Episode 8: The Dragon and The Phoenix
So, who's it gonna beeeeee?
The one that you only neeeeeeddddd
I gave it all, and all you gave was sweet misery
Flashback: Ancient Greece Era, Parallel Universe to Suiei!Timeline of Gen 1.0 Earth
If you remember in Gen 1's earliest stories including "Memories of the Sea" and "The Last Legend", there were scenes based on historic figures. This is a parallel universe to those ancient stories with some "What if's".
REVISIT THE PAST…
…IN A PARALLEL UNIVERSE!
THE CREATION AND EXPANSION OF DARK MIRROR MYTHOLOGY AND ITS HISTORIC PAST ARE UNVEILED AT LAST!
Long ago…in a city filled of civilization, arts, and warriors mighty and proud, stood the great city of Macedonia. Today was a very special day as a newborn was revealed to the citizens for a christening at the region of Pella.
Olympias was dressed in robes of white, blue, and gray while her husband wore in gold, red and white. The crowds roar in applause for their new king.
"His name…shall be Alexander…for the defender of mankind will become king," Olympias announced.
And somewhere in the crowd, the five Suiei Gods, disguised in human forms watched the celebration happening around them. Their existence as "water" in nature allowed them to see the entire world under their own wishes. But now, after eons of remaining in the shadows, they decided to don human forms and see what the species were about.
"So, let me get this straight, this little human is called a baby?" asked Matsuoka, "I…don't understand why everyone is so in awe."
"Well maybe it's a big deal or something…remember back in the eastern countries? When a baby was born, people would celebrate its birth," said Ryugazaki, "More so, it's that child that we just discussed about."
"So it appears," answered Hazuki, "Well then, let's go join then and meet new people!"
"I'm on it!" laughed Tachibana, "Let's go!"
"Well wait a minute," said Nanase, "We don't know much about these people. We can't just barge in. More so…we can't reveal our existence."
"Stay if you wish Nanase," replied Hazuki, "But maybe we might learn something or two."
With a shrug, he joined the others as they went through the crowds, reaching to the palace where they were stopped by the guards. King Philip II saw this and told them to let them in.
"Let them in," said Philip, "They can stay at our garden area."
The guards nodded and escorted the men to the palace entrance. The nurse walked up to Philip and said, "You got travelers here I see."
"Yes," he answered, "See to that my wife is okay though."
"The baby prince fell asleep actually, so we must be careful on how much racket we make," she replied.
"Very well," said Philip, "Let's take a walk through the family garden then. See to our visitors have room and food."
The five Suiei Gods walked with Philip as they each contributed a story about their travels from the world, fascinating the human as he declared his dreams about his son becoming a king. The gods looked at each other in certain worry as they recalled a phenomenon called wars where people take over lands and other horrible things to cause a change of the balance of nature.
"So, what benefit does it have for your son to take the world?" asked Nanase.
"For centuries, our people have suffered a plague with nature…of the other side," Philip said.
"From the other side?" Hazuki looked fascinated.
"…this plague results in people being feasted upon by the monsters…the Elder Bairns," he revealed.
"Elder Bairns?" Matsuoka asked.
"They feast on humans?" Tachibana started to get nervous.
"Only when the Shrovetide happens; a season when humans are preyed upon. Our ancestors have made this covenant of the Shrovetide to allow the monsters feast on a percentage of our kind in return they will let the survivors grow and populate for hundreds of years," Philip explained.
"That doesn't sound beautiful," Ryugazaki looked at him.
"It is horrific indeed," Philip answered, "But we humans are weak in comparison and a prophecy has stated that someone out of the shadows will finally put an end to the covenant."
"Put an end…?" Nanase looked at him.
"We believe our son will finally end the curse between the humans and the Elder Bairns, that is why he must take the world to his own hands," Philip answered, "By destroying the curse, the Elder Bairns will lose their source of food and become extinct."
"I would like to see the baby," Nanase stated, "If he's awake."
"He's currently asleep right now – I cannot take you to him. However, I should bring you all to your rooms," Philip replied.
Hours Later:
Matsuoka walked over through the marble halls to find Nanase and Tachibana but only found the latter talking with Hauzki and Ryugazaki.
"Where did he go?" Matsuoka asked as he tied up his long hair.
"He needed a minute," Hazuki shrugged.
The other god sighed before leaning over on one of the pillars, "Do you think Philip is right? Are these monsters even real?"
"Well certainly we have never seen them before in all of our time on this world," Ryugazaki shrugged.
"Unless it's made by someone or something that could be…evil?" Hazuki suggested.
"I honestly don't trust the human race," Matsuoka commented, "I feel like they try to be many steps ahead of nature."
"You know…speaking of…I had a dream the other night in the ocean," Tachibana replied.
"A dream?" Hazuki looked at him.
