Disclaimer: ... I don't own Fairy Tail and its bits guys, ok? I mean, you can clearly see it from the miserable state of my bank account! I'm looking at you Hiro Mashima-san!
Indomitable Heart
Chapter 19: The Past Unburied
A hand coated with angry flames of a dragon grabbed a dirt-lidded skull, ''... BURN!''
FIRE DRAGON'S GRIP STRIKE!
Letting out a tremendous quantity of thermally charged ether from his hand, Igneous swung the walking corpse and letting the burst carry the body into another two of similar state, the now lethal burning piece of decaying chump slammed with lethal velocity into living dead now scattered in more pieces.
The man preforming the act let out a breath, turning away from the charred remains to his companions, specifically the one carrying a child, ''Girl, how much longer?''
Vidia gulped slightly from the sudden feeling of dried air, ''Not-Not long... Just over there...'' She pointed to the direction with her head, her hands while feeling weariness of carrying a little girl for so long remained at task.
Outwardly she tried to project whatever the miraculous wisps of hope and courage that were fueling her since a while ago, meanwhile inwardly, her brain was an absolute mess of trying to sift through priorities. Common logic dictated not to ever trust any magic users she ever crosses paths with, yet these two, while their accidental meeting being strewn with rather unfortunate circumstances were proving to be decent people... She still wished she didn't come to trust them that easily, but her best and safest bet for her and her Domina's only daughter's survival lied with the odd duo.
''For the time being, that is. Yes, once we are in the clear I will help them...'' She paused, suddenly feeling a slight wave of dizziness washed over her. 'Help' them?! Is that what just went through her head? How could she even think about it?! It would be paramount to treason, helping and concealing a magus! ''N-Never I... When their guard is at its low, I will e-|stay| with them... Huh?''
Huh?
''...'' Something was seriously wrong with her, it can't be anything else!
''You can't be serious.''
Her inner turmoil was interrupted by the man's gruff voice, but he wasn't paying her any mind, but at the seemingly rising bodies he previously defeated.
Igneous sneered as the undead slowly, and quite sluggishly started to rise again, the heath from his fire barely a hindrance. ''How are they doing that?!''
Not only did his attacks fail to stop them every time they clashed, but Fire Dragonslaying Magic did nothing to improve his odds. Any undead he would face literally ignored the damage his flames could muster, and each one simply stood up after a while. If it continued like this, even he would fall prey to exhaustion sooner or later.
Frustrated and peeved that one thing he prided himself with wasn't giving any results, Igneous was slowly running out of fresh ideas. If they reach the place he highly suspected the main enemy was hiding, then what? Do they talk, try and reach some manner of understanding or simply let the waves of magic and brute force do the talking? To be honest, he didn't know right now which one would've been preferable, which also annoyed him.
They needed to seriously reconsider the approach, not the best idea in the middle of the raging infestation, but one couldn't be too choosy right now.
''We need a new plan...'' He muttered, trying to regain his bearings, and turned slightly to the only other whose consult can be of any value, ''Iona, do you have anything, anything at all, to turn odds to favor?''
The healer furrowed her brow, constantly trying to maintain vigil and inner calm, ''I'm not sure...'' When his face scrunched in displeasure, she continued exasperatedly, ''This is not my actual field of work. I deal with the living not the dead... Or whatever you might name this chaotic foul-up.''
''Sorcery... Heretic's dark magic... Foulcraft...'' Vidia mumbled suddenly, as if compelled in her mind to give her very limited insight on the situation.
The mage woman bit back a retort on that, magic is not something so easily explained to the narrow-minded and dull people. But then again, she started to see the reason why. ''Yes, gratitude for that, I wasn't talking to you, now stay quiet in your little lost world of ignorance.'' It took a fair amount of self-control not to say the exact words out loud. Though she realized that the girl's state is partially their fault, her presence was strangely starting to gnaw on her patience.
Maybe this is how enthralling mages saw their hand's work, like talking to a child in an adult body. Very, very much annoying.
Igneous, not aware of her inner turmoil or simply not caring to notice much in his still battle-laden mind's limited perception, spoke, ''Then any theory might be helpful. For one, how come fire does them almost no harm?'' He grunted while straining to kick the half skeleton that tried to crawl to the girls.
Iona watched in great amazement as the crawling bones were sent flying, spinning across air and landing in gods' knows whose backyard. ''Why indeed...'' She repeated slowly, normally it should be effective just like against flesh-bound, but these were mostly bare bones without much protection. Unless, there was a sort of tampering in place, going further, the dead souls of the damned not deemed worthy for the Elysian Fields usually ended in some or other form of torment. There was only one possible conclusion.
''Do you know about the stories that depict the Underworld?''
A soft 'yes' from which she ignored and expected an answer from her male companion.
''...''
Sadly, she found none. Iona wasn't sure if that surprised her or not, ''You truly know nothing? Not even about when people talk about being frightened of afterlife? The fear of not doing enough in life or facing eternal torture...''
Igneous regarded her blankly for a moment and then the other girl before focusing on Iona, ''Honestly, I prioritized combat training over contemplating on some hearsay older than first stone cities... I heard from both sides, bits and pieces mostly, about many olden narratives and they all sound the same to me.''
''No they are not!/It's not!''
He raised a brow at the surprising outburst from both sides before snorting out, ''Yes, of course. Down below us is Underworld, ruled by one God of two names; above us we have the skies ruled by number of gods with different names; on the coast where sea lies eternally blue...'' He paused for a few seconds before finishing dramatically, ''A god that has two names and only one trident.''
Iona's mouth and brow lines worked independently, painting a very ugly grimace. That there was so much simplicity put without any forethought and quite rudely, if he spoke it anywhere in the old home, he'd probably be made an example for blasphemy with such casual dismissal.
Vidia's reaction was less picturesque, but still reasonably stunned, how one can have such vague and blatant view on Gods was beyond her. There is no doubt which part of afterlife he belonged to.
''Alright then, heh,'' Iona said eyes now wide, still scandalized on Igneous's newfound outlook, ''If it's all the same to you, you lout, maybe you should try and work the riddle on your own. It cannot be that hard, since the pieces fit all the same.''
''Oh don't draw me into that debate on whose Gods are superior... I never claimed to question their existence, I know enough,'' He punctuated by not so subtly pretending to wipe his right shoulder where the proof of his other power stood, ''And if both sides believe that a God is responsible for overseeing the souls of those departed, why all this?''
That was reasonable for Iona to return to her previous composure, though she would give him one long lecture about disrespecting ones tradition as such at the later date, ''Fine, as you know upon death of a person, the soul is sent to the domain of Hades, where upon stepping into the realm it offers no turning back to your previous life. Now, depending on the way you lived, the merit or virtues you possessed, there are three places you can end up with. One of them being the river of the damned, Phlegethon, in whose flames were cast all manner of wicked men.''
