A Different Fate

by Musal

What if Train didn't know Creed killed Saya? What if he believed it was Chronos? What if Train helped Creed create the Apostles to get revenge on Chronos? What happens when Train learns the truth? CxT

70. Goodbyes

Now that I've pretty much wrapped up the 'side fights', the next chapter will have Train and Creed back and begin focusing on them again.

I hope I still have people reading! Even if I don't, I'll keep going :)

Disclaimer: I do not own Black Cat or its characters.

---

Belze took a firm hold of the end of his Gungir, his other gripping at the top towards the blade. With a straight, unyielding face, Number II sliced the sharp end of his spear in an upwards motion, using his full strength to keep his weapon steady.

With a heavy, yet elegant swing, the large man tossed aside a lightning bolt Aja launched at him. The bolt clashed against the thick, sharp service of his spear, creating a momentary blinding light before it bounced off and into the empty space above Belze.

Noticing the tip of his blade was flaring from the electricity, the assassin swung his weapon in the air a few times, ridding the blade of the static that hungrily engulfed it.

"What an impressive blocking! Too bad your precious leader wasn't here to witness it. Tell me, just exactly who are you showing off for, Number II?"

Belze glared in the direction of Doctor's voice. The scientist was floating on the panther's back, smirking maliciously at him as the beast snarled ferociously.

Number II slammed the pole end of Gungir on the ground. "Are you going to enter this fight any time soon, Kanzaki? Or are you simply going to continue making smart remarks on the safety of your beast's back?"

Doctor pushed his glasses further up his face, the gleam of the sun making it impossible to see his eyes. "Oh, but I have. Or at least the current state of your numbers says I have."

Belze gripped his weapon tighter. He didn't need to look around to know the state of their battle.

Chaos… It's absolute and utter chaos.

The rest of his numbers were engaged in heated battles with what looked to be a majority of the Shooting Stars and child experiments, but there was far too much pandemonium for him to see what precisely was happening.

Between the children's Tao and Nanomachines, there's too much dust and debris kicking up to see anything. At this rate, the entire forest will be decimated.

There was too much anarchy to discern what the children's Taos were. He saw every element known to man flash inconsistently across the sky, he saw daggers, bullets, and arrows constantly zipping by, and heard explosions nearly every minute.

None of which I can tell if coming from a Tao, or a weapon. There's not even a way for me to distinguish if it's from my side or their side.

Belze narrowed his eyes at the scientist who seemed to know where his thoughts had wandered to. "The discord happening around us has nothing to do with you. All you've done is sit on your beloved panther and give your monsters commands."

He began stepping towards Kanzaki and Aja. "If you want to keep your degenerate leader's respect, I suggest you lift a fist before it's sliced off!"

Number II's slow walk quickly turned into a sprint as he lifted the blade end of Gungir above his head. As he ran, Belze slammed the blade end of his spear into the ground and leaned his upper body back. He kicked his legs up and used the momentum of his sprint and the force of his weapon in the ground, to vault himself in the air towards Kanzaki and his beast.

Kanzaki smirked amusedly at Belze as he flew in the air towards them, then gave Aja another command. "Blinken!" (1)

Belze wasn't surprised when Doctor and his beast disappeared. It had happened so many times during the fight that he was used to it.

This is why I haven't been able to land a good blow on him.

Belze was certain that as soon as he landed just one hit on Kanzaki, it'd be the end of the madman's life. Before the battle even started, Number II could tell by the disheveled, tired look in the scientist's eyes and the haggard breathing he seemed to be plagued with that Doctor was about to collapse.

He must be exhausted from overusing his Tao. Try as he might to hide it, I can tell he's at the end of his rope.

Like so many times before in their fight, instead of landing on top of the cat like he planned to, Belze fell to the ground, landing gracefully as he readied Gungir at his side. He remained kneeling in an attack position, ready for an attack to come from anywhere at any moment.

Seeing movement out of the corner of his eye, Belze reacted instinctively and swiped his weapon to the side, standing up straight as he faced the direction of the noise. Seeing another flash of lightning, Number II knew Kanzaki had disappeared yet again.

Coward…

Belze cautiously walked in the direction he believed Doctor and Aja were, making sure his motions were quiet. He was aware the commotion of the war around him might have been enough to dampen his footsteps, but he had a feeling Aja had heightened senses.

Chances are that thing can see in the dark and even smell its prey.

Number II's head turned rapidly to the side when he heard another lightning crash come from a new direction. Not wanting to miss a rare moment when Kanzaki and his beast were on the ground, Belze sprinted in the direction of the sound, swinging Gungir to his other hand.

Just as he was about to reach the location he believed Aja and Doctor were in, he heard the scientist let out another command.

"Kommen!" (2)

Belze snarled and skidded to a halt, throwing Gungir in front of himself to block a claw attack from Doctor's other creature. The wolf had not made many appearances, but when he did, they were quick and powerful. The last one nearly broke the wrist of the hand that held his weapon.

Number II cursed as Aztec's claws swiped at him, slicing shallow slits along his fingers and knuckles. Despite the pain, Belze did not waver. In fact, he reacted quickly and spun his spear to the other side of his body, blocking a swipe from the wolf's massive tail.

His body grew. That answers my question about whether or not he can change size. That must be how he's been able to keep himself hidden.

"Schrumpfen!" (3)

As soon as Doctor spoke that command, Aztec shrunk. Since Belze spoke fluent German, he understood what Kanzaki's commands were.

That confirms it. He's using the disorder around us and the wolf's ability to change sizes to keep him in the shadows. And since that panther is able to flash away when it wants…

Belze knew the battle was going to be tough, but he did not think he'd be fighting Doctor and his creatures alone. At the very least, he thought he'd have the numbers to back him up, but they were too preoccupied with the rest of the Apostles' lackeys to help.

I didn't think I'd lose Sephiria before the war even started either… I hope I can find her soon.

Belze didn't want to admit he was worried about his leader, but he was. When they separated, she wasn't acting like herself, and he was concerned Doctor's Dreamworld had gotten to her.

I don't know how such a strong willed woman could let such a weak, pathetic man get to her, but I know the demons she has hidden in her subconscious. There's no telling what he showed her.

"Bolzen!" (4)

Belze immediately translated the German word and turned to run in the opposite direction of Doctor's voice. After battling Kanzaki for as long as he had been, Number II was able to figure out what the creatures were going to do after receiving a command.

Belze held back a grunt as he dove forward to avoid a massive lighting bolt that struck the ground just behind him. The sheer size of the bolt created a tremendous crater in the ground and littered the air with dust.

Rocks of all shapes and sizes rained down on Chronos' second in command as he pressed his body flush to the ground, covering his head with his hands to protect his skull. Before he flattened himself on the ground, Belze threw Gungir down and laid on top of it. He didn't want to be separated from his weapon.

Once he felt the last few rocks pelt his back, Belze shot himself up, grabbed his spear, and spun around. Just as the number was about to be hit with a second, slightly weaker lightning bolt, Belze sliced Gungir in the air again, using the blade to deflect the attack.

The assassin gritted his teeth and swiped his spear down, shoving away another bolt that was sent seconds after the first one. He next swiped his weapon to the left, then to the right, slapping aside two more strikes Aja fired at him before he stabbed Gungir into the ground.

Belze glared in the direction Doctor and Aja were, unable to see them behind the debris, but knowing they were close. "How much longer are you going to hide behind your beasts, Doctor? Are you really that much of a coward that you'll spend the final battle ordering those monsters around instead of getting your own hands bloody?"

He could feel Kanzaki's smirk behind the fog and could hear his chuckle as if the scientist were standing right next to him. "I assure you my hands have been bloody plenty of times. The Black Cat is proof of that."

Belze harden his glare as he watched the smoke slowly dissipate. Once he was able to see the golden, murderous glint of Aja's eyes, Number II lifted Gungir up to his chest and aimed the tip of its blade in the direction of Doctor's voice.

His stride was slow at first, his gaze focused on the cloud of dirt as he watched it disappear. As it faded, Belze quickened his pace until he was running at full speed. He kept his eyes locked onto the glint in the panther's eyes that pierced through the smoke, using the lethal gaze of the beast as his guiding light.

Number II saw Aja narrow her eyes and flash her silver fangs. It was obvious the creature saw him, and Belze knew she wasn't going to remain still for long. His plan was to reach them just when the smoke disappeared, but since he was sure the panther was going to flash away again, Belze changed his course of action.

Number II stopped and began spinning his body in a circular motion with the tip of his spear pointed out in front of him, and the pole end extending behind his back. Using the remaining smoke around him, he surrounded his body with the fog, flicking his weapon slightly to kick up more dirt from the ground.

The murky veil of smoke shrouded him in its twilight, new dirt mixing with the ore-existing obscuring vapor, wholly engulfing the man's large frame. Belze continued spinning until he was positive he was completely concealed by the smoke, making sure he clotted its thickness. He wanted to be certain he was hidden from Aja.

After a few seconds, Belze ceased his twirling and took in his surroundings. He was no longer able to see Aja's eyes, but he was hoping that had to do with how thick he had made the foggy encasing around him. That was the entire point of his plan.

I don't know if this is enough to confuse that panther, but I hope it'll help even a little.

He could hear Doctor giving both his creatures several commands that told Belze his idea had worked. The monsters were currently surrounding the spiral of smoke Number II created, most likely readying themselves for the assassin to jump out at any point.

The fact that they aren't immediately attacking means they most likely can't see me. Is it possible Doctor thinks I've somehow managed to escape the smoke without them noticing?

Belze smirked.

Now's my chance.

Number II stabbed the pointed end of his spear into the ground and used its stability to throw himself up into the air, above the whirlwind of dirt and soot he had created. The moment he became visible, Belze ripped his weapon out of the ground and sliced the air with it.

The first thing he spotted was the wolf and as much as he wanted to attack Aja and Doctor, he decided the dog would have to suffice.

Aztec's tail was currently turned into what looked to be level III of Creed's blade as it flicked back and forth behind him. The creature's eyes shot up when Belze leapt out, and he growled in discontent.

Belze ignored the monster's glare and allowed his body to fall down on the beast. Aztec tried to react quickly by throwing his tail sword forward, but was only able to brush Number II aside, preventing him from landing a lethal blow.

The assassin, on the other hand, was able to make contact with the wolf. The sharp end of his spear embedded itself into the creature's shoulder,emitting a harrow howl from the giant dog.

Once Gungir's blade was firmly planted into Aztec's flesh, Belze set both of his feet on either side of the beast's body and pushed himself out. The excruciating scream Aztec let out when Belze landed on him was nothing compared to the pitiful whimper he made when he pulled the blade out.

As Number II pushed himself away from the creature, Aztec swiped his bladed tail at the assassin. Belze barely had any time to react, but he was able to avoid what would have been a deadly blow directed at his stomach. His quick reaction caused the attack to miss by a few inches and sliced open his midriff instead.

He grunted painfully, his body skidding to a halt as his hand shot to cover the laceration. He felt blood seeping between his fingers, the hot, sticky liquid staining his digits.

That was too close for comfort.

Belze didn't have time to think or tend to his wound as Aztec leapt in the air and swiped his tail the number's face. The assassin jumped back, but felt the tip of his nose get nicked.

Again, the assassin was forced to jump back as the wolf's claw came up and swiped at his chest. Belze hissed as the creature's claws shredded his shirt and slashed his chest, slicing the skin as more blood leaked from his body and defiled his skin.

Belze cursed when he saw the beast's tail flipping around from behind him and leaned back as far as his body would allow to dodge another swipe from Aztec's sword. As Number II veered back, he felt the blade of Aztec's tail narrowly miss his face, cutting the hair that had fallen in front of his face.

Had he not reacted when he did, he would have surely been decapitated.

The assassin groaned in pain when his back hit the ground, his fingers firmly gripping his weapon. "Damnit…"

The number's ears perked when he heard rustling coming from behind him and kicked his feet up to push his body off the ground. The moment his upper body moved away from the ground, Belze saw Aztec's blade embed itself in the ground.

