Slayer: We're back once more for the adventure continues.
Judan: I wonder if we should be worried…
Shadow: Meh doesn't matter.
Slayer: You guys have no faith in me do you?
Judan: The story is just a single part to another story, based on events that had happened before. Which haven't even been written yet.
Slayer: You wanted to use my universe for your story.
Bladedancer: Enough! We have a story to get to!
Slayer: You can't talk that way to me! I created you!
Bladedancer: This whole section is slowly going down the drain…
Mizore: I hate to say it… but I have to agree with that.
Slayer: Traitors!
Judan: Alright let's just get this over with. We here at Dark Guard Productions own nothing but OC's, and reality building concepts. Everything else belongs to their respective owners. Now without further ado…
Everyone (Minus Slayer): Here's the story!
Slayer: Traitors! I'll gut you all like a fish!
Bladedancer: Don't hurt me…
Nero
Thoughts/talking to inner voice
'Masamune'
Arc Two: path to might
Chapter Nine: Dragons are at the top
The Void Walker
You know… if I didn't know any better I'd say she likes hurting me. Breathing heavily as sweat dripped down my face. I felt pain all over my body. I was currently laying on the snowy field, completely bruised, battered, scraped, and whatever other manor one would refer to in my position. When Masamune said this training would hurt. I had no idea just how right she was. Doing my best to at least to look up, I saw that she was currently trying to make a basket hat out of the cattails. Personally I had no idea, how she knew how to do that.
I personally didn't care. My guess was that she may have picked it up from a book. Maybe one I read because I was bored. But when it came to the girl… I really had no idea. As for how long I've been here… I'd say about a week, if not a week and a half. One tends to lose track of time as they are beaten to a bloody pulp. And yes that is how badly I've been fairing. She was good, I mean really good. I may have mentioned it before, but she was better at my fighting style than I was. Also faster, stronger, and more agile than me… did I mention she was really good?
'You should really stop beating yourself over losing to me. I am your power personified after all.' Managing to prop myself up with my arms, I stared at her blankly. She didn't really care to be honest. No she was just smiling while finishing up her hat. Once done she put it on her head, making her smile all the more. I won't lie and say she wasn't a beautiful girl. But her happy go lucky attitude was a little bit much. I mean she was smiling while trying to gouge out my eye!
Shaking my head at her while sighing, I decided a little conversation wouldn't hurt. "So I know you told me about what you are, as well how this whole Zanpaktou thing works… but you never really told me about yourself." She stopped a bit and looked at me confusingly. I decided to elaborate. "Look I know you said you were me in a way. But unlike you I'm a guy. So I was just wondering if you like anything else, besides what I like. I mean you seem a heck of a lot happier than I am."
She looked at me for a second before smirking at me. "Well I hope you aren't hitting on me here.~ After all I just know Mizore won't be happy about that.~" I could only stare at her with my mouth open. At my expression she started laugh hysterically. This caused me to close my mouth and message my temples. I could feel a migraine starting to form. Wiping away her tears from laughing to hard she smiled at me. I on the other hand only gave her a hard stare. Pouting cutely she decided the snow was more interesting now. So getting up she started to create a snowman.
Watching for a bit I gave a small smile. She had worked fast, and had already created a base about as tall as herself. I chuckled lightly as the five foot two girl tried putting on the snowman's middle. So getting up and brushing off some snow I headed over to her. As the middle was about to fall on her, I helped by grabbing the other side. Looking around it she gave me a bright smile. And with the two of us we put it right upon the base.
Wiping her brow of sweat she turned to me and spoke in a questioning tone. "I guess you're wondering why I'm always happy right?" Turning back to her I nodded, it was true that I was slightly curious. Smiling sadly she continued. "To be honest I'm the part that you had lost. The part of you that still remembers our old life, which is why I could make the hat." I stared at her in shock, I had truly thought that any trace of my old life was gone.
Seeing my expression she giggled before becoming somber again. "You see, before becoming a voidwalker, before becoming a hunter even. And even before graduating school… you were a happy child. Nothing could ever get you down. Intelligent, funny, and full of energy you were liked by a lot of people." Looking out to the clouds, her eyes became distant as she continued. "Your family was killed in a horrible incident. Your world years before you were born. Was in a terrible war, it was against the W.D.O. or the world destruction order." I couldn't help but crack a smile at that.
Spotting my expression from the corner of her eye she gave a small smile. "Yes I know you thought the same then to. That name is way to gaudy, and way to long winded." Her frown returned as she continued. "Still what they were capable of was no joke. They took the world by storm, literally… Before anyone could put up a solid defense, they had already completely wiped Japan from the map."
Hearing that I couldn't help but grimace. "Well… I hope there wasn't any version of my friends there…" She nodded her head in solemn agreement before continuing.
