Clash of Realms
CHP65: An Adjustment to be made
"And so the kryptonian Power Girl returned from travel just hours before finding herself on the battlefield. A personal mission damn near this galaxy's end, because of a potential an incoming disturbance in route to this very land. Correct?" Ched stopped his steps, looking in Parasite's general direction.
The super powered gave a nod of his head.
"And what of this target, or potential one. Was contact made… did Power Girl challenge the subject?"
"Target vanished," Parasite responded.
Ched's chin rested in the palm of his own hand.
"So you haven't any idea who or what she was theoretically tracking?" Ched questioned.
The parasite pointed to and tapped at his own head.
"I have and can perceive only from her perspective. Nothing more," he spoke.
This was already known well among those in the room and it was Yoshii Kiria that stepped forward, and hands in his side jacket pockets.
"Vlet I don't understand the need to know on the matter, it plays no relevance here. Why the interest on something so trivial?"
The yokai breathed inwardly while dusting himself off.
"We must have our eyes and attention open to any and everything that could potentially jeopardize what we're trying to accomplish here. My father and his old man before him lacked such qualities and for that it cost them everything, but I will not allow it to happen here. We're close, so close that I can just about taste victory on the tip of my tongue. But it would be premature to claim victory just yet, not with the Justice League and super beings of man's world to deal with."
Others of Fairy Tale remained still and listening to the two of them go back and forth for half a minute until Vandal Savage coughed aloud.
"As entertaining as it is to see the two of you going back and forth jarring at each other's throats this is not a constructive nor productive use of our time," Vandal's eyes looked to the Parasite. "Now if I recall did the Parasite not have something to unveil to us all, yes?"
Ched was ready to say something else but instead bit back and Kiria backed off all together. With a sly grin he readjusted himself while turning and looking to the Parasite. But it was just in that same instance that three guards piled into the room.
"Sorry sir, but there's something that needs your immediate attention."
"What!" Ched snapped.
A single of them swallowed his own saliva, scratching at his own chin before speaking up.
"Yes well ah, he's here… again and wants to talk. Says it's urgent."
Taking a deep breath and his eyes closed for a moment, Vlet exhaled just before his eyes again opened. Already he had a pretty good indication as to who the guest was and knew it best not to keep the individual in question waiting.
"Very well, I'll be right on my way."
The two guards made their way out, whilst Ched turned and faced those of which stood in the room.
"This meeting is temporarily suspended. Do as you will, I shall summon you all in due time. However," Ched looked to the Parasite. "You're coming with me."
The super powered villain said nothing and stayed very much stoic. And slowly one after another they stepped out of the room, which included Vlet himself. Parasite was at his side as he took off with the two guards.
"Hhhhmmm well that was strange, wasn't it…" Kahlua uttered.
"Indeed, yes. If this information or whatever is so important than what was with the abrupt ending to things. All bets are it's that ogre again," Cheetah added.
"Highly probable, but I doubt it'll be for long. And for that I think it best the lot of us stay near," Kuyo added. "Most of us anyway, however I got the boy's father to talk and he is certain to the whereabouts of another of the Chirismoy shells. As for that's about all I've gotten out of a single of them as of now. Lady Yua is her name."
"Really, where?" Kahlua asked.
"Nobles of a rich land, half a dozen miles from the capital," Kuyo replied.
"Let me take it," Akua cut into the conversation. "I'll infiltrate their residence and locate the piece and bring it back. We've made too much noise as of late. Dropping Apollo will result in some resistance and a wide realm manhunt for Fairy Tale when they discover what we did to their precious ruler. I can do this undetected." Akua said.
"Fine, but I shall be on standby in the case that things go south," Kuyo said.
"Do what you will."
Ched descended to the lower levels and into the main lobby where a much expected ogre awaited him.
"Ilon," Vlet spoke his name. "I'm sort of in the middle of something."
"Good, then we shall not waste time. I need for you to come with me," Ilon responded.
"Come with you, haha. For what reason? Preparations for his majesty's return are just underway," Ched said.
The ogre smiled, siding next to Ched with an arm wrapped around his shoulder.
"Good sir, this has everything to do with this realm's true ruler's return. It won't take long, just come with me."
Ched wrestled his way out of Ilon's grasp and dusting himself off, while standing opposite of him.
"Fine, but this one comes with us," Ched eyed Parasite. "He has very important information that can benefit the both of us."
Vlet patted the Parasite on the shoulder.
"Wherever it is we're going, he shall share this said information," Ched then looked back to Ilon. "All will be explained. A bundle of fortune just recently fell right into our lap and turning the tides against the powers in all lands of this realm. And potential dirt even on the Justice League."
At the mention of this, Ilon grinned while rubbing his hands together.
"Then let us be on our way."
XXX
Inside the Aensland castle Morrigan led Akasha to a secluded room at the bottom level of the fortress. It was dark but inside was a blank cube constructed of magical matter, about four times the size of a rubik's cube. With Akash making physical contact with it and Morrigan projecting her own spirit energy through the object. With that Akasha was able to focus in and get a live visual on the whereabouts of Tsukune and Moka. And this was truly a case of a picture saying a thousand words. She recognized their surroundings as one of the infirmaries inside her father's estate. And it was none other than Apollo who was laid out over the table.