Once he was standing, Belze was forced to somersault to the side to dodge a lightning bolt sent by Aja. His rolling continued as the panther sent what seemed to be a never ending wave of electrical shocks at him.

I'm losing more blood by the second. Shit, this isn't good.

He felt Aztec's tail follow directly after each of Aja's lightning bolts, and he could hear Doctor's commanding shouts over the cacophony of the battle.

I gotta give it to the madman, their teamwork is impeccable. He's trained them well.

Had Belze not been running for his life, he would have been impressed with Kanzaki's ability to get those beasts to listen to him so readily.

Do they see him as the alpha? Or do they listen because he's their creator?

Belze stopped rolling the moment he heard the lightning stop and threw himself in the air. Aztec took that opportunity to throw his sword tail forward, slicing horizontally at Belze's back, creating another deep abrasion on his flesh.

The assassin stifled his grunts of pain and sprinted to a nearby tree. Glancing over his shoulder, he noticed Aja's attacks had stopped because she was caught in another battle. Belze watched as Doctor tried to command the panther to turn away from his new opponent, but Aja would not listen.

Thank you, Beluga. I needed a break.

When Beluga glanced at Belze, Number II nodded in gratitude and continued running.

Now I just need to get this damn wolf off my tail, then I can tend to my wounds.

Belze knew he didn't have the materials to heal himself, but he could use the clean parts of his clothing to at least stop the bleeding.

That's my number one priority right now.

That statement caused his thoughts to briefly drift off towards his leader as he heard Sephiria's voice waft into his ears.

"Belze… There's something I need to tell you before the battle begins…"

Belze gave the woman a concerned look. "Is it further orders?"

Sephiria sighed and shook her head. "No… It's…"

Belze's thoughts were cut off as Aztec swiped at his feet, hooking his ankle and throwing him on the ground. Number II managed to refrain from screaming in pain as the wolf dragged him along the ground. He stabbed his spear into the dirt as deeply as he could and gripped tightly to its pole.

He gritted his teeth as the wolf's blade cut into his ankle, the tip of it embedding itself further into his flesh as his body stretched to its full length. Belze growled as he tried to pull himself free, refusing to let out how much it hurt to have his bruised, bleeding body stretching to its limits.

Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse.

As Belze tried to think of a way out of the situation, he felt his body drop to the ground and heard Aztec release another harrowing howl.

He let out an arduous groan when he landed on the rocky terrain, pushing himself up on his hands so he could look over his shoulder to see what was happening, and smirked at what he saw.

They must be lessening the Shooting Stars numbers drastically to be able to come help me.

He saw Nova, Nizer, and Kranz ganging up on the wolf who was increasing his size and swiping wildly at the numbers. An arrow sent from the trees told Belze Emilio must have joined the fray as well as it planted itself in the center of the wolf's back.

I wonder how many of the Shooting Stars and experiments have been dealt with.

Belze made it clear to the rest of his team to leave Doctor and his beasts to him while they dealt with the rest of their enemies. The fact that they were lending him a hand meant they must have reduced their opponents' numbers.

As Belze attempted to push himself off the ground, he froze, remembering what Sephiria told him before they parted.

The children are to be taken alive. Did they keep that in mind? Are the children dead or incapicated?

Number II grunted as he fell back to the ground, his body too weak to hold himself up. Just as he was about to push himself up again, he felt a hand wrap around his elbow as an unknown force dragged him along the ground.

Belze lifted his head and saw Kanzuki was pulling him towards a tree, the small man clearly struggling with Number II's massive size.

Wonderful, now I'm being dragged by this annoying pest. I'll never be able to live this down.

Belze shoved the man's hand away and pushed himself up again. "I can move myself."

Number XIII frowned and slipped a hand under Belze's arm. "This is no time to be prideful. You need to seal up those wounds before you bleed out."

As embarrassing as it was to have a man half his size help him, Belze allowed Kanzuki to be his crutch as they hurried over to a tree. Once there, Number II sat himself down and immediately began ripping his clothes apart, wrapping them around the various wounds on his body.

Seeing the younger man was about to help, Belze stopped him with a stern glare. "How many are dead?"

Number XIII frowned. "On our side or theirs?"

Belze winced as he wrapped a makeshift bandage around his arm. "Both."

The number frowned. "No numbers are dead, but there are countless Shooting Star's bodies scattered throughout the woods. We'll have to send for clean up once this is all over."

Belze nodded, then asked a question he was concerned to have answered. "What about the children?"

Kanzuki sighed and sat down. "Marisol has been setting them aside and checking on their vitals. So far, we've only suffered one casualty of the children."

Belze sighed quietly in relief. "Good."

Kanzuki's frowned remained. "That was just a guess, Number II. There could be more dead. It's utter chaos out there."

Belze nodded. "I know. Thank you for telling me what you know." He grunted as he wrapped another makeshift bandage around his waist, then gave the man an impatient look. "What are you waiting for? Get back to battle."

Number XIII stared at the large man for a second, then nodded and leapt back into the fray.

Once he was gone, Belze rested his head against the tree and shut his eyes.

It sounds like we're doing good… but why don't I feel that way?

Belze felt like he was a disappointment to his leader. While he didn't know how long they had been battling for, he knew it was long enough that he should have been able to dispose of one of Doctor's creatures.

If not that, then Doctor himself. I promised Sephiria I would bring his head back on a silver platter if I ran into him without her.

Belze swallowed thickly as he recalled the conversation they had.

"Sephiria… Are you sure you're okay?"

Sephiria smiled kindly at him. "Yes, I'm fine."

Belze wasn't convinced. Sephiria had a look of forlorn and worried in her eyes, her face paler than usual, and just in general looking uncharacteristically disheveled. He could tell she wanted to tell him something, but seemed to be struggling with herself on whether or not she should.

Sephiria put up a hand to stop the man from pushing the subject further. "I don't know how much time we have, so I want to speak quickly."

Belze nodded and locked eyes with his leader.

Sephiria glanced at the rest of their team, then looked back at Belze. "Heartnet and Diskenth made us promise to avoid killing as many people as possible."

Belze frowned. "And we're going to fulfill that promise?"

Sephiria sighed. "As best as we can, yes. The one promise that will be unwavering is the one we made to not kill the children. That matter is something I completely agree with."

Belze nodded. "And the Shooting Stars?"

Sephiria frowned. "...Relay my orders to the rest of the numbers if we get split up. Even though I've already made it clear, I want to make sure they understand our goals."

Again, Belze nodded and posed another question. "And the Taoists?"

Sephiria glanced at Train and Creed. Seeing they were preoccupied with one another, she turned back to Belze. "Other than the one who is a child… Deal with them as Chronos would."

Belze knew what she meant and nodded again. "And I am to leave Charden do you, correct?"

Sephiria smiled. "You know me too well."

Belze couldn't help but smile as well, since her smile seemed warmer than usual. However, he turned his face serious again. "And what about Kanzaki? Am I to leave him to you as well?"

Sephiria paused, staring at Train as she spoke. "As much as I'd like to see the man pay for crimes with my own eyes, I trust you to deal with him accordingly if you find him without me."

Belze nodded. "I'll bring his head back to you as proof of his fate."

Sephiria's laugh threw Belze off since that was only the second time he had heard it. He wanted to be happy, but seeing the woman in such good spirits only worried him more.

Sephira gave him a coy smile. "You wouldn't happen to have a silver platter handy, would you?"

Belze smirked. "...Had I known it would make you happy, I would have brought one with me."

Sephiria smiled warmly yet again, and Belze's heart actually skipped a beat at the affectionate look he was receiving from the woman. If he didn't know better, he'd say there was a hint of love behind her eyes.

"Belze… There's something I need to tell you before the battle begins…"

Belze gave the woman a concerned look. "Is it further orders?"

Sephiria sighed and shook her head. "No… It's…"

"Number One, I think we need to break up whatever is happening between the Black Cat and Diskenth before the Apostles show up. They seem to be getting a bit too carried away."

Sephiria turned to Nizer who was giving his leader a stern, but submissive look.

Sephiria glared at Creed and Train who seemed to be having an amorous war with one another.

She sighed, and walked away from Number II. "I'll break up our lovelorn companions."

Belze watched as she walked away, the longing in his heart growing as possibilities of what she was going to say flooded his mind.

Belze stared at the sky as he spoke. "...What could possibly be so difficult for you to say?"

Belze shut his eyes again, allowing the sight of his leader's face to consume his vision for a moment.

Would she be disappointed in my failings during this battle, or grateful I'm alive?

His ears perked as an explosion erupted next to him, drawing his attention to Nova, who was skidding to a halt several feet from him. Her steely eyes were locked onto something in the distance, and she sprinted out of his line of sight just as quickly as she had skidded in.

Number II narrowed his eyes and pushed himself off the tree.

Whatever she would think of me right now isn't important. What's important is that I keep my word to her.

He turned his head around the tree and scanned the area for Doctor.

I'll bring that man's lifeless body back to her as proof of my loyalty. To her and to Chronos.

---

Eve stood with her feet rooted to the ground, her body frozen from shock as an icy chill slithered down her spine. She found Sven, but he was not in the condition she wanted him to be in. It wasn't just his physical state that sent waves of dolent shivers throughout her body, it was the man's emotional state as well.

"Sven…"

Eve wanted to comfort her guardian, but was unable to move. It was as if her feet were glued to the ground, her body weighted down with misery and anguish.

"Sven…"

She cursed herself for being unable to say anything that even remotely resembled compassion. She felt like an incompetent imbecile repeating the sweeper's name over and over again.

Sven was rocking with Nica's lifeless body in his arms, the woman's deceased face buried in his blood soaked shoulder. It was difficult to tell where the sweeper's blood began and the woman's ended as the viscous, maroon liquid sullied Sven's pristine, white suit.

The older man's wretched sobs cut through Eve's heart, carving out a piece of her soul and shattering it into oblivion. Hearing the man she admired wailing in agony with a dead woman in his arms wholly pulverized the Bio-girl's spirit, sucking the vivacity out of her.

"Nica…" The man whispered into the woman's unresponsive ear. "Nica… I love you too…"

Hearing her guardian whisper those words gave Eve the verve she needed to finally move and she did it at such speed it was hard to believe she had been rendered immobile mere seconds ago.

"Sven." Eve muttered as she ran up to the man, wrapping her arms around his neck. "It's okay…"

Sven didn't register that someone was offering him sympathy. Even if he did, he was not ready to receive it. Instead of responding to his kind hearted ward, the sweeper pressed Nica firmer against his chest and buried his face deep into her sanguinary locks.

He choked on another sob as his chest heaved miserably with every breath he took. "Nica… Nica… I'm sorry…"

Sven felt his throat constrict with lamenting pain. "I… I couldn't save you…"

Watts' harsh voice entered Eve's ears, his words acrid and unnecessary. "Couldn't save her? Was that your plan? To come here and whisk her away with you and the other sweepers?"

Eve gave him an acrimonious look. "What did you do to her?"

Eve was easily able to surmise the woman had been killed by Watts' daggers.

The knives surrounding Watts remained still as he snickered. "It wasn't my fault! My target was that old man, not Nica."

He frowned at the dead Taoist. "I may have been fed up with that woman's insufferable guilt and empathy, but that doesn't mean I wanted to kill her."

Eve locked eyes with the man as he stared at her, a carcinogenic glint in his eyes as he spoke. "It's not my fault she insisted on dying for that useless man."

The Nano-girl narrowed her eyes, easily working out what happened before her arrival. "...You incomparable bastard."

Watts put a hand over his heart, feigning pain. "Ouch! That hurt! I thought we were friends! When the hell did you get here anyway? And how were you able to find us?"

Eve hardened her glare. Honestly, even she was shocked at how she was able to find them. After her fight with Leon, she took to the skies and began her search once more.

And when I saw the explosions in the distance, I knew it had to be them.

