Sorry for the long wait. Once summer break starts I will try to be more frequent.
The crowd gave all types of reactions. Some of them were shocked and could barely move, some of them were talking to each other with a disbelief on their faces, and those who were able to fight along with the guards stationed there reached for their weapons and tried to approach the tower.
Subaru: Calm down okay? If you are loud you will miss out this opportunity that I'm about to give to all of you, and you sure don't want that to happen right? After all it's an offer that might or might not be important for you.
After a short while things seemed to die down a bit. Those who were speaking among each other stopped, however those who were ready to fight didn't stop and continued their way through the crowd.
Subaru: Did you all think I won't notice this? I recommend not getting any closer, if you do so I will think of it as a potential attack against me, so just stop, would you?
Although it didn't seem like it he was losing his patience a bit, but they didn't stop. Subaru noticing this released a long sigh and began without caring about them.
Subaru: My offer is really simple... Join me!
His offer seemed to come as a shock, some of the battle ready individuals stopped for a moment, others started talking between one another. A short while later a guard spoke up.
Guard: What do you mean by that?!
Subaru: Simple. Let's cause a rebellion. Let's overthrow the government just for the heck of it!
Although it wasn't visible Subaru had a twisted smile on his face with his eyes reflecting madness filled with a twisted joy. Everyone in the street was scared even more, some of them even tried to leave, however the exits were blocked.
Looking down from above it felt like the people were nothing more than bugs, waiting to be stepped on. The amount of power Subaru felt now was big enough to cause him to loosen up a bit.
Guard: No way! Why would we do such pointless thing? Why would we want to do something that a piece of shit like you tells us!
Subaru tilted his head. The smile on his face disappeared, however his joy didn't falter, in fact he felt even happier.
Subaru: Let me ask you a question. Are you speaking for yourself? Or everyone here is thinking the same way as you do?
Guard: Do you honestly think that's even a question?
Subaru: Yes, I do. Now could you answer to me real quick? I really don't want to waste my time with you anymore.
His words which started out to be somewhat joyful turned into threats. A chill ran down the guard's spine, but he wasn't backing up, not from someone like him.
Guard: I am. Nobody here wants to have anything to do with any of y…
Before he could say anything he was struck with "Minya". The guard's body was destroyed within seconds before he could even finish talking.
Subaru: Well, you heard that. Let this place engulf in flames!
The cultists who were fire magic users all started to burn the crowd and houses nearby. Mere second later most of the market was on fire, and a little while later explosions were heard from three different directions. Most of the city was now on fire.
Subaru turned around and took the rag off from the captured girl's mouth.
Girl: Why?! Why are you doing this to me?! Please! I didn't do anything!
Subaru: That's rather simple. It's because I hate you. Your mere being offends me, your mere existence annoys me, I absolutely hate everything that you live and stand for, and I absolutely despise you as a person too.
The girl was shocked. She couldn't say anything, couldn't do anything. She could only just sit there in silence while awaiting her fate. Subaru grabbed her by the hair while she silently stared at the floor.
After arriving to the balcony he threw her off. The fall wasn't a beautiful one. Her insides were exposed, some of her bones were visible and the despair on her face was fresh. She died by the hands of someone who couldn't be reasoned with in the first place. Crying for help was useless, but she realised that way before her death.
Ventus: Quick question. Were you serious about the rebellion?
Subaru: Nah. It would have been idiotic. I just wanted to see whether they would do anything in exchange for a small glimpse of hope.
Ventus: Huh. It would have been quite fun though.
Subaru: But pointless. If the rumors about the current Sword Saint is true we would be crushed rather quickly.
Ventus: But if he wasn't around, would you have started one?
Subaru: Who knows? A rebellion does sound to be the easiest and fastest way to achieve what I want.
"I would just need to burn down the capital, kill the other Candidates and most of the knights. After that I would need Emilia to be the one to stop me…"
Subaru: No, in long term it would be a bad idea. Maybe everything we do here is a bad idea, but if Sloth's Gospel said to do this then it must be beneficial in some way.
"The question is if it will benefit him or me, or maybe I'm once again missing out something like back in the mansion."
Somewhere else in the city stood a green haired person. The person was rather tall and skinny, his face was that of a corpse. He was standing in a dark alley with a few cultist on his side. Next to them were five corpses that all had their limbs broken and throat smashed. Judging by their clothes they were either thieves or beggars.
Soon smoke rose from the distance and the madman let out a smile.
Betelgeuse: I assume that is the MARK!
He rose his hands high up in the sky and soon after one explosion close to him happened. Not even a second later multiple explosions around the city were heard.
Around that area everyone was scared and confused. The guards in the area all gathered around the explosion while some civilians helped them extinguish the flames. They were all confused what happened until multiple hooded individuals surrounded the whole place. In the lead was the madman.
Betelgeuse: Now, now, now, now, now, now. What have we here? Guards and civilians working together diligently, trying to prevent the flames from consuming the whole CITY! What what what what what what WHAT AN AMAZING RESPONSE!
The people around the area all knew what was happening. They knew what caused the explosion. The guards around them didn't wait and charged at the cultists. However it was futile. In the next second all of them were decapitated without knowing what even happened.
Brains on the ground, guts on the ground, bones on the ground. The bodies were completely unrecognisable. Anyone would most likely puke by even staring at them.
Betelgeuse: Well, well. Trained guards should have more common sense then this. Charging the opponent without even knowing who they are is truly truly TRULY SLOTHFUL!
The remaining people left there were either left frozen or collapsed to the ground praying to whatever or whoever could save them.
Betelgeuse: Now then. Let me introduce myself. I am a Sin Archbishop from the Witch Cult, representing Sloth, Betelgeuse Romanee-Conti DESU!
What was heard after this were the screams of many people and the sound of the flames that engulfed the area around them.
At the same time of Subaru's "show" a blond haired woman, along with four other cultists were around a building that seemed to be the guard's base. Their job was simple, kill everyone inside before they can respond to the commotion.