"Yes I would hope not. But as I was saying it was terrible. It wasn't until a man named Jackson Grove came, that they were able to defend themselves. He was a genius, not only on the battle field but also in technological engineering. With him they created the W.R.C. Or World restoration Corporation. They were successful, especially when colonel Neos Draconis appeared. Out on the field he was eventually called Bladedancer. A powerful man just as smart, if not smarter. With him everyone survived each fight, but he eventually sacrificed himself to save everything. I was a tragic loss of a hero."
Taking a thinking pose, I tried to remember where I heard the name Bladedancer before. Eventually I just gave up, and opted to try and find out what this had to do with me.
"Not that this isn't interesting… but what does this have to do with my family?" Looking downcast her hair shrouded her eyes as she answered.
"They were killed by those still loyal to the W.D.O. more than seventy years after their defeat. It was actually Bladedancer's sacrifice that eventually won the war. He did after all kill their leader, but that didn't stop all of the followers. In fact it was more that eighty years, before all of them were weeded out. You were seven at the time, but after that all of your smiling, all of your happiness disappeared. You see I am what's left of your childhood. The last bit you never got to experience…" Her voice trailed off as she started to sniffle.
She was on the verge of tears, but now I understood. I understood why she was so emotional. Despite everything she was still just a kid. The kid I could've been if things would've been different. I watched as she started to cry at the sad story of my life. I on the other hand felt some closer from the tale, but it didn't make me sad.
So despite the beating she gave me I walked up to her, and gave her a tight hug. "Don't be sad about it, besides I wouldn't trade my life for anything." It didn't take me long to regret my decision of hugging her. Because after my words she hugged me back, only with enough strength to break it. She was also wailing and crying her eyes out.
I don't believe I was ever this emotional… Just when I thought my top half would explode, from her hug. My rescue came in the form of a…
Ahem… Hearing this Masamune stopped hugging me. I couldn't help but fall to the ground gasping for air. While still on all fours I turned to my savior. There stood a buxom woman in her early twenties. She had long black hair that fell to the middle of her back. Her eye color was the same blood red as mine. She was wearing a black zipped up coat that was cut off at her middle. Under it was a red shirt. The coats sleeves were long but opened up at the cuffs. On her hands were red fingerless gloves. She was also wearing black leather pants tucked into red leather boots. The boots almost reached her knees.
In height she was an inch shorted than me, so about five foot nine. She was also wearing a black small cross, which was attached to a red chain. It reached a little lower than her chest. Her skin was also as dark as mine. Also… being a guy I couldn't help but notice her "chest", was just a bit larger than Kurumu's. Taking in her appearance, and also glancing at the extremely close black clouds of ominous evil… I could correctly guess who she was.
"Well it's nice to finally meet you in person Nero." She looked a bit surprised at the name but she gave me a small smile.
Well it's nice to meet you face to face as well. But why did you call me Nero? Before I could answer Masamune teleported next to her.
'He decided to call you that because calling you his dark half was redundant. Also you deserved a better name than that!~' Nero folded her arms underneath her chest and gave me a grin.
Well then I suppose Nero is a better name. So thanks twerp!~ My left eye twitched at her "nick name". Breathing in through my nose, and out through my mouth I calmed myself.
"Alright now that introductions are out of the way… I can only assume it's time to truly fight?" Her face becoming serious she nodded in affirmation. This elected a giddy response from Masamune, who jumped up and down.
'Finally! An actual fight to the death!~ Let's show these "nightmares" who owns this place!~' Me and Nero stared at her before turning to look at each other.
"Is she always like this?" Nero slumped her shoulders and sighed before answering.
Unfortunately yes… but it does help to brighten up any situation. I nodded sagely at that while Masamune pouted angrily. However it just looked too cute to take her seriously. This prompted an angry response from her.
'Oh come on! I'm stronger than both of you! I am the sword that can cut through anything! Fear me!' I snorted before outright laughing. I was soon followed by Nero, Masamune glared at us before she too joined. Recovering I stared back at the outlines, of different creatures approaching with a smirk.
"Well I think it's time to get this show on the road, and I think this will be a good test for what I've learned." I quickly summoned my own version of Masamune. Grinning gleefully Masamune did the same. However Nero just summoned two black and red desert eagles. I looked at her surprised, seeing this she smirked at me.
Don't worry I'll teach you about these one day. For now… She trailed off while, turning back to the horde of plague ridden monsters coming into view. Let's kick some major but! Grinning myself now I prepared for what was to come. However that disappeared as a huge blue jumped from the crowd. Landing in front of us I just sighed in disappointment.
"Of course you would have to be the first one." In front of me was a tall twenty foot tall monster, with a deer like head and a bulky left arm. It was also covered in fur and gave a loud demonic screech. "Huh… yep it just had to be the cleric beast…" Screeching one last time it charged us, all to content with crushing us under foot.