"…I met someone who almost looks like me but with shorter hair and is in the form of those humans. It was as if he needed comfort…from something," the other god said.
"That's impossible…we are just gods of the nature in this world," Ryugazaki looked a bit stunned.
"I have a feeling…our stories are just the beginning," Tachibana answered.
"Hahahaha! You think we will become like them?!" Hazuki laughed, "That's totally absurd!"
Nanase made his way to the master grand bedroom where the baby was sleeping. He couldn't bear but to go to him alone when everyone else was asleep (not that his fellow brothers weren't). When he rested up earlier in the day, he saw a dream that was horrifying and couldn't bear to see it come true for the baby.
He found the baby sleeping in a nest of blankets and cloth of the softest fibers inside a basket. The Suiei God smiled and used his magic to bless the child for safety through the seas of life.
WHOOOOSHHHHHH
Nanase gasped as the world around him changed, showing him what looked like a series of battles followed by a battle between two men with the one looking mostly like the baby being slain to death.
"N-No! I won't allow you to die!" he gasped as he closed his eyes to concentrate on the baby for more protection.
Tachibana, Hazuki, Ryugazaki, and Matsuoka arrived at the scene and combined their powers to Nanase. Despite protesting about going to the baby without consent, it was clear that this Suiei God sensed something…beyond what the world has yet to see.
"We must present him with our gifts…our wishes…" Nanase replied.
"Now is this an appropriate time?!" Matsuoka gasped.
"You know we mustn't stay here!" he argued back.
The five Suiei Gods surrounded the basket as they each extended their arm towards the circle:
"Sweet child, I gift you…with protection," Nanase chanted, "Even if you die…your spirit lives on until you find a new home!"
"Baby Alexander…I bestow you…with beauty," Ryugazaki added, "So that even on your worst days…people will still admire you both outside and inside."
"Dear human, you shall receive my gift of love," Tachibana stated, "That you find the goodness in everyone and can change the world and its future."
"Dearest baby," Hazuki greeted, "May the gift of peace help you establish hope in everywhere you go!"
"My gift for you…little human," Matsuoka chanted, "Is the sharing of my strength to yours…that obstacles will never be an issue for you."
The five Suiei Gods dissolved into the mists, sending their gifts to the baby as it woke up with a crying-like cooing sound, prompting Olympias to wake up and check on him.
In the days that followed, the Suiei Gods continued to enjoy their stay until someone from the shadows watched them and prepared to make their move. To prevent themselves from going extinct, they asked a friend to create five new bodies from humanity to utilize…in the hopes of one day reuniting with this human…
Years Later: Temple of the Nymphs
"And that will be said and done for now," said Aristotle, "We will pick up on our lessons by tomorrow with legendary creatures."
Ptolemy, Hephaistion, and Cassander quickly placed their styluses and wax-covered boards away and walked out while Aristotle asked Alexander to stay behind.
"I hope he's alright," said Ptolemy.
"He's brilliant," agreed Hephaistion, "Maybe it's just some recommendation of some sorts."
Cassander stared out to the sunset, wondering what it would be like to be out in the world ahead.
"Should we just wait for him?" asked Cassander.
"Nah, let him be," said Ptolemy, as they scurried off, "I'm sure he's gonna lecture till it's bedtime."
"Is there something you want to tell me?" asked Alexander as he looked at the wise man.
Aristotle looked out to the evening scenery and replied, "There has been a time…that your father and I were not on the same page of things…"
"The same page?" asked the boy.
"Anybody can become angry – that is easy, but to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the right time, and for the right purpose, and in the right way – that is not within everybody's power…is not easy," quoted the teacher, "Your father has visited the town of Stagira 5 years ago…and destroyed it like a demon."
The boy gasped as he never realized about some stories about his father. He knew that he was a conqueror and what not but…
"You said something previously…that Stagira was your hometown," said Alexander.
"It is…or was," replied Aristotle, "He did give his offering to rebuild the city at the very least…but in return, I was forced to become your teacher."
The boy was keeping silence about this; although he did remember that his father had left the village for a long while but it was never told why or what he did.
"I…I don't know what to say about this…" began the boy, "It's like my father took away your freedom."
But Aristotle smiled and chuckled, replying, "Through discipline comes freedom…my boy, you have yet to see what lies in the future in stored for you. However, I am sure that despite what you see around you, there is a place that will change things for this world."
"But still," replied the boy, "What my father did couldn't be more unforgivable than to take away your happiness!"
"I think it's time that you should know the truth," replied the philosopher as he handed him a copy of a story of the Iliad, "This story will help you understand why mankind is…the way they are."
"I have adored Homer and his works but are you sure…?" began the boy.
"I am sure," he smiled, "You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor. Let this story be your guide. Now off to your military lessons."
