I

Retropolis is in flames. Building purging with fire throughout the city. Civilians run amok in the streets trying to reach the outskirts. Vehicles speeding through the streets, running into crowds and other vehicles. Causing more chaos and panic in an already havoc and burning city. He came to a sudden stop in the middle of the road. Getting out of the Rapid-Blade, The Swordman stood in the presence of Death herself. Death laughed at the destruction and burning of the city. Savoring the moment. Seeing The Swordman being there only excited her further.

“What is happening here?” The Swordman asked.

“What do you think? The end of this city.”

“Why have you done this?”

“Wait? You think I did this?”

“Who else would. Out of all the adversaries I’ve faced, you’re the only one standing in the city. The others are not.”

“Oh, boy. Poor Swords. If you could only truly see what I’m seeing.”

“Enlighten me. What do you see?”

“This city is being, how would you put it, judged.”

“Judged?”

“Judgment has finally come to Retropolis and you’re seeing the beginning of it.”

“You’re saying this is part of a supernatural work.”

“Obviously.”

“But it is not from a benevolent source.”

“Ah.” Death uttered. “So you can truly see.”

“Who’s causing this?”

“Beats me.”

The Swordman lunged toward Death. Grabbing her by her leather coat, lifting her off her feet. She could only laugh at him. His strength and force didn’t bother her. It fascinated her.

“Tell me who’s behind this!”

“I don’t know.” Death said with a calm still voice. “I truly do not know.”

The Swordman took a moment. Thinking. As he does, he placed Death to her feet and removed himself from her presence, returning to the rapid-blade and driving off. Death stood where she was and continued savoring the flames around her. The Swordman returned to the Swordlair and quickly went to the desk and from the other entrance came Allison. Swordman grabbed a large and old book from the shelf and sat down at the desk.

“What’s happening out there?”

“The city is in flames and it’s not a natural cause.”

“Then who caused it?”

“I don’t know.”

“What about Death?”

“She’s in the city and she was not responsible.”

“Are you sure?”

“I questioned her myself. She knows what’s happening and it made sense. There’s something supernatural going on in the city.”

“How would she even know.”

“She told me the city is being judged. I understand the term. But, however, I did not discern a benevolent force behind the fire. There’s something darker happening and it’s right under our sight.”

“What’s the current objective now, husband?”

“I can’t figure this out all on my own. I’m going to contact a fellow worker in this field.”

“Who?”

Meanwhile in the United States, a strange spirit lurked around a family home. The family stand outside the home while a vintage impala drove up to the lot and out stepped Travis Vail, the Spirit-Seeker. He glanced at the family and stared toward the house.

“Oh, I feel you in there.”

Vail looked over to the frightened family, wearing their pajamas. The father of the family ran to Vail.

“Please, get it out of our home!”

“I will do my best.” Vail nodded.

Vail entered the home and shut the door. Silence is everywhere and within seconds, the spirit appeared before him. Vail chuckled, seeing the spirit in its astral form.

“Well then, who let you in?”

“I have my orders.” The spirit said. “As do you.”

“As you can see, my orders are contradicting yours. You don’t belong on this plane, spirit.”

“I’ve heard tales of your works, Spirit-Seeker. I know every trick you possess.”

“Nah. You don’t.”

Vail tossed his hands in the air, releasing a shade of dust. Yet, it was no ordinary dust. The dust latched itself on the spirit’s astral form as if it was a solid body. The spirit panicked, rubbing the dust from its body. Vail chuckled.

“Now, what you’re seeing there is a little trick of my own. Dust made from silver and water which was used during a baptism. It will burn into your very being until I give way to let it loose.”

“You devil!”

“There’s only one devil in this home and it’s you, lad.”

“Get this vile off me!”

“Vile?! The only thing vile is you. Now, it’s time for you to leave.”

“I will leave! Only when you remove this concoction from me.”

“Figured you would say such a thing.”

Vail retracted the dust from the spirit’s disembodied body and the spirit dove away. Nowhere to be seen. Vail smirked and nodded.

“My work here is done.”

Returning outside, Vail saw the family huddled together in the distance near the side of the home. They were staring at something in the street. Vail turned and looked, seeing what they saw.

“How did you find me?” Vail said, looking at The Swordman.

