A/N: Hey guys! I am so, so, so sorry. Work has been getting to me and there are days a guy like myself needs to rest from work. Not to mention, trying to complete the chapters I have planned when work keeps preventing me from doing so. Believe me, it is becoming a pain in the ass to being delayed and I work as much as I can to make sure everything is well. Anyways, enough of that, let us begin the new chapter of the story, shall we?
Henshin!
'Thought'
LOCKSEED
Within the forest of Helheim, several Inves graze the lands, or feast upon the fruits of the forest, minding their own business. But in one portion, a small group of Inves was feasting upon a mass of fruits they collected, savoring the taste and enjoying what they collected.
But… As they do eat, one large tree root began to darken, as what looked to be black, and red vines pour out as they slither towards the Inves, and as one of the vines touches the Inves, it soon screeched in pain as the vines began to consume the Inves, only leaving a husk left for the others to see, only for more vines to spread out to the ones close by.
The large tree itself was normal but the seal that was on it glowed softly before going back to normal. However, a crack was finally visible on it but it didn't break. It needed more… something that can cause it to be released from its prison.
"Just… a little… more…" the voice inside muttered.
In Earth, in the Overwatch base, Lapis was sleeping soundly. That was until his eyes opened quickly as he sits up, looking around.
"Another dream…" he muttered, looking at his hand. He could never forget what he did in the battle that sealed away that monster and himself. Even memories of his home when everything was so peaceful… until it brought destruction to his people.
He just hopes that monster doesn't escape and finds him. If anything the first thing it would seeking is revenge for its prison. Closing his eyes he fell back onto the pillow to go back to sleep.
In the Talon base, all troops were doing their routines while Reaper, Sombra, and Widowmaker were in a meeting room. With them was Ryouma with his grin, Sid who was fiddling with the S Lockseed and Yoko who was sitting across from the female sniper. They were told about the fight and learned that even with an S-Class Lockseed, Kamuro was victorious.
Sombra chuckled, "Who knew you lost to a teenager."
Yoko frowned slightly upon the comment."I'm more curious on that Lockseed. Out of every lockseed there are, asides the Energy Lockseeds, this one can't exist, yet it does….. Question is, how?"
"It's a discovery for us," Ryouma said. "And a challenge."
"First time you ever said that. You usually praise for making these Lockseeds work with our proto-belts and these ones." Sid noted.
"The Lockseed that Kamuro has, we don't have one of its types and yet he does. It makes you wonder if he found it by luck or discovered it."
"Either way… Overwatch can't have it anymore… His power is on par with the Genesis Riders." Yoko frowned.
"Oh? Sounds like you dislike Kamuro," Sid chuckled.
"Shut it…." Yoko glared at the dealer.
Ryouma pondered for a moment, "Then I think it's time we visit that forest."
Reaper raised an eyebrow under his mask. "What forest…?"
"The forest the Inves come from." The scientist answered. "And I think you should come along."
"If Gaim is there…. Then so will Overwatch. Fine… we'll come…" Reaper said darkly.
Sombra glanced at the group, feeling, for once, concern. There is something Ryouma isn't telling them and add the fact that the Inves roam in that place. 'What is this man hiding…' She frowned in her thoughts.
Overwatch: Key of Destiny
Chapter 10: Unsealed! The Entity of Conquest Rises!
A new dawn rises! But this one was different as everyone was preparing to head into Helheim today, hopefully, to find some more information, and maybe new Lockseeds to combat against the new Genesis Riders. For now, they could only try and figure out what secrets this forest of death has hidden.
Lapis seemed to most focused out of everyone much to some of their surprises. While the young samurai felt uneasy about going into the forest where they discovered the bodies of people who were trapped.
Hana though assured him. "Don't worry. We'll try our best to make sure you don't see anything you don't wanna look at." She reassured.
Enrique slowly nodded, "T-Thanks…" He then glanced at Lapis. "Lapis has been so focused lately…"
"Must be curious on the forest," she noted.
"Probably…"
"Don't worry luv, we won't be that long in there. An hour or an hour a half, at least." Lena smiled, blinking near the two.
Enrique nodded with hesitation before walking away. Lena watched the young samurai as she noticed his current state. Looking at Hana she asks, "He is still having a difficult time after… you know…?"
Hana nods softly, "Yeah…. But he's getting there slowly… He's even asking some more tips and more from Angela and Genji…."
The British pilot smiled, "At least he is getting better. Isn't that what counts?"
"I just hope that he'll conquer it is all…" Hana frowned softly. "I just hope nothing bad happens to him.. if it does…" she lowered her head, recalling Lapis' warning.
"Don't worry, luv." Lena smiled, hugging the idol, "We'll be there to help him out of that hole, especially you."
Hana raised her head before looking away, "I-I don't know what you are talking about…"
Lena grinned, poking the idol's cheek, "Oh… don't think I didn't see you take a few glances at his training a few times… Especially when it's just him." She grinned.
The idol felt her cheeks heat up, "I-It's not like that, Lena!"
"Isn't it?" She giggled, "Then what about those times where you 'let' Enny win at some of your games and get the new high score? I know you can beat him, and you 'use' to, but now? You're letting him win… Because. You. Lo-" Lena tried to finish, only for Hana to cover the pilot's mouth up as her blush was now beet red.
"It's n-not like that! H-He just got better in the game is a-all!" She stammered.