Madness? This is… okay I guess you could say this is madness. By the line break…
The Dragon
I'm seriously starting to wonder how I managed to keep an entire army alive… When I can't even keep these guys from being eaten! Currently we were in a rather big mess. I was currently staring, as a giant man eating plant was swallowing Tsukune whole. Everyone else was currently freaking out as they tried to save him. It had all started when Tsukune said he smelled something good. Unfortunately curiosity got the best of him, despite my warnings. Following him we ended up in front of a delicate pink flower. Enticed by the smell it was giving off he walked up to it.
When yelling at him about how dangerous it was, he just said I was paranoid. So once touching it the ground around him suddenly lifted up. Thus enclosing him in an even bigger flower, that was now growling at us. That had caused everyone to panic and attack the flower. This was doing absolutely nothing, not surprising really seeing what kind it was. It was known as a Forene Bolito or a flower grinder. It was called this because its skin was hard enough to grind solid granite into dust. The insides were also extremely hard, and it had a sort of gizzard inside.
I first came across it when I saw a small reptile like creature, get eaten by it. It then spit out any leftover bones and organs. It wasn't a pretty sight… Anyway staring at the scene in front of me I shook my head. Sighing I took out of my void pocket a guardless katana. The blade was black and about four feet long, the handle was eighteen inches. It was also covered in black malleable leather. That way I could get a better grip on it. The sheathe was pure black and was made of iron.
Getting into a quick iado stance I aimed for the stem of the plant. Then moving quicker than what any of my companions could see. I ran forward and drew my blade to slash at the stem. It was a clean cut and I stopped a few yards away and sheathed my blade. The flower soon fell over and died, allowing Tsukune to crawl out. Once they made sure he was alright they turned to me in awe. No doubt they were surprised at my level of speed.
I however only turned to look at Tsukune in annoyance. "Now then have you learned your lesson?" Flinching back he nodded his head in submission. I grunted while folding my arms across my chest. "Alright then next time listen to me; we're almost to the flower. So I'd rather not lose any of you so close to the goal. Now once again listen and follow my orders." Feeling something I looked around in suspicion. "Besides I don't think we're completely alone out here." Looking around in concern they tried to see what I felt. But to no avail since whatever following us, wasn't going to let it be seen that easily.
Who surprised me though was Shirone. When looking at her I saw that she closed her eyes.
Hmm… seems as though she's trying to push past the darkness around her. At the moment, she was trying to feel out the presence following us. Trying to feel what I felt, despite the horrible feelings she was getting just being here. I felt a little proud at her trying to do that, and I even smiled when she opened her eyes.
"I can feel something even more evil, and dark than this place approaching us. Although it's hiding in the shadows." The others of the group turned to look at her skeptically. Everyone but me and Mizore that is... Having already seen, Shirone's sensory prowess before. Still even though I believed her, the impressiveness of the feet… was probably lost on all of them. To be able to sense out, and separate one dark force from another… especially in this place, of all places. Was very, very, difficult to do even for someone like me.
If trained properly she can probably… well I don't even know what she'd be able to do…? Still despite how impressive it was, there was still the concern of someone following us. And yes I do mean a sentient person when I say someone. No animal could give off such a… negative feeling. Sure there were creatures that could come close. But those weren't really concerning since they had no ability to plan. They were just mindless monsters.
Not to say they weren't strong to begin with that is… but it's easier to fight monsters than people. Yokai included with the people… Still whoever it was hunting us would be in for a terrible surprise.
Deciding that we've spent enough time dawdling, I turned to the others. "Well it doesn't matter for now; as long as they don't attack us we'll be fine. Now we must get going, the hunter's condition isn't getting any better." Without waiting for a response I continued moving. Only this time a little more focused on the one following us.
All of them groaned a bit but continued onward. Not that I blamed them too much it's already been a week of hiding, running around the purple fogs, resting, and just eating in complete darkness. Yeah not a fun time for anyone… But! Like a candle in the darkness we were close. And I mean very close, our destination was fifty yards away.
Okay I just need to walk literally ninety steps and we're golden! I was so happy that I started to just count off the steps in my head. Seventy two!~ Seventy one!~ Seventy!~ Yeah I kept going until I reached forty. At that point it was time to create a plan. And to also deal with the creature stalking us. Stopping everyone else stopped in confusion. Except Shirone who was still paying attention to the one following us. Closing my eyes and focusing I felt out its energy signal.
Feeling it I summoned my personal sword. A Psi-blade to be exact… It had a rounded handle of ten inches in length. The guard was straight and had two small spheres on either end. It was also just five inches all the way across. The blade if it could be called that was round, an inch thick, and three and a half feet long. The blade ended in a rounded point. The whole thing looked like it was made of glass. Seeing the strange sword the others looked at it in curiosity.