"No, no," Akasha shook her head. "What has happened in the last few hours?! I must return to the yokai realm this instant. There is absolutely nothing I can do from here. This looks way serious."
The succubi peaked over Akasha's shoulder and taking a look for herself. And with that she was with a nod of her own.
"I couldn't agree with you more, in fact I'd like to tag along. The girls will be fine, they'll be safe under the roof of my fortress for a few hours, if even. And besides they'll have all my staff at their disposal," the succubus voiced.
Removing her hand from off the Dark Lord's back resulted in the imagery before them blacking out and the square shaped object slowly descending over the table. Akasha then reached in between her cleavage and pulling out a small device but before she could do anything further, Morrigan took hold of her wrist.
"Forget that, I'll take care of that hun. Hold tight."
Just like that Morrigan's body broke down into a school of bats, wrapping around both she and Akasha and taking off. And she couldn't say for sure how long, but the next thing she knew the two of them were rematerializing outside the front gates of Apollo's estate. And just in front of them on either side of the gates stood two guards, both of which immediately recognized Akasha.
"My lady."
"Lady Akasha."
Both individuals bowed.
"Thank you very much, but could you kindly see us inside?" Akasha inquired.
"Yes, of course madam."
The gates were unlocked, allowing for both Akasha and Morrigan to step through which they did and Akasha leading the way who rushed forward. Morrigan wasn't far behind and kept pace with her. Soon enough they came up on the steps and were greeted by another set of guards which they made their way past. The entire time as she passed through the building the Dark Lord couldn't help but rehash images of what she'd witnessed through the square shaped orb as she liked to think of it. She'd been up and down these steps countless times over the years and knew the interior of her father's estate like the back of her hand and with that knowledge she knew exactly where he was being held. With each step she picked up more and more speed and inwardly praying that her father be okay. But soon enough her moment came as she came crashing down through the doors.
"Father, father!" Akasha shouted.
"Akasha-san!" Tsukune turned to see the pinkette raising into the room.
"Mother, where've you been," Moka cut off Akasha halfway and embracing her tightly. "I… no, we've been trying to reach you for hours."
"I know, I know and I'm sorry," the pink haired vampire broke away from Moka and taking additional steps towards Apollo who was laid out unconscious. "What happened to him?'
A cycle of silence followed as she wasn't given an immediate answer.
"There was a battle," Alexander Timaeus spoke. "One involving Fairy Tail and your father was blindsided and much of his life force was drained right out of him."
"No," Akasha shook her head. "That isn't possible, there isn't anyone among them capable of doing that!"
"Unfortunately there was," Tsukune stepped forward and his arms crossed. "The parasite, I think that's what Power Girl called him."
"Power Girl," Akasha uttered with confused eyes. "Just how much have I missed?"
"She's a member of the Justice League," Moka stepped in. "But it gets worse mother, that thing didn't only absorb grandfather's energy, but also all of his abilities and… and memories."
"What?!" Akasha halfway jumped off the ground. "That's madness, are you sure about that? Are you saying that father is brain dead and with all of his abilities stolen?!"
The Dark Lord abruptly ran to his side and dropping a hand over his left forearm. From behind and to her left came Moka who wrapped her arms around her mother.
"Thankfully it isn't that bad. If and when grandfather awakes it shall be with his mind intact, and as for his physical condition there's no telling when he'll be back to one hundred percent again." Moka said.
"Father, I'm so sorry," Akasha trailed her hand over the side of his face. "I should have been there."
From the time they stepped in Kurumu had been silent and standing in a corner of the room, and her eyes wondered as they came into contact with Morrigan's. Both succubi didn't speak, and just stared until the queen of Makai made the first advancement.
"Hey there Kurumu," Morrigan displayed a wicked, yet playful smirk. "How've you been, we really should keep in contact you and I. haven't seen you since the party get together some time ago. How's life been?"
"So, so I guess. A struggle, but other times smooth."
She sighed with her eyes falling over the carpet. Morrigan sort of looked over towards the table where Apollo was laid out.
"So, I take it you were part of tonight's unfortunate events. You should feel lucky they didn't take you as prisoners," Morrigan said.
"You can say that again, the opportunity was certainly there, but they didn't. The idea as to why can be tossed about, but in my opinion it boils down to one thing. They didn't consider a single of us much of a danger on that battle field or they would have. It's like they were taunting us," Kurumu's fists clinched.
Taking a sec to think it over Morrigan looked to the ceiling for a moment and then back down.
"Hhhhmmm, you do make an interesting point. Thinking back to when I had been part of their faction that would have been handled differently. The lot of you would have been detained and taken as our captives," Morrigan leaned back.
She leaned back somewhat and thought to herself.
"They're feeling confident, and cocky. And that can be looked at as good or bad, but I'm siding with the latter. Fairy Tale has always been careful and precise and with limited mistakes. We're in deep waters right now," Morrigan added.
Not far from where they stood Akasha backed away from her father, but never taking her eyes off him.
"So what is the initial diagnosis, an estimation as to how long he might be out for?" she looked back and forth between Moka and Timaeus.
The behemoth looked to the screen which displayed Apollo's vitals among everything else.