Alexander took the story and left the area, wondering what his future would become of him and his family
Olympias stood in the central chamber of a dark cavern with little lights and candles. She knew what was going up on the surface but that didn't matter to her since she was on the same side as the ancient creatures that were feasting on them.
After all, she thought, I am them…Philip is human…the boy is…
Finally, a cloaked figure arrived in the scene and removed its hood, revealing a mask that covered its true face.
"Shadow Mafia…" she muttered, "You are Furtiue, right?"
"I am," he replied, "I see you have grown into loving and caring for your child."
"Oh please, you know that's all just part of the plan," she answered, "When the boy turned 14 he kept complaining to me about visions of blood and death but I kept up the charade and told him to keep getting stronger."
"He is the first…and the last, am I correct?" asked Furtiue.
"Arrhidaeus did not inherit anything from me," she answered, "He was born from a human woman by the same man who I am with. Despite this, he lived with us for a while and the two were getting along quite nicely. However, I managed to get him enrolled at a different city for him to study."
"I see you didn't decide to slaughter and eat him. Anyway, your son isn't the only problem here," said Furtiue, "The Suiei Gods…have you heard of them?"
"I had…they came to our place just after Alexander's birth…" she answered, "Though I didn't suspect them at the time. I am worried that the magic given to him will be formidable against us."
"When the boy turns 16, will he…?" Furtiue asked.
"I don't know," she answered, "But his power is certainly growing and there will be plenty of food and blood to feast on...the Shrovetide."
Alexander traded blows on his sword against his mentor Parmenion as the older fellow was his instructor for combat, military, and conqueror. Philip commissioned him to train his son to become like him when he is set to become the new king of the ancient world. The young man defended the sword's blows but Parmenion pushed him back with force.
"You must not get distracted by your enemy's appearance!" Parmenion lectured, "These monsters do not show mercy and will kill you at the slightest weak point!"
The young kid looked at the instructor and nodded before they concluded the lesson however…
"There is one tip I should tell you…in case you are at a disadvantage," Parmenion added, "When your enemy pins you down and gloats…look into their eyes and their soul to chill them and with your secret blade, strike them."
The prince grunted before getting back on his feet. He was ready for another match, but the mentor waved him off for dismissal.
Next Morning:
Alexander woke up in his bed, recalling the same strange dream for the 100th time. It was always the same, but nothing made sense to him…a dream of water…and light…and various sea animals.
Today, he decided to set forth to find what this dream means. Rumors were said of a soothsayer was in town in for a few days. Keeping himself safe, he snuck out with his sword and dressing up before taking out. Upon finding the location somewhere in the more commoners resided, he walked in.
"Child of royalty, why do you enter such a dangerous time?" a voice asked.
"…I…I have heard tales of your arrival, oh prophet," he replied, "Why do my dreams repeat the same?"
The soothsayer stepped in as she wore an outfit that was far different than that of the Greeks. She wore in kimono-like outfits with a hood covering her face.
"The fabric of space-time has been torn in two…your history should've been the same but someone of great evil beyond has altered your past…your present…and your future. One destination is still the same regardless of the path you take from here," she explained.
"Whose history am I a copy of?" he asked.
"When the time comes, you will know," she replied, "The dream you see is a part of that answer. You are something beyond mankind…be proud of it."
The prince looked up as his vision changed into the same scene from his dream…the five floating god-like beings smiled before him, reaching out to him. Curious, he too resonated with their reaching, hoping to find the answer in his heart…
"You are human, but you are also beyond human," the dark-haired spoke.
"But one day…you will find us…as descendants in the future," the blue-haired added.
"Just who are you!?" the man asked, "Did you come to me when I was a baby?!"
"We were…but betrayed by humans forced us to be reborn into the future," the red-hair spoke, "But we are here in your dreams and by your side…until you meet us again as humans."
"But if the humans betrayed you, why be humans?" he looked at them.
"Not all humans are evil…only those who are driven by fear and hatred," the blond replied, "But when you do find us…you will become something…special."
The dream faded away as Alex woke back up in the soothsayer's place but the figure was gone. However, he could hear loud cries of the villagers as he smell smoke.
Present Day: Judd's Tavern
Alex breathed heavily as his eyes continued to glow eerie red. Verrado sensed the return of a familiar presence merging in his body.
"So…is it working?" Kei asked.
"Indeed, the blood of those Elder Bairns are awakening him…" Verrado explained.
A blast of magic knocked through the front of the building as glasses shattered everywhere. Out of the mist came Ben staring at the mess.
"Well…so you have decided?" Verrado asked.
"Alex's memories as the king may be remembering…but I will not permit you to unleash the Elder Bairns to this city!" he scolded.
"So then…I see you are willing to throw away your family in return to keeping the city safe?" she asked.
"I know your dirty tricks," Ben replied, "You won't get away with what you are about to do to this world!"