"I don't like being separated right now. When we departed from the mansion the Cardinal was really, really different. However he softened up. It's not good at all. He was so, so, so close from being even more perfect. He was so close to the image I had. But then again, he is perfect even if he is kind. But for his own sake, I must help him! I can only hope that fool won't soften the Cardinal up even more, and also hope that Gravis succeeds…"
She was lost deep in her thoughts not noticing her palm which was bleeding. She was clearly frustrated, but once hearing the explosions she got out from her trance.
Erato: Move up, none may survive inside.
Somewhere outside the city were carriages filled with the captured ma beasts. Since it would have been close to impossible sneaking them in they decided to release them once the explosions are set.
Standing near the carriages were two people. Once being a blue haired girl, and the other a tall brown haired man with two axes on his waist.
Meili: Gloomy Onii-san, I'm bored.
Gravis: Don't call me that.
Meili: What's taking Onii-san so long?
Gravis: If I may ask, do not disrespect the Cardinal.
Meili: But Onii-san doesn't seem to mind my attitude at all. Besides… he said that he likes me and even called me his little sister.
Gravis was annoyed by Meili's attitude. Of course it was somewhat understandable since she was still a child, however to him it didn't matter. Even children should show respect to those who are superior to them. But he couldn't do much about it with his methods, since what Meili said were right in a certain way, at least as far as he knew. But the only thing that he couldn't do was threaten or harm her.
Gravis: Important? Who told you that joke? To the Cardinal something as insignificant like the life of others matter not. You will be thrown away once you become useless, because you are utterly worthless the way you are.
He spoke in a calm and collected manner. For some reason his speech was spot on as if he was either a merchant or someone with office work. Either way, he seemed to be an expert of convincing others.
In the meantime something was shattered. Meili's eyes were wide open from what he said. Someone at her age was easy to manipulate, especially for someone who had experience in manipulating others.
"Is this true? But Onii-san didn't seem to be like that. He is like Elsa, he cares about me, right?"
However, Meili quickly had to snap back to reality, because an explosion was heard. Gravis signalled to the other six who were around the carriages, and those using magic destroyed the city wall.
Gravis: Brat, the ma beasts. Give them their orders.
She let out a small nod to the man next to her and the ma beast swarmed into the city along with the cultists, already piling up bodies of victims around them.
Outside of the tower were burnt corpses lying around. The remaining guards around the area were either busy rescuing the injured civilians or tried to hold off the cult, while hoping to be reinforced soon.
Subaru and Ventus walked past ignoring everything around them. Their goal was reaching the mansion near the area.
Ventus: And what if it's not there?
Subaru: Nothing. I will just check somewhere else.
"If only the Gospel was a bit more specific about things. Saying it's in the city isn't that helpful, and I don't even know what I'm looking for…"
While looking around it was easy to notice that the damage haven't really spread that far. Although the street was completely abandoned since the common instinct dictated to run as far as possible from the location.
Subaru: Anyone that are not with us are an enemy, right?
Ventus: Apologies, but I don't quite understand that.
Subaru: What I'm saying is that if they knew who we were they would mercilessly slaughter us too. So what we are doing is basically acceptable.
Ventus caught up on what he was trying to say. Although he himself never felt it, many others he knew did. This was the feeling of guilt.
Ventus: I usually don't justify things like this, mainly because I don't really care about the difference between certain groups. I kill because I like killing. The thrill of a battle is the best thing that a warrior can experience, and the feeling when you kill your opponent is extraordinary! If there is one thing that I know for sure, it's that killing those you hate feels good. Really good.
"He is already experienced with this, but this is the first time I kill others without holding a grudge against them."
Subaru: Most people are pieces of shit for sure, but there must be a few that are try their best to change things around them.
"Why am I doubting myself now of all time? Is it because my resolve isn't strong enough? Heh… if Emilia knew what I'm doing she would surely hate me. But she doesn't need to know, and this is all for her sake! Yes, I need the meteor so that I can be more useful to her! And people here need to die so that…, why do they… need to die again?"
His expression was hidden behind the mask, yet by the way his body moved Ventus was somewhat able to figure out what he was thinking, and he was hoping that his guess was wrong…
Ventus: You know, killing doesn't need to be justified. In fact it's pointless to do so. Killing others is something pieces of shits do, the best thing to do in situations like this is to accept that you are a piece of shit yourself.
Subaru stopped moving and his body was frozen in place. "For the sake of a better world no sacrifice is too great" is just a stupid way of justifying murder. "For the sake of Emilia" is basically putting all the blame on her, on her who is the kindest person he has ever met.
Subaru: Yes, you are right.
Ventus had a wide smile on his face. This speech of his never failed before, since he out of all person exactly knew how the nature of a human worked and those who ended up around him were at the verge of emracing their nature.
Ventus: The nature of a human is evil. Ever since we are born we are bad, we constantly cause trouble around us. So what's wrong about embracing our nature? Isn't it bad to keep our true selves sealed? Isn't it natural to be ourselves, to seek for happiness no matter how others think about us?
Subaru: Exactly. We humans aren't influenced by others, we aren't made evil because of others, it's all just nature doing its job. I do this for my own sake! I do this, because I want a world where I can be myself without anyone telling me what to do!
Subaru let out a laughter while grabbing his head. Ventus was also proud of himself, praising himself silently. He knew that he only needed to give Subaru a slight push and he was successful in achieving that.
Subaru: One more thing.
Ventus: What is it Pleiades-sama?
Subaru: Don't lecture me again. If you do so I will kill you.
Ventus wasn't scared by his remark, instead he felt even happier. His image of a Sin Archbishop was really close to this. He bowed down before him while letting out a barely audible chuckle. Soon after the two of them arrived to the mansion which was locked up and untouched.
The place was full of guards, some of them were armed up, however most of them were off guard because of all this happened so suddenly and so fast.
While the cultists who were with Erato reduced the number of guards she stood back and watched it silently being lost in her own thoughts.
"This is all they have to offer? This city isn't even worthy to be under the attack of a Cardinal, let alone two of them."
The guards of course wouldn't just let her watch. Two came rushing towards her with their weapons draw, but they were decapitated with wind magic. Noticing that even more guard was approaching she created a huge pillar of ice lifting herself above the guards. Those who could use magic tried to attack her but even more ice got into their way.