''A flaming river?'' Igneous inquired, which Iona only nodded stiffly as if daring him to question again, not that he intended to, ''Is that why my fire keeps failing?''
''It is the only plausible explanation, yet I feel like we are still missing a lot of other variables.''
''What do you mean?''
She gave him somewhat a wry smile, ''Now that I think about it, if there were truly keepers in the Underworld, this wouldn't have happened in the first place... The ruler of afterlife has the supreme authority on how the souls of the deceased are sieved. I can understand that those departed not a moment ago would come back due to the disturbance in the natural laws... It shouldn't be possible that those who fell long before even our time... Uhg, it just doesn't make sense!''
Lost in her overly long tangent, Iona failed to notice a fissure appearing close to her and the other girl's feet, a grotesque pale hand went to claim her, and it managed as much as reach her front robe until a rough human hand clamped on the spinal column that connected with the head. With a mighty growl, Igneous successfully separated the two in a sound that was no different when tearing multiple branches of wood all at once.
And so they stood, Iona thought in exasperation, seemingly shrugging the attempt on her life, something that was entirely new to her. One clueless pup with her fledgling attendant and Igneous, bad-tempered but the only thing between them and whatever the next life held. All of a sudden, the bleak autumn sky, full of depressing gray color didn't seem so bad anymore. Now she could understand why Hector's vivid descriptions of fluffy sheets weren't just rantings of his deranged fantasies.
''I don't know how much longer I can continue like this...'' She trailed off, and if she were in any other situation, the image of Igneous holding a skull that tried to bite him would've been hilarious. Disgusting certainly, but funny all the same, with how he was starring back at that thing. With no fear whatsoever.
The red-head clearly heard her, but didn't comment at first, choosing to glare at the offensive skull, ''If I could understand better then perhaps... Hey, this has gone far enough, don't you have any words of wisdom to offer?''
...
Scoffing at the silent treatment, Igneous deepened the concentration it took him to speak with his tenant. It wasn't that he knew what made him tick exactly, but over the years he learned that to reach the deepest places of his psyche was akin to pulling a rope from a well. A very deep well, though he didn't need to go all the way, like he recently found out, it would be enough to just pull the rope slightly, a link that lead to that place in his mind.
''Come now, chiefest and most all-seeing among deities. Would you not shed some light onto us ignorant in need? I, for one, am not too fond of this cold feeling. I know you are at least aware of that much, we are facing a grave danger here, and are running out of resources to fight.''
Thank the heavens that no one could hear him say such words on the outside, because he'd sooner bite his own tongue than repeat them out-loud.
...
Unfortunately, more silence greeted him. So he decided a different approach would be the wisest course of action.
''... Fuck! I know you can hear me you puffed-up bastard! For once in my life I truly NEED your guidance!''
''Quit hollering, I was resting, not surprising considering your taste of inner decor.''
And just in a nick of time when he considered declaring it a lost cause. ''Good, then this should interest you greatly.'' Igneous replied snidely, before trying to convey the mess they were in to Helios as accurately as possible. Finally he was getting somewhere, even if the divine inside him was a stuck up jerk, he probably had access to a much vaster repository of knowledge than any nearest sources he could come by.
After hearing his case, the bearer of first fire had only one thing to say, with centuries-old accumulated wisdom, ''Are all simians inherently this stupid or is that a birth defect?''
And that's when Igneous came to realize, just because someone had the presence and might to represent the prime star that took the sky, the weren't above holding petty grudges or lack of empathy with anything they considered beneath them... In other words, they were screwed. Though, what the hell was 'simian'? ''... Have a pleasant dreams while I find how to plow through hordes of undead... And then try to make them realize their poor orientation skills.''
''And this is exactly why you are unfit to be a great leader.''
''Gratitude for unwanted observation, I'm doing fine as it is. Apologies for disturbing your sleep.''
''Wait...'' Helios let out a long-suffering sigh, ''Much as I detest the current you, your actions are at least noble, but you should heed others around you as much as you heed your own heart. Now listen closely, for I shall not repeat myself...''
Surprisingly, having an inner conversation didn't last the same length when fully immersed consciousness outweighed his perception unlike when he is sleeping. Maybe it had to do with how strongly he tried to connect with his 'inner' self, but that was for another occasion. Now, he had to readjust the grip on the skull, a quick look around told him nothing changed much, except that Iona was closer and starring directly at his eyes.
''Huh, hers are interesting color as well...'' He blinked twice and predictably she scuttled back, but before she could stutter any apologies, he interrupted her, ''I know what we must do.''
''Y-You do?'' She exclaimed in a hurry, ''Did you... Just now did you...?'' She eyed his mark, but he understood now enough that it's still a sore subject to her and only inclined his head in confirmation. ''Then we are saved.''
''Not the words I would use,'' He started tersely, now clearly being able to see the misty haze that surrounded the dead, a temporary gift apparently. ''We move now, no further delays.'' Tossing the skull in the air once, he waited until it came into exact position for his foot. He was satisfied to hear a splash in the nearby canal, a new record.
Iona covered her face, embarrassed at the casual display to the deceased. Even if the undead tried to do them harm, Igneous treated it quite barbarically. Though she had no complaints if they get to see another day at this point. She motioned to Vidia to follow close behind and not stray, the girl doing as told all the while muttering about 'mad people who play with bones' and 'they're all going to burn in afterlife for this'.
Neither mage found it too offending, but Iona knew its not only their souls that are hanging in the balance.
XxX
''Hey, hey...'' Argos let out shakily, ''... Are you seeing the same thing as I do?''
Kastos wasn't fairing better, his teeth almost painfully grinding against one another to keep his nerves about, ''W-What manner of curse is this?''
The glowing red eyes, the body made of the seemingly coal black miasma that emanated the aura of death, Ganicus didn't need other clues to add two and two. ''Hellhounds, the Bearers of Death.''
''What in fuck are you two talking about?!'' Sevius' shaking was perhaps the worst of them all, ''Hellhound? What... As in that name the Bellatorian cocksuckers pinned to Igneous?!''
''Perhaps they weren't that far off... Igneous always seemed to carry the feeling of upcoming dread, even when sparring, and his eyes were no better.'' Kastos grunted, fighting the upcoming chill.
Ganicus grimaced at the way the Galian brought the comparison to their leader. While true that the man in question never formally seemed to acknowledge the said nickname, he also never outright deemed to correct others of its use. And so the name was stuck with him throughout the years. But seeing the genuine article, that was something Ganicus wasn't sure how to act upon, and neither were his comrades.
''The eyes!'' Argos screamed in warning, suddenly even more distraught if possible, ''They are a bad omen, I heard from stories, don't look into them or they'll drag you to your deaths!''
''What?!''
''You are shitting me?! But I already saw them once, how...!''
''All of you, stop that!'' Ganicus tried to put as much damper on the rising panic which couldn't bode well for them. ''The old knowledge also depicts them as guarding the wold of the dead, don't fall prey to superstition now. As gladiators we have faced death countless times, this will be no different.''
