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Chapter Text

(Y/n)'s POV:

It has been a year since we lost Wu. In an effort to both search for our master and watch over Ninjago, Lloyd sent us all over the continent. Some of us followed up on rumors we heard about Wu and others went on missions to help the people of Ninjago. Sometimes a bit of both.

In between it all, I have been training with Mystake to master my Oni powers and other teachings my mother had shown her, both of which I've made great progress on. Now I am able to focus my Oni reflexes, enhanced senses, and rage with ease without losing control anymore. Still having trouble getting a hang of the whole shapeshifting bit. Changing a hand or a single part of my body is easy. Changing all of it...not so much.

Mystake helped me successfully extract the Elemental energy from the Reversal Blade into a Crystal but in turn destroyed the Blade itself. I have since been practicing how to replicate the Time Crystal, as I'm calling it, when need be. Mystake and I have even tested it out in our combat training. While I still haven't beaten her, the Time Crystal has gotten me quite close.

Lloyd still doesn't know about this, any of this. The Time crystal, Mystake, my Oni heritage, none of it. Granted, we've both been busy with him stepping up as Master coordinating missions and then me being sent out on those missions across the world. I'm not complaining. I've done some real good out here and helped a lot of people, especially with all the training I've been getting on the side.

However it has hindered Lloyd and I's relationship a bit, with not being able to see each other or be together as long. We text when we can but I feel we are drifting with the long trips, keeping us a secret from the other Ninja, as well as the secrets I'm keeping from him. I worried how he'd respond to everything that has happened. It's still hard for me to see past the Oni history and see myself as something other than a monster. I don't want Lloyd to see me differently, or even worse: lose him.

But I can't dwell on that right now, I'm tracking a gang of thieves through a forest. With my new powers and the cover of night, I am easily able to track my targets while masking my presence. I followed the trail to a cave, where they must be hoarding the stolen goods. These thieves have been raiding nearby villages for food and valuables recently. The people haven't been unable to stop them, let alone find them. Villagers have told me how well organized the gang has been and how they seemed well trained in combat.

I can put a stop to this right here and now and return the stolen goods. I watch and see two guards at the entrance of the cave from atop the tree branch I'm perched on. I can hear many voices coming from the cave, sounds like they are having quite the celebration. With my Oni powers I can sense at least a dozen people within that cave as well as a large pile of stuff along the back wall. I don my Ninja hood and slide down the tree trunk. Hidden in shadow, I make my approach up to the cave entrance.

The guards are blocking the entrance to the cave. I pull a small Crystal from my robes and shoot it past the guards at a rock. The sound causes them to go check what that was. As they do so, I creep behind the two men before quickly slamming their heads against each other. The two men fall to the ground unconscious. Crystal surrounds them with a move of my hand, holding them down. I stuff a piece of excess cloth into each of their mouths so they don't make a sound before I go greet their buddies.

Entering the cave I turn my hands into claws and climb up the sidewall and onto the ceiling. As I creep along the ceiling I enter the inner room of the cave and see the gang having a good time. Twenty people mull about the cave dancing, laughing, all of them drinking "juice." They won't be too hard to deal with like this. I look over and see lots of sacks piled over in the corner on the back wall. Jackpot. As I inch forward a small rock falls from the ceiling and hits one of the gang members on the head.

The thug rubs their head before looking up at me, fear flashing across his face. "G-Guys." The man tries to spurt out but I lunge down before he can say anything more. I slam the guy and three other gang members surrounding him to the ground as I land. "Sorry, did I crash your party?" I tease them before standing tall and looking at the other men in the room.

Everyone else in the room turns towards me and charges to attack me in their drunken state, clumsily drawing their weapons. "Care to dance, boys?" I ask as they lunge at me. With ease I dodge their attacks with my new speed and reflexes, weaving through a sea of waving swords. One sword comes down to strike me but I quickly draw a katana to block it.

I push my attacker back and shoot a Crystal shard at him. The man looks to me in fear as the Crystal starts to grow and encase his torso and legs, before falling to the ground. My eyes glow purple and I turn to the other gang members, smiling under my mask. I become a blur of movement, blocking, disarming and encasing the other fifteen men in Crystal. Once all of them are trapped in my Crystal casings I use my powers to make all of the men rise before pinning the trapped men to the walls.

Every gang member struggles to get free but then can't. It's Clearstone, it's indestructible to man. "Had a great time everyone. Good effort. I'll free you tomorrow when I bring the village guard here." I say as I gather up the stolen goods and leave the cave. I exit the cave, noticing the guards still unconscious before I make my way down and through the forest.

After returning the villages' treasures and helping imprison the gang the next day, my phone started to buzz in my pocket. As I pull it out, I look to see who's calling me and smile brightly when I see Lloyd's name on my screen. I answer it and put the phone to my ear as I exit the village. "Wow, Master Lloyd actually called me. Usually I just get calls from P.I.X.A.L...But you are a welcome change." I hear Lloyd chuckling but he sounds a lot different.

"Good to hear from you too, (Y/n). I've missed you." A deep and suave voice tells me. I immediately blush. What the heck happened to his voice? "Is that really you, love? You sound—" Hot, I think to myself before continuing, "—different." Lloyd chuckles again, probably rubbing the back of his neck now in embarrassment. "Um, yeah. Is it weird?" Lloyd asks nervously. "No, I like it." I say sweetly into the phone.

"Um, thanks." Lloyd says, embarrassment clear in his voice. I chuckle at him being all cute over the phone. "As much fun as it is teasing you, I'm guessing you didn't call me just to chat." I point out. "You're right. I need you to get to Ninjago City. Something has happened and I need the whole team on this." Lloyd tells me, determination in his voice. "I'm on my way then," I say as I hop onto my new rover.

"It'll be good to see everyone again, especially you, sunshine." I coo over the phone. "Yeah it will. We have a lot to catch up on." He says lovingly into my ear. "I'll hold you to that, Greenie. See you soon." I tell him. "Bye." He says before hanging up. I put my phone back in my pocket before revving my engines and zooming through the lush and emerald forest. The green reminds me of Lloyd's eyes and how I can't wait to see them again.

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P.I.X.A.L.'s coordinates led me to Borg Tower and I made my way up to the floor she indicated. Nya, Jay, and Cole were already there and talking with each other. I beamed with delight as I walked towards them. "Hey, guys! Long time no see" I call out, grinning brightly. The three Ninja turn to me and smile back. "(Y/n)!" Nya calls out running to me and tackling me in a hug, which I quickly return. "It's so good to see you!" She says with delight. "Haha, it's good to see you too Nya. It's been too long." I tell her, holding her hands as we pull away from our hug.

"Tell me about it! Who knows when we would have seen each other next if Lloyd didn't call us back." Jay says as he walks up to us. We fist bump, making a big explosion sound with our mouths, causing all of us to laugh. Jay then puts an arm around Nya and kisses her check. While they do that Cole scoops me up in his classic bear hug. "Ah. How've you been, gem head?" Cole asks happily, squeezing me. If it wasn't for my own superstrength I don't think I'd survive Cole's hugs.

"Better than you, ya big boulder." I tease, causing Cole to laugh and place me back on the ground. "How'd the search in the mountains go?" I ask my raven-haired friend. Cole sighs. "Lousy. Another false lead." Cole tells me. "Yeah and Cole pissed off a bunch of monks. Those guys were so angry." Jay chimes in. "It was Jay's fault." Cole whispers. Nya and I laugh and Jay scoffs in protest. "Wha-. Hey!" He whines.

"'Sup everyone!" A familiar voice calls out. Our resident hothead strides in behind Zane looking cocky as ever. I kinda missed it. "Well aren't you a sight for sore eyes." I say sarcastically. "Oh, come on (Y/n). I know you missed me." Kai teases, sending me a wink. I just roll my eyes and smile at his boastful nature. He never changes. Jay and Cole come and nudge Kai before hugging him tightly.

"Good to see you, Zane. How's it been?" I say, approaching the nindroid. "Much better, (Y/n). How did your mission go?" Zane asks kindly. "Oh, you know, fought a gang, returned stolen goods, the usual." I joke, causing to Zane chuckle. "How about your mission with Kai?" I ask him. "Very well. The Mechanic has been put on Ice." Zane proudly states. I chuckle at his pun. Cole comes over and gives Zane a punch in the arm. I look over and see Nya laughing at Jay who has a bamboo hat for some reason.

My attention shifts when I hear the door open behind me. I turn and see Lloyd walk in and I start to beam. He's changed, his hair is longer and more styled, his body has grown stronger, and he seems to have grown a few inches in height. It doesn't matter how he has changed. He's still Lloyd, and he'll always be golden to me. "Hey, there he is. You're late." Kai says to Lloyd as he runs to him and gives him a fistbump.

"Kai was late too, if it is any consolation." Zane chimes in. Kai looks away and shakes his head as he says this. I cover my mouth, chuckling at him. "Thanks for meeting me here. It's been a while since we've all been under one roof." Lloyd says in a relaxed tone. He seems relieved we are here. I still can't get over that voice though. Nya and I share a look and giggle while Cole nudges Jay beside us, all of us with wide smiles. "What?" Lloyd asks in confusion. "Are we gonna talk about it?" Jay asks looking between us four and then back to Lloyd.

"Talk about what?" Lloyd wonders, still not knowing what is going on. Cole speaks up. "Your voice, it's—" "Lower." Zane teases, lowering his own voice with his modulator. Lloyd looks at us and then at me with a confused look. I tilt my head in agreement and smile. Lloyd gives me a smirk, his shoulders relaxing a little. Kai walks over to the blonde, surprising him a bit. "Sounds like our little ninja's growing up." Kai jests while rubbing Lloyds hair. He laughs and pats Lloyd's back in support. 

"Leave him alone." Nya scolds Kai. She sighs before asking Lloyd, "Any word from your mother?" "Not since she went searching for Master Wu. I don't know where she is." Lloyds tells us, walking past us. I walk up to him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry. She's a tough lady, she'll be back soon enough." I say, trying to console him. "And so will Wu." Cole adds on. 

"Not everyone comes back, Cole." Lloyd solemnly says, turning to stand before us, pulling out a BorgPad. "But that isn't why I called you here. I called you because of this." Lloyd states showing us the BorgPad. On the screen is a stylized version of the face of Lloyd's dad, when he was Lord Garmadon. "Your father? Lord Garmadon?" Cole exclaims. 

"After poking around, I've learned it's the symbol to—" Lloyd starts. "The Sons of Garmadon," Zane interjects, "A mysterious criminal syndicate growing in prominence in Ninjago City." Zane informs us. Lloyd walks towards us putting the tablet away. "Seventy two hours ago, they stole a powerful relic from Cyrus Borg. Some mask—" "Not some mask." A mysterious man says as he walks into the room. 

This man is dressed in elegant green robes with gold accents, his black hair is pulled back and tied behind him. His worn face framed in a peppered beard, and an eyepatch draped across his head. "The Oni Mask. There are only three in existence." The man states. The color drains from my face when hearing the word Oni. "Whoa, I'm confused. How can there be three masks when you just said it's the only mask?" Jay asks in confusion. 

"Not only, Jay. Oni." Nya explains. "Oni are beings from another Realm." I chime in. "Indeed. They are said to be all-powerful beings. Demons that predate Ninjago." Zane adds on. I look away in shame when I hear Zane say "demons." Mystake's voice rings in my mind: "You choose who you want to be." I am not a demon. "Each mask embodies one of the three Oni warlords. If all three masks are united, whomever owns them will wield tremendous power." The mystery man warns us, his back turned to us as he looks at the other display cases in the room. 

"Ninja, this is Mr. Hutchins. Master at Arms and Counsel to the Royal Family. I've asked him here." Lloyd tells us, gesturing to the green-clad man. "The Royal Family?" Kai asks in surprise. "We have one of those?" I say, thinking aloud. "Apologies if you aren't familiar. They honor their privacy, as they do for the safety of Ninjago." Mr. Hutchins explains. "I thought that was our job?" I whisper to Jay who just shrugs. 

"Let me guess, they have an Oni Mask too." Cole reckons. "Two? Now there's two?" Jay exclaims, prompting Nya to cover his mouth. "The Emperor will be delivering a public speech tomorrow, and I'm worried the Sons of Garmadon may try to steal the mask. We could use your assistance, that is, if you can keep a low profile." Mr. Hutchins states. "We are ninja." Zane steps forward before his form shifts to a more normal version of himself. "No one will know we are there." Zane says proudly. "Just let us know where and when." Lloyd tells the man, giving him a respectful bow.

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At the Palace the Emperor is giving his speech in front of a large crowd. Many reporters and cameras populate the already dense crowd, sending the message out across Ninjago. "As many of you know, my family has kept a private life. We aren't interested in meddling with current affairs. But as crime has risen, so has our concern. So it is time to step out of the shadows, and into the light." The Emperor says with a smile as he walks to the podium.

The crowd cheers, Lloyd and I looking out over the crowd as we stand guard on the stage. "I don't like this one bit." Nya says over the comms. I easily spot her within the crowd dressed in civilian clothes. "If the Royal Family likes their privacy, why give such a public speech?" Nya continues. "I think it's nice. They're reaching out to the people." Jay's voice chimes in my earpiece. "Why all the hate, sis? You just don't like getting gussied up?" Kai teases over comms.

"All that gold and glitter is for show. The Royal Family are figure heads. They don't have any real power, what purpose do they have?" Nya questions. "Their purpose is to be protected, as do all of our traditions." Zane adds on from his roost overhead. "I believe Master Lloyd has spotted something of interest." Zane calls out over comms. Looking over to Lloyd from across the stage and I follow his gaze to...The Princess. He's staring at the princess. I try not to focus on that and keep to the mission.

Unfortunately my teammates don't share that interest. "Looks like he's got an eye for the Princess." Kai points out. "I guess green is her favorite color." Jay jests. I look at their position on the roof and see the three Ninja laughing. "You do know I can hear you, right?" Lloyd asks over comms, placing a hand to his ear. "Give Lloyd a break, guys. We have a job to do." I tell them through my earpiece as the Emperor continues to speak. "...and stay united." The Emperor finishes and the crowd cheers.

Lloyd's voice rings in my earpiece "Be on lookout." My attention focuses on the crowd analyzing every movement the crowd-goers make. Lloyd and I both see a balloon float up with the Sons of Garmadon logo on it. "I see a—" Lloyd starts but loud pops, like gunshots, go off in the crowd, causing the people to scream and panic. At the same time Lloyd runs and tackles the Princess and Empress to the ground and I summon a large Crystal wall up from the ground in front of the stage.

"Is the threat clear?" Lloyd calls out. "Huh. Firecrackers. False alarm." Nya tells us over comms, causing me to lower the wall. Mr. Hutchins leads the family inside the Palace Gates as I walk to Lloyd. I see the Princess tell Hutchins something before catching me staring. She sends a smile and a small wave. I wave back as the gates close in front of her. Mr. Hutchins then walks to us with a sigh. "You protected the Royal Family, you have their gratitude." He says. The other five Ninja join us onstage.

Cole gives Lloyd a high five as we all pull down our hoods. "You are invited to be their guests in the palace." Hutchins tells us, almost begrudgingly as he bows. "Heh. No one ever gets invited into the palace. Are you sure they meant us?" Jay questions, looking to us. "It's just a palace. Once you've seen one, you've seen them all." Nya says nonchalantly. "We'd be honored." Lloyd answers Mr. Hutchins. Both of them bowing to each other.

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Later that night we return to the palace and wait in front of the palace doors. As the doors open we are met with the face of grumpy Hutchins. "Welcome to the Royal Palace, also known as the Palace of Secrets." Hutchins tells us while escorting us in. "Ooh, why do they call it the Palace of Secrets?" Kai wonders, taking an interest. "If I were to tell you that, then it wouldn't be a secret, now would it?" Hutchins replies as he closes the doors behind us.

All of us marvel at the gorgeous interior of the palace with red pillars and frames, hanging lanterns, and a gilded floor all making up a very majestic scene. "Look at that." Kai says in awe. "I already feel royal." Jay exclaims. "It's beautiful." Zane states. "Yeah, I could really get used to living in a place like this." Cole gawks. "Well, don't. We're only here as guests, then back to protecting Ninjago." Lloyd turns to us, his voice having a serious tone. "Hmph. Too much gold in my opinion." Nya adds on as she looks over the place.

"Come on, even you have to admit it's kinda pretty." I say to Nya, giving her a nudge. "No, it's gaudy." She retorts. "You have a real issue with royalty." I say with a chuckle. "Just with privileged snobs." Nya huffs under her breath. We reach another set of doors and as Hutchins opens them we see the Royal Family sitting at the far end of the room. Hutchins bows before entering the room and giving an introduction.

"I present to you the exalted Emperor and Empress of Ninjago, and their daughter, the Jade Princess—Princess Harumi." We walk up to the foot of the elevated thrones in a single line and give a deep bow. Well all of us but Nya. Lloyd gives her a tap and she begrudgingly bows as well. "We are honored by your presence." The Emperor tells us, as he and his family bow to us in turn. "The honor is all ours." Lloyd says respectfully before bowing again.

The princess walks down to us. "I have read much about you. Your heroics will surely become legend." The Princess says as she stands before us, holding her hands timidly. We bow to her before she raises her hands commanding us to rise. The Princess then walks to Kai at the end of our little line. "Kai, the hothead who acts without question." She states. Kai smiles and gives a quick bow. The Princess moves to Cole.

"Cole, the rock and foundation of the team." Cole smiles and gives a quick bow. She moves to Jay. "Jay, the joker whose mouth is as fast as lightning." Jay gives a quick bow. "Zane, the cold and calculating android." Zane bows to her as she says this. "Nindroid, Your Highness." His hologram disguise fades as he corrects her, showing his metal-plated skin. "(Y/n), one of the newest members. Forged from pressure into a skilled fighter."

"Thank you, Your Highness." I smile and bow. The Princess smiles at me for a moment too long before looking away in embarrassment and moving toward Nya. "And Nya, the girl." Nya had started to bow but gave her an angry look when she said "the girl." The Water Ninja glared daggers at the Jade Princess as she finished her bow, but the Princess hadn't finished. "The girl I've wanted to be ever since I first heard about her. With her mastery of Water and her skill that could rival any master." Nya stands in surprise at the Princess' compliment before smiling and placing a hand on her hip.

"I like her." Nya states before bowing to her. "And Master Lloyd, the Green Ninja." She starts while walking towards Lloyd. He bows to her as she does this. "The youngest but most powerful protector. The chosen one." Lloyds face makes pained expressions with each title. "I too have lost my parents..." Princess Harumi trails off solemnly. I raise an eyebrow at this with the Emperor and Empress in the room.

Jay seems to be equally as confused, making an "Uh, heh," sound looking back and forth between them and Princess Harumi. "...but we're both not without family, hmm?" Harumi finishes saying to Lloyd. The Empress explains saying, "We adopted Harumi and raised her as our own." "When her parents passed away." The Emperor adds on with a sad tone. "Thank you for inviting us into your home." Lloyd tells them, giving another bow. "It wasn't us. It was our daughter." The Emperor reveals. "And she would like you to stay with us, until the threat to our throne is over." The Empress tells us.

"These are troubling times, and as long as we have an Oni Mask, we fear our lives are in jeopardy." The Emperor states. "The masks must never be reunited. Please say yes." Harumi pleads to us. All of the Ninja look to Lloyd on what to do. "Then you have our help." Lloyd says with a bow. We all smile at the decision. "Great. Then Mr.Hutchins can show you the palace." The Princess gestures to the finely-dressed man. "Yes!" Cole says, nudging Jay.

Hutchins guides us through the bright red halls of the Palace. "While you are in our service," he says to us as we walk past some tables against a nearby wall, each garnished with a bunch of fancy looking food. "You will have full access to the complimentary royal buffet. Anything you want is at your disposal. Exotic fruits, assorted vegetables, scones, and all-you-can-eat cake." He states monotonously, gesturing to each section of the buffet as he explains.

The last part has Jay and I looking at Cole teasingly, while Hutchins turns his back toward us. "Ah, thank you, but I gave up sweets. My body is a temple." Cole responds. "Since when?" I ask, a bit surprised. Cole loves cakes. "Ever since Master Wu went missing, Cole has been a real party pooper." Jay exclaims. "Party pooper?" Zane asks innocently, looking very confused. "I'll explain later." Jay whispers to the nindroid. 

"The palace is equipped with secret passages to get anywhere fast." Hutchins tells us as we continue to tour, passing large ornate bookshelves. "Oh, so that's why they call it the Palace of Secrets." Kai says in realization. "Yes, but as to the locations of these secret passages, only the Royal Family knows." Hutchins replies. "Sure. You mean like right...here?" Kai asks him, pulling a book from a bookcase. Nothing happens. 

"Nope." Hutchins answers. "Or here?" Kai asks, pulling a bunch of books from the shelves. "Not there." Hutchins tells him. "Or right here?" Kai asks, yet again tossing more books to the ground. "Nope." Hutchins says. We watch as this continues on for another few minutes until most of the books from the bookcase are sprawled across the floor.

"Here?" Kai asks after pulling a big book above him down and letting it fall to the ground. "No." Hutchins says in his composed manner, though I can tell he is frustrated. "Uh, haha. We'll clean up after ourselves." Cole tells Hutchins. With that, Hutchins turns and walks further down the hallway. Zane, Cole, Kai and I start to put the books back and I can hear Nya whispering to Lloyd and Jay. 

"Anyone else think there's something a little off about this guy?" Nya asks them. "He's holding something back." Lloyd admits, eyeing Hutchins with suspicion. Once the books are fixed we all run down the hall to Hutchins, who was waiting for us. "And finally, the reason for your protection: the Mask of Deception." The man says, gesturing to the center of the room. 

An ornate display case holds a creepy orange mask, with white designs lining the grinning mask. The mask seemed to look over us with its frightening gaze. Almost like it's following us with its eyes. Maybe it's just a trick of the light in this dark room, yet it still sends chills down my spine. I wonder if that's how Oni really looks. Glad I didn't turn out like that. "Ugh. A face only a mother could love." Kai groans

"Why would anyone want that?" Kai asks, after going to inspect the case. "That's up to us to figure out." Lloyd replies. "Just being in the same room with it gives me the heebie-jeebies." Jay chimes in, hiding behind Lloyd. "If this is the Mask of Deception, what was stolen from Borg Industries?" Nya asks, turning to Hutchins who stands behind us. "The Mask of Vengeance." He answers. "And who has the third one?" Cole wonders. 

