~Remember I don't own Escaflowne or its characters!~
~Okay here's the new chapter. Hope you enjoy it. This is where the action sets in!~
~Here's a really long chapter for you to enjoy! I got worked up in typing it that I didn't even noticed how long it was getting!!!!~
~Always remember to review after you read!!!!~
The Fate of Two Worlds: The Sequel
By Angel_Wings
Chapter 3 ~ Arise
~~~Hell~~~
It was the realm in which all the immortal souls of the wicked were tortured for eternity and the demon king reigned on his black throne. The place was a cavern of black and red scorched stone. Spikes of rocks jutted out in all directions stabbing the hot air. It was were souls were tossed into a lake of burning flames and torched the bodies of the forsaken. Screams and pleas tore from uncountable beings begging for mercy which could never be granted. Their cries echoed through the vastness of shadows and evil. Hissing steam escaped from the rock walls growling as it flooded the vast area hiding away the features of the victims held there. The stench of rotting flesh and pouring blood filled the nostrils of the ruler of this realm and bones of mortals were grinded in his hands. Not a single blade of vegetation grew here, but even if it did it would have been scorched by the extreme heat…. Oh, the absolute gruesome distinction of the place was anything, but pleasant…. No words could ever truly describe the supreme terror and vile attitude of the realm for it was nothing experienced by any mortal. It was something that only lingered in the darkest of nightmares….
Yellow tongues of the fires brighten the endless cavern and allowed the demons of darkness to be highlighted in its radiance. Among those demons was a particular soul that had escaped from the fires and had crawled out of the tortures longing for revenge…. revenge on all who had brought him to his knees,…. but he was too weak…. Yes, he had powers, but limited…. Akuma, the King of Demons, could easily stop his escape back into the mortal realm and then he would see far worse tortures than he had ever encountered in his time here…. Perhaps that was something that had held this soul back years ago, but time allowed him to devise a plan…. After several years of lurking in the corners of Hell narrowly escaping the demons and the Lord of Darkness he had finally discovered what he needed to do….
Slowly this unknown soul silently crept through the shadows towards the large throne that held the ruler. The darkness and shadows hid the man's features making it impossible for the being's identity to be recognize. With intense eyes shrouded by darkness the wicked soul watched Akuma laugh in his throne with his demons nearby. The Demon King was no larger than nine feet and had skin as red as blood with black scales running over his body in patches. A cape of emptiness hug from his shoulders matching the black pair of horns that protruded from his skull. His teeth were as sharp as knives and his tongue was quick and twisted. Eyes like fire were sparked with embers of hate and darkness. His feet were like dragon's hind claws and dug into the ground tearing up the scorched earth. Red hands were like claws and human palms formed together. A long red tail with an arrow head tip swayed back and forth demonically enjoying the tortures that surrounded him. Black pants torn in several places pulled at his muscular legs showing off his power. He was horrid….
This dark being sat upon a black throne that was made of stone and very crude. It did seem suitable for a king, but because this was the King of Demons it suit him just fine. In one of his red palms was an apple red and ebony black metal trident that gleamed in the glow of burning souls. Small black forms shuffled at this monster's feet as the ruler's servants. They were demons. Their forms were pitch black and strong as steel. Dragon-like wings fell from their backs and tails with arrow head tips hissed as they withered on the ground like injured snakes. Red coals were their eyes and burned with hatred for the living. They were much like gargoyles except they were far more intelligent and they were stronger, faster, immortal, and eviler by ten folds. Though they were powerful they weren't nearly as strong as Akuma. He was the most powerful being in Hell and had the same powers Joutei did except the King of the Universe was stronger than Akuma. How much?…. No one was truly sure…. The two immortals had not faced off in over two billion years and were obviously making no move to attack one another so the mystery between difference in power was to stay a mystery….
However that does not matter at the moment of suspense for the being prowling in the darkness has decided it is time…. time to start what he has waited nearly half a decade to do…. to have revenge….
With a cry that was like a banshee and warrior rolled into one this being flung himself from the darkness straight at the king. The demons were startled by this outburst. Never before had anyone ever dared in a millennium to attack the platform that held the Demon King. It was suicide! No one could get pass the guards and servants that surrounded the dark monster lounging on the black chair of granite, yet this foolish soul dared to try?! For several moments the lower demons gaped at the being in shock letting him get past the first row of guards. Akuma barely acknowledged the intruder by just staring at him racing towards his throne waiting for his guards to handle the mere soul. It was when the man had made it to the other side of the demon wall did the servants finally attack.
Roaring in rage the shadow guards lunged at the being and thought the soul would flee in terror, but to their surprise he turned around and faced them. Angrily the nearest demon flew at him with wings outstretched and claws ready, but unfortunately his weapons were no help to him. The man threw his hand upward catching the guard by the throat. The lower class immortal would have used his claws against his victim if he had not been held back by some unknown force. A red sphere glowed around the beast and escapee as Akuma and his guards watched curiously. The demon held by throat slumped against his captor's hold as his powers were sucked out of him. The Demon King rose from his chair in surprise causing his black outfit to rustle in the heated air. Growling Akuma realized this soul was different than the other's he held in his torturous dwellings. This being had powers….
Once the red sphere faded away the guards' red coaled eyes grew wide at what they saw. Their fellow demon guard had shriveled up into a hollow shell. Leathery flesh clung to the immortal bones and red eyes embedded in the demon's skull had grown very dull. The dark wings that protruded from the victim's back were nothing except shriveled up skin clinging to thin bone and cartilage. His tail was now twisted in a gruesome display and the horror of it all was that the demon was still alive, but now his immortality had been stolen from him…. The demon was a mortal now…. No one could do that…. Could they?…. If so this being was a huge threat to any immortal….
Laughing venomously the escaped soul tossed the body of his attacker to the crowd of guards and smirked beneath his dark hood. Growling with force two leathery wings flew up from beneath the black cloth startling the guards. The escaped soul stared victoriously at his new wings. He didn't think the deadly technique would work so perfectly.
He had learned it while being tortured in the lake of fire. His eyes had watched time and time again Akuma steal away the souls of the dead mortals and thus through his tortures was able to create his own technique. This attack allowed him to steal other beings powers. It took only a few moments for the transfer to be complete at least depending on the amount of power being absorbed into his body. After performing the technique on other tortured souls and draining their energy he began to realize of the possibilities he held. At first the technique was just to lessen the pain and anguish of his tortures, but soon he realized he could do so much more. When the thought of escaped filled his mind he began to plunge into the stress of working towards that goal. He had to perfect the attack so he might catch Akuma off guard and escape the bellows of Hell. Never did he guess that he could make immortals become mortals! That was a surprising bonus…. The real interesting thing about the attack was that he took on a physical aspect from his victims…. Well at least the powerful ones…. He had done the attack on several other souls before taking on this demon in particular…. Perhaps it was a difference in power levels…. What did it matter?…. He had all he needed to finish his dark revenge…. and soon his hands would hold the life of the being who had destroyed him….
Without waiting another moment for the demons to regroup the man lunged at the Demon King. Unfortunately Akuma was preoccupied with staring at his loyal guard in shock and did not see the attack until it was too late. With a cry the man placed both of his tan hands on the red beast's cheeks and began his work. A red light began to glow and the first stages of the transfer began….
~~~Heaven~~~
The ground began to quake and the clouds began to disperse. Angels everywhere began to call out to their god desperate to know what was going on. Golden brick roads began to crack and the crystal sea that was always placid and still now roared and crashed against the land Hundreds of souls raced to the center of the realm crying out names all the while. Upon arriving at the golden throne the angel people could see a fiery man of burning gold light rising from his golden chair and stare out into space. The land of Heaven hissed as the realm shook violently sending several people to their knees, yet Joutei stood still.
It was happening…. He knew it was time to start his plan…. He had known this day was coming and he had been well prepared for it…. With a deep voice that echoed to the far reaches of space Joutei called, "My guardian angels go to the golden gates for today the 'War of Immortals' begins!"
Responding to the command the endless crowd of people took to the air and soared with pearly wings to the golden gates that stood on what might be called the edge of the vastness. Watching his children do his demand he felt his immortal heart grow warm for their loyalty. They loved him so much,…. but for the moment that was irrelevant…. What mattered was to ready himself for the beginning, for he was to place everything in the hands of mortal who he had trusted once before…. This time though it would be different…. This time he would not be able to help her….