His words meant to encourage, but deep down he was aware, this was far from the proper way of greeting death than they are used to. Unlike the arena, so unlike the days gone by. It weighed on their minds as the misty creatures, three in total, circled around them their unnatural appearance melting along with the shadows.
''Brother speaks truth,'' Argos stated, in a strangely calmer tone, ''If Igneous and you could both bring a monster down... Yes, then what threat are some rabid dogs?''
Ganicus's foot scrunched the rock he slowly stepped off, almost painfully slow, ''Argos, what are you even...?''
It failed to reach his friend's ears as he suddenly grinned an almost venomous smile, full of teeth, the maddening expression taking form, ''Watch me brothers, this one is all mine... Γαία, μάτηρ παντός, χαίρε!''
His eyes widened upon recognizing an old chant of his people he seldom heard, but whose intent guided his hands all these years, ''NO – !''
It all happened in an instant, the weight of one leaving their close-knit guard, as Argos sprinted his fastest one yet, ducking under a swipe of black mass, ''You are nothing but specters!'' His spear found its mark, piercing where the monstrous dog's shoulder is and stopping short after a the head sunked in.
Mad brown eyes clashed with glowing red ones, so they weren't exactly like his, ''And I was just thinking of our beloved leader.'' Removing one hand but still keeping his target pinned down, he reached for his gladius,''Good dog!'' He exclaimed gutturally, raising the sword to bury the deadly metal into the thing's head where it belonged, ''Now heel!''
~ALl oF THe saDNesS...~
_Heart in fragments, yet he holds it together with all his might_
~... anD feAr...~
_What made you strive to be stronger...?_
~... aNd all YouR aNGer...~
Ganicus's heartbeat quickened rapidly, as he watched the descending hand with the blade, now away in the mouth of the second hellhound. He knew it was foolish, he just knew deep within his mind that they stood no real chance, the way they were now. If only they had someone, stronger, better. If only Igneous was here!
The phrase resonated inside his head, a painful reminder that no matter how much they accomplished or how much they survived and overcomed their hardships, it was always Igneous that carried them to.
''Kastos, help me here, you big o-...!''
''I'm trying t-...!''
And finally did Ganicus realize that his remaining two comrades left his side, the safest protective circle was broken just like that, starting from the weakest link above. Is he going to be the same? Will he meet his end alone?
~... LeT It ALL OuT...!~
''Fuck that...'' He spat through dried mouth, they will not end up like some cattle being slaughtered by wild beasts. Not now, not ever!
If fighting like gladiators will get them nowhere, then it is time he had them fight the true fight! ''Not the mockery the masses expected us to, we do not fight to entertain nor to fill your base pleasures... I am Ganicus, born Alkaios son of the mighty Daemonian people and WE. FIGHT. TO WIN!''
Kastos and Sevius both lost their composure as they heard a roar, and even when they turned, frightened that the third hellhound seemed frozen midair with a sword sticking from his flank, the beast defied laws of physics as it spun making a perfect eclipse before being thrown against an olden oak tree.
Only when the snap of the bark was heard, did their eyes register what has happened; Ganicus stood, his arms outstretched, looking like the legendary enraged lion with his hair now standing as if a reminisce of the animal's fearsome mane.
And his gaze found the next target, he ran with speed previously unseen, where Argos was about to be crushed by the first infernal dog who seemingly ignored the spear sticking out of its body. Ganicus on the other hand, didn't. Dog and man clashed, Ganicus's remaining sword arm drove a powerful punch straight to the jaw, but recovering fast the black maw that smelled of brimstone and ashes clamped in a vice grip.
''Perfect.''
In a synchronized move that couldn't have been anything less than sheer madness in front of the normal eyes, the former dimachaerus's wrestled the spear still lodged in the side courtesy by Argos. His effort not in vain, Ganicus now fighting through pain of slowly increasing pressure of the maw, ripped the weapon out only to shove it through the base of the throat. It did the trick, for the black dog slowly started to relinquish the hold, and with one more roar Ganicus released his bloodied limb.
''We are not off this world yet,'' His voice came with a more harsher edge than he'd ever used in life, ''And you are not for this word either, so begone beast!'' Ignoring the growl from the mythical animal that was like hundreds of claws tearing at his mind, Ganicus timed the final push perfectly catching the second hound with his face red from Argos's torn hand.
Kastos and Sevius could only watch speechless, never before have they seen Ganicus, the most relaxed and joke oriented gladiator fight with such ferocity. The fights in the arena, the sparring, no, this man now in front of them stood a true titan as if possessed by the warrior spirit of then ancient tribe.
''That... was fucking amazing...'' Sevius could only mutter out, with Kastos slowly nodding his head.
Their attention was snapped toward the sickening sound of something akin to flesh being sliced open, and soon enough, the very source were two hellhounds now both standing yet again, with the one pulling the weapons out of the other with his teeth not even caring if it'd bitten too close to the body.
The discarded tools of combat were smoking as they leaved the trail of dark sludge that reminded them of tar and burning coal embers. The sight was so repulsive it even made Sevius, the one with the foulest tongue flinch his eyes, focusing on Argos who was being now cradled by Kastos who tried to wrap whatever cloth he could scavenge on himself to stem the blood loss.
''Not yet... You still wish to claim these souls?''
When about to ask Ganicus of the next course of action, he was immediately confused by the line. ''Our souls?'' Did he purposely excluded himself or was it some slip caused by the sudden change in mood. Even from this angle, the fair-headed man's back stood straight, not a single thought of running away from his posture.
A thought highly entertaining to him though.
''Then so be it.'' Ganicus, never taking his eyes from the two death dogs, his senses attuned toward the third at the same time, made to smear his blood from the left hand on his chest, essentially making a sanguine imitation of the target mark. ''Your fight is with US! You corrupted jackals of death, you would take these men whose being yearns freedom?! Their time is not yet nigh!''
''Ganicus...'' Kastos called, not sure who exactly he was calling in the first place now. Or if it was the right name he was using.
''I pledge my very life, my own honor...!''
The taunting only made their snarls more pronounced, both were leaning on their hind legs, ready to give chase. The challenge too delicious for them to be ignored any longer.
''... Try and take it! For if you can't even do that, your entire selves are useless!''
With a resounding howl, they intended to do just that.
Ganicus's half turned his head to regard the two remaining conscious companions. ''I'm glad you managed this far... Now run, lest you die in this accursed place.'' He didn't leave them to respond, for there was no need, not after seeing the result of his action, the weight of his words alone were assuring enough.
For what was about to be done was better left with no witnesses in the near vicinity, the feat would be even deadly to the mortal container of Alkaios. But first, the reclaiming of the lost blade. Feeling the strength seep in his limbs, he turned to the third hound, which followed his brethren in the same manner as a loyal pack member would, exactly what he was hoping for. There was not a single chance to defeat every single one of the hellhounds by one.