“I have my ways.” The Swordman said. “I need your help.”

“What do my services require this time?”

“Everything you possess. Everything you know.”

Vail rubbed his chin and nodded.

“Where do we start?”

II

“And are you positive she wasn’t involved?” Vail asked.

“I am.” The Swordman said. “I could sense it.”

“Hmm. Funny little thing. Alright then, I’ll tag along for this little journey. But, where do we go for answers?”

“Best we check Pegasus first.”

“Ah, Pegasus Prison. Its history is dark enough, let alone the city itself burning.”

“With all those inside, answers are surely to be there.”

“Then let’s head out.”

The Swordman and Vail travel into Retropolis and make the turns to reach Pegasus Prison. Exiting the Rapid-Blade, Vail stepped out and looked at the gothic structure that is the prison. He nodded with a smirk.

“Shabby place.”

“Just wait till you’re inside.” The Swordman added.

“Sure thing. As do those inside relate to the exterior?”

“I wouldn’t be so sure.”

They stepped past the front gates, quickly a flash of light bolted in front of them. Swordman covered his eyes with his cloak and Vail just stood there, watching. From the light was a young girl, wearing a dress dating back to the Renaissance era. She is Leta, staring a hole at Vail and gazing toward The Swordman.

“Leta.” Vail said.

“You know this girl?”

“Very well. Helped a family who was being abused by this spirit. Protected the girl who she seemed to befriend. But, it was all a ruse to destroy a decent family home.”

“Why are you here in Retropolis?” The Swordman asked Leta.

“Darkness has come and sent out the signal. We are all here.”

“Who’s here?” Vail questioned. “Who else came crawling out of the holes with you?”

“I did!” A voice came echoing from behind them.

They turned to find another woman, although not a spirit, but a living one. Standing still, holding a cane. She walked into the street light, revealing herself toward Swordman and Vail. She let out a laugh while twirling the cane.

“Maria Swan.” The Swordman said.

“And, you know this one.” Vail said. “Cheeky.”

“It seems myself and Leta have come to an agreement.” Maria said. “This is what Death wanted.”

“Is that what she told you?” Swordman asked. “To join in with forces beyond your understanding?”

“Whatever Death tells me to do, I do it.”

“If the lass told you to cut your throat and drink the blood to close the wound, would you do it?”

“What kind of question is that?” Maria said.

“One to take you off guard.”

Leta teleported like the wind, standing between Maria, Vail, and Swordman. She raised her hands and the wind itself began to appear. Swordman looked around as did Maria, Vail kept his eyes on Leta with a grin.

“You want to play this game, lass?” Vail asked Leta.

“Your in my game now!”

“Not likely.”

Vail snapped his fingers and a dimensional rift appeared behind Leta, pulling her in with great force. Leta shrieked as she fought to stay away from the rift. However, Maria could only watch, just as The Swordman. Vail clapped his hands and the rift with great strength, pulled Leta in and closed.

“Ta for that.” Vail chuckled.

“Um. Um..” Maria stuttered. “I can only tell you what I know.”

“Speak.” Swordman said. “Or else you’ll be going somewhere similar.”

“OK. I heard there were some things going on in the forest. Reasons for the fires and the ghosts roaming on about.”

“Is that all?”

“That’s all I know.”

Maria nodded and ran off. Vail watched, turning to The Swordman while checking to see how far Maria was from them by listening to the sound of her echoing breathing.

“You’re just going to let her go?”

“She’s not an important factor right now is she?”

“Doesn’t appear to be.” Vail replied. “Now what? We head to the forest?”

‘Yes.”

Upon arrival at the Retropolis Forest, Vail remembered something familiar about the place, turning to The Swordman while gazing at the trees into the darkness.

“I wonder if our old friend still lurks around here.”

“I’m sure he does.”

“Hell, could’ve contacted him to help you out. Not me.”

“You’re in this field. It was meant for you to assist.”

“Eh. That’s debatable.”

Vail looked around, finding themselves deep into the forest, yet, there was a trail in their path. Similar to a roadway, yet, far too narrow for vehicles.

“You know this spot?” Vail asked.

“I do.” The Swordman replied. “Leads to the mountains.”

“Ah. Swell. Perhaps-”

The trees began to shake, Swordman was prepared and Vail was curious.