"No one knows the location of the Mask of Hatred, but my sensors tell me it won't be lost for long." Zane informs us. "Zane is correct. Though no one has found the third mask, it has given the Royal Family little resolve..." Hutchins starts. My attention is drawn away as I see Lloyd peek into a room before backing away looking embarrassed. What did he see? Who's room is that? 

I shake those thoughts away as I tune back into what Hutchins is saying. I don't need to know everything my boyfriend does. That's not the kind of person I am. "...for we know dark forces are looking to acquire it. And that's why we need eyes on it at all times." Hutchins explains to us. "Don't worry we're ninja. We're experts at this kind of thing." Kai tells him confidently.

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Everyone else went to patrol the Palace and its grounds soon after, while I stayed behind with the Mask of Deception since I volunteered for the first watch. After a few minutes of pacing the room I see a white-haired head poke out of a nearby room, looking up and down the halls. "Do you need something, Your Highness?" I ask out of curiosity. She jumps a little in place after being acknowledged. "Oh, (Y/n). You startled me." She says with a slight chuckle. I notice her makeup has been wiped off and her hair pulled into a messy bun. "Sorry, Princess." I say, sending her a kind smile.

"Please, call me Harumi," She says, smiling back at me. "Very well, Harumi." I replied . She opens her door and walks up to me, still in her regal attire. "Guarding the Mask?" Harumi asks me. I nod, as we both look at the display case. "I sometimes like to sneak out here and look at it. There's something so interesting about it." Harumi explains, glancing over to me. "It is quite interesting. Though a bit creepy." I add on.

"Hey, sometimes a little scary is good. Makes life more entertaining." She states, giving me a nudge. I chuckle. "Besides, there's so much history to it. I find the Oni fascinating. Don't you agree?" Harumi turns to me. "I guess, If you like that sort of thing." I told her. "Not a fan?" She asks. "No, I'll leave that to the historians. I like something a little more active, with jumping and spinning" I tease. "Well as they say, don't knock it till you try it." She jokes. Our attention turns to some guards walking through the corridor.

"Geez, you guys have guards everywhere." I state. Harumi sighs and gives a nod, though seeming a little down. "I'm guessing you're not a fan?" I ask. "Heh, you'd be right.....I get why my parents do all this. It's for our safety, especially mine, but I feel like—" Harumi trails off. "Like they keep you from who you really are?" I say, finishing her thought. Harumi looks at me with surprise before looking away.

"It's...getting late. Sorry for interrupting your watch." She says, walking away from me. "Its no problem." I say, smiling at her. As she reaches her door she turns back to look at me. "Thank you, (Y/n). For the talk." Harumi says with a warm smile, "Anytime, Harumi." I tell her, returning the smile. With that she goes back into her room and slowly closes the door. What a nice girl.

The rest of my shift goes by smoothly until Lloyd comes to relieve me of my shift. "Hey," He says in a suave tone. "Hey," I say back to him as he walks towards me. "Any trouble so far?" Lloyd asks, standing beside me. We both look at The Mask of Deception just sitting there. "Nope, it's been a quiet night." I noted. He shoots me one of his classic smirks. 

"I'm glad to hear that." He replies beforing slowly reaching out to my hand. Our fingers intertwine and our eyes meet. We start to walk around the outside of the room slowly. Just enjoying each other's presence after being apart so long. "I'm sorry. I wasn't able to give you a proper greeting back at Borg Industries." He says softly, his voice almost rumbling with the new change. I love how it sounds. 

"Well, we were whisked to the Palace on Ninja business and the others were there." I point out, giving his hand a squeeze. Lloyd chuckles lightly and looks at me with those emerald eyes, pink spread across his cheeks. He looks around before pulling me behind a pillar. "Well they aren't here now." He whispers seductively, pinning me against the back of the pillar. "Lloyd, we're on duty." I mutter. 

"What's one more secret in the Palace of Secrets? Besides, I haven't seen you in months." Lloyd says in a hushed tone. His hand cups my face as he says this, his thumb gliding over my bottom lip. He leans closer to me and presses his lips against mine. Sparks fly when we touch. Something just clicks into place in me with Lloyd. It feels right. I haven't had this in so long. I've missed this. 

My eyes flutter closed and my hands run through his blonde hair as he continues to kiss me. Time stands still and everything else fades away. It feels like energy is rushing through us, pulsing, wanting to connect. I don't want it to end. I could stay like this with Lloyd forever, I think before I pull away slowly. But we can't. "W-we should get to work." I whisper. Lloyd chuckles quietly.

"Heh, you're right. We'll catch up another time then." Lloyd says still, cupping my face. I lean into his palm and hold his hand before pulling it down and kissing his cheek. "Another time, sunshine." I whisper to him. I start to walk off trying to seem cool and calm, but I can feel my heart still beating fast from that kiss. I look back and see Lloyd watching me leave with a loving grin and a small wave. I wave back before going to patrol the Palace corridors for the rest of the night.

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3rd Person POV:

The next morning, the Ninja were training in the Palace courtyard and everyone was talking about last night. Lloyd and Harumi had snuck out of the Palace together the night before to give food to the poor along the canal. (Y/n) has been in a dour mood since hearing of it this morning. He was now practicing his hand to hand combat with a practice dummy while the others messed with Lloyd while training. 

Lloyd tries to attack Cole with his Blade but is blocked by Cole's Hammer. "Moonlit walks on the canal, sharing food—Ah!" Cole says, swinging his hammer at Lloyd. The Green Ninja leaps behind him. "Sounds a lot like a date." Cole states before Lloyd tries to attack him from the side. Cole blocks and points Lloyd's sword to the ground. "It was not a date." Lloyd corrects him. (Y/n) glances at Lloyd when he says this, before shaking his thoughts from his head. 

(Y/n) turns his attention back to the practice dummy in an effort to try tuning out his friends and the clanging of their weapons. "Focus on your movements (Y/n)," he tells himself. "A date: a social or romantic engagement. Often involving a meal or an intimate setting." Zane defines it in a joyful tone while dodging Kai's attacks with ease "Haha! You can't argue with a Nindroid." Jay chimes in. (Y/n)'s attacks increase in fury hearing them talk about this. 

"Look, if you really like this girl, you're gonna have to step up your game." Kai advises, before he performs Spinjitzu and weaves around Zane in a tornado of Fire. "What do you mean game?" Lloyd asks in confusion. "It means one's ability to charm, " Zane clarifies before continuing. "You need to convince her why you are the most logical mate." The beats of (Y/n)'s palm to the arm posts ring louder and louder across the courtyard. 

"If you want to impress her, you gotta act tough. Like, flex your muscles and stuff. Break things." Cole tells him before performing Spinjitzu and breaking one of the training dummies. "Pfft. No way." Jay chimes in. "You gotta make her laugh. Just ask Nya. She couldn't resist my sense of humor." Jay adds on. Nya then pins Jay to the ground and sigh beforing saying, "It's...an acquired taste."

The wood on the training post starts to make a cracking sound with each forceful hit (Y/n) makes. "Don't listen to them. You gotta act cool. Like you don't even care." Kai says to him. "But...I do." Lloyd says. "A-ha! So you admit it." Jay exclaims. (Y/n) jumps up and side-kicks the post with all his strength. It breaks it in half and is sent flying at the other training post, breaking that one as well. The others look toward the broken post and then at (Y/n) in surprise.

"I'm...going to get more training dummies." (Y/n) mumbles, quickly walking off. His face red in embarrassment. "What's with him?" Jay wonders as (Y/n) enters the Palace. "I'm going to go check on him." Nya states before turning to Lloyd, "But Lloyd, just be yourself. It's so much easier than trying to be someone you're not." Nya advises before going after her friend. Lloyd seems to ponder that fro a moment, looking off in the direction (Y/n) walked off before Cole swung around at Lloyd again with his hammer.

Meanwhile, Nya walks through the Palace corridors going immediately to the armory where they got the training posts, but (Y/n) wasn't there. "(Y/n)?" Nya calls out, but gets no response. She continues through the Palace calling out for the (h/c) boy. "(Y/n)? Where are you?" She yells, getting more and more concerned. "(Y/n)?" She shouts as she walks down the hallway. Nya turns and enters the next room to search. 

The room is dark with shelves lining the walls and bookcases filling up the center. Geez, another library? Rich snobs, Nya thought while rolling her eyes. "(Y/n)?" She asks softly as she makes her way through the room, looking around each bookcase. As Nya rounds the final bookcase she sees the (r/c) Ninja and her heart breaks a little at the sight. (Y/n) is huddled in the corner holding his legs close to his chest and hiding his face. Unbeknownst to Nya his fists are clenched harshly on the fabric of his Ninja robes, small claws poking through them.

Nya slowly approaches (Y/n) before sitting next to him. She places a gentle hand on his back, and (Y/n)'s claws retract from her touch before she can see them. "Are you okay?" She utters quietly. (Y/n) turns his head to her, his eye peeking out from behind his hair and arm. (Y/n) then looks away from her with no answer. "(Y/n), what happened? Please tell me." Nya asks, in a comforting tone. (Y/n) leans his head back on the bookshelf behind him, looking forward instead of at Nya. 

Thoughts are running through the Ninja's head on how to tell her without outing Lloyd. "I like Lloyd." (Y/n) says quietly, closing his eyes. Nya looks at him with a worried expression before hugging him. "I'm sorry, (Y/n). I didn't know. That was really dumb of us to do in front of you." Nya tells him. (Y/n) hugs her back tightly, resting his face on her shoulder. 

Both of them then lean back on the bookshelf, sitting close together. Nya lays her head on (Y/n)'s head as he leans on her shoulder. "I don't even know why I'm jealous. It's stupid." (Y/n) mumbles solemnly. "It's ok to feel that way." Nya tells him. "I made a fool of myself." (Y/n) mutters quietly. Nya grabs (Y/n)'s hand and gives it a squeeze. 

"Listen (Y/n), you are amazing. You are an awesome Ninja, incredibly creative and sarcastic, and a total badass. You are my best friend and I love you. You didn't make a fool of yourself." She tells him comfortingly. "Lloyd will see how great you are, and if he doesn't you will find someone who does." 

(Y/n) squeeze her hand back before turning to look at her. "Thanks, Nya." He says, sending her a smile. She nudges him with her arm. "Now you ready to head back out there?" she asks with a kind smirk. (Y/n) nods. "Yeah."

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(Y/n)'s POV:

All the Ninja were out guarding the Palace again. Cole, Kai, and Nya patrolled the grounds and the entrance while Lloyd, Jay, and I were spread throughout the Palace on patrol. My mind went back to what Nya said and took comfort in that and the fact that Lloyd was with me, so I should focus on my job. Not worry about stupid things. We are good. I am good and it didn't mean anything.

I am pulled out of my thoughts by Cole as he chimes in on the comms. "Guys, we've got a big problem. Bla— sap—There's Bl— Sap—I saw a—" Cole cuts in and out. "Cole, you're not coming in. You have a bad signal." Lloyd chimes in the earpiece. "We gotta get everyone out of here. The whole palace is rigged to explode. It was Hutchins!" Cole shouts over comms.

My eyes widened in response. I'm right around the corner to the Princess's rooms and the Mask of Deception display. Quickly changing direction, I race down the corridor. As I turn the corner into the Princess's room she looks at me in surprise. Before either of us can say anything, explosions go off around us. In a split second I summon a Crystal dome around us as fire and debris crash all around.

Harumi screams and runs to me as I struggle to hold the dome up. All my focus is on keeping the dome up and us alive. I fall to my knees under the weight of the debris on the dome. "(Y/n)!" Harumi screams in concern. "I'm fine." I groan. "We just need to hold on until the others find us." I tell her. Over the crackling fire we hear noises get louder and seemingly closer to us. "Is anyone there? Help!" Harumi calls out. 

"Princess? Is that you?" A familiar voice answers back. "Zane! Thank goodness. We need your help." Harumi tells the nindroid. "Don't worry Princess I'm on it." Zane states. The fire and debris over the dome start to freeze over. With a loud thud, which I assume was a kick from Zane, the debris starts cracks apart before falling away to the ground. Harumi and I look through the Crystal to be met with the sapphire eyes of Zane, looking extremely relieved.

With that I lower the dome and fall to the ground. Harumi catches me and helps me up to Zane. "I'm glad you are both safe. Now come with me. We need to get you out of here, Princess." Zane says with a stern expression. We make our way through the debris and fire, Harumi still helping me stand, while Zane guards us both. My strength is returning but very slowly. "Thank you, Princess." I quietly tell her, causing her to smile kindly at me. "You can thank me when we both get out of this in one piece, ok?" She teases causing me to chuckle and give her a nod.

Down the corridor, we see Lloyd and Hutchins who are fighting some SOG thug with a motorcycle, dressed in purple and a ponytail falling from her helmet. Lloyd tackles her off her bike, but she gets right back up and holds a sai threateningly over a fallen Hutchins. Zane acts and does Spinjitzu, lunging at the attacker and freezing her in Ice. With a kick the frozen biker is flying into a wall, a muffled wail can be heard from her. 

Harumi and I approach our fallen friends and I help Hutchins up as she helps Lloyd. "You're okay." Lloyd says to us, relieved, though he is looking at Harumi. "But what about the mask?" Harumi asks, concern ringing in her voice. "We need to get you to safety. The others will protect the Mask." I say to Harumi. Lloyd and Hutchins give a nod in agreement. The four of us make our way through the palace dodging attacks and falling debris. 

"This way. Come on." Hutchins shouts as he guides us through the palace. He leads us into the throne room. Looking around I see no other exits beside the one we just came through. "Why did you bring us here?" I ask Hutchins as we follow him to the thrones. Before he can answer, Nya chimes in over the comms. "Uh, I think my brother just destroyed the Mask of Deception." Nay winces in our ear. "What?" Lloyd exclaims.

"That one was a fake. I procured the real one from the vaults below." Hutchins tells us before pulling the orange mask out from behind one of the thrones. "A fake?" Harumi says in surprise. Hutchins lowers his head to the Princess. "Forgive me, Your Highness, it is the Mask of Deception. I wasn't sure if I could trust the Ninja. But I do now." Hutchins looks to us and smiles. 

Another explosion rocks the room and we hear more gang members clamoring down the hall. Hutchins hits some button and the Emperor's throne moves forward, revealing a staircase underneath it. Hutchins then pushes the Oni Mask into Lloyds chest. "Take it. And get the Princess out of here!" He orders. "But what about my parents?" Harumi asks him. 

"I'll find them." Hutchins says with a smile, determination in his voice. "I was wrong about you." Lloyd states. "Go!" Hutchins shouts. "(Y/n), come on." Lloyd tells me as he and Harumi make their way down the secret passage. "Keep each other safe." I call out to them. "What?" Lloyd asks, looking back up to me. His expression shifts from confusion to shock before the throne closes over the passageway, my hand on the button. 

I turn to Hutchins and he looks just as surprised. "We need to find the Royal Family." I say drawing a sword. Hutchins nods and knowing there is no time to waste, we race out of the Throne room into the flaming wreckage. With hallways teeming with the Sons of Garmadon. But we will find them. We have to.

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Cole helps carry me up the roof as I put pressure on my side where I got stabbed. All of us are in rough shape and in pretty bad spirits. I look back and see much of the Royal Palace in ruin, smoke rising from most of it. The roar of engines approaches overhead and the Ninja and I look up to see Destiny's Bounty flying in for a pick up. Kai, Zane, and Jay make their way up first as Cole and Nya help me climb the ship's side.

After we all make our way to the deck of the bridge we are met with an expectant Lloyd and Harumi. Lloyd looks at all of us as we huddle around them. All of us bow our heads and defeat and I just look away, not able to meet Lloyd's gaze. I failed. The Princess looks at us. "The Emperor and Empress? Where is Hutchins? Did they—" Nya steps forward a solemn look on her face. "I'm sorry, Princess. They didn't make it." Nya says regretfully. 

Harumi turns and looks to the ruins of her former home, sirens wailing in the distance. "What about the mask?" I hear Kai quietly ask Lloyd. From the silence I can tell he wasn't successful either. "I promise you, we'll find the people responsible for this." Kai tells the Princess. She turns back to us and Lloyd goes to her side, placing a hand on her back in support. I clench my teeth at the sight. "Once again, I am alone." Harumi huffs sadly. 

"You're with us now. And we'll make sure to find out who is behind all this." Lloyd says gently to Harumi, all of us huddling in with them. Cole still holds me up as I hold my side. "They are not going to get away." Lloyd states, determined and angry as we all are at this tragedy. "Get us out of here guys." Lloyd calmly orders. Zane, Kai and Jay nod before going to the bridge's controls. Hitting a few buttons, the ship zooms across the sky, away from Ninjago City and the Royal Palace. 

"Cole, help me down to the room please." I quietly tell my friend. "No sweat, (Y/n). I got you." Cole says, guiding me down to the ship's quarters. I can't believe how so much changed in a matter of hours. So much was lost. My face must show my anguish because Cole turns to me, looking worried. "Hey, you did your best (Y/n). Hutchins knew that." He tries to comfort me. 

"It didn't save him. My best didn't save him or the rest of the Royal Family." I groan, wincing at the pain from my stab wound as we walk down the steps. "We can't save everyone. We're only human." Cole states. I keep quiet at that, knowing the statement doesn't entirely apply to me. As we reach our sleeping quarters Cole opens the door for me. 

Taking my arm off Cole's shoulder, I lean on the door frame and make my way inside. I turn back to Cole, who still looks concerned. "Are you going to be ok?." He asks in a gentle tone. "I will be." I answer, giving a weak smile. "Things will get better, (Y/n). I promise." He says, trying to be optimistic. "I hope so. Good night, Cole." I say to him before closing my door.

Walking slowly to the otherside of the room, I open the top drawer of our shared dresser and pull out the first aid kit. Wincing at each stroke, I gently start to wipe away the blood from my wound. My attention shifts to the soft glow coming from the third drawer, my drawer. Reaching in, I pull out a yellow Crystal, glowing and pulsing with Reversal power. I debate with myself on whether I should, sighing and shutting my eyes.

I concentrate on the Crystal in my hand and slowly wave it over my wound. A little temporal power slips out of the Crystal and touches my wound. When it does I feel it slowly reform, though it isn't exactly comfortable. Looking down, all that's left is a bit of blood on my smooth skin. Like I was never even hurt. I look at the Time Crystal in my hand, my grip tightening on it.

Quietly I say to myself: "I'm not losing anyone else." Wrapping the shard in two of my spare gis, I stash it in the back corner of my drawer. After changing into a new gi and shutting my drawer I head to my bed, ready to end this awful day. One last time, I mutter, "I'm not losing anyone else," before my eyes flutter shut.

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Chapter Text

(Y/n)'s POV:

On the bridge, I lean against a banister looking out over the lower decks of the ship, mostly focusing on Lloyd and Harumi. I know I said I was over this and wasn't going to be jealous but it's harder than I thought. Maybe it's my Oni nature that is making me like this since Mystake said they were very territorial creatures. And I know Lloyd likes me, but he never said he wasn't attracted to other genders. What if he likes her? 

The greenies start to make their way up to the bridge and I walk over to the console Nya is at. Nya gives me a sad look and places a hand on my shoulder giving me a hopeful smile. I smirk back before typing away at the panel and help with what she's working on. I can tell Harumi and Lloyd are on deck as soon as Cole cracks a bad joke. "So, Harumi, looks like we're gonna be...roomies for a while." I roll my eyes at the bad pun, causing Nya to snort. I nudge her playfully and we get back to typing. 

Harumi steps forward, speaking to all of us. "You have all been so gracious to take me in since our palace was...taken away, and—" "You're safe with us." Jay assures her. "That assumption is not entirely justified, Jay. We know very little about the Sons of Garmadon's full capabilities." Zane points out. "We know nothing about them. Period." Kai states. "We do know they're after the three Oni Masks. Unfortunately, they already have two of them." Nya says, displaying the two known Oni Masks on the console screen before us. 

I look and see Lloyd and Harumi walking to join us, his arm around her shoulder, and both of them smiling. My vision goes purple for a second before I shake it off and tune back into the conversation. "P.I.X.A.L. scanned everywhere for the third mask, but it came up empty. It's as if...it never existed." "It could be shielded by its Oni power. We've seen such power displayed with the Mask of Vengeance by that SOG biker you guys faced." I suggest. "Ugh, don't remind me." Jay groans. 

"Well since we have no lead on the Masks, we need to focus on the person in charge of it all. A group this organized must have a leader." Lloyd states. "Maybe someone from our past?" Jay brings up. "Uh, forgive me, but is that...underwear?" Harumi asks with a tinge of disgust. My attention shifts as I see blue underwear quickly snatched from her hands. Jay chuckles nervously, hiding the underwear behind him. 

"We're usually more organized. Ahem. But our leader got lost in a time-stream..." Jay rambles. "Uh, they're Cole's." The Blue Ninja says, shifting the blame. "They're blue!" Cole exclaims. Kai chuckles. "You're lucky they're not yellow." The hothead says teasingly to Harumi. "Heh." Harumi huffs, trying for politeness while looking at Jay with a disgusted face. Lloyd expresses the same look behind her. 

"Uh, Nya, didn't we have a lead on the SOG?" I ask, trying to get away from this awkward topic "Yeah, the suspect captured at the heist of Borg Tower. I can stay behind with Harumi if you wanna press him on who he works for." Nya suggests. "The police have him in custody, but he has refused to talk. He is set for release today." P.I.X.A.L.'s voice informs us from the monitor. "Then if Johny Law can't get him to talk, perhaps Johny Ninja can?" Kai jests while cracking his knuckles. 

A chime goes off from his pocket and he pulls out his phone. As he checks the text, the Red Ninja's face matches his color. Kai gives a cough and rubs the back of his neck trying to act cool. "On second thought, how about you guys go on ahead I'll catch up." The others look to each other and back to him. "Ok...if you insist." Lloyd says with a shrug before walking off with the other three Ninja. 