Lifting his golden arms of light to the blue sky Joutei called out, "My seven guardians, come to me! For the time has come for you to give me your aid!"
~~~Lands East of Fanelia~~~
Did she hear right?…. Had that been the voice she thought it was?…. Sian stared at the blue sky remembering the voice that had just echoed in the depths of her mind moments ago. Could it have been?…. If that was who she thought it was then that meant something important would shortly occur….
Beside the forest guardian stood Sukai still staring towards the sky. She had been deaf to the voice of Joutei and was not aware of this turn of events. Along with Rei and Celena Sukai had no idea what was to come. Sian lifted her head to the heavens letting her bangs rise and fall in the breeze. Closing her silver eyes the warrior whispered, "I come to you, Joutei…."
Upon hearing that phrase Sukai snapped her head at her comrade that stood a few feet away and gaped. Fear pulled at her immortal soul as she realized there was extreme danger in the air. The guardian rarely spoke that name since she knew so much, but what scared her was the phrase. It sounded as if the guardian's time was over and was to return to heaven like she had once told Hitomi she would. Glancing towards Celena and her husband Sukai realized they too had heard the fragile words and both were frowning in confusion. Turning back to the brunette warrior the royal angel urgently asked, "Sian, what's going on?!--"
There wasn't a second for the guardian angel to respond for in the blink of an eye a green glowing sphere formed around the woman shocking the three friends. With each moment the light grew intensity catching the attention of nearby villagers. Cries of alarm filled the air as the Draconian people were frighten by their guardian's sudden actions. Sian kept her eyes closed and her braid lifted into the air fluttering like a cloth hung out to dry. Her green outfit flapped against her skin as the golden tiara on her brow glowed beautifully. To be more precise the emblem of the angel surrounded by swirling lines began to radiate a yellowish glow before turning to a pale green. A star formed at the warrior's forehead right over the angel crest and soon the sphere brightened. Thousands of emerald stars smaller than the first began to flow over the woman and slowly the lady began to fade away from existence. In a matter of seconds you could see right through the guardian with only her outline barely visible to signify where she stood. Before one knew it the warrior became a lone forest green star surrounded by the pale sphere with miniature sea green orbs raining down from her center. Like a comet the warrior's star shot off into the blue sky with its tiny green dust-like stars trailing behind it.
~~~Gaea~~~
As this single star soared like a bullet to the outreaches of the atmosphere four other similar miniature comets flew towards the sky. Each were different colors, but were shaped the same with a glowing sphere and tiny droplets showering down from a center star. The five colors were beautiful together and they each came from a different direction meeting up in a circle as the flew together towards the heavens.
The first star was green and came from the eastern hemisphere. From the western hemisphere came an orange-yellow star while a cream one came from the south. A sparkling summer blue came from the northern hemisphere just as a purple star came directly from the center of all four hemispheres. Together those five twirled together in a glorious display dotting the sky with their greatness. Suddenly the burning orbs of diverse colors faded away and disappeared to an unknown destination.
However moments after the five disappeared a sixth star appeared from thin air. This one was a vibrant red and floated from some unknown region. Since no one had seen it escape from its origins no one could tell where it came from…. so it is yet another mystery in itself…. But wait! Weren't there seven guardians?…. If so why did we see only six stars?….
~~~Heaven~~~
Joutei watched the seven stars surrounded by glowing spheres appear before him. The seventh star seemed special. For it did not come from the planet below, but floated from the darkness outside the golden gate. The star had just squeezing through the metal bars and entered the glorious realm. This one was a pale silver and shined proudly next to its fellow guardians.
Shortly after taking positions in front of the King of kings the stars floated close to the ground, letting themselves hover only a few feet above the golden bricks that formed the road beneath them. The yellow pavement gleamed at the light from the stars as if to welcome the temporary souls. Joutei smiled fondly at his warriors and began, "Welcome, my chosen ones. As you have been told the day has come for you to be allowed to leave your borders and travel across many lands."
Automatically several voices call out. An unknown female voice graciously called, "Thank you, my Lord. I am most grateful!"
A rich baritone voice of a man cried, "Aye, we welcome your decision with open arms."
Quickly the god lifted his glowing palms towards his guardians and said, "Peace. We have little time. Do you not remember the suffering to come with this day?"
A new voice, a male, called out and to our ears he seemed vaguely familiar, "Yes…. Once we emerge anew, as mortals, the eight demons will appear…."
Sian's voice continued, "And with their arrival the Children of Angels will be in danger…."
The woman who had first spoken at the beginning of this meeting proclaimed, "Because of this a war will once again break out over Gaea…."
A fifth voice quickly entered in the conversation as well, "Sadly, the 'Angel' will once again be forced into the destruction…. Lives will be lost…."
At last the sixth voice was allowed to say something, "My Lord, will Gaea never find peace?…. Will the 'Angel' forever suffer?…."
Sighing heavily the god replied wisely, "I cannot say for destiny is only a path given as a choice…. and if a different path is chosen the future can change drastically…. I must not speak for the future is not written…."
Looking with pride at his seven warriors chosen by him and his children he proclaimed, "Go! The hour grows near for when I am to face the darkness. I am the only one who knows the true outcome. Go, and protect the people of your lands! The darkness will come after you once I am dealt with. Find the Queen of Angels and protect her! She is the eighth guardian of Gaea meant to be the final protection for the present. She is the one I have chosen! Go, the time awaits you and the devil falls! Soon the gates of Heaven will crash down and she will be the only hope!"
The last guardian, the wisest of the seven, speaks, "But, my Lord, can you not defeat--?"
"GO!" roared the golden fire being as his final command, "Listen to your King and GO!"
Hissing with power the seven stars glowed brightly than ever before and disappeared to their lands. Each one knew their time was short and they had to retreat from their prosperous dwellings for soon a darkness greater than they had ever seen would appear and try to swallow them up….
~~~Hell~~~
As the transfer continued the dark demon of red skin and black scales began to shrink from power. With each passing moment the black scales that dotted over the devil's skin began to fade away. If one would have been paying attention they would have noticed the escapee's hands started to be covered with the gruesome attributes. One of his humane hands began to bulge and form a black dragon-like claw. Each moment the being became more and more like the demon he held in captivity except his skin had yet to turn the deep scarlet.
Akuma struggled desperately against his holder. He was immortal!!!!! How could this have happened!!!! No mortal could do this to the King of Demons!!!!! Impossible!!!! No matter how much Akuma protested to the possibility of the situation occurring nothing changed. The unknown being continued to drain the red demon of ever ounce of power he could have. Unfortunately with the transfer occurring the red demon was made immobilized and could barely move, but he was determined not to be beaten by a mere mortal! With what was left of his powers Akuma lashed out at his captive of Hell and was able to escape the grasp on his face. Falling to his knees the Demon King gasped for air while his attacker stumbled back by the blow of power.
Akuma's body was shrunken by a few inches, but since the transfer was not complete the red beast had kept most of his muscles intact. Unfortunately the lack of power was new to the immortal and he became extremely weak. In fact he could barely rise from his position let alone attack his disobeying victim. The red sphere that had once glowed brightly fell away and left the two beings standing awkwardly in the confines of Hell.
The hooded man laughed menacingly as his hands glowed a soft red for several minutes before fading into their regular color. The dark prisoner glanced around at the guards wondering if they would attack. It didn't take him to long to see that the guards were terrified of him. Whoever could bring the Demon King to his knees had to be incredible powerful…. Laughing the man growled, "No, one needs only to outwit the stupid beast! After that it take, but a few things to drain energy. If Akuma had been wiser he would have known I had escaped, but his blind arrogance caused him to miss my absence. Thus I was able to take hold of life again! With this day my reign of death will pour forth! I am no longer a mere mortal! I AM A GOD!!!!!!!"
Bringing his hands towards the scorched ceiling of stone the man's hands began to glow red once more. The cavern began to quake and dust began to fall from above. Demons were knocked off their feet from the violent quakes and some even fell into the nearby burning lake. Akuma lifted his tired eyes to the unknown being with rage burning in his red coals.