Lena smirked, giggling softly, "Oh? Even at the game you spent hundreds of hours on, and is your favorite game of all time?" She questioned, "You didn't even hold back against that 'No.1 fan' who was able to meet you. You creamed him! Yet Enny was able to? Hmm.. don't buy it."
"I told you it isn't like that!" Hana continued to deny.
"Oh? Then what about this?" she grinned, holding up her terminal as it showed a picture of Enrique sleeping on the gaming couch, as Hana kissed his cheek in his sleep.
Hana's blush rose even more that if one could see steam, it was forming on top of her head. She was on the verge of total denial and embarrassment. "D-Delete that! Now!" she demanded with a stutter.
"Hmmm…. Nope!" she giggled, Blinking away from Hana's grapple.
"LENA! Get rid of that picture!"
"Have to catch me, luv!" Lena giggled, dodging more and more grapple's from the idol as she chased after her once more, only for both of them stopped by Winston.
"I'd suggest you two save this quarrel after we're done with Helheim," Winston said to them both, as he held the two up with his hands.
"Sure thing!" Lena saluted with a smile while Hana glared at the pilot.
"Good. Now, you two best fully get prepared. We're leaving in 30 minutes." He said, placing them back down on the ground.
"Right," They nodded in agreement while Hana still had a small blush on her cheeks. 'Why did I do that…'
Flashback 2 days ago...
Enrique and Hana were playing the idol's favorite game of all time. They did co-op on a story before heading to Vs match, and Enrique actually started to win! He was excited and more confident on this as Hana watched. Though the faint smile on her face showed… she was holding back tremendously on this. Only until the game was over she turned her head to see the teen cheering in victory.
"I finally win!" He cheered.
"Hehe, you actually did, Enrique. Guess you're truly getting better at this than me." She smiled at him.
He flustered upon this, "Come on, you're the number one gamer in the world. I-I can't be better than you."
"But look." She pointed to the score, showing he was now above her old score, as his new score was leagues below it, "You actually did it. You are getting better at this, as well as your regular training."
"Uh, y-yeah... " He nodded, recalling his training with Genji. "At least it is helping me get better for the armor…"
"Hehe, sooner or later, you could be as good as the samurai of the past." She complimented.
The young man rubbed the back of his head with embarrassment before he yawned. Looking at the time, he saw it was already 10:00 in the afternoon, showing they played games for nearly 5 hours. "Well… I think I'm gonna take a nap…" He stood up as he slowly walks over to the couch since it was the closest thing to sleep on. Falling onto it, he slowly falls into sleep.
Hana smiled softly, seeing him sleep but after a bit, she soon blushed softly before getting up. She then walked over to where he was, looking down at him, before brushing some of the hair away from his eyes and face. She then felt something warm in her heart before she slowly leaned in and kissed his cheek softly before parting.
"Enrique… I'm glad I met you….' She said in her thoughts. The young samurai mumbles in his sleep as he turned away. This made Hana blinked with confusion, unable to hear what he said but she shrugged it off before placing a blanket on him before leaving the room.
She quickly shook her head, wanting to push that memory aside. Right now, she needed to focus on the mission, not… that. Calming herself down, she grabs her Buckle and two Lockseeds before regrouping with the others. The others were prepared, everyone having their weapons ready in case any Inves tries to attack.
"Is everyone ready?" Angela asked, looking over everyone.
"Ready!" Lena said. The others nodded before they noticed Lapis was quiet. "Lapis? You alright?"
The young teen raised his head, "Huh? Oh… yeah just in my thoughts is all."
"Then, let's head out." Angela smiled, as everyone soon began to make their way into the ship, finding a Crack to enter Helheim.
The ride was quiet as the members of Overwatch were getting prepared to know this will be the second time for some while for Genji will be his first time to enter the place. "This Helheim you all keep mentioning…" Genji started. "It is the place behind that Crack, I assume?"
"Yes, it is where all the Inves come from," Winston nodded. "As for the size… it is nearly the same size as the planet Jupiter."
"Impressive…. But is it in another dimension, or are we basically warping to a planet out there somewhere?" He questioned, adding the two points they didn't know yet.
"I honestly don't know…" Winston sighed. "I am still trying to find out more about the place and with Yggdrasil knowing more to this, we will find out more if we continue more progress in the forest."
"And the place is crawling with the Inves," Tracer added.
"I remember them." Genji nodded before glancing at the younger members. "I take it something happened when you first entered that place?"
Angela nodded gravely, "Yes… but I think it is best not to discuss it…"
Genji nods, "Understood, Angela." He acknowledged.
[I detect a nearby Crack approximately 3 miles west] Athena spoke through the speakers.
"Looks like we found a Crack to enter through," Winston announced as Tracer used the ship's controls to fly it to the location. As they neared, they noticed the Crack was near the mountain.
"Mount Fuji…" Genji recognized as the ship was landing. "It seems it chose to appear here."
"Guess it fits home with places near the environment?" Pharah noted, "Could be some connection."
"We might find out in the forest," Hana said with determination.
They all felt the ship land before the ramp lowers to allow the members of Overwatch to exit as they look at their surroundings. "Coast is clear…" Pharah said, motioning the others to come out of the ship. "No sign of Talon around."
"Or those Yggdrasil punks," added Tracer.
"Let's hope we don't encounter them," Winston said grimly as he uses a canister to pick up some fruits for research. "Remember to wear the masks to prevent the smell from entering your noses. Hana, Enrique, Lapis, you three wear the belts. I think the use of those buckles prevents the fruits' scent from affecting you two."
"Makes sense…." Hana nodded, "Though, at a drawback too... Since the Inves want to eat our Lockseeds."