"Difficult to say for sure. Days, maybe weeks. And even with his extraordinary healing capabilities, I cannot begin to determine when or how long the recovery process to full strength will take him. Selene Kayeda is on her way as we speak, along with another highly sought medic in the realm," Timaeus said.
"Goodness, that's a relief. How long until they arrive?" Akasha breathed out.
"Twenty to thirty minutes give or take," Moka shrugged.
Akasha stepped off to the side and positioning in front of a table where she leaned forward, hands over the edge and eyes closed.
"How many know about what happened?" Akasha asked.
"Outside of those involved, Selene and all of us in this room… no one," Tsukune scratched at his left cheek.
"Good," Akasha nodded while her eyes opened. "We will keep it that way and if father is out for any lengthy period I shall give a presser when that times comes. In the short term however…"
"You shall take over his duties," Timaeus cut her off. "Do not worry about public relations for now, there are others of your father's staff that'll handle those responsibilities. But if things are too stay afloat from this end. No one is more qualified for the position than yourself. That is of course if you accept to take on the entire weight of this realm and the responsibilities that come with it. If not I'm certain Fafnir of Arcenill Mount would be plenty capa…"
"I accept."
It was Akasha's turn to cut him off while she took steps towards him and her father laid out unconscious over the table.
"This is something father has prepared me for in the possibility that he was unavailable or needed to step down. Even as I've ruled over Hiklorhan and my duties as I Dark Lord, the very possibility has always sat in the back of my mind and so I mentally prepared myself for the day this might happen," she looked down at Apollo. "I will not disappoint you father. And as for my first set of business I shall call for an emergency meeting with the rulers of each nation and suggest a partial lockdown. If Fairy Tale does in fact have the knowledge that my father possess than we're all in deep danger. A counter measure must be initiated ASAP. But this must not go fully public, we don't want panic. A full lockdown would do just that."
Moka came up on Akasha from the right and clearing her throat.
"Okay and what about Hiklorhan. With your attention now on a broader scale, who will take over your previous duties?"
The Dark Lord shifted and looking Moka in the face.
"Ekon Bakari. He'll look over things in my absence, but I'll still be present to a lesser degree. After all this will only be temporary, for how long we'll see."
"I'll notify his office people of the short term solution and they will help for the transition over to go by smoothly. If possible I'll try and make contact with Eris, difficult as it may be. When would you like to begin?" Timaeus asked.
"Soon as possible," Akasha nodded.
"Good answer."
Tsukune then jumped up with a loud yelp that got the attention of everyone standing in the room.
"What is it Tsukune?" Kurumu approached him from out of the corner where she'd been standing.
"The academy, today! The costume festival, there was going to be a skit with hired actors but with everything that's been going on it totally slipped my mind!" Tsukune was with his hands over his head.
"Okay, but can't you just cancel and schedule for another time?" Kurumu asked.
Tsukune shook his head.
"No, it doesn't work like that. This has been planned for the past few months. The two leads needed to be replaced and I never got around to doing it, all that's been taking place in our daily lives really threw me for a curve. Damn it, I really wanted to do something different and special this year for my students," Tsukune ran the palms of his hands over his face.
Morrigan threw her hair back and shrugged right as she stepped out in front of him.
"Costumes, and a skit? I think I might be able to help… maybe. Tell me more about it."
"No," Tsukune shook his head. "You really don't have to do that. Look at what's happening around us. Your attention should be on nothing but this."
"Really, I insist."
The succubus rested her hand over his shoulder.
"Me as well, tell me what you need. I'd like to help too. Anything to get my mind off all this, and what better way than returning to the academy where some of my best memories are and having some fun," Kurumu smiled.
At this point Tsukune straightened his posture while running a hand through his hair.
"Sure, okay I don't see why not. This is great, thanks a lot I don't know how to repay you. But we're on a limited time basis, this is set to happen in a few hours from now."
"More than enough time," Morrigan grinned. "In fact I know two others that could be of service. I can contact them in a heartbeat."
"Mother, will you need me for anything? I can help," Moka said.
The pinkette merely shook her head.
"There's nothing you can do. The weight of this realm and the countless tasks that come with it aren't something I want you to shoulder, but thank you. I'll be fine and have the collection of father's representatives, guardsman and whole staff at my disposal."
"Okay, if you say so."
Moka couldn't help but grin, feeling proud to be daughter of Bloodriver Akasha. Especially in this moment, the moment wasn't too big for Akasha and there didn't seem to be a drop of nervousness; at least not on the outside. Her mother truly was a strong woman and not just physically.
"She's awake, she's awake and she's asking for you all!" a singular guard stepped through the door.
"Who?" Akasha asked.
"Ruby-san, he's talking about Ruby!" Kurumu raced passed everyone.
"Ruby… she's here?!" the Dark Lord took off with everyone, except for Timaeus who stayed behind.
"She was there mother," Moka gazed back at Akasha. "On the battlefield.