"Weak. All of them are weak. Their devotion towards their duty, towards their master isn't strong enough, that's why they are weak. Weak and worthless pieces of garbages all of them, who think their little effort has any meaning."
Large pillars of ice appeared in the air going towards the guards who were around it crushing them all within a matter of seconds.
If she was really prominent in something, that was hiding her emotions and intents in a battle. She was close to impossible to read, both her expression and body language were barely changing. Although a major factor in this was the fact that she didn't care about fighting. She hated being on the battlefield and payed close to no attention to any of it, unless she was directly ordered to fight.
But not paying attention in battles were only one of her many mistakes. She made her biggest mistakes around Him. When it came to rules she was really strict with them, so the fact that she had to help a half elf was outrageous. However, if it was Him who ordered her to, she must abide it. A perfect being doesn't make mistakes, doesn't make any unnecessary actions.
"So far things should be acceptable. I wonder how Gravis is doing with his own part, if he fails removing the obstacle then the next chance would most likely be really far away… It must succeed. This place is perfect to forever shape the Cardinal into being even stronger in mind. It must succeed. It must. It must. It must."
Being lost in thoughts in the middle of a battle was never a good idea. While her attention was elsewhere another guard was approaching, and she wasn't quick to react. The guard's blade stabbed her left hand. Without even thinking she cut the guards head off, pulled out the swords and froze the wound on her arm.
"I screwed up. I once again made a mistake. First I loosened up around the Cardinal, then I bad-mouthed someone the Cardinal adored, and now I let my guard down…"
Erato: Annoying. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying. Annoying! All of you should just go ahead and die!
Hundreds of ice shards appeared in the sky launching itself towards everyone around her no matter if they were allies or enemies. Those who were lucky enough managed to evade, however almost all of the people present were struck by ice.
Erato: Whoops. I lost my composure. This didn't happen in a long time…
In the outskirts of the city where most civilians evacuated rampaged a pack of ma beast. The beasts showed no mercy while going for the easiest targets. Most of them were feasting on corpses of children and on corpses of the elderly.
The guards couldn't do much. Reinforcement was late and most of them have been caught off guard and killed immediately.
In the middle of the destruction was Meili, who although didn't show any horror or care she wasn't exactly happy either. On her right were corpses of civilians who were beaten to death, and in front of her was Gravis, who acted as a body guard.
Although he was fighting he didn't use any of his axes. He only used his fists. He had a twisted smile on his face, his eyes were filled with ecstasy while beating another unfortunate guard to death.
"Should I stay here? If I could sneak away I could escape from here. If I don't do this well Onii-san will punish me just like Mother usually does when someone makes a mistake, and Elsa wouldn't be here to save me…"
After a short while it seemed like everyone went far ahead. Everyone who was resisting have already died and those who could ran away were also out of sight. No one was in her sight, Gravis also suddenly ran somewhere off, most likely chasing after the civilians. This was her chance.
Two of the Ulgarm ran next to her and she proceeded to head west through the alley.
"Onii-san said that the west area must be left untouched. If I can get there and sneak out I will be free…"
However before she got out from the alley an Ulgarm suddenly pushed her from behind. In the next moment the Ulgarm's head was cut off by an axe.
Gravis: Well now, I knew I could bait you into giving me a good reason. I'm also happy that this one here "saved" you, after all it would have been a waste to kill you quickly.
The other Ulgarm jumped at him, however it was useless. Gravis took a quick step to the right and kicked the dog-like creature at the wall knocking it out.
Gravis: What are you looking like that? If you think this is personal I must say it is most certainly not. Come one, don't give up just yet, run. Entertain me a bit!
Subaru: Ventus, embrace your nature...
Those words were simple yet it carried so much meaning. Others might be confused by it, but the cultist wasn't. He let out a big smile, and soon after a powerful wind broke down the gate cutting those into pieces that were in its way.
On the outside there weren't that many people, and none of them seemed to be a fighter. There were only six, including the three that just died. Although they didn't show any resistance all of them were cut up without any mercy.
Subaru entering the yard couldn't help but notice the mess that was here. The ground was full of holes, organs and blood. Everything that was visible to the eye were almost ruined.
"I know I told him to not hold back, but I wasn't expecting this."
Subaru: Looks like you already opened the door too.
The entrance was in ruins. Those standing near it were killed when the door was destroyed. They probably had no idea about the face of the enemy.
"Usually valuable things are either upstairs or in the basement."
Subaru chose to go upstairs. On the way there were multiple servants. They didn't cause any trouble, some were even pleading for their lives, but it didn't matter since all of them were sliced up like pieces of breads.
Arriving up to the third floor two butlers were spotted. They weren't armoured however they could fight considering the stance they took. One of them took out a knife while the other supported with yang magic.
Ventus was laughing and looked genuinely excited for the first time since entering the area. However he was quickly disappointed once he let out a stronger wind which ended the battle and destroyed the whole corridor in a matter of second.
Subaru: Don't be sad, the sooner we are done the sooner you can leave.
At the end of the corridor was the door that got cowered in blood. Or at least what was left from the door was cowered in blood.
The room behind it was a well decorated office. Inside was a well-dressed man sitting on the right side of the room.
Subaru: Good day to you. I am Pleaides, the Sin Archbishop of Envy. I think you might have something that I apparently want. Do you mind giving it to me?
Man: So the Witch Cult is the one behind the destruction… What do you want to achieve with all this?!
Subaru: As I said before I only want something that you might or might not have. If you ask why this must happen then you stumbled upon the wrong person.
Man: Did you kill everyone?
Subaru let out a sigh. Although it wasn't visible he was rather frustrated.
Subaru: You know that's not how this works. You get to ask a question and then I get to ask one. Now, do you know where the meteor is?
The man clenched his fist. He was visibly angry.
Man: So that's it. That damned thing is the reason why everyone has to suffer…
Subaru: I assume you do know. If you hand it over now your death will be a quick one.
Man: My daughter… Do you know anything about her? Did you kill her too?
Subaru: Of course. People like her should just go and die, there was no way I would have left her alive.