Shouting loudly from the surge of power the man lifted his head to the ceiling causing his hood to fall away revealing his face. The light from the golden flames that danced over the lake washed over his face. The man had short brown hair that was matted to his brow from the scorching heat. A thin beard had begun to grow on his face and eyes of chocolate that sizzled with death were lodged in his skull. The only thing that deformed his previous physical characteristics though were the blacks scales that ran over half his body. The dark patches washed over half of the man's face running over his left cheek and part of his forehead. A claw where a hand should have been was gleaming in the fires' light. Leathery wings were outstretched as if to show off his new toys. No more could be distinguished beneath his pitch black garments, but if one could have looked beyond the outfit they would have seen that his chest was covered in ebony patches and his back was soaked in their dark forms especially where his new wings poked out of his flesh. His legs were swirls of darkness fighting against tan skin and now his right foot was a hind claw. It was an ugly transformation….
Akuma's burning coals grew wide in surprise as he realized who had brought him to his knees. With a startle gasp the demon proclaimed, "Issac!"
Smirking the man looked down at the Demon King who he had defeated easily, "No, Akuma! I am no longer called by that name…. My new name…. is Donkirk!"
The red illumination grew in intensity and Hell grew more violent. Steam hissed as walls cracked. Spikes shattered as they crashed to the floor. Without warning a part of the wall fell away and revealed a dark void. On seeing it Akuma realized what was to come and clung to his throne desperately. Dornkirk noticed the demon's fear and quickly began his work.
Suddenly the opening roared with life and the void, like space, tried to suck everyone and everything into its depths. Souls and demons were easily pulled in while rocks and dust floated with them. Cries of protest and painful screams filled the hot air as Hell began to be torn apart. Akuma's dark throne began to break away and be taken up with the lot, but the King of the Underworld continued to hold on for his dear immortal life. Dornkirk was untouched by this hurricane suction by his use of his powers and stayed rooted to the floor. Growling at the waist of time Akuma was taking the old man of many rotations increased the strength of his power and caused the void to pull on the demon more forcefully. With his lack of strength Akuma could not hold on. To his dismay the King of Darkness was torn from the remains of his throne and pulled through the opening as the final bit of Hell.
Laughing as his plan began to unfold Donkirk sealed the opening leaving it closed on this end of void. With this seal the red light faded from existence leaving nothing, but memories behind. There were three entryways into this unknown darkness and he had sealed the passage connect with Hell. The other two ways led to the mortal realm and Heaven. With barely a sweep of his hand the former Zaibach Emperor sealed the doorway of the mortal realm. All that was left was the gateway of Heaven and that would come in time….
Turning to the lake of fire the dark man's robe whirled in the air. Seven dark forms were left in the sea of fire and smirking the hateful man knew each one. Growling the man cried, "Arise, my warriors. Today I have overthrown Hell!"
Turning with his back to his seven chosen ones the man glared at nothing in particular. His fists were clenched at his side and his teeth grinded together. With a voice dripping in rage the man roared, "Now let us take hold of Heaven!!!!"
~~~Heaven~~~
The gates of Heaven clang as the eight hooded beings desperately tried to open the double doors. Strong hands pulled at the metal and roared at being held back by a mere door. Struggling with the gold between their fingers the dark ones hissed out curses to all who were earshot. A crowd of angels stood ready for the battle with glowing swords ready. Each blessed soul was dressed in white garments that glowed brightly while their weapons were flames of gold. The angels' eyes glared hard at their opponents knowing soon the gates would fall like the walls of Jericho, but this time it would be by Akuma's hands and not Joutei's. None of the snowy army knew much about their opponents except they held the power of Akuma in their hands. Because of this they were strong…. They were much stronger than anyone there except Joutei…. So they would be triumphed…. Right?….
Joutei towered over his people waiting for the gates to give in. The ancient being of burning light watched the dark souls again and again ram themselves against the hard metal making the bars bend. Soon the gates would open…. and the battle would ensue…. The golden immortal was the only being that knew of the outcome…. and so he had planned for this…. His goals were already laid out…. He only needed to put them to action….
He had little time left…. Lifting his hands to the sky Joutei closed his eyes. A sphere of gold sizzled around the immortal showing his awesome power. His angels did not know what their God was doing, but they could feel his power. It swelled around them sending the winds into an uproar. Clenching their teeth together the angels forced themselves to watch their enemy for they could not afford to take their eyes off them. Breathing deeply the powerful golden form called out to the last hope for Gaea, "Hitomi…."
~~~Fanelia~~~
Hitomi plucked a bushel of ripe berries from a nearby bush that was three feet taller then herself. The small fruity orbs were a deep blue and looked a lot like blueberries, but tastes far better than any known berry the seeress had ever tasted. The pregnant woman tossed one of the morsel into her mouth as she glanced around the glass house. The building was one of many that held Fanelia's crops in storage. Inside this particular one they were rows upon rows of lulu berries which were being picked by dozens of female servants. The odd name of the berry did nothing for its odd look. For though the berries where rather normal looking (in Hitomi's terms) the bushes were anything, but normal. The hedges were made up of white leaves that were dotted with the blue crop. The bark was a light gray that brought unknown beauty to the forestry. What splendor….
It was when the berry's juices had burst with flavor over Hitomi's tongue did the seeress finally return to listening to the voice nearby. Turning around the young royal asked, "I'm sorry, but what did you say, Yukari?"
A young woman in child stood nearby in a pale rose dress that held no sleeves. Next to her was Merle who held a small container. While the two friends were talking the young cat had gone to picking some of the delicate fruit to keep later as a snack. The new woman threw back her head to relieve herself of her red bangs and say, "Hitomi Kazanki Fanel! You must stop daydreaming and listen to me!"
The 'Angel' merely laughed lightly and said, "I'm very sorry, Yukari. It's just that I have things on my mind…."
A far off look came to the pale face of the woman from the Mystic Moon. Her emerald eyes slid upwards to the blue vastness staring at the lonely place her former world had held its glory. The sadness from its destruction had been buried for some time, but every so often when Hitomi felt her mind wandering from her royal duties she often would find herself staring at that patch of sky that no longer held the lush planet of green and blue. Though her people were saved and they were living happily so much pain had been experienced in the ordeal that Hitomi almost wished it hadn't occurred.
"Hitomi?…." the quiet voice of her best friend reached the angel's ears and the royal turned to her comrade as Yukari asked, "What is it?…."
Shaking her head from the prior thoughts of her home world the seeress murmured, "Nothing…."
Merle stole a glance at both girls before deciding to remain silent and continue with her harvest of lulu berries. However Yukari wasn't about to let the matter drop. Frowning the red head placed herself in front of her dearest friend and glared at Hitomi with sparks in her eyes. With a calm, but firm voice the expecting mother said, "Hitomi…. I have known you since the beginning of high school and we have never held back secrets…. This has to be something important to keep from me….."
Nodding slightly with her forest green eyes downcast the queen thought About the disturbing painting as she replied silently, "It is…."
The answer didn't calm the old friend at all. In fact it just made her feel worse. Taking her friend's shoulder in both her hands Yukari said, "Hitomi…. Look at me straight in the eye…."
Slowly the seeress lifted her face refusing to brush away her chestnut bangs from her view. Emerald eyes locked with the eyes of her greatest friend and felt the walls that tried to hide away the secret fall away. Closing her eyes the 'Angel' sighed heavily and Yukari knew then that her friend would finally reveal the truth.
Suddenly however Hitomi's eyes flew open and had a wild look to them. Yukari and Merle stared at their friend in confusion wondering what was happening. The red head shook her friend a little when she noticed the seeress was oblivious to all her surroundings. Hitomi's eyes were wide and made her appear to be awake, but yet she wasn't….. Her green pools weren't acting as if she was having a vision, but in another sense she was….
~~~Vision~~~
A familiar black void enveloped the seeress and Hitomi felt a sudden longing to be lost in its shadows. However the instincts within her screamed to be released and the girl cried out, "No! The wars are over! My life is complete! Please do not send me into more suffering! Relieve me of my visions!"
The young woman pulled her hands to her sides in tight fists as her hair whipped around her face by a cold wind of unknown origin. That's when she felt it…. That familiar presence…. that she felt so long ago….
"Hitomi…."
Slowly the maiden glanced around the darkness knowing she was not alone. The voice that had lingered in the corner of her mind for nearly a year finally emerged once again. With a voice that was timid, yet full of courage, the 'Angel' whispered, "Joutei?…."
"Young one, the time has come…." the rich vastness proclaimed.