Addressing them I spoke in a professional tone. "Alright we're close, really close… but first we need to take care of our stalker." Pumping mental energy into the Psi-blade, the actual sword appeared. It took the appearance of a glowing two edged sword. One side was black and the other was white. The blade was also giving off a soft glow, as mental energy flowed through the catalyst. "Alright let's see if our opponent is any good….. Ahh crap…" Peering into the darkness I saw something I wished I wouldn't see again.
Sighing I waved at it. "Hello there Nether demon… what brings you to this Abyss torn place?" Yes a Nether demon, strong intelligent, and very ruthless. The last time I fought one was in a war, it took almost everything I had to beat. Then again at the time I was only at half power. I frowned at that thought.
Come to think of it… how much power do I have now? Walking into the light my blade was giving off, everyone could now take his full appearance. He was skinny, a lot skinnier than the demon I killed before. His head was also covered by an armored cowl. This only allowed his glowing purple eyes to peer through. I couldn't help but make a comment on that.
"Okay your eyes aren't creepy at all…" The others turned to me at my sarcastic tone, while I continued observing the demon. His hands were clawed and roughly the size of his torso. The rest of his body was covered in a ragged and rusty purple armor. By the looks of it, it used to be plate mail. The fading and worn out runes indicated high quality. His feet were bare, showing his bleached white feet, and sharp talons. How I knew he was a Nether demon was not just his eyes. But also his huge torn up bat like wings. The membranes being colored black, and the rest a dark purple.
Those wings although torn told me what he was. Well the wings and the eyes that is. Still I was lucky that it wasn't another pit lord. I'd rather have my soul, not torn in half again thank you very much! Spreading my feet slightly, and holding my sword out in front of my I spoke to him.
"Alright what do you want with us demon? Are you after me? The ones behind me? Or maybe just all of us?" He showed no sign of talking as he stared at us. Looking behind me I saw that Tsukune had moved over to Moka, and had now taken off her Rosario. Strange to me, but then I did think that it might have been a seal. Looking at the others, I saw them all prepare for a fight. Kurumu got out her wings, tail, and claws… Gin turned into his werewolf form. Yukari got out her wand, and Shirone got rid of her disguise as well.
Her cat ears and two tails, swinging in agitation behind her. And last by not least… Mizore had brought out her ice claws, ready to use lethal force if needed. Which if by last experience might be needed. Moka was shrouded in a light and reappeared. Only this time her hair was silver and she looked older. Her eyes which were pink were now also red. Turning back to our opponent, we all watched as he lifted his clawed hand. He then proceeded to drag it in front of his face. This left behind a glowing purple line, the line followed his hand even as he returned it to his side.
That one action alone told me how dangerous this guy was. I felt incredible energy coming from that thin glowing purple line. And if he was able to put that much power, into something simple like that… Well I didn't really want to know what else he was capable of.
Just when I thought he was mute he talked. "The flesh of those who don't belong, the hunt of those which aren't animals, the intelligence of the sentient, and the energy contained within a whole soul… That is what I'm after, that is what all but one of you hold… That is what is standing behind you dragon…" I scowled behind my mask, already the situation was terrible. I could tell by that speech alone, that he had stayed here far too long.
Normally someone could, come here, and go back home without any serious problems. Granted if they were all prepared correctly. There was an exception however… if you consume the flesh of the creatures here… Then you'd be affected by their corruption, just looking at this guy made me nervous. Thanks to his feeding he now had both Nether, and Abyssal energies flowing in him. And like a certain Darkwraith once said…
"Nether and Abyssal energies don't mix." I had a feeling that now I'd see why they don't "mix". Feeling my instincts kicking in I held my sword out. Just in time to as the demon appeared in front of me, and his claw clashed with it. Holding fast and trying to push him back I saw that his hand was covered in black and purple energy. It also had lightning coming off it, however that was just unstable excess energy.
Realizing that testing my strength, against a demon's in my condition was folly. I moved to the left letting him slip by me, and then using my speed I took a slash at his back. However to my surprise he used his wing… now covered in the same energy, to block it. Jumping back as he tried to back hand me I landed, and growled in frustration.
I didn't believe what was happening. Not only was he incredibly strong, but he was also just as fast as I was. If not faster! No doubt to the others we were just blurs, even to the unsealed Moka. Or even the fully transformed Gin! And speed… was a werewolf's specialty.
I snapped out of my thoughts as he spoke again. "Fine then, even with such a dirty soul… you wish to die first dragon. Very well, prepare to die at the hands of Gil'thorax!" That name if anything sealed the deal. He was truly a Nether demon…
Not only that but he's stronger than the last one I faced. Gritting my teeth I waited for him to commence the next stage of battle. However I didn't need to wait long as he charged me. Swinging my blade we clashed as a shockwave of energy erupted from the blow.