Man: I see… I bought the meteor from a merchant about a year ago. If I knew all this would happen because of it I wouldn't have done so…
The man was tearing up. His hands began to shake although it wasn't from fear.
Man: It's in the safe behind that painting. Take it, and once you killed me please leave the city…
Subaru clenched his teeth. His fingers got deeply into his palm and it started bleeding.
Subaru: Huh? Listen that's not how you should act. You are garbage just like everyone else who is in the same boat as you. Then why act so righteous? Why act so tough? You aren't fooling me! People show their true selves once they are on the verge of death, and you will be no different!
Six spirits appeared around him and a blade of wind headed towards the man cutting his table in half and also cutting his left hand off. The man could barely hold his scream back while he was bleeding out, however he knew what the Sin Archbishop wanted, and he didn't let him have it.
Subaru: What's with that face of yours? Why aren't you begging like the pig you are? Like that bitch did before I threw her off that tower.
His next hit was a kick in the face. Some of the man's teeth fell out, but he still didn't let him have his fun.
While all this was happening Ventus, who was still proud of himself went towards the safe to open it.
Subaru: You should all be the same. She became the way she was because of you. She had to die because of you. And just as you said, everyone here is dying because of you!
Man: I was like that once and that is undeniable. But not long ago I was saved by those that I looked at with disgust. You said when people are dying they show their nature, and you are right. This is my true nature. This is because I changed over the months.
Subaru: Changed? You are laughable. People don't change. Everyone is evil ever since they are born. And deep inside you also want to live, deep inside you also want to beg for mercy, deep inside you are still a disgusting person who would throw everyone away just to live!
Man: I won't try to reason with a Sin Archbishop. I can only pity you.
Subaru was furious. Not only this wasn't how he expected to happen he also knew that if he kills him he will just play onto his hands. However before anything else could have happened Ventus spoke up.
Ventus: Pleiades-sama is this the one?
Ventus held a ring in his hand. That ring was a red one.
Subaru: One of the Ten Curse Meteor Rings... But that's only one. Where is the other nine?!
Man: Who knows? The merchant only found this one.
Subaru: Give me that!
He quickly put the ring on his little finger and pointed it towards the noble. However he didn't use it.
"This things take a toll on the body. It would be idiotic to waste my wellbeing on this nobody."
Subaru: Don't think that I will let you off with this. I will make you beg. I will make you scream. I will make you admit that you, along with everyone else are nothing more but pieces of shits!
Going closer to the man Subaru noticed it. The man was dead, he probably died from blood loss. However there was something else he noticed. There was a smile on his face. That wasn't a fake one, in fact it was genuine. That smile was the smile of someone who just won something really important.
A few minutes after the whole building caught on fire. The fire wasn't caused by any explosion but rather by magic.
The place was filled with corpses that were impaled in ice. Those that were quick enough to react managed to survive, although it was only two guards. Everyone else had an ice shard inside themselves. In the middle of the carnage stood the one who was responsible for such action. Although the attention was now on her she didn't even bother with it. Rather she was staring at somewhere else with an emotionless look on her face.
However no one was about to question anything. The remaining guards rushed towards her from different directions. However before reaching the woman who still didn't give any reactions they were all killed by a sudden wind that came from above.
Erato: What are you doing here?
She spoke in an empty tone. Looking above her was a man with a tied up green her who had a smile on his face which quickly turned into a look of disappointment.
Ventus: Here I thought someone strong is here and all I can find is you. Not only that, those morons were the only ones left here. What a waste of time…
Erato: Your order was to stay with the Cardinal!
Ventus: But he clearly didn't want me there anymore, besides we finished just a moment ago so I decided to jump over.
Taking a good look at her the man couldn't help but notice the wound on her arm. His smile once again returned. Soon after he started laughing.
Ventus: Looks like that bad "habit" of yours is still there! And here I thought you became less moony since the Cardinal joined us!
She didn't react to his words because she knew that he was just baiting her. She knew his annoying personality well enough.
Erato: If that's all you want then go back and do what your Gospel tells you.
Ventus: Ahh right. Well… why should I go back? I thought the Gospel shows us our will and I clearly want to be here.
Erato: So you are going against your Gospel?
Ventus: Didn't I tell you that I want to be here?
The smile on his face grew even bigger and the air around the two became cold. They were now waiting to be either interrupted, or waiting for the other the make a move first.
Erato: Going against the Gospel is the same as going against the Cardinal.
Ventus: What a flawed logic you have there. Listen closely for a moment. The Gospel is just a tool that helps us with future plans, right? But I don't have plans, I just go with the flow. I live for the present, and I honestly don't give a shit what my future brings. If you think like that you will never be able to appriciate the little things you have right now.
Erato: So you are going against the Cardinal's will?
Ventus: Not really. I just want to appriciate the time that we are spending together right now.
Before anything else could be said ice flew towards the man who boosted himself up with wind in order to dodge them.
Ventus: Killing you will be the only thing I enjoyed today.
Wind and ice collided with each other and ice shards were scattered all around the place. The destruction the two caused was unrepairable, however throughout the entire battle they seemed to be even.
But it really couldn't be called a fair match. One was just blocking and jumping around while the other was standing injured unable to use one arm.
Yet she was fighting with the clear intent to kill her foe who was smiling through the whole battle enjoying himself like a child at a playground.
The battle was ongoing for minutes, however nothing extraordinary was happening. Ventus didn't do anything at all, other than enjoying himself while he could. He did exactly what he said. He enjoyed what the present had to offer to him.
"This asshole is doing this on purpose! Not only he never listened to me, but he knows how much I hate him and he makes use of this! And that's not only that…"
Erato: Why aren't you taking this seriously?!
The battle suddenly stopped. The noises the wind and ice created ceased as the two who was at the middle of the destruction stopped their battle.
Ventus: That arm looks really bad you know. There is no way you could beat me like this, and if this ended quickly I would be a bit disappointed.
A wide grin raised on his face while he aimed his hand towards Erato's injured arm.
Ventus: Let me help you with it, shall I?
Cultist: Ventus, could you stop this childish play and be a bit more civil? Or do you want me to intervene?