"Agreed. But I know you three will be careful. Just keep an eye out on one another." Winston informed.
"Right," Enrique nodded.
"Alright everyone, let's enter the forest," Winston declared before each member entered the place as Genji and Pharah bask in the new place for the first time. They had the feelings of awe, shock, and even wonder.
"So this is Helheim Forest…" Pharah observed.
"Hmm.. reminds me of the old tales of the Yokai…," Genji said, glaring around the forest.
"Stay close… we don't know if we are to encounter a small pack of Inves," Winston advised.
"Or any of those bigger buggers…" Tracer grimaced, recalling how they encountered a giant dragon Inves in Hana's hometown or the muscular blue bronze Inves in Hanamura. Lapis however, he was staring at the surroundings, lost in a trance as he unknowingly grasps his necklace upon old memories.
"Lapis? Are you alright?" Enrique asked the young warrior.
"I'm fine," the cyan warrior replied quickly as he releases his hold on his necklace.
"Alright. Let's search around."Winston said, as the others nodded and began to look around the area, but keeping close just in case. To Genji and Pharah, the place was a large and vast place. Lapis seemed the calmest about it… too calm if some would be able to notice.
Angela and Winston were studying closely, but not touching the fruits at all, as they ponder what benefits this could maybe bring, as well as what happened here early on when they found those skeletons. Even more of what causes them to be so attracted to those fruits, or what makes them into Lockseeds. To Hana and Enrique, they were quite apprehensive about the place since it brought horrible moments knowing when they first arrived here, it was scary.
"This place still gives me the creeps…" Hana grimaced.
"Tell me about it…." Enrique nodded, "L-Let's just hurry this up…. Something doesn't feel right… Doesn't it seem.. Too quiet?"
"He's right…" Genji said as they all stopped, each one reaching for their weapons. "Listen… Do you hear anything but the wind? Usually, there's some clatter of noises from the Inves... But now? There's nothing."
"Usually the Inves would sound out unless…" Winston pondered.
Lapis frowned, as he grabs his Lockseed as he could feel the incoming presence. "The Inves smell a much stronger Lockseed and the only ones that are stronger are those Genesis Riders."
"Then… where are the Inves…?" Hana got out, getting worried.
Lapis looks around carefully, using his instincts before he slowly places his finger on the tab. They slowly walk around before they made it to a rather small clearing but what stood out was the giant tree in the very center. It was taller than the other Helheim trees as it reached even past the clouds and there were cyan blue chains along with a golden seal on it.
"Woah, check that out!" Tracer pointed at the tree as they raise their heads upon its size. "This tree is taller than the others!"
"GET AWAY FROM THAT!" Lapis shouted, surprising the others.
"Lapis?" Angela asked.
"Just… get away from that tree… Don't even go near it or touch it…" Lapis said to them.
"Do you know something about it…?" Winston asked cautiously.
Lapis flinched slightly. "It's… complicated… just please listen to me. We have to move, now."
"I…. I say we listen to him…" Enrique said, "I know it may seem weird... But I trust in what he says…. We should just keep moving now."
"Now hold on," Pharah stopped, "Lapis, do you actually know something about it? For you to be this concern, there is something you know."
"It's none of your concern…" he replied. "Please, we have to go. Now."
"And leave the party already?" A familiar, dealer's voice called out behind them.
All the members of Overwatch turn to see not only the three Genesis Riders there… But Talon and a small group of their soldiers there as well. "To think, if we just followed you, we wouldn't need to bring so many soldiers." Sid chuckled.
Lapis gritted his teeth, realizing this situation was getting worse. Upon seeing Reaper, the young samurai took a few steps back, the memories of his torture in the enemy base returning.
"You people are forbidden from being here!" Lapis shouted in venom. "This area shouldn't be touched by you!"
"Well…. Like I said. We followed you when you all entered the Crack. So it's easy for us." Sid chuckled.
"So… you are this 'Kamuro' boy?" Ryouma noted to Lapis, "If you be so kind, and not resist by handing your belts and Lockseeds over, then we'll be on our way."
"Not a chance!" Hana denied. Winston nodded, throwing down a shield as it soon blocks the oncoming bullets from Talon, but not or long. Lapis, Enrique, and Hana grabbed their respective buckles and placed them on their waists before bringing out their Lockseeds.
"Henshin!" They shouted in unison.
ORANGE!/BUDOU!/SILVER!
They quickly placed the Lockseeds into the grooves of the buckles.
LOCK ON!
Once locked in place, they quickly pressed the Cutting Knives, opening the front end of the Lockseeds
SOIYA! ORANGE ARMS! HANAMICHI ON STAGE!
HAI! BUDOU ARMS! RYU HOU, HA-HA-HA!
SOIYA!SILVER ARMS! HAKUGIN NEW STAGE!
Their arms soon dropped down as they formed out and donned them as they drew out their respective weapons. Ryouma smirked, "Well then… Shall we join them, you two?" He asked the other two, as they strapped their drivers on, and held up their Energy Lockseeds.
CHERRY/PEACH/LEMON ENERGY!
A retro video game tune played as the Crack opened up to reveal a pair of metallic cherries before Sid bent his head down while holding his hat while Ryouma and Yoko got into their stance before saying, "Henshin!/Henshin…" and locked the Lockseed in the Genesis Driver.
LOCK… ON!
He pushed the lever and the Lockseed opened up to reveal the core of the Lockseed and the juice was filling up in the Concentrate Pod.