No, he will take them down all at once!
The third was closer and by far easiest to reach, and mid lounge Ganicus awaited the attempt with with his left blade carved the gash in the side. It wasn't meant to kill by any means, just enough to slow down the dog so he could manage to retrieve the other blade, of course such risky attempt left a burning tar these cretins had flowing through them spill on his left flank.
The pain was just like when he remembered being branded by hot iron, only more evenly spread. ''No matter. Pain is also an ally. Besting incoming death is not a child's play! NOW USE IT!''
Momentarily pausing, he regained his senses, balancing his pivot, he delivered a crushing elbow to the animal whose whimper he heard for the first time.
But there is no time for celebrating meager victories, his gaze focused on the main prize. The hollow that was left in the tree thanks to the previous impact. Even with explaining to him for the first time, Ganicus could never have hoped to achieve what was needed of him. Not the way he is, not ever.
Then again, he had absolutely no desire to die here, which is why he puts everything in the next move. Normal mortal body would have been crushed under the sheer pressure, yet this body is anything but normal. Being dormant for the longest time, with barely a minuscule of its potential properly utilized, the body of Ganicus the Gladiator was most definitely not ready.
To take such task upon oneself, truly is the courage of proud warriors ever lasting.
Compelled by words, Ganicus didn't slow even as he approached the slightly upturned tree. One step, two steps and finally... He had no need to turn and look for he knew he was being chased down like a prey they considered him as. It's ironic that when he turns his face would be the last thing the broken curs saw.
As he ascended the uneven bark of the tree, separated from ground, he felt the weight pulling him back to Earth Mother, and he would return, only with the single goal to exact vengeance on his foes. ''My great ancestor Heraklinos, I guide your hand!''
The swords in his hands co-joined, would only swing as one. As one, shouted the same stentorian man.
MY STRENGTH WITH YOU!/''YOUR WILL, MY HANDS!''
Vounó syntriptikós kléos!/MOUNTAIN CRUSHING GLORY!
XxX
''Hmm, so this is a cemetery of Bellatorians?'' Igneous said, looking around to see if his eyes were playing tricks on him, ''It is more quieter than I expected.'' He took the first step and then another, certainly he could feel there were others, hidden. It's the lack of undead that made him concerned.
Vidia look at him as if he was insane to state such thing, but held her tongue, not wishing to talk more than necessary. There's nothing that could be said from her side that would help protecting little Messalina.
Iona didn't have such restriction though, ''It is the final resting place. Did you ever wonder where the phrase 'silent as the grave' came from?'' The man stopped for a moment, to contemplate or reach with his senses, she couldn't be sure by the way he was looking around.
Igneous made a non-committal sound, not turning his head to her he said, ''Interesting.'' There was silence for an entire minute as they reached deeper into the place, if the dark weather didn't already made the whole atmosphere look like a persons worst nightmare, holes, broken tombs certainly did. ''I suppose they never heard about it.''
Both girls blinked, only Iona being the one to understand, ''You mean, they are already here?'' She looked around, but the shadows, strangely flowing like an all-encompassing ink obscured anything from her eyes.
''No,'' The former gladiator denied, quickly a fireball erupted from in his right hand, ''I mean that they followed us ever since we entered.'' He threw it at the north-western direction, hitting nearby the stone tablet and hearing a yelp not two meters away. ''Pathetic... I know you are there, I can hear your hearts and smell your fear.''
''Monster...''
Taking a quick breath, Igneous jabbed to the right and a stream of fire flew out of his fist, obliterating the shriveled wood. A body rumbled from the covers, effeminate by the build, but since it was still a young adolescent one couldn't be too sure.
Sighing and starting the breathing process again to balance the loss, Igneous tried once more, ''This is not a fucking game. And even if it were, you are all very much bad at hide and seek.''
Iona was surprised at the new way he showed the mastery over the fire element. He didn't even use any incantation, it was just a pure thought that forced the flames to sprang from his fist. That kind of control was not unheard of, but to have someone as young as him casually bending fire like that was unheard of. When exactly did he find time to practice that?
Taking a second thought, she stoved those unnecessary thoughts for now, there was the main reason she even considered to come here, she will see this through, that's what she promised herself. ''You can come out, we mean you no harm! If you are not looking to fight, then we will not pursue it either!'' She exclaimed loudly to see what reaction they will show. Speaking of reaction, ''Why did you do that?!'' She leaned closer to whisper in the red-headed man's ear, knowing that even with lowered volume he'd feel discomfort.
True to that fact, Igneous worked his jaw in annoyance, ''I didn't kill anyone if that is what you're implying. It was just a warning meant to scare them.'' He rolled his eyes and spun to throw another jab, lighter this time, the wisp of flames went just between Iona and Vidia and right near the legs of the cloaked person with a hidden knife.
Said person recoiled as if actually struck by fire, and in the meantime lost the balance landing hard on their behind.
''Igneous...'' Iona started with indignation.
''Iona...'' He mimicked her tone in slight frustration, ''I missed on purpose just like the last two times.'' Not breaking his focus, he punched the air with a left this time in order to prevent the assailant escaping. Not giving him a moment pause, he rushed past the girls and straight to his new target, as expected the weapon was swung at him, the blade strangely glistening more than a simple metal alloy in the light of his flames, ''Poison.'' He concluded, but it won't change anything.
The move itself was flawed, his opponent overreaching, in such close proximity, the next move is to stab, which Igneous prevented by taking hold of the wrist, whatever damage to his own skin was prevented by his vambrace. He punched the smaller person in the liver twice, feeling their weight unable to be supported by the legs after such damage he swiftly kicked them under, bringing him to the ground face first, the wrist still in his hold, he began to twist and the man try as he might couldn't but not squirm under the painful ministration.
Scoffing at the feeble sight, he disposed of the small blade, and brought the man roughly up by his head, the mask slipping in the process to reveal a familiar face. One they have seen just a couple of hours ago.
''Theramenes?'' Iona gasped, her fears slowly but surely coming true. Was he really going to attempt at life of an unarmed woman and child?
Said man clenched his face in distaste, but before he could speak he was met with ground again, not hard enough to do any serious damage, but still largely uncomfortable for any decent person. ''If you try anything I will make this pain increase by tenfold... And so goes for the rest of you little cretins! Try this shit again and he dies!'' He knew that it had an effect on them, his suspicion all but confirmed that the rest of the helpers are teens, former servants and such.
''I think he understands,'' Iona, ever the bleeding heart, crouched a dangerous distance, ''At least let him talk.''
He gave her a warning glare, but she was stubborn, ''Did you by chance forget what this man just tried to do? And of what he helped create in the first place?''
She was very much aware, but getting caught in this discussion with him would benefit no one but the other side, ''Quite, and I believe he is subdued enough not to bring us any harm. I also believe, that I will be better suited for the parts concerning diplomacy.''
