be ready at last. Confused, Darius looks up to identify where so many people had come from, and his gesture changed quickly when he saw Zenda on the top of the hill, he simply did not know how to react, so he delicately touches Kassia without taking off his view of Zenda. Kassia, on the other hand, smiles widely when she sees her, speaking with emotion towards her partner who still had not decided what gesture to show. It seemed that Zenda's goal had been accomplished; get the attention of Leader Darius.

Zenda begins to advance again, now directly towards the coliseum which lacked any shadow, it seemed that it would be a hard fight against the sun that began to be more and more cruel as the minutes passed. At last we had reached the upper tiers, which were almost completely full except for a modest space, which we managed to fit the entire group of Warriors, shoulder to shoulder and wheel to wheel, but forming a barrier to prevent the other hybrids from accidentally crushing us humans. Zenda continued on her way to the center of the arena, alone.

- This is insane! I never thought so many people would like to see this. Half Cilt is in the coliseum right now.- It is necessary for me to shout once I had taken a place sitting on the stands, right next to Iker's head so that he would not have so much trouble hearing me-

- It's because you've never been in a Zeingen! Trust me, you'll know in a moment. It's amazing that you are here to see this! Zenda hasn't participated in the Zeingen in over three years, can you believe it?! This is something very special, I am happy that you are here with me to see it.- Iker turns to see me, excited. I already missed seeing that sincere smile on him, and I was deeply happy to see that he was having fun, after the terrible days he has had to suffer lately, he was finally able to enjoy something- Now Ty, pay close attention, because this is part of what I have to teach you by being your guide. Zeingen has very simple rules, but they must be respected; No weapons, no bad intentions, no blood. The weapons thing, well, it's self-explanatory. It is forbidden to use this battles as a way to take revenge on someone, you always have to play fair. If a participant makes their opponent bleed, or manages to hurt them too much, the injured party has the option to end the fight and it is considered a technical draw. As a citizen, you have the right to participate and challenge whoever you want to a duel as long as it is of your same species, but your rival also has the right to reject the challenge, everything clear so far? -

- Yes, I think so Iker! - I kneel to be able to converse better with him, without the need to scratch my lungs with each scream- Then Zenda will choose her rival now, right? Do you have any idea who will be the "lucky one" to compete against her? She and Maverick didn't give many clues while we were still in the den.-

- I have no idea... well... there is someone who could possibly face her, but I doubt that he will accept, he has not fought in a long time, it would be almost a miracle if he wanted to.-

- And who is that rival? What is his name ... -

The loud howl of a horn being blown by a human in the center of the arena draws the attention of the crowd, considerably ceasing the bustle. The human seemed to be in charge of the battles at that time, because the entry to the center of the arena was not allowed to just anyone. The cord of the horn is hung on her shoulder while, with her hands on her waist, she safely walk around the inner ring.

- Citizens of Cilt! I am honored to be the organizer of this year's Zeingen, but that honor does not compare to welcoming once again one of the fiercest and most respected Warriors in our short but important history as an independent nation. Her victories inside and outside of Cilt are recounted in our legends, and her legacy has allowed us to overcome many obstacles on our way to peaceful coexistence between hybrids and humans. Comrades, with you, The untamed, Zenda! –

Zenda enters with the safety of a storm that lashes the forest in its path. Her unusual seriousness makes her look even more intimidating even though her small size compared to other hybrids that was evident from our perspective. The crowd roars, the Warriors call out her name, the anticipation palpable, as is the heat that only increased by every minute. Zenda allows her fans to release their euphoria for a few more moments, until they fall quiet little by little, everyone was ready to listen carefully to whatever Zenda had to say at this moment.

- Okay... I see you missed me a bit.- Her comment triggered some laughter, as it was not what many expected, but it was also a good method to break the tension- ... It is true that I was absent from the fights for a long time, more than I'd like to admit. But I can assure you that I never left the Zeingen completely. I was born to fight, and that is what I will continue to do for the rest of my life.- A slight pause creates noise again, and with it an almost synchronized roar from my Warrior friends, including Iker, stealing a smile from Zenda - ... But enough talk, you have not come to listen to me speak for hours, let's move on to the fun part at once, okay? -

Zenda walks along the edge of the arena, stretching her muscles before the big fight.