Madness? This is… okay I guess you could say this is madness. By the line break…
The Yuki-Onna
It was unbelievable; the speed at which they were fighting at was terrifying. It also proved just how weak the rest of us were, when it came to these fights. Sure we could handle a hundred like Saizou. But this… this was just insanity. I didn't even know what he was fighting. The only clue we had was that he said it was a demon. But demons were usually A ranked monsters. This thing was S class, maybe even higher! I also didn't get why he kept calling our guide a dragon. But my own anger at being useless shrouded me from those thoughts.
With a shout Tsukune voiced his concerns. "Wha, What is this?! I can't even see them move, how are they doing that?!" Clicking his tongue Gin answered him.
"To be honest I can barely keep track of them." Turning his wolf head to Moka he asked her a question. "How about you? Can you see anything Moka?" The silver haired Moka looked on at the fight with concentration. I could tell she was doing everything she could to see. But in disappointment she shook her head.
"No! It's like trying to watch Hunter fight Shizu all over again. It's impossible, and this is what we'll be dealing with in the future? I hate to admit it… and I really hate to admit it… but I really don't like our chances." I gritted my teeth at her words. If inner Moka was actually admitting she was out matched… then we seriously were in trouble. Normally her pride wouldn't allow her to say that. But it would seem she's as worried as the rest of us.
I was about to say something, when I felt a strong shockwave pass by us. Planting my feet I put my right arm over my eyes, that way no debris would get in my eyes. Peering around with squinted eyes, I watched everyone else do the same. I felt that I was lucky that I was wearing the night vision goggles. Gritting my teeth harder I felt another shockwave. I also got pushed back a bit by that. We all were, except for Shirone who stood her ground. Turning to her completely, I noticed that she wasn't even affected by wave. She wasn't even covering her eyes.
"Shirone are you all right?" I was worried seeing how her eyes weren't even blinking. Not even turning her head she nodded. "Why aren't you being affected by their power?" Hearing that everyone looked to her, she looked seriously at all of us before answering.
"It's because I felt this kind of battle up close, with Onii Chan and Xenolith. During it I could barely see them move. Also the amount of power they were giving off was enormous. Not as much as this battle but still rather close. After that during the last few days, I asked if there was a way to watch and deal with it. He told me to use my energy to "stick" myself to the ground. As for seeing… he told me to watch for the energy they would give off. It took me a couple tries, but now I'm able to do it fairly well. I've been watching this whole time in fact." Once again that girl had surprised all of us.
Hunter was right; she just needs a good teacher to get stronger than even inner Moka. That teacher also happened to be Hunter, who was just as strong as these guys. Looking back with determination, I decided to follow her example. Not even blinking I took in the whole surrounding. Focusing I tried to feel out their energy. After two minutes I gave up, only to have Shirone laugh a bit.
"Mizore San the goggles are interfering! They can't pick up the speed at which they move." I pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration. She was right; they were just made to see in the dark. Not track down a high-speed fight. This made all of us wearing the goggles groan in frustration. The rest of us however followed Shirone's instructions, but not being natural sensors. They two failed in watching.
It left me kind of smug I'll admit. "So what were you laughing about before?" They mumbled apologies before bracing as another wave came at us. "This isn't good at this rate we'll be useless..." Once again we had to brace ourselves, however this time they reappeared in front of us. Currently they were trying to push against each other. But Bladedancer was losing in terms of strength. Seeing a chance to help I used my cryokenesis on the ground below the demon. Making it an icy floor, no longer having a stable surface he slipped and fell onto his back.
Seeing his chance Bladedancer stabbed his sword down, in an attempt to impale him. How if by speed or luck the demon rolled to the side, having no resistance Bladedancer stumbled forward. Right onto the sheet of ice I made… trying to keep his balance, he wasn't able to defend from the attack aimed at his back.
"Argh!" Yelling in pain, he was sent forward as the demons claw collided with his back. Getting up he turned towards me. "Would it kill you to not help me?!" I winced seeing how it was my fault, I quickly apologized.
"Sorry, I didn't think that would happen…" Running a hand down his mask he didn't bother responding. Instead he turned back to his fight. However this time, I could see some blood dripping down his back. The wound didn't look pretty, and it was my fault.
Gritting my teeth spoke quietly. "I shouldn't have done that." Clenching my hands I couldn't help but feel angry with myself. That was until I felt a hand grab my right hand. Looking to my right I saw Shirone holding my hand.
"Don't worry you were just trying, I did the same when Onii Chan was in danger. You can't change that he got hurt, after all who can predict what will happen in battle." I sighed in acceptance at her words, but that didn't mean that I still didn't feel guilty.
Turning back to the fight I watched as Bladedancer, struggled even more. The wound slowed him down, so now everyone could at least see his blurred form. And based on what we saw he was losing. All along the ground was blood, but what was strange was that it looked to be boiling. Looking back to them I saw that they had broken up, I bit my lip seeing how Bladedancer was battered. His coat was slightly ripped and there were cuts all over his body. But what he did next surprised me.