''Diplomacy? Woman, what kind of a...'' He started but upon seeing the imploring gaze she was giving him, he couldn't for the life of him make heads or tails on what prompted him to comply. It wasn't her ability for one. ''Alright, but do not set your hopes too high.'' He relaxed his left hand to lift Theramenes's face, who promptly spat dust and dirt from being held in such position.
The man tried to gain his bearings, and upon seeing the other Colchis brat looking down on him with that soul-wrenching look, he immediately scowled and did his best not to look at her face.
Iona too, gathered whatever courage she could in such dreary environment and after an exhausting half of the day, ''Theramenes, I do not hold it against you, but all I ask is that you be honest with me. Tell me, are you really the ones responsible for all this?''
He didn't answer at first, choosing to glare at an unspecified spot at her feet but was forcefully yanked by hair by that Crypteian freak, he couldn't look anywhere but her face now.
''Answer her.''
The brute demanded, applying no small amount of additional pressure to his hand, Theramenes believed that anymore and it would actually snap under the strain, but he did his best to keep his wits and not cry like a wounded puppy. ''Fine,'' He spat for real, unfortunately it didn't find its mark, but he scowled nonetheless, ''You want honesty? Yes, we did it. We! A bunch of slaves, beggars, and flea-bitten paupers!''
Iona really took all of her resolve not to look away at him. At the hurt, the rage, the festering sorrow that he must have felt underneath, like the rest of the enslaved countryman who shared similar fate. It was all laid barren for her, and for the first time ever, she saw the truth. It was always there, but where her other colleagues and comrades on the mountains managed to suppress and hide their feelings under the guise of security this was in fact the first time she could ever speak in such way with another and not be dissuaded by fake smiles, or distracting words.
Life was just not that much easier even in Crypteia, a constant work and a community, tightly joined but showing visible cracks here and there.
But that was not something she could change, so taking a deep breath, and well prepared for the potential lashing she's about to receive, she posed one simple question, ''Why?''
The reaction wasn't immediate, Theramenes looked like he'd been stabbed in the gut and someone was twisting the blade just for sheer enjoyment, ''Why? You want 'why'?'' He croaked at first, ''How about all the lives taken... How about all the suffering we were made to endure and still endure to this day! And how about being stripped of any manner of dignity, kindness, treated like common filth to be frowned upon, no better than fucking vermin on the streets?!'' He was panting by now, his face turning slowly from pink to red, ''You of all should know that, Princess of Colchis! You were banished never to see home again, your lands sacked and burned for their fucking amusement! And you dare ask me 'why'?!''
''Raising the dead from their rightful rest isn't the solution!'' Taken by zeal and belief he put into those words, for he truly believed them, she needed to counter with equal fire. ''There are other ways of restoring our place!''
Not taken aback, he countered further, ''What ways? Yours?! Don't make me laugh, girl! All you do is hide behind those rocks and even have a gall to covet with fucking Bellatorians from shadows! To what end, do you think that someday they come to accept you and return what was taken? I have seen their temper, their ambition and greed knows no bounds!''
''That is...''
He didn't let her finish, with an ugly sneer he interjected, ''This idea with the dead... It's fucking poetic! Taken down by their own and those they trampled on like trash, for that is end justice they deserve!''
''And the children?''
He blinked, throat feeling parched from the shouting match, ''What?''
She lowered her eyes solemnly, ''What of the children, the babes who have yet to walk? Their mothers and those infirm or not even strong enough to lift a weapon or even comprehend the meaning of war?''
Theramenes clenched his eyes shut, shaking his head in vain in Igneous's unrelenting hold, ''I cannot speak for them, but ask yourself this; would they show you the same courtesy of mercy?''
On that, Iona truly had no real answer. Would they, really? Even if logic dictated to impartial judgement on the matter, she knew there was truth there. People could be wicked, they could betray you, lie to you, stab you in the back, all those things she knew from her family. But there was also capacity for love, understanding and compassion. Just a small act can bring a smile to someone's face, or joy in their lives. Like when she cured the child with the breathing problem or splinted the older woman's injured leg.
Yet still, Iona knew deep within her that to this answer, there was no real answer.
''You might be just right...'' She whispered so softly, so sadly, when standing up, though she was sure Igneous heard it but didn't comment on it. ''I truly am sorry the fate that has befallen you, and the rest of you!'' She indicated to the now more pronounced forms peeking from their hidden spots. ''But I cannot for the life of me allow this to carry on, be they my enemy or not, I know deep down that this is not right.''
Theramenes just exhaled slowly, slightly disappointed but not quite surprised either, ''Then you are a bigger fool than I thought.''
Her lips pulled back just a bit to make a beginning of a guilty smile, ''Perhaps it is so... Can you stand him up, Igneous?'' The flame wielder was a bit put off by request, but relented, the position was getting uncomfortable even for him, ''I'm afraid that I must ask you more of this plan of yours... I must know how you did it.''
Theramenes looked insulted that she thought he would just blabber something like that out to her of all people, yes having a debate on moral of their actions was strangely lifting, but getting into the finer details of it was never on the table for him. ''Do as you want, you won't find anything more from me, mágissa?''
Igneous snorted from behind at the false bravado the man tried to project as he could feel every nerve of his was so worked up it might actually catch fire. ''Mágissa?'' He queried.
''A very old term for evil sorceress.'' Even if originally had the exact opposite meaning, but Iona found herself not caring enough to let the derogatory word affect her, ''It's quite alright, if anything this entire ordeal made me grasp on some of my own personal conflicts.'' Her eyes started to glow it made her look more eerie in the dim light, ''Apologies, but I really need your knowledge on this...''
Now the captured man started to sweat on the double, what in Gods did she plan to do to him?! He started to feel off about in his head, like his thoughts were being rearranged by someone else's will.
''Tell me, my good man, every-...''
''By the Gods, I was wondering what took you so long!''
The sudden jovial voice spreading through the field had them all startled, breaking Iona's focus and Theramenes who visibly sagged in relief.
''Teacher...'' She stated dispassionately, surprising even herself how much the man has fallen from her good grace from the man who would share knowledge with her and anyone interested in the medicinal pursuits.
''Now what we have here? Hmm, a little girl and a slave, unexpected... Ah, and my too early departing guests! Welcome, welcome again! I know the accommodations are even sparser than before, but I would not suggest using the earth beddings, you never know if they might be occupied!''
Igneous and Iona shared an exasperated look, maybe finally starting to realize Laertes's distaste for the eccentric old man. Vidia on the other hand was getting paler by second and scuttled closer to her two mostly sane temporary companions.
''What kind of a response is that? Love it, hate it, say something at least, the silence treatment is never a good sign!''
This coming from a medicus. Iona, turned to the source, but found he wasn't in sight, and since the sound was so evenly distributed, he was probably using some manner of voice enhancement or a portable message carrier, though she leaned to the former more.
''Teacher, no... Darrhon, show yourself or we will be forced to act. After coming all the way here, you have no where else to go. Please surrender!''