The seeress felt a cold sweat form on her brow as she realized immediately where this conversation was going, but the seeress was not ready to hear the words. With a shaky voice the royal angel asked, "What do you mean, my lord?"
The immortal spanned himself like space and asked knowingly, "Do you not remember what position I gave you? Did you not accept the position as the eighth guardian?"
A memory of her time in heaven played before her mind and the royal maiden remembered the time she had been offered the role as Gaea's Guardian. It had been a wonderful gift and Hitomi gladly had accepted, but now she wondered if it was more of a curse…. Swallowing the lump forming in her throat the lady said, "Yes…."
"Well now the time has come for you to take up your duties and protect Gaea once again…." called the being with urgency running in the words. Time was short and the talk was growing long.
Hitomi frowned, "Can you not protect it, Joutei?"
For a moment the darkness was silent and no words were heard from her God as the seeress waited for the answer. After what seemed like eternity the immortal replied, "I have my reasons which in time you will come to know,…. But now have faith in me, my young one…. You are the last hope for Gaea and you must use all your powers to protect it once again…."
"Why won't you tell me?!" the woman retorted in frustration at her king wondering why she was yet again after a whole year of loyalty to Joutei was still refused information. The aggravation from the denial of it all could make one go insane! To know a being holds the key to the universe is annoying, but to deliberately be denied to hold the item to unlocking it all was exasperating. On the edge of rage Hitomi shouted, "My lord, Joutei, I know you have your reasons, but must I, your eighth guardian, be deprived of such knowledge that could perhaps change the future?!"
Wisdom flowed through his words as the powerful beings replied, "That is why I must not tell you…."
The seeress felt her tongue go numb in shock and wondered what her god possible could mean. Before she could round up something to say Joutei beat her to it, "Now my child, listen to me…. Donkirk has escaped from the bellows of Hell and has taken half of Akuma's powers. Leaving a good portion for himself this old enemy has spread the remains of the stolen essence to seven warriors also who have escaped from the lake of fire. Together the eight of them are tearing down the gates of Heaven as we speak."
Hitomi listened quietly, but was forced to interrupt, "Can you not stop them, my king?"
The seeress felt as if the blackness had shook his head at her question, "That is irrelevant. I want you to defeat them."
"Me?…." the 'Angel' whispered now even more confused, "Still I am to be left in the dark?!.…"
Chuckling the immortal whispered, "Not forever, young one…. One day when you stand by my side for the time of your afterlife you will truly understand my reasons, but for now understand there is a time for war and a time for peace…. I cannot always intervene when beings must learn things themselves…."
Exasperated the angel woman tried to grasp onto what the being said, "What? I don't comprehend what you proclaim. Joutei…. Help me!"
"No…." he whispered sadly, "I cannot be part of this battle for it is something you must experience, but I will aid you in a small way. Here, I grant you part of my powers. If your heart is forever true my essence will help you."
A white star suddenly appeared before Hitomi and was at least five feet in width and height. The light that came from it scared away the darkness and nearly blinded the seeress from its brightness. Its pearly glow drifted over the woman causing her to appear even more like a goddess. Slowly the sphere of whiteness floated to the seeress and Hitomi involuntary lifted her palms to it. Millions of tiny snowflakes shot from the center orb and flew around the maiden in graceful arches. The woman's hair and clothes fluttered as the wind grew stronger with each passing moment. Soon the star had rested itself in the royal's palms lighting the area. Hitomi smiled at it and welcomed Joutei's gift.
Suddenly the red pendant that was chained around the seeress's neck began to glow. Emerald eyes grew wide as the white sphere continued to her forgetting about it's seat in her palms. Without warning the pearly star brush up against the maiden's chest glowing even brighter. Hitomi's chest began to burn with power as the star made its way into the girl's heart. Pain flared at the enormity of it all and the seeress winced. Suddenly the light took over the darkness and the void became a white vastness. The 'Angel' was hidden away by the glow and lost in the unknown…. Soon the realm began to fade away just as a high pitched scream rang through the air….
Even with the scream from the seeress one could hear another voice through the noise. It was rich, deep, and familiar, "Go…. My young one…. Find the seven guardians and return to the Mystic Valley…. With their help you can destroy the darkness and rid Gaea of its shadows…. Goodbye…."
~~~End of Vision~~~
The seeress squeezed her emerald orbs tightly shut and clenched her teeth together. Yukari and Merle desperately took hold of their friend trying to help her though not knowing how they could. The two friends wanted the moment to end, but it seemed to hang in the air for years…. Beads of sweat dotted Hitomi's brow and the girl pressed her fists hard to her chest trying to endure the a mysterious pain. Flaring heat seared through the maiden's soul and the queen felt lost in it. The power began to swallow her up. It melded with her essence and soon her soul became part of it, but she could not hold it…. The awesome power lurched against her body begging to be let out…. It was just like her people's ancient power that was concealed in the pendant…. Always begging to be released…. Hitomi was barely able to contain it inside herself…. But suddenly it broke free….
The 'Angel' reared back her head sending her brunette locks flying. The girl's eyes flew open and she pulled away from her friends stepping several feet back. Yukari took a step towards her companion, but a sudden white aura surrounding the seeress stopped her advance. Hitomi swung her hands to her sides as she released a loud scream from her throat. White wings thrust from the lady's back just as the aura grew larger and glowed intensely. Pearly feathers were tossed into a current of wind that roared through the glass building. Servants were now staring at their queen with fright. The royal did not notice for her soul was tearing apart from the swell of power. Hitomi's shrill grew louder and suddenly the glass windows shattered spilling forth the shards. Cries of pain and fear roared in the hurricane winds as the danger grew darker. Berries, pearly leaves, and snowy feather along with bits of sharp glass flew through the air as a white light enveloped the scene and silence the screams….
~~~Heaven~~~
Joutei stood tall as his bit of power was sent to his guardian. Just as the transfer was completed the immortal whispered his command to his white army telling them not to fight when the gates would fall. Though they didn't understand it they listened to their master and let their swords fade away from their palms. With a crash the gate fell and the familiar void opened in the blue sky. The eight dark ones were still as the angels were swept away into the blackness almost immediately following the crumbling of the golden doors. Golden bricks along with chunks of earth and mist were pulled into the unknown realm disappearing from sight as soon as they entered. Donkirk watched happily as he saw the people struggle in vain against the suction. The man however frowned when he saw Joutei step forward. The being was a tower and stood much taller than any known being yet Donkirk was not afraid. He held the power of Akuma in his clutches. He surely could win against this being….
Taking a fighting stance the man stood ready at the bent gates' entrance watching the god intently. The burning form of gold merely glanced at the intruder of his peaceful realm before plunging after his children into the void. The Zaibach emperor gaped in astonishment at the action and was rooted to the ground. His seven chosen ones stood nearby also confused with this unpredictable decision. Why in Heaven's name had Joutei just given up like that?…. Perhaps the God knew he would lose a fight with the Zaibach emperor…. Yes, that's it…. He was not foolish and accepted his fate…. Or at least that's what the dark man thought. What did it matter?…. His plan was working!…. The only two beings who could stop him were now going to be sealed away for eternity in the one place they could not escape….
Grinning devilishly the corrupted soul waved his hand in the direction of the opening. With a hiss of power the hole in the sky shrank and the final of entrance into the mysterious realm was sealed. The two groups of souls from two different domains of the afterlife were imprison…. Probably never to be released….