SODA! CHERRY/PEACH/LEMON ENERGY ARMS!
The three Energy Arms dropped onto the three, forming their armor as their stood Sigurd, Marika, and Duke. "You two, take care of the kids… I want the new one…" Duke ordered, pointing to Kamuro. Marika and Sigurd nodded before charging towards Gaim and D. Va while Duke approaches Kamuro who remained where he was.
"So… you are the rider, Kamuro."
"So what if I am," Kamuro frowned.
"Well…. Then pray tell… How did you make that Lockseed?" Duke said, his voice showing signs of anger and jealousy, "For from what I know… Only A Ranked Lockseeds would be only discovered even with my prototype belts, and even I have used the knowledge to even discover new ones, and even created new Lockseeds!" He said, aiming his bow, "So how… How do you have something that wasn't made by MY genius?!"
Kamuro kept quiet as he pointed his spear at Duke. "It was given to me for a purpose unlike you." He answered. "And I will use its power and my own to stop those like you."
"Hehehe…. While you held well against Marika…. I'm much more different than her…." Duke said, getting into a stance, ready to fight.
"We shall see," Kamuro rushed towards Duke as the Genesis Rider fired but the Rider suddenly brought up his hand, as vines literally rose up to form a wall, surprising Duke.
"Nani?"
Kamuro leaps over the wall and strikes Duke across the chest and landed on his feet before he kicks Duck, sending him further away.
Duke growled, pointing his bow to the ground and shooting an arrow into the ground. A small glow appeared below him as it raced around the area before quickly coming up Kamuro as barrages of arrows flew out of the ground, striking his armor. And as the silver rider looked up, Duke was already in front of him as he started to swing and slash the teen before kicking him away, sending him flying through a boulder behind them.
Kamuro shook his head as he regained his senses before raising his head to see Duke rushing towards him. Seeing this, Kamuro was surrounded in a ball of energy and literally flew towards the Genesis Rider, hitting him like a bowling ball, the amount of force feeling like he was shot by a cannon. Duke has never seen this type of attack at all, he didn't even press the Cutting Knife to use it!
"Care to try again?" Kamuro taunted.
"Y-You brat... " Duke growled, before charging back ahead, ready to fight more seriously than before.
"GAUGH!" Sigurd cried out, from being struck by a quick swipe from Gaim. "Che… you got a bit better kiddo.." He grunted, rubbing his shoulder, "But…" In moments he appeared behind the samurai, and gripped his arm before slamming him on the ground hard before pointing the tip of his weapon and piercing it through his thigh, "I still have more power than you…."
The azure samurai gritted his teeth as he tries to aim at the Genesis Rider but he felt his arm starting to shake again at the constant reminder he was fighting a human being.
"Ho? Scared huh?" Sigurd smirked, picking up the samurai before slashing him, and sending a few arrows causing sparks to cast off, "This will make things easier than done." He said, kicking the teen into the ground.
Gaim coughed from the kick before he slowly stood up. Shaking off the pain as he decided to change Arms. Grabbing Ichigo, he quickly pressed the tab.
ICHIGO!
Quickly replacing Lockseeds, he placed the Ichigo Lockseed into the buckle and locked it in place.
LOCK ON!
Now ready, he presses the Cutting Knife, opening the Lockseed.
SOIYA! ICHIGO ARMS! SHUSHUTTO SPARK!
The thinner Arms dons onto the samurai as he begins to toss the kunais, though easily deflected by Sigurd as he was rushed upon again and struck into the stomach, causing him to gasp in pain and hold it before Sigurd slashed him once more, tossing him back.
"Pitiful…" Sigurd shook his head, "I think I'd do us more of a favor by ending you…."
Nearby, D. Va and Marika were dueling out, with the idol using her Kiwi Arms, and while it did give her range. The Genesis Rider was able to time perfectly to strike her, causing a huge disadvantage against herself.
D. Va rolled to the side to avoid another shot before she swung her Kiwi Blades at Marika who avoided the attack until the Armored Rider managed to use the other blade to strike across her chest.
"Geh! You lousy brat…." Marika growled, waving her weapon as in moments all sound around D. Va disappeared as the Genesis Rider disappeared in a thick mist. The idol looked around, only to feel and receive some damage and slashes from the older woman. "You and your friends will fail… Such is the fate for some group that should remain dead.." Her voice called out from within the mist.
"I'm not letting that happen!"
"And how will you be able to stop us? You can't even beat us Genesis Riders…"
"We know we can beat you!" D. Va countered as she finally blocks Marika's attack and struck her across the chest and kicked her away.
"Guh!" She gritted, holding her chest before aiming at the idol, and sending several arrows at her. Seeing the arrows, D. Va quickly pressed the Cutting Knife.
KIWI SQUASH!
The blades soon glowed light green as D. Va tossed them at Marika, and upon contact they began to spin around and slash at her armor, casting sparks off before the next turn made them come down onto her, creating an explosion and forcing the Genesis Rider away from the idol. As the fight was continuing between both factions, the Great Tree was sensing the battle between them. Inside, it could feel the rage on one side while the other wanted to protect. It was shivering at the sense of war. The sense of conquest… it was delightful to what was inside the tree.
War…
A deep voice echoed around the battle, causing everyone to stop, and left confused to who said that.
Thou searches for conquest...
"Uh…. Winston? Is that you and Athena pranking us?" Tracer questioned, feeling uneasy.
"That wasn't me." Winston denied.
The spilling of blood scatters for War… Conquest.