Before she dove down, she was positive she saw Doctor's monsters hovering around another area of the forest, but something told her not to go there yet. Something told her to follow the explosions that were just beyond the beasts.

I made the right choice. Whatever is going on with those creatures can be handled by someone else. My family needs me.

Eve smirked, her newly found mischievous side coming out again. "Lady Luck took a break from Train and lent me her powers of fortune."

Watts' smirk faltered upon hearing the Black Cat's name and he snapped his fingers again, creating a wall of daggers behind him. His expression became virulent as he spun his fingers around, readying the barricade of knives behind him.

He scowled at the woman. "How about I send you to Hell first? That way the cat and his lover will have a friend waiting for them when they get there."

Eve watched the man throw his arms forward and launched the screen of daggers at them. The girl, totally unphased by the attack, released the hold she had on Sven and turned both her arms into two towering shields. They were so thick that they nearly reached Eve's shoulders and so massive they were able to protect herself, Sven, and Nica.

The girl kept her eyes forward and dug her heels into the ground, making sure she remained still as she felt the daggers dig into her shield arms. Even though they had been turned into shields, they were still her arms, so she felt every single painful attack that hit her.

However, Eve wasn't one to easily succumb to pain. Instead of crumbling beneath it, she gritted her teeth and bared the pain, knowing it was nothing compared to the agony Sven was in.

It's my turn to protect you, Sven.

She glanced at the man who still did not seem to notice what was going on.

Even though it looks like I'm too late… You've already been hurt beyond comprehension.

When she felt the last dagger land in her shields, Eve threw both her arms to the side, glaring gallantly at the Taoist who seemed furious at her ability to take so many hits without even flinching. She could already feel her Nanomachines working diligently to heal her.

Keeping her eyes locked onto her enemy, Eve turned both her arms into swords, then smirked impishly at the Taoist. "That's awfully cocky of you to think you could send both Creed and Train to Hell. Considering you weren't a match for him even when he was tied up, that's a rather bold statement to make."

Watts growled and shot his hands up, creating two new walls of daggers as he screamed. "I'LL SHOW YOU HOW STRONG I REALLY AM!"

Just before Watts launched the attack, she glanced at Sven to see if he had risen from his heartbroken coma yet. Seeing he had not, Eve ran full speed at the man, swiping her arms in every direction to knock the knives out of the sky.

Eve saw Watts' face contort in rage as she ran at him and threw herself in the air. She sprouted her wings again and spun her body in the air, slapping away the next wave of daggers with her feathery appendages as she torpedoed towards her enemy.

With her body still spinning, Eve turned her arms into hammers, aiming her twirling figure at the Taoist. She tilted herself slightly, giving herself the appearance of a drill as she fell on Watts' prone figure. He tried to throw more daggers at her, but the girl was spinning so rapidly that he was unable to land a single blow on her.

A look of determination was etched onto Eve's face as she fell on the man, making sure her hammers hit Watts directly in the chest and stomach. She avoided his vital points since she did not want to kill him, but made sure there was enough force behind her attack that Watts wouldn't forget how strong she was.

The moment Eve made contact with him, Watts' body flew several feet backwards before landing ruthlessly on the ground. Eve slid on one foot and one knee on the ground, staring at the Taoist who was groaning pathetically.

Eve wasn't the type to kick a man while he was down, so waited for him to get up. "If you can't take on a little girl like me, then there's no way you'll ever be a match for Train and Creed."

Watts groaned on the ground, turning his head to spit up a wand of blood. He placed his hand on his stomach and rolled to the side, leaning on his arm in an attempt to push himself up.

The moment he applied pressure to his arm, he fell back on the ground. "Damn… Bitch…"

Eve pouted. "How derogatory. Although, I guess it is fitting considering what scum you are."

Watts rolled over and stared at the sky. "...This battle is pointless, along with this banter. We both know you won't kill me. None of you sweepers will."

He coughed again, able to tell several of his ribs were broken. "It doesn't matter what difference there may be in our skills, it's all for naught when one side intends to kill, and the other refuses."

Eve gave the man a sweet smile. "Was that you admitting you're outmatched? That I'm stronger than you?"

Watts tried to laugh, but found it impossible to do behind the pain. "Fat chance… I'm just stating the obvious. If you won't kill me, then what's the point of this battle? Why fight if you don't have an endgame in sight?"

Eve stood up straight and began walking towards the man. "What makes you think just because we won't kill you that we don't have an endgame?"

Watts rolled his eyes. "Don't give me that shit about living happily ever after with your family. It's sickeningly cliché and over hyped!"

Eve cocked an eyebrow. "Over hyped? Have you experienced it before?"

Watts gritted his teeth, refusing to respond to the girl as he took in a slow, haggard breath. "Mind your business, Brat…"

Eve sighed, realizing she didn't truly care about the man's background story.

It won't change anything. It won't change the fact that I won't kill him, and it won't change what he did to us.

She glanced at Sven, who was still rocking Nica's dead body back and forth in his arms.

...Knowing what Watts' past was won't bring Nica back, and it won't fix Sven's broken heart.

"Why did you kill her?" She continued walking towards him, her arms still shaped like hammers.

Watts lifted his head. "I was telling the truth. I didn't mean to kill her."

Eve clenched her fists. "With the amount of wounds covering her body, there's no way you didn't realize what you were doing."

Watts laughed, then coughed at the pain the motion caused. "Guess I'm just clumsy…"

Eve gritted her teeth.

There's no use talking to him about this. He won't regret what he did.

"There's no redemption for you…" Eve scowled as he spoke that statement.

Watts laughed again. "Then why not end my life? Just kill me and be done with it!"

Eve narrowed her eyes. "Death is not the answer. It's the easiest way for you to deal with your sins… Or I guess to not deal with your sins."

The girl continued walking forward. "And for some sick reason, it's clearly what you want, but it's not what you deserve. What you deserve is to be locked away so you can sit in solace with your crimes and never hurt another living soul again."

She clenched her fists. "Even though you may never see the error of your ways… Being locked away is the best solution for you. You need to be locked away so you can't cause any more damage."

Eve began walking faster, closing the distance between them. She lifted her hammer arms high in the air, her gaze locked onto his face. "I'll make sure you never hurt anyone ever again!"

Eve leapt into the air, spreading her wings to give herself more height before she fell on the Taoist. She pulled her arms back as far as she could, making her wings disappear so gravity would take her.

However, her plans were changed when a wall of dirt surrounded Watts, encasing him in a dome of earth. Instead of landing on her enemy's head and knocking him unconscious, Eve fell on a solid, thick mass of land.

As soon as her feet touched the earth, Eve sprouted her wings again, pushed herself off and back into the air, and flew away from the scene.

She scanned the area for the old man she knew was the cause of the dome, hoping she'd be able to find him before he attacked again. Before she could spot Kenneth, she saw another plot of earth elevating from the ground and aimed in her direction.

It was shooting up fast, but that wasn't what unnerved the girl. It was the fact that the ground was sharpened to a fine point, giving the dirt and rocks directed at her the appearance of a large dagger.

Eve cursed and flapped her wings faster, turning her body around so she could fly away from the ground hastily rushing towards her. However, with her back facing the massive, spiked dirt, she was unable to see how close or how far it was, but she didn't have time to look back.

Sven… Where is Sven? Is he still with Nica?

Eve's eyes darted around in search of her guardian. She didn't know how close Kenneth's dirt sword could reach, but she didn't want to find out.

I need to know where Sven is. I can't leave him alone with the state that he was in.

The Bio-girl turned her head in an attempt to spot the sweeper, then let out a painful screech as the sharp wall of dirt sliced her shoulder. When she turned her head to look for Sven, her wings slowed, giving Kenneth enough time to land a hit on her.

Eve felt her body careen out of the sky, her wings flailing ineptly as she fell into the jumble of leaves and branches in a tree. Eve gritted her teeth as the tree's branches cut her at flesh, the sharp edges leaving shallow cuts along her porcelain skin.

She cursed again as she came to a halt, although it wasn't by choice. When Eve felt her body no longer moving, she opened her eyes and blinked a few times, then looked up to see what stopped her.

Eve growled in frustration at what she saw. Her wings were caught between two branches, causing her petite frame to dangle like an unseemingly Christmas ornament.

The girl lowered her head and took in a deep breath, disappointed in herself for getting swept out of the sky like a measly fly.

That was pathetic…

She could hear Kenneth's cackling from the distance, which was soon followed by Watts' voice.

"What's wrong, Little Girl?! Can't handle a little dirt in your eye!"

Eve rolled her eyes, but did not respond verbally.

Is that his idea of trash talk? He needs to take a lesson from Train.

Eve wrapped both her arms around a branch that was just in front of her. Once she was settled, she shriveled her wings back into her body, then sat herself on the branch to catch her breath.

Where is everyone else? Was Sven by himself? Did he get separated from everyone else?

Eve shut her eyes and banged her head against the tree, giving her Nanomachines a moment to fix her new wounds.

If that's the case, then I need to grab Sven and get out of here.

No matter how strong Eve knew she was, there was no way she'd be able to protect Sven and fight off two Taoists by herself.

"Come out, come out, wherever you are!" Watt's voice taunted from below. "Are you giving up already?"

Eve breathed a sigh of relief knowing they didn't know which tree she had fallen into.

Although, I don't know how good it is since that makes Sven an even easier target to hit.

Feeling her Nanomachines sealing up the last of her wounds, Eve pushed herself away from the tree, kneeled on the branch, and peaked between the leaves. Watts' last statement gave his position away, so she knew he was getting closer.

If I sit still, maybe I'll be able to get the drop on him.

Eve turned her arms back into hammers and moved closer to the edge of the branch, preparing to fall on her enemy.

She could hear his footsteps getting closer and closer, then suddenly stop. Eve's heart froze and her muscles tensed, her entire body going on high alert as she mentally and physically prepared herself for an attack.

When nothing happened, Eve cocked an eyebrow and tried to peer lower.

Where is he?

After a few seconds of silence, Eve jumped back into the tree as a wall of fire engulfed the ground beneath her. Within seconds, the grass and leaves that littered the earth burnt up, leaving nothing by a pool of fire in its place.

Eve smirked, understanding washing over her.

Why does she have to be so dramatic?

Unable to see where Kyoko was, but hearing Watts' embittered wails, Eve chose to leave the tree in a different direction since falling to the fiery ground would be useless.

Eve transformed her arms back to normal and turned around. She climbed up the tree, choosing not to sprout her wings until she was at the top. Once she reached its peak, she skimmed the area again, trying to find Sven.

Her head jolted quickly to the side when she saw an explosion of mist erupt next to the tree. The moist cloud quickly shrouded the area, making Kyoko's flames disappear almost immediately as another voice entered her ears.

"DAMNIT, KYOKO! How many times do we have to tell you to be careful?! We don't want to burn the forest down!"

Eve smirked at Rinslet's voice.

I'm glad she's okay.

Eve couldn't see Kyoko, but she could tell the girl was rolling her eyes. "I am not going to burn the forest down! Kuro-sama helped Kyoko perfect her skills! I am in complete control!"

"Tell that to the decimated land just a few yards over there!" The next voice belonged to Jenos, which made Eve feel more at ease. "Those poor trees didn't know what hit them!"

Eve could tell Kyoko was pouting. "...That was an accident."

"Our only kiss was like an accident!" Kenneth's maniacal voice resounded hideously in Eve's ears. "A beautiful gasoline rainbow!"

"STOP WITH THE RANDOM, NONSENSICAL QUOTES AND GET THEM!"

Watts' voice was soon followed by chaos, telling Eve the battle had started again. Knowing the Taoists were distracted by her friends, the Bio-girl took advantage of it to keep looking for Sven.

Now's my chance to make sure he's okay and maybe even snap him out of it.

Eve sprouted her wings again and launched herself into the sky.

And if I can't snap him out of it, maybe I can get him away from the fight before he gets killed.