~Okay, maybe you're a little confused with this. I mean Why would Joutei not even try to fight? Wait and find out in later chapters. That mystery isn't going to reveal anytime soon. Sorry, but that's not issue in this story. My plot deals with Hitomi and solely Hitomi. I had to think of some way to get Joutei out the picture and I thought of this though none of you know what it is yet. Just forget about it for now and indulge in the present. This is going to get fun!~
~I'm probably warping your minds already with new twists and mysterious to come, but I am sure you'll enjoy it! Tell me what you think of this chapter! Please review! The more reviews I get the faster my story goes!~
~Next chapter should be out Wednesday or Thursday! Possibly sooner depending on the amount of reviews I get!~
~Just to let you readers know I am entering my story 'The Fate of Two Worlds' into a fan fiction contest in the category of Escaflowne--Romance. Do you guess 'truthfully' think I have a chance at winning? I'm just curious. Could you review and tell me, if you don't mind? Thanks I appreciate all who do~
~Okay here's the new chapter. Hope you enjoy it. This is where the action sets in!~
~Here's a really long chapter for you to enjoy! I got worked up in typing it that I didn't even noticed how long it was getting!!!!~
~Always remember to review after you read!!!!~
The Fate of Two Worlds: The Sequel
By Angel_Wings
Chapter 3 ~ Arise
~~~Hell~~~
It was the realm in which all the immortal souls of the wicked were tortured for eternity and the demon king reigned on his black throne. The place was a cavern of black and red scorched stone. Spikes of rocks jutted out in all directions stabbing the hot air. It was were souls were tossed into a lake of burning flames and torched the bodies of the forsaken. Screams and pleas tore from uncountable beings begging for mercy which could never be granted. Their cries echoed through the vastness of shadows and evil. Hissing steam escaped from the rock walls growling as it flooded the vast area hiding away the features of the victims held there. The stench of rotting flesh and pouring blood filled the nostrils of the ruler of this realm and bones of mortals were grinded in his hands. Not a single blade of vegetation grew here, but even if it did it would have been scorched by the extreme heat…. Oh, the absolute gruesome distinction of the place was anything, but pleasant…. No words could ever truly describe the supreme terror and vile attitude of the realm for it was nothing experienced by any mortal. It was something that only lingered in the darkest of nightmares….
Yellow tongues of the fires brighten the endless cavern and allowed the demons of darkness to be highlighted in its radiance. Among those demons was a particular soul that had escaped from the fires and had crawled out of the tortures longing for revenge…. revenge on all who had brought him to his knees,…. but he was too weak…. Yes, he had powers, but limited…. Akuma, the King of Demons, could easily stop his escape back into the mortal realm and then he would see far worse tortures than he had ever encountered in his time here…. Perhaps that was something that had held this soul back years ago, but time allowed him to devise a plan…. After several years of lurking in the corners of Hell narrowly escaping the demons and the Lord of Darkness he had finally discovered what he needed to do….
Slowly this unknown soul silently crept through the shadows towards the large throne that held the ruler. The darkness and shadows hid the man's features making it impossible for the being's identity to be recognize. With intense eyes shrouded by darkness the wicked soul watched Akuma laugh in his throne with his demons nearby. The Demon King was no larger than nine feet and had skin as red as blood with black scales running over his body in patches. A cape of emptiness hug from his shoulders matching the black pair of horns that protruded from his skull. His teeth were as sharp as knives and his tongue was quick and twisted. Eyes like fire were sparked with embers of hate and darkness. His feet were like dragon's hind claws and dug into the ground tearing up the scorched earth. Red hands were like claws and human palms formed together. A long red tail with an arrow head tip swayed back and forth demonically enjoying the tortures that surrounded him. Black pants torn in several places pulled at his muscular legs showing off his power. He was horrid….
This dark being sat upon a black throne that was made of stone and very crude. It did seem suitable for a king, but because this was the King of Demons it suit him just fine. In one of his red palms was an apple red and ebony black metal trident that gleamed in the glow of burning souls. Small black forms shuffled at this monster's feet as the ruler's servants. They were demons. Their forms were pitch black and strong as steel. Dragon-like wings fell from their backs and tails with arrow head tips hissed as they withered on the ground like injured snakes. Red coals were their eyes and burned with hatred for the living. They were much like gargoyles except they were far more intelligent and they were stronger, faster, immortal, and eviler by ten folds. Though they were powerful they weren't nearly as strong as Akuma. He was the most powerful being in Hell and had the same powers Joutei did except the King of the Universe was stronger than Akuma. How much?…. No one was truly sure…. The two immortals had not faced off in over two billion years and were obviously making no move to attack one another so the mystery between difference in power was to stay a mystery….
However that does not matter at the moment of suspense for the being prowling in the darkness has decided it is time…. time to start what he has waited nearly half a decade to do…. to have revenge….
With a cry that was like a banshee and warrior rolled into one this being flung himself from the darkness straight at the king. The demons were startled by this outburst. Never before had anyone ever dared in a millennium to attack the platform that held the Demon King. It was suicide! No one could get pass the guards and servants that surrounded the dark monster lounging on the black chair of granite, yet this foolish soul dared to try?! For several moments the lower demons gaped at the being in shock letting him get past the first row of guards. Akuma barely acknowledged the intruder by just staring at him racing towards his throne waiting for his guards to handle the mere soul. It was when the man had made it to the other side of the demon wall did the servants finally attack.
Roaring in rage the shadow guards lunged at the being and thought the soul would flee in terror, but to their surprise he turned around and faced them. Angrily the nearest demon flew at him with wings outstretched and claws ready, but unfortunately his weapons were no help to him. The man threw his hand upward catching the guard by the throat. The lower class immortal would have used his claws against his victim if he had not been held back by some unknown force. A red sphere glowed around the beast and escapee as Akuma and his guards watched curiously. The demon held by throat slumped against his captor's hold as his powers were sucked out of him. The Demon King rose from his chair in surprise causing his black outfit to rustle in the heated air. Growling Akuma realized this soul was different than the other's he held in his torturous dwellings. This being had powers….
Once the red sphere faded away the guards' red coaled eyes grew wide at what they saw. Their fellow demon guard had shriveled up into a hollow shell. Leathery flesh clung to the immortal bones and red eyes embedded in the demon's skull had grown very dull. The dark wings that protruded from the victim's back were nothing except shriveled up skin clinging to thin bone and cartilage. His tail was now twisted in a gruesome display and the horror of it all was that the demon was still alive, but now his immortality had been stolen from him…. The demon was a mortal now…. No one could do that…. Could they?…. If so this being was a huge threat to any immortal….
Laughing venomously the escaped soul tossed the body of his attacker to the crowd of guards and smirked beneath his dark hood. Growling with force two leathery wings flew up from beneath the black cloth startling the guards. The escaped soul stared victoriously at his new wings. He didn't think the deadly technique would work so perfectly.
He had learned it while being tortured in the lake of fire. His eyes had watched time and time again Akuma steal away the souls of the dead mortals and thus through his tortures was able to create his own technique. This attack allowed him to steal other beings powers. It took only a few moments for the transfer to be complete at least depending on the amount of power being absorbed into his body. After performing the technique on other tortured souls and draining their energy he began to realize of the possibilities he held. At first the technique was just to lessen the pain and anguish of his tortures, but soon he realized he could do so much more. When the thought of escaped filled his mind he began to plunge into the stress of working towards that goal. He had to perfect the attack so he might catch Akuma off guard and escape the bellows of Hell. Never did he guess that he could make immortals become mortals! That was a surprising bonus…. The real interesting thing about the attack was that he took on a physical aspect from his victims…. Well at least the powerful ones…. He had done the attack on several other souls before taking on this demon in particular…. Perhaps it was a difference in power levels…. What did it matter?…. He had all he needed to finish his dark revenge…. and soon his hands would hold the life of the being who had destroyed him….
Without waiting another moment for the demons to regroup the man lunged at the Demon King. Unfortunately Akuma was preoccupied with staring at his loyal guard in shock and did not see the attack until it was too late. With a cry the man placed both of his tan hands on the red beast's cheeks and began his work. A red light began to glow and the first stages of the transfer began….
~~~Heaven~~~
The ground began to quake and the clouds began to disperse. Angels everywhere began to call out to their god desperate to know what was going on. Golden brick roads began to crack and the crystal sea that was always placid and still now roared and crashed against the land Hundreds of souls raced to the center of the realm crying out names all the while. Upon arriving at the golden throne the angel people could see a fiery man of burning gold light rising from his golden chair and stare out into space. The land of Heaven hissed as the realm shook violently sending several people to their knees, yet Joutei stood still.
It was happening…. He knew it was time to start his plan…. He had known this day was coming and he had been well prepared for it…. With a deep voice that echoed to the far reaches of space Joutei called, "My guardian angels go to the golden gates for today the 'War of Immortals' begins!"
Responding to the command the endless crowd of people took to the air and soared with pearly wings to the golden gates that stood on what might be called the edge of the vastness. Watching his children do his demand he felt his immortal heart grow warm for their loyalty. They loved him so much,…. but for the moment that was irrelevant…. What mattered was to ready himself for the beginning, for he was to place everything in the hands of mortal who he had trusted once before…. This time though it would be different…. This time he would not be able to help her….