- Warrior Sub- Leader Zenda, who would you like to challenge? - The Zeingen organizer asks aloud, following the necessary formalities for each battle-

- ... - Zenda finishes stretching, opening her doors wide and returning them back to their place, and once she feels ready, she begins to look at the crowd, searching for an opponent worthy of her strength and experience. She hesitantly searches the spectators, eager to know at once what her final decision would be. Until her sight stops on the west side of the coliseum, in the central stands, right next to one of the ramps that connected the arena with the outside- I challenge the Leader Darius... I challenge my son.-

The public goes crazy, everyone seems to jump from their seats as soon as Zenda makes her choice public, because she had challenged Darius... Her son?

- D-Darius is Zenda's son?!- I was starting to feel a bit stupid for not figuring it out from the beginning... but it really would have been very difficult. They could both be Ferraris, but they were of different races. Furthermore, there was not much visual evidence that the two were related to each other. Darius and Zenda seemed polar opposites to be son and mother respectively-

- Oh... Yes Tyler, Zenda is Darius's mother! That is why she mentioned before that one of the few hybrids that has been able to defeat her has been her own son... I should have forgotten to mention it to you before.- Iker looked just as excited as the entire group of Warriors, who kept shouting Zenda's name at the top of their lungs-

The organizer needs to blow the horn one more time, the bustle was too loud to hear what was really important. As the audience was silent again, Darius simply limited himself to looking at his mother with a sarcastic smile that I had never seen in him, it seems that he was not very surprised by his mother's choice, but not too pleased either. Kassia was looking at both her partner and his mother in a funny way, she seemed to be the one who was having the most fun with their reactions for now. People seem to finally get over the first wave of surprises, allowing mother and son to have a non private conversation.

- Come down to the pit, Darius! Make your mother proud to see how strong you are.- Zenda yells in a mocking way, although it seemed that she was not the only one who knew how to use words that way-

- I'm sorry! I think I'll have to decline the offer. My mother taught me not to take advantage of opponents weaker than me.- Darius's irreverent response not only takes me by surprise, but all the onlookers who very possibly had not heard Darius speak in a tone other than authoritarian. It was clear that he would not succumb so easily, and I was sure that even someone like him had many reasons to not challenge someone like Zenda-

- Whoah! With that mouth you kiss your mother? I think all this time without fighting has made you a child very presumptuous of his own strength, Darius. Why are you so afraid? - Zenda insists, her words gradually testing Darius's patience, which had a reputation for being unbreakable-

- Oh, believe me, I have reasons not to want to fight with my own mother, and more so if she is the most dangerous Warrior of all Cilt ... let's say I would rather stay alive the rest of the summer, preferably.-

Darius was stubborn, although he must have his reasons for being so. It's possible that no one in all of Cilt knows Zenda better than Darius himself, and it was understandable that he didn't want to participate. Although the crowd disagreed, they were all determined to see both of them fight. The silence in the environment begins to break, the spectators begin to give words of encouragement to Darius, which soon turned into an ovation, calling his name and giving him the courage he needed to get up from his place.

<< Darius! Darius! Darius! >>

The coliseum roared his name with power, growing louder and more insistent. The hybrids made noise as they abruptly opened and closed their doors, the humans clapped and kicked their feet to the beat of his name. Darius looks around, unable to believe they were all calling his name at the same time.

- Your city calls you, my son. What will you do now? - Zenda maintains her position, and her same gesture. Something inside her knew perfectly well that the young La Ferrari would not resist for much longer-

Darius resumes his common expression, meeting his mother's eyes as the coliseum continued to demand his participation. He glances at Kassia who was by his side keeping him company, as if her opinion was the only one that mattered to him at that moment. Kassia turns to him, smiles conspicuously, and gives her approval by nodding slightly. Finally, Darius rises from his place, and with a vicious smile he makes his way to the center of the arena, it was really happening. Two legends would fight today.

- Leader Darius has accepted Zenda's challenge, the battle proceeds! - The organizer takes place again in the center of the arena, waiting patiently for Darius to make his way to the deepest part of the coliseum, and indicating to Zenda the place she would take to start the battle-

Darius patiently walks down the stands, stalking silently. It was genuinely terrifying to see a hybrid his size move with such confidence. No one dares to stand in his way, it is clear to see where he inherited this ability. The crowd continued to call his name as if it were a battle cry, although little by little the cheering divided between the two contenders, it being increasingly evident who was on Darius's side and those on Zenda's side, although both sides where really equal. Despite the initial shock to see that Darius would participate, all the Warriors including Iker supported Zenda, so I dedicated myself to doing the same, being completely consumed by the adrenaline that little by little was built in the center of the arena. Now I was beginning to understand why the Zeingen was so important and exciting to everyone.