The young sweeper's pink eyes skimmed the ground as she searched for her guardian, stopping instantly when she saw the man still curled on the ground with Nica in his arms. Without hesitation, Eve dove to the ground, landing next to the green haired man.

Despite the panicked hurriedness in her heart, Eve approached slowly, not wanting to startle Sven.

"Sven…" Eve whispered, her hand squeezed Sven's shoulder. "You can't stay here…"

Sven was no longer sobbing, but his eyes were distant. It looked as though he had dried up, unable to shred any more tears from pure exhaustion and lack of moisture in his body.

Eve frowned, then opened her mouth again to speak, but was interrupted by Sven.

"I… I failed…" Sven whispered as he tucked a few strands of Nica's hair behind her ear. "I… I didn't save you… I failed you, Nica…"

He buried her face back into the woman's hair and squeezed her against his chest. "How can I call myself a gentleman if I can't save one woman?"

Eve wasn't sure if that question was directed at her, but she decided to answer. "Your honor does not hinge on the life of others, Sven…"

She squeezed his shoulder tighter. "Especially not those who chose to walk a dark path…"

Sven's body trembled. "If… she chose to walk a dark path… then it was my job to be her light… it was my job to lead her in the right direction…"

Eve stared at her guardian's back for a moment, unsure of how to respond to the man's despondent, fatalistic statement.

There's nothing I can say to that right now… What I need to focus on is getting him to safety.

"Sven… You have to let her go. I know it hurts, but now is not the time to mourn."

Sven gritted his teeth. "I know Eve, but…" He let out a long breath. "What else am I supposed to do?"

Eve sighed. "Live, Sven. It's what she would have wanted. Move forward one step at a time. Don't give up and die here. If you did, her sacrifice would have been in vain."

Eve felt Sven relax. "We should get you out of here before they realize you're still here."

For the first time, Sven turned away from Nica and looked at Eve. "I'm not leaving."

Eve frowned, feeling as though the tables had turned on their relationship. "Sven, you're not in the mindset to fight. You have to go, now."

Sven narrowed his eyes. "No. I'm not leaving. I have to see this to the end."

He turned back to Nica, gently caressing her lifeless cheek. "...I have to make him pay for what he did to her."

The sweeper shut his eyes and pressed his forehead against Nica's. "I'm going to take that man down… and I'm going to see to it that he never sees the light of day ever again."

Sven pulled away, gently scooping her up in his arms as he stood. "I'm going to make sure his freedom is stripped away… just like he stripped her's away…"

Eve watched as Sven walked away with the dead woman in his arms. "What are you doing?"

Sven did not look at Eve. Instead, he kept moving forward with Nica's inert body in his arms. "I don't care what she did to us, she deserves a proper burial."

He felt himself choke on his next words. "And since I can't give one to her right now… I'm going to make sure she's safe until I can come back."

Once he was a few feet away from Eve and next to a large tree, Sven kneeled on the ground and laid her body down. Once she was settled, he stared at her face for a moment, his lower lip quivering as he covered her body in a blanket of leaves.

With his eyes still locked onto Nica's lifeless face, Sven reached out and caressed her cheek, the pain in his heart expanding, threatening to consume his soul once more. However, he managed to keep the lugubrious feelings at bay as he tenderly kissed her forehead.

He lingered for a moment, his hand still on her cheek as he pulled away. "...I love you, Nica."

Sven pressed his forehead against the woman's again. "I'll come back for you. I promise."

Despite the fact that tears were what he needed to make the pain in his heart bearable, he knew he couldn't unleash another river of emotions yet. There was a war they needed to end.

I'll put an end to the Apostles for her.

Sven took in her genteel form one last time before prying his gaze away and turning to Eve. His eyes gleamed intently at the girl, letting her know he was not going to be swayed away from the fight.

"Let's end this."

---

Belze's heel scraped along the ground, dust billowing around him as he used his spear to fend off another of Aztec's claw attacks. His arms were trembling from exhaustion, his muscles aching with fatigue, and sweat pooled out of every pore of his body.

He locked eyes with the beast who was intent on ending his life. Number II felt a bit uneasy as looking into the wolf's eyes since they almost mirrored Creed's. While Belze had never looked the swordsman in the eye for very long, it was hard to ignore the piercing blue color they held.

And just like Diskenth's, they cut through my soul. The determination mirrors that man's as well.

He knew the beasts were created from the Black Cat's and Creed's DNA, but it was still shocking how nearly identical their eyes were. Akin all the way down to their killer instincts.

Even though that instinct departed those men long ago, it's alive and well in these creatures.

Belze felt his back hit a tree as Aztec pinned him against the bark. He gritted his teeth, ignoring the immense agony he was in as his makeshift bandages ripped apart. The number was covered in blood and bruises, his vision blurring from the pain, but he was not going to give up.

I will not lose this fight.

Belze felt Aztec's hot breath wash against his snafued skin, scalding his flesh and dispatching an influx of rage throughout the assassin's body. As he at the creature, Number II felt a moment of malcontent connection with it. He felt as though they were bonding over their mutual acrimony for one another.

When Belze felt droplets of saliva dripping off the beast's fangs and splash against his cheek, he clenched Gungir tighter. Using whatever strength he could muster, Belze dug his toes into the ground and pressed his heels against the tree behind him.

Belze violently pushed the monster away, releasing a savage roar as he threw his body at Aztec. The wolf's paws grated against the ground, dirt embedding itself between the beast's claws as he slid away from Number II.

Belze was relieved that he was able to get the creature away from him, but his shove only gave him a few feet of space. However, the assassin wasn't one to look a gift horse in the mouth, so he seized the opportunity to attack the monster.

The large man bellowed out another thunderous bark as he lifted Gungir high in the air and ran full speed at the wolf. With just a few alacritous steps, Belze was only a few inches from the monster and his spear was planted directly in Aztec's chest.

The creature let out a harrowing howl as he stepped away from the number, the sharp spear ripping out of his flesh as bits of blood splattered all around. Aztec stumbled away from the assassin, shaking his head as his lips twisted in misery.

Belze took a step back to catch his breath, eying up the wolf to assess the damage.

Its hide is thick. I'm surprised I was able to get Gungir through it.

Belze had tried to puncture the creature's flesh so many times that he wasn't sure if it were possible. The most he had been able to land on the monster was a few scrapes and scratches which healed up so quickly, Belze was positive Aztec forgot they even happened.

Even if I was able to get my spear stuck in him before, he probably would have healed before I could blink.

Number II growled when he saw the gaping hole in Aztec's chest already healing.

The Nanomachines may be able to heal him, but they don't cover up pain. I'm grateful for that.

Belze narrowed his eyes when he saw Aztec's head raise and meet his gaze. Number II twirled his spear around and rolled his shoulders, ready for the beast to attack again. His body couldn't take much more, but the stubborn man refused to give in.

I will defeat this beast and the monster who created him.

Number II ignored the pain and enervation in his arms and lifted them up again as Aztec howled into the sky. He knew the wolf was going to run at him, so he had to be prepared.

When the creature ceased its howling and glared at Belze, the assassin dug his feet into the ground and tightened all the muscles in his body. He had been duking it out with the wolf long enough to know how difficult it was to stave him off.

Except this time I won't thwart his attack. I'll roll with it.

It was rare for Belze to go head-to-head with an opponent who was bigger than him, so he decided to use the fight as an opportunity to use skills he had not had a need for in years.

Belze kept his eyes locked on the wolf's feet as Aztec ran towards him. Glancing at the space between the beast's feet and the ground, Number II estimated how much room he had.

Deciding it was enough, the assassin ran towards the monster, Gungir still at the ready as he dropped his lower body and slid his legs along the ground. Just when he was about to slide straight in Aztec's chasmal, soberly maw, Belze threw his upper body down as well, his back gliding smoothly on the grass and rocks.

Belze tucked his arms in and aimed Gungir down so he slid beneath the monster, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. As soon as he was in the middle of Aztec's stomach, Number II flipped the tip of Gungir up so the pointed end was aimed at the wolf's tender flesh.

The hide shouldn't be as thick here.

With a low grunt, Belze stabbed his weapon up, piercing the wolf's skin and muscle, creating a long gash along his abdomen. When he reached Aztec's two back legs, he yanked his spear out of the creature and threw himself back up.

Belze ran forward a few more feet, his ears perking at the agonized wails the beast let out. He spun around and held Gungir at his side again, ready for another attack. He expected the wolf to be on his heels again at any moment, and he didn't want to be caught off guard.

However, he was shocked to see that not only was Aztec not coming after him, but he seemed to be genuinely struggling with the wound Number II inflicted on him.

Did I find a weak spot? Or is it just not used to pain?

Belze watched for a few more seconds as Aztec rolled on his side and howled pathetically. Had Number II been a sympathetic man, he would have felt bad for the creature.

He looks like an overgrown puppy calling out for his pack right now.

The assassin's ears perked when he heard another familiar roar followed by impatient, angry German commands.

"Nein! Nein! Lass es, lass es!" (5)

Belze blinked in confusion as Aja flashed between him and Aztec and ran towards its downed companion. She lowered her head and pressed it against Aztec, ignoring Doctor's enraged demands.

From where Belze was standing, he couldn't tell what the panther was doing, but he could hear it purring as if to ease the wolf's pain.

Is that thing… comforting the wolf?

Doctor cursed wildly and pulled viciously at Aja's fur, trying to redirect her attention. "Halt! He's fine! He'll heal in no time, remember?!"

Belze couldn't help but find a sick humor in watching the madman desperately trying to control his creatures.

It's ironic that his beasts have more empathy than Kanzaki does. Even further proof he isn't human.

Belze watched as a familiar purplish blue color surrounded both the beasts, signaling Aztec's healing bots had gone into overdrive. It didn't surprise Number II. He knew it wasn't going to be long before the wolf healed. What surprised him was seeing Aja's body light up as well.

I've seen that Nano-girl and Heartnet do this. The panther is helping to heal the wolf.

Belze couldn't help the snicker that left his lips as Doctor growled. "What's wrong, Kanzaki? Unable to get your subordinates under control?"

Doctor glared at the number. "Achte auf deinen Ton…" (6)

Belze responded in perfect German. "Nehmen Sie Ihre Inkompetenz nicht aus mir heraus." (7)

Doctor growled and pulled violently at Aja's ears. "ATTACKE! ATTACKE!"

Aja nuzzled her nose against Aztec, then allowed her head to be pulled back by her master. With a discontented growl, she scanned Aztec as if she was making sure the wolf's breathing was steady and his wound was healing before she obeyed the orders given to her.

This is fascinating, but also terrifying to watch.

After a few more seconds of watching Aztec, Aja turned faced Belze. Her deadly, golden eyes gleam maliciously at the number as she took meticulous, slow steps towards him. As much as Number II wished he had more time to rest, he knew that was a far reached luxury.

The rest of the numbers seem to be distracted by a second wave of Shooting Stars, so it looks like I'm on my own again.

Belze noticed the Apostles' numbers had slowly been increasing and after pulling one of his subordinates aside, he learned another portal had opened to reveal more lackeys.

I don't know how Charden did it, but he recruited more people than I think Diskenth could.

Belze lifted Gungir again and aimed it at the panther, waiting for her to make the first attack. After a few more careful steps, Aja turned her slow strut into a light jog, then a full sprint.

Number II waited until the right moment, then spun his spear around once, stabbing it into the ground and throwing himself in the air. He tilted his weapon a bit so he could launch himself over the panther, his back brushing against the top of Doctor's head as he vaulted over them.

With only a few inches to spare, Belze landed on the ground behind Aja and spun around. Reacting quickly, Number II twirled his spear around the panther's thick tail, hooking the sharp end of his weapon on her bedraggled fur.

Once he knew his spear was attached, Belze yanked as hard as he could, gritting his teeth as he leaned his body back. He knew there was no way his strength would be enough to pull the creature down, but he was hoping he'd at least be able to slow her down.

And maybe get Doctor off its back!