I walk up to Kai and whisper, "Tell Skylor I said hi." I tease, shooting him a wink. Kai's face heats up again and he looks away, clearly caught. "Y-Yeah okay." He responds. I chuckle before sliding down the stair banister to join the others.

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Once we got to Ninjago City, Lloyd takes us on a slight detour from the police station. "Uh, I thought we were in a hurry to get to the police." Jay asks, confused. "A quick stop. If the perp won't talk, maybe we can get something to loosen his lips." Lloyd tells us as we make our way to the doorway of a shop with a familiar neon sign. "Mytake's Tea Shop. I wonder what magic tea she can brew up for us." Cole wonders. The tea shop's bell jingles at the open door. 

Upon entering, we see a woman with a bamboo coolie hat putting some objects on the shelves behind the counter. "Is Mystake here?" Lloyd asks her. "Never heard of her!" The woman barks defensively, causing me to chuckle. At this she turns and recognizes us. "Ooh! Apologies, young Lloyd Garmadon. I didn't recognize your voice. Oh, it's so good to see you again. It's been years." Mystake coos happily. "Hello, Mystake." Lloyd responds smiling. 

Her smile drops and she bows her head. "I'm sorry to hear about Master Wu. He was a dear friend." Mystake tells us. "Was? We haven't given up on him. We just have more urgent problems." Cole quickly corrects. Zane steps forward to speak. "We seek—" "The Tea of Truth!" Mystake dramatically says, causing most of us to jump. Not me, after training with her you start to get used to her antics, even enjoying them. 

"Wow. She's good." Zane observes. "But be forewarned...the truth can be...dangerous." She says ominously, ending with a sinister smile. I've missed her. "She's also creepy." Jay whispers, clutching onto Cole's buff arm. "Par for the course in a mystical tea shop, Jay." Cole points out. "I'll have a look in the back to see if I have any. But don't...touch...any...thing." She threatens before giving a small smile. 

"Like I said. Cree-pee." Jay says quietly. As she walks back through her bead curtain with the tea, her painting of the Oni and the Dragon catches my eye, and apparently Lloyd's as well. "Mystake, wait! That painting..." Lloyd exclaims. "Hm?" Mystake chirps before looking back over her shoulder. "Ah, yes. The Oni and the Dragon. But you are not ready for that tale." She warns. "Please. We need to know." Lloyd pleads. 

"It is a long tale. Do you have the time?" She asks, eyeing each in our group. "We only had time for a quick stop." Zane answers her. Lloyd quickly turns to them with the jar of tea leaves Mystake brought from the backroom. "Cole and Zane, go to the police with the Tea of Truth and find out who's giving the orders. Jay, (Y/n), and I will stay here to learn more." Lloyd tells them, handing them the tea. 

Cole and Zane quickly turn and walk out, Jay reaches out a hand for help, clearly not wanting to be in a "creepy" tea shop. I place a hand on his shoulder in comfort and offer a smile. He sighs and drops his head a bit as we follow Lloyd to the backroom. "Come, my childs. To know the tale, you must drink the tea." Mystake says ominously.

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We sit across from the painting and Mystake. She pours the tea she has been brewing for the last few minutes into our cups. Each of us takes a sip, the warm liquid soothing us as it goes down our throats. "Aah! Thank you for the tea. You were right, it really calmed my nerves." Jay tells Mystake gratefully. "I feel so..." He says in between sips. "...warm and fuzzy." "Good. Then the Tea of Enlightenment is working...to help you see the tale, the original tale, The Tale of the Oni and the Dragon." Mystake muses. 

Jay gasps. "You lied? Mystake, why would you do that? I thought we were friends." Jay exclaims. "Jay, we're in a magic tea shop. What did you think she was serving us?" I ask him. "Tea! Regular tea!" Jay answers, quite loudly. "What are we supposed to see?" Lloyd asks, sternly. "See...the beginning." She tells us before blowing the steam rising from her teapot. The effects of the Tea of Enlightenment seem to be kicking in because the painting starts to move and change. 

"Long before time had a name, there was the Realm of the Oni and the Dragon." Mystake started, two figures rising on the painting across from each other, one is easily recognizable as a dragon. The other is the elongated human figure of an Oni with long claws and horns. A figure I am all too familiar with. "One of the Sixteen Realms?" Lloyd asks, clarifying. "Not "one of!" The first. The Dragon had the power to create." Mystake told us, the Dragon figure flying in a circle making a tree symbol. 

"The Oni had the power to destroy." As Mystake says this, the Oni reaches out to the tree and it literally goes up in smoke. "Their war was never ending." Mystake stated as the two figures clashed. "But a child arrived, born of both worlds. The child understood the power of both. Without one, you could not have the other." Mystake says as a new figure appears, gray in color and wielding light and dark in balance, eventually turning into the yin-yang symbol. How fitting. 

The Dragon and Oni went to clutch each side of the child. "But when the Oni and Dragon fought over which side the child should choose, the child abandoned their world to start a new one called Ninjago." Mystake reveals, as the child is surrounded by four familiar Golden Weapons and performs Spinjitzu, creating the world. All of our jaws drops. "Are you telling me the child born from both worlds is the First Spinjitzu Master?" Lloyd asks in shock. 

"Hey, hey! You're related." Jay points out before gasping. "That means you're part Oni and Dragon too!" He exclaims. "Part Oni?" I mumble to myself. Lloyd is like...me? "Like I said, the truth can be dangerous." Mystake states, raising her hands up. All three of us watch Mystake and the painting closely as she tells the story, each of us invested. "After the First Spinjitzu Master created Ninjago, he fathered two sons of his own." Mystake narrates as a white figure and a black figure rise into the painting. 

"He thought he could escape the war. He saw the evil of the Oni was waiting to be unleashed in one of his sons, Lord Garmadon!" Mystake exclaims, the black figure sprouting another pair of arms, donning a samurai helmet, and laughs maniacally with glowing red eyes. I never saw how Garmadon was when he was like that. I have a feeling it is a good thing I didn't. "It was up to Master Wu to control his brother's undying thirst to destroy, and with some help—" Mystake continues, the white figure is now surrounded by 5 ninja, Lloyd and the original four. 

Jay cuts Mystake off saying, "Hey! Haha! That's us!" Lloyd and I wince at Jay's antics and Mystake glares at him. "Have some more tea." She tells him, unamused. "Lord Garmadon was destroyed by the most powerful force of all: the love of his own son." Mystake dramatically finishes. The painting showing the Green Ninja reaching out to the four-armed Garmadon. As Garmadon reaches back, he shifts back to a regular man before the painting is wiped away, then back to normal. 

"But in his absence, a void was created. And in that void, a new darkness has arisen." Mystake warns. "The Sons of Garmadon." Lloyd states, grimacing. "The three Oni Masks are relics from the first realm, and they wield tremendous power, The power to deceive. The power of vengeance. The power to hate." She informs "What happens when they're united?" Lloyd asks her. "You cannot let that happen." Mystake warns, looking scared for the first time ever. "Tell me...what happens when the three masks are united?" Lloyd pushes the topic. 

Mystake looks down. "Resurrection...They will have the power to bring back...your father!" She says ominously, throwing her hands in the air. All of us are stunned by this. Lloyd looks horrified and I can see the worry building in Jay as his face changes multiple expressions. "But it won't be the man you recognize! There will be no light left in him!" Mystake warns. Jay and I place and hand on Lloyd. "We need to get back to the Bounty." Lloyd states, quickly standing up and walking out. 

"Lloyd, wait." I plead, but he's already out the door. I look to Jay and he shrugs before getting up, bowing to Mystake, and following after Lloyd. "I guess he wasn't ready after all." Mystake quietly muses. "Who can be after that? The truth can be dangerous indeed." I mumble. "Yes, especially if you keep it to yourself." Mystake says causing me to look at her. "Tell him, (Y/n)." She says to me. My mind is racing after those words as well as that story. 

"How can I tell him after what happened? After this?" I say gesturing to the painting. "The more you wait the more dangerous it will be. This journey against this new darkness may break him." Mystake warns, a stern tone in her voice. I stand up, looking down at the sitting woman before me. "He is strong, Master. I will help him bear this burden." I tell her. "You already carry the burden of your own lies and secrets. How can you help share his load when you won't share yours?" She says, standing up to face me. 

Her determined gaze melts to one of understanding. "I know all too well the burden of secrets. I tell you this as a friend, be honest with him." My eyes look back and forth over her concerned face before I sigh. "I...I will try, Master. I will tell him" "Good. Now go, he needs you. And you need him." She states, saying the last part in an ominous tone. I nod before racing out of the shop to catch up to the others.

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The entire way home Lloyd has been silent. Neither Jay nor I can get him to talk. We just make our way onto the Bounty. "Lloyd, can we please talk about this?" I beg him, as we walk down into the ship. "There isn't anything to talk about." Lloyd responds. "Lloyd, please. I can help if you let me." I tell him. "Not now, (Y/n)." He says as we make our way through the ship's corridors. Both of us can hear familiar voices up ahead and Lloyd makes his way over there. 

I quickly follow after and can hear Harumi and Nya speaks. "Such anger. He hurt so many people. How did he change?" Harumi asks softly. "Master Wu once told me holding onto anger is like trying to throw a hot rock. Only you get burned. Lloyd helped his father let go. But all of that is behind us now." Nya tells her. "Or so I thought." Lloyd interjects as he enters the room, slowly followed by me. 

"Lloyd, (Y/n), You're back." Harumi exclaims happily. "Where's Zane and Cole? I need to see everyone." Lloyd asks, laser-focusing again. "Following a lead. Why? Is everything okay?" Nya asks, her voice starting to sound a little concerned. "The Sons of Garmadon want to bring back my father from the dead." Lloyd answers, looking away from her. The pain is evident in his voice. Nya gasps at the news, Harumi looking just as surprised.

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After explaining what we learned of the Oni Masks to the others, we all went to the bridge to fly the ship in position over downtown Ninjago. Cole and Zane are following their lead below and we'll be here if, or really when, they need us. Lloyd is leaning on a banister looking over the side to the bustling city around us. I walk up and stand next to him, leaning over as well. "Penny for your thoughts, Greenie?" I ask solemnly, to which I get no answer. "You know you don't have to handle this on your own." I say to him in a gentle tone. 

I look over my shoulder and see all the others focusing on watching Zane's feed on the monitor away from us. I place my hand over his, causing him to finally acknowledge me with a look. He hesitates before intertwining our hands together. "Look its...its hard (Y/n). So much has happened and I don't know if I understand it all yet. I...I don't know what to feel right now and I don't want to unload it on you." He quietly lets out. 

"I knew what I signed up for, Lloyd. And I want you to confide in me with whatever you may be feeling." I tell him, giving his hand a squeeze. "Really?" Lloyd asks. He looks and sounds tired but watches me with such amazement in his eyes. "Yeah, I know what you're going through and I want to help." I answer with a smile. "What do you mean by that?" He asks, a touch confused. "By what?" I shot back. 

"You said you know what I'm going through. What did you mean by that?" He asks, nudging me, a slight smirk on his face. Before I can answer, Jay calls over, "Guys you should really see this!" "Give us a minute, Jay!" Lloyd responds. "Trust me. You both are going to want to see this." Kai yells out, sounding very amused. I wonder what for? Lloyd and I both groan before making eye contact "Another time?" He asks. I nod and we head over to the monitor with the others, our hands separating and falling to our sides. 

As we reach the console both of our jaws drop, along with everyone else's. Cole is singing and even dancing a little on a karaoke stage in a sleeveless flannel vest, with a fedora, a fake scar, and mustache. And not just any song but a children's lullaby. All of us stand speechless as we watch this display, not knowing how to process it. "What is Cole doing?" Jay asks in disbelief, a smile breaking across his face. "I don't know, but please tell me you are recording this." Kai pleads. 

P.I.X.A.L. speaks up from the monitor. "Zane informed me he has a plan to gain the Sons of Garmadon's trust. But for it to work..." "Shine!" Cole shouts over the video feed. "...we must trust him." P.I.X.A.L. tells us. "Uh, no one answered my question." Kai says, a little annoyed. "Yes, Kai, yes, I am recording and I am making copies. Lots of copies." Jay exclaims happily. "This is so weird." I groan through my shock. Lloyd chuckles. "Yeah I bet you didn't expect to see this today." He jests. "No kidding." Nya chimes in from beside me. 

We watch as Cole continues to sing and make a fool of himself as the audience starts to boo him. Drinks and food fly to the stage as Cole tries to dodge them. He then tries to dance but slips on some of the spilt drink thrown on stage. His mustache and scar disguise fall off as he stands up, an awkward smile on his face. He's been found out. "Hey! He's one of those ninja!" We hear a patron shout over Zane's feed. "Grab him!" A woman orders and we see SOG members rush the stage, Zane included as the video walks forward. 

Cole tries to beat the patrons back with the mic stand. "Help me, Zane! Where are you?" Cole calls out. Zane approaches him from behind and knocks him out. "Find this Zane and grab him too!" Zane says in a gruff tone. The woman in purple and the biker with the red visor come in and drag Cole out of Zane's view. "Why isn't Zane helping him?" Jay asks from beside us. "Zane has blocked all communication." P.I.X.A.L. informs us, as the screen in front of us goes dark.

"This is our only lead. We may never get a second chance." Nya points out. "Zane wanted us to trust him." Lloyd remembers. "Zane is letting this happen!" Jay exclaims. "I'm not waiting for the coach to put me in." Kai says walking off. "I'm going." He looks back before running off the bridge. "Not alone, you're not." I say, following after him. "P.I.X.A.L., watch over Rumi." I hear Lloyd order before catching up to Kai. He nods in approval and we don our hoods. With the sound of footsteps behind me the others are coming too. 

All five of us go and grab a rope before hopping onto the ledge of the ship. Lloyd turns to us. "Ready ninja? Go!" He says as all of us jump and fall through the sky. We fall until we feel a tug on our ropes and leap onto a rooftop below us, racing to Cole's position. We jump off the rooftop and Lloyd pulls shurikens from his robes, tossing them at supports for a fire escape ladder. The shurikens make their mark and the ladder falls making a way across. We leap over another building and pull out of grapple hooks, descending down the walls. 

Landing on another rooftop, we look down to the bar and see the Sons of Garmadon scrambling to make their escape. Lloyd jumps and lands near the purple woman with Cole. He barely misses her before she skirts around him on her motorcycle, others following after her. The rest of us try and stop some of the SOG from escaping with our powers. I summon Crystals to jut from the ground, popping some tires and making other bikes crash against them. Jay harnesses the electricity from a nearby neon sign and sends a charge at the motorcycle of the man with a red visor. 

The motorcycle rolls to a stop and the biker jumps off, breaking into a run. "Don't let him get away!" Lloyd orders as the five of us chase after him. We follow him down a blocked off alleyway but stop in our tracks when the Son of Garmadon dons the Mask of Vengeance. The eyes of the mask glow bright, horns jutt out of his head and another set of arms come out of his body. The monster before us leaps over the dead end wall and our chase ensues. We follow him across traffic, over rooftops, and down more backstreets. 

"He's heading towards that alleyway!" I exclaim, running to that position. Our weapons are at the ready but we don't see him, until a clatter above gets our attention. The beast is using the laundry lines linked between the two buildings on each side of us to make his way up. "Aw, I always hated doing laundry." Jay complains. All of us help propel each other up as we jump up the wall and bounce on the laundry lines. 

As we bounce, Kai leaps and grabs onto Jay who is holding onto a line above him. The weight sends them both down before Kai releases Jay, shooting him further up. Jay lands across from the man with the Mask and lunges at him. The man leaps away, making Jay lose his balance and fall. Nya quickly catches him, Lloyd and I continuing to move up in sync. A pot is thrown from below us and flies towards our opponent, knocking him back. The man leaps and recovers before drawing his sword. 

Lloyd and I are fast approaching him and upon seeing that the man jumps down onto our line to battle. He swings at Lloyd with his twin katanna but I jump forward and kick him from behind. He turns to me, seeming pretty pissed. The masked man jumps and slices the line with his swords causing Lloyd and I to fall. Our opponent falls past us and bounces on a line, the force of which sends him flying up past us. "We can't let him escape!" Kai exclaims as we all jump up from line to line. 

While making our way up, the masked man reaches the roof and throws his katannas down at us. "Look out!' I warn. The swords cut the line Kai and Jay are on, causing them to flail and get tangled up together. The masked man then cuts a cloth which knocks down Nya. Lloyd jumps down to catch her as I continue after the assailant. I look back down as I reach the roof and see Lloyd has caught Nya. Nya then let's go and Lloyd flies up to meet me. I reach out my hand and he grabs it. After pulling him onto the roof we continue our pursuit. The man in the mask jumps onto the edge of a building and looks around warily, another set of katannas drawn. 

Green bean and I leap up farther down from him with our weapons ready for a fight. Both of us lunge at the masked man as he does the same. I jump into the air as Lloyd thrusts his sword forward. Knives fly from my fingers down at our opponent but he blocks both of our attacks. I land far behind Lloyd and the man in the mask as they attack and block each other with their swords. I run at them and leap over the two before shifting directions and drawing my own sword, ready to slash the back of our enemy while he's dealing with Lloyd. 

The man seems to see me coming and leaps out of my way. Lloyd fell into me as he was attacking the man at the same time. Our opponent lands behind us and swings his swords at us. Lloyd flips and leaps out of the way while I draw my katana to block. I push back and swing at him but he dodges again. Both of his katanas try to cut me down, pushing me forward while trying to evade him. "(Y/n), duck!" I hear from behind, hearing the familiar hum of Lloyd's power. 

Obeying him, I duck just in time, a blast of green energy fires at the masked man, knocking him back and knocking the mask off his head. The biker hangs off the ledge with one hand and catches the falling Oni Mask with the other. Lloyd and I rush over to finish this but are attacked by a flurry of shurikens. They pin Lloyd into a wall and hit my leg, knocking me over. I nearly fall and catch myself hanging in a similar fashion to the man with the Mask. "Hurry!" A familiar voice calls out. Zane, still in disguise, leaps over and holds out a hand to the man in the red visor. 

"There's no time!" He urges. The SOG takes his hand and they run off. "No!" I hear Lloyd shout. Nya, Kai, and Jay hop up onto the roof as I pull myself up. "He's getting away!" Jay exclaims. I run over to Lloyd and pull a shuriken out, freeing his hand to get the other one. Lloyd and I run after the others but he slows and examines the shuriken in his hand. "Wait!" he calls out causing us all to turn to him. "That was Zane's plan all along...he's just gained their trust." Lloyd observes.

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Lloyd had us go back to the Bounty to track Zane while Lloyd followed them on foot. Currently Nya, Harumi and I are tinkering below the bridge while Kai and Jay talk with Lloyd on the monitor. "Where was Zane last seen?" I hear from Lloyd on the console. "Central Station. But once they went underground, P.I.X.A.L. lost his signal. We haven't been able to pick up Cole's intercom either." Jay tells him. "If they're taking Zane to their hideout, then Cole could be held captive there. We can't lose Zane. I'm over Central now." Lloyd says over comms. 

"Harumi, could you hand me that wrench, please? The one right there?" I ask, pointing to the wrench I need. The Princess nods with a small smile and grabs it before presenting it to me. "Thanks Harumi." I say, wiping my head with my arm and taking the wrench from her. "My pleasure." She responds. I get to work on the engine in front of me, tightening the bolts and finishing to adjust the pistons. If there's one thing I know well from my time before the Ninja it's the inner workings of motor bikes. "No sign of Zane or Cole. They could be anywhere by now." Lloyd says defeatedly from the monitor. 

After finishing with the pistons, I get to work on the exhaust while Nya is literally hammering out the kinks on the metal plating as we speak. The noise seems to bother Kai as he walks over to the grate above us, peering down groaning. "Ugh, do you mind, sis? We're trying to save Cole and Zane." "What do you think we're doing? Zane won't last long undercover in a biker gang without a bike." Nya points out. "Oh." Kai reluctantly responds. 

Nya rolls her eyes and gets back to work, walking back to the engine block I'm working on "Harumi, can you hand me the electric torque wrench?" Nya asks, like its no big deal. I look over and see the confusion in Harumi's face as she looks for what Nya's talking about. She grabs a wrench and presents it to Nya. "Oh, sweetie, that's a torque multiplier." Nya corrects her. "Oh, I'm sorry." Harumi says, placing the wrench back on the tool chest. 

"Maybe I should be doing something more useful." She suggests, walking off. "Lloyd, did you find their hideout?" I hear Kai ask from above. "No sign of Zane or Cole. They could be anywhere by now." Lloyds repeats over the comms. "Don't worry. We'll find them. Kai and I will search other stations." Jay states. "I don't like this plan. It puts both of them in a lot of danger with no help from us." I say to Nya as we work. "Zane knows what he is doing. He has to." She says reluctantly.

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Kai and Jay left shortly after to help Lloyd search for Zane and the SOG hideout. I had finished building and reinforcing the structure of the bike and I was exhausted. "How about you go rest up (Y/n). I can handle the rest of the adjustment on this bad boy." Nay says, tapping her wrench against the motorbike. "You sure?" I ask, not wanting to leave Nya with work. "Please, I can do this in my sleep. Go. Rest. It's been a rough couple of days especially for you." Nya urges. "Thanks." I tell her. She smiles at me and I head inside the ship. 

Wandering across the deck and down into the halls, I walk into our sleeping quarters ready to sleep after all that work on the bike. To my surprise I'm not the only one here. "Princess! What are you doing in here?" The white haired woman jumps a bit in surprise before turning to me. "Oh (Y/n)! You startled me." Harumi says with a sigh. "My bad. But what brings you to our quarters?" I ask, leaning against a bed frame. Harumi steps aside revealing a basket of clothes on a chair and an open drawer in the large dresser behind her. 

"I figured since you all were kind enough to let me stay. I'd pitch in and help out." She tells me before grabbing another piece of clothing to fold. A grin spreads across my face and I scoff, walking over to the woman in green. Placing a gentle hand on her shoulder, she looks up to me in surprise. "You don't need to do that. You're a guest." I say. "Well I already washed these so I might as well put them away." She defends. I roll my eyes. "Then, scooch." I say, nudging her shoulder with mine. 