"I'm afraid it's already too late," Verrado sneered, "The Shrovetide will soon begin and all those weaklings of mankind will soon be a distant memory."
Ben snapped his fingers to release Kyle, Dodecadron, Rasputin, and Sergi. With a hiss, Verrado and Kei vanished to the shadows.
"What's happened to Alex?!" Kyle tried to get Alex's focus back.
Ben was about to answer but Sergi stepped in, "Kyle…there's more to your husband than what you know of. The two of us…no…our stories before you came into our lives are in this book."
"Then let me see," Kyle replied.
"I'm afraid I cannot reveal more than what you've seen," Sergi answered, "As author, I have sacred rules that I must oblige to. But what I can tell you is that Alex is half-human and half-Elder Bairn."
His eyes widened in horror before looking back to his husband's red eyes. They faded away as he collapsed down to the floor but was caught by Kyle.
"Sandro…please, tell me you're okay!" Kyle answered.
"I…I remember…" he moaned before closing his eyes…
Flashback Continues: The 1st Shrovetide…
Alexander left the soothsayer's hut and gasped in horror to see the people trying to flee the city as monstrous beasts of figures storm through town, trying to feast upon the humans and their inner organs. He readied his sword as a few of them turned to see him and tried to attack.
With a few slashes, the prince made his way back through the city, heading to his family home. His body began to radiate with energy flowing through his veins.
Philip found himself surrounded by several suitors who demanded for Olympias. However, something appeared off about them. One took out a sword and began to attack Philip. He fought back and readied his sword against the crowd of people before them.
Blood splattered and shed all over the hall. Some of them fled to the halls to find Olympias. Without hesitation, he slashed them down.
"No one touches my family!" he shouted as more of them appeared.
Seconds later, a flying-knife bonded by chain stabbed him on his left arm, followed by his right arm and down to both sides of his ankles. With a cry of pain, the suitors pulled him up on the pillars that held the palace.
Olympias herself finally appeared on scene with not a look of fear or terror. Philip's eyes could bear what he was seeing.
Alexander arrived from the front entrance and gasped to see the blood, the bodies, and the scene before him.
"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" Olympias roared as the prince screamed in sync at the horror. The Elder Bairn stabbed the sword through Philip as he cried out in sheer agony. The skies turned dark and rainy with thunder upon this new darkness reborn.
Alexander's eyes turned red crimson as time slowed down between him and the Suitor-looking Elder Bairns. He raced through the gardens, slashing one by one down as the mother watched to see the power rising in here creation. As soon as they were slaughtered, the price pointed his sword at his mother.
"I've waited a long time…son," she greeted, "For you to gain your strength…to be ready."
He slashed out at her, but she vanished into the dark clouds. After using his strength to tear down the pillars, Philip collapsed onto his arms.
"S-son…you must go…i-it's not safe here," he breathed.
"Father! I'm so sorry that I left early this morning!" the young man replied.
But Philip smiled and said, "The whole world awaits a new hero…one who can finally take down the Elder Bairns. Slay them all…save our legacy…end the covenant of our ties to these beasts."
With that, Philip closed his eyes before succumbing to his wounds. Alexander cried out in sheer agony and tears. However, it was not safe to stay in this town as the roaming beasts set ablaze. The prince ran to the stable where the horse Bucephalus neighed loudly in fear of the monsters. He calmed his steed down before leaping onto it and fleeing off, gathering the survivors to the nearby lands…into the unknown…
600 Years Later: Ithaca
A seemingly endless reign takes the world by storm as the king Alexander took several cities in exchange for protection from the Elder Bairns. The Tragedy of Pella and Macedonia became legend as it was said that the mother of the city betrayed the people and out of the shadows, the son rose to power.
The world evolved since then as religious figures and more creatures emerged, setting new challenges to several villages and towns across the realms. The Greeks gave rise to the Romans, starting a new era
A much older and stronger Alexander stabbed his sword on the dirt and slumped on a rock while watching the island of Ithaca at the horizon of the sea. Rumors have said that a mysterious man who ruled there was also a hunter for dangerous things.
Decided to investigate alone, Alexander used his strength of the Elder Bairns to propel himself from where he stood and onto the island, impacting the sands like an explosion.
He readied his sword while venturing to the ruins and roadways that led to a temple of various gods and goddesses, some of which he recognized through the years of his life. From Egypt to the Eastern lands, many cities have evolved through the few hundreds of years since his conquest but the Elder Bairns were always waiting for an opportunity to strike.
"Halt!" a voice said.
Alexander twirled and readied his Kopis Sword at his new enemy as a man stood before him donned in golden-armor with the Xiphos Sword on hand.
"None shall enter this domain…including you…bastard Alexander!" the man answered.
"So, you've heard of me," he replied.