Aja let out an annoyed growl as her lower body fell to the ground. Her hind legs bent as her rear landed on the grass, dust ballooning around her as he fell. Belze looked up when he saw movement on the creature's back and smirked.

It worked.

Kanzaki lost his grip on the panter's neck and began slipping backwards. Belze heard him curse and watched as he tried to climb back on top of Aja, shouting more commands at her.

"HOCH! HOCH!" (8)

Just as Belze was about to grab Doctor's lab coat, Aja stood back up and yanked her tail away. Number II growled and pulled his spear away just before the panther could take it with her, leaping backs to avoid the beast's tail swipe.

The assassin spun around and ran in the opposite direction of the panther, his hairs standing on end from the electrical sparks she was giving off. The air surrounding him became cooler and a bit moist which told Belze what was about to happen.

As he ran, he glanced at Aztec who was still laying on the ground. Even though he wasn't up, it was clear his Nanomachines and Tao were rapidly healing him, but he wasn't ready to attack.

I don't know how long that will last for…

Thinking quickly, Belze ran towards the wolf, hoping his new idea would work. With a high leap, Number II jumped over Aztec and landed clumsily on the other side of him. Normally a motion like that would have been easy, but he was so tired it was difficult to stand let alone jump.

I just need to get Doctor off that panther's back. If I can take him down, I'll feel as though I accomplished something in this fight.

Even though he refused to lose, even though he refused to give in and refused to accept defeat, that didn't mean he thought he'd make it out of the fight alive.

As long as I can end that wretched man's life… I'll win.

Number II kneeled on the ground behind Aztec, catching his breath as he waited to see what Aja would do. Almost as soon as he hid behind the wolf, the air changed. It became warm once again and the moisture disappeared.

Did it work?

He peeked over the downed creature and smirked.

It did.

Aja's body was flaring wildly and her eyes still held their murderous glow, but despite how ready her stance appeared, she did not do anything. Instead of attacking, she simply growled at the number, her fur standing on end as she locked eyes with Belze.

The number spoke in a loud, eminent tone. "It seems as though your creatures have more empathy than you do. Your panther won't attack if she knows it could hurt her friend."

Doctor snarled. "ATTACKE!"

Aja roared into the sky, but did not obey her master. Instead, she lowered her gaze and bared her teeth at Belze, her tail whipping violently behind her as claws dug into the ground.

Kanzaki growled and shouted the command again. "ATTACKE!"

Aja let out another deafening snarl as Doctor pulled viciously at her ears. Belze wasn't sure if it was Kanzaki's hands on her head or her inability to control her emotional state that caused the lightning bolt to crash from the sky, but he didn't care. He needed to move.

Belze leapt out from behind the wolf and rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding an electric bolt aimed at him. It landed almost at the exact spot Number II once occupied, slicing Aztec's back, leaving a nasty gash against his flesh.

Aja's piteous whimper matched the pain in Aztec's distressing howl. The panther violently shook her body, forcing Doctor to grip tightly to the beast's back. However, it seemed like the scientist did not have the strength to hold on as his body fell off Aja's back.

Kanzaki flew several feet in the air, landing with a brutal thud on the ground in front of a large tree. Aja either did not notice or did not care as she ran away from her master and towards her companion.

Belze slid his body to a stop at the new turn of events, watching as the panther ran to the mewling wolf. He turned his head to Kanzaki who was groaning on the ground, blood seeping from the back of his head, letting Number II know he landed on a rock.

And yet he's still trying to give his creature commands. She clearly cares more about that wolf than him, and I can't say I blame her.

The assassin sprung to his feet and sprinted towards the scientist. His legs were shaking from exhaustion, his chest was heaving wildy, and his vision blurred as he ran. He didn't care how much it pained him to move, he wasn't going to let the opportunity to kill the man slip away.

I have to get to him while I can.

Doctor groaned and mumbled a few more German words under his breath, clearly unaware of how quietly he was speaking. Although, even if he was screaming, chances were Aja wouldn't listen. She was too distracted by her partner.

I have to get to him.

Belze felt as though he was running the fastest he had ever run, but he knew there was no way that was true. With how long it was taking him to get to Kanzaki and how badly his legs burned, there was no way he was running at half speed let alone full speed.

I have to get to him…

He pumped his legs harder and harder, using Gungir as a crutch to keep his body moving.

Before it's too late!

After what seemed like ages, Belze finally stared down at Kanzaki's deplorable, lamenting face. His body was writhing in pain, making Number II smirk.

"...Pathetic." Belze whispered as he pulled Gungir out of the ground. "What a pathetic, cowardly, man you are."

He raised his weapon above his head, the tip of it glinting ominously against the sun. Number II kept his eyes on Kanzaki, his mind focusing on the man whose life he was about to end.

Kanzaki growled, spitting out a wad of blood before he spoke. "...You won't be long for this world, Number II. Charden will see to it."

Belze harden his glare, aware the man was trying to give his beasts time to come to his rescue. "No one's coming to save you, Doctor."

He glanced over his shoulder and noticed the creatures were snuggling one another. "...You've seen to that with your selfish, despicable behaviors. Your evil actions and your repugnant personality have guaranteed you a lonely death."

Belze looked down at the pitiful man, feeling nothing but hatred and disgust for him. "So... allow me to end your wretched life."

Doctor returned the man's glare as best he could, his vision blurred from the concussion he surely suffered when his head hit the ground. "Wir sehen uns in der Hölle…" (9)

Belze smirked. "I'm sure you will."

He gripped his weapon tighter, and spoke one last thing to the man. "Gute Nacht, Doktor." (10)

With one strong, powerful strike, Belze planted Gungir between the man's eyes, shoving it in until he felt the tip embed itself into the ground. With a firm grunt and a twist of his arms, Number II cinched the man's death as he tangled his spear into the scientist's skull.

Belze fell onto the ground, leaving his weapon where it was as Doctor's lifeless eyes stared vacantly at the sky. The assassin stared at the scientist for a few moments, making sure he was truly dead before breathing out a sigh of relief.

Number II stretched one of his legs out as he brought his other knee up to his chest so he could lean his arm on it. He rested his head against his arm, taking in several haggard breaths as he quietly celebrated.

"I did it…" Belze whispered. "I did it, Sephiria…"

Belze felt a presence behind him and knew instantly what it was. Without raising his head, the assassin smirked and readied himself for death.

"...It looks like I won't be seeing you again, but it's okay."

He raised his head and looked up at the sky, a rare, genuine smile on his face as he spoke. "It's okay because… I know you'd be proud."

Belze stretched both his legs out. "I can die knowing I made you happy…"

Number II shut his eyes and waited for Aja to strike, even leaning his head back to expose his throat to the creature. However, when he heard the beast lay down beside him, Belze opened his eyes and stared in confusion at her.

Aja shrunk so she was about the size of a regular panther and nuzzled her nose into his arm. To further his bewilderment, the panther purred quietly, her large, golden eyes shutting as she settled in next to him.

What the hell?

After a few minutes, Aztec limped next to them and curled up against him as well. It was clear his injuries had not fully healed, but he seemed to be getting better. However, that didn't stop him from mimicking his companion's actions.

With both creature's snuggling into him, Belze began to realize what was happening.

Do they see me as the new alpha? Because I killed their master?

Number II reached out a tentative hand to each of the creatures, petting their heads gently as they released peaceful sounds. He smirked, accepting the reality of the situation.

Will they take my commands? What's something Doctor might tell them to do right now if he needed help standing?

Figuring it was worth a shot, Belze spoke a German command. "Helfen." (11)

Aja was the first to respond as she slid her head under Belze's arm and helped him stand up. He tried another command. "Fahrt." (12)

Aja lowered her body and scooped Belze onto her back, being mindful of his injuries. She stood up and cooed happily, seemingly waiting for another command.

Belze spoke again. "Fliegen." (13)

Aja leapt into the air and floated in the sky. Again, Belze tried another command. "Runter." (14)

Aja landed and mewled, making Belze instinctively reach out to scratch her ear. "Gut." (15)

Am I bonding with his creature?

As he scratched Aja's ear, he reached out to pat Aztec's head as well. His ears perked when he heard the rustling of leaves and his body tensed. Aja and Aztec reacted to his stiffening muscles and they growled viciously at the unknowing individual.

When he saw who it was, Belze relaxed. Kranz, Nizer, and Beluga stepped through the trees, Nova and David following close behind with Number IX using the woman as a crutch. They looked to be in pretty bad shape, but he was relieved to see they were alive.

The numbers stopped when they saw the beasts standing with Belze, drawing their weapons as they prepared for another fight. Aja and Aztec responded as well, snarling louder as their fur stood on end.

Belze put up a hand and gave his new subordinates another command. "Stehen Sie hin." (16)

Both beasts lowered their bodies and laid on the ground, immediately becoming submissive at Belze's orders.

The numbers gave him a confused look. Each of them spoke German, so they knew what he said. However, they were unsure as to why the creatures were responding.

Belze saw their perplexed looks and answered their unasked question. "I believe I am their new master."

Nizer cocked an eyebrow. "New master?"

Belze nodded in the direction of Doctor. "Yes. New. The old one has been dealt with."

The numbers turned and looked at Kanzaki's dead body, understanding dawning over each of them. Nova, who barely ever spoke, was the next to say something.

"What are your orders?"

Belze glanced at Doctor as he continued petting the monsters. "Grab his body and throw it on the panther's back. We'll bring him to Sephiria to show her he'd been erased."

Beluga nodded and walked over to the scientist's lifeless body, yanking the spear out of his head and throwing the man over his shoulder. He walked towards Belze, giving the monsters a strange look as he handed the man back his weapon.

Number II took Gungir and patted Aja twice on the neck and the creature reacted to his unspoken command. She lowered her body and scooped the number on her back again, growing her size to support both his weight along with the weight of Doctor's body that Beluga was tossing on top of her.

Once both Belze and Doctor's body were settled, Number II spoke again. "Now... let's go join our leader in the next battle."

---

Sven cursed as a thick layer of earth shot up from the ground under his feet. Luckily, his Vision Eye was able to see the attack before it happened, so he managed to roll backwards just in time to avoid most of the damage. However, he wasn't fast enough to dodge the attack completely.

As Sven rolled away from the protruding dirt, his heel caught on the tip of the wall, causing him to trip at the last minute. The sweeper fell, grunting miserably as his upper body buckled under gravity's overbearing weight.

Sven's skull fell harshly on the ground, colliding directly with a rock.

"Shit!" He grumbled as he rolled to the side, gripping the back of his head as he squeezed his eyes shut. "Damnit, that hurt!"

"Shake it off, Sven! This is no time for a nap!"

Sven didn't need to open his eyes to know who was speaking. Even if he didn't recognize Rinslet's voice right away, the explosion that followed it was a dead giveaway. He figured she must have set off a grenade then run over to check on Sven.

When Sven opened his eyes, he saw the thief offering him her hand with a concerned look on her face. "You okay?"

Sven blinked at her for a second, confused at the legitimately sympathetic look in her eyes. "Are you genuinely worried about me? Man, I must really look like a mess right now!"

Rinslet rolled her eyes. "Just take my kindness before I decide to renege it, Old Man"

Sven sighed, grabbed the thief's hand and allowed her to help him up, even using her arm as a crutch so as not to apply pressure to his ankle.

He grunted and he looked down at his foot.

Damnit, is it broken?

"Are you okay?" The thief asked again.

Sven gritted his teeth and lied to the woman. "Yeah, I'm fine. What abo-"

Sven shot his head up as his Vision Eye played out an event that had yet to come. Without hesitation, the sweeper shoved Rinslet away from him who was immediately scooped up by Jenos. The number had swept down from a tree and wrapped his arm around the woman's waist, throwing her over his shoulder and disappearing into another tree.

Before he disappeared, Sven saw the grateful look the assassin gave him. Sven didn't have time to respond or acknowledge Jenos' thankful nod since he had to avoid a wall of daggers Watts had made appear. They stabbed into the ground Rinslet had occupied only seconds ago and sliced the air the green hair man once stood in.