*CRACK*
Kamuro froze as he slowly and fearfully turns to the great tree and saw a large crack. The seal on the tree began to crack as everyone stepped away from it.
"No…" Kamuro gasped in horror. "Not again…"
"Lapis, what's going on?" Gaim asked.
The cracks spread further as purple light leaked out from them.
"It is coming back…" Kamuro gripped his spear tightly. "No wonder I am alive…"
"Lapis?" D. Va asked. Even Gaim was confused. What did he mean by being alive?
The tree began to ooze gold and black sap as both factions stepped further away from it. They began to witness a black and gold arm grabbing hold of the tree trunk, trying to pull itself out. Another arm reaches out and grabs the other side of the tree trunk before it finally pulls itself out of the seal.
The gunk on its body slowly drips off before it slowly raised its head, piercing golden eyes seen in the ooze. "I'm free…" The ominous voice that came from the new being. "After so many years I am free at last!"
"What the heck is that!?"
Kamuro's fear rises, the memories of his fate and his people returning. "Kougane is free…"
"Kougane? Who… is that? And how do you know it, Lapis?" D. Va asked him, only to receive silence.
The figure known as 'Kougane' looked around at the battlefield, chuckling softly. "Well… isn't this interesting? New insects to destroy…." It chuckled before he glanced down, seeing their belts and the Lockseeds, "Ho? There were still some belts left? And new ones? I'm intrigued… but annoyed by those abominations…" It said, pointing to the Energy Lockseeds.
The creature quickly rushed towards a Talon trooper as he grabs the prototype of the Sengoku Driver. "I am taking this." It rips off the buckle before he grabs the soldier by the neck and crushed him without hesitation.
"That is mine!" Duke growled, out, pointing his bow at Kougane and taking a shot… Only for the figure to raise his hand, stopping the arrow as it soon disintegrates in front of him.
"I am the one of conquest! I am the one of War!" Darkness shrouded the Sengoku Driver as a Cutting Knife suddenly appeared on it. A dark chuckle resonates with it before he digs his claw into his own chest, making some cringe in disgust. However, once he pulls his arm out, there in his oozed hand was a Lockseed. Like Kamuro's but it was pitch black with fuschia lining but the power… it was too dark. Even for Reaper, he could sense the pure darkness in that being.
"Enrique….? I….. I don't like this…" D. Va quivered, her body begins to shake in fear…. No… It wasn't just her. Everyone was shaking in fear at this… 'thing' in front of them.
"I… am darkness incarnate…. And I'm… your new god…" Kougane chuckled, holding up the Lockseed before unhooking it.
DARKNESS!
It loaded the ominous Lockseed into the Sengoku Driver, locking it in at the same time.
LOCK ON!
Dark clusters formed above 'Kougane' and an ominous black and violet apple descended. Without hesitation, it flicked the Cutting Knife.
SOIYA!DARKNESS ARMS! ŌGON NO KAJITSU!
Standing in front of them was a new Rider. He wore a silver Ride Wear suit with black sides on the torso. The new Rider had black bracers and boots with violet trim. The chest piece and shoulders were noticeably spiked upwards, colored the same black with violet accents. The shape implied that the Rider was using an Apple Lockseed like Kamuro's.
The Rider's helmet was black and had a headpiece attachment that resembled dark flames. The visor was covered by a sinister looking violet mask which resembled a stylized version of the Japanese kanji for the word 'evil'. Sheathed on the left side of his belt was a Musou Saber and in his left hand was a violet Daidaimaru dubbed the Dark Daidaimaru.
The new Rider made everyone gasp in shock but at the same time in complete caution of the new enemy. The dark rider glanced at both factions before noticing Kamuro. "You… the Overlord who sealed me away along with yourself." He recognized.
"Overlord?"
"Sealed? Lapis, what the hell is that thing and how does it know you?!" Gaim asked.
"Ah, I see he hasn't told you."
"You should have stayed in that prison, Kougane! You are the reason why my fellow people turn against each other!" Kamuro spat out in venom.
"And now I will continue on with it…" he glanced at the new people. "I have sensed the new world this place is invading. What you did to me…I will return in favor."
"Lapis…?" Gaim glanced at his friend. There definitely was something going on between his friend and the Dark Rider.
"I won't let you!" He cried out in anger, jumping up towards Kougane's new armored form.
Kougane quickly rolled to the side to avoid the attack before seeing some of the other soldiers. He rushed towards them and stabbed them in cold blood but everyone saw blue orbs of life entering the Lockseed he holds. Like Reaper but this was different… "Power… I need more for my full form!"
"Men….. Retreat… NOW!" Reaper shouted out to them all, "We are leaving!"
Kougane turns his head to Reaper, sensing the darkness in him. "You…" he laughed. "That darkness in you… it will be useful for me! You hold the essence of Death!"
Reaper could only turn as blood vines sprout from the ground, wrapping around Reaper as he grunted. Struggling against them as they soon begin to drag him underneath the ground. A blood red glow appeared below as it felt like he was being dragged into hell.
Reaper used his Wraith ability to move away as he frantically becomes wisps of dark smoke as he regroups with the Genesis Riders and the rest of Talon. He clutched his chest, feeling some power taken away from him.
"Retreat!" NOW!"
Duke and his two allies glance at each other before nodding in agreement as they all chose to retreat with the help of smoke bombs. Once it died down, it only left the members of Overwatch with the abomination. Kougane slowly turns to them as they moved back a bit upon his stare and the blood that was on his armor. For Gaim, he was breathing heavily at the scene.