XXX
Hehimz kept himself occupied with his book while Benji handled the carriage upfront with two horses leading the charge. Though the plot and characters the latest novel of his favorite writer was intriguing, Hehimz's mind had occasionally drifted from the novel to the social gathering that Hehimz was being taken too. Alongside him and sitting in the seat across from him was his body guard for the evening. She'd been assigned, much like any protection before her, but to that point she hadn't spoken a word to him. And he hadn't said a word to her. His aunt Delena, known to land as Madam Glory, had come to his mansion with two invitations to countess events. She was new to Kingdom of Thishieita; an heiress to a fashion designer, Delena had chosen this crisp evening to make her debut. Hehimz had protested his attendance but Madam Red would hear none of it and Benji had agreed. And now here he was on the way, with mixed feelings. Hehimz had raged at them both, stating that he had no interest in attending a monotonous evening dinner when he preferred to have a solitary evening. He didn't consider himself a loner, no it wasn't like that at all. He just wasn't much for the party life or get-togethers but that didn't mean he wasn't sociable. In the end, Hehimz had lost and he was now seething in the cushioned seat of his carriage as the carriage brought him closer to the destination.
"Nice night, huh?"Hehimz looked to his bodyguard.
She was dressed in a dark brown cloak with a hood included, and only looked at him but said nothing. He made eye contact with her for only a few moments longer, and found those red orbs almost mesmerizing. And not only that, they had a certain glow to them.
"You work security often, or am I your first job?" he attempted to make conversation again."
His eyes met with hers for a second time, until she quickly looked him off.
"I don't like talking about myself," she responded while looking out the window, one leg lifted up over the other.
"Nothing wrong with that," he leaned sideways and stretching. "Shutting up now."
Within thirty minutes the carriage came to a stop in front of an old mansion, but looked to be in good condition. Benji dismounted from the front seat then held the carriage door open for both Hehimz and his bodyguard. Both stepped out over the dirt road.
"Here we are. We're a little late but I'm sure the mistress of the house will be forgiving."
"And just how forgiving do you think she'll be if we reversed our decision and returned home? Like seriously I don't give a damn about taking part in these meets and she knows it, haha," Hehimz said teasingly.
"Fortunately for you, master, you won't have to find out. Just look there, the carriage has been taken for parking." Benji jerked his head in the direction of their departing carriage. "I supposed our departure will be put off for another two hours or so."
"Damn you, Benji," Hehimz cursed.
"Shall I go first?" his bodyguard looked to him.
"Sure, whatever."
He really didn't expect to run into much danger out here, but adjusted his top hat, left his chin, and approached the front door behind her. At the front entrance was a single servant which he presented his invitation and in return, was granted access to the magnificent residence. The lobby was spacious. A closet on their left and to their right was a winding staircase with a balcony overhead. The housekeeper approached them and kindly asked that the three follow him into the parlor. Wordlessly, the trio followed him down the long hall and approached a pair of double doors. When he pushed the doors open, a packed room of splendidly attired gentlemen speaking loudly with a drink in hand and immaculately dressed ladies swaying their jeweled fans. Hehimz had barely taken two steps into the room when his aunt had discerned him from across the room.
"Hehimz! My dear nephew."
"Oh boy, here we go."
Madam Glory crossed the room towards them, drawing several eyes as she did. She wore a cherry, thick strapped gown with a modest v-cut. Diamond teardrop earrings twinkled in her ears and matched the diamonds that sparkled on her choker.
"You're lucky that not many have noticed your absence, majesty."
"I have you to thank for that," Hehimz rolled his visible blue eye. "Who would care about my arrival when they can drink in the sight of you? Seriously, how many of these things are you running?"
"Oh!" Madam Glory exclaimed. "You're a shameless toady."
"Not exactly. If you continue to flaunt your looks long enough I may have enough time to escape without anyone noticing I've gone," he smiled at her.
She merely frowned back at him.
"Shush with such talk, Hehimz. You aren't going anywhere except to mingle and converse with everyone."
Madam Glory placed her palm flat against Hehimz's back. There was someone in particular she wanted for him to meet and speak with. The woman was sitting in a gray, cushioned chair and listened to an elderly gentleman speak when she saw them approaching. She immediately stood up and smiled tenderly.
Hehimz thought there was nothing different about her, except for the fact that her tone was livelier on the surface, bronze like. Aside from her complexion, she was just like the other ladies. She wore makeup, which he detested, her lips were red enough to gain madam's approval, and her silver, off the shoulder gown went nicely with the diamonds she had chosen to wear. Because of rank, Emily dipped into a perfect curtsy toward Hehimz before greeting him. Before she spoke, she stole a glance at Benji then returned her gaze to Hehimz.
"Hehimz Tulsagatov, I presume," Emily greeted.
"You presume correctly, my lady. I'm the earl Tulsagatov. It was gracious of you to invite me to soiree tonight. I am deeply honored and grateful." Hehimz meant none of it and both Benji and Madam Glory knew it.
Emily giggled lightly and extended a hand to Hehimz.
"It is a pleasure to have you among us tonight. Madam Glory here tells me that it is nigh impossible to get you away from your manor. I hope to see it sometime."
It was a custom for a gentleman to kiss a lady's hand when she offered it. Instead, Hehimz gave her a firm handshake. Shock registered Emily's face as she pulled her hand away. Where did the child learn his manners?