As Sven leapt away from the next batch of knives thrown at him, he felt another wall of dirt rise out of the ground behind him. His Vision Eye had seen that attack coming, but he chose not to avoid it since doing that would have put him in a more deadly situation.

When Sven's shoulder crunched against the dirt wall, he felt his sleeve rip and his skin tear, creating a long jagged gash along his flesh. As the barrier continued shooting up from the ground, the sweeper felt his shoulder dislocate and he gritted his teeth in pain.

He bore the brunt of the attack since he knew dodging it would have been much worse. In fact, he leaned into the wall further to make sure he was not struck by the sheet of daggers the other Taoist was throwing in the empty space next to him.

When the first wave of knives ended, another one came immediately after it, giving Sven no time to run away from where he was. He waited for the next wave of blades to pass as he pressed his body harder against Kenneth's earth wall.

Is Watts missing on purpose or is he starting to slip?

Behind the rumbling barricade, Sven heard the old Taoist cackling wildly.

And how is Kenneth keeping the wall going? How much of the earth can he use?

Sven had learned quickly how the man's attacks worked. He could only use his Tao if he was surrounded by earth, and the ground would migrate to his attack. However, whatever he pulled from the ground would not be replaced and always left a crater.

Hence all the holes scattered throughout the forest. It's making it difficult to move.

The sweeper cursed again as he flattened his back against the wall which he could tell Kenneth was purposefully making more rough and serrated. The fact that the old man wasn't choosing to jut a sharp piece of wall out to stab him in the back led Sven to believe Kenneth was either toying with him, or leaving his fate to Watts.

My Vision Eye isn't predicting Kenneth is going to do anything to kill me either. Every fate I'm seeing thrust before me is centered around Watts, but that asshole keeps missing.

Sven cursed as he felt the flesh of his back tear along the uneven wall. He tried to turn his head to look at Watts, but was unable to see him beyond the never ending blanket of daggers.

As he scanned the area in an attempt to spot the man, he stopped when his Vision Eye caught another sight. Sven growled at what he saw and immediately began looking for an escape since staying there would not be an option very soon.

"Shit!" He muttered as he edged himself towards the end of Kenneth's wall.

Looks like Watts has just been toying with me. Like a cat with a mouse.

Sven gritted his teeth and continued sliding against the wall.

I'm not gonna make it!

Sven turned his head back in the direction he believed Watts was and did his best to glare. As he did that, he felt Kenneth thicken his wall and push him closer towards Watts' daggers. The sweeper's feet scraped against the ground as he moved closer to knives, his injured ankle feeling as though it was going to cave beneath him.

Damnit! I need to get out of here!

As Sven pressed the side of his face against the wall, the skin on his cheek sliced open as he shut his eyes and continued sliding against the wall. He did his best to ignore the pain in his ankle, but it was beginning to be too much to endure.

Just as Sven felt the first dagger slash his chest, he felt the wall behind him shatter which made him fall backwards. Sven prepared himself to collide with the earth again, but instead felt two thin arms wrap underneath his armpits and he flew into the air.

He didn't need to look up to know who had broken the wall and saved him. "Eve, be careful! Don't drop me!"

Eve rolled her eyes as she struggled to pull her guardian up higher. "I can manage your weight long enough to get you to safety, Sven."

Sven let out a sigh of relief, then blinked when he realized what the girl had said. "Was that a dig at my weight?!"

Eve smirked. "Not at all, Sven. You're at your physical peak! No need to worry."

She frowned and moved her arms up and down. "Actually… maybe you should think about going on a diet after this."

Sven hardened his glare and growled as Eve flew them behind a tree and slowly lowered them to the ground. "Says the person who cooks the meals."

Eve shrugged as she lightly set her guardian down. "Don't blame it all on me. Creed cooks too. Probably more than I do."

Sven rolled his eyes and leaned against the tree, being careful not to apply pressure to the ankle he was positive was broken. "Not as much since he and Train moved out."

Eve folded her wings back into her body, rolling one of her shoulders as she spoke. "Can't argue with that."

She took in the way Sven was standing, noticing he seemed to be favoring one of his feet over the other. "What happened to your foot?"

Sven looked down at his ankle and frowned. "I think my ankle might have broken when my heel caught on Kenneth's wall."

The Bio-girl frowned as well, taking in the rest of Sven's damaged figure. His clothes were filthy and torn, his skin bruised in numerous places and his flesh sporting a plethora of cuts and slices. Dried blood caked his pasty skin which appeared more blanched and pale than usual.

"...You don't look so good." Eve didn't mean to speak her thoughts out loud, but they slipped out before she could stop herself.

Sven gave the girl an offended look. "Thanks for that… It's not as if I didn't already feel like absolute shit."

Eve watched as the man glanced at where Nica's body was.

I shouldn't have said that.

She knelt on the ground to get a better look at Sven's ankle. It was already swelling and the skin was bruised. Using the first aid knowledge she had learned through the various books she read, Eve could tell the man was right.

"It's definitely broken. Kenneth's walls aren't to be messed with. They've nearly knocked me out of commission countless times."

Eve frowned as her guardian winced under her touch. "Don't beat yourself up over it. The only reason Rins hasn't been taken out by his walls is because Jenos is always there to save her."

Sven gave a bitter laugh. "...And I guess I have you to rescue my sorry ass."

Eve knew he didn't mean for his statement to offend her, so she didn't take it personally.

He's wrecked physically, mentally, and emotionally and it doesn't help to know the person he feels he is supposed to protect is protecting him.

Eve gave the man a kind smile. "Your ass isn't sorry, Sven, just a little beat like the rest of us."

Sven pried his forlorn eyes away from the place Nica's body rested and glanced down at Eve. "...Are you okay?"

Eve widened her smile. "I'm fine, but I have the Nanomachines to help me. If I didn't have them, I'd be just as bad off as the rest of you."

Sven gestured towards Kyoko who seemed to be picking up the torch of the fight he just left. "She seems okay."

Eve watched Kyoko turn one of Kenneth's walls into mud with her fire breath, giggling joyously as she leapt in the air to avoid a barrage of daggers from Watts. "That's also not a fair comparison. She has the Tao."

She put up a hand to stop Sven from what he was about to say. "And it's also not fair to compare yourself to Jenos or Rinslet. You know Jenos has skills none of us have ever received and he's been stuck to Rins like glue."

That knowledge did not make Sven feel better. "Kyoko's Tao isn't leveled up enough to heal serious injuries. She's done a great job considering the colossal beasts we're been up against."

Eve sighed again and lowered her head.

It's true Watts and Kenneth aren't to be underestimated.

After hearing what Train explained Kenneth's abilities were, she knew the old man was powerful. However, she was surprised at how difficult Watts was proving to take down.

I didn't think a guy who could summon daggers would be difficult to fight. His Tao must have leveled up.

The fact that his wounds seemed to heal quicker than Kyoko's or Kenneth's confirmed that. It wasn't as fast as Creed or Train's healing factor, but it was fast enough to make causing damage to him difficult.

"She is doing a great job, but so are the rest of us. Considering what we're up against and-"

"-And the fact that we didn't have you until just now makes that statement all the more true. I know all that already."

Sven winced at his own words, realizing they came out much harsher than he intended them to.

I really need to get it together. It's not Eve's fault I'm a mess right now.

The sweeper tried to give her an apologetic look. "I'm sorry… That was uncalled for. Listen, Eve…"

Sven turned his body so his back was leaning against the tree and he could look at the girl. "I understand what you're trying to do, but nothing is going to make me feel better except ending this war and putting Nica's body to rest."

He looked up at the sky. "I just want to go home with you and everyone else and get back to our normal sweeper shenanigans… without interruption from Chronos or the Apostles."

Eve smiled and gently placed her fingers around the man's ankle. "I don't think anyone in our strange little family will disagree with you on that."

She adjusted herself on the ground and looked up at Sven. "I'm going to heal your ankle. I don't have the time to fix it completely, but I can at least make it so you're able to move easier."

Sven looked back down at the girl. "Are you sure you can handle that right now?"

Despite the fact that Eve's wounds had been mostly healed, he could tell she was exhausted.

Actually, the fact that her wounds are healed means her Nanomachines have been working in overdrive and she might have a hard time using them soon.

It was no secret that Eve was strong, probably stronger than most of the people in Chronos, but she was still human with human limits. Those limits may have been more extreme than the average human, but they still existed.

The more she uses her Nanomachines, either to heal or to fight, the more exhausted she becomes. And if she reaches the point where she's too tired to use them to fight, we'll all be screwed.

Eve nodded her head and activated the Nanomachines in her hands. "Yes. I might not be able to heal the rest of your wounds, but I can at least make you more mobile."

Sven nodded as well and rested his head against the tree. "Okay, Eve. I trust you."

Eve smiled, then concentrated on healing the broken bones in the man's ankles. Both her fingers and Sven's ankle turned a light shade of blue as the cartilage in his body slowly healed.

It's taking longer than it normally does. Sven's right. I need to be careful. If I keep this up, I won't be able to use them at all much longer.

After several minutes, Eve pulled her hands away. "That should be enough. How do you feel?"

Sven rolled his ankle, wincing slightly despite the fact that the pain was less. "Better. Not one-hundred percent, but better."

Eve nodded and stood up. "Can you put weight on it?"

Sven applied a bit of pressure to it. "Yes. I think I can even run."

Eve nodded, then looked beyond the tree at the fight occurring between their comrades and the Apostles. Jenos used his gloves to cut down another one of Kenneth's walls then ran towards the man to engage him in a close ranged fight.

A few yards away from them, Rinslet and Kyoko were going toe-to-toe with Watts, who was sending an endless barrage of daggers at them. The thief was trying to catch the Taoist by surprise with her grenades and the teen continued melting Watts' daggers while they were still in the sky.

Eve smiled. "Then I suggest we join the fray again. It looks like the Taoists are at their end."

Sven turned his head to watch the fight. "Yeah, they look pretty worn out."

Not that our comrades are any better off, but at least we outnumber them. And with Eve here, I'm sure it's only a matter of time before we end this.

Sven tilted his hat. "You help Jenos with the old man, and I'll lend a hand to our lovely ladies."

Without another word, the two ran out from behind the tree and towards their friends. Eve slowed her steps slightly just in case Sven's ankle gave out and he fell, but also because the fatigue in her legs would not allow her to run at full speed.

When they were only a few feet away from Watts, Eve sprouted her wings again and flew herself in the air. She made sure she only just barely missed hitting Watts with her feet, hoping that would get the message across to the Taoist that she was a part of the fight.

It must have worked to some degree since Watts was distracted enough by her presence to be caught off guard by a wall of fire Kyoko sent at him. The Taoist cursed as he rolled to the side at the last minute, his right sleeve burning off as his skin sizzled under the heat.

As he rolled on the ground, he shook his arm to rid it of the flames attempting to consume him. Once the fire was out, he turned to face the teen, ready to throw an insult at her, but was cut off as Rinslet began firing shots at him from behind.

He grunted in pain as two bullets embedded themselves in his shoulder, the third one slicing across his cheek, and the last one missing completely. Watts looked over his shoulder and glared at the woman, once again opening his mouth to scold her only to be cut off again, but that time by a cloud of smoke billowing around him.

Knowing exactly who was behind the familiar fog, Watts turned his head in the direction he could hear Sven coming from. "Done mourning the loss of your beloved already?"

Sven opened another hole in his Attache Case. "Don't sound so broken up about the parting of your comrade!"

Watts laughed as he rolled out of the way of Sven's bullets, leaping into the air to dodge another fire blast from Kyoko before landing and darting behind a tree to shield himself from another one of Rinslet's grenades.

Just before he ducked behind the tree, he flicked his wrist and created another wall of daggers between him and the sweepers. He shoved his arms forward, then threw himself behind the tree, leaving his opponents to deal with the daggers on their own.