Once Darius takes his place, he uses the opportunity to show off as well, he opens his wide doors taking advantage of the fact that these opened upwards unlike Zenda's doors, these made him look even bigger, showing the majestic tattoos on both doors. The crowd greets him with euphoria, and he genuinely seems to enjoy it, taking a full turn to appreciate everyone. I thought that would be the perfect time for Darius to show his roar, which I have never heard and I was very curious to listen, but it seems that he has reserved it for now. He folds his doors again and takes his place, with the same serene and stoic gesture as always.

- Don't think I will have mercy on you because you are my mother, you know that is not my style.- Darius says coldly towards Zenda, making her laugh audibly-

- Don't worry my child, I didn't expect you to do so.- Zenda opens her doors again, this time as a way to incite Darius- ... Show me if all that training has been useful.-

Darius reacts to Zenda's gesture and takes the same intimidating position as her, for now it was all a psychological intimidation game before starting the fight. Both contestants wait patiently without taking their eyes off each other.

- Warrior Sub-Leader Zenda, are you ready? - The organizer points her hand at Zenda, who lets out a powerful roar in response, making the human smile- Leader Darius, are you ready? - Now she points towards Darius, and he simply nods his head, making the organizer nod equally respectfully towards him. She moves away from the center of the arena, going up to one of the stands towards a safe area, taking the horn with both hands- Fight! - The horn sounds for the last time, making its sound reverberate through the Zeingen crowd-

Zenda wastes no time and lunges towards Darius as soon as the battle had officially begun, but Darius had predicted her rash attack even before it was executed, the massive hybrid leaps to the side until it is out of Zenda's reach, causing her to correct the trajectory from one moment to the next, wasting precious seconds that Darius did not hesitate to use to his advantage. Darius pointed his nose towards Zenda's side, and leaning on the great thrust that his rear wheels gave him, he lunged at her side with a sharp blow which was audible to all onlookers, said blow made Zenda roar, but it was not from pain, but anger at having been inadvertently attacked. Zenda backs away to avoid a second attack, keeping distance between herself and Darius, who maintained his composure above all else, although there was a slight smile of satisfaction on his face, as his mother showed her sharp teeth towards her familiar opponent.

- I think the one who has forgotten her lessons is you, my dear mother.-

Zenda was breathing heavily from her corner, planning her next move. It was clear that she could not defeat Darius with brute force, since the male hybrid was almost twice her size and weight, she needed something more effective and intelligent than that despite the fact that outwitting Darius' intelligence was almost a feat, but not for long, not while he was immersed in the adrenaline of the battle. After all, this female Ferrari had a lot of tricks in her extensive experience as an elite fighter.

Darius waits until Zenda is ready to attack again, and Zenda accelerates quick on her way to ram Darius again, just like before. Darius prepares to evade her attack again, and once Zenda is at a critical distance he turns his body to avoid her, but this time the result was different. Without realizing it, Zenda stops short before surpassing Darius's body, she pushes herself with her rear wheels, and using all the force and momentum of her body she manages to push Darius with enough force to destabilize him, leaving both of them standing on their rear wheels locked together once Zenda grabs onto Darius's left front wheel with one of her claws, knocking him off balance and landing on his side.

People did not believe what they were seeing, the great Darius had been momentarily overtaken by a hybrid half his size, but the battle was still not over until neither of them gave up or was unable to continue, and it seemed that neither of them would give up at this point in the battle.

For the first time in the entire confrontation, concern can be seen on Darius' face, he was sure that if he don't act soon this battle would end earlier than planned, it seemed that there was no time for games. Zenda, still holding on to Darius, tries to overturn him with all her strength so that he is completely belly up, and end the fight once and for all, because she knew that the more time passed in the fight, the more opportunities she gived to her opponent to be able to exploit her weak points. Zenda had the upper hand at that moment, it just took a little more effort to turn him completely, and she did it. The force on Darius's side causes him to lean on his back, but Darius uses the momentum to literally turn the situation upside down. Darius takes advantage of Zenda's impulse and applying even more force himself makes Zenda now the one who exposes her side towards Darius. The weight of Darius on her body was overwhelming, not even the full force of the Ferrari Italia would be enough to shake him off, it was almost certain who would be the champion of this battle.