"Since you're being stubborn I might as well help. If you allow me, Your Highness." I tease with a mocking bow. She giggles and moves aside for me to help. "So how are you enjoying your time aboard our little ship?" I ask, handing her another shirt to fold as I follow suit. "Everyone has been so wonderful. It's a like a dream come true being here with you all. Your lives are so exciting!" Harumi gushes. "You are definitely not what I expected, Princess." I scoff, a wide smirk on my face 

"Is that a compliment or an insult?" She jests nudging me playfully. "Trust me it's definitely a compliment. Most people would be a bit more concerned about being on the run. You're a lot stronger than I thought." I retort. "Well I know that you all will protect me so why worry?" Harumi shrugs. She sighs before grabbing another shirt to fold. "Besides, it's better than being alone all the time." She admits. "What about your parents?" I ask. "They are...were lovely...but I was left alone most of the time with just guards keeping me company. They aren't the most talkative." Harumi says, a sad smile on her face. 

"I get it. The being alone. Before all of this..." I gesture around the room. "...I lived in the wilderness alone." Harumi watches me with wide eyes, full of surprise and concern. "I used to think it was my choice and it was better that way but I missed my family. Being around people that love me. I couldn't go back to that but couldn't move forward, and I just felt..." "Trapped." Both of us say, causing us to look at each other in surprise. Smiles break across our faces. Each of us looks at the other with a sense of understanding. 

Harumi places a gentle hand on my back. "Neither of us have to feel trapped anymore, or alone." She quietly stated. "You really are something else Harumi." I exclaim. "Well you're not too bad yourself (Y/n)." Harumi responds, sending me a wink. I scoff and toss a shirt at her face. Her expression is one of shock before shifting to determination and throwing it back in my face. Pulling it off I stick my tongue at her childishly. Both Harumi and I laugh aloud before getting back to work.

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The three of us waited together on the bridge in case Zane or the others check in with an update. We haven't heard anything about Zane or Cole or the SOG, and all I can do is watch the monitors hoping for something to happen. I hate this! Nya seems to notice my antsy state and approachs me. "Don't worry (Y/n). The guys will find them" Nya states comfortingly. "None of them have checked in and we've heard nothing from Cole or Zane since they were taken." I point out, crossing my arms. 

"Zane chose to do this. All we can do is be there when he needs us." Nya advises. Nothing changes on the monitor and I scoff. "You may be right, but I don't have to like it." I groan, walking away. My focus shifts back to the monitor as it starts to beep. Zane's video feed starts to play, showing he is driving down the Ninjago City highway. The Sons of Garmadon ride infront of him on their motorcycles weaving around traffic. 

"P.I.X.A.L., can you read me? My cover may be blown, but I've spotted the Mask of Deception." Zane says over the monitor's comm systems. "I read you. Acquiring picture." P.I.X.A.L. responds. "Did he just say he sees the Mask of Deception?" Harumi asks, walking over to us both. Zane chimes in over the comms again. "I don't know how long I'll last, so I'll tell you this now. I don't know who's in charge, but he is known as "The Quiet One."" Zane informs us. "The Quiet One?" Harumi mumbles. 

"Hold tight a little longer. We have a new bike coming to you now!" Nya tells him, typing away at the console. The ship starts to turn as she does so, heading for Zane's position in Ninjago City. "Zane, what about Cole? Where is he?" I ask. "He is locked up at the Sons of Garmadon's base." Zane tells us. "What?" Nya exclaims. "Why would you leave him there?" I question Zane. "He found something at the base on the third Mask. If he follows the plan, he will break out and get it." Zane explains. "We need to get there now." I urge Nya. She nods in agreement before running to the ship's wheel and pulling a lever beside it. 

Boosters fire, increasing our speed as we fly to the city. "(Y/n), tell the others what happened and to meet us at this rendezvous." Nya orders, highlighting a point on the monitor's map of Ninjago City. "We'll pick them up after helping Zane." She explains before turning to our white-haired friend. "Harumi, I'll need your help getting the bike ready for drop off." Nya states. "Right." Harumi responds with a nod before racing off the bridge with the Water Ninja. "Hold on, Zane. We'll be there soon." I mumble aloud.

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Flying high over the skyscrapers and bustling highways below, we reach Ninjago City. "P.I.X.A.L., the mask is getting away. Can you find me a route through?" Zane chimes in, his feed showing he got blocked by the traffic. "All routes are blocked." P.I.X.A.L. tells him. "Then I'll have to find my own way." Zane responds before departing from his bike. "Zane, we're about two minutes out from your position. We'll be there soon, copy?" I inform him. "Affirmative." He states as he weaves and leaps over the gridlocked cars. I turn to the controls for the ship's PA and speak. 

"Nya, Harumi we are approaching Zane's position. Is the bike ready for drop-off?" "Yeah we got it." Nya answers. I look back to the monitor and see we are right over Zane. "Alright girls we are in positon. Let it drop." I tell them. "Zane, look up." I hear Nya speak over our intercoms. "You have some help. Let her fly." She exclaims. I watch on the monitor and see the bike jet safely down to him. "This will do." I hear Zane say excitedly. The girls run back up to join me on the bridge as Zane hops onto his new bike. 

"Hope we're not too late to the party. Think you can catch up?" Nya asks from the console. "I don't think. I know." Zane confidently states before racing off down the road. "P.I.X.A.L., continue to monitor Zane's position. Don't lose sight of him" I order. "Of course." P.I.X.A.L. responds. "Alright, let's pick up the boys. The sooner we do the sooner we can help Zane." I say to Harumi and Nya. They nod before racing to different consoles on the bridge. "Harumi, can you track down where the others are at?" Nya asks as she types away next to me. 

"I'm on it." She says, hitting controls on her console. "(Y/n), take the wheel." Nya orders. "Aye, aye, captain." I jest, saluting her before racing to the wheel. "Lloyd and the others are at the West skytram station." Harumi calls out. "On it." I say, turning the wheel towards the west end of the city. I look over my shoulder and see Harumi go to join Nya and the center monitor to watch Zane's feed. Shifting my attention to the screen in front of the wheel, three red dots pop up and are approaching quickly. As the Bounty arrives over the Ninja's position I place a hand to my earpiece. 

"Hop in, boys. We got places to be." I say over the comms as I drop the anchor low enough for them to climb. "Got room for one more?" A familiar voice chirps in my earpiece. "Cole!? Where are you?" I ask. "I'm just outside the South subway line." Cole responds. Looking up I see Lloyd, Kai, and Jay climb onto the deck and walk towards the bridge. I retract the anchor and speak over comms again. "We're on our way to you now, Cole. Hang tight." I tell him, turning the wheel left before flying across the city again. 

"I've caught up with the mask." I hear Zane say over the monitor. "Zane, are you seeing what we're seeing?" Nya asks in shock. "I was going to ask you the same thing." Zane admits. What is happening? I wonder. I shake it off and focus on flying the ship. "If you're having trouble, I built in some additional help." Nya informs Zane. "I see that now. Activating." Zane states. As they speak we reach the south side of Ninjago City. Cole's position is directly below and I drop the anchor once again. 

Lloyd and the others climb up to the bridge and Cole climbs onto the lower deck. What does he have with him? Lloyd speaks up, causing me to turn my gaze to him. "So what's the situation?" He asks. "Zane's cover got blown but he's tracking the Mask of Deception and in pursuit." Nya answers. "Then let's go help him." Kai states, catching a punch with his palm and flashing a cocky grin. "P.I.X.A.L., do you have a read on Zane's position?" I ask, approaching the center console. "Yes, but I am not able to contact him. His communication system and video feed are down." P.I.X.A.L. tells us. 

"He could be in trouble." Jay exclaims. "P.I.X., get us there as fast as you can." Lloyd orders. The ship's thrusters power up before we blast across the sky. Cole climbs up the ladder to finally join us and I notice he's holding a bundle of white rags in his other arm. Looking closer, I see the rag start to move as he approaches us. I blink trying to process what is going on. "Cole...is that a baby?" I ask nonchalantly. Everyone turns to look at Cole and then the bundle in his arms. Cole chuckles nervously and rubs the back of his neck with his free arm. "Um, so, funny story..."

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Chapter Text

Lloyd's POV:

The child starts to cry out with crazy volume causing most of us to cover our ears. "Cole!" I shout. "I don't know what I did!?" Cole calls back in confusion. He stands stiff not knowing what to do and trying to hold the baby gently. "Geez." (Y/n) rolls his eyes and walks towards the awkward Earth Ninja before taking the baby into his arms. 

"Hey little guy! I'm going to help you out okay? But you need to calm down." (Y/n) quietly coos in a sweet and tender tone. He holds out his finger to the crying infant before it starts to calm down to (Y/n)'s soothing coos and sucks on the tip of (Y/n)'s finger. "There we go. Now let's go see what the problem is. Alright?" (Y/n) tells the bundle in his arms. 

The child coos happily, reaching towards (Y/N)'s face. (Y/n) brings him up and boops his nose with his finger before continuing to rock the infant gently in his arms. All of us look at (Y/n) with shock on our faces. None of us have ever seen (Y/n) like this. With his loner past, who knew he'd be so great with kids. It's kinda cute, I think to myself, grinning at the sight. 

(Y/n) notices our stares and gives us a questioning look while he slightly swaying with the baby in his arms, the child suckling on his finger happily. "Why are you guys being weird?" (Y/n) asks like its no big deal. "How did you know how to do that?" Nya wonders. "Younger Siblings." (Y/n) bluntly answers before starting to walk off. "Why are you going?" Kai asks. 

"To help the kid and clean him up after being in an abandoned subway. The rest of you boys should do the same." (Y/n) calls out over his shoulder before exiting the bridge and heading below. "(Y/n)'s right. Nya, Harumi man the bridge and get us to Zane. The rest of us will go clean ourselves up." I tell them. 

"Especially you Cole. You smell like day-old boba and grease." Jay chimes in, jabbing Cole in the side before running off the bridge. "Hey!" Cole yells, chasing after him. Kai and I laugh at their antics. The red Ninja swings an arm over my shoulder as we walk to the deck. "Let's go before those two make even more of a mess." Kai states.

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After getting out of a refreshing hot shower, I walk back to our quarters to change into new robes. Going over to the community dresser, I open my drawer and grab a clean gi. While pulling my shirt on, I notice an odd yellow glow coming from underneath (Y/n)'s pillow. I walk over to inspect it, flipping over his plush (f/c) pillow. 

A long Crystal shard pulsating with yellow energy lays below. When I reach out to touch it, I feel a rush of energy. Time goes backward and I'm back pulling my shirt on again. I look from my half dressed self to (Y/n)'s untouched bed, my eyebrows furrowing in confusion. A realization hits, and my face grimaces. 

Quickly changing, I grab the Crystal again and storm out of the room. "(Y/n)?" I call out, walking through the corridors of the Bounty. "(Y/n)!" I shout again, anger rising in my voice. The (h/c) Ninja sneaks out of a room a few doors ahead of me, gently shutting the door behind him. "(Y/n)!" I yell, causing him to jump and turn to me. 

When he sees me he smiles and walks up saying, "Hey! Just got the kid burped and cleaned his face a bit. Though I noticed something weird with—" I pull out the yellow shard, cutting him off, my eyes glaring at him. (Y/n) looks at the shard and then back to me, his demeanor shrinking under my gaze. "Where did you find that?" He quietly asks me, reaching for the Crystal. 

I pull it out of his reach and look at him with a stern expression. "Explain." I order, my tone low and rough. (Y/n) sighs and looks next to us, gesturing for him to follow. He guides us into one of our training dojos on the ships before turning back to me. (Y/n) nervously holds his arms close to his chest, his eyes avoiding mine. "I wanted to tell you." He mumbles. "(Y/n), you told me you destroyed the Time Blade. Like I told you to!" I yell. "I did!" He shouts back. 

"Then when I touched this, why did time rewind?" I ask, holding the Crystal out again. "I did destroy it, but I thought...maybe, we could...use the power..." (Y/n) tries to explain, crossing his arms nervously. "What!? Why would you ever think that is a good idea?" I scolded him. "Are you kidding?! We lost Zane. Not almost lost, he was gone. Kai and Nya barely made it back and Wu...Wu didn't come back at all. And I can't...I won't lose anyone again." (Y/n) tells me, his voice wavering. 

My expression softens and I approach my boyfriend, gently grabbing onto his arm. "(Y/n), I get that, but we lost Wu because of this power. You shouldn't mess with forces you can't control." I warn in a soft tone. (Y/n) looks to me. "But I can control it, Lloyd. I know how to use it to help—" "You've been using it?" I exclaim. "Yeah, I have." (Y/n) states, growing more defensive. "How long? Is this why you've disappeared after missions?" I ask. 

"I-I can't say." (Y/n) retorts, turning away from me. I scoff. "Why am I not surprised? You've been hiding something ever since you found your mother's diary." I point out. (Y/n)'s caught off guard, his (e/c) eyes looking back at me in shock as I continue. "You're different. Lying about what you actually found when your powers acted up, about where you've been between missions this past year, and now this!? Since when can you do this?" Pulling the Crystal out while I speak. 

"You've been shutting me out. Never letting me know what's wrong with you. Never letting me help." (Y/n) rolls his eyes and scoffs. "Like you can talk, Lloyd. Ever since you became Master you've think you need to carry everything on your own. Like Wu "did." But news flash: You're not alone in this! You don't just get to shut me out and expect me to watch you suffer!" (Y/n) yells, taking a breath before continuing. 

"Even just trying to get you to talk about your father the other day was a battle. You don't come to me anymore! Especially after the Palace, spending all your time with Harumi!" "She's. Our. Guest!" I spell out. "Yeah I know that! But we haven't seen each other in a year and the most time I got from you was a few minutes in the Palace. I mean..." 

"What?" I ask, getting pretty heated. "I thought I was your...your" (Y/n) sniffs, wiping his hand over his eye. He's crying when did he start crying? He laughs "I don't even know what I am to you." (Y/n) admits, more tears falling, his face showing how tired and broken he's been feeling. It breaks my heart seeing him like this. Why didn't he let me know any of this? Didn't he trust me? 

"You're my boyfriend, (Y/n). Just talk to me, please. We help each other, right?" I plead with him, trying to walk up to him. His gaze is hopeful before he shakes his head and pushes me back softly. "I-I can't. I'm afraid you wouldn't look at me the same." (Y/n) whispers, shutting his eyes. "(Y/n), nothing would change that. Please." I beg. 

(Y/n) shakes his head again, turning away from me and putting his hands to each side of his head. I want to help him. I reach out to grab his shoulder but stop when the ship's PA loudly interjects. "Guys, we need you on the bridge. We think Zane is in trouble!" Nya's voice says urgently over the intercom. (Y/n) is still not facing me, his hands clutching his hair. 

I groan, tired of this going nowhere. "Fine. If you don't want to tell me that's on you. Come find me when you're done with all the lying." I huff, walking out of the room. I bump into Rumi as I storm down the hall. "Lloyd, what's wrong?" She wonders, placing a hand on my arm. I shrug it off and continue on, not really in the mood to talk with her. As I turn around the corner I see (Y/n) come out of the room, eyes red from crying. Harumi embraces him and I walk off.

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Night has fallen as we approach Zane's distress beacon. The Bounty soars over the Dune Sea, stopping over a canyon. Kai and (Y/n) shine the search lights as we fly over the canyons, the rest of us keeping an eye out for Zane as we go. I catch myself taking a glance at (Y/n), before looking back at the ground below. 

We've been ignoring each other since our fight, focusing on finding Zane. I hid the Crystal I found in a locked chest, not wanting anyone to get their hands on it. I still can't believe (Y/n) went behind my back like that. I trusted him and to destroy it but he lied to me. Been lying to me. For what? For power? 

I had to deal with it enough as a kid with my Dad...I never thought I'd have to deal with it with (Y/n) of all people. (Y/n) hasn't talked to anyone but Harumi since then and his eyes are still red from crying. "Guys, look!" Kai calls out, pointing his searchlight on an area below us. A white and silver figure lies partially buried in the sand. 

Nya and I throw a rope over and climb down to our fallen friend. "Zane! Zane, can you hear me?" I ask, crouching over him. He's unresponsive. Many pieces of his body have dents or tears and his eyes are dark and lifeless. "What did they do to him?" Nya asks over my shoulder, sounding very concerned. Two pairs of feet hit the ground behind us as Jay and Cole come up behind us. 

"Say something, Zane. Can you hear us? Zane?" Jay calls out, shaking the nindroid's leg. I turn around and call up to the Bounty. "P.I.X.A.L., lower the gurney. Zane's in bad shape." A whirring sound echoes through the air as the gurney comes down, Cole and Jay racing over to meet it. 

"Hang on, buddy. Hang on." I urge my fallen friend before the guys bring the gurney over. Nya and I load Zane on, Cole and Jay carrying him back towards the line. Nya hooks the gurney to the ascension cable. "Okay. Winch him up, P.I.X." Nya calls up, causing the gurney to rise back to the ship. Please be okay, Zane.

......................................................................

Nya and (Y/n) went to work to help P.I.X.A.L. repair Zane, setting up shop in the control room below the bridge. Now, Zane lays on a bed in front of us, a wire hooked into his head as the screen above us runs a diagnostic. All of us are solemn as we huddle around our injured friend. "How bad is it?" I ask P.I.X. 

"He has extensive damage to all systems. His neural net and cognitive cores suffered severe failures." She responds from the computer screen, showing the damage. "Can you save him?" Nya wonders, as do we all. "I've diverted power to critical life functions, but Zane will have to do most of the work. He must reconfigure his system and reboot himself." P.I.X.A.L. informs us. 

"Isn't there anything we can do?" Harumi asks in her sweet concerned tone. "We have to keep moving or the Sons of Garmadon will find us." I interject before continuing. "They'll do anything to get their hands on the child." "I just don't get how a baby can be a key." Kai admits, rubbing his head. 

"I don't either, but that's what they said. They called him the key to the third mask." Cole tells us. "If Cole's right, we need to disappear. Get as far away from Ninjago City as we can." I state. "Hmm. Doesn't seem right. Abandoning Ninjago City." Jay ponders. "We're not abandoning. There are others who will protect her." I say. "Like who?" Kai retorts, placing a hand on his hip. 

"There's always Samurai X. Whoever that is." Nya answers with a shrug. "Whoever it is, they're going to have to cover for us until we get a handle on things." I tell the others before turning back to the screen. "P.I.X.A.L., set a new course. Anywhere but here." I say, shaking my head. We all look at Zane's resting form with concerned faces. 

Our silence is broken when (Y/n) speaks up. "I'm going to go check on the kid." He mumbles. "I'll come too." Cole says, turning to join him. "Same here." Harumi chimes in. "We'll all go." I say following everyone out. "Nya, can you watch over Zane?" I ask. "Of course." Nya nods with a look of determination.

......................................................................

Let me just say, I don't know anything about kids. Especially babies, I just don't get them. All of us are struggling to help the wailing babe in my arms. The other three guys look just as worried as none of us have any experience with babies. (Y/n) is scrounging through the room for possible baby supplies. "Maybe he's thirsty. Give him some milk." I suggest, passing him to Cole. 

"I tried. He doesn't like milk." Cole explains before passing the baby to Kai. "What else do babies drink?" Jay asks, prompting Kai to turn to Jay with the crying infant. "Don't ask me. Ask him." Kai states, placing the kid in Jay's arms. "He's a baby! He hasn't learned how to talk yet." Cole points out, throwing his hands down in frustration. 

"Oh! Maybe he needs a diaper change." Jay exclaims, giving the child to Cole. The Black Ninja then places the baby gingerly in his makeshift crib, continuing to bawl loudly. "Oh my gosh! Do we even have diapers?" Cole asks, grabbing his head. "Why would we have diapers? We're Ninja!" I exclaim, feeling very frustrated. "Ooh! Maybe we can use one of our hoods instead." Jay suggests

"Not my hood." Kai states, crossing his arms. "We'll draw straws. Loser gives up their hood." I tell them. All of us stop in place and turn towards the crib. It's quiet. He's stopped crying. Unaware to us, (Y/n) went behind us and is tenderly rocking the baby while Harumi sings a lullaby beside him. 

"The spider's in the house. Sleep, sleep. The spider bit the mouse sleep deep. Don't wake up or else, you'll find a spider in your mouth." 

By the time the last words are spoken, the kid is out for the count. "Wow. You're really good at that." Cole says, amazed. (Y/n) turns to us with a smile. "Lullaby and some rocking always worked on me. Thanks for the help Harumi." (Y/n) says with a smile. She beams back placing a tender hand on his arm which makes me feel tense.

"It was no problem. He was just tired. It's been a busy day for him. Too much excitement." Harumi coos, tucking the sleeping baby's blanket wrap a bit before leaving the room. (Y/n) then goes and places the baby into his crib. I watch him with amazement but when we lock eyes I look away. 

(Y/n) lowers his head and quickly leaves the room. I leave shortly after and make my way to the top deck. Harumi leans against the barricade, gazing at the nearby storm. "My father told me they call this the Dead Man's Squall." I say aloud, as I go to join her. She turns to me looking surprised before melting in a smile. 

We lean against the side of the Bounty, watching the thundering clouds, flashes of lightning zapping every now and then. "Do you remember much about your father before he left you as a child? When he was...bad?" Harumi asks hesitantly. "No, not really. I was too young. What about your parents?" I ask back. 

"Sometimes in my dreams, they're right next to me. It's like they're still here, but then I...I wake up." Harumi solemnly says. I get that. Harumi and I share a lot in common. She just gets it. "You're not alone, Rumi." I tell her, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Neither are you." She responds, placing a hand on mine. I give a warm smirk to match her kind smile. 

"I know it must be difficult to think they're trying to bring your father back. I can't imagine what must be going through your head." She says, shaking her head. I look away as well, it's hard to think about. I'm conflicted because I miss my father but I know if they succeed it won't be good for Ninjago. And as Mystake did warn he won't be the same. 

Harumi continues, calling my attention. "Whatever happens, I'll be here." She says tenderly. Rumi leans in, slowly closing her eyes and slightly pursing her lips. I jump back, my cheeks red. "Uh, I better go see what the—Um, I have to go, uh, that way." I ramble before turning and leaving. Walking down into the ship my thoughts are running wild. 