"And we would be delighted to have you, my lady," Benji said, breaking the growing tension. "Perhaps you would prefer to join us this coming weekend for dinner. I'm certain that my lord would enjoy having you over for dinner."
Emily flushed at the invitation.
"I would be delighted. May I have the name of the gentleman that has generously offered me an invitation to dinner?"
"His name is Benji and he's my caretaker," Hehimz answered. "He also has not right to invite anyone to my residence without my permission."
"Then will you invite me yourself, your lordship?" The question was meant for Hehimz but Emily's eyes were on Benji.
No man in the entire room could measure up to how handsome he was. She felt like she would melt under his ruby-red gaze.
"Of course, he will invite you," Madam Red said. "My nephew is an excellent host and Benji is an even better cook. We'll set a date for you to join us this coming weekend, countess."
Emily smiled then looked at Benji.
"I would like to taste some of your cooking, Benji."
Benji bowed low.
"It would be an honor to serve you, my lady."
"Is that so?" Hehimz smirked. "Then perhaps you would like to bring the countess a glass of sherry."
Hehimz then looked over to his left and she wasn't there and then to his right, being the same. His bodyguard was missing, but where had she gone? His eyes danced around looking through the crowds but didn't spot that dark cloak anywhere.
"My nephew," Madam Glory rested her hand over his shoulder. "You look flustered. You okay?"
"Yeah," he looked around some more. "It's nothing, I'm fine."
In that instant he decided to drop it.
"It's over this way, Benji," Emily noticed the informality of her actions.
It was unseemly for a lady of her rank to escort a caretaker to the bar. She looked down at the floor but Benji extended his hand to her.
"I am a guest in your home, my lady. It would be informal of you not to show me to the bar."
"O-of course."
And when Benji offered his arm, Emily felt her heart double in speed. It felt like they were sweethearts as they approached the bar. She asked the bartender for two glasses of scotch.
"And I'll also take a glass of water," benji added.
As the bartender fixed Benji an ice water, Emily tilted her glass nervously.
"This is my first party. I've never played the part of hostess. Usually, my brother Donovan will entertain the guests but he's in Draspeya on business. I feel so out of place and… I would like to be alone for a moment."
"You've no need to be nervous, my lady. Look around you." Benji swept his hand at the crowded room. "These people have come to see you and so far, they have been enchanted by you. Tell me, how do you do it?"
Emily gasped and looked down at her drink.
"I don't do anything, Benji. I just speak."
"Then you must speak on interesting topics. None of your guests has left. You must be any excellent hostess."
Emily was speechless. She was on cloud nine. Not only did she have Benji sole attention, but she had his compliments. Curses, why was he only a caretaker? Not only was he handsome, but he had the dialect of a nobleman. He was enchanting and motivational.
"My lady?"
"Ah!" Emily fumbled her glass, spilling the scotch over her gown when her maid approached her.
"Oh, my lady I'm sorry!"
"It's alright." Emily laid the glass down on the bar.
She felt humiliated. The scotch had left a dark, wet spot in the front of her gown. "I shall have to change my gown. Sindee, see to it that our guests are brought to the dining room for dinner. I shall be back soon."
Sindee gave her a nod of approval, and from there she slowly took off. But two floors up was the hired bodyguard and with a small communications inside her ear, far away from the party goers.
"Akua what is your position, report?" the voice of Kuyo spoke into her ear, and the vampire displayed a noticeable grin over her lips.
"I'm inside," she whispered. "Away from all the activity."
In her left hand she held the small tracking device which picked up on and connecting with the aura of the magical piece.
"Well… what do you think? Is the radar picking up on anything?" Kuyo asked yet another question.
"Indeed it is," she looked down over the screen. "And according to this I'm close. Very close."
"Good, get it and then get out," Kuyo said.
That was the last she heard from him as she continued along and into a room just down the hall. The door was left unlocked, but even if it wasn't that wouldn't have been an issue given her abilities. Once inside it was dark but enough light shined in from a nearby window which allowed her to see her way around. The device in hand was her guide which led her fully across the room. And over a countertop was a jewel box, It was behind glass, but she used her elbow and smashing through and taking the box. Inside were lots of different diamonds and jewels, but none shinning brighter than a specific item.
"Well," Akua smirked. "This was way too easy."
"You there, what're you doing?!"
The vampire's eyes expanded as she zipped across the room faster than he could react and with the Jigen-Tou active she sliced through and cut open his throat! His blood splattered out as his body dropped to the ground and she rolled back the other way. Reaching into the box Akua took what she had come for and took off running. Outside and in the hall was a window, which she used for her exit discretely.
XXX
When classes wrapped up, Tsukune Aono stepped out of his office removing his hands from out of his pockets. Students might have believed it was the end of the day, similar to any other but no. Today things were going to be a little bit different. His eyes scoured the halls of students conversing, moving in and out of their lockers. The after school activities were just underway and it seemed as though sixty five percent of the attending students at the academy were involved in a club or two. The academy had certainly seen growth in that area in just the past three years alone, which brought a smile to Tsukune's face.
"Head chairman!"
Tsukune turned and looked in the opposite direction and two students approached, and he recognized both. They were Airi and Rondo, both top ten in their class, junior year.
"Good afternoon, you two."
His hands were crossed just below his waist.