Suddenly a voice spoke up from behind Ventus. It was a man with white hair, which cowered his left eye. His right eye was light blue, he was around the age of 20 and he wore a regular cultist robe which was cowered in blood. Behind him was a small silhouette.
Ventus: If you want to join feel free to. May the strongest survive, right?
Cultist: I never said I would be neutral…
"I need to get out of here!"
Running down the alley was the young girl who thought she was held at the cult in high regard. She was running for her life now separated from the rest of the cult the only thing she could hear was the fire in the distance and the ma beasts that she called back, which were now being slaughtered.
"I need to…"
Suddenly a corpse flew past her crashing into the wall. It was a corpse of a civilian who failed to escape. This person's skull was bashed in, the face completely deformed and the bones most likely broken do to the impact.
Gravis: I love doing this. The sound of the shattering bones is music to my ears. I love every aspect of the human body, because there are lots of ways of breaking it.
The man's fist and robes were red from the amount of blood that was on them. The blood was mixed between human and ma beast blood. Meili, who was on the other end of the alley was terrified and began to run once again.
Running. Running. Running. She couldn't think of anything but running away, however her pursuer was always just behind her making it impossible to escape far away. She even tripped a few times ripping parts of her clothes and causing smaller cuts on her.
"Elsa… someone…"
She ran into one of the houses and barricaded the locked the door as fast as she could. She was hoping to find another exit, however it didn't quite work out. The door was broken down in a matter of seconds.
Gravis: Let's just end this, I still have other people waiting for me to kill.
Meili tried to back away but it was utterly useless. Gravis kicked her in the stomach and lifted her up by the arm.
He let out a smile that was filled with malice and madness, and broke Meili's index finger. The latter tried to hold her screams in, but tears have fell from her eyes.
The next was the middle finger. More tear was flowing but no scream escaped from her mouth. The smile that was present moments ago completely disappeared and he let go of Meili's hand.
Gravis: I really hate it when people act tough… Ah well I guess I just have to go with my favourite part.
He pulled a knife out of his pocked and licked it. After that he cut her dress exposing her chest.
Gravis: I'm going to open up your ribcage and break your ribs one by one. If I'm lucky you won't die right away.
Meili: Huh?
His smile once again returned. He let out a small chuckle and by the time he forced Meili to the ground he was laughing hard, enjoying what was about to come.
The man, who was always killing others bare handed, the man whose fist said to be as strong as metal pushed her to the floor. Someone at her age… no, no one could get up from this situation without having a physical build above avarage, or being a magic user.
But before he were to start, he put his knife away. He wasn't planning opening her up with that. Why should he? He had his bare hands after all. He always enjoyed the feeling of touching others insides. Touching others bones. Breaking others bones. The sound was pleasant, the sound was calming, and the sound was satisfying.
However his joy was cut short when he noticed a knife sticking out from his mouth. Before he could even start he was fatally wounded. The tears inside Meili's eyes turned into a glimpse of hope when she noticed another cultist standing behind Gravis.
Cultist: Thank you for giving me a good excuse to finally get rid of you. I really am grateful to you.
With his final strength Gravis turned around to see a cultist whose robes were cowered with his own blood. This cultist had a white hair cowering his left eye and a tired voice. His expression didn't say much other than he would rather be alone where no one would bother him.
With one last look with his eyes filled with hatred that was going in the direction of the cultist he finally fell. Gravis died.
Cultist: I don't get people like him. What's so fun about torture? If you want someone dead just aim for their head, and if they are lucky they will die.
"Who is this? Is he here to save me?"
Meili still had a scared expression on her face while trying to hide her broken fingers from the newcomer.
Cultist: Sorry for not interrupting before. Your fingers being broken is my fault. I just wanted this asshole to die moments before he could reach his happiness. By the way my name is Johan.
The cultist whose name was Johan reached out his hand. After a while of being still Meili also reached out with her left hand to him.
Johan: Do you want me to fix them up or would you rather have the Cardinal heal it?
"I would rather not bother Onii-san with something as worthless as this…"
She reached out her broken fingers to Johan whose expression didn't change at all. He knew he could have prevented this, yet he didn't feel any guilt about letting it happen.
Johan: Are you sure about this? It will hurt.
Meili: Yes, after all I would rather not bother Onii-san with it.
Johan: I doubt it would bother the Cardinal. He seems to be quite fond of you.
Meili: Liar…
As soon as she said that a sudden pain once again jolted through her fingers. Small drops of tear once again appeared in her eye, but at least her fingers were in a better shape.
Johan rubbed his forehead and let out a small sigh while taking a small glance at the corpse that was at his feet.
Johan: Let me give you a piece of advice. Don't believe anything others say to you. Creating doubt in others was something Gravis deeply enjoyed, that was the reason why he practiced his speech. He was the one who lied to you, the affection between people doesn't get reflected by words, but by actions.
Meili: And why would you help me?!
Johan: I didn't help you. I hated him and let him pursue you, so that I had a good excuse for killing him.
Nothing else was said. Meili had nothing to say to this and Johan didn't want to force the conversation to go any further.
Johan: Right. You can't walk around dressed like that either. Here.
He took off his robes and tossed it at her. Although they were much bigger than her they were better than nothing.
Meili: Thank you…
Once leaving the house he pointed at a building only a few blocks away from them.
Johan: If you don't mind could we take a detour there?
"That place where those loud noises were. I came close to it hoping I could escape in the middle of that."
Meili nodded and the two of them began heading into that direction, but the noises suddenly stopped. Noticing this Johan grabbed Meili and with the use of Yin magic he jumped into the yard of the military settlement…
Ventus: So you are siding with her? Fine by me. At least things will be a bit more entertaining!
After proclaiming his statement he let out his magic which flew towards the cultist cowered in blood. But before it reached him he took out a staff. He was prepared to be attacked by him so once the magic reached him it did nothing, as if nothing was ever casted.
Ventus: What did you do? What is that thing? Johan, when did you manage to get something like that?!
Johan: I'm not entitled to answer you. But let me ask you something. Who will kill who?
He pointed the staff at Ventus whose eyes were filled with the slightest hints of fear. He was clenching his fist in anger.
Ventus: So what? You have a meteor that can absorb magic, should I be scared?