"Well… even if my new interest has left… I still have you all…." Kougane chuckled darkly, "I am going to enjoy draining you all of your life. As slowly…. as… possible."
Kamuro quickly looks at his allies, "RUN NOW!" He shouted before he rushed towards the monster. The two clashed as Kougane snarled in anger upon the one who sealed him. While he still needed more power, he is gonna kill the one who was responsible for draining his full power for centuries! Looking back he said, "What are you doing!? GO!"
"We can't just leave you, Lapis!" D. Va called out to him, holding up Gaim as they waited for him to join them.
"Damn it, I am not making another mistake of losing people again to this monster!" He yelled as he ducked from the slash before becoming a ball of energy and slammed Kougane away.
Once at a distance, he finally felt exhaustion as he was using too much energy, causing him to fall on one knee. Kougane, however, growled before he pressed the knife twice.
DARKNESS AU LAIT!
Growling, numerous dark orbs formed behind Kougane as they soon shoot towards Lapis.
"LAPIS!" Gaim shouted.
Kamuro closed his eyes, feeling old memories returning.
… that was until...
"Ryuuga wagateki wo kurau!"
A blue, energized arrow passed by, as in moment two large, energy dragons form out from the arrow, twirling around one another as it stopped the orbs, and shot towards Kougane. It soon hit his body, causing him to roar in pain, as he kneels to the ground, holding his chest.
"Hurry!" From afar was Hanzo, near the portal, "Hurry up before the monster recovers!"
"Listen to Hanzo!" Genji advised before he was the first to leave.
D. Va helps Gaim walk as fast as possible while Tracer grabs Lapis as they run to the portal. Standing back up, the Dark Rider growled in hate, his body resurging with more power.
The dark rider unleashed a dark power that caused Kamuro to stop before he quickly turns to his friends. "We need to go now!" He said as he gave one last glance back, he sees Kougane stare at him the moment the Crack closed. Outside, they panted in relief as Gaim tried to keep himself together from what happened.
"Just… what was that…?" D. Va panted, turning to Lapis, "You.. need to give an… explanation now…"
"I…" he clenched his hands. "I can't tell you here… please, you must understand, that thing. He will bring forth chaos! I can't let it happen again. Not again…"
"Again…? Lapis, you have to tell us what is going on," Tracer pleaded.
"I can't… I can't…."
"We did just go through something on par with a demon… I suggest it would be wise to tell us." Genji said.
Lapis lowered his head but for Enrique, he weakly marched up to his friend.
"Just who are you really, Lapis?!" Enrique demanded. "We are your friends! We don't hide our secrets from each other! Just who is Kougane?!"
Lapis felt ashamed knowing his friend was right. The members of Overwatch needed answers about Kougane. They need to know the truth…
"Not a who… a what," Lapis corrected. "Kougane is an artificial Golden Fruit… and for me… I am an Overlord… For my real name is Shamubishe."
"What is an Overlord…?"
Lapis or Shamubishe took a deep breath. "A group of beings known as the Femushinmu. We… were the ones who once lived on the planet that the forest already consumed."
"W-Wait… you mean the forest that consumed that world, the one we often enter, is your homeworld?!"
"Yes, and it did," Lapis confirmed. "And in that forest, we discovered the Golden Fruit."
"Golden Fruit?" They repeated in confusion. "What does it have to do with Helheim Forest and that Kougane creep?"
"Everything… it was a fruit that would have painted the world into one's image."
Suddenly, Enrique recalled the Hana Doppelgänger's words about painting the world in his colors. "You mean… that fruit has the capability to change the world into one's image?"
"Yes but it was also the gravest mistake we have ever done," admitted Lapis. "As a result, we decided to create our own…"
Everyone looks at each other until it dawned on them. "YOUR CIVILIZATION CREATED KOUGANE!?"
Lapis lowers his gaze on his friends. "That's correct but it didn't end well. Our people were dying and some of us soon became Overlords but alas… Kougane saw things differently," he grimaced. "He caused my people to turn against each other. Killing each other off like sheep… he wore different armor before the one you all saw. He didn't call himself Jam either."
"What was Kougane's true title?"
"Mars."
"Wait, as in the name of the Roman God of War?" Angela clarified.
"Kougane became the representation of both conquest and war for what he has done to my people," Lapis announced. "He seeks to control and the need to cause a war."
"Conquest and War…" Winston muttered. "That can't be possible… those representations are eerily similar to the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse in the Bible."
"And golden fruit… it is a reference to the apple that Adam and Eve ate," Zenyatta spoke.
"Your world has legends similar to that?
"Yes," Winston confirmed.
"Kougane mentioned you sealed him, what happened?" Enrique asked.
Lapis sighed, "After what he has done, I personally chose to do the right thing and put a stop to it. I fought against him, we were both weakened and with that, I sealed myself and Kougane into the Great Tree you all saw him emerge from." The Overlord looks at his hands. "I guess my appearance here was a sign after all… and now he will seek his revenge on me before he begins his conquest to the forest and to this world."
"What are you gonna do?"
"I must stop him and seal him away again. And that means..."
"You'll have to seal yourself away too."
"A sacrifice is required."
"That's crazy! You can't!"
"The lives of the many outweigh the life of one person,"
"But Lapis, you have friends here. People who care about you." Enrique gestured to the team. "I understand how much you lost but this isn't the best option. I know we can beat him if we all work together as a team. If you are gonna fight him then I want to help out."