"Hmhmhm… HAHAHAHA! I didn't think you'd be this strong in all honesty! But don't think you have me beat yet!" The demon snorted, before talking in his distorted and deep voice.
"Enough dragon! You're weakened and scared admit it! Leave now and I won't kill you. Your soul is tattered and worn, tired and full of anguish. There is darkness and yet light in it. A tainted soul such as yours is disgusting. But pure souls like the ones you protect are a delicacy. Even if they be Yokai or human… the souls which aren't tainted with others, can fill one with ecstasy!" The demon began laughing, a horrid insanity filled laugh.
I didn't know what to make of this. He wanted to eat our souls because they were pure? But he didn't want our leaders because it was tainted? I didn't understand what was going on at this moment. Looking to see what Bladedancer would do next. I was surprised to see that the demons words had no effect on him. Instead he answered in a calm fashion.
"Are you truly that naïve? Or has the corrupted energies of the Abyss, finally gotten to your head? I know what my soul is like, I've always knew. My soul is worn, my soul is tattered, my soul is tainted, and my soul is tired. But despite all that it is strong, incredibly strong. And now you'll find out just how strong it is, because the soul of a dragon… is to never be underestimated." Closing his eyes he seemed to start concentrating on something.
Looking back to the demon I saw to my shock, stepping backwards in fear. Looking back to Bladedancer I saw wind start to pick up around him. Watching in amazement, we all saw as the air around him began to distort. Eventually it became so distorted that we couldn't see him anymore. Then suddenly a cloud of smoke exploded around him. Trying to see within it I had to cover my eyes as the smoke was blown outwards. Looking back I was surprised at what I saw.
A large dragon had appeared. The dragon's wingspan was twenty five meters across, and it was fifteen meters tall. From head to tail it was 30 meters. The tail had some sort of red armored tip, which formed a sharp spear blade. While on its head was some kind of red dragon skull like mask, covering its jaw and the top of its head. The dragon's eyes were glowing blood red. And it had four large bat like wings, which were covered in red bone like armor.
It was a little awe inspiring. Because even to us yokai… dragons were a rare and mythical breed. This was actually my first time seeing one; no doubt this was also the case for the others. But now I could understand why both him and the demon, referred to him as a dragon. Before I just didn't want to believe it, but now here was proof right in front of me. As he opened his great maw, I quickly covered my ears. However it couldn't completely block out the loud roar he gave off. Leaping forward he reengaged the demon.
Madness? This is… okay I guess you could say this is madness. By the line break…
The Dragon
Ahh… I always feel so invigorated when I use my true form. I don't feel as cramped, my wounds heal, and my power skyrockets! At this feeling I couldn't help but let out a hearty roar. Locking my eyes onto my opponent I felt his fear. No doubt he didn't realize I was truly a dragon. More than likely the feeling my soul gave off, made him think I was only a dragonkin. But still he insulted my heritage, insulted my soul! And then to top it all off… threatened those I vowed to protect. No amount of begging will save him from my fiery breath. Or save him from my spear like claws.
He was about to learn the hard way why one doesn't mess… with dragons. Launching myself forward I quickly landed in front of him. Backing up in surprise at my speed, he didn't defend himself as I slapped him aside with my right paw. Skipping across the ground, Gil'thorax used his wings to right himself up. Doing so, he dug his claws into the ground to slow himself down. Watching impassively at his skilled display, I waited to see what he'd do next. Standing straight up he spread his wings out wide.
He then spoke in a condescending tone. "You false one! To take upon the form of the dragon, despite having a tainted soul! It is unforgiveable! Especially as the blood of the elders flow through your veins. A false dragon such as you cannot possibly beat one such as me! One who controls darkness and Chaos!" To be honest I was surprised he could feel all that. But still he was boasting, and once again insulting me.
Not… a… good… Idea! Craning my neck back I built up fire in my mouth. Taking a breath through my nose I opened my mouth, and let out a giant ball of fire. The heat of which burnt the ground underneath, it as it travelled to its target. Using my own body, I blocked the heat from reaching those behind me. Dragon's fire is after all… one of the hottest fires in existence.
My opponent however wasn't so lucky compared to my team. Though he acted quickly to try and get away, my fire was magical. And thus followed him as he flew upwards. Unable to dodge, he formed a shield of purple energy around himself. The ball of fire met it, and promptly exploded. The heat of it washed over all of us, and I acted quickly to shield Mizore from it. Jumping back I covered her with one of my wings, and used a heat shield spell. Since being a Yuki Onna made her particularly weak to it. Watching impassively, I waited to see him emerge from the smoke, which now blanketed the area.
Seeing how the heat had dissipated I removed my wing from over Mizore. "Thank you." Turning towards her I gave a sharp toothy smile at her thanks. However my smile vanished as I heard laughter. Turning back I watched as Gil'thorax, used his wings to blow away the smoke. He looked a little burnt, but still seemed quite alive if his laugh was anything to go by.