Lifting his golden arms of light to the blue sky Joutei called out, "My seven guardians, come to me! For the time has come for you to give me your aid!"
~~~Lands East of Fanelia~~~
Did she hear right?…. Had that been the voice she thought it was?…. Sian stared at the blue sky remembering the voice that had just echoed in the depths of her mind moments ago. Could it have been?…. If that was who she thought it was then that meant something important would shortly occur….
Beside the forest guardian stood Sukai still staring towards the sky. She had been deaf to the voice of Joutei and was not aware of this turn of events. Along with Rei and Celena Sukai had no idea what was to come. Sian lifted her head to the heavens letting her bangs rise and fall in the breeze. Closing her silver eyes the warrior whispered, "I come to you, Joutei…."
Upon hearing that phrase Sukai snapped her head at her comrade that stood a few feet away and gaped. Fear pulled at her immortal soul as she realized there was extreme danger in the air. The guardian rarely spoke that name since she knew so much, but what scared her was the phrase. It sounded as if the guardian's time was over and was to return to heaven like she had once told Hitomi she would. Glancing towards Celena and her husband Sukai realized they too had heard the fragile words and both were frowning in confusion. Turning back to the brunette warrior the royal angel urgently asked, "Sian, what's going on?!--"
There wasn't a second for the guardian angel to respond for in the blink of an eye a green glowing sphere formed around the woman shocking the three friends. With each moment the light grew intensity catching the attention of nearby villagers. Cries of alarm filled the air as the Draconian people were frighten by their guardian's sudden actions. Sian kept her eyes closed and her braid lifted into the air fluttering like a cloth hung out to dry. Her green outfit flapped against her skin as the golden tiara on her brow glowed beautifully. To be more precise the emblem of the angel surrounded by swirling lines began to radiate a yellowish glow before turning to a pale green. A star formed at the warrior's forehead right over the angel crest and soon the sphere brightened. Thousands of emerald stars smaller than the first began to flow over the woman and slowly the lady began to fade away from existence. In a matter of seconds you could see right through the guardian with only her outline barely visible to signify where she stood. Before one knew it the warrior became a lone forest green star surrounded by the pale sphere with miniature sea green orbs raining down from her center. Like a comet the warrior's star shot off into the blue sky with its tiny green dust-like stars trailing behind it.
~~~Gaea~~~
As this single star soared like a bullet to the outreaches of the atmosphere four other similar miniature comets flew towards the sky. Each were different colors, but were shaped the same with a glowing sphere and tiny droplets showering down from a center star. The five colors were beautiful together and they each came from a different direction meeting up in a circle as the flew together towards the heavens.
The first star was green and came from the eastern hemisphere. From the western hemisphere came an orange-yellow star while a cream one came from the south. A sparkling summer blue came from the northern hemisphere just as a purple star came directly from the center of all four hemispheres. Together those five twirled together in a glorious display dotting the sky with their greatness. Suddenly the burning orbs of diverse colors faded away and disappeared to an unknown destination.
However moments after the five disappeared a sixth star appeared from thin air. This one was a vibrant red and floated from some unknown region. Since no one had seen it escape from its origins no one could tell where it came from…. so it is yet another mystery in itself…. But wait! Weren't there seven guardians?…. If so why did we see only six stars?….
~~~Heaven~~~
Joutei watched the seven stars surrounded by glowing spheres appear before him. The seventh star seemed special. For it did not come from the planet below, but floated from the darkness outside the golden gate. The star had just squeezing through the metal bars and entered the glorious realm. This one was a pale silver and shined proudly next to its fellow guardians.
Shortly after taking positions in front of the King of kings the stars floated close to the ground, letting themselves hover only a few feet above the golden bricks that formed the road beneath them. The yellow pavement gleamed at the light from the stars as if to welcome the temporary souls. Joutei smiled fondly at his warriors and began, "Welcome, my chosen ones. As you have been told the day has come for you to be allowed to leave your borders and travel across many lands."
Automatically several voices call out. An unknown female voice graciously called, "Thank you, my Lord. I am most grateful!"
A rich baritone voice of a man cried, "Aye, we welcome your decision with open arms."
Quickly the god lifted his glowing palms towards his guardians and said, "Peace. We have little time. Do you not remember the suffering to come with this day?"
A new voice, a male, called out and to our ears he seemed vaguely familiar, "Yes…. Once we emerge anew, as mortals, the eight demons will appear…."
Sian's voice continued, "And with their arrival the Children of Angels will be in danger…."
The woman who had first spoken at the beginning of this meeting proclaimed, "Because of this a war will once again break out over Gaea…."
A fifth voice quickly entered in the conversation as well, "Sadly, the 'Angel' will once again be forced into the destruction…. Lives will be lost…."
At last the sixth voice was allowed to say something, "My Lord, will Gaea never find peace?…. Will the 'Angel' forever suffer?…."
Sighing heavily the god replied wisely, "I cannot say for destiny is only a path given as a choice…. and if a different path is chosen the future can change drastically…. I must not speak for the future is not written…."
Looking with pride at his seven warriors chosen by him and his children he proclaimed, "Go! The hour grows near for when I am to face the darkness. I am the only one who knows the true outcome. Go, and protect the people of your lands! The darkness will come after you once I am dealt with. Find the Queen of Angels and protect her! She is the eighth guardian of Gaea meant to be the final protection for the present. She is the one I have chosen! Go, the time awaits you and the devil falls! Soon the gates of Heaven will crash down and she will be the only hope!"
The last guardian, the wisest of the seven, speaks, "But, my Lord, can you not defeat--?"
"GO!" roared the golden fire being as his final command, "Listen to your King and GO!"
Hissing with power the seven stars glowed brightly than ever before and disappeared to their lands. Each one knew their time was short and they had to retreat from their prosperous dwellings for soon a darkness greater than they had ever seen would appear and try to swallow them up….
~~~Hell~~~
As the transfer continued the dark demon of red skin and black scales began to shrink from power. With each passing moment the black scales that dotted over the devil's skin began to fade away. If one would have been paying attention they would have noticed the escapee's hands started to be covered with the gruesome attributes. One of his humane hands began to bulge and form a black dragon-like claw. Each moment the being became more and more like the demon he held in captivity except his skin had yet to turn the deep scarlet.
Akuma struggled desperately against his holder. He was immortal!!!!! How could this have happened!!!! No mortal could do this to the King of Demons!!!!! Impossible!!!! No matter how much Akuma protested to the possibility of the situation occurring nothing changed. The unknown being continued to drain the red demon of ever ounce of power he could have. Unfortunately with the transfer occurring the red demon was made immobilized and could barely move, but he was determined not to be beaten by a mere mortal! With what was left of his powers Akuma lashed out at his captive of Hell and was able to escape the grasp on his face. Falling to his knees the Demon King gasped for air while his attacker stumbled back by the blow of power.
Akuma's body was shrunken by a few inches, but since the transfer was not complete the red beast had kept most of his muscles intact. Unfortunately the lack of power was new to the immortal and he became extremely weak. In fact he could barely rise from his position let alone attack his disobeying victim. The red sphere that had once glowed brightly fell away and left the two beings standing awkwardly in the confines of Hell.
The hooded man laughed menacingly as his hands glowed a soft red for several minutes before fading into their regular color. The dark prisoner glanced around at the guards wondering if they would attack. It didn't take him to long to see that the guards were terrified of him. Whoever could bring the Demon King to his knees had to be incredible powerful…. Laughing the man growled, "No, one needs only to outwit the stupid beast! After that it take, but a few things to drain energy. If Akuma had been wiser he would have known I had escaped, but his blind arrogance caused him to miss my absence. Thus I was able to take hold of life again! With this day my reign of death will pour forth! I am no longer a mere mortal! I AM A GOD!!!!!!!"
Bringing his hands towards the scorched ceiling of stone the man's hands began to glow red once more. The cavern began to quake and dust began to fall from above. Demons were knocked off their feet from the violent quakes and some even fell into the nearby burning lake. Akuma lifted his tired eyes to the unknown being with rage burning in his red coals.