"Yeah, we are in this together Lapis!" Lena agreed. "You got us to back you up!"
"My friends...it's because of you I must do this. But...but you are right. Kougane is strong and will only grow stronger to regain his full strength as Mars. I cannot defeat him alone."
"Will you let us help you stop Kougane for good?" Enrique asked.
Lapis stood up from his seat and smiled at his fellow teammates. "You said friends look out for each other. Willing to help them to the end. I now know that you people are my best friends, to the very end."
"All in favor of stopping both the Helheim Invasion and Kougane for good?" Enrique puts his hand out to the center.
"I'm in!" Hana joined in.
"Same here." Lena agreed.
"Us too." Angela and Genji joined in.
"To me as well," Zenyatta volunteered.
"Me as well," Winston figured.
"Lapis?" All attention went to the human disguised Overlord.
The young Overlord stares at his friends, seeing how much determination they have to stop the artificial Golden Fruit along with the forest. He smiled before placing his hand on top. "I will help my friends." He decided.
Jam finished fighting a group of Inves before approaching the old throne of the Femushinmu. Leaning on it, he hummed in amusement upon seeing this world suffer such a fate. And it will be more entertaining, "It has been far too long since I've been on this throne…. But things have changed now.." He said, turning his head as a group of vines formed together to make what appeared to be a screen, showing more of the other realm that was on the other side this time.
The new world has suffered a large war and even more conflicts through the years since. Even more was the real Golden Fruit is at large since there were new Armored warriors. He remembers when they made those devices, believing it could help save them, but it only stalled their time.
What made him more disgusted was those artificial ones those other creatures made. They were an abomination, to use what should be his own reign and twist it into something like that, made him have no sympathy against those three, only death for them.
He grinned, remembering that creature that had a stench of death. It was glorious… Wonderful…. And what he needed. With part of what he stole from that being, he summoned it up as he began to ponder how to make this work for him?
He clutched his hand as more energy was focused but it only ended in failure. Growling under his breath, he realized he really lost a lot of power since his prison. He needed to regain the power he lost. Only then he will have his opportunity to make his new power.
Only then he will be golden. And will become the new god of this realm and the next…. As well as ridding of that obsolete fruit.
After night set, Genji stood over where the Crack was, watching over it before he turned his head as he sees Hanzo, "Hanzo… I thought you didn't want to deal with us, anymore." He said, turning to him to see him face to face. "And yet you are here now."
"It isn't because of that…. I sensed the danger of that demon." Hanzo replied, turning his head. As he does, Genji notices his brother's finger twitching as the ninja smiled softly. He was lying. He was worried about them and his brother.
"Hanzo, why not reconsider helping us?" The cyborg offered.
"I cannot yet…. My sins from long ago, are still unforgiven…" He said, turning away in shame.
"I still forgave you."
"But I haven't forgiven myself…. For what I did to you. And among many others…. They'll never be repaid…"
Genji stared at the Shimada archer before he looking at the mountain. "Whatever is going on… something will bring chaos…" he said. "This.. golden fruit that Lapis mentioned…"
"I do not know what it is…. But if it brought that demon, then it must be important." Hanzo noted.
"It is the reason why Yggdrasil have been so focused on that place… they are searching for it. If they were to experiment it…" Genji muttered. "It could be a repeat of what Lapis' people have done."
"I shall do some research…. Maybe go into that forest and find answers as well…" Hanzo pondered.
"Hanzo, the place is infested and not only those Inves but now Kougane will watch over it."
"I know. But if we are to find a way to stop that demon and Yggdrasil, then I'll have to take that risk." He responded.
Genji was silent for a moment before he sighed, "Just make sure Kougane doesn't spot you and never touch a Helheim fruit, it is Winston's warning."
"Heh, I'll keep your warnings at heart, brother." Hanzo smiled softly, "And just so you know… I'm proud of who you became now, Genji."
Genji looks back, only to see the archer gone from his sights. He chuckled with slight amusement before looking at the mountain once more.
With Enrique, he was staring at the lake, seeing his reflection in the water. He was dwelling in his thoughts upon the fight. An image of Kougane and the blood he spilled caused him to grasp his head, his breathing hitched for a moment.
'T-Those eyes…. It didn't show any lingering trauma…. He…. He is willing to kill us without any problem.. Just… Just like with those Omnics…' Enrique said in thoughts, shaking with fear from that thing… It was right… It was Death. It was Conquest. It was War.
It was going to bring chaos and turn people against each other… just like with Lapis' civilization… It honestly scares him. He didn't want to die… he was afraid. He was afraid of dying. He is terrified of the death it would bring to the innocent people here. Images of his family flashed in his mind, causing him to move away until his back hits the cherry blossom tree.
"Enrique…." Hana said softly from afar, about to head to him and comfort him until she felt a hand on her, turning to see Genji, "But… he needs help."
"I know he does… But he needs to remember how to control these fears without the help of others. If he can't do it on his own, he won't be able to proceed further than he already has." Genji said to her, "He needs to realize his own inner strength."
Hana turns her head to see her friend as he was taking deep breaths while clutching the spot where his old wound from the Omnic crisis was. His heavy breathing was slowly going to its normal pace as his heartbeat was slowing to its normal pace.
"See? I know you care a lot about him, Hana-san…. But you shouldn't underestimate his will." Genji said before leaving the area.