"Well your reputation proceeds you…immortal witch!" the other man growled.
"If you know of me so well then why do you dare to challenge me?" Alexander asked.
"You won't be taking this home!" he snapped.
Alexander laughed before answering, "Now why would I want this land if I know that it has no meaning to it. I only came here to investigate."
"You lie!" the other man replied, "You've taken up so many cities filled with broken promises to protect the humans from those flesh-eating beasts!"
Now it was his turn to frown as Alexander soared up to him and ripped the sword off of his hands while pointing his blade to the stranger.
"Tell me something…if I was an Elder Bairn, would you have slain me?" he asked.
"Of course I would! I fear death!" the man replied.
"Well lucky for you, my half-lineage doesn't make me eat humans like they would," he said.
The other man stared to his golden-yellow eyes before fainting. Alexander gasped and tried to push some life through compressions but stopped to see another young man staring at the scene upon him. With a final push, Alexander woke up the fallen man again.
"Y-you're hurt," he said, noticing the wounds on his back.
The man looked at the king before saying, "Y-you really saved me just now?"
"I smell that boy…is he yours?" Alexander asked.
"Yes…I was wed to my wife Penelope. We were a family for some time, but she one day took off to settle our kingdom's plight and she was…eaten by them," he revealed.
"W-wait…it can't be…you're…." Alexander gasped.
"Yes…I am Odysseus or known as Ulysses by the Roman population…" he revealed his identity as the blonde hair shown itself after his helmet fell off.
"I give you my condolences," the warrior replied while trying to not blush at this beauty before him.
"Papa, are we going to leave soon?" Telemachus asked.
"I promise you," Odysseus replied, "When you turn 18, we will leave."
"You don't intend to stay here?" Alexander asked.
"This island home became nothing more but a burden to the past," Odysseus answered, "But we have no idea where we will go."
"…Come with me," the other man invited, "I may have taken a lot of cities under my reign, but I can help you settle a new and better place. No harm shall come to you from me or my warriors."
Odysseus stared at this man before him, curious to see what would be offered at the table…
Present Day: Judd's Tavern – Shiloh's Apartment (Upper Level)
Kyle rested Alex on top of the lounge sofa while Rasputin utilized his exorcism. However, it didn't work as each attempt forced him to step back.
"Whatever manifests him…it must be a part of his existence," he muttered.
Sergi looked through the pages that were starting to reappear now after Verrado and Kei forcibly shoved the blood in Alex's throat. It was true…he was the former Alexander the Great born from a human and an Elder Bairrn.
Dodecadron sighed while he flipped the channels to the news with reports of increased murders and mysterious killers on the horizon. It was clear that the Elder Bairns were getting more sophisticated with the city environment. Years ago…when the bar was owned by Judd himself, he ran the place with open arms. However, the same kind of death took place occurred when one of them preyed on him.
He sensed more customers arriving to the bar downstairs. Upon arriving, he saw the trio senshi along with four others with them.
"Our team is finally in full circle…almost," Asahi proudly smiled.
"Two of them are in Iwamara waiting for us," Ikuya said, "But once we break this town's curse, we'll head to the village."
"And what about Artemis?" Dodecadron asked.
"…I want to travel and find out who I really am," the graduated student smiled.
Dodecadron softly gasp and wanted to tell him the truth but it was clear that he was not yet awake but his powers were still increasing every moment. Seconds later, he collapsed down to the floor as Artemis gasped and ran up to him.
"I put him a temporary sleep spell," a voice said, "He'll be alright."
The group turned to see the Mahotsukai Ben arriving from the shadows, "I apologize for the scare but Artemis you too need to take a nap."
Before he could cry out, his eyes grew heavy before he slept down on the floor likewise.
"Was that really necessary?" Ikuya asked.
"You two…wanted to know the truth about that name you saw on the list…let me present you…your beloved Alex from that other world," he answered, leading the senshi and Seijuurou upstairs as Rasputin, Sergi, and Kyle were also in the sleeping spell.
Ikuya and Asahi gasped at the sight of Alex but realized that he was much older looking than what they were told.
"You put quite a lot of people to sleep," Kotarou muttered.
"Technically you guys would be asleep too but as Senshi, you must bear the responsibility of being heroes," Ben replied, "Especially now…when the Shrovetide is trying to destroy this entire megacity."
"So, this Alex…is he…" Asahi switched the subject.
"Yes, he is the one who was betrayed on that other timeline…all because of spilt blood from my people who wanted to destroy the original legend of the Suiei Gods."
"You mean…the ones from….?" Ikuya gasped.
"Yes…the Magic Six of the ones in paradise now," Ben revealed, "The witches murdered my child to try and destroy the original legend but then my wife sacrificed her life so their lives may be spared but doing so still caused the two stories to split from each other…creating that other timeline…and all the people in it."