“Wind’s not blowing.” Vail said.

“I noticed.”

From the rustling tress surrounding them, pounces down Dyclos, known as the Immortal Werewolf. Dyclos stood, towering over the two detectives. Swordman raised up his sword and Vail stood still, with his hands in his pants pockets.

“What have we here?” Dyclos growled. “Two peculiar forces. Joined together for the same cause.”

“What are you doing here, Dyclos?” Swordman asked.

“I have great knowledge of the judgment taking place upon this city. I was given the full order to make sure no one interfered with the work at hand.”

“Who gave you the order, big dog?” Vail asked.

“None of your concern. Although, you can do yourselves a favor and leave the forest. Turn around and walk on.”

“I’m not leaving until I have answers.” The Swordman said, twirling his blade.

“The answers are already revealed, Swordman of the Modern Era. You haven’t been looking in the right places. Or have you?”

“Listen, tell us what we came to know or face some dire trouble.”

“Travis Vail, you do not fear me. Nor I you.”

“Figured as much. Now, let’s cut the chit-chat and tell us what we came for. I know you know.”

Dyclos growled under his breath. His beaming yellow eyes were locked onto Vail. Vail smirked in the face of the Great Wolf. Swordman stood steady, sword in hand, ready for a fight.

“I am going to kill the both of you.” Dyclos declared. “You’ve given me no other option!”

“Dyclos went for a swipe toward Vail, but clashed against the blade of The Swordman. The two stared down one another as Vail took steps back. Grinning toward the Immortal Werewolf.

“You do not want this fight, Master Swordman.”

“I believe I have no other choice.”

Swordman pulled back the blade and clashed it against Dyclos’ arm. The sword did not cut through the Wolf’s rough skin, for his hair was already stronger than humans. The two went at one another. Sword against claws. Vail set himself back against a nearby tree, watching the two enemies face off against one another. The Swordman took the hilt of the blade and swiped it toward Dyclos’ face, before kicking him and tripping the Wolf to the ground.

“Yield yourself.” Swordman suggested.

Dyclos clawed the sword from his face and jumped to his feet. The two went at it once more with Swordman slashing Dyclos’ right leg, beneath the knee. Vail watched on as Dyclos fell to one knee, he looked down and instantly, the wound healed. Vail saw it clearly, as did Swordman.

“Bloody hell.” Vail mumbled.

Dyclos delivered an uppercut to The Swordman and stood over him with his large hands in the air. Vail couldn’t watch no longer as he ran toward the Immortal Werewolf, but was bum-rushed by Dyclos’ quickening speed. Dyclos howled before the full moon and without a notice, the ground started to quake.

“What is this?” Dyclos said.

The Swordman rose up from the ground and stepped back, he gestured Vail to do the same, to which Vail nodded in agreement.

“I figured he would show up.” Vail said. “About damn time.”

From the dirt in front of Dyclos appeared the Mutant-Thing. Towering over the Immortal Werewolf. The two were almost at similar heights. Mutant-Thing gazed toward Dyclos, who roared toward him with a viciousness. Mutant-Thing raised up his right arm and from the sky came down snow, pounding atop Dyclos. Dyclos scratched and clawed his way through the sudden snow, reaching Mutant-Thing and he did, scratching the elemental bark of the entity. Yet, it did not work as Mutant-Thing grabbed Dyclos by the head and tossed him far off into the forest. There was silence.

“Why have you come here?” Mutant-Thing asked.

“We’re here on business, Earth One.” Vail said. “Trying to find the source of the city’s flames and the rampaging of spirits.”

“What you seek does not lie in this forest.”

“In the mountains?” Swordman asked.

“Yes.” The Mutant-Thing said before vanishing into the ground, as if he was never there.

“The mountains, eh?” Vail said.

“That’s where we must go.” The Swordman replied.

Before they could take another step, a strange portal opened before them and out walked the Visitant Outlander. He nodded toward Vail and Swordman with his glowing white eyes and flowing white hair moving with the coming winds of the portal.

“Why have you come?” Vail asked. “Must be of dire need.”

“I have come to warn you of your current affairs.”

“Such as?” Swordman asked.

“What you seek, does in fact rests in the mountains. Within an ancient structure, built many centuries ago. Centuries before Retropolis was even built. Before many nations were formed.”