Johan: Considering you heavily rely on magic, yes, yes you should. Unless of course the both of you stop this nonsense. It's a bit annoying to look after others.
"What is he doing here? No, more like why is she here?! That moron failed to do his only job!
Erato: I don't care about your concern!
Johan: I never said I'm concerned about you Erato-sama, I just can't stand people like him, so I decided to offer you a hand if he wants to fight.
Meili, who was behind Johan walked next to him with her hands behind her back and also spoke up.
Meili: Shouldn't you three stop? Onii-san surely wouldn't like that all of you are acting like a child!
"Just who does she think she is? Annoying brat! Why are you even alive? And where the fuck is Gravis?!"
Erato: This is none of your business, so get lost! Don't act almighty just because the Cardinal likes you! Don't pretend to be special, because you are not!
Johan let out a small sigh and rubbed his forehead. He wasn't only bored now but annoyed too.
Johan: She is right. If this turns into a three way battle you would be the first to die so please leave.
Meili: But… Crazy Onii-san you also know how Onii-san would hate this right?
Ventus: Meili-chan, Johan is right. Stay out of this, because you will get caught up.
He looked at Erato with a smile on his face. He had many ways in going past the staff so Johan didn't matter much to him. He raised his hand into both directions and was ready to unleash his magic to the both of them.
Voice: Would you idiots stop? I'm in a really bad mood right now…
A dark silhouette walked into the scene with spirits surrounding him. This person wore a black mask and a pitch black version of the cultists outfit.
Erato: Pleaides-sama…
Subaru: What happened with your arm?
Without receiving an answer he ordered the blue spirit around him to go near her and it began to heal. Tears of happiness appeared in her blue eyes.
"I'm not worthy for your worry Pleaides-sama…"
Subaru: So, what is this about?
Ventus: Nothing at all, we were just having a conversation.
Subaru took a look at Erato who was silent. She didn't know what to do since she couldn't just lie into his eyes, and telling the truth would just cause unnecessary troubles for him.
Johan: As he said Pleaides-sama, we were just chatting with each other. Her injury came from a battle against an enemy.
"Is this okay to lie? Should we really lie? What if lying will make things worse?"
Subaru: I see. Sadly that spirit won't be able to fully heal that so bandage it up.
Subaru took a look around the place which was a bit of a mess. He also noticed Meili strangely hiding behind Johan and that she was also wearing his robes, however as of now he didn't pay much attention to that.
Johan: What shall we do next?
Subaru: We are leaving.
Ventus: Huh?! Ahh I mean… why? Not even an hour passed so why are we leaving so fast?
Subaru: Because I got what I wanted, so there is no reason to stay here. At least for us. I already recalled everyone with the Conversation Mirror and only you didn't answer it.
He took a look at Erato who could barely keep eye contact. Subaru let out a small sigh and proceeded to continue.
Subaru: Don't fret about it. I already know that you were busy with that idiot.
He pointed his fingers at Ventus whose face stiffened and unconsciously backed away.
"So he knew? Then lying really was a bad idea. Of course it was, why wouldn't it be? The Cardinal is perfect, he can see through lies."
Johan: Move idiot. He said we are leaving.
Ventus clenched his fist and followed along. Johan didn't show much care for it so he silently obeyed. Meili still followed behind Johan.
"It really is strange though. Why are we leaving so early? It doesn't make sense."
Although she took it better than Ventus she still had her own confusion, but none the less they all left the yard of what was once a guard station. Now it was nothing more than a place full of corpses and ice.
Somewhere else in the ruins of the city stood a madman tall, surrounded by burnt corpses and his devoted followers. He was gazing into the distance, admiring the chaos around him, while having his Gospel wide open.
Betelgeuse: Hmm, hmm. Looks like everyone here has been really DILIGENT! This sure will send them a message. A message that will make them fear, a message that will make them TREMBLE! So rejoice diligent followers of her LOVE, she will soon return to US! Return, return, return ahhh MY BRAIN TREMBLES!
The crazed smile on his face is almost enough to tell anyone that he is not someone to mess with. The fact that he was moving his body in uncomfortable ways that shouldn't be possible further proved it. His mumbling made little to no sense either.
Betelgeuse: We won't have to wait much much much much longer… Now then. I think it should be time now.
He let out a giant grin on his face and left the scene. Not long after giant explosions were heard in parts of the city. The earth beneath them was shaking and the dust covering the sky completely blocked the sunlight in the area around the explosion. The amount of explosives needed to achieve this must have been hard to come by.
Further away from the city were multiple hooded figures looking back at the place once they heard an explosion.
"He is surely not holding back… And it looks like five of us didn't make it. Ah well, you win some you lose some, at least they died for what they believed in."
Subaru was walking a bit further from everyone else. He was at the back of the group and didn't bother too much with the rest. He was gazing at his little finger, fantasizing about the power of this new weapon.
Up in the front, as far away from Subaru as possible was Meili still walking with Johan, who although kept a poker face was annoyed by her company.
Johan: Mind telling me why are you still following? Your finger should be fine. It wasn't broken to pieces just got a little bit out of its place, and the other injuries are just small cuts, those are insignificant.
She didn't answer. Johan let out an annoyed sigh and proceeded to ignore her presence hoping to be left alone like that.
Arriving back to the camp everyone went their separate ways.
On one of the ends of the camp stood a man around the age of 30, although by only looking at his face it was genuinely hard to tell his age, next to him stood two other cultists who were stiff as a rock. They weren't moving an inch and it was impossible to tell that they were even breathing.
Walking close to the man was Erato who got injured back in the city. The man who noticed it turned around to reveal a sickening smile. But that wasn't the only disgusting thing about him. The man had a long and messy blue hair, and multiple patchworks cowering his face. One on his forehead, one between his eyes, another at his left cheek and one around his neck. His left eye was red and his right eye was black.
His face looked more than strange and not only because of the patches. It seemed like that the skin was different. As if it belonged to someone else, however it blended in so well that it was really hard to notice without staring at him for a longer period of time.
Cultist: Well now, I assume you are here to seek my assistance?
Erato: Filling the wound is enough.
Cultist: Are you sure? I could replace that arm with a better one. I have some spare parts over there.