What was that? She was trying to kiss me? Why am I blushing? Do I like her? What about (Y/n)? This thought causes me to stop in the hallway. My heart may be beating fast but its nothing like what I feel for (Y/n). No.....I still like (Y/n). I may be mad at (Y/n) right now, but that doesn't mean we're over. Right?

......................................................................

(Y/n)'s POV:

We're not over right? I mean that fight wasn't a breakup, or some kind of ultimatum was it? I'm wrapped up in my head as I'm searching through the rooms for baby supplies. We definitely can't use hoods for diapers. Entering the guest room, Harumi's staying in, I start to look around. I've never seen Lloyd like that. So...angry, I think as I look through the drawers in the wall. 

I wish I could make him understand. He can be so stubborn. I sigh, before opening another drawer finding an extra set of bedsheets. "These could work." I mumble to myself as I hold the soft fabric out. The sheets are thick and comfortable, though I will need to cut them up a bit. I pull out the top sheet and grab a knife from my robe. 

Why can't he see how helpful that Crystal can be? Does he not trust me? I wonder, tearing the sheet into three wide strips. I guess I'm no better. I have been lying to him. He's not the only one who's stubborn. I should have just told him everything like Mystake said. I'm able to turn a strip into four diaper clothes with three quick slashes. Would he understand though? He is part-Oni, I think hopefully. 

After folding the diaper cloths I grab the next bedsheet strip. But he's also part-Dragon and a descendent of The First Spinjitzu Master. He is kind, smart, handsome, and a powerful warrior. And Harumi is a Princess, a kindhearted woman who has been nothing but kind to us all. What am I to someone like Lloyd? To someone like Harumi, with my Oni blood? To the rest of the Ninja whose power come from more benevolent sources? I wonder. 

Before I know it I'm through both strips and have 12 makeshift diapers at the ready. Standing up, I walk back to the drawer to grab another bedsheet. However, I feel something hard underneath it. Peeling the sheet back I find a knife laying in the drawer. It doesn't look like one of our weapons. Why does Harumi have this? "I'll have to ask her next time I see her." I say aloud. 

As I continue to cut more bedsheets with my knife, I still don't know what to do about me and Lloyd. I want to tell him everything, but I'm also afraid of what will happen when he knows it all. And what will happen to us when he does. Finishing my work, I fold everything up and take them to Cole, who's watching over the baby.

I leave him quickly and quietly, not wanting to disturb the sleeping infant, and then make my way to the control room. Once I reach the door I see everyone huddled around Zane and looking at P.I.X.A.L.'s monitor. "...encrypted, but I managed to decipher the message." P.I.X.A.L. says. A recording plays and sounds distorted and backwards, before playing clearly: "The trap has been set." 

"Trap? What trap?" Jay asks aloud. Kai scoffs. "Classic bad guy stuff. It must be in their DNA." "But wait a minute. If Mr.E sent a message, maybe we can locate the Quiet One's whereabouts. P.I.X.A.L., can you triangulate the point of origin?" Nya requests. "I've already started the trace program." P.I.X.A.L. tells her. "That's great, P.I.X.A.L.. How long will it take?" Lloyd asks. 

"I don't know. The storm is interfering with my trace program. If we descended to a lower altitude, it might help." P.I.X.A.L. suggests. "The storm is hiding us. If we drop below the clouds, won't the Sons of Garmadon spot us?" Harumi wonders. "Rumi's right. We're in pretty bad shape at the moment. We have to stay in the storm. Can't risk being spotted." Lloyd states, before noticing me enter the room. 

He looks away to the screen, still mad at me. "So where do we go?" Jay asks. Cole runs through the doorway with a large piece of cloth. "We go there!" Cole exclaims, holding out the cloth. It looks familiar and I recall what I was trying to tell Lloyd earlier about the cloth. A well detailed map is inscribed on it. "What is it?" Nya asks. "All this time it was with the baby. The map to the last Oni Mask." Cole states.

......................................................................

The storm outside rocks the ship as we all sit at our dinner table, causing the lantern above us to swing overhead and Jay's last meatball to roll back and forth on his plate. The map is laid out on the table in front of us, surrounded by our cleared dinner plates. Everyone sits around the table either finishing eating (Jay) or looking over the map after eating. 

Looking across the table, Lloyd stares at the map as he had since Cole brought it in. He hasn't even eaten. Cole and I sit across from Lloyd and Harumi, the baby cradled in Cole's bulky arms. "I don't get it. Why was the baby wrapped in a map?" Kai asks, breaking the silence after dinner. "I don't know. Maybe they didn't have any diapers either." Cole suggests. 

"This part here looks like it could be the central part of Ninjago." Harumi points on the map. "And the X. You think the third Oni Mask could be hidden there?" Nya wonders. "Primeval's Eye." Lloyd exclaims in realization. "My mother used to tell me about this place. It's an uncharted vast wilderness of death. Her friend, an archaeologist, I think his name was Dr. Yost, he had gone on to map the area. But he never returned." Lloyd explains, ominously. 

"Well, it seems like he successfully mapped the area, but who knows what's out there." I state. "I don't want to say it, but it sounds like the perfect place to hide something you don't want anyone to find." Nya admits. Jay continues to try and stab his rolling meatball with his fork. "Haha. Come here, you little sucker." Jay says, raising his fork. 

He jabs down, but he didn't stab the meatball. Kai gasps and whimpers at the impact. Covering my mouth, we all gasp. Cole covers the baby's eyes as Jay's fork sticks out of Kai's hand. Jay gasps looking horrified by what he's done. "Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to—" Jay starts, reaching out to grab the utensil. Kai cuts him off and holds up his free hand. 

"Don't! Just, don't." He groans through gritted teeth. I get up and walk into the kitchen to grab the first aid kit and a fork before pulling Kai from his seat. Kai winces as I pull the fork out and hand Jay a new one. "This might sting." I tell Kai, dabbing a cotton ball with alcohol. "Pfft. I can take it." Kai smirks, flexing his arm for me. 

I dab the alcohol onto his wound, the hothead tries to keep a cool demeanor but fidgeting his feet anxiously. "Good news is you'll live." I tease as I begin to wrap his hand. "The bad news?" He hesitantly asks. "You can't hit Jay with it." I jest. Kai cracks a smile and chuckles. "What are you feeding him?" I hear Nya ask. I follow her gaze to Cole who holds a cup to the infant's lips. 

"Tea." He answers. "Tea!? You can't feed a baby tea!" Nya scolds. The baby starts to whine when Cole pulls the cup away, causing the raven haired man to bring it back to the baby's mouth "Why not? He likes it. He won't drink anything else." Cole tells her. Tea...Cryptic clues like the map...Why is this familiar? Jay interrupts my thoughts shouting, "Ha! Gotcha! Who's laughing now, meatball?" Jay triumphantly holds the meatball with his fork. 

Suddenly the power shuts off and all of us are thrown to the floor as the ship rumbles. "What happened to the lights?" Kai asks, lying awkwardly beside me. "Get to the bridge. Quick!" Lloyd orders as we all run out of the room. Lloyd guides us to the control room, Zane still lying unconscious. "P.I.X.A.L., what's happening? P.I.X.A.L.! Come in!" Lloyd calls out to the monitor. 

"Must be a power failure." Kai states. "Or it's a trap." Jay adds on. "Freaking out isn't going to help us." Cole tells us calmly. "Jay might be right. The backup generators would have kicked in. This is something else." Nya exclaims. "Well, at least the ship is still flying." I say. Alarms ring and the monitor comes to life. "Emergency. Emergency." P.I.X.A.L. shouts. 

"What happened, P.I.X.A.L.?" Lloyd asks. "I'm detecting a foreign presence—has been—introduced into my system." P.I.X.A.L.'s voice tries to spurt out. "Foreign? What are you talking about?" Lloyd asks. "It appears we are being tracked. I have lost control of the ship." P.I.X. informs us, showing a warning sign over an image of the Bounty, red dots appearing all over it. 

"How did something get in?" Jay wonders. Electricity crackles and we all look to see a panel open on Zane's chest. "The trap. Something was planted on Zane. They wanted us to take him in." Kai explains. "Proximity alarm. Something is approaching the Bounty, fast." P.I.X.A.L. tells us. "Onscreen." Nya orders. A familiar mech is displayed on the screen. "It is—Samurai X." P.I.X.A.L. says, static cutting in and out. 

"Oh. He must be here to help us out." Cole says, sounding hopeful. "I'm afraid that is—unlikely." P.I.X.A.L. tells us, the screen buzzing again. "Why?" Lloyd asks. "Because my system—is overrun." P.I.X.A.L. says, cutting in and out. "You're making no sense, P.I.X.A.L.. What are you talking about?" Kai asks, slamming his fist on the table. 

"This would be a good time to make a minor confession." P.I.X.A.L. starts as an image of Samurai X comes on screen. "I–am—Samurai—X." P.I.X.A.L. reveals, her voice distorting out and the image showing P.I.X.A.L.'s face under the Samurai X helmet. "What? Are you serious?" Kai shouts. "How is that possible?" Nya wonders. "How can you be Samurai X?" Lloyd asks. 

"I know this isn't the time, but...half of you owe me money on the Samurai bet." I state, high-fiving Jay. "Totally called it!" He exclaims proudly. "You did not!" Cole retorts. "Did too!" Jay tells him. A boom sounds off outside, out the window a laser bolt hits the side of our ship, rocking from the explosion. "They just hit our thruster!" I call out. 

"We probably needed that, right?" Harumi asks. Nya types away on the console before speaking up. "The mech is targeting the second aft thruster. Lloyd, if we lose the second—" Nya warns. "I know, I know. We'll drop out of the sky like a brick. Nya, try to find the foreign agent. Jay, keep that lightning off our back. The rest of us, get ready to fight." Lloyd orders. 

Cole runs off with the baby while the rest of us except Nya head onto the main deck of the ship. All of us watch the sky for the flying mech. Rain falls and the storm rages all around us. We spot the mech in the distance soar behind the clouds. "Everyone be on alert." Lloyd orders, all of us drawing our weapons. The thunder is roaring even closer to us now. 

"That lightning is getting way too close for comfort. Jay, try to hold them off." Lloyd tells him. "Got it." He says. Just as he steps forward a bolt of Lightning flies down. Jay holds out his hand, concentrating before redirecting it away from the ship. The Blue Ninja groans, turning to us with a weak smile. "You're welcome." 

Another sound roars overhead as we see the Samurai X Mech fly close, shooting at our sails. The ships rocks from the impact and we try to find the mech again. "There." Cole calls out, but it's too dark to see. "Can't see a thing in this storm." Lloyd calls out. "Time to light this place up." Kai says, throwing a giant fireball into the air, illuminating the storm around us. 

"Rumi, stand back and take this." Lloyd says to the Princess, handing her a spare katana. "But I don't know how to fight!" She tells him. "But you wanna live, right?" He asks as she reluctantly takes it. "There!" Lloyd points to the sky, we all follow his direction and see the navy blue mech circling in the air, portside. The Green Ninja harnesses his energy and expands it before blasting the mech. 

Samurai X narrowly dodges it, turning her attention towards us. Lloyd tries to blast them again, hitting the mech's shoulder. Samurai X looks dazed before flying towards us and landing on the deck, drawing a giant sword. Lloyd and I look at the thruster then back at the mech. "Don't let her get the thruster!" Lloyd calls out. 

Jay charges at the mech but is tossed aside with a flick of it's hand. I throw two Crystal daggers at the feet of the approaching mech. I concentrate and make them grow, fully encasing the mech from moving. The mech starts to whirr underneath and my casing starts to crack, I hold out my hands, focusing on holding it together. 

Samurai X breaks free and I take a knee, Kai and Cole leap over me and lunge at the mech. The mech pushes Kai back with it's giant sword and grabs Cole in it's palm before tossing him aside, into Jay. Samurai X approaches me and Lloyd as we draw our swords. It swings it's giant metal sword, causing Lloyd to duck and me to jump. 

Blade meets the mast as Lloyd ducks and rolls and I jump onto the mech. P.I.X.A.L. continues to swing at Lloyd as I climb to the head of the mech. I encase my fist in Crystal before climbing up and punching Samurai X across the face. With a crack, she turns her gaze towards me, grabbing me with the hand of her mech and throwing me at Kai, who gets knocked down again. 

I look up and see Lloyd on the ground, his sword tossed jabbed into the floor a ways from him and Samurai X holding her sword high above him. As the sword comes down I scream and charge at the robot. A clang rings through the air and I see Harumi block the mech's sword from Lloyd. Thank The First Spinjitzu Master. 

Before I can reach them, Samurai X grabs Harumi and flies off. "Lloyd!" She calls out, frightened and struggling in the mech's grip. "Harumi!" He yells, holding a hand out to her as the mech flies under the ship. I summon a chain and wrap it around Lloyd's sword, with a tug it flies into my hand. "Lloyd," I say as I run to Lloyd, tossing him his sword. He stares at me and walks away, not even acknowledging me. 

Lloyd then sprints across the deck, jumping off the edge. The rest of us run to the edge and watch in amazement as Lloyd lands on the mech as it flies off. "He did not just—" Jay says in unbelief. "He just did." Kai says, finishing his thought. We see Lloyd swinging his sword at the mech's chestplate before stabbing into it. 

Samurai X ejects from the suit, heading straight for our ship! Lloyd and Harumi are still on the mech as it starts to fall into the clouds below. "No! Lloyd!" I call out, my vision turning purple. Cole grabs me and holds me back from jumping after them. "(Y/n), we need you here! Lloyd will be fine." The Black Ninja explains. 

We are interrupted as Samurai X flies over us and lands on our deck, drawing a sword. We turn to face her, our weapons at the ready. Kai scoffs and Jay groans. "You're supposed to be our friend!" Jay shouts in anger. All of us let out a battle cry lunging at the android. Kai thrusts both his katanas at her but she blocks it. 

They both struggle to hold their ground but I intervene tossing a barrage of knives at the Samurai. She jumps back and flips avoiding most of my knives, blocking the rest with her sword. Cole runs and jumps into the hair, slamming his hammer down on the floor. Samurai falls back and loses her balance at the force. 

Jay jumps and knocks her down with a kick. All of us approach the fallen Samurai, her sword knocked to the ground. She quickly grabs it and tries to stand. Our weapons are pointed at her and Jay demands, "Drop. Your. Sword." "I. Shall. Comply." Samurai X says, throwing her sword overhead. 

Zane and Nya run out and see the sword pass them by. We all watch in horror as the sword falls into the remaining thruster causing it to explode. The ship shakes and we spiral down to the ground below, smoke trailing behind us. "Grab onto something! We're going down." I yell over the noise. "She got the last thruster." Jay calls out, holding onto secured crate. "Any ideas?" Kai asks, clutching the side of the ship. 

"Not a one." Zane answers. "Yeah, me either." Kai groans. "Pray to Wohira!" Jay suggests. "That is not helpful!" Nya scolds. "Perhaps if we can create enough drag with the sails, we may be able to achieve a controlled crash." Zane points out. "One problem with that." I say before pointing up. Zane looks and see the sails, large holes burns through them with P.I.X.'s laser fire. 

Jay suddenly gasps. "The rain! It could slow our fall!" He calls out. We all look to Nya and she shrugs. "It's worth a try." She says, racing to the front of the ship, standing on one of the dragon heads. Nya raises her hands before turning back to us. We watch her as we hold tight to the ship and each other. My gaze hopeful, I mouth, "You got this." 

A look of determination crosses her face and she turns around grunting and raising her arms dramatically. Our fall starts to slow and the ship evens out as Nya manipulates the rain. "Ha! It's working!" Jay shouts happily. We look forward to Nya and see the trees of Primeval's Eye racing ever closer. "Brace for impact!" Kai calls out. 

Cole runs below deck, probably to protect the baby while we clutch onto the ship. The Bounty hits the treeline and we all hold onto dear life as the ship is thrashed about, breaking through the trees and the brush. The ship stops and the dust clears. All of us groan and Kai laughs as we start to recover and stand. 

"Everyone okay?" Jay asks, helping Nya up. Walking over to Kai, I hold out my hand to help him up. He takes it and hugs me tight. I embraced him too, happy we survived the crash. We hear Cole join us as he asks the baby, "You okay too, little buddy?" I turn and see the infant coo happily in his arms. Kai and I walk over to Nya, Jay and Cole. 

"We need to find Lloyd and Harumi." I state immediately. "What about the Bounty?" Cole asks. "Lloyd and Harumi are lost in a dangerous jungle with who knows what." Kai points out. Zane and P.I.X.A.L. walk up, an arm wrapped around the other's side. Glad to see she's back to normal. "We can repair it. Or at least get it flying again." Zane informs us. 

"Good you all can do that while I find Lloyd...and Harumi." I quickly corrected myself. "Not alone you're not." Nya says, walking over and wrapping an arm around my shoulder. "Be careful." Kai urges. "We will, big brother." Nya tells him before the two of us leap off the wreckage and sprint towards the forest.

......................................................................

Lloyd (POV):

Harumi and I climb out of the hole we were hiding in as the beast chasing us stomps further and further away. I struggle to climb with my injured arm, using my sword to help pierce the earth as I go. Harumi used the map to wrap my arm in a sling, but it still hurts. As I reach the top I look around before nodding to Rumi that the coast is clear. 

Once we're completely out, I lean on my sword trying to catch my breath. "Are you okay?" Rumi asks, concern in her voice. "Yeah. Just...need a second." I tell her, trying to adjust my sling. The moment I touch it I wince and Rumi approaches me from behind. "Let me see." She says as she tightens the sling. We lock eyes with each other and smile. 

"How's that?" Rumi asks. "Oh, um. Good. Very close. I-I-I mean, snuggly. I mean, snug." I ramble awkwardly. Why am I acting like this? "Are you sure we are heading the right way?" Rumi asks, looking at the map on my sling. "Pretty sure," I answer, looking at the map on my arm. "If this map is right, there's a river that runs through Primeval's Eye that way." I point my sword in the direction. 

"And the river leads straight to the hidden Oni Temple that holds the third mask." I tell her. "Uh, I don't know, Lloyd. Maybe it would be smarter to turn back and try to find the others. I mean, your arm is still pretty bad and we're all alone out here." Harumi worries. "I'm doing okay. And, anyway, we can't take the chance. If the Sons of Garmadon get to the mask first, they'll have all three." I point out. 

"Okay, but I want you to rest that arm for a while and let me take a turn." Rumi tells me with a smile, taking my sword and walking ahead of me, slicing down vines blocking our path. She is amazing. You almost couldn't tell she first picked up a sword yesterday. I look back in the direction of the ship before following her. Even though we have to do this, I am worried about the others. Worried about (Y/n). I hope he's ok.

......................................................................

The two of us made our way further into the jungle, Harumi still clearing our path with my sword. "Stuck in a palace all your life, did you ever imagine you'd be in a place like this?" I ask, wanting to make conversation. "Hacking my way through Primeval's Eye? Not so much." Rumi answers before she stops swinging and turns to me. 

"But to be perfectly honest, I always dreamed being with you." She admits, smiling at me. I rub my head nervously looking away as we continue walking. I don't know how to feel about this. I look down to the map on my sling and make note of where we are. "So, according to this, we're almost to the Black River. We just have to get past this part that reads "Strangler's Path."" I tell her, trying to change the subject. 

"Did you say "Strangler's Path?" That's cheery. Why is it called that?" Rumi wonders, looking over her shoulder at me as she chops. "Places like these always have colorful names. Half the time, it doesn't mean anything. The Caves of Despair, Blind Man's Eye, Hiroshi's Labyrinth." I list off, making gestures to them with my free hand. "Probably just some bored mapmaker with a wild—" I scream as I'm pulled to the ground by something before being dragged away. 

"Lloyd?" I hear Harumi call out to me. It looks like vines are wrapped all around me as I'm pulled across the jungle terrain."Harumi!" I yell out. The map making up my sling flies off as I'm dragged. I reach out trying to grab something to stop myself but I'm being pulled to fast, weaving through the jungle. I look for arms and see where I'm being dragged to. 

The vines around me are coming from a collection of similar vines weaving around one another in the shape of a tree. A roar of some kind comes from the vine mound as I get closer to a slowly opening hole. "You've gotta be kidding me." I exclaim. I'm about to get eaten by a tree! I flip myself over trying to grab something before I'm dragged in. 

I watch as my sword is thrown overhead and pierces the vines around my feet. The creature make a painful wail before retracting and closing the hole behind me. I look from the sword to Harumi who's a few feet away from me, running close. "I-It just—It tried to—You just threw—How did the tree—" I ramble as I slowly back away from the groaning tree. 

Harumi runs to my side, the map in her hand. I stand up and back up to her. Watching the tree and the protruding sword before us. "Where did you learn to throw a sword like that?" I ask her. "I-I don't know. You were gonna be eaten. I-I got lucky, I guess." She tells me with a shrug as we hold hands. "Luck?" I exclaim pulling away. 

"You were clear over here—" I point but Harumi cuts me off by pulling me close and kissing my cheek. I look at her, my eyes wide in surprise. "Should I not have done that?" She shyly asks. "Uh...no. I mean—" I mutter but come to a stop as I see a familiar face. Looking over her Harumi's shoulder, (Y/n) stands a few feet away, a look of pure shock on his face. 

"(Y-Y/n), what are you doing here?" I call out, causing Harumi to turn to him. "I...I came to find you two. Hope I'm not interrupting." (Y/n) retorts, his voice vacant of emotion. "(Y/n), I'm so glad to see you. Are the others alright?" Harumi asks kindly with a smile. (Y/n) looks at her, hesitating before answering. "Good...to see you, Princess. Yeah...the others are fine." He tells us.  

"They're fixing up the ship. Figured you two could use some help getting to the temple." (Y/n) said, in a deadpan tone. "How did you find us?" I ask. "Nya and I found the mech and your note. She flew the mech back while I followed your tracks." (Y/n) responds, trying to act cool but sounding empty. He saw, didn't he. That's why he's acting so closed off. 

"Here." Harumi hands him the map. "We were heading to the Black River before Lloyd got attacked." Harumi states. "Is your arm okay?" Harumi asks, turning to me. "It feels alright now." I tell her. "Then let's get moving." (Y/n) orders bluntly, walking off with the map. Harumi takes my sword and runs to catch up with (Y/n). This is going to be a long trip.