"I have a question about the disco dance coming up the week after next," Rondo went on. "Are any extra hands needed?"
Tsukune's smile grew even larger as he rested a hand over the boy's left shoulder.
"Always looking to do extra, but no," Tsukune shook his head. "Our staff has got it all under control. If anything else becomes available, you can check with the student body and they might have something extra for you to help with."
Stepping back, Rondo merely saluted Tsukune which resulted in a chortle from the head chairman.
Following that Rondo and Airi took off to their club activities. Airi was originally in the kendo club, while Rondo had ventured through a handful of clubs. The only one that he'd stuck around for any extended period was the Cooking Club, which was meeting in two minutes. Today would be different, as Airi decided to join Rondo. The Kendo club was inactive for the day, due to renovations to the dojo. It wouldn't return until at least another week. Rondo and Airi stepped into the room and he showed her where the aprons were; both sliding into one over their uniforms, and waited for the club president to announce what today's dish would be.
"He ed, how about Unagi again!" Rondo suggested.
"You always want to do Unagi," the club president said. "We're the only ones who end up eating these unless it's time for the school festival."
"So this is not really a cooking club, but an eating club," Airi whispered to Rondo.
"I don't see the problem with that," Rondo shrugged his shoulders. "Eating among everyone is fun! Maybe we'd get more members if we broadcasted the variety of dishes made in here."
Another club member ran up behind Rondo and grabbed hold of his shoulders.
"You just want an excuse to slack off in gym," she said. "Using this as an excuse for cramps and belly aches."
"That's..." Rondo started, but then laughed. "That isn't true at all!"
"Sounds like a guilty laugh to me, Rondo," Airi stared at him suspiciously.
Leaning back for a moment she thought silently to herself as an idea came to mind. It was something that had been bothering her and sitting in the back of her mind for the past week.
"That's it!" Airi said. "We can bring some brownies to the magic club and convince them to join us for the day."
Many within the room looked at her strangely, including Rondo.
"Uhm okay, but why?" he scratched at his hair. "Random…"
"It's just every time I pass by there, and see that they only have four to five members… I sorta feel bad for em."
Everyone in the space kind of just stared at each other, until Rondo jumped up.
"Okay then ladies and gents, let's get this party on the road!" Rondo said, tightening his apron.
As a team they did exactly that, with everyone having his or her own set responsibility. In a matter of thirty minutes they managed to complete everything they set out to do. The bell on the oven rang loudly, and the sweetness of the dessert was highly present in the air. A full two batches of brownies, with plenty to share between the magic club and the cooking club, had been prepared. Ice cream was applied on the top as an extra.
Just down the hall was the magic club, in a room where all the windows were covered and a variety of strange flyers posted to the door. Candles were lit inside and the primary light within the space. Airi knocked a few times. The door was open, but no response came from within. She went to knock another time but Rondo appeared from behind and took the initiative.
"We heard you didn't have very many members, so we wanted to ask if you'd like to maybe join us? The cooking club, if you were wondering," Rondo said, opening the door. "And you can tell us all about your club when we do?"
Inside the room there were some things borrowed from the storage room and a bright light beamed images of the stars across the walls, several books on magic sat upon a shelf, and a crystal ball, dusty and unused, sat in the center of the room. There was someone sitting, resting their elbows on the table, near the crystal ball. A cloak was draped over the heir heads, preventing Rondo from seeing anything but their eyes.
"I'm Rondo, sup and I was wondering if you wanted to share a plate of this sweet deliciousness..." Rondo said.
Nothing else was said as then came a loud bang which saw Airi off her feet! Rondo reached down and helping her up, while the few members that were inside the room came running out. A distorted voice whispered from the intercom throughout the entire academy.
"Time to play a game kiddos. A game of life or death."
"Wait… what did him, her just say!" Airi's eyes widened with fright.
A hooded figure appeared out of nowhere, revealing itself dressed in all black. Its limbs moved in an unnatural way, sliding and hopping off the ground. Airi tried to swat at it with her unsheathed blade, but the enemy repelled her attacks.
"Screw this, let's get the heck outta here!"
Rondo grabbed her by the hand and ran towards the school courtyard. Whatever it was chased after them, wobbling its arms in an unearthly fashion. The wind blew through and over the lawn, creating a ghostly sound. As they neared the exit to the courtyard, Airi held her arm across her chest. She winced, looking towards Rondo.
"Are you scared?" Rondo questioned. "Don't worry, I'll protect you."
"Where the heck is the head chairman?" she looked around. "I don't see him anywhere."
Airi turned back for a brief moment and gave Rondo a kiss on the cheek.
"But thanks, that's very sweet of you."
He didn't respond and simply just blushed. They reached the courtyard together with dozens of others. Some however were still in their clubs, and the sports teams were practicing away from the main field. The campus was quiet just moments ago but was becoming very much lively, and that included the rustling of the wind in the trees and whatever it was that trailed them. It was enchanted by some kind of magic, maybe? That's at least what Rondo considered. It approached a group of them and coming in fast, lumbering forward and emitting a distorted growl.
"Soul Flash!" a voice called out.