Kyoko reacted immediately and melted as many knives as she could, Sven and Rinslet running as fast as they could behind another tree since they had no way to stop the daggers.

Rinslet twitched as she heard the blades plant themselves in the bark. "What was that crap about mourning your beloved just now? Did something happen to Nica?"

Sven grimaced at the woman's words, realizing she didn't know what happened yet. "She's dead. Watts killed her."

Rinslet's eyes widened and she opened her mouth to speak again, but was cut off by Sven. "We don't have time to talk about it. How many grenades do you have left?"

The thief stared at the man for a moment longer, then answered. "Just one… And I hate to say it, but after this fight I'm going to have to tap out for the rest of the battle."

Sven frowned. "I know… I don't blame you." He looked down at himself, sneering at the condition he was in. "I have a feeling I'll be tapping out with you. Not that we'd be much of a match for Charden anyway."

Rinslet nodded. "My thoughts exactly. But, at least if we deal with these assholes, we can safely say we did our part in the war, right?"

Sven smiled and nodded. "Right. What kind of grenade do you have?"

She pulled out her last grenade and held it up. "Sorry to say it's just a regular one."

Sven frowned, then looked around the tree and began working out a plan. With the help of his Vision Eye, he was able to see what Watts' next steps were going to be.

Kyoko's going to do a good job holding him off, but she'll need our help soon.

He smirked when he saw what the man's next steps were going to be.

Staring at the field of craters created by Kenneth, Sven spoke. "That'll do. I have a plan. You see that giant hole in the ground over there?"

Rinslet followed the sweeper's eyes to the pit in question. "Yeah. What do you have in mind?"

Sven turned back to the thief, a smirk still on his face. "Just follow my lead and throw the grenade when I say."

Rinslet frowned. "Is your Vision Eye showing you something?"

Sven shrugged. "It's in the workings of something, but hasn't quite figured it out yet. It's working slowly."

Seeing the worried look on the woman's face, Sven rolled his eyes. "I'm tired, okay?! And we don't have the luxury of waiting to see how it plays out. We old people need to get home before it gets past our bedtime."

Rinslet's frown turned into a scowl as she punched the man's shoulder. "Are you calling me old?!"

Sven chuckled and rubbed the spot the woman hit. It hurt more than he could tell Rinslet intended it to, which he knew was due to his injuries.

We need to end this.

"Just shut up and do as I say and we'll be home drinking a hot cup of coffee before you know it. Stay here until I give the signal."

Rinslet frowned again. "How will I know what the signal is?"

Sven rolled his eyes. "You'll know it when you hear it. And when you hear it, I want you to throw that grenade as close to that hole as you can."

The thief looked at the hole again, then nodded. "Got it."

Sven waited a few more seconds, then sprinted out from behind the tree. He was still moving slower than usual, but he didn't care. If his plan worked, the fight would be over soon.

And I can lay Nica to rest.

Sven's eyes focused on Watts and Kyoko. The battle between the two was turning out to be to opposing walls of different elements which continuously canceled on another out. Every time Watts threw a sheet of daggers at Kyoko, the girl would burn them out of the sky almost as soon as they appeared.

Despite how well the young woman was holding her own, Sven could tell she was slowing down as well.

Don't worry, Kid. It'll all be over soon and you can go back to pointlessly clinging to Train.

Sven paced his steps as he used his Vision Eye to watch what Watts and Kyoko's next moves were going to be. He wanted to make sure he approached the duo at the most opportune moment. The moment he believed would be the best time to conduct his plan.

Contrived as it might be, it'll work.

He watched Kyoko stumble to the ground, a dagger embedding itself in her shoulder as she cried out in pain.

It has to!

As Kyoko rolled away from Watts' next attack, Sven skidded to a halt in front of her, holding up his case to catch the Taoist's daggers. Without hesitation, Sven flipped his case open, snapping out a large barrel that was aimed directly at Watts.

Watts growled and ran away from the attack he knew was going to come. It wasn't the first time Sven revealed that barrel, and he wanted nothing to do with it. He didn't know how the sweeper's small case could handle such a large blast, but he didn't care. The last time he was caught in it, it nearly took his left arm out.

Sven smirked as the man ran in the direction of the hole, then turned around to help Kyoko up. "Come on, get up. We can end this now, but I need your help."

Kyko blinked at Sven's hand, but allowed him to pull her up. "What do you need me to do?"

Sven gestured for her to run after Watts. "Follow him and stay as close as you can. Don't stop your attacks. No matter how tired you get or how much your lungs burn, don't stop."

Seeing the skeptical look in her eyes, Sven made his smile a bit kinder. "I promise if you do as I say, you'll be back with Train in no time."

Kyoko's face brightened and she nodded, then ran after the man. She took in a deep breath and released a large roar of fire. The girl did exactly as she was told and kept her attacks going, moving her feet as fast as she could, ignoring the exhaustive signals her muscles were sending to her brain.

Sven smiled as he watched the girl run.

She'll do anything for that damn cat.

He waited a few seconds, then turned his body to the left and ran towards a tree. Once he was there, he pressed his body against it to catch his breath, glancing towards the fight Jenos and Eve were having with Kenneth.

She's fine. I trust her to wrap things up over there.

Sven watched Kyoko chase the man closer to the hole, then looked where Rinslet was. The tree she was hiding behind was on the opposite side of the hole Kyoko was chasing Watts towards and with how quickly they were moving, Sven knew he needed to be quicker.

There's no way I'll be able to reach the hole before them, so I have to rely on my Attache Case.

Sven pushed the barrel back into his case and snapped it closed. He never intended on using the explosion gun in it again since it was only good for one shot, which he used impulsively early in the fight.

The sweeper climbed the tree he was leaning on until he reached a thick, long branch towards the top. Once there, he walked to the edge of it, kneeling down and opening a new hole in his case. It was one he installed just before the final fight.

Guess I found a use for it.

When Sven opened up the hole, an arrow peaked it's head out and the green haired man pulled the case up to his Vision Eye. He pressed the hard, cold metal against his cheek, closing his normal eye as he aimed at a tree close to the hole.

I gotta make this shot count.

He tilted his Attache Case up slightly, aiming it at a branch protruding above the hole. His goal was to snap the edge of it off so it would hopefully obscure the pit at least somewhat.

It won't be able to cover it completely, but hopefully he'll be too distracted to notice.

Sven knew if he saw it outright, Watts would be able to avoid the pit, but maybe if he attempted to cover it up, it'd be enough to throw the Taoist off.

That's the best we can hope for. I just wish my Vision Eye would tell me if this plan is going to work.

Sven ignored his anxiety and took aim at the branch. He didn't have a lot of practice with it, but he thought he'd be able to knock a branch down from a yard away.

The sweeper took a deep breath, focusing his aim on the branch, then fired. He cursed when missed, but heard the click of another arrow replacing the first one. Again, he took aim and fired, and again he missed.

"Damnit…" He muttered as the next arrow took its place.

I only have three. That's all my case can hold.

Sven took another deep breath, calmed his body, and aimed again.

This is my last shot.

As he aimed the final dagger at the tree, he could hear Nica's laughter filling his ears. He could feel her hand brushing gently against his own as she taught him his first full Spanish sentence, felt the pressure of her body against his own as they sat on the couch and enjoyed a cup of coffee together.

"You're quite the honorable man, Sven. One of a kind, in fact."

He smiled warmly as he felt the woman wrap her arms around his neck.

"Si tan solo hubiera más hombres como tú…" (17)

Sven felt a tear fall down his cheek. "Si hubiera más como yo, me sentiría menos especial…" (18)

As soon as he finished that last sentence, he let the last arrow fly. He froze as he watched it soar through the air, praying it would hit its mark. As soon as it did, he relaxed his body and leaned his head against his Attache Case.

"Thank God…"

Sven watched as the arrow collided with the branch which snapped and fell, then checked to see if Watts noticed. Seeing that the Taoist was too distracted by Kyoko's attacks, he looked at Rinslet.

Sven shouted at the thief. "NOW!"

As soon as he said that word, Rinslet leapt out from behind the tree and threw her grenade. It landed on the edge of the pit, but did not fall in.

Sven smirked.

Good aim, Rins.

He looked to Kyoko who, despite how enervated she clearly was, continued running and attacking the man. Noticing how close they were to the pit and seeing she wasn't going to stop, Sven cursed and shouted one more time, hoping the teen would understand what he meant.

"LAST ONE, KID! MAKE IT COUNT!"

Kyoko looked up and over her shoulder at the older man, then turned back to Watts. She reared her head back and opened her mouth wide, releasing one large gust of fire that burnt the atmosphere around them, taking a few leaves and twigs with it.

Watts leapt to avoid her attack, throwing himself toward what he believed was simply just a large pile of leaves. His eyes widened when he saw the giant hole beneath it, then looked up to see the grenade on the other side of it.

He cursed when the grenade exploded and threw him into the air as Kyoko's fire blast shoved him forward, then back down to the ground. Watts' ears rang as gravity forced him towards the ground, his vision blurred as he fell. He couldn't see where he was falling, but he didn't need to since he knew where he was going to land.

The branch caught on fire and fell apart just in time for Watts' body to fall into the hole it once covered. He tried to grab the edge of the pit, but the blast that happened on either side of him centered his body above the hole, making it impossible for him to reach any part of land.

When he hit the ground, he landed directly on his leg and heard the bone snap. The Taoist let out an agonized scream and he clutched his leg, biting his lower lip as he rolled in pain. He tried to crawl to the wall, but every time he moved, pain coursed through his body and forced him back down.

As he fell for the second time, Watts gritted his teeth and groaned as he laid on his back. Staring up at the sky, he snarled at the faces that peaked down at him.

Kyoko smirked and pointed at him. "Got ya!"

Watts growled. "FUCK YOU, YOU FUCKING BITCH! GET ME OUT OF HERE!"

Rinslet frowned. "Why the hell would we do that? It's much more enjoyable to watch you struggle down there than fighting us up here."

Watts growled again and threw another stream of curses at them, but stopped when he saw Sven's face beaming down at him as well. He hardened his glare and sat up on his elbows, adding more poison behind his venomous eyes as if that would end the sweeper's life.

"You son of a bitch…"

Sven smirked and tilted his hat at the man. "Just hang tight there for a second while we wrap things up with your buddy."

Sven stood up and turned to the women. "Can you keep an eye on him while I check on Eve and Jenos? If we've been able to wrap it up here, I think they might be almost done as well."

Rins nodded, but Kyoko was the one to answer. "Just leave it to Kyoko!"

Watts growled even louder and shouted at the man. "IS THAT ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY TO ME?! ARE YOU SERIOUSLY JUST GOING TO WALK AWAY?!"

Sven paused his steps, but did not turn around. He stared ahead, seeing the ghost of Nica smiling at him, mouthing three precious words before evaporating into the air.

He smiled, but did not respond to the man.

Yes. I am going to walk away from you.

Sven picked up his speed a little and began scanning the area for Eve.

There's nothing more to say to you.

"WHY DID YOU DO THAT?!"

Sven stopped when he heard Eve's voice screaming.

"HE WAS GIVING UP!"

Sven frowned. That didn't sound like something she would say to Kenneth.

Who is she yelling at? Is she yelling at Jenos?

As he continued walking, he heard another voice.

"Because it's my job. And you're smart enough to realize he was not giving up. It was a trick."

Sven could hear Eve growl, which meant he was close. However, he still didn't see them.

Did his job? Does that mean he…?

Sven frowned when he realized what Eve was probably angry at the assassin for.

If he killed Kenneth, I understand why she's mad, but she knows that's his job. He's going to try and kill Watts as well.

Sven could hear Eve childishly stomp her foot. "He was giving up! That was the look of a defeated man!"

The sweeper could tell the voices were coming from his left, so he turned and began jogging in that direction. After a few minutes, he saw Eve and Jenos standing on either side of Kenneth's lifeless body.

Damn, I was right… Sometimes I hate it when I'm right.