"HAHAHAHAHA!" I only stared up at him with an impassive face. Well as impassive as it could get being a scaly reptilian head. My only guess to his actions is that he had either… A lost it completely, or B his own rage broke him. Looking at the others I saw that they were just as confused as I was. Before I could speak however I gave a strong sneeze. This unfortunately caused me to light on fire, the ground in front of me.
Great someone's talking about me… If I found out whom they're dead!
Looking up at the still laughing demon I sighed. "Huh... Why do I always get the crazy ones?" As if on cue Gil'thorax stopped laughing and stared at me. I'll also say that his eyes appeared to glow even more. But that was probably thanks to the electricity, coming from them. "Wait what?" Looking up I felt my instincts go haywire, so listening to them I jumped to the left. Just in time for a purple laser to blow a small hole where I was. The laser also came from his eyes…
Huh… that's a new one. Sensing the same danger, I jumped again only this time I took flight. Flapping my wings I maneuvered through the air dodging his… Ugh laser eyes. I truly felt that I was in some bad super hero movie. Having enough I charged him while dodging his attack. Soon enough I was near enough for what I planned. Now only a few feet away I tucked in my body, and rolled forward in mid-air. However I had my tail extended, and not having enough time to move. I hammered him with it, causing him to crash down into the ground below.
Creating a small crater from his impact I didn't let up. I held the advantage and was planning to kill him with it. So stopping my flight I dived at him, and within a few yards I straightened out my body. With him unmoving I slammed my paw right on top of him. Some audible crunches were heard as I destroyed most of his bones. It was much like stepping on a bug to be honest. Moving off him I looked down to his body to see… nothing but broken stone.
"What!" Quickly looking around I tried to locate him, I found him when he slammed into me with his shoulder. The strength behind the attack was enough to crack some of my ribs. It was also enough to send me flying. Stopping myself was easy with my four wings. Landing I looked at him while spitting out some blood. It wasn't much but the taste of molten metal wasn't very good. Didn't help that my blood was extremely hot. Looking back I narrowed my eyes at Gil'thorax. That last attack should have done him in, but here he was good and ready.
Growling I spoke to him in a heated tone. "Seems like I wasn't the only holding back. I didn't think you were that strong or fast. The last Nether demon I killed wasn't nearly as strong as you." For some reason my mentioning of another demon got his attention.
"What do you mean by the last Nether demon you killed? What was his name?" Despite being weary of any intentions Gil'thorax might have, I decided there was no harm in telling.
"His name was Ne'zelog; he worked under the pit lord Fel'thuran. Did you know him?" Gil'thorax seemed to think, trying to find out if he did or not. Eventually his laugh returned.
"HAHA! Well it seems as though they finally met their match! Ne'zelog, Kel'thuzad, and Fel'thuran were all weak fools! They blindly followed whatever orders they were given. Even if it wasn't from our master, the Fools!"
Having no idea what he was talking about, I decided to get some answers. "What do you mean by that? Surely they would've only followed your leader?" This had once again sent the demon into a laughing fit.
When he answered me it was with amusement. "You poor soul… You really have no idea what is going on do you? Everything you know is a lie, if you fought those three. Then you're just being manipulated, think about it. Why did you fight them in the first place?" At his words I felt my world start to spin. The reason I fought them, was because I was hired to find someone's friend. But then why did he end up in that world in the first place? Did someone send them there on purpose? If these assumptions were correct, than that would shatter everything I knew.
Already I knew there was a powerful enemy, but I always thought it was the Dragonite Darkwing. But if it isn't then we're all in serious trouble. Luckily for me I had someone who could confirm my suspicions. Unfortunately Hunter was in a coma; as such he couldn't tell me what Shizu had told him. Looking back at the chuckling demon, I decided I needed to make this quick. But before I could run up to him, and incinerate him in a fiery inferno. Something else showed up, something I really didn't want to deal with…
Noticing me staring behind him, along with my companions. Gil'thorax looked behind himself, to see the monster I wasn't sure I could kill. Apparently our fight had attracted it. Behind him was a large creature, about fifteen meters tall, and had a long whip like tail. The tail was twenty meters long and had a spear like end. Its legs were grasshopper like, only more scaly and red in color. Its feet had three toes with long sharp raptor like claws. Its arms were lanky and reached all the way to the ground. Instead of fingers it had crab claws. Its head resembled a triceratops.
It had yellow eyes and covered in red scales. This was none other than the ginily protero… or shadow predator. Its main abilities are… unsurprisingly turning invisible. But not just any kind of invisible… but being able to literally mask itself entirely. In other words no can detect it by any means. It also didn't help that it was incredibly fast, strong, and intelligent. Not to the point of sentience but pretty close.