"I thought the story tower no longer exists," Ikuya replied.
"It is destroyed in present time, but it still exists in the past," Ben explained, "The potential for making multiple timelines is still a possibility but as time in many worlds extend forward, the magic is weakening."
"But if this Alex is alive…where is that version of Haruka and the others?" Asahi asked.
"…that I do not know. But it is vital that they must be found and resurrected as a team once more," Ben continued, "Their story is not yet complete and because they are created beings by their original counterparts…they cannot truly die."
"Is this possible…that such a feat can be performed?" Tsubasa asked.
"Reviving the Magic Six…" Isana whispered.
"You believe that resurrecting them will solve whatever the powers may be is out there damaging all things?" Kotarou asked.
Seijuurou lowered down as his head slightly throbbed a bit, making him curious more by the minute. Ben noticed something off about the red-hair but a simple look into his eyes made him realize the truth.
"So…you survived the dark ages as many believed you were dead," Ben noted.
"Huh? Survived the dark ages?" Sei asked, confused.
"You clearly don't remember but I suppose the only way to wake you up…" the Mahotsukai snapped his fingers, bringing a young red-haired girl into scene.
"E-Eh…?!" Suzu looked confused, "W-where the heck…?"
Sei looked at the strange girl before him but when their eyes met…
WHHHOOOOOSSSSSSHHHHHHHH!
The two of them were thrown to the opposite ends of the wall as memories of terror, blood, and darkness returned in their heads. It all sounded like a loud tinnitus in their heads for several moments followed by a rush of adrenaline coursing through them. Both could hear voices echoing around them as if they were reliving in the horrible times…
"T-this place…" Isuzu muttered.
"Born form the shadows…" Seijuurou quietly spoke.
They both looked up and saw each other. Without hesitation, they embraced a reunion hug of joy.
"O-Onii-chan!" she cried out, "It's really you!?"
"Yes…I am back…I remember now…the past!" he answered, "The darkness…the mines…G-Gou…wait."
Tsubasa's eyes looked heavy as he recalled Seijuurou and Gou being a couple back in Idaina Magna. However…
"What's the matter?" Isuzu asked.
"…It's Gou…she…used some magic to send me to another world where I lived as a protector to a prince," he replied, "She spared my life…but…"
"I remember too…she was a bit off about herself during those dark times, but I am sure some miracle happened there," Isuzu answered.
Tsubasa turned way and walked to the bathroom. Seijuurou seemed a bit confused for a moment.
Ben took the book from the sleeping Sergi and handed it over to the siblings as their pages of the book revealed the reign of the Shadow Mafia and the arrival of an alternate team of the Magic Six saving their homeland after 5 years of suffering. From there, the story showed the survivors and even a cured-heart but traumatized Rei living happily on Lynwin-Mu for the rest of their days.
"This book…" Tsubasa began.
"It chronicles all of what has happened since the day that my enemies created it," Ben revealed, "Your universe came about because of what this witch created…a universe of suffering…no more happy endings."
"And what about Momo, is he alive?" Seijuurou asked.
"There is a lot of questions that cannot be answered right now," Ben replied, "But…Momo is fine. You will both see him again soon. We must evacuate the people of Hollywood Heights for safety."
"But we also need to destroy the towers too, right?" Asahi asked.
"Yes, the towers are keys to building a portal that may bring about total disaster to not just Hollywood Heights but to also the rest of Aeuropa City and potentially the entire planet," the Mahotsukai answered.
"But how exactly are we going to do this?" Ikuya asked, "If we break the curse, all those who were inflicted by the witches will die. And if we don't…everyone will die."
"I don't know…but for sure we're not gonna let anymore people die," Ben looked at him.
"Then…what do we do first?" Seijuurou asked.
After a long hour of discussion and planning, they set up a new "Operation" called 'Dissolution' in order to break the Shrovetide. Tsubasa's team was set to go destroy the towers while Ben will wake up the others and find means to get the entire city to evacuate while trying to control Alex's blood condition from the dosage. Asahi and Ikuya were to stay with Artemis, Dodecadron and Rasputin to ensure that no more Elder Bairns appeared. Seijuurou and Isuzu were also set to stay behind in order to not fall into danger.
Tsubasa, Kotarou, and Isana took off in their senshi forms while Ben reawaken the sleepy heads from the spell. However, Alex's behavior was much different thanks to his memories of Alexander the Great.
"I…I have to keep fighting," he uttered.
"No, it's too dangerous!" Ben said, "You and Kyle must stay here."
"But what about our daughters? They're gonna be in danger if we don't find them!"
"I will track them down," he promised, "But you and Alex must stay here."
Alex looked up at him and answered, "A king cannot stay in one place…I must fight off the Elder Bairns like I formerly did. I have to slain them all!"