Jenos sighed and kneeled on the ground, turning Kenneth's clench hand over and uncurling his fingers. He frowned as a grenade fell out and picked it up to show Eve.

Number VII made sure his voice was gentle as he spoke. "He wasn't giving up. It was a trap to lure us closer. He knew he couldn't win, so he was going to take us both down with him."

Eve blinked a few times at the bomb, then clenched her fists. "...You still didn't have to kill him."

Jenos narrowed his eyes at the girl, the kindness beginning to leave his voice. "I just saved your life, Kid! Show a little gratitude!"

Eve's arms were beginning to shake as screamed at him. "I CAN TAKE CARE OF MYSELF!"

"Eve…" Sven spoke quietly. "...I understand how you're feeling, but I… agree with Jenos."

Eve turned her angry eyes to Sven, tears swelling in them as she spoke. "...What?"

Sven limped over to the girl. "If the choice was between him and you, I choose you every time."

As Sven approached, he kneeled on the ground, groaning as he leaned on his knee.

Seeing another tear fall from Eve's eye, Sven reached out to wipe it away. "I know you may not like the outcome, but I can forgive Jenos if his reasoning behind ending Kenneth's life was to save yours."

Eve gave the sweeper a stubborn look. "It's not okay to kill someone…"

"You can say that all you want, but keep in mind the only reason you're able to say it is because of me." Jenos leaned over the dead Taoist and closed his eyelids shut.

He stood up and addressed Sven. "Where's Rins?"

Sven gestured in the direction of the thief. "A few yards that way with Kyoko. We caught Watts."

Jenos narrowed his eyes. "And you didn't kill that monster?"

Sven rolled his eyes. "No. That's not how we handle things. And I have a feeling if you try, Rins will have something to say about it."

Jenos frowned, then walked away.

Sven watched him walk away, then turned back to Eve. "Eve… I know it's hard, but you have to understand why Jenos did what he did."

Eve turned to Kenneth's body. "...Would you have done it?"

Sven turned his head towards the dead man as well, hesitating as he spoke, since he wasn't sure how to answer. "I… I can't say for sure I wouldn't have done it by accident… if it meant saving your life."

Eve turned a shocked look to Sven. She opened her mouth to scold the green haired man, but stopped when she saw the tears in his eyes. Her heart was broken for the thousandth time that day as she saw the look of utter despair paint itself across Sven's face.

Sven choked back a sob as he tried to look strong. "I've… already lost too much today, Eve. I can't lose anyone else… Especially not you."

Eve locked eyes with Sven, then turned back to Kenneth. "You know what his last words were?"

Feeling Sven's eyes give her a curious look, Eve sighed. "He said, 'I always knew my life would end this way… at the hands of Chronos…'"

She paused and looked at the ground. "Then he said, '...I just wish I could have taken a few more down with me.' Then he cackled like the mad man he was."

Sven frowned at the girl's sullen face. "I think that's the most coherent thing he's ever said."

Eve nodded. "There was a strange sort of calm sensibility that took over in his last moments…" She reached out a hand and patted Sven's head. "…I guess I can forgive Jenos."

Sven smiled, then slowly stood up. Seeing the man struggle, Eve reached out and to help, using her arm as a crutch for him to lean on. She thought about actually turning it into a crutch, but she could tell her Nanomachines were reaching their limits, and she wanted to save whatever she could in case someone else showed up.

Eve wrapped Sven's arm around her shoulders. "Let's go check on the others."

Sven sighed. "Only for a minute. Then there's something I need to take care of."

Eve didn't need to ask. She knew what he meant.

When they reached their comrades, they could hear Rinslet yelling at Jenos, who was clearly trying to end the trapped Taoist's life.

"Can't Chronos just take him prisoner? Why do you have to be the one to kill him?"

Jenos sighed and rubbed his eyes. "If I bring him back to Chronos, they'll just order me to kill him, or Sephiria will kill him herself to protect me from the Elder's wrath."

Rinslet narrowed her eyes. "...Have I ever told you how much I hate your job?"

Jenos peeked at the woman between his fingers. "Only hundreds of times..."

"WOULD YOU TWO QUIT FUCKING AROUND AND GET ME OUT OF HERE?!"

Kyoko leaned over the hole and frowned at the Taoist. "Shush! The adults are talking!"

Sven and Eve could hear Watts launch more curses at them, which Kyoko laughed at.

Eve felt Sven stop, and stopped herself. "Sven?"

Sven stared at the hole in the ground, then pulled his arm away from Eve. "Take care of this, okay? I need to go be with Nica."

Eve watched Sven walk away, then turned to her comrades.

Okay, Sven... I'll wrap things up here so you can wrap things up over there.

Sven's feet dragged against the ground and his muscles twitched from pain, but nevertheless, he continued putting one leg in front of the other.

Nica… Hold on, I'm coming…

He gritted his teeth as pain throbbed through his body, blanketing his figure in excruciating misery, the physical and emotional agony piercing his heart.

I won't leave you alone… Not again. Not ever again.

He could see the pile of leaves he hid the woman beneath, his skin going cold when he saw the porcelain fingers that peeked out. Even from the distance he was at, he could tell her skin had gotten paler.

Nica… I'm so sorry…

It felt like an eternity had passed until he reached the woman, but at the same time it felt like it only took a few seconds. Time seemed irrelevant as he approached Nica's body, the world around him fading into darkness, leaving only him and his deceased lover.

"Nica…" Sven whispered as he finally reached the woman. "Nica… Nica, I'm here…"

He brushed the leaves off her face, revealing the white skin and inert expression. It was clear life had fully departed from her, even if Sven didn't want to admit it.

Sven felt a tear fall as he smiled at the woman who had departed the planet. "We did it, Nica."

He cupped her cheek and pressed their foreheads together. "We won. We beat them."

The sweeper let out a shaky sigh as another tear fell. "The war's not over yet, but… I think I'm done. At least for now."

Sven meant what he said to Rinslet. He was retiring from the fight.

He shut his eyes. "I'll be with them in spirit, but my body can't keep moving."

Sven pulled away from her and sat on the ground next to Nica. He leaned back on his hands, wincing at the pain. His muscles ached and his bones shriveled under his own weight. Every part of his body begged for a long rest, which he was more than happy to grant.

He chuckled. "I actually might not have a choice. I feel like collapsing just thinking about standing up let alone fighting."

Sven lowered his eyes back to Nica, aware she was not going to respond to anything he was saying. He didn't care. It felt good to talk to her.

Even if I'll never hear her voice again…

The sweeper groaned as he stood up, steadying himself for a moment before limping a few feet away from Nica. He fell back to the ground, landing on his knees as he began clawing at the ground.

"It won't be pretty, sure I'll make sure you have a grave." He continued ripping at the grass and dirt, his arms quivering as he tore at the earth. "I'm sorry, but you might be waiting for a bit."

He groaned and winced in pain as he mangled the ground beneath him, determined to fulfill his promise to Nica. "I'll take care of you… I won't leave you alone."

Not again…

Sven wasn't sure how long he had been digging when his ears perked at footsteps approaching from behind. He didn't have a moment to question who it was when a shovel stabbed into the dirt next to him and began digging as well.

"Let me help." Eve said quietly as he threw a pile of dirt over her shoulder.

Sven sighed and sat back. "You shouldn't be wasting your energy on this. The war isn't over."

Eve shrugged. "I'll be fine. I'll take a break after this. Rinslet says she's tapping out of the fight. She's going to wait here with Jenos."

Sven knew Rinslet was dropping out, but he was shocked to hear Jenos was staying back. "Why is he staying here?"

Eve sighed. "He said he doesn't want to leave Rinslet and Watts alone. Even though I knocked him out, he doesn't feel safe. He said he'll wait here until Sephiria comes back and 'deals with it,' as he put it."

Sven frowned and looked at Nica. "I think we all know what that means…"

Eve chose to ignore his statement. "Kyoko and I are going to take a minute to let our wounds heal before we move forward. I'm sure we can find the others."

Sven realized Eve believed he was going to go with them, and frowned. "I'm… I'm going to stay with Nica. I… Don't think I can fight anymore anyway."

Eve glanced at the man. She opened her mouth to protest, then shut it quickly when she realized she didn't want to talk him out of his decision. "I think that's a wise decision. You can keep an eye on Watts as well. Make sure Jenos doesn't kill him."

Sven smiled, aware she was using Watts as an excuse for him to stay behind. "How long do you think he'll be out for?"

Eve smirked as she dug up the last of the dirt. "Quite a while. I hit him pretty hard." She turned her arm back to normal and looked at Sven. "I was just so sick of hearing him bitch and moan."

Sven frowned as he stood up. "Watch your language!"

Eve chuckled as she watched Sven walk to Nica, prepared to help the man, but quickly realizing she shouldn't. No matter how much pain he was in, no matter how much his body wanted to give up, she knew Sven would refuse her help. He wanted to bury the woman himself.

The Bio-girl looked back to their comrades. "I'm going to see how they're doing. I'm assuming you'll be okay?"

Sven grunted as he lifted Nica. "Yeah, I'll be fine."

As he pulled the woman up, he said one last thing to Eve. "...Thank you, Eve."

Eve smiled at him, then walked away.

It was nearly impossible for Sven to drag the petite woman to her grave, but somehow the sweeper managed. He even managed to lightly lay her in the grave instead of unceremoniously dropping her.

Once she was laying in the shallow grave, Sven brushed the dirt off her body and cleaned the mud from her face. He did the best he could to brush her hair with his fingers, making sure she looked her absolute best.

"You always went out of your way to look good..."

Sven's fingers lingered on her cheek for a moment, then he leaned forward and lightly kissed her lips. Again, he lingered, another tear falling down his face as he gave Nica one last kiss.

I'll never hear her voice again… I'll never hear her laugh again… I'll never taste her lips or feel her warmth against my body…

He squeezed his eyes shut and shook his head, finally pulling away from the woman. "This is it… This is goodbye… Forever."

When Nica first left them, deep down, Sven always prayed she would return. He prayed that what they had was real and she'd abandon the Apostles and return to his embrace. Night after night, he dreamed that they would be reunited, but each morning he woke up and was reminded of the reality that had become his life.

"At least I got to see you again…" Sven whispered as he cupped the woman's cheek. "At least I got to say goodbye this time..."

He stood and gave Nica one last longing look, then one last kiss on the forehead before he stepped out of the small grave. Using whatever strength he had left, Sven pushed the dirt Eve had unearthed on top of the hole, covering everything except the woman's head.

Sven froze as he stared at Nica's paralyzed face, his heart slowly accepting she was beret of life, wholly actualizing that she was really gone. That he would never see her again.

"Nica…" Sven whispered as he slowly poured the rest of the dirt on her elegant, lifeless face. "I love you…"

As he pushed the last bit of dirt on her, Sven let out one last sob, his eyes locked on her until she was completely covered by the dirt. His heart was ripped to shreds and his soul was empty, but an odd peace took over at the knowledge he had been permitted to set her body to rest.

Sven rested his head on the woman's grave, his hands sitting on the spot he knew Nica's face was. He let out a slow, painful breath, raised his head and took his hat off. He set it at the top of Nica's grave as another tear fell.

"Goodbye, Nica…"

As he spoke those last words, he laid on the ground next to the deceased woman, one hand resting on her grave as he shut his eyes. One last tear fell as he drifted off into his own peaceful world. A world where he could live with Nica. A world where she was still alive.

A world where he did not want for anything, because he had everything.

---

Translation:

1. "Flash!"

2. "Come!"

3. "Shrink!"

4. "Bolt!"

5. "No! No! Leave it, leave it!"

6. "Watch your tone…"

7. "Don't take your incompetence out of me."

8. "Up! Up!"

9. "I'll see you in Hell…"

10. "Good night, Doctor."

11. "Assist."

12. "Ride."

13. "Fly."

14. "Down."

15. "Good."

16. "Stand down."

17. "If only there were more men like you…"

18. "If there were more like me, I'd feel less special…"