......................................................................

Our trek through the forest is silent since (Y/n) found us. Harumi walks in front of the both of us, whacking through plants with my sword. (Y/n) stands in the middle of Harumi and I, peering over the map and guiding us through the jungle. I stand closely behind him, feeling a bit awkward. "(Y/n), about what you saw." I whisper to him. 

"I don't want to talk about this right now." He answered sharply, not lifting his gaze from the map. "(Y/n), please. Don't do this again. Don't shut me out." I quietly tell him. (Y/n) doesn't answer, so I run in front and take the map from him. "Talk to me." I plead. "You wanna talk? Fine." He states, continuing to walk as I walk backwards to face him. 

"I find it ironic how you were saying you couldn't trust me when I clearly can't do the same with you." He growls, keeping his voice quiet. "It broke me to see her kiss you Lloyd. And it is taking every bit of control I have not to lash out at you and her. Because that is not who I am." (Y/n) says through gritted teeth. "(Y/n), it didn't mean anything." I tell him. 

"Really?" He retorts, walking away from me, fuming. "Yes!" I say. I want you. But before I could tell him that we hear Harumi scream. Both of us sprint after her, worried about what danger she might be in. We find her in front of a boat with a stylized version of my fathers face painted on the hull. "The Sons of Garmadon insignia." I state. 

"But...what is it doing here?" Harumi wonders. I hop onto the boat and hold out my hand to help Harumi up. I then offer it to (Y/n) but he shrugs it off and climbs up himself. Harumi hands me my sword and I turn around, keeping a lookout. "Is anyone there?" Harumi asks me. "No. It's abandoned." I tell her, sheathing my sword and walking through the riverboat. 

Taking in all the details in the broken down, cobweb-covered room, I spot a familiar inscription on the desk. "The same map?" I wonder, holding up our in comparison. "I thought no one knew where the Oni Temple was located." Harumi remembers. "Then why are there two maps?" (Y/n) asks, standing next to us. "The Quiet One must have sent an expedition looking for the temple." I suggest. 

"Doesn't look like they got very far." (Y/n) states looking around the dusty room. "Yeah, but where did they go? What happened to them?" I wonder. Harumi reaches down and picks up an object near the map. Holding up a set of keys she turns to us with a smile. "Maybe we'll have better luck." She says optimistically. 

Harumi walks out of the room to the helm of the ship. She inserts the key and the engine turns over. Harumi tries again before the engine purrs and comes to life lurching the boat forward. She and I laugh happily as we start moving down the river. "Our luck is definitely turning around." I state happily. 

Looking over I see (Y/n) doesn't feel as lucky. He just picks himself up after getting knocked over, remaining emotionless. I hold the map out to (Y/n) and he quickly snatches it from my hands. I sigh and go grab the nearby rod before walking to the front of the boat. I check the depth of the River with the rod as Harumi guides us along, manning the helm. 

"It's going to turn left up here." (Y/n) warns her. With a turn of the wheel we follow the river left I check the depth of the river again. "Five feet. That's okay." I feel ahead with the rod and hit something hard. "A little left. More rocks." I call out, and Harumi moves accordingly. "Not too fast. It's pretty shallow here." I advise, causing our speed to slow. 

"That's good. Keep her steady." I tell her. We float in silence until Harumi speaks up and asks a question. "Do you think it's really possible to bring someone back?" "I've seen a lot of things in my lifetime. At first, I didn't. Now I'm not so sure." I admit to her. Harumi then asks me a question I wasn't expecting, one I wasn't ready for. "Does any part of you want to see your father again?"

I stare down at my reflection contemplating my answer. Part of me does but I know I shouldn't. "I had Ninjago's greatest villain as my dad. It was an...unusual relationship. But as much as we fought, I still miss him." I answer while checking the rivers depth. "A little to the right." I call out to Harumi. 

"You knew him. The good and the bad. You knew who he truly was. You're lucky. Most don't get to know their parents like that." (Y/n) chimes in. I look over to (Y/n) in surprise. He rarely talks about his parents, let alone how he feels about them. We share a look, like I'm seeing (Y/n) on the inside instead of the hard surface he now hides behind. Is he trying to tell me something? 

(Y/n) looks away prompting me to go back to prodding the river. "I would do anything to see my parents again." Harumi admits. "I don't blame you...either of you." I say, glancing at (Y/n). Catching his gaze before I continue. "But if they bring my father back, the thing that scares me the most is..." I trail off. 

"He won't be the man you recognized?" Harumi asks. I turn to her and nod. "He wasn't the greatest villain." Harumi states in a tender voice. I see (Y/n) raise an eyebrow at her over Rumi's shoulder. I smile at her comment, my mood brightening a bit. "Oh, no? You probably grew up thinking its Morro or the Devourer. Don't tell me...Pythor." I guess, pointing at her. 

"No. It's the one you never even knew was there in the first place, the one that gets away." Harumi answers ominously. "The Quiet One." I state, looking out into the jungle and poking at the waters again. I wonder what this Quiet One is up to? "Well, whoever they may be, they sure aren't "quiet" anymore." (Y/n) says with a scoff. I smile at his comment before focusing on the river.

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"We should be only a few miles out. If we keep straight on, the river will take us directly to the Temple." (Y/n) tells us, pointing out over the map he holds. Harumi and I give him a nod before going back to our duties. "No rocks. No rocks." I mutter as I use the rod to search for any obstacles. Meanwhile, Harumi's voice fills the air as she drives the boat further down the river. 

A beautiful but eerie tune. "The spider's in the house. Sleep sleep." She sings. I lean down proding the water further ahead of us. "The spider bit the mouse. Sleep deep. Don't wake up or else you'll find a spider in your mouth." As the last word is sung, my pole hits something hard beneath us. 

"Stop the boat." I call out holding up my hand. Rumi obeys and the boat comes to a stop, the engine sputtering down. "There's definitely rocks in the water. We need to find another—" My pole is snatched from my hands as I speak. "What the heck?" I exclaim, not believing what I'm seeing. Something under the water grabbed it and all three of us watched as the rod weaved across the water, before being pulled underneath. 

"It's definitely not a rock. We're not alone." I tell the others. The boat then rocks upward, almost as if something hit us from below. "What hit us?" (Y/n) asks, trying to get his bearings as the boat steadies. "I'm thinking what the earlier expedition ran into." I answer him. I turn my gaze to Harumi. "Start the engine. Go. Go." I order. 

Harumi steadies herself and walks back to the helm, turning the ignition key. A large scaley hide breaches the still waters beside us before descending back down below. "Hurry." I urge her. The engines come to life and we zoom across the water, the force of which pushes me down to the floor. The boat hits a bump or two as I steadily rise up. 

Running to the back of the ship I see a large shadow under the water swimming after us. "What's in the water?" Harumi asks over the roar of the engine. "Whatever it is, it's gaining on us. Is this as fast as it can go?" I ask her. "It won't go any faster." She says, a worried look on her face. A giant claw rises from the depths sending a small wave our way. 

Rumi screams and (Y/n) races to join me, his sword drawn. "We need to lighten the load." I tell him. (Y/n) nods before helping me toss crates over the side of the ship. (Y/n) and I watch as the creature's shape swims under us, causing us to race to the front to try to see it. The beast flies out of the water, rocking the boat back. Harumi screams. "What do we do? Aah!" Harumi yells as the ship rocks. 

The boat steadies itself, making us think we are in the clear. That moment of peace doesn't last long as two giant claws slam down on the back of the boat. We are pushed forward as the creature slinks back under again. (Y/n) and I draw our swords just in time as a large armored claw rises from the water, coming right at us. 

(Y/n) and I cross our swords trying to block it together but it cuts our swords like it was made of string. We toss our broken weapons aside. The creature rises in front of us, first it's antennae and claws before roaring, rasing it's claws to attack. When suddenly it lets out a screech and scurries away. "Why did it stop?" Harumi wonders. "I don't know. It's like something kind of...scared him off." I observe. 

All three of us make it to the back of the boat. "We need to get off this boat." (Y/n) says as the boat floats further down river, picking up speed. "The current's pulling us away." Harumi tells us. "What current?" I ask, looking further across the water. The river was still minutes ago. The ship turns forward as we ride across some rapids. 

Harumi runs to the wheel trying to steer us through but from her expression no luck. (Y/n) is knocked to the ground and tries to make his way to me. I look down the river and my eyes widen in realization. I know why there is a current. "We need to go the other way." I tell the others. "The other way? That thing is back there." Harumi points out. 

"Reverse. Reverse." I shout, pulling a rope up fro the ship's outer hull. We are getting too close. Harumi pulls on the lever and nothing happens. "It doesn't work." She calls out. "Grab onto something. Now!" I order them. I pull (Y/n) up and drag him over to Harumi with the rope. Quickly, I try to secure the rope around the three of us and the helm. (Y/n) gasps as we all look up and see the source of the fast current: a waterfall. 

Both Rumi and (Y/n) share a worried look, each holding onto me. "Hold on." I say as the boat races over the edge. For a moment we are flying before gravity pulls us down. The rope lets loose and all three of us are tossed from the boat. (Y/n) reaches out for me and pulls me into his chest. With a large splash we hit the water below, our ship sinking far beneath us. (Y/n) broke the fall and slowly drifts away from me. 

Darkness starts to fill my vision but I try to shake it off and push through. I won't lose him. I swim out to grab (Y/n), knocked out and bubbles floating from his mouth. I won't let you go. Latching my arm around him I pull him close before inspecting the water. There's Harumi! I swim to her and grab her as well, using all my strength to swim us to the surface. 

Harumi starts to come to beside me and looks around, air bubbles flying out of her mouth as she flounders. I place a hand on her and point up. Harumi looks and sees (Y/n) hanging unconscious from my shoulder and gives a worried look. She swims to the other side of the (r/c) Ninja and helps me carry him up.

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We break through the water gasping for air. There is a large rock nearby and we swim over to it. Harumi and I pull (Y/n) onto the rock before we flop onto the ground ourselves. (Y/n) starts to stir and cough, water spilling out of his mouth. I roll over and look at him as he catches his breath. His wet hair frames his face and those beautiful eyes, all of him sparkling in a wet glaze. 

(Y/n) eyes meet mine in relief. The (r/c) Ninja starts to stand up, making note of our surroundings. "We survived." He gasps, still catching his breath. I stand up, looking around as well, spotting something in the distance. "Guys, we made it." I tell them. "Yeah, barely." Harumi sputters. "No. I mean, we made it to the temple. Look." I say, pointing out across the distance. 

(Y/n) and Rumi follow the direction of my gaze and spot a large rock structure hidden at the base of the four waterfalls. A rock structure carved in the likeness of the Oni Masks. "Looks like our luck is turning around." (Y/n) states, gazing across the water at our destination.

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Chapter Text

Lloyd's POV:

Things are still tense between me and (Y/n). We were able to put our problems right now aside and things almost seemed normal. But then he closed himself off again once we got closer to the Oni temple. (Y/n)'s demeanor growing darker with each step. I lead our party as we make our way behind the waterfall to the temple's entrance. The entrance is carved out of the stone in the mountain, resembling the shape of the Oni masks.

Stalagmites and stalactites line the mouth of the entrance, like teeth, leaving very little room in between for people to slip through. It's honestly quite impressive. I can just imagine how Mom would react to this. She'd love it! "The Oni Temple." I exclaim turning to Rumi and (Y/n). Harumi's frown turns to a smile and (Y/n) averts his gaze from mine. We make our way single file through an opening between the tall stalagmites. The cavern opens up with a large pit before us.

Pillars rise from the darkness below to make a way across the gap. I leap onto one of the pillars and look back to the others as they do the same. (Y/n) jumps across with ease but Harumi loses her footing as she lands. She shrieks and fumbles to regain her balance. Thankfully, she doesn't fall and looks at me with a relieved smile. I hop across three more pillars, barely stopping myself from slipping on the third one.

I watch as rocks fall down the chasm not making a sound. Must be pretty deep. I turn back to (Y/n) and Harumi with a warning. "If the last mask is here, it won't come easily. Trust me, I've had my share of deadly tombs. Follow my every step." I tell them. (Y/n) nods and follows the path I had taken, Harumi leaping closely behind him. I jump forward onto a pillar with a black symbol on it.

Once my feet hit the stone, the pillar starts to crumble beneath me. As I sink lower and lower I quickly leap towards the next pillar, reaching out to grab onto it. "Lloyd!" Harumi and (Y/n) shouts, fear in their voice. The pillar I was on falls apart and fades into the darkness below. I latch onto the edge of the pillar I jumped to and pull myself up. I groan saying, "Okay. Don't touch anything with that symbol on it." I turn back to the others.

Harumi looks frightened while (Y/n) looks relieved, both sending me a nod understanding my warning. Not too far away is the remnants of a stone staircase leading up, deeper into the cave. As I hop onto the next pillar and inspect the stairs, the cave starts to rumble and shake. "What's happening?" I yell, small rocks falling from the ceiling. "I don't know. I didn't touch anything." Harumi calls out, her voice sounding frightened.

Looking past her, I see the stalactites slowly lowering. "Rumi, (Y/n), the exit." I point, causing them to turn and look. Their faces turn to ones of horror. "No. No, no, no, no, no." Harumi stammers. (Y/n) and I jump from pillar to pillar trying to reach the entrance but it is too late. With a sigh I say, "Guess there's no turning back now." "Uh, guys..." (Y/n) says, drawing our attention to him.

We look and see pillars at the edge of the cavern are disappearing into the darkness below. "We need to move. Now!" (Y/n) shouts. All three of us hop across pillars, some of them crumbling underneath us as we jump. When we make it to the stairs we get no rest as they start to fall apart as well. Harumi shrieks as she nearly falls behind me. I catch her in time and pull her after me as we ascend the staircase.

"Almost there." I called out, as we ran up the stone stairs. At the top of the stairs is an entryway with a long corridor leading further into the earth. We all jump as the stairs start to run out, barely making it to the corridor. Panting hard, we smile, all of us thankful to survive and to rest even for a moment. "(Y/n), are you alright?" I ask, looking beside me at the out of breath Ninja. He just nods, still trying to steady his breathing.

"You okay?" I ask Harumi between breaths. "Yes *huff* but it's hard to see." She points out. An old torch hangs nearby and I quickly grab it. With a blast of my Energy, the torch erupts in green flames, illuminating the corridor. As we walk down the hallway we see another entrance ahead. Upon entering it both (Y/n) and Harumi gasp. "What is this place?" Harumi wonders, looking all around her.

It's a large circular cavern with a circle of wide pillars in the center holding up the ceiling, stalagmites jutting out of some areas of the floor. A carved wall takes up half the room and is covered with ancient paintings. It connects the entrance we just came through to another doorway further down, probably leading even deeper into the Temple. The wall section beside us shows paintings of the Oni, a temple, and them searching the land.

"It's their story." (Y/n) mutters, marveling at the mural. "Who?" Rumi asks. "The Oni. See there?" I point out, illuminating more of the wall painting. "It's amazing." I state, in awe of the artwork. "They must have built this place." Harumi states. "When the First Spinjitzu Master escaped their world, they must have come looking for him." I say, inspecting more of the wall. "Who?" Harumi asks. "The Oni." I tell her again, turning towards her.

"He was the key to winning their war with the Dragons." I explain, passing a depiction of two dragons, a large sun painted above them. "Ninjago was a new world to them. The Oni must've holed up here. Explains all the traps. Must not have wanted any visitors." I suggest as we walk around the room, gazing at the paintings. I look over to (Y/n) and see him fixated on a section of the mural in the corner.

Two Oni figures run hand in hand with the First Spinjitzu Master from a large Oni horde. He brushes his fingers over them tenderly. What's going on with him? "(Y/n), you okay?" I call out to him. He flinches, quickly turning to me. "Y-yeah, I'm fine." He responds. I raise an eyebrow at this. Something is clearly wrong. "Guys, I found something." Harumi says, drawing our attention to her. She walks down the other entryway, both of us following from behind. All we see is more stone and I sigh, saying, "This is a dead end."

"Look, the symbol from earlier." Harumi says, pointing towards a large rock with the mark from earlier painted on it. "Maybe you can break through one of these walls." She suggests. "If the symbol is on here, this one must be booby trapped." Harumi points out. "Hmm. Worth a shot." I say, summoning a glowing ball of energy in my fist and aiming at the stone wall beside the marked one. "Wait!" (Y/n) shouts, causing me to stop. "What's wrong?" Harumi asks.

"The Oni put these booby traps in place to protect the mask. If any got this far, the Oni knew they'd avoid this mark." (Y/n) explains. "What do you mean?" Harumi asks him. "We need to go this way." (Y/n) says, pointing towards the wall with the mark. "But you see the water? If we break the wrong wall, this whole room will flood!" Harumi observes, sounding worried. "You're right." I say to Harumi.

"But so are you." I add on, turning to (Y/n). He looks at me in surprise, almost shocked that I would believe him. It's still hard to, with all the lies between us...but I want to try. "The Oni were smart and crafty, and their traps would be just as clever to keep outsiders from the mask." I state. "But the water." Harumi gestures to the small streams running down the walls, and across the floor. (Y/n) looks at me expectantly for my answer.

"I guess we'll have to trust (Y/n)." I state, locking eyes with the (h/c) Ninja. (Y/n) eyes go wide and a tint of pink spreads across his cheeks. I hand Harumi the torch summoning energy to my fist again. I hope this works. Blasting the marked wall it starts to slowly break into a million pieces, the small rocks falling to the ground. Once the dust clears a passage is revealed behind the rubble.

I let out a relieved laugh and smile at Harumi and then at (Y/n). A small smile spreads across his face and I'm taken aback for a moment. He hasn't smiled since our fight. Maybe there's hope for us yet. "Let's go." I tell them, Rumi passing the torch to me. Walking down the passage leads us into an even bigger chamber. A large circular platform, elevated from the chasm below and decorated with gold designs, sits in the center of the room.

Five bridges connect to the stone circle and at the center of it is a raised pedestal, engulfed in purple flame. The last Oni mask floats in the fire, unharmed. All of us gasp at the sight. "The Mask of Hatred." Rumi mutters in awe. We make our way across the bridge leading to the mask. I look back as Harumi and (Y/n) pass me by. The stone under my foot gives way and I fall over the edge quickly grabbing onto the bridge.

Looking over my shoulder, I watch our torch fall down the dark chasm below us. Harumi and (Y/n) each grab one of my arms and pull me up, the latter of the two sighing with relief once we are all back on solid ground. Our eyes seem to meet and we stay for a moment just staring into each other's eyes. (Y/n) helps me up and we turn our gaze from each other to the mask, floating a few feet away from us. Harumi walks ahead of us, going straight towards the purple flames. (Y/n) holds my hand tight, probably afraid of letting me go after nearly falling. It warms my heart and I smile as he guides us forward.

When we reach the platform, Harumi is the first to approach the mask. She tries to grab it from the flames but winces. Harumi tries again only to be pushed back, some invisible force keeping her from taking the mask. "Only someone with Oni blood can take the mask." Harumi turns to us, gesturing towards the pedestal. Almost like we can read each other's thoughts, (Y/n) and I look at each other both stunned by what she said. How did she...

Neither of us move looking between each other and Harumi before I stepping forward, seemingly to (Y/n)'s surprise as his eyes go wide. My fingers slip out of (Y/n)'s grasp as I walk towards the pedestal and away from him. I look at my hands, unsure if this will work. Reaching out, the fire doesn't faze me and I grab the mask. Once I do the purple flames surrounding it disappear and I pull the mask close. The Mask of Hatred is purple, with a wide malicious grin and hypnotic yellow eyes. I turn back towards the others, still looking at the mask.

"Can I...Can I see it?" Harumi asks excitedly, reaching for the mask. I pull away from her, not meeting her eye. Something's not right. "I just want to see it." She says innocently. "How did you know?" I ask her, squinting suspiciously at her. Things haven't been adding up with Harumi. Harumi blinks, taken aback by the question. "It's an Oni Temple. It's safe to assume only an Oni could take it." She states walking toward me with a smile.

I turn away from her again, clutching the mask close to my chest. The explosives at the Palace which Hutchins didn't set... "No. How did you know that I was part Oni?" I retort, not looking at her. When we raced Ultra Violet for the Mask of Deception... "You're related to the First Spinjitzu Master. He was an Oni." Harumi explains, walking up behind me and placing a gentle hand on my shoulder. Zane's cover being blown out of nowhere... I turn to her. "But I never told you that." I state before turning away again.

"Jay, (Y/n), and I were alone when Mystake told us the story. You were never there." I point out, eyeing her warily. The sword in the jungle... I hear (Y/n) step forward and see him place a hand on her shoulder. "Harumi?" I hear (Y/n) hesitantly ask, wanting an answer. "Then I must've heard it from Jay." She suggests before, grabbing the mask, trying to pull it away from me. I shrug her off, taking the mask back. And she just smiles like nothing is wrong. No.

Harumi turns her back to me as I look over my shoulder at her. She can't be... "I don't want to believe it." I sternly say. But it all fits. "You're the Quiet One?" I ask, my voice quiet in horror. (Y/n) steps back in shock. "How could you say that?" Harumi asks, sounding hurt. She turns to me with a sad expression. I can barely meet her gaze and I walk away. How could she? "It all makes sense now." I realize sadly, leaning against the pedestal.

Glancing beside me, I see (Y/n) clutch his hair tightly, his face a mix of emotions. Trying to wrap his head around it all. I've been lied to...again. I trusted her. I think furrowing my brow and shutting my eyes. ""The greatest villain is the one you never knew was there in the first place." You said that." I spit, shooting daggers at her over my shoulder. "Oh, yes. I'm the criminal mastermind. How could I have done this?" Harumi asks me, still acting innocent. She puts a hand on my shoulder and turns me towards her.

"Do you realize how silly you're sounding?" She asks, almost pleading with me. How could she? Harumi rubs my chest tenderly, looking down. "I...I love you." She tells me, looking straight at me with a longing gaze. Harumi starts to lean in to kiss me but I look past her. Over her shoulder (Y/n) stands speechless, looking at us. His eyes are wide in horror from what we have pieced together and his expression looking heartbroken, just like back in the jungle. When Harumi kissed my cheek...and he watched. No...Not again.