"The blood is making you think that," Ben replied, "But your persona is still you…a father…a husband…a swimmer too."
"I have to go," he insisted, "My sword!"
Ben was about to argue him but seeing the redness of his eyes return meant that there was no other choice. With a sigh, he called forth on the Dragon Kopis Sword that was lost from the past but it didn't matter to him. Back in his hands, Alex got up and concentrated on where the monsters were going to appear next.
With a familiar place in his mind, he gasped before taking off from the window and jumping out. Kyle rushed over to see him leaping from building to building.
"I can't leave him alone like this," Kyle said, "What if he does something reckless?!"
Back at Joseph and Jordan's place:
Jordan woke up with a gasp before sweating the hell out of his hair. Joseph walked in to the room after cleaning himself up, "Honey, what's the matter?"
"…the past," Jordan replied.
"Huh?" he asked.
Jordan took out his Atlantean crystal as it was pulsing in a strange pattern, "This…when the crystal did this pattern…I remember…it was when our home was confronted by invaders during the tragedy. We were also evacuated into stasis for eons but I remember being in a dream when this happened."
"What are you getting at?" Joseph looked confused.
"Don't you remember? When our child…not Artemis…but..." Jordan trembled.
Joseph remained silent as Jordan continued, "Our blood child who disappeared during the events was never found! I feared for the worst but now…this crystal is pulsing like a heartbeat."
"I-it can't be…" Joseph was disbelief by this, "I-Is…is he alive?"
"He is…" the voice of Neo King Julius appeared in their heads.
"K-King?!" they both shouted.
"Yes, the child has come to this land but has not remembered the past. I feared that the journey would lead to this. However, he has grown up and doesn't live by the rules if you call it that. Chances are that he will not accept you as parents but if the memories are brought back…"
"Do you think he will truly return to us?" Jordan almost wanted to cry, "We were only a family for not even 6 years and…"
"I know…that's why I hope what I am about to give you…can provide some aid," the king answered.
A small vial filled with fluid appeared to them. Jordan picked it up as war flashbacks appeared in his head…before grunting sadly.
"Give this to the boy when the time comes…but don't force it. Anyway, things are getting hectic in Hollywood Heights. Demons are appearing and will start to feast on civilians. Your armor and weapons will appear to you. Go fight them!" the king added.
"Right!" they replied.
"Also…a group of travelers will be looking for you too so be sure to find them likewise," the king dismissed them.
Sisters of St. Beaumont – Graduation –
Iberia Curacao, L'aura Beau, and Mesa Reed sat down in the aisle as they listened to several speeches from the nuns, the board of directors, and their valedictorian and salutatorian.
"I wish Eva could be giving a speech too," L'aura muttered.
"She hasn't been answering our calls nor texts," Iberia added silently.
"I hope she's alright," Mesa.
The last few days were hectic for the school as the incident from Aeuropa Capital Academy resulted them to keep the graduation ceremony at their school with increased security measures. Several students were afraid of the Elder Bairns while others assumed they were just urban legends.
The mother superior walked up to start the process of the diplomas when she felt a jolt stabbing through her. She collapsed as a massive, multi-armed ninja-Elder Bairn appeared, prompting everyone to scream and evacuate. The security guards tried to shoot them down while a few nuns unleashed holy water and exorcism but to no avail.
Life's Fit – Hollywood Heights Campus
A.J sat at his office, waiting for an email from Alex upon the arrangement to move to the southern campus but to no avail.
Heh, sounds like you made your decision…to terminate, he thought, guess I'll have to go to HR and get him off our boot.
He got up and headed his way over to HR when he heard a strange splashing sound followed by people screaming and fleeing their offices.
"W-what in the name of…" he began before he saw blood splashes.
"Get out of here!" one of his coworkers shouted, "It's a monster!"
A.J was about to act all tough and confident but saw the newly transformed Elder Bairn in the form of some gargoyle-like creature. One of his other colleagues grabbed him and fled.
"T-This…" he muttered silently.
The fire alarms went off to get the people to evacuate the building as three more gargoyle-like Elder Bairns appeared, trying to block them from their exits. The workers and customers huddled in fear while a few of the jocks tried to throw something at the beasts to fight back but were too feeble to be a match against them. Heads were torn off as several organs were pulled out for feasting.
Before anyone could cry out, one of the glass windows on the ceiling collapsed as Alex appeared on scene with his Dragon Kopis Sword at the ready. A.J gasped to see this man before him and was about to say something about his job but a swift of his sword backed him otherwise.
"Just so you know, my days with your fake personality are over…" Alex said, "But today…I won't let anymore people die!"
The gargoyles roared before charging to the hunter. Alex's eyes glowed red as he slashed his way through them, blood spewing everywhere from the front desk to the workout equipment.
"This way!" Alice led Eva through the streets. Several cops were roaring through as well upon civilians calling for help and emergency.