Shouting loudly from the surge of power the man lifted his head to the ceiling causing his hood to fall away revealing his face. The light from the golden flames that danced over the lake washed over his face. The man had short brown hair that was matted to his brow from the scorching heat. A thin beard had begun to grow on his face and eyes of chocolate that sizzled with death were lodged in his skull. The only thing that deformed his previous physical characteristics though were the blacks scales that ran over half his body. The dark patches washed over half of the man's face running over his left cheek and part of his forehead. A claw where a hand should have been was gleaming in the fires' light. Leathery wings were outstretched as if to show off his new toys. No more could be distinguished beneath his pitch black garments, but if one could have looked beyond the outfit they would have seen that his chest was covered in ebony patches and his back was soaked in their dark forms especially where his new wings poked out of his flesh. His legs were swirls of darkness fighting against tan skin and now his right foot was a hind claw. It was an ugly transformation….
Akuma's burning coals grew wide in surprise as he realized who had brought him to his knees. With a startle gasp the demon proclaimed, "Issac!"
Smirking the man looked down at the Demon King who he had defeated easily, "No, Akuma! I am no longer called by that name…. My new name…. is Donkirk!"
The red illumination grew in intensity and Hell grew more violent. Steam hissed as walls cracked. Spikes shattered as they crashed to the floor. Without warning a part of the wall fell away and revealed a dark void. On seeing it Akuma realized what was to come and clung to his throne desperately. Dornkirk noticed the demon's fear and quickly began his work.
Suddenly the opening roared with life and the void, like space, tried to suck everyone and everything into its depths. Souls and demons were easily pulled in while rocks and dust floated with them. Cries of protest and painful screams filled the hot air as Hell began to be torn apart. Akuma's dark throne began to break away and be taken up with the lot, but the King of the Underworld continued to hold on for his dear immortal life. Dornkirk was untouched by this hurricane suction by his use of his powers and stayed rooted to the floor. Growling at the waist of time Akuma was taking the old man of many rotations increased the strength of his power and caused the void to pull on the demon more forcefully. With his lack of strength Akuma could not hold on. To his dismay the King of Darkness was torn from the remains of his throne and pulled through the opening as the final bit of Hell.
Laughing as his plan began to unfold Donkirk sealed the opening leaving it closed on this end of void. With this seal the red light faded from existence leaving nothing, but memories behind. There were three entryways into this unknown darkness and he had sealed the passage connect with Hell. The other two ways led to the mortal realm and Heaven. With barely a sweep of his hand the former Zaibach Emperor sealed the doorway of the mortal realm. All that was left was the gateway of Heaven and that would come in time….
Turning to the lake of fire the dark man's robe whirled in the air. Seven dark forms were left in the sea of fire and smirking the hateful man knew each one. Growling the man cried, "Arise, my warriors. Today I have overthrown Hell!"
Turning with his back to his seven chosen ones the man glared at nothing in particular. His fists were clenched at his side and his teeth grinded together. With a voice dripping in rage the man roared, "Now let us take hold of Heaven!!!!"
~~~Heaven~~~
The gates of Heaven clang as the eight hooded beings desperately tried to open the double doors. Strong hands pulled at the metal and roared at being held back by a mere door. Struggling with the gold between their fingers the dark ones hissed out curses to all who were earshot. A crowd of angels stood ready for the battle with glowing swords ready. Each blessed soul was dressed in white garments that glowed brightly while their weapons were flames of gold. The angels' eyes glared hard at their opponents knowing soon the gates would fall like the walls of Jericho, but this time it would be by Akuma's hands and not Joutei's. None of the snowy army knew much about their opponents except they held the power of Akuma in their hands. Because of this they were strong…. They were much stronger than anyone there except Joutei…. So they would be triumphed…. Right?….
Joutei towered over his people waiting for the gates to give in. The ancient being of burning light watched the dark souls again and again ram themselves against the hard metal making the bars bend. Soon the gates would open…. and the battle would ensue…. The golden immortal was the only being that knew of the outcome…. and so he had planned for this…. His goals were already laid out…. He only needed to put them to action….
He had little time left…. Lifting his hands to the sky Joutei closed his eyes. A sphere of gold sizzled around the immortal showing his awesome power. His angels did not know what their God was doing, but they could feel his power. It swelled around them sending the winds into an uproar. Clenching their teeth together the angels forced themselves to watch their enemy for they could not afford to take their eyes off them. Breathing deeply the powerful golden form called out to the last hope for Gaea, "Hitomi…."
~~~Fanelia~~~
Hitomi plucked a bushel of ripe berries from a nearby bush that was three feet taller then herself. The small fruity orbs were a deep blue and looked a lot like blueberries, but tastes far better than any known berry the seeress had ever tasted. The pregnant woman tossed one of the morsel into her mouth as she glanced around the glass house. The building was one of many that held Fanelia's crops in storage. Inside this particular one they were rows upon rows of lulu berries which were being picked by dozens of female servants. The odd name of the berry did nothing for its odd look. For though the berries where rather normal looking (in Hitomi's terms) the bushes were anything, but normal. The hedges were made up of white leaves that were dotted with the blue crop. The bark was a light gray that brought unknown beauty to the forestry. What splendor….
It was when the berry's juices had burst with flavor over Hitomi's tongue did the seeress finally return to listening to the voice nearby. Turning around the young royal asked, "I'm sorry, but what did you say, Yukari?"
A young woman in child stood nearby in a pale rose dress that held no sleeves. Next to her was Merle who held a small container. While the two friends were talking the young cat had gone to picking some of the delicate fruit to keep later as a snack. The new woman threw back her head to relieve herself of her red bangs and say, "Hitomi Kazanki Fanel! You must stop daydreaming and listen to me!"
The 'Angel' merely laughed lightly and said, "I'm very sorry, Yukari. It's just that I have things on my mind…."
A far off look came to the pale face of the woman from the Mystic Moon. Her emerald eyes slid upwards to the blue vastness staring at the lonely place her former world had held its glory. The sadness from its destruction had been buried for some time, but every so often when Hitomi felt her mind wandering from her royal duties she often would find herself staring at that patch of sky that no longer held the lush planet of green and blue. Though her people were saved and they were living happily so much pain had been experienced in the ordeal that Hitomi almost wished it hadn't occurred.
"Hitomi?…." the quiet voice of her best friend reached the angel's ears and the royal turned to her comrade as Yukari asked, "What is it?…."
Shaking her head from the prior thoughts of her home world the seeress murmured, "Nothing…."
Merle stole a glance at both girls before deciding to remain silent and continue with her harvest of lulu berries. However Yukari wasn't about to let the matter drop. Frowning the red head placed herself in front of her dearest friend and glared at Hitomi with sparks in her eyes. With a calm, but firm voice the expecting mother said, "Hitomi…. I have known you since the beginning of high school and we have never held back secrets…. This has to be something important to keep from me….."
Nodding slightly with her forest green eyes downcast the queen thought About the disturbing painting as she replied silently, "It is…."
The answer didn't calm the old friend at all. In fact it just made her feel worse. Taking her friend's shoulder in both her hands Yukari said, "Hitomi…. Look at me straight in the eye…."
Slowly the seeress lifted her face refusing to brush away her chestnut bangs from her view. Emerald eyes locked with the eyes of her greatest friend and felt the walls that tried to hide away the secret fall away. Closing her eyes the 'Angel' sighed heavily and Yukari knew then that her friend would finally reveal the truth.
Suddenly however Hitomi's eyes flew open and had a wild look to them. Yukari and Merle stared at their friend in confusion wondering what was happening. The red head shook her friend a little when she noticed the seeress was oblivious to all her surroundings. Hitomi's eyes were wide and made her appear to be awake, but yet she wasn't….. Her green pools weren't acting as if she was having a vision, but in another sense she was….
~~~Vision~~~
A familiar black void enveloped the seeress and Hitomi felt a sudden longing to be lost in its shadows. However the instincts within her screamed to be released and the girl cried out, "No! The wars are over! My life is complete! Please do not send me into more suffering! Relieve me of my visions!"
The young woman pulled her hands to her sides in tight fists as her hair whipped around her face by a cold wind of unknown origin. That's when she felt it…. That familiar presence…. that she felt so long ago….
"Hitomi…."
Slowly the maiden glanced around the darkness knowing she was not alone. The voice that had lingered in the corner of her mind for nearly a year finally emerged once again. With a voice that was timid, yet full of courage, the 'Angel' whispered, "Joutei?…."
"Young one, the time has come…." the rich vastness proclaimed.