I push Harumi away. "Stay back." I say, the anger spilling from my voice. "Lloyd." Harumi says, pretending to sound hurt. I walk back, away from her. (Y/n) stalks around us, a knife appearing in his hand from his sleeve. Harumi follows after me, clutching her hands in her fake sweet demeanor, her face acting all cute and sad. (Y/n) comes beside me, he stands defensively with his other hand in his robe, probably clutching one of his knives. The knife he already has at the ready stays hidden from Harumi's sight. "You only wanted me to get to the mask you couldn't find." I tell her

The mask finally falls from Harumi's face and her voice is deeper, no longer sweet and innocent. "I didn't need you to find the mask." Harumi hisses in an aggressive tone as we circle the pedestal. I back away from her and hold the Mask of Hatred behind me. "It would've been mine had your idiot friend not stolen Wu from us." Harumi explains, grinning evilly.

My mouth drops and I stare at her in disbelief. "The baby is Master Wu?" I exclaimed, my voice hushed from the shock. "Oh, that's right. You didn't know." She says smugly, placing a hand on her hip. "I knew to keep you close." Harumi says seductively as she approaches (Y/n) and I. "Both of you." She admits walking between the two of us, running a hand across either of our shoulders.

"Unfortunately not everything goes to plan. Give. me. The mask." She orders, reaching behind me to grab the mask. I shrug her off, (Y/n) and I stand on each side of her. "No," I tell her, backing away. "I can't let you bring my father back. Not like that." I state, determined. "Well, then if you won't give it to me..." Harumi coos checking her nails. In a blur she spin-kicks me to the ground with a "Hua-yah!" The mask knocked from my grip.

I look up and see (Y/n) charge at her, a knife flying at her with another knife already drawn. But Harumi ducks out of his way and kicks him from behind, pushing him to the ground beside me. We both quickly stood up, taking defensive positions. The mask is on the ground between the two of us and Harumi. "Then I will take it!" She yells, glaring at us.

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Third-person POV:

All three fighters look to the Oni Mask before them, sending a stern gaze to their opponent, or opponents. Each stand ready to fight, holding a defensive position. Harumi screams and leaps for the mask but Lloyd blasts it away before she can reach it. All of them watch as the mask flies through the air, landing on the other side of the platform barely missing the edge.

Harumi quickly gets up, glaring at the Ninja. (Y/n) lunges at her but she quickly dodges and raises her fists together before bringing them down on the back of the Ninja's neck. (Y/n)'s unconscious body falls to the ground and Lloyd yells, tackling Harumi to the ground. "Why?" Lloyd asks her as she struggles under his grip. "I never asked to be a princess." Harumi tells the Ninja before turning the tables and pressing Lloyd onto his back.

"Just as I never asked to be an orphan, but you gifted me that." She says through clenched teeth. Lloyd puts Harumi on her back again, pinning her down, asking, "How did I do that?" "The Great Devourer. It was too strong." Harumi rises. "Too big for you and your friends." Harumi shouts as she leans over him, getting in Lloyds face. The white-haired woman looks away and laughs.

"Oh, Lloyd. You aren't so naive to think no one got hurt that day did you?" She asks, her voice teasing as she strokes the Ninja's chest. Lloyd pushes her back and readies his fists. Harumi looks up from the ground. "It wasn't until the almighty Lord Garmadon saved the day!" Harumi yells, rising to her feet. "But he couldn't save my family." Harumi reveals, her voice pained. She looks away before continuing, her tone more quiet and somber.

"It was too late. I died that day, too." Harumi groans, shutting her eyes at the painful memory. Lloyd looks back and sees the Mask of Hatred is within range. Lloyd summons his elemental power, his hands glowing with bright green energy. "Give me one reason not to say goodbye to it right now." Lloyd threatens. Unbeknownst to either of them, (Y/n) starts to stir regaining consciousness. Harumi turns quickly to the Ninja.

"I'll give you two. You want to see your father again, and you love me." She states in a wicked tone. Lloyd hesitates. I do feel something for her, but is it love? I'm so confused, Lloyd thinks to himself, closing his eyes and looking away from her. "Ah, your emotions. You can't get rid of them, no matter how much you want to. It's hard to think, isn't it?" She taunts him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

As she speaks she slowly pulls a knife out behind her back. "I felt those feelings too." Harumi admits, smiling kindly to Lloyd. "We truly are kindred spirits." She coos before swinging her dagger at him. Lloyd barely dodges and (Y/n) pounces at Harumi, knocking her back. Harumi quickly gets up to attack him charging at (Y/n) with her knife. He dodges with ease, with near superhuman speed.

Tired of her antics, (Y/n) grabs her arm and does Spinjitzu, taking the Princess for a spin before throwing her over the pedestal. As (Y/n)'s tornado fades, he lets out a beastly roar and his eyes glow purple. "(Y/n)?" Lloyd asks, concerned by what he just saw. (Y/n) turned to Lloyd with his eyes still aglow, huffing wildly. Lloyd gasps and steps back. At this reaction, (Y/n)'s expression softens and his eyes return to normal, looking worried. 

He opens his mouth to say something but is cut off by a maniacal laugh. Harumi rises from behind the pedestal, raising her knife at the Ninja. (Y/n) pulls a knife from his robe to meet hers, standing in front of Lloyd protectively as they circle one another. "You played us. Even played us against one another." (Y/n) snarls, turning his knife towards her. Harumi smirks. 

"Yes, that bit with the glowing Crystal really did a number between you two. Had to keep you both on your toes enough for me to get what I want." She states, grinning proudly. "You helped put the bug on the ship. You caused the crash." Lloyd accuses her. "A calculated risk. Your friends were so close to the truth. I couldn't let them stop me." She says, nonchalantly. "Feeding the poor, acting scared? It was all an act?" Lloyd asks, getting riled up. 

"Ah, yes. The damsel in distress." Dramatically falling back on the pedestal, her hand on her head. "You ninja really are from another time." Harumi teases, looking back at the Ninja while rubbing her knife. "The Emperor and Empress?" Lloyd shouts. "They were never my parents!" Harumi loudly yells, aggressively pulling the knife at the other. She calms herself down, rubbing her jacket. "To protect Ninjago, I had to repress those feelings." She says coolly. 

Looking over to the nearby mask she says, "I had to wear a mask until the time came for me to take control. I had to be smarter. Stronger!" Harumi exclaims. "You were never protecting Ninjago." (Y/n) says with a scoff. "You were only after revenge." Lloyd adds on. "Tell me, Lloyd, (Y/n), how many times has Ninjago almost fallen on your watch? How many times have you ninja failed—" Harumi asks, throwing her knife at the Ninja. 

(Y/n) catches it between his fingers and hands it to Lloyd. "—and let others pay the price?" Harumi finishes. She scoffs, placing a hand on her hip. "You're not our protectors. You're just a bunch of little kids playing dress up." She jabs, approaching slowly. Lloyd and (Y/n) draw their knives at her as she continues her rant. "Ninjago is my home too. And with your father by my side, we can return it to glory." Harumi tells them, almost in their faces. "Give it the leader it truly des—" She quickly turns and runs for the mask.

Lloyd yells, leaping at her and tackling her to the ground, knocking the mask from her hands. They both roll across the platform before getting up and charging at the other. Harumi tries to punch Lloyd but he blocks her with his arm. When she tries again with her free hand, Lloyd dodges and wraps her fist under his arm. Harumi pulls back and takes the knife from Lloyd's hand, spinning in a circle slashing him in the arm.

The Quiet One charges at him and kicks him to the ground before leaping back. She laughs, raising her knife to attack the fallen Ninja but a loud roar calls both Lloyd and Harumi's attention. A black form slashes Harumi's hand and knocks the knife out of her hand, the Princess wincing at the pain. She turns to see a tall black Oni, its face matching the shape of the masks. It's skin black with ornate, ebony horns jutting from its head.

Glowing purple eyes glare at her. Sharp black talons flex, covered in with the woman's blood, and spiny bat-like wings extend from the Oni's back. The creature crawls on all fours in front of Lloyd and roars, protecting him from Harumi. Lloyd looks up to the creature in awe and notices it is wearing familiar (r/c) robes. "You weren't the only one wearing a mask. Princess." The creature growls in a deep baritone, glaring at Harumi as they say this. "(Y/n)!?" he whispers. The Oni turns its head and winks an eye at Lloyd before turning back to Harumi, snarling at her.

A look of fear can be seen in Harumi's eyes but it quickly melts into determination. Breaking into a run, Harumi goes for the mask, picking up her fallen knife. "No!" Both Lloyd and (Y/n) shout, the latter's voice much deeper than normal. Oni (Y/n) leaps over the pedestal and pounces between Harumi and the mask. Harumi stops in her tracks and watches as Lloyd takes the mask. "I guess this is goodbye." Lloyd says smugly.

He throws the mask over the edge, letting it fall into the abyss. "No!" Harumi shouts, jumping off the edge after it. Lloyd and Oni (Y/n) watch in horror as she goes over the edge. Both hear a metal clang and look down to see Harumi's knife piercing the stone below. Harumi caught the mask and is hanging on tightly to the handle of her knife. Lloyd reaches out to her. Harumi looks down at the mask in her bloody hand then back up to the Ninja.

A wicked smile spreads on her face breaking into a maniacal laugh as she dons the Mask of Hatred. The eyes of the mask glow purple as the Oni magic courses through Harumi. "Okay, so that didn't go as planned." Lloyd tells (Y/n), backing away from the edge. A blur leaps from the chasm and lands across from the Ninja with a loud thud. Harumi, wearing the Oni mask, has some kind of stone armor all over her body, black tendrils falling from the mask's head.

"This isn't going to be a fair fight." Harumi's voice calls out, deep and distorted. She tosses her knife at Lloyd's feet feeling confident in her new power. "What did the mask do to you?" Lloyd asks warily. "The Mask of Hatred. A taste of invincibility. Too bad for you." Harumi exclaims in her monstrous voice. She screams and charges at the Ninja. Lloyd slides to the side and tries to slash Harumi's leg with her knife.

The knife breaks in half when it makes contact and Harumi chuckles to herself. As she turns to face Lloyd, a fist strikes her, knocking her to the side. (Y/n), still in his Oni form, growls at the stone Harumi, flexing his claws. Harumi snarls back and screams as the two charge at each other. (Y/n) flaps his wings and flies up, spinning in place, before thrusting his legs out to kick Harumi.

Harumi staggers back from the hit before swinging at (Y/n), striking his side. The Oni winces from the blow and Harumi swings again. (Y/n) flies up, dodging her attack, before soaring back down balling his fists together. The force sends Harumi to the ground, groaning in pain. (Y/n) raises his clawed hand, summoning Crystal to jut out of the floor and pull Harumi up.

Before she can recover, (Y/n) clenches his hand into a fist, causing the Clearstone Crystal to spread and encase her. Thinking it's over, (Y/n) turns to Lloyd with a smile on his black face. Lloyd scoffs and a grin spreads across his face, staring in awe at his boyfriend. The Crystal behind (Y/n) starts to crack and Harumi bursts out, landing a blow between (Y/n)'s wings.

The Oni is sent flying forward, going limp like a ragdoll, rolling across the floor and barely stopping at the edge. "No!" Lloyd calls out, running to the edge but Harumi grabs him. She tosses Lloyd hard against the pedestal. Harumi pants, circling the Ninja and letting out a weak chuckle. "Hurt me all you want, but I'm never gonna let you get away with this." Lloyd growls. "Physical pain can only hurt so much. I intend to do far worse." Harumi coos in her deep voice, her hands on her hips.

"Then what do you want?" Lloyd asks, picking up the broken knife and holding it out to her fearfully. Harumi screams at him, sounding truly horrifying. "I want you to feel the emptiness that I feel! When your father is reborn, he won't be the man you recognize! His soul will be gone and I want his cold hands to destroy you!" Harumi shrieks in an inhuman voice. "You're a monster! I'll never feel what you feel." Lloyd tells her.

"You're one to talk Lloyd. Your friend here is quite the monster." Harumi taunts as she approaches the unconscious Oni, holding him up by the neck. "Don't touch him!" Lloyd shouts. ""You'll never feel what I feel," Lloyd? Then let's start with him." Harumi says before throwing (Y/n)'s body over the edge. "NO!!!" Lloyd screams, the horrific sound echoing across the cavern walls. He charges at Harumi with unbridled fury, fists ablaze, but she sends the Green Ninja flying with the back of her palm. "You won't get away with this!" Lloyd yells, rising to his feet.

"We will see." Harumi says over her shoulder as she slowly walks off. "Fight me. Let's end it here." Lloyd says, fists raised to fight. "I'm already two steps ahead." Harumi tells him before running out the way they came. What is she...,Lloyd thinks before his eyes go wide in realization. "No. Don't!" Lloyd calls out. Harumi breaks through the passageway and hits the other wall, the one holding back the flood waters, before she makes her escape. 

Water shoots up out of the ground, quickly filling the temple and the mask chamber with water. "Where's Nya when you need her?" Lloyd mutters as the water rises to his neck. Soon the room is filled with water, submerging Lloyd. The Green Ninja swims around trying to find a way out. He gasps, air bubbles flying from his mouth. A black spinning shadow isn't too far away from him in the water and it starts to get closer and closer to him. Lloyd bares his fist but lowers them just as fast when the shadow approaches him. 

(Y/n) pulls down his wings and smiles at the blonde, still in his Oni form. Lloyd swims to hug the man, happy he is alive. (Y/n) embraces him, holding Lloyd close but keeps it short knowing they don't have much air left. He presses Lloyd even closer to his chest and thrust his wings down, flying down through the water at a remarkable speed. The Oni Ninja takes Lloyd through a series of underground tunnels in an effort to find a way out. Soon enough they find a current and follow it. If there is a current, there is an opening somewhere.

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(Y/n)'s POV:

With Lloyd wrapped in my arms I use the kick of my legs and the beat of my wings to guide us along the current. I never knew I could shapeshift like this! And Lloyd seems to be taking it well. At least I hope he is. Ugh. Focus (Y/n)! Survive first, worry about your relationship later! Further up, I see the current is leading out of a hole in the mountain. It should be big enough to let Lloyd through but at my current size? There's no chance.

I toss Lloyd ahead, shooting him out of the opening. Quickly, I think of my normal self, my size, my skin, my face, my hair. I can slowly feel myself shift back, a tingling sensation pulsing through my body with each change. Looking down at my arm I see it seems to have worked and just in time too. The hole is now much bigger at my normal size and soon enough I fly out of it.

As I soar through the air I notice a large group of people below, but I can't tell who they are through all the brush. Looks like I'm going to find out, I think to myself as I fall down towards the gathering, flailing my arms to grab onto something. My palm is met with a vine and I quickly latch onto it, holding close to slow my fall. Please don't hit the ground. Please don't hit the ground.

Everything finally stops, my hands still clutching the vine. I open my eyes and see I am hanging above my friends with the Sons of Garmadon surrounding us, weapons drawn. Lloyd is carried bridal style by Zane, who must have caught him. Harumi stands there with a smug smile on her face as she clutches the Mask of Hatred. "Hey, guys. What did I miss?" I awkwardly ask as I hang above the tense crowd.

A low growl pierces the air, turning our gaze. Large claws snap above us and Harumi lets out a scream. When I hop down to the ground, everyone, both the Ninja and the SOG, runs away as the beast charges at us. The creature slips into the water as everyone makes it to a small island, towering stalagmites speckled all around. All of us make a defensive circle around the big guy, Killow if I remember right, our weapons at the ready.

"What is that?" Killow exclaims, pointing at the creature as it briefly breaches the water. Lloyd, Harumi and I look at each other and nod. We know just what we are facing. "It's back." Lloyd says ominously. The crab creature from the river. Silence is in the air and all of us are anxious, clutching the weapons in our hands. No one knowing where the monster will pop up next. One second passes and then another and another.

Everyone is on guard looking around. When is this beast going to attack? Did it just give up? Nothing seems to happen. Everything is quiet. The creature roars as it rises from the water, landing on the island straight on top of us. All of us are scatter like rats, the beast swinging its claws crashing into the stalagmites or crushing them in its large red claws. The giant crab lets out a roar, swinging its tail knocking over people and more stalagmites to the ground.

Most of us try to find cover, hiding behind some of the remaining stone pillars on the edge of the island. Some of the SOG thugs charge at the creature, trying to attack its legs or body. The crustacean easily slaps away these feeble forces with a swing of its claws and tail. Across from me, Nya thrusts her spear at the monster but It grabs the weapon in its claws and lifts it up, Nya still holding it tight.

Zane and I run to the beast's side, him notching an arrow on his compact bow while I reach into my robe, grabbing two handfuls of throwing daggers. "Over here!" Zane and I call out as we loose our weapons. They don't even make a scratch but it grabs the crab's attention. The monster crab turns its gaze to us and I watch as Kai leaps across its back towards his sister. He jabs his katana in between the opening of the claw and pulls it open, freeing Nya.

As both of them fall to the ground, Kai landing beside us, Lloyd slides in front and sends a large blast of energy at the beast. It doesn't even affect the thing. I summon a large Crystal from the earth to jab the crustacean's side. The best it does is push it back before it turns its focus on me. The beast is a blur on approach as it charges at me. I pull a Crystal from my robe and quickly turn it into a shield, prepping for the impact.

"Leave him alone!" Someone shouts and I see a green figure leap into the beast's face, wrestling with its pincers. "Lloyd!" I call out to him. The creature spins as Lloyd wrangles with its pincers, many of the others seeing this as the perfect opportunity to attack it. I see Mr. E donn the Mask of Vengeance slowly followed by Killow with the Mask of Deception, lifting the stone debris around us and tossing it at the large crustacean.

I charge at the beast, growing my shield and breaking into a run. Like a battering ram I slam into the creature, pushing it to the side. It thrashes about from the hit and Lloyd is tossed from the mouth before sliding to a stop a few feet away from me. Nothing is hurting this thing! We see Ultra Violet run at the beast letting out her iconic banshee call before getting smacked to the ground. Kai, Zane and I run to Lloyd and all four of us start to do Spinjitzu.

Soon enough, Jay, Nya and Cole join us and we circle the creature, distracting it. The monster crab looks around in confusion as we spin. I hear a whistle ring out and soon enough see the Sons of Garmadon stop attacking the creature and run off. The crustacean tries to attack us but the others spin out of the way as Kai and I leap our tornados up onto the crab to give it a whack on the head.

All of us join up and charge at the beast with our tornados. From our united front, the creature retreats, slinking away into the water. Zane leaps into the air and slams down on the water, using his powers to freeze the creature in Ice. The rest of us spin to a stop in front of the downed beast, feeling pretty awesome. Jay looks behind us and exclaims, "Hey! They're getting away!" We all turn and see the Destiny's Bounty rise and start to fly off into the air.

"Get me close!" Lloyd orders, pointing to the flying ship. "I'm on it." Nya tells him. "Zane, I need an assist." She turns to him, Zane giving her a nod. With a wave of her arm she commands a stream of water to rise from the lake and float before us in the rippling shape of a long ramp leading up past the head of the trapped crab. Zane freezes it and Lloyd spins into action. Using Spinjitzu he zooms up the ramp, leaping onto the crab's tail.

The crab beast flicks it and Lloyd is shot up towards the Bounty. We watch closely as Lloyd flies up past the ship. His tornado dissipates and he starts to fall. I hold my breath and cover my mouth. Lloyd lands onto the anchor as it rises back up the side of the ship, and I let out a relieved sigh. "He did not just—" Jay exclaims. "He just did." Kai says in awe. Lloyd starts to rock the anchor back and forth before using its momentum to toss him up onto the main deck of the ship.

Immediately after he lands, the large Killow grabs Lloyd. The brute lifts him from the ground laughing as Lloyd struggles to get free from the giant fists. "They have Lloyd." Kai states. "They have the masks." Cole adds on. "No." I state, turning away from the others. I walk far enough away and shut my eyes. I focus on the ground below me and a large Crystal platform jutts out of the ground and launches me into the air towards the Bounty.

Focusing again, I imagine wings sprouting from my back. With a look over a shoulder I see my bat-like wings flapping away to fly me the rest of the way to the Bounty. I land on the lower balcony on the back of the ship and look back to my friends. I see the monster crab break free of the Ice and approach them. "No." I say under my breath, my voice wavering.

Hearing a ruckus from the room inside and I hid along the wall keeping my frame away from the windows beside me. Looking back, the island is getting smaller and smaller in the distance. Forgive me guys. I hope they will be alright. With a sigh, I summon a knife and peek through the window. The coast is clear and I make my way inside stealthily. Time to save my boyfriend again.

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I stayed out of sight as the SOG flew the Bounty into Ninjago City. There are too many of them for me to get to Lloyd and get out safely so I'll bide my time, waiting for the right moment. While I could just go full Oni and tear them apart I feel drained. Mystake warned me that shape shifting was much like a muscle. It takes training and discipline to maintain and use on repeat.

Under Mystake's training, I've only been able to change small parts of me: my hands, my arms, my feet, etc. This was the first time I ever fully changed into someone else. Something else. My Oni form. The moving ship comes to a stop with a slight shake, prompting me to peek outside the room I'm hiding in. Once the ship docks I follow closely behind the Sons of Garmadon as they cart off Lloyd and the masks. Looking around, I notice that we are on the inner moat of the Palace of Secrets. Why would they bring the masks back here? I wonder.

From the ship, I watch as most of the Sons of Garmadon are spread throughout the Palace and those left push Lloyd up the wooden stairs on a nearby rockface. Harumi is with them and I can't even recognize her anymore. She wears a dark leather outfit with accents of dark blue and metal spikes jutting out of parts of it. Her white hair is straight and falls freely compared to her usual bun.

Red paint is smeared across the top half of her face. The true face of the Quiet One. She looks almost savage. I can hear her berate Lloyd from here as they head up the steps to the separate piece of the Palace above. Shockingly, it wasn't as damaged as the rest of the Palace from the attack a week ago. Once Harumi and her thugs take Lloyd up far enough, I sneak off the ship and pull my daggers.