“What’s your point?” Vail asked.

“My point, is clear. Your futures depend on this quest to be solved. Or else, you will face a certain and dreadful death.”

“At who’s hand?” The Swordman asked. “I’m curious.”

“From those who do the will of the Fallen One. It is written and now, it lives.”

The Visitant Outlander returned to the portal and vanished. Vail shook his head, turning back and forth to Swordman and the trail leading to the mountains.

“I take it we’re going to the mountains anyway.”

“You’re right.”

“Very well. I’ll make a call to some worthy friends. Perhaps, they can aid us if things get worse.”

“Fair enough.” The Swordman replied, walking down the trail.

III

They reached the famed Fable Mountains of Retropolis. Nothing but a clear trail in front and tall trees behind them. Vail glanced up at the high mountains and could see smoke. He pointed, with keen interest as The Swordman also looked up.

“Figured they’re up there.”

“Let’s get moving.” The Swordman replied.

Upon their footsteps near the mountain, a strange and unknown mist rose from the ground, surrounding them carefully, strategically. They stood close, prepared to fight if necessary. Vail chuckled under his breath.

“This isn’t the Fog I’m familiar with.”

“I know what this is.” Swordman said. “They’re here.”

“Who’s here?” Vail wondered.

Vail turned toward Swordman and saw what he was staring at. Four beings atop horses. All diverse in nature, skill, appearance, and color. The Swordman stepped forward, walking through the growing mist toward the entities.

“Why are you here?” Swordman asked.

One moved forward to confront The Swordman. The horse was pale in appearance, the rider carried a scythe and its eyes were piercing red with hints of violet. The rider rose the scythe and slammed it between himself and The Swordman.

“You know why we’re here, Myth-Walker.”

“You didn’t answer my question. Reaper.”

“We are under no obligation to answer the requests of humans.”

“Then, why are you in our way?” Vail said, approaching the Horseman.

“Because your kind should not trample on matters such as this.”

“What matters concern here are of my duty.” The Swordman said. “Now, tell me, why are the Four Horsemen of the Forbidden here in Retropolis, near the Fable Mountains?”

Another Horsemen moved forward, the horse was white and the rider carried a bow and arrow. His name was Bane. He gestured toward Reaper to stand down and Reaper’s horse backed away from The Swordman and Vail. The other two Horsemen, Rage and War sat back silently.

“You know the circumstances of our appearance, Sword-One.”

“Do you know what’s truly happening here? The causes for the city’s flames and the uprising of spiritual forces?”

“We do.” Bane said. “For atop the mountain, there is a certain warlock, responsible for the causes of this city. I believe the Spirit-Seeker knows him very well.”

“How would I know him well?” Vail said. “I don’t know many warlocks.”

“If you could guess, who could do such a thing to a city like this?” Swordman asked. “I’m sure you have someone in mind.”

Vail took a second and thought. Upon his thinking, he nodded and snapped his fingers.

“I know who’s doing this.”

Swordman nodded, turning back to Bane with confirmation. Bane nodded.

“Then, I will allow the two of you to stop him. If you can.”

“You know how I operate.” Swordman said.” Trust me, he will be stopped.”

“And if he is not, we will be waiting for you.” Bane replied. “The both of you.”

The Horsemen retreated and the mist cleared. The ground was visible once more. Vail nodded, shaking his head as Swordman turned toward him and gazing at the mountain.

“How do you keep up with all this?” Vail asked.

“And you’re asking me.”

They went on and walked into the mountains, reaching near the top where they came across the ancient castle ruins. Vail was impressed by the remains of the castle, for there was little broken apart and the tower of the castle still stood tall.

“You ever been to this place?” Vail asked.

“Once. Fought a walking armor and a successor of Dracula.”

“Walking armor and Dracula’s successor? When?”

“A tale for another time.” The Swordman replied. “Right now, we need to stop whoever is causing all of this and they’re right inside that tower.”

They stepped into the opened doors of the castle and entered. While they entered the castle, the doors closed themselves, neither Swordman or Vail were startled, they didn’t even look back. Yet in front of them were two others. Death herself and the one Vail knew. Vail walked forward.

“I’ll be.” Vail said. “Figured such.”