With the young samurai, he finally felt calm again as he lowers his hand and leans his head against the tree trunk, seeing the stars in the night sky. 'I…. I need to try and get past this… I can't live like this anymore… No longer afraid of death, I don't want to be afraid of my phobia….' He said in his thoughts. He suddenly felt the wind brush against his skin, the branches in the cherry blossoms shaking slightly but only the petals were flowing with the wind.
He watched in wonder, seeing the pink petals fly away with the wind carrying them. It was breathtaking to witness with his own eyes.
"Mind if I sit with you?" Hana asked as the young samurai turned to her. She stood there, a soft smile on her face as the breeze passed by, a few cherry blossoms petals flowing past her as her hair was caught in the breeze.
For some reason, he felt his cheeks heat up upon the sight. He shook his head for a moment before saying, "S-Sure…"
The idol smiled softly, as she walked over and sat next to the teen under the cherry blossom tree. The two simply watched the stars, taking in the view of Japan, and the ocean next to them. Even if they just found the worst enemy, all of them being alive was still worth it.
"This view is amazing, Enrique.." Hana smiled softly.
"Yeah, it…" he slowly nodded as they watch the petals flow. "This is a first for me to see something like this…"
"Hehe, it's been awhile since I've watched the stars with someone I care for…," Hana admitted, not realizing her words.
"E-Eh?"
Hana then blushed before shaking her head, "A-As in a family! Y-Yeah! Family! I care for you as my best friend."
"O-Oh…" he responded but the two avoided looking at each other as a blush adorns their cheeks. It was nothing but silence and slightly awkward.
"So um… nice wind… right?" Hana got out, trying to change the tune.
"Y-Yeah…" he nodded nervously. "Umm… any idea when the new game comes out?"
"Uh... I think next month?" Hana got out as they both tried to change the topic, but in the end, it only makes it more awkward for them both. 'Oh man… this is getting so embarrassing!' She exclaimed in her thoughts.
"Just kiss already!" Lena shouted out from afar, only for Angela to interfere and cover her mouth, dragging the pilot away. Not only it embarrassed the two but their faces were beet red upon what Lena said.
"W-W-Why would Lena say that?" Enrique asked.
"I-I… I don't know." Hana denied, blushing from that. "She… She needs to stop teasing us with that kind of thoughts…."
"W-Why would she assume that in the f-first place?"
"Who knows?" Hana shrugs, "She always does weird things…."
They look at each other before looking away. Everything grew quiet for a moment before they both smiled and chuckled softly. Realizing she was just trying to make the mood change for them before they look back at one another.
"Wanna go in and play some games? Something co-op?" Hana asked.
"...Sure why not?" Enrique accepted.
The two stood up as they walk back to the airship. One thing is for sure, they have to be ready for what is about to approach.
In Talon Base, Reaper was going over footage from the helmet cameras his soldiers recorded during the fight in that forest. The video was paused when the being that Kamuro called Kougane, the image of that creature killing a soldier as blue energy was entering the Darkness Lockseed.
He recognized that power… It was the same way as with him. Being able to absorb life energy from its victim…. But this…. This wasn't on par with Reaper… No… It was beyond the point to that where if Reaper tried to fight this monster, 30 seconds was all it needed to erase the Talon Leader's life in an instant.
"Then… why didn't he?" Reaper muttered to himself. He remembered those vines attaching to him, and he could feel something. But it wasn't his life force… more like… his essence was partially taken from him. Whatever this 'Kougane' creature wanted…. It had to do with him and who 'he' is. And he couldn't let that happen.
Looking at Ryouma, he seemed interested in what he saw. "You have explaining to do."
"It's a first for me," Ryouma admitted.
"I find that hard to believe…" Reaper glared, "You knew there was something in that forest…"
"I am only doing research. That wasn't included in my research but here is some new development."
"Impress me." He mocked.
Ryouma pressed a few keys as it showed Kamuro. "It seems that Kamuro is responsible for its prison. You saw how much anger this Kougane has on him." He reminded. "Not to mention, it called Kamuro an Overlord."
"What even is an 'Overlord'? I have a feeling you know, Ryouma…." Reaper noted, waiting for the scientist to explain himself.
The scientist grinned, "The very civilization that the forest is in."
"I see…. Think you can find a way to rid that creature? I think you know a way, especially if we take Kamuro." Reaper pointed out. If Kamuro was the reason for Kougane's prison then it could be repeated.
"We would need Kamuro. He is an Overlord after all and able to seal it. Not to mention the three Riders' belts. It adds more to my interest."
"Then we'll focus on taking that silver rider, and stopping that creature before we all perish by it…" Reaper stated, "Cause… even I can tell if we don't stop it… we'll be dead by the end of the year…"
From the corner, Sombra was recording the conversation before walking away. As she turns a corner, there stood Yoko with an intense look in her eyes.
"What seems to be the matter, chika?" Sombra asked.
"I don't trust you, hacker…" Yoko glared, "If you do anything that sounds like betrayal, I'll personally see for your execution…"
"Take it easy, I have no reason to," Sombra waved off. "If you excuse me, adios."
The hacker made it to her area and closed the door behind her. While it was a close one, she felt some amusement. With the recording, she sent it as anonymous to Overwatch.
While she is part of Talon, she has her own goals in mind.
A/N: Well, that is it for this chapter! It seems Kougane has finally made his debut and things are going to take its turns in the battle. What will happen next and what will come when one of the most dangerous beings is now free? We just have to find out in the next chapter. See you all later! And also, tomorrow, hopefully, I will update my story 'The White Dragon of Fiore' for sure. So look forward to that as well. Stay in the shadows, everyone!