''... Hmm, that is a very un-Iona tone I am hearing. Maybe my ears are finally growing bad... Is that you down there Idyia? Finally took the liberty of dirtying your hands?''
Swallowing her fraying nerves, Iona stepped up, channeling a small amount of ether's energy to her throat, ''It is I, Darrhon! And I come here by my own volition! You have but one chance, end this madness, and come with us! I promise your side would be listened and treated fairly!''
''They do grow up fast under tension...'' The old man thought from his spot near the largest mausoleum of the city's founders. ''Iona, child, I think that we are far removed from having a peaceful resolution. Your fiery friend is well aware of that, or else he wouldn't even be here... But I am at least reasonable man, I won't ask you to join my cause because I know for certain of your answer, so hear my proposal; stand aside and let it be done. As a favor and for the years of serving under Crypteia's protection once, I will allow you safe passage.''
''We refuse!''
That kind of an instant answer could have only come from one source, the young man was full of spirit after all. He entertained the thought for a second, but why not indulge in the rare moment, it wasn't every day you get to meet two opposing sides and have a pleasant discussion. Current circumstances notwithstanding, of course.
''Haha! Nothing less from the Fourth Pillar of Calamity!'' The confusion in the air was palpable, it was like a sweet nectar to his tired body that he couldn't help himself but prolong the inevitable if just for a tad bit more, ''Oh my, I see they didn't even bother with details on that, did they? Such under-performing teachers truly... We have to remedy that right now! You are well aware that organisation lies on the foundations of lies, spilled blood, and human sacrifice. 'To be a part of it is to walk alongside death, such is the life of a mage'; is what they keep restating over and over until it nests inside your head. But what not many know is that it owes its reputation not by mages scholars or warriors... No, what makes them truly terrifying is their command of the walking disasters such as yourself, Igneous! You are their investment, the greatest weapon one can make with a combination of magical and combative! Did you know that –?''
Any further rant he might have delved into was interrupted by the walls of the tomb bursting in an explosion of flames and incandescent rocky slabs.
''You talk too much, old man.'' From the still burning flames, Igneous emerged, looking no worse to wear, the glow of fire around his frame would have sent any normal men into sweating and stammering mess, but this one did not by any means fall under the qualification of normal, and that in Igneous's mind is what made him dangerous. ''Gratitude for that information though, now I know what subject to broach next I meet them again.''
Not perturbed in the least, Darrhon gave exaggerated bow, still holding to his staff, now embedded with a series of simmering poisonous-violet gems. ''Just doing my duty as the medicus and a teacher,'' He said bemusedly, not reacting to how the towering man reached to grab him, ''What makes you so sure you'll see them again?'' He finished in a dead serious tone, all mirth evaporating from his eyes.
Igneous barely had the time to react, as his fire was all but snuffed out and a second presence in the room he somehow failed to detect made to put him in a choke-hold. Buying himself time by pressing down his neck, he smashed a flaming elbow in their side, and the hand around his neck relented for a moment enough to have him turn, but his eyes widened as he was grabbed by shoulders and roughly pushed back around, the last thing he saw was a hot-glowing pair of hands that connected with each other.
*BOOM!*
Darrhon stepped out of the new passage, waving his hand to get the smoke to clear, ''Now I know how food in the oven feels, um, let us never do this again.'' He spied a still smoking form of Igneous rising to his feet, fury written all over his visage. ''I can feel the very heath all the way here, heh, as expected from the one Twice Blessed by the Sol.'' The figure, wearing a light version of armor with engravings of the shining sun along with a dark hood, shifted uncomfortably, prompting Darrhon to slam his staff in the ground to make them still. ''You know what must be done, this is your chance right there, entertain to your heart's content and do not let them disturb the ritual.''
He didn't wait for reply, as he withdrew himself behind the mausoleum, going further and letting the darkness reach its grasp and envelop him fully.
Igneous shook the ringing in his head partially lessening, ''What was that?'' He thought in confusion, his new vision apparently playing tricks on him, because it was like two persons in one? That didn't make the least bit of sense. ''Who are you... No, what are you?'' He directed at the still darkened face, who didn't budge from his spot yet.
''Igneous!''
Not taking his eyes off his new adversary, he held out an arm to stop Iona from coming closer, ''Stay back, this one is different than the rest!''
She stopped just a shy three meters from him, expression puzzled, ''Different how? Another recently revived, and what happened with Teacher?''
The hood tilted its head, as if studying them, it made Igneous all the more unnerved, ''He retreated for now, and to reach him is to pass through this one. Do not interfere, he has control over flames I have never seen.''
''Hold, what do you-...?'' She didn't get to finish as Igneous dashed toward his opponent, fists alight. ''Damn that man!''
''I'm still not sure what the range of his powers are...'' Igneous strike was blocked, clenching his right fist now, he gave his opponent's jaw a fire powered overhead knocking him back, but the person managed to find the footing at the last moment. Not breaking his assault, the red-head followed with another strike to the now raised guard, pausing any advance. This one was truly stronger, and definitely had a proper training in unarmed combat.
Tired of being on defensive, the hooded one relented back slightly, letting Igneous through his guard, and shifted his pivot at the precise moment to have him land on a stomach breaking knee strike. Igneous grunted once, losing air. The victory was short lived as Igneous showed a satisfied smirk, his left arm finding the right angle to hook under the said knee, and with his right he grabbed a fistful of his back clothes building a momentum.
The hooded man was slammed in the wall right next to the hole previously made by the same person who threw him there. The force even cracked the stone under him, but he strangely showed no discomfort. ''Not enough...'' He rasped out until a hand grabbed his cranium, and thrice he was bashed under the unforgiving stone before he heard the other man take deep breath.
''Then try this.'' Igneous growled releasing the build-up fire in the deadly explosion.
FIRE DRAGON'S GRIP STRIKE: TERNI!
Upon finishing the third strike, the entire stone building was engulfed by flames, the leftmost side completely destroyed. Igneous wasn't sure, but it seemed that three times was the limit on how much he could stoke the force of the flames and release it. Otherwise it might have blew up his entire arm.
''Interesting magic you have there...'' Igneous's eyes widened at the sound, the flames started dissipating at the rapid rate, showing an figure with singed clothes, his hood finally gone and showing his face. He had an ashen bright hair, and his sclera were dark, unlike the most humans, but he could definitely make out the pale blue in the iris. That strong jaw and the way his cheekbones pronounced the calm smile and squared the face... He has most definitely seen it somewhere, not the ludus or on Bellatorians, but more familiar...
''That is not possible...'' Igneous seethed, stopping with any attempt to identify the person, what really had him riled up was that his fire obeying the will of another. Small wisps coiled around the outstretched fingers, and did that smile on the smug bastard's face piss him off even more. ''Who in hell are you?!'' All he received in response was careless chuckle.
''Ah-ha-ha-ha! You are quick to temper, and possess quite an ardent spirit... I like it, it reminds me of old times! Ah-ha-ha-ha!''