But Zenda wouldn't leave it this way. The moment calls to her deep instinct for survival, and in an aggressive move she manages to unlatch her front wheel from Darius's, freeing it to give him a forceful blow to his nose, leaving a somewhat deep wound caused by her sharp claw lodged in the inside of her wheel. Darius immediately recoils, stunned and with his nose bleeding, turning his back to Zenda who re-establishes herself on her four wheels as she no longer has Darius's weight pressing on her ribs. Zenda's gesture said it all; It had not been her intention to hurt Darius, that movement had been completely involuntary.

Darius closes his eyes to the sharp pain, shakes his head slightly in an attempt to soothe the bruise on his skull and the burning feeling of his recent wound. The organizer jumps back into the arena, running towards Darius to check his condition as he kept turning his back on Zenda, giving me and the Warriors a chance to see him head-on, it really had been a great blow, and the blood soon started running towards his chin. The crowd fell silent, not knowing what would happen now.

<< Blood, there is blood! Leader Darius is bleeding! >>

As Iker had explained, making the rival bleed was forbidden at Zeingen, and if such a thing happened, the injured had the opportunity to end the fight as a draw... but something inside me told me that this would not be the case. Both had to overcome too many barriers already to be able to fight, a little blood would not be an impediment for a guy like Darius to continue the fight, because the numerous battle scars on his back (of which I had barely noticed when this was the first time I saw him from a considerable height), all those scars were proof that he had managed to go through much worse than that.

The human carefully examines Darius's wound while he catches his breath, judging by the time it took him to recover, it seemed that they were both lacking in exceptionally good physical condition. It seems that the absence at the Zeingen had taken its toll on both of them.

- Leader Darius. Zenda has broken the Zeingen laws, and as you know you have the choice to end the fight and ... -

- I want to continue. - Darius interrupts her before she could finish, making the organizer stutter for a few moments- ... I want to continue fighting, please.-

- A... Are you sure, my Leader? -

- ... - Darius licks his recent wound, cleaning the blood that had reached his mouth, and it is not until that moment that he opens his eyes again, now more determined than ever.- ... Absolutely.-

The uproar is present again, soon the arena of the Zeingen shouts the name of Darius again, including me and the Warriors, it seems that our loyalty had momentarily changed.

- Darius! Darius! Darius! - In some inexplicable way, Zenda seems to identify our screams and turns to look at us angrily, making us switch idols almost immediately- Darius! Da... Z-Zenda! Zenda! Zenda! - The Warriors shouted nervously, it was not good that their immediate leader had realized that we were not supporting her at that moment, although it had been a comical moment for all-

Zenda seems convinced of our change in applause, so much so that she had distracted from the horn that had sounded again indicating that the battle should continue. Darius is focused to applying the same tactic as his mother at the start of the fight. The wound on his nose had given him the missing energy to exploit his full strength, and this time he would be faithful to his promise not to show mercy towards his mother, while maintaining the sportsmanship that the Zeingen demanded.

Darius attacks Zenda's side with his bleeding nose, and having hit so hard he manages to suffocate Zenda and make her expose her lower part, which Darius takes advantage of and turns her over until she is with her stomach completely exposed. Zenda roars in despair at not expecting such a blow, and moves violently in a desperate attempt to get up on her four wheels as soon as possible, but Darius positions himself on top of her body, preventing Zenda from turning when having to carry the weight of her son on her ribs. Zenda does not give up despite that, she growls and incessant struggles raise a cloud of dust, annoying Darius a bit who was looking for a way to end the combat once and for all. He locks his front wheels into Zenda's, gripping them firmly with its thick claws, and once it has her pinned, he fills his lungs with stale sand air, and lets out one of the most powerful and thunderous roars I've ever heard, the echo of his deep roar vibrates in the audience's ears, almost completely silencing them in shock. Once finished, Darius exhales deeply while showing his teeth, with all his pupils fully dilated. It takes him a short time to realize that the moment had overtake him, there was a bit of concern in his gesture, and he takes a few moments to inspect that he had not caused harm to anyone, not to his own mother, who was also stunned by Darius's roar. Zenda, being unable to continue having been pinned down by Darius, had lost the battle. Thus making Darius the champion. The match was over, and with an ending that made everyone scream with excitement.