The seeress felt a cold sweat form on her brow as she realized immediately where this conversation was going, but the seeress was not ready to hear the words. With a shaky voice the royal angel asked, "What do you mean, my lord?"
The immortal spanned himself like space and asked knowingly, "Do you not remember what position I gave you? Did you not accept the position as the eighth guardian?"
A memory of her time in heaven played before her mind and the royal maiden remembered the time she had been offered the role as Gaea's Guardian. It had been a wonderful gift and Hitomi gladly had accepted, but now she wondered if it was more of a curse…. Swallowing the lump forming in her throat the lady said, "Yes…."
"Well now the time has come for you to take up your duties and protect Gaea once again…." called the being with urgency running in the words. Time was short and the talk was growing long.
Hitomi frowned, "Can you not protect it, Joutei?"
For a moment the darkness was silent and no words were heard from her God as the seeress waited for the answer. After what seemed like eternity the immortal replied, "I have my reasons which in time you will come to know,…. But now have faith in me, my young one…. You are the last hope for Gaea and you must use all your powers to protect it once again…."
"Why won't you tell me?!" the woman retorted in frustration at her king wondering why she was yet again after a whole year of loyalty to Joutei was still refused information. The aggravation from the denial of it all could make one go insane! To know a being holds the key to the universe is annoying, but to deliberately be denied to hold the item to unlocking it all was exasperating. On the edge of rage Hitomi shouted, "My lord, Joutei, I know you have your reasons, but must I, your eighth guardian, be deprived of such knowledge that could perhaps change the future?!"
Wisdom flowed through his words as the powerful beings replied, "That is why I must not tell you…."
The seeress felt her tongue go numb in shock and wondered what her god possible could mean. Before she could round up something to say Joutei beat her to it, "Now my child, listen to me…. Donkirk has escaped from the bellows of Hell and has taken half of Akuma's powers. Leaving a good portion for himself this old enemy has spread the remains of the stolen essence to seven warriors also who have escaped from the lake of fire. Together the eight of them are tearing down the gates of Heaven as we speak."
Hitomi listened quietly, but was forced to interrupt, "Can you not stop them, my king?"
The seeress felt as if the blackness had shook his head at her question, "That is irrelevant. I want you to defeat them."
"Me?…." the 'Angel' whispered now even more confused, "Still I am to be left in the dark?!.…"
Chuckling the immortal whispered, "Not forever, young one…. One day when you stand by my side for the time of your afterlife you will truly understand my reasons, but for now understand there is a time for war and a time for peace…. I cannot always intervene when beings must learn things themselves…."
Exasperated the angel woman tried to grasp onto what the being said, "What? I don't comprehend what you proclaim. Joutei…. Help me!"
"No…." he whispered sadly, "I cannot be part of this battle for it is something you must experience, but I will aid you in a small way. Here, I grant you part of my powers. If your heart is forever true my essence will help you."
A white star suddenly appeared before Hitomi and was at least five feet in width and height. The light that came from it scared away the darkness and nearly blinded the seeress from its brightness. Its pearly glow drifted over the woman causing her to appear even more like a goddess. Slowly the sphere of whiteness floated to the seeress and Hitomi involuntary lifted her palms to it. Millions of tiny snowflakes shot from the center orb and flew around the maiden in graceful arches. The woman's hair and clothes fluttered as the wind grew stronger with each passing moment. Soon the star had rested itself in the royal's palms lighting the area. Hitomi smiled at it and welcomed Joutei's gift.
Suddenly the red pendant that was chained around the seeress's neck began to glow. Emerald eyes grew wide as the white sphere continued to her forgetting about it's seat in her palms. Without warning the pearly star brush up against the maiden's chest glowing even brighter. Hitomi's chest began to burn with power as the star made its way into the girl's heart. Pain flared at the enormity of it all and the seeress winced. Suddenly the light took over the darkness and the void became a white vastness. The 'Angel' was hidden away by the glow and lost in the unknown…. Soon the realm began to fade away just as a high pitched scream rang through the air….
Even with the scream from the seeress one could hear another voice through the noise. It was rich, deep, and familiar, "Go…. My young one…. Find the seven guardians and return to the Mystic Valley…. With their help you can destroy the darkness and rid Gaea of its shadows…. Goodbye…."
~~~End of Vision~~~
The seeress squeezed her emerald orbs tightly shut and clenched her teeth together. Yukari and Merle desperately took hold of their friend trying to help her though not knowing how they could. The two friends wanted the moment to end, but it seemed to hang in the air for years…. Beads of sweat dotted Hitomi's brow and the girl pressed her fists hard to her chest trying to endure the a mysterious pain. Flaring heat seared through the maiden's soul and the queen felt lost in it. The power began to swallow her up. It melded with her essence and soon her soul became part of it, but she could not hold it…. The awesome power lurched against her body begging to be let out…. It was just like her people's ancient power that was concealed in the pendant…. Always begging to be released…. Hitomi was barely able to contain it inside herself…. But suddenly it broke free….
The 'Angel' reared back her head sending her brunette locks flying. The girl's eyes flew open and she pulled away from her friends stepping several feet back. Yukari took a step towards her companion, but a sudden white aura surrounding the seeress stopped her advance. Hitomi swung her hands to her sides as she released a loud scream from her throat. White wings thrust from the lady's back just as the aura grew larger and glowed intensely. Pearly feathers were tossed into a current of wind that roared through the glass building. Servants were now staring at their queen with fright. The royal did not notice for her soul was tearing apart from the swell of power. Hitomi's shrill grew louder and suddenly the glass windows shattered spilling forth the shards. Cries of pain and fear roared in the hurricane winds as the danger grew darker. Berries, pearly leaves, and snowy feather along with bits of sharp glass flew through the air as a white light enveloped the scene and silence the screams….
~~~Heaven~~~
Joutei stood tall as his bit of power was sent to his guardian. Just as the transfer was completed the immortal whispered his command to his white army telling them not to fight when the gates would fall. Though they didn't understand it they listened to their master and let their swords fade away from their palms. With a crash the gate fell and the familiar void opened in the blue sky. The eight dark ones were still as the angels were swept away into the blackness almost immediately following the crumbling of the golden doors. Golden bricks along with chunks of earth and mist were pulled into the unknown realm disappearing from sight as soon as they entered. Donkirk watched happily as he saw the people struggle in vain against the suction. The man however frowned when he saw Joutei step forward. The being was a tower and stood much taller than any known being yet Donkirk was not afraid. He held the power of Akuma in his clutches. He surely could win against this being….
Taking a fighting stance the man stood ready at the bent gates' entrance watching the god intently. The burning form of gold merely glanced at the intruder of his peaceful realm before plunging after his children into the void. The Zaibach emperor gaped in astonishment at the action and was rooted to the ground. His seven chosen ones stood nearby also confused with this unpredictable decision. Why in Heaven's name had Joutei just given up like that?…. Perhaps the God knew he would lose a fight with the Zaibach emperor…. Yes, that's it…. He was not foolish and accepted his fate…. Or at least that's what the dark man thought. What did it matter?…. His plan was working!…. The only two beings who could stop him were now going to be sealed away for eternity in the one place they could not escape….
Grinning devilishly the corrupted soul waved his hand in the direction of the opening. With a hiss of power the hole in the sky shrank and the final of entrance into the mysterious realm was sealed. The two groups of souls from two different domains of the afterlife were imprison…. Probably never to be released….
~Okay, maybe you're a little confused with this. I mean Why would Joutei not even try to fight? Wait and find out in later chapters. That mystery isn't going to reveal anytime soon. Sorry, but that's not issue in this story. My plot deals with Hitomi and solely Hitomi. I had to think of some way to get Joutei out the picture and I thought of this though none of you know what it is yet. Just forget about it for now and indulge in the present. This is going to get fun!~
~I'm probably warping your minds already with new twists and mysterious to come, but I am sure you'll enjoy it! Tell me what you think of this chapter! Please review! The more reviews I get the faster my story goes!~
~Next chapter should be out Wednesday or Thursday! Possibly sooner depending on the amount of reviews I get!~
~Just to let you readers know I am entering my story 'The Fate of Two Worlds' into a fan fiction contest in the category of Escaflowne--Romance. Do you guess 'truthfully' think I have a chance at winning? I'm just curious. Could you review and tell me, if you don't mind? Thanks I appreciate all who do~