''Don't fuck with me!'' Igneous shouted, sending a torrent of flames that was cut in half of all things!
''Ah-ha-ha-ha!'' The stranger laughed once more, his hand brought down in a clear chopping motion, he spoke through the fire again, ''I'm not certain how that could even work... I'm dead after all! Ah-ha-ha...!'' He was forced to jump back in order to avoid a fearsome stomp which crushed the ground, giving it a nice indent.
Igneous paused suddenly, undiging his foot, to regard the ridiculously laughing lunatic. Unlike all the rest he encountered, this one obviously had reason and a clear consciousness, however much was debatable yet he knew what state he was in. What made him so different from the others then? Did Darrhon possibly do anything to this particular corpse? And he still wasn't clear on the mixed signal he was currently receiving.
''Igneous!''
''Oh great,'' He thought sarcastically, of all the times to stop listening to him, ''I told you to stay back, Iona. Protect yourself and the others until I finish this one.''
''You said he uses fire related magic! Use that brain for once, it's clearly a distraction to force us to... to... uh?''
Sighing in frustration, he against his better judgement took his eyes off the man to speak directly to the girl, ''I know that! Don't you think it – What is wrong with you?'' He interjected upon her shocked expression, she wasn't even paying attention to him, but to the that bastard. Mildly insulted, he swiveled to give him a piece of his mind until a single uttered sentence had him almost lose all balance.
''Fa-Father...?''
The needle could've dropped at any moment and it would make more noise.
''...''
What in the actual Gods fucking world made him not draw the lines sooner? That the person whose name rarely was spoken in Crypteia, but from all the times he came face to face with his twin, whose face had seen better days, it was an unbelievable cruel twist of fate.
Facing Castor Colchis, the Fallen Bearer, Idyia's eldest son in the presence of his daughter was definitely not how Igneous expected the day to turn out. And they weren't even halfway through.
XxX
In retrospect, this day was supposed to be about him making another tedious weekly rounds. Even since the war, Octavius Aurelius was starting to get disenchanted with the boring life. Finally moving more inland, where he could protect the true borders of the Motherland seemed like a good choice back then.
Sadly, it turned out to be not so different than the last one. There were little to no action, and although he has made good with his newly acquired position of Tribune, forged bonds with soldiers, met new faces, in the end it was about as drab as starring at the unmoving sky. He honestly envied them, the men still far from grasp of Republic, on the frontier unbound by the ennui of everyday life, always up to something new. Be it a problem, a stirring among plebs, or even a surprise attack.
Artorigus, the younger, had the entirety of Galian coast to defend from raiders attacks, although in the exchange of letters with his peer, he was noted that they were becoming less and less frequent. An odd development, surely requiring further thought.
Cicero, again the younger, along with Metellus, and those two pompous assholes Cassius and Calvus had the honor of working Hellenia Magna to the rightful and lawful leadership of the Republic through whatever transition they seemed fit.
And hell, he'd even trade this place for a hotter climate of Nubian plains with that commoner Strabo!
All of them lead such exciting lives of having to deal with the unknown that was always lurking in the corner, Octavius was truly envious. So much that in sparse moments of private time he'd send gifts and an occasional prayer to the patron god Quirinus to send him something, anything to relieve this boredom.
As it appeared, his prayers were answered when he received warnings and reports of a possibility of a rebelled slaves off all things making a pass through his region. Finally with the excuse to leave the suffocating confines of the Villa with his son, an aspiring soldier, and spend more times in preparation. Of course he kept everything at the exact level of alert just not to upset the general population, it would do him no good to cause a mass panic. The backlash in the economy would be terrifying and would mean tons upon dozens of requests he'd personally have to attend to. It was always easier in the army, always.
Imagine his surprise when on a seemingly another day without action, he received a discreet call to the camp. Making up whatever excuse to attend a personal matters, and a story of things requiring the touch of man, he gave his wife and daughter free reign for the rest of the day. And even the ride with the expectations couldn't keep his ever beating heart trying to do back-flips in his chest a measure of peace. The fact that it was an infestation problem, as they used to call any magical related predicaments back in the day, thank Gods for Brick his loyal centurion, he'll have a field day just a little before retiring.
Of course, that wasn't to say he hasn't been absolutely revolted at the state they had one of his men bound. The sickness, an incurable one at that. There was only one logical solution, and yet again thank Gods for Ubriculius and his quick thinking. The Black Salt, seemingly a byproduct that came along with deposits of regular salt in the mines, and one of the primary weapons when fighting against mages. The thing made them absolutely frightened to death, and screaming even worse when a carefully blade coated wound was struck.
As it happened, it was enough to give the suffering young man peace. For he has served his country and shall be free in the afterlife.
But the question was, what to do now? As it stands, this couldn't have been an isolated incident, for there were suddenly reports of graves being opened and the dead, or whatever one could call such monstrosity and degrading of human life, started to pop up on multiple locations. But he didn't let it overwhelm him, yes, this is exactly what he was looking for, and as well-oiled gears, the Bellatorian army will have a proper response to give.
The one unfortunate thing that didn't help the situation was the ever worsening weather, it looked as if might pour from the clouds, but for some reason Jupiter held them tight. He had to spend an entire hour of assuring the priests and stout worshipers that it was in no way wrath of the Gods ready to descend, or rather upraise at them. What a truly bothersome lot of sycophants they were, he personally had to establish them to return to praying and give some manner of offering or he'd have them whipped and send out of camp without escort.
The only thing that would make this day is Pluto belching monsters from under their feet.
''I should not have fucking tempted fate...''
Actual dogs made of the darkest color and glowing only from crevices, as if plucked from the children's bedtime stories. Forget all his peer and their greasing up the conquered nations, he'd have his own story of mythical proportions to tell one day and laugh at their faces. Provided he could find a decent trophy and make sure it stays dead.
''Tribune!''
He was cut from his immediate thoughts as Brick descended from his horse for his spatha to find place in the creeping dog's skull. The hellish creature wiggled and produced something that could only be choking noise, before falling on the ground and starting to burn out like timber. So much for keeping trophies.
''Gratitude centurion!'' He exclaimed, clad in his own battle regalia, his own weapons at the ready.
Brick showed no signs he appreciated it, as he hastily stomped parts of his cloak that cought fire. ''Save gratitudes for later... And keep vigil.''
Octavius rolled his eyes at the concern, it's like when he was a boy, ''If this is what you meant back then that lessons never end, I would have never taken you seriously.''
Brick snorted, ''If I could turn the sun back, I would have socked my younger self...'' He clicked his tongue, a playful note taking, ''Also, if anything happens to you on my last tour, your father would have me stripped of pension.''
It was the Tribune's turn to smile, ''He would do more I imagine, stripped and thrown to the animals with spread cheeks.'' Not that Severus Aurelius had no humor when it came to it, but he earned his reputation by not so gentle treatment with those who overstep bounds with his family.