He pointed at the two cultist still standing still, not giving any reaction at all to this situation.
Erato: I don't care. Fix this up Donovan.
The man named to be Donovan shrug his shoulders at put his right arm above her wound and cut it with a knife. What was stranger than his actions was the fact that his right arm was a slight bit longer than the left, but it wasn't too much of a bother to him. Soon his blood started to flow into the wound, which was slowly filled up and seemingly disappeared while his own wound closed up.
Donovan: I know I allways say it, but try not to put too much pressure on it. If you do so it will reopen. You know, that's why you should just let me replace it with a better one.
She didn't say anything and proceeded to leave him behind, but before she could leave he spoke up once again.
Donovan: Ahh one more thing. Assuming that Gravis hasn't returned I would like to ask if someone recovered his body or not?
Erato: If you want it go ahead and recover it yourself.
Donovan: What a pity. He could have been a useful one to have around.
On the other side of the camp was Johan, who was finally left alone. He didn't do much back at all, he was just sitting by himself in piece and silence. Until his peace was interrupted by Ventus.
Ventus: So, where did you get your hands on that fancy staff?
Johan: As I said before I'm not entitled to answer.
Ventus: Fine, keep your secrets I couldn't care less. However, don't think that you are better than I am…
His expression changed into a cold and threatening one while looking down at Johan, who didn't seem to care at all.
Johan: Are you threatening me? After being so scared of the Cardinal you think I will care about your threats?
Ventus: Scared? Hardly. I have no intentions in opposing the Cardinal. After all, if I live through the end of all this a world that I desire will welcome me.
Johan: I world that suits us huh…
Ventus: You don't seem to be that interested.
Johan: That would be hard to achieve since everyone has different needs. For example, I wouldn't want to live in your world.
Ventus let out small giggles and showed a smile.
Ventus: Yeah, makes me wonder who he meant by "us".
Johan let out a sigh and Ventus walked away from him. Once again Johan regained his moment of piece.
Sitting alone near a carriage was a young girl lost in her thoughts, in fact so lost she didn't notice someone sneaking up behind her, which ended up scaring her.
Meili: Onii-saan could you not sneak behind others like this?
Subaru: Sorry, you just seem a bit off today. Thought I could try to cheer you up.
Meili: You don't seem to be happy either. Did you fail?
Although his reasons might have sounded stupid, he still had his fair share of experiences. Or perhaps a slap of reality hit him once he met with the person who was the exact opposite of what he wanted to see.
Subaru: Nope. See I got what I wanted.
He showed her the ring on his little finger. After an awkward silence Meili, who looked disappointed spoke up.
Meili: For a ring…? Onii-san, why is this even useful?
Subaru: Well there was supposed to be ten of them in total, buuuut I have no clue where those are… So, did something happen? And judging by your appearance something did happen.
Meili: Am I… do you… do you hate me? Am I a burden to you?
Subaru: Huh? Who said that to you?!
Meili: What?
Subaru: Ahh sorry. Back to your question. My answer is no. It's really fun to have you around. Talking to you feels nice and you are a really kind person. Also you are surprisingly mature for your age.
She was just sitting there in awe. "So this really was the truth" she thought to herself.
Subaru: And not to mention your ability. It's super useful and overall powerful. And you are the only person I can normally talk to, like seriously have you tried talking to these guys? Even if I wasn't in this position as I am right now I would still have a hard time.
Meili: The same goes for me Onii-san. I think that you and Elsa are the only people I ever truly got along with. Ahh right, and with Petra-chan! How about I tell you about her later?
Subaru smiled and patted her gently on the head and suddenly took the ring off from his finger.
Subaru: Here. Consider this as another gift. I think I should be fine even without it.
Meili: Huh? Are you sure?
Subaru: Don't overuse it though, it takes a small toll on the body, so use it only for self-defence.
She gave a small smile and the two of them have talked for a few more minutes. However soon after Sloth and his group was also back from their carnage that left a mark on the city.
Part of his group settled down in the camp while he walked in the cave and soon after Subaru followed him inside. Once he spotted him he noticed that he was quickly scrolling between the pages of his Gospel with his mouth wide open.
Betelgeuse: I have some new! Amazing developments! This update is way beyond my EXPECTATIONS! In fact so beyond that I had to double check IT!
Subaru: You seem exited. I assume it's not about the city at all.
Betelgeuse: It is indeed not. Back in the city my Gospel mentioned a HALF ELF! She lives around the Kremaldy forest inside a MANSION! I am overjoyed, so so so so so OVERJOYED! My brain TREMBLES!
After standing silently for a matter of seconds a sudden realization kicked into Subaru.
Subaru: Hey, hey, hey! Didn't I tell you that going after a so called "vessel" is a complete waste of time?!
Betelgeuse: According to my Gospel I must go there and test her OUT!
Subaru: I told you, it is a waste of time.
The air was filled with pressure. Anyone who would walk in would most likely feel a cold wind blowing towards themselves. A wind so cold and strong that would force anyone into place, after all two Sin Archbishops were at disapproval with each other, which would most likely not end well.
Betelgeuse: Are you telling me that I must go against her very words…?
Subaru: My words are her own. That useless book in your hand will never take you to your happiness.
The eyes on the madman's face began shaking in anger. He gripped his Gospel with an insane strength. Nobody knows what keeps him away from killing the one, who dared defiled the gift that his Witch gave him.
Subaru also sensed it. The malice inside Betelgeuse grow larger and larger every second. He knew that stopping him was close to impossible. He knew that he was a ticking bomb from the start, but to show disloyalty so soon…
Suddenly Subaru raised his hand and without a warning a purple crystal struck the chest of Betelgeuse. He wasn't waiting, he wasn't making any risks. He wasn't planning to waste his time by dying and doing all this pointless things again. If he were to do that he would just have to wait more and more to see Emilia.
Soon the body of the madman completely shattered and turned into shards. The only thing that was left was none other than the Gospel he carried.
"What a bummer. I was too rash, I should have cut his head off. Like that I could have had evidence about his death. Ah well, it matters not."