Eva took out her phone as she saw several text messages from the other girls as well as some horrific pictures that took place.
"N-No…" she trembled.
"What's wrong?" Alice asked.
"My friends…the ones from school, their graduation ceremony was under attack by those monsters too!' she answered.
"Are they okay!?" Alice grew worried.
"Yeah they appear to be safe thanks to FaceOut's status but I don't think we're safe here any longer," Eva answered, "This entire town is like being burnt in hell."
They continued to flee the area as they made a few turns through the alley before running into Judd's Tavern. They were about to go past it and keep going but the Elder Bairn appeared again and attacked. The two ran to the doorway to open and barely got inside safely as the monster roared before crumbling to dust.
"W-we're safe…!" Alice sighed in relief.
"For now yes," a familiar voice was heard.
The two turned to see a group of men and another girl just standing there. Eva's eyes widened upon seeing Gregory Lawrence among the crowd.
"Y-You…G-Gregory?!" Eva gasped.
The man did not reply to this as Eva was in shock. Alice looked at her confused by this.
"Y-you know this man?" she asked.
"He used to work at the Brother's place…of St. Aeuropa," Eva explained, "B-but…"
Rasputin was donned a long-black hoodie cloak with a pair of black jeans and turtle neck sweater. His heart was beating fast again as he did not want to see her. However…
"It appears that you still don't know what is going on," he replied.
"Aside from getting nearly killed by those monsters!?" she answered.
"You should be away from me as far as possible," he stated.
"Why do you keep pushing me back?!" Eva cried out, "I can't get to know you!?"
"You'd regret it once you learn the truth," Rasputin answered, heading upstairs. Dodecadron wanted to say something but he kept his mouth shut.
"Just leave him be," Alice tug on Eva's arm, "Maybe he's just afraid."
"I don't understand…" Eva answered, "He saved me though an exorcism long ago…and yet…"
Kyle kept staring at Alice as he slowly tried to figure out if she was…
"A-Anastasia?" he trembled.
"Huh?" Alice looked at him.
"Oh, please excuse me…I once had a daughter that looked almost like you…" he blushed and turned his head to the side.
"What happened to her?" Alice asked.
"…she died," he answered with a lie, "A terrible accident took her."
"I'm very sorry to hear that," Alice replied.
"Hey um…listen, we thank you for having this store to keep us safe from the monsters, but our friends are in danger," Eva added, recalling the text message.
"It's not safe to be out there," Dodecadron said, "No harm will come from me or anyone of us here."
"We appreciate your hospitality but…" Eva started.
Asahi and Ikuya walked in as the girls gasped and recalled them as the senshi that were previously on the news some time ago.
"Y-you…" Eva gasped.
"Super Shion and Super Kaza?!" Alice's eyes widened.
"Yes…but that's just our pseudonyms," Asahi answered.
Must we be doing this now, Ikuya thought.
"Protected by the Master of Radiance, I am the Swimming Guardian who fights for Energy and Spontaneous! I am Suiei Shiina! Don't let my genius blind your ignorance!"
"Protected by the Master of Redolence, I am the Swimming Guardian who fight for Inspiration and Vision! I am Suiei Kirishima! You better be ready to face your fears!"
"We have more Swimming Guardians who are out trying to stop the monsters by breaking the towers that guard the entire city," Ikuya added.
"However, if the danger continues to rise…Hollywood Heights may soon fall to ruin. We need to evacuate everyone out of here," Asahi added.
"Please help us find our friends," Eva answered, "Three of them are at Sisters of St. Beaumont and apparently a monster appeared to attack them!"
"We'll do what we can to get them to safety," Asahi answered.
"Bakashi! We're supposed to protect…" Ikuya began.
"This bar has been safe thus so far. Besides…" Asahi looked at Artemis, "I have faith that his magic is the one that's keeping everyone safe here."
"We do appreciate if you stay safe here," Kyle agreed, "Let them help find your friends and protect the city."
"I suppose we don't have much of a place left to go to," Alice sighed, "Very well."
Dodecadron rearranged the one area of the bar to a more comforting lounge with blankets and some soft sodas and hot chocolate. The two ladies slumped down to relax as the bar owner could see the skies begin to darken from the southeast. Isuzu walked in to see the girls and joined them for some company while Seijuurou sat alone at the bar, wondering about that odd expression of Tsubasa from earlier.
Asahi and Ikuya took off, heading to the religious academy. Time was getting shorter and shorter.
~Episode 8 END~
~Episode 9 PV~
Ben: The Shrovetide is coming…
Verrado: All these weaklings will never live to see tomorrow!
Alex: You won't be killing anymore humans!
Asahi: What the hell is happening to this town!?
Ikuya: Not just Hollywood Heights…?!
Sergi: Next time, Free! If Remembering Me…