''That was the last of them,'' The younger Decurion made his report, ''For now, yet we were unable to determine if this was an organized attempt or merely a way to have us lose sight.''
Octavius crossed his arms in front of the hastily drawn map of the town, small black pebbles marked the places most sightings occurred, and those shaped like helmets on how many troops he had take certain routes to prevent this chaos from spreading. ''Very well, have the fort send a fresh group to relieve those injured, and I want once more our supply of Black Salt counted and evenly distributed. We will not fail because we were ill-prepared.''
With a hand clanking against his armor, the soldier went to do as he was ordered.
Eyes once more to the chart, the Tribune turned to his trusted soldier and an old mentor, ''What do you make of this, Brick? Any insight on where the source of this might have occurred?''
Still in full gear, the older veteran shook his head, ''None more so than you...''
''You pause?'' It didn't slip by his ears, years of knowing the man let him the privilege of knowing when there was more he might not be saying. ''Speak your mind, old friend, you know I value your council.''
The Centurion hesitated some more, before finally his weary bones relented, leaning heavily against the improvised desk that creaked under the added weight he pointed at the specific point above the town. ''We have yet to receive any significant reports from around this area...''
''Yes, the distance...''
''... Like shit it's just distance,'' He snapped, not unusual and he didn't stop there, ''Even if they had been prevented, by whatever means, we should have at least received something. Anything. At this point, and in this entire setting, I fear to even so much as think of the consequences.''
Octavius took it in stride, he was of course familiar with this side of him, freeing a hand, he grabbed the stout man's shoulder, ''I know you care for those men out there, most of them have not seen what we have. I will send a small party of two to scout, if only to put that old head of yours at ease.''
The last part was as much as a joke as it was a serious consideration, and Brick couldn't be more proud of the man. He will make a great Senator someday.
''Now, let us-...''
''AAGGGHHHH!''
Both heads snapped toward the exit of the tent, ''What in Gods'...''
Brick unsheathed his sword, ''Is it too much if I ask you to stay here?''
Hastily strapping his helmet, Octavius repeated the same action, ''I thought you knew me better by now.''
The wrinkled face gave a smile, ''I do, that is why I asked.''
They barely made two steps out of the tent when Brick threw an arm to stop Octavius, something fell and hit the ground hard. It managed to make both battle-hardened men jump back to avoid the shock. Taking a closer look, it was revealed that it was a big ball of actual burning flesh and bones.
Octavius vomited from the stench, and Brick was fairing no better. As if the nightmare wasn't rewarding enough, a series of flapping sound were heard, more like when clothes are dried in the wild wind.
''Freshhhh... Thhhis ones are...''
The world around them, the sound were seemingly pulled from under the dome of airless darkness, leaving only the toxic pressure that began to crush their ears. Octavius braved a look, and right as from the fucking fantasy stood a creature; Skin of disgusting shade of smoked pink or red, a pair of yellow eyes, a tail and leathery appendages that anything mortal could not resemble if it tried their best. Bats came to mind, but he has thought that comparing to them it would be an insult.
''Sssisterss, we have feassst!''
It gave an ear-piercing screech and unfurled a six wings from the body, diving to them at great speed, if it weren't for Brick's shield, they would not be barely breathing.
''Litttle moussse! Ssstrip pessky metal from bonesssss!''
Making an overhead flip, the monster-bird made another attempt, her claws like eagle stretched to catch the namesake she used on them, like a little helpless rodent in the field.
Octavius's brain only had the time to send a prayer for the safety of his family as he tried, even with a limp hand to raise the sword in one final desperate attempt, his legs giving out under him. Right on the ground he was sent as the literal tempest blew over the whole camp area knocking almost everything to the ground. The bird-thing screeched again, this time in indignation as it lost its bearing and was forced to ground.
It reared its ugly vulture-like head to stare at whatever might have caused it to lose flight and found a lone approaching figure, the grey cloak as if having a will on its own, fluttered about the man's shoulders. ''Magic, ratsss! Won't sssave you!''
The man propped his hand and in one quick motion, a compressed air slammed into the monster, and it didn't stop for at least twenty meters, the now wide-eyed creature, lying in the pool of its guts.
''Noooo! Sisssterr!''
The two others who were clutching the tent and the meat-pile stood up, hastily trying to ascend, furious at the loss of their sibling.
Hector cared nothing for it, as he focused on the left, ''Tear the sails and rend asunder,'' He chanted, his eyes glowing ghastly grey.
ANEMOI: EURUS!
The spear of wind hit the target, but unlike the last one, it failed to directly pierce the center where he was originally aiming. Even with the half ruined and trying to flail towards him in a desperate suicide attempt, Hector stood his ground, Bringing his hand down like a hammer.
The explosion of metal and bones was heard as the infernal Furiae was being crushed by the sheer relentless pressure of the most aggressive winds Hector called upon.
Letting out a sigh of relief, the Crypteian man, straightened up, walking to the dazed Centurion and his Tribune who didn't look like he figure out if he was in a dreamland or not. A nap sounded nice, but Hector digressed, there was a time and place for such things, and this was neither the most comfortable or the best looking one.
''Greetings,'' He started calmly, nothing like a reassuring tone to make them sober, ''In the name of my people we would like to formally ask to provide help with this trouble that found... Hm, what is it?'' He stopped his tirade as the downed man in the flashier armor pointed with a shaky finger at something behind him, turning around Hector stared blankly at the descending maw of rotten teeth.
The head fell with a wet sound and the dripping blood sprayed the present. Another thud and the rest of the body soon followed after.
''...'' All Hector could do was send the other person presently responsible an annoyed glare. Now he was dirty, smelling of blood and completely unpresentable. How was he supposed to make an impression looking like he'd just gotten straight out of a butcher shop?
''...'' The challengingly raised eyebrow behind the green camouflage tunic, short cloak and leathery wrapped leggings completed with the face mask of the same color is the only thing Hector's savior had to say.
Not like she could say anything more. ''It just had to be the menacing quiet one...'' He groaned internally, using his hands to try and save as much dignity, though not likely, before trying to establish a working relationship with the magic-hating idiots. Again. Troublesome.
''Damn you, Galatea.'' It was a bad day to be him.
Man did this take sleep out of me or what. But, I prevailed, and proudly present you chapter number 19! Huh, I'm also sure there must be a punchline here, but am too tired to look for it...
Anyways, more new characters keep poping up, things are getting heated up, woah! Natsu/Igneous is gonna have one helluva time next chapter. Seriously, how many of you got into a fight with the father's of your friends? And in front of said friends at that?! Like, damn!
As for Ganicus, he'll need a lot of soul-searching after the events, poor dude, he really gave his all.
I really, really love how Hector tries to be cool but the world just doesn't let him do his thing.
That'd be all good readers, enjoy, read, have a snack while you're at it, drop a review or PM... Or why not all? See ya next chapter, axel's out for now!