While going out from the cave he wasn't looking back at all. He was moving forward with a great disappointment on his face. Disappointment that the one he thought he completely had under control was so unstable.
"At least I learned my lesson. It really is a waste though, he could have been useful once I decide what to do with our rivals."
Subaru: Erato, tell the other that we are leaving for the capital. And hurry up! I want to be there before the Candidates are announced!
"If we hurry we could be there within less than two weeks. Until then I will come up with a believable story and claim cre…"
Woman: How dare you? How dare you? How dare you? HOW DARE YOU?! Not only defying her will, her love, her care, her very kindness you even attack me, her most devoted follower too!
A voice filled with anger spoke out from the left side of the camp. This voice belonged to a woman with short red hair who was also one of the many cultist in Sloth's group.
Subaru: Know your place you garbage. Just who do you think you are talking to? And besides, did we even meet before? Or is this how you greet someone when you talk to them for the first time?
Everyone who was around gathered around the two. Erato was ready to cut this insolent piece of shit's head of the moment she were to make a move, Ventus was filled with excitement who hoped that an all-out battle would break out. The rest of the people gathered weren't showing any expression, they were all waiting.
Woman: Me? Of course you know ME! I am the Sin Archbishop of Sloth Betelgeuse Romanee-Conti!
The group was now divided into two. Those who were in Sloth's fraction all seemed to know what was going on. Those who were with Subaru were cautious and some of them were interested on how things would go.
Subaru: Nonsense. If he heard you imitating him like this he would surely kill you. So how about I spare him the trouble? Minya!
A purple shard flew towards the "impostor" but before it reached it was broke into pieces by some invisible force.
Betelgeuse: Authority of Sloth, Unseen Hands.
She spoke in a calm manner. After her sentence was finished Subaru's left arm was suddenly ripped off by the invisible force that was already demonstrated before.
Although he felt the pain he didn't have the urge to scream. He didn't feel like he had to scream. In fact he was somewhat even relieved that he only lost an arm.
In the next second and all-out battle broke out. The two fraction started to attack each other. The power gap was a bit different though, Subaru's fraction seemed to have more experienced and stronger fighters, however the difference in numbers were much greater and Betelgeuse had a much stronger destructive power.
Ventus: Finally! I didn't think I would get the chance to fight against one of you in a while!
While Subaru froze the wound on his severed arm Ventus charged at Sloth barraging him with wind. Surprisingly, Sloth wasn't as effective with defending himself, so soon enough death struck again with now his head being cut off by the wind.
Erato: Pleaides-sama, are you all right?!
Subaru: Shut up and kill every last one of them!
"This is a restart for sure. I won't be going without an arm, and I also refuse to be humiliated like this!"
While suffering casualties themselves, they managed to kill most of those cultists who were around them.
Man: Well now, well now, well now, well now. So, so, so, so, so SLOTHFUL! All of them died like nothing, all of you trampled on them like NOTHING!
He was back once again, now in a body of an old man. The invisible "hands" ran past the battlefield killing almost everyone who were there, not making difference between allies and enemies.
Subaru: Shamak!
Unleashing the first spell he learned he rushed out of the black mist. Although he wasn't the only one to do so. Boosting himself up with wind, Ventus flew out and attacked Sloth once again.
Ventus: As expected from a Sin Archbishop! Killing you will be an amazing challenge!
The both of them wore a smile on their faces. However while one was filled with madness and anger, the other was full of excitement and ecstasy.
"Is that guy actually planning to fight me at some point…?"
The battle between them didn't go on for much long. Ventus managed to apparently dodge the Authority multiple times, but whether this was luck or instinct it was a mystery. However Betelgeuse couldn't block forever, and his new body was cut in half. While dying he didn't do anything but laugh and laugh until his body wasn't functional anymore.
Subaru: Good job if I must say.
Soon after Shamak completely faded. What was noticed by Subaru was a bolt of blood flying through the battlefield, killing the rest of Sloth's cultists. The source of the blood was the patched up doctor, who was wearing a calm smile while blood was being manifested around his fingers.
"Was that some sort of Divine Protection?"
Donovan: So, was that all of them? If so aaaand if you don't mind, I would like to acquire Sloth's corpse.
Ventus: You and your hobby of messing with corpses is just too much even for me. If nobody is against it I would like to go after the rest of them.
Erato: Could you two mind yourselves and talk about your idiotic hobbies later?
"I wonder where I would be when I restart."
Erato: What really matters is if you can heal Pleiades-sama or not?
Subaru for a moment couldn't help but take note of their conversation. Heal? This was repairable?
Donovan: Oh please. Reattaching an arm or a leg is a child's play, even an idiot could do that. I can even improve on it if he wants me to. Pleaides-sama, would you prefer your old arm or a stronger aaaand better one?
Subaru: Explain would you? Does this have to do something with that Divine Protection or whatever you just showed?
Donovan: Indeed! I am undoubtedly the best healer in the whole world. An injury like that is nothing in front of my amazing patchworks and Blood Manipulation!
Subaru: I don't care as long as you can put it back.
Donovan walked away to pick his severed hand up and Ventus also left to do his own… thing.
Erato: I am deeply sorry for being unable to take that blow. Please punish me however you want, after all my incompetence put you into this position.
Subaru: Don't fret about it. This was all on me. Later I will explain, go and look for remnants yourse…
Before he could finish he suddenly found himself lifted up in the air. He couldn't see anything because his eyes were cowered with something that felt like a hand.
"Ahh, so this is the Unseen Hands… This seems really useful. I'm a bit Jealous now..."
Those were his last thoughts before everything became completely dark. How he died was unknown to him, however he was probably smashed into bits, or maybe his head was the one that took the damage, either way it didn't matter.
Standing atop a tower was Subaru, with a mask on his face along with a dark cultist outfit. In front of him were the citizens of this city, all of them showing different reactions, however most of them were panicking.
"Huh? So I'm back here. Great, I guess this was a complete waste of time, and not only that but I have to plan everything all over."
Although he still wasn't sure about two things. One of them being how he should deal with Sloth, and the other being the reason why he should hate him. Should he hate him for killing him or disobeying him? Or perhaps hate him for making him wait longer until he sees Emilia?