A stray shining green bat with hearts resonating around its body in the form of energy launched from the roof of the school. The individual in black turned its head upward. Standing there, accentuated by the sun, was what appeared to be a young woman with short, pink hair and a slim figure. She wore an outfit that looked like a superhero from a comic, decked out in shades of blue, silver and red. A gold emblem of a hawk across her chest, and she wore a red domino maskthat concealed her identity. And topping it off was a red ribbon tied in her hair.
The heroine jumped from the rooftops and struck a three-point landing. She stood up and spun around fully, turning towards the one in black with a look of confidence.
"The heavens call, nature cries out, the student body booms! They call on me to relinquish evil! Hear me out, whatever you are! I am beautiful justice and shall abolish you to the dark realm! Blue Hawkess!" she struck a dramatic pose which left her rear end pointing upward. There were very many whispers across the lawn and chattered between various students.
"What is even happening right now…" one murmured.
"Okay, I'm so confused," another said on the opposite side of the lawn.
Comments and remarks such as this were a constant all over as many looked on. Tsukune himself made his appearance, but out of the sights of the students and watched things unfold from afar.
"Blue Hawkess?" the one in black stared her down.
"Uh huh."
She spun around once more but showed even more grace then the time before and giving the enemy standing before her a thumbs up.
"Ready to get your butt kicked? No one can escape the power and light of BH, especially those of the darkness. You shall cease to exist demon!"
Her left leg was lifted up behind her and standing on the tips of her toes on her opposite foot. The villain across from her just sort of stood in place and staring at her for the longest before grinning and then came a laugh.
"What's so darn funny, creep?" the heroine inquired.
"You… you shouldn't have come alone!"
He pointed at her as six persons dropped out of nowhere from the sky and beside him as his laughter became not only louder but more extended.
"Ha, did you really think I'd come unprepared?"
Blue Hawkess back flipped twenty feet into the air and landed about five yards back as the one in black immediately stopped laughing. What was she up to now? Everything around was silent except for the wind and numerous students conversing amongst one another. But then came a crackling sound over the academy's roof, which picked up into the sounds of footsteps running across and all of which coming from a singular direction. And in no time at all two more costumed persons leaped off the roof and landing beside Blue Hawkess.
"At my sister's side I shall fight for those in need, unable to defend themselves and true justice! Blazing Moon!"
The first of them struck her own unique pose. She had light blue hair, purple colored eyes and like blue Hawkess she wore a domino mask but in the color of silver. Her gloves and boots were in that same color with gold spandex, a dark green cape and moon like symbol over her chest.
"And for love and prosperity throughout all lands. I Star Glamorliss, shall strike you down with my fist of passion!"
Just as the two before her she also struck a pose of her own and showing off her vast flexibility. Her uniform was of dark red latex, yellow boots and gloves, a black domino mask and orange cape with her long green hair tied in two tails.
"Prepare to meet your doom cretins!" the three shouted at once in sync.
From afar Tsukune smiled, but kept quiet and held himself back from applauding. The show was just underway. Opposite of them the one in black chuckled silently, and then slowly shifting to laughter. More and more students gathered around the area looking in over all that was unfolding.
"What's all this, who're they?" someone asked as they stepped on scene.
"Not sure but I think those three are about to fight against the group of them!" the boy rubbed his hands together. "Things are about to go down."
Another stepped up beside them.
"This is about to be lit."
For a little while longer the two sides stared at each other until the three heroines dropped their stances.
"Well then, Blue Hawkess… what're you waiting for?" the one in command inquired.
"Thought you'd never ask," she winked.
And just like that bat like wings sprouted from her torso and skull, just as they had with Star Glamorliss. Blazing Moon also had bat like wings sprout from her torso but her fingernails lengthening with immense sharpness.
"Let's tango, ladies," Star Glamorliss spoke.
Both sides were ready to go but were hindered by additional sounds coming from up high.
"What now?!" the one in black looked upward.
From atop the rooftops of the academy another plunged down, and gracefully but unlike the others she didn't stick the landing and instead ended up on her side.
"Ouch!" she yelped.
She had long blue hair, and a long white tail which waved around out of the backside of her costume. Her body suit was of sky blue, gray boots, cape and gloves and red domino mask. Flipping up to her feet she gave the opposition a thumbs up and smiled.
"And I'm Kitty Klaws. Ready to tango!"
The one in black laughed again as he looked the four of them over.
"Haha, so is this it or will there be another of you joining us?"
"Do not worry evil doer, your fate is upon you. Our team of four is complete with no obstacle that can stop us!" Blue Hawkess said with much energy and enthusiasm."
"Well then, little buttercups time to put up or shut up. Let us begin this little dance."
And just like that the battle broke out as Blue Hawkess was the first to dash out towards the enemy with her allies in close pursuit as they clashed! The surrounding audiences applauded and got loud as the action picked up quickly and students from other clubs and what not appeared from all corners to see what the commotion was all about only to have their eyes and attention glued to the action. Things started fast and only escalated from there and putting a smile on Tsukune's face. Despite all the stress of what was happening in his life outside the academy, this was a breath of fresh air and taking his mind off of all that.
"Morrigan, Kurumu, Lilith and Felicia… thank you," Tsukune murmured to himself while he continued watching.