Standing beside Death was the adversary to Vail’s work and purpose. He smirked, clapping his hands with his eyes focused on the Spirit-Seeker.

“You knew it had to be me.”

“And who is this guy?” The Swordman asked.

“Vernon Lance.” Vail answered. “Satanic Priest and powerful warlock.”

“I would assume that the great Swordman of Retropolis would know of my existence.”

“I know now.”

“Aw, don’t be such a petty guy.” Death uttered. “This is exacrlt what needed to happen.”

“I thought you would’ve gone and hid away in your corner.”

“Swords, you knew I was behind the fires and the spirits. You always knew.”

‘That is true, but, I also knew you couldn’t do it all alone.”

Death sighed and Vernon stepped in front of her.

“Since we’ve all met one another, let’s begin this little game of ours.”

“Not before my fellow friends arrive.” Vail said.

“What friends?” Swordman asked.

Vail pointed and from the ceiling came down Cinderella and from the ground arose Robert Ford, known as the Ghost of England. The two stood on the sides of Swordman and Vail. Death decided to tiptoe backwards, but Vernon was focused. His eyes were intense on the four in front of him and his energy was growing.

“You’ve never understood, Spirit-Seeker.”

“Oh, I understand enough.”

The team stormed toward Lance, who conjured up a energetic force field, shielding him and Death from heir attacks. Swordman ran over, tossing electric shurikens, which broke through the shield. Catching Lance by surprise, Swordman rushed over, kicking Lance in the chin. Cinderella and Death fought one another, but, Death savored the beating Cinderella was giving her and laid on the ground. Lance blew back Swordman and Vail. The Ghost of England teleported behind Lance, holding him down. Vail blasted a windy beam toward Lance. He began to laugh.

“Again, you never understood.” Lance uttered. “I am a greater kind!”

Lance increased the energy’s strength and pushed back Swordman, Vail, and Ford across the castle grounds.

“This guy is powerful.” Swordman said. “I’m impressed.”

“Knew you would be as such.” Vail added.

Lance’s eyes turned red. His pupils were gone and around him formed a whirlpool of dark energy. The winds blew strong within the castle. Pushing the heroes back against the walls. Blowing Ford outside the castle due to his ghostly form.

“There is a way we can stop him!” Vail yelled.

“I’m all ears!” Swordman replied.

“Your sword!”

Swordman looked at his sword and nodded toward Vail. There, The Swordman made his moves to reach Lance, using the sword to block the coming winds. Inching closer and closer, Swordman raised his sword, slashing through the whirlpool and cutting Lance’s arm. Vernon fell to his knee, holding his right arm in pain as The Swordman towered over him, sword over his head.

“Remove the curse from this land.” The Swordman declared. “Or else, you’ll be leaving this world.”

Lance paused and sighed, glaring at Vail, who waved. Lance shook his head and slowly nodded.

“Very well, I will remove the curse. But, this is not the end.”

“One day, it will be.” The Swordman replied.

Lance vanished in a quickening rift. Swordman looked around and Death herself was gone.

“Where is she?” Swordman asked.

“I looked for her and didn’t find her.” Cinderella said. “Not sure where she’s run off to.”

“She’ll come around.”

“Well, looks like the curse is gone.” Vail said.

“How can you be so sure?”

“Because the fires have ceased.”

Swordman looked out of the nearby window, seeing the city of Retropolis in the horizon. The fires are gone.

“The spirits have returned to the realms.” Ford said. “The area is cleansed of any malevolent forces.”

“The task is done.” Vail said.

“For now.” Swordman replied.

The heroes stepped out of the castle, Cinderella and Ford left, returning to their places across the world. Swordman and Vail shook hands.

“It was a short one, but, gives me enough to go on.” Vail said.

“Until next time.” Swordman replied.

“And when will this ‘next time’ be?”

“When Death shows her face again. With a foe of your own.”

“Indeed.” Vail said. “Well, I have another investigation to go on and I’m sure you have some other works to take care of.”

“I do.”

Vail walked away, looking back and The Swordman was gone. Vail smirked and continued on his way.

After several weeks, reports across the city detailed recent attacks by a woman who called herself Fear and once those activities surfaced, the Rapid-Blade was seen once more in the city and everyone knew The Swordman was still around and prepared.

THE END