- Leader Darius wins the battle! - The horn is heard one last time, and the audience celebrates one more victory for their beloved Leader, who was impressed to have won. It seems that even he did not expect victory-

As soon as the battle was over, Darius immediately removed his body from Zenda's, and helped her rejoin on her four wheels, the noise of the crowd made it impossible to hear what they were talking to each other, but when I saw that they were smiling at each other was more than enough to figure it out, they had both had a great fight, and Zenda was proud to see what her son was capable of, taking a few moments to clean the wound she had unintentionally caused on his nose, to which Darius would not refuse. Usually they wouldn't let the audience invade the arena, but the organizer seems to make an exception, just for this occasion. Hybrids and humans, all Zeingen fans come down the stands to cheer both fighters, while they enjoy the attention. Kassia also meets again with Darius, and not together they spend time with their admirers.

The Warriors have organized to go down to the arena also to keep Zenda company and I was waiting my turn to start going down the stands, but a silhouette alien to the Zeingen distracts me for a moment, a hybrid walked with heaviness around the coliseum. Their white skin made the bleeding wounds it carried more noticeable, and it seemed that they had given up trying to ask someone in the audience for help, because their weak voice had not been able to overcome the bustle of the Zeingen.

- Iker... Iker! There is a wounded hybrid up there, we must help them! - I call Iker's attention before heading outside, I had to hurry, because no one else seemed to have seen that badly wounded hybrid-

- Ty? - Iker turns around him, but at that moment I had already lost sight of him- Tyler! W-Where are you?! - Iker gets up on his back wheels, unable to know where I had gone-

It was very difficult for me to get out of the stands quickly, but I was finally out. The hybrid had continued a few meters before giving up, dropping its body to the ground, leaving a trail of blood in its wake. It was a Corvette Stingray with Cilt tattoos, its white skin was covered in blood from its injuries, and it seemed to be dragging one of its rear wheels, which looked in very bad condition. I run until I come across the gasping hybrid, throwing myself to my knees as soon as I arrived to check if she was still conscious.

- Hey! Hey, can you hear me? You're fine, but you have to resist for the help to come... - I put my hands on her face, and seeing that she was reacting and still breathing, I could leave her for a moment to ask for help-... Help! Please help! There is a wounded hybrid here! I need a Medic! - The hybrid was losing blood rapidly, I took off the hoodie that until that moment I had tied around my waist and I use it to try to stop the bleeding from one of her biggest wounds, nobody seemed to have heard my cries for help, they were all in the Zeingen-

- Ho... pper- The Corvette takes a great effort to speak, causing a little blood to come out of her mouth-... r-run, Hopper... run away.-

- I'm not leaving you here! Please resist, help is on the way... - I turn desperately around me, it was not possible that no one had heard me, or that they had not noticed my absence, not even Iker had been able to follow me- Help! Someone help me please! - At last, I can hear Iker in the distance, he was screaming my name desperately from inside the coliseum- Iker! I'm here! Help me!-

- ... Hopper... - The hybrid opens her door with enough force to push me to the ground, as it had hit me directly in the back, I was lying on the ground next to the Corvette with yellow eyes, in which I could see a gaze of terror that I have never seen in my life.- Y-you have to run! ... He ... has f-followed me here ... and is comming for you ... run ... -

I had no idea what the hybrid was referring to, if she really spoke of real danger or was simply hallucinating at the brutal loss of blood and exhaustion, but she was aware of who I was despite me not remembering seeing her before. She dedicates her little energy to repeating the same thing over and over again, keeping her haunting gaze towards me, leaving me immobile.

- Tyler! - I could hear Iker getting closer and closer, it seemed that he had finally found me-

- ... Run, Hopper ... - The hybrid closes her eyes, completely overcome by fatigue-

A pale shadow in the middle of the forest from which the Corvette had come freezes my blood, their figure was easy to recognize by their equally white skin, although full of deep scars. They spied on us from the safety of their hiding place, stalking me with ice cold eyes. Displaying the dreadful Vortex mark on its forehead, stained with the same blood as the weakened hybrid next to me.

- ... Run-

Hybrid-Kira (2020)