Year 1656
Tyianstormed out of a small cottage, sighing quietly. The spells in question were proving most difficult, but they were almost there. Upon searching she discovered her mother's old grimoire. It could prove very useful, at least that's what she was hoping for. Tyian wasn't aware of how the individual in question would react; primarily his body. It was nearly the witches' festival, meaning her powers would be at its peak, just as any other witch. For them it was an equivalent to a werewolf's full moon.
She walked down the dirt road with the old leather bounded book tucked under her left arm and her right hand shoved in her jacket pocket. Her journey led her down a small alleyway, and then towards a graveyard. She shoved the gate open, outwardly cringing at the high-pitched creaking metal gate. It needed to be oiled, badly. The witch had been meaning to do that for a while and then turned and closed it behind her, opening the grimoire once more. She walked over to where a lamp was, illuminating a mausoleum. Tyian stumbled over a few grave stones as she tried to read the text in the spell book.
This was something they couldn't mess up, not even slightly. The witch leaned against a door, gasping as it began to slide open. She began to stumble against it, unable to catch her footing. It must've been a fresh burial that wasn't sealed yet. Tyian walked the rest of the way in, then muttered, "Costrillia," which lit the candles that were placed around.
She leaned over one of the plots. This one must've been the person who recently died.
"Jarvis Lewis," she whispered, glancing at the dates. "Born April second fourteen eighty two, died September twenty eight fifteen ten, hhhmmm."
"About time one of you ladies returned," an individual stepped out of a dark corner of the room. "I was beginning to think you'd played me. Taken off. Hit the high road. Though, I can assure you anyone who has done so I've tracked down and they didn't live to tell the story."
"Alucard…" Tyian whispered his name.
Choked up a little she cleared her throat and straightened her posture.
"Yes, and we're ready to begin," Tyian smiled at him.
"Without your sisters?" Alucard inquired.
"Not by blood, but by spirit; yes," she nodded her head. "But yes, we shall begin the first stages. Their presence isn't yet necessary."
With her right arm extended outward she created a magic circle in the middle section of the room.
"Have a seat, this will be unlike the last time. The process of our revenge on mankind starts now."
The two of them smiled at each other as Alucard took a couple steps forward and over as he did as instructed.
"Good. Now we may proceed."
She then turned her back to him and flipped through a few pages. Soon she stopped and glancing at an incantation and began to chant the spell.
"Bitazw Ielhasmertiv, Ex Bytez, Cauverturs Newro. Yevt Bectuls, Bytez Dexztay, Ex Yevt."
She repeated these words a few times over, then read the next step. She furrowed her brows in while she looked over every small detail, but complied with the instructions. She held her palm out, face up, then grabbed a knife from her pocket and slit a line straight into her skin. A loud screech escaped her lips which echoed through the room. She then made her hand into a fist, whispering "Adaislita" a few times over, which transformed the blood on her palm into a blazing blue flame. It didn't hurt, but it was thrilling to see the affects. Alucard looked over in her direction, very much interested as to what was happening. She glanced around and sighed. But nothing. Not yet. Tyian shook her head.
"Hhhhmm, nothing." she scolded herself and walked towards the exit.
In this moment Alucard felt the gravity around him and inside the circle alter. His body felt lighter and almost as if he was levitating off the ground.
"Where are you going?" he called out to her.
"To confirm something. Patience, my king."
The remark brought yet another smile to his face. It felt good to be yet again regarded as a king, even though the masses and majority of his kingdom were destroyed right before his eyes. What they did was unredeemable! They would get what was coming to them, all of them. The destruction of all humans and their world. Oh how he couldn't wait until the day of retribution and redemption for his kind.
Tyian's wound had magically closed up on its own but a small scar left behind. In time it would heal all together. She looked towards Alucard once more before continuing on and turned back once more and headed out of the mausoleum.
As soon as she stepped back onto the grass she noticed the atmosphere around the graveyard change. There was billows of dark fog surrounding the entire cemetery but especially the mausoleum. She lifted her head to the sky, smelling the rain in the air. Last she checked there wasn't a single cloud in the sky, but that had completely changed. Odd. She heard a distant boom of thunder, followed by a quick crack of lightning, brightening the dark atmosphere. She jumped back a bit, then gasped. The lightning struck the mausoleum outright! Yes, this was it! It was working!
There was loud shouting that came from inside.
"What the hell is this going on?!" Alucard growled as electric current zipped through his body.
The witch took off and immediately headed back inside. And Alucard was glued to the ground like a magnet.
"Do not fret my king, everything is going according to plan," she said confidently. "The pain you currently feel is only temporary. Give it a minute or so and the agitation will die down."
"What now?" Alucard questioned, but sounded like he had a shortness of breath.
She shook her head whilst taking a couple steps at him.
"Zoey, Chelsla and Kuriko will be here soon. Until then, we do nothing but wait. Without their added power, there is little to nothing I can do from this point. But you were able to withstand the opening blast, just like we predicted you would. A good sign for things to come, because that pales in comparison to what's to come."
Alucard only slightly looked up her as the pain within slowly began to subside. No matter how difficult it got, or painful nothing compared to what the humans had done to him. Whatever it took; no matter how much he had to endure, he'd do it.
To be continued