I leap onto the rock face on the backside of the building above, jabbing my daggers into the rock before I start to climb. The shade hits me and as long as I stay quiet no one should see me. But just in case, I grow out my wings again before shifting their color to match the rock I climb. I may not have much energy to transform fully but I can manage that. Barely. My wings surround my backside like a cocoon as I continue to climb, camouflaging me.

My thoughts linger on my friends and the danger I left them back at the Oni Temple. I know they are all trained warriors but I'm concerned about their chances against that beast. None of our attacks did anything to hurt it, let alone stop it. I pant under my wings as I continue to stab and climb, stab and climb. And Lloyd. He's with another beast entirely. Harumi, I think, my face grimacing.

She creeped into our home, pretending to be a friend. I thought she was our friend. We seemed to understand each other. Was all that an act? A ruse to keep us unaware as she worked against us? Tried to kill us? I don't know what to think. She even dared to touch Lloyd and place a wedge between us. I think, my eyes glowing purple. I'm allowed to feel angry with her now. She deserves my rage, my wrath, and more.

Once I reach the Palace section, my wings retract into my back and I turn my Crystal knives into a long chain with a connecting grapple hook. With a spin and a strong toss I hook it to the roof, giving it a tug to check its hold. I start to climb again, making my way up much quicker with the chain. When I reach the roof I stay low, crawling across the black tiles to see the other side. There is a large circle in the floor made of rings of stone.

Three black symbols are painted atop the rings, a stone dais protruding from the center of it all. Before the floor section is a mechanical contraption with a large chain running through it, a cage connected to either end. On the left I'm shocked to see the familiar face of Misako in that cage. She's been missing since she went to search for Wu after he disappeared. What is she doing here? I look to the right and within that cage is my emerald ninja.

Looking around I see a few SOG thugs setting up cameras and placing wood planks down to expand the platform. I count about eight of them. I stand up and step back a bit, summoning a large Crystal gauntlet over my hand. I'm going to need a running start for this. Sprinting across the roof I jump off the edge, flying through the air.

As I fall down I slam my Crystal covered fist into the ground sending a powerful shockwave out. The thugs are either knocked off the platform into the waters below or into the red ornate walls before falling to the ground unconscious. "(Y/n)!" I hear Misako and Lloyd exclaim happily. I look around, making sure there is no one else before running towards the machine holding their cages.

"I'm gonna get you both out of here." I say as I start to inspect the controls for this thing. Before I can do anything, a loud clap echoes across the half-open room. I turn to the source and spot none other than the Quiet One herself standing in the doorway. "I had a feeling I'd see you sooner or later my dear (Y/n). Congrats on getting past the guards. You truly live up to the ninja title." She taunts, clapping while slowly walking towards me.

"Why thank you. I'll be taking my friends now if you don't mind." I say in a stern voice, Crystal katanas growing from my palms. Harumi laughs before tilting her head at me. "Oh, (Y/n). I can't let you do that." She says, looking amused at my effort. "Come do something about it then." I tell her, drawing my blade in front of me in a defensive stance. Harumi reaches behind her, a katana appearing in her hand. It clangs as the tip hits the ground.

"Very well then. Let's dance!" She says aggressively. We lunge at each other swinging our blades. Making my blades into an X I block hers, quickly pushing her back and swinging up and around for another attack. I'm not holding back. I don't want to hold back anymore. Harumi dodges and blocks my swords at every turn. Her sword tries to jab my side and I stagger back.

She leaps towards me, bringing down her blade. I'm forced to lean down as I block, Harumi gaining the advantage over me. "You fight well, (Y/n). There is always a place for you at my side in the Sons of Garmadon." She offers. "You weren't there that day after all. You haven't wronged me...yet." Harumi threatens, pushing down even harder. Pushing back, I flip back trying to catch my breath. 

Screaming I run towards Harumi, attacking high with one sword, causing her to block before flipping the katana in my other hand. I knelt down and slash her leg, drops of blood flying from her cut. She screams and takes a knee, holding her injury. I swing my swords at her again but she bends back, avoiding my swing. Harumi spins and pushes up from the ground, kicking me back.

I growl at her, my eyes flashing purple. She smiles trying not to show any weakness as blood continues to roll down her leg. "Foolish, (Y/n). Here I thought you were better than your pathetic friends." She hisses through clenched teeth. Her strong facade breaks and she winces. I take this opening and lunge at her with my Oni speed, bringing my swords up, knocking hers into the air.

With a spin and a kick the Quiet One falls to the ground panting. Placing a foot on her stomach I point my sword at her neck. "I win." I tell her, my eyes seething with anger, glowing bright. I'm ending this. I bring my sword up and watch as she raises a hand in front of her face, looking away in fear. As my blade comes down it stops an inch from her neck, my limbs frozen still. My arms are jerked back, the katanas thrown from my hands at the sudden force.

I rise into the air as I hear a deep booming laugh to my left. Mr. E, Ultra Violet and Killow walk forward, smiling wickedly. Killow wears the Mask of Deception and has a hand outstretched at me. Harumi huffs and grins as she stands up. "Heh. You lose." She taunts. Killow flings me towards the cage contraption, pulling my limbs out. I groan at the pain and struggle to break free.

"No! Don't hurt him!" Misako cries. "Leave him alone!" Lloyd shouts. "Aww, don't you fret Lloyd. Why would I give up perfectly good leverage?" She teases, turning to look at me on the last part. Killow brings me down to her level as Harumi walks forward. She squishes my face in her hand. Her grip tightens and gets more painful, causing me to wince.

"Mmm. What a cute expression. Can't wait to see how else you'll react once I'm through with you." Harumi teases in a sultry voice as she pulls out a knife. "Lloyd, I want you to watch closely." She calls out, bringing the blade to the side of my face. More Sons of Garmadon enter the room and Harumi and her cronies start laughing.

**************!!!!!!!!!WARNING!!!!!!!!!***************

This rest of the chapter mentions some intense topics, including blood and torture. This may be triggering for some readers and can skip past if need be.

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Night has fallen and the ritual is set up on the platform below us. After Harumi had some more "fun" with me, Killow and Ultra Violet connected the chain holding up Misako and Lloyd to my right and left arm. My bruised body is pulled in whichever direction the other goes as I hang limp in the air. The strain opens the cuts Harumi gifted me on my arms, blood running down them and my body.

Looking down through the haze of my pain I make out Harumi's form smiling maliciously at the torture she put me in. "So is this who you felt your parents were keeping you from becoming? She's a real piece of work." I spat angrily. "Watch it, (Y/n). Or do I have to give you another lesson?" Harumi grunts, pointing at me as a warning. "Can't believe I sympathized with your lies. "Feeling trapped." I hope you get trapped behind bars for the rest of your life! Ah!" I cry out as Harumi pulls the lever, lowering Lloyd to the platform and pulling my right arm.

Blood spews out and I scream. "Stop! Stop it!" Lloyd yells out from below me. "Don't worry, Lloyd. It will all be over soon. For all of you." Harumi coos. She turns and leaves, followed by Ultra Violet and Killow. "(Y/n)? (Y/n), are you okay?" Lloyd asks from below, his voice sounding very worried. "Yea-Yeah. I'm fine. Ju-hah-Just peachy." I try to joke, my groans of pain breaking through. "(Y/n)...I'm so sorry." Lloyd says solemnly.

"Lloyd, it'll be okay. The others will-hah-will come for us." I say consoling him as I hang in the air. "No, it's not okay! How can you say that? You're hurt! You're hurt because of me!" Lloyd shouts. "Lloyd..." I say in a gentle tone. "This is not your fault." Misako chimes in with a comforting tone. "No! I should've seen through Harumi. I should have seen through her lies! She's hurting you to hurt me. Both of you." Lloyd groans woefully.

"Son, you couldn't have known." Misako states. "She betrayed us all, Lloyd. Besides, I-hah-should be saying sorry. I lied too." I admit, hanging my head down. "(Y/n)—" Lloyd starts but is cut off when Harumi walks back into the room. I can imagine he's glaring at her and the thought brings a small smile to my face. Looking down, I see her and Ultra Violet approach Lloyd with a small bowl.

"What are you doing?" I hear Lloyd ask. "The three Oni Masks alone won't bring back your father. For the ritual to work I also need a hair from the son—" She explains. Lloyd grunts, probably from Harumi plucking his hair. "—and from the wife." Harumi states, turning towards Misako. With a push of the lever by Mr. E, Misako is lowered to the platform and Lloyd rises up to my level. I whimper in pain, my right arm now feeling the strain.

"Don't touch her!" Lloyd calls out. I try to rally some strength pulling forward, but my chains clang and snap back into place. Misako winces as Harumi plucks her hair. "You." Misako says, her voice seething in anger. "And I already collected one from the brother, dear little Wu. So are we all ready to begin?" Harumi taunts Misako. "Don't worry, Mom. My friends will stop this." Lloyd states. 

"And if they try, they'll have to make a choice." Harumi says with a wicked smile on her face. "A choice? What do you mean?" Lloyd asks. Mr. E pulls the lever and Misako lowers, my arm being pulled even further. "No!' Lloyd shouts. Pain shoots through my arm, my torso, feels like everywhere. I shut my eyes and breathe deeply, trying not to scream. "Save your mother, or their beloved Green Ninja. And either way, your (R/c) Ninja loses." Harumi states. 

Lloyd grunts and I weakly turn my head to look at him pushing against his bars. "Let me out." Lloyd demands. "Whatever happens, that man she wants to bring back is not your father. You must not let it happen." Misako calls up. I watch as Lloyd tries pushing against his bars again. Misako being pulled down has raised his cage a little above me. Ultra Violet and Mr. E leave the room as Harumi walks to the pedestal. Lloyd quits his struggle and turns slowly to me. 

"(Y/n), can you summon a Crystal? Or break free of the chain?" Lloyd wonders in a hushed tone. "I-I can't. I'm...sorry. I'm too weak and I-I can't focus. It hurts so much." I whimper quietly, tears forming in my eyes. Lloyd eyes meet mine and they look devastated, his eyebrows furrowing in concern. "It's ok. You're going to be alright. Ok? Just focus on me." Lloyd says comfortingly, trying to reach out to me through his bars. 

"I'm really sorry Lloyd. I should have told you everything. I didn't want to lose you." I cry, a bit hazed from the pain. The tears start to fall and I can't look at him. "Hey, hey, hey, hey." He coos, trying to keep me from crying. "(Y/n) look at me." Lloyd whispers. I listen and slowly look up to him. "I'm right here. And I'm not going anywhere." He states quietly, flashing a small smile. I weakly smile back. 

A loud commotion can be heard nearby. "S-Sounds like a big fight." I mumble. "Could be the others." Lloyd suggests. "Be quiet." Harumi shouts, turning to us before focusing back on the stone dais. A Son of Garmadon thug comes up and pulls the lever, lowering Lloyd and raising Misako to the same level, a little bit above the platform. My arms get a little relief as neither are being pulled as much. Killow, Mr. E, and Ultra Violet walk in a minute later, each with an Oni mask in hand. 

"Good. You've brought the masks. Any trouble?" Harumi asks. "Nothing the others can't handle." Killow tells her. "Then the ceremony is ready." Harumi states. "I get it. I hurt you. And you want to hurt me, but this isn't the way. You don't have to do this." Lloyd exclaims. "We will stop you." I groan out, my voice ringing out strong. The Sons of Garmadon laugh at us. "Hear that? They'll stop you." Ultra Violet teases Harumi. 

"You put too much faith in your friends." Harumi snaps at us. "And you put too little." Misako tells her. Harumi glares at her before turning to her three stooges. "Place the masks in position." Harumi orders her cronies. They follow her command and place a mask on one of the black symbols I noticed earlier on the stone circle, making up a triangle position. "Clotho venge. Clotho decer." Harumi starts to chant, the rings making up the stone circle around the dais start to tremble. "Clotho ha-eed!" Harumi yells.

With that the Oni Masks float up from the ground, almost like they're coming to life, facing Harumi. The stone rings start to spin underneath her as the masks float. "Lloyd, (Y/n), it's starting. Where are the ninja?" Misako asks worriedly. "Clotho venge." Harumi chants turning to the Mask of Vengeance. It erupts into a ghostly bright purple flame. "Clotho decer." She chants again to the Mask of Deception before it catches fire.

"Clotho ha-eed!" Harumi yells, the Mask of Hatred engulfed in a purple flame. It erupts into a ghostly bright purple flame. She guides her hand from one mask to another and as she does, a bright thread of energy follows her, connecting between the masks in the shape of a triangle. Harumi raises her hands happily and the triangle spins and gets bigger, the spinning rings underneath Harumi glowing purple. "Don't, Rumi! This isn't you!" Lloyd calls out to her.

She smiles at him smugly and turns her back to him, chanting loudly. "Clotho venge! Clotho decer! Clotho ha-eed!" The glowing triangle turns into a circle as the flaming masks spin around the dais. More energy starts to swirl around Harumi and the pedestal, wind blowing wildly around the vortex. "Clotho venge! Clotho decer! Clotho ha-eed!" Harumi chants again, yelling upwards.

"Rip the fabric between realms. Oni I call upon you! Connect me to...the Departed Realm!" Harumi shouts. As she does this the stone rings stop spinning, returning to the symbol before but outlined in an eerie purple glow. The vortex around Harumi stops spinning, returning to a triangle above Harumi. The triangle crashing into itself and a dark hole ripples above while the Oni masks float below. The portal is open.

Powerful wind gusts blow around the platform, causing Harumi to duck and cover her head and me to close my eyes. I peek them open and see everyone but Harumi pushed back, every flame around the room is blown out. The cages beside me sway back and all of us look at the portal warily through the howling wind. "Son!" Misako calls out, reaching out to Lloyd's cage. Lloyd tries to break free of the cage again with no luck.

Harumi stands in the eye of the storm laughing victoriously while everything flies around her or is pushed back by the wind. Looking past her I see two guards in the doorway get knocked out and disappear behind it. Is that...the ninja? "I call upon thee lord of many names. Lord of Destruction! King of Shadows! Lord Garmadon!" Harumi calls out into the portal. "Garmadon!" Harumi yells. "Who...calls me!?" A familiar voice groans from the portal.

"It's him." I say in shock. "Leave my father alone!" Lloyd shouts. I start to smile as I see our friends run into the room attacking SOG members. Cole knocking half of them out with a swing from his hammer. "The ninja." Harumi says, sounding annoyed. "Wait! There's a trap!" Lloyd warns. Jay and Kai look from Lloyd and I to each other, looking a bit confused. "Start the wheel." Harumi orders. The three stooges run to the lever and Killow pulls.

My right arm and I are pulled out as Lloyd's cage starts to lower. I scream at the pain but scream even louder when I see Lloyd go towards the water. "LLOYD! AH!" I cry. "My son. Help him. Help them both!" Misako pleads as Kai and Jay run to the edge to watch Lloyd. "You have to stop the ceremony." Lloyd tells them before he goes under. "HELP LLOYD!" I scream.

Kai and Jay heed our pleading and perform Spinjitzu pushing back Mr. E, Killow, and Ultra Violet. Meanwhile, I look over and see Harumi continuing to call out to Garmadon. "Follow my voice. Feel my presence. Join me, Lord Garmadon!" "Who...are...you?" Garmadon's voice asks in a low tone, almost growling. "We have to stop her!" Kai shouts. "Or maybe we should save our friends from dying." Jay suggests sarcastically.

I see Zane try to shoot Harumi but Mr. E blocks his arrow. Cole then charges at the android before he attacks Zane. "I can't get to her!" Kai says being pushed back by the strong wind. "Who's gonna save Lloyd?" Nya asks. "On it." Cole answers, charging towards us. He swings his hammer, trying to hit Killow but he hits the lever knocking it the other way.

I'm yanked in to my right as Lloyd rises and Misako falls. "AH!' I scream again. "Lloyd!" Misako shouts before submerging into the water. "Let's get you both out of here." Cole tells us after knocking back Killow and Ultra Violet. "Don't help me, help her." Lloyd says. "Oh, yeah. Coming, Mrs. G." Cole calls out over the edge. Cole tries to pull the lever but Ultra Violet runs up and pulls from the other side.

"Hm, hello again." She teases, pulling the level back and forth. As they do, I'm tossed around like a rag-doll, pulled to and fro. "AH! Stop pulling the lever!" I shout. Cole grunts shouting, "A...little...help?" Kai performs Spinjitzu and zooms toward us before leaping up and slamming his sword down on the lever, breaking it. "Oops." I hear him croak. "Kai! You— AHHH!" I cry out as I'm abruptly pulled in the left direction.

My arm is drenched in blood at this point and I'm feeling pretty lightheaded. "Lord Garmadon, follow my voice. Follow the shadows." Harumi yells over everything. Wait, what about my Garmadon?  Looking down I see Lloyd's cage under the water again. "Lloyd! Guys help him!' I call out to them through my haze of pain. "Someone get him out of the water." Misako shouts. "Nya, you are the Water Ninja." Jay points out.

"You don't need to be a Water Ninja to do this." Nya says, throwing her spear like a javelin, pinning the chain above Misako's cage into position. "Cole, get Lloyd up. Use your lava arm." Misako orders. Cole raises his arm, his hands glowing with orange power. He grabs onto the gears below me and manually turns them, pulling Lloyd up and loosening the strain on my arm. Once Lloyd is up, Cole runs over to his cage and pulls apart the bars.

"Thanks." Lloyd tells him. "You both okay?" He asks Misako and I, sounding worried. "Stop her, son." Misako says sternly. "Take her down." I groan. Lloyd and Cole turn towards Harumi, who laughs maniacally at the stone dais. Lloyd tries to push through the swirling wind and energy, grunting under the strain. He is unable to make it, the force of it all pushes him down. "It's too fast! Maybe you can do Spinjitzu to get inside." Jay advises.

Lloyd starts to perform Spinjitzu but stops when a loud laughter rips through the air. Garmadon's laughter. "That doesn't sound good." Kai states, pulling down his hood. "What's happening?" Zane asks, taking off his hood, the others following after him. "You're a Nindroid! You give answers, not questions." Jay whines. "It's him." Lloyd says fearfully. Lightning surges around the temple distorting it's shape as we hear Garmadon groan.

"I hear you...feel you. Come...be mortal again! Your son wants to stop you, but I want to make you stronger!" Harumi yells upward. Garmadon screams and we are all blown back but the wind gusts. Thankfully the chains kept me in place. Nya almost flew off if not for Zane. "It is I, Harumi. Come to me. Follow my voice." Harumi tells Garmadon. "Ha...ru...mi?" Garmadon's voice wonders.

"Your time is now!" Harumi states. Lloyd groans and I watch him break half-way through the wind tunnel. "You cannot stop it. The end is near." Harumi taunts Lloyd. Lloyd performs Spinjitzu trying to reach her. The wind start to push him back prompting the others to join him. Their combined velocity counteracts the velocity of the wind but it's still not enough to break through. Jay has to do it too. "Jay!" Kai calls out. "On it." Jay responds.

Jay starts to join them but Killow quickly grabs his arm, pulling him back. I spit blood onto Killow's face causing him to stumble back so Jay can join the others. The Ninja push through the vortex and reach Harumi, Lloyd lurches forward pushing her off the dais. Garmadon voice screams out, drifting away. "No." Harumi exclaims. The portal starts to warble looking very unstable before closing completely. "No!" Harumi shouts, raising her hand to the sky.

The Oni Masks fall to the ground and Harumi falls forward onto the pedestal knocking over the bowl of hair. "Father..." I hear Lloyd say, bowing his head solemnly. Across from us all, we hear lots of footsteps echoing up the entryway getting closer and closer. A large group of police officers run to the top of the stairs. "Come on, boys, let's clean the house." We hear the Commissioner say before running onto the platform with his team of police officers.

The Ninja help the police pin down and arrest the fallen Sons of Garmadon members, locking them in handcuffs. Two officers approach the fallen Princess as she comes to, looking over her shoulder at them a bit dazed. "Madame, you are under arrest." One of them tells her. "No!" She exclaims, jumping back. The two officers grab her by the shoulders and carry her out. "Don't touch me!" She shouts as they drag her away. Now that brings a smile to my face.

I watch Cole and Jay try and pin down Killow, chuckling lightly at their antics. "We got him. We got him. We got him." They keep on saying. Lloyd pulls the lever lowering Misako and lets her out of her cage. He then grabs one of Kai's swords and jumps up to me, cutting my chains. I fall into his arms weakly, the Green bean holding me tight. "I got you (Y/n). I got you." He whispers into my ear.

Wrapping my arms around his neck and my legs around his waist, I lay my head on his shoulder as he carries me down. Misako approaches us smiling at me and then Lloyd. "I-I'm sorry. I'm sorry I dragged you both into this." Lloyd mutters, solemnly. Misako sighs, I can see the worried look she has. "You didn't drag me into anything. This isn't your fault." Misako tells him comfortingly. "What she said." I croak, clutching Lloyd tighter.

"I should have known. I should have seen through her." Lloyd states, beating himself up. "Your only mistake is that you're trusting, and good, and see the best in people." Misako consoles him. "Not anymore." Lloyd says tensely. I look away, trying to ignore the bad thoughts that come with that statement. He doesn't mean that for you. He doesn't mean that for you. Misako walks us down as Lloyd carries me to the entrance.

Once we reach the front steps of the entrance the police officers start cheering for the Ninja. They deserve it. They did good today, I just got in the way. Lloyd carries me past the police cars and sets me down with an EMT, before starting to walk off. "Hey." I groan, grabbing his arm, the act of which causes me to wince. Lloyd turns back to me, holding my hand tenderly like I might break if he squeezes too hard. "Don't let her control your heart. She's not worth it." I advise. Lloyd gives me a weak smile, no response, and walks away.

The EMT cleans up my cuts and checks me for more injuries but I'm tuning her out, focusing on Lloyd. I see him walk to a police car holding our white-haired foe. Harumi tries to talk to him, probably trying to trick him again. It wasn't working, and whatever Lloyd said back, she didn't like it. I hear her scream from here and see her charge at Lloyd before he shuts the doors in her face.

The car speeds off, taking the Quiet One away. But when Lloyd turns, his stare is cold and vacant. It sends a shiver down my spine. Something inside him broke. Mystake warned me this mission could break him and I should have listened. I should have protected him from all this. I'm sorry Lloyd. I'm no better than I was a year ago. I failed you.

......................................................................