It only reveals itself when its prey cannot escape. So in other words with one bite it ate Gil'thorax's head. His body falling over as spasms erupted from it. We could do nothing but watch in morbid fascination, as it ate his whole body. Not even his armor and stomach were spared.
Speaking quietly I addressed the others. "The ginily protero… the very creature I was talking about before. Its name means shadow predator in Abyssal. Luckily for us based on what I know it goes to sleep after a big meal. I just hope Gil'thorax is enough to fill it up. But we should go and grab the flower before it notices us." Everyone agreeing with me I led them towards the cave. Once there I gave them their next instructions.
"Alright now quickly before it gets back here. Look around and grab as many flowers as you can carry. Once done I'll fly everyone out of here." Instead of being grateful Gin gave me a bored look.
"And just why didn't you fly us here in the first place?" Rolling my slit eyes at him I answered.
"Because I'm I have a time limit in this form. This place has spells preventing dragons from setting foot in here. So the longer I stay here in this form… the more likely something bad will happen to me." Begrudgingly accepting my answer, he ran in after the rest of them. Every minute I waited I felt as if I'd suddenly be struck by lightning. I love my dragon form, but Manus really did hate dragons. Plus at this moment in time I didn't want to have the ginily attack me. What made it truly formidable is that it can attack, while staying invisible.
After what felt like hours but was only five minutes. The group finally came out of the cave, giving a sigh in relief I lowered myself to the ground. Understanding what I meant they all climbed on.
"Wow you guys are heavier than I thought. Alright hold on tight, and enjoy the ride. This is probably going to be one of the only times, you get to ride a dragon." Making sure they were all holding onto one of my back spikes, I took off. Now in the air, and not having to worry about any of the dangerous clouds. Or even worry about any of the dangerous creatures. We made it back to the exit in under an hour. However during that time, I felt what Darkheart felt the last time he was here. It started out slow, but soon enough I felt my energy quickly being siphoned.
It didn't feel pleasant either; in fact it hurt… quite a lot. About a mile from the exit I couldn't take it anymore. I was forced to land.
"Okay please quickly get off; I don't know how much longer I can take this." Looking confused at my pain form, I was grateful that they didn't question it. Instead they immediately did what I asked. Acting quickly, I turned back into a human with a small distortion. Breathing hard I fell onto my back in pain. Everyone ran up to me in worry. Looking at them with one I eye opened; I told them what was happening.
"I'm fine for the most part. But let's just say I figured out the spells used, to keep dragons away from here." I chuckled a bit after that, before continuing. "It's an enchantment, which painfully drains the dragon's energy. So just give me a minute and I'll be fine. We're almost to the exit… and I'm pretty sure that all of you want to leave, as much as I do. I plan on taking a long… shower and nap after this." They all looked at each other, before smiling and joining me on the ground.
However it was Shirone, who actually laid down next to me. The others just sort of sat around. It didn't really mean anything, only that she trusted me. Closing my eyes I let sleep take me, knowing that my lingering draconic aura would scare away any creature.
Madness? This is… okay I guess you could say this is madness. By the line break…
The White cat
Looking back over to our leader I saw him asleep. Not that I blamed him, after all if what he told us was true… then he was probably in pain the whole way over here. To be honest I liked him, but only as one likes or loves a family member. He wasn't really an older brother, but more like an uncle. For a brother I already had my Onii Chan. So I was fine, but still… with him being an actual dragon was surprising. The power being thrown around when he fought, along with his quick thinking and reflexes. I couldn't help but want to be that strong and fast.
It was the same with inner Moka as well; I could see it in her eyes as she "watched" the fight. Personally I was glad that Onii Chan taught me how to watch, high speed battles like that. Still as I mentioned I would like to be that strong.
I hope with Onii Chan's help I'll get that strong one day. Hearing giggling I propped myself up with my arms. Looking towards the sound I saw, with some disappointment. Kurumu crawling her way towards Bladedancer. I already knew what she was planning and called out to her.
"Kurumu san I wouldn't do that if I were you…" Yelping a bit she looked over to me and gave a breath of relief.
"Phew… Don't scare me like that Shirone Chan. And besides you don't know what I'm doing." At this point we had everyone's attention, besides our sleeping friend that is.
Sitting up with my legs tucked under me, I shook my head in disappointment. "Kurumu San I know you're trying to take off Bladedancer's mask. I suggest you leave him alone. It's rude, and uncourteous." Moka ended up shaking her head in disagreement with me.
"No offense, but isn't it rude to not show one's face? I mean even Hunter takes off his face mask, and glasses every now and then." I pursed my lips, seeing how she was mostly right.
"Be that as it may… I don't think he's trying to be rude. He's just um… well…" I really couldn't come up with an excuse. "It doesn't matter I'm sure he'll show us when he's ready! Don't just take off his mask when he's asleep!" I was now glaring at them with my Nekoshou features out. Sighing inner Moka walked over to Tsukune who handed her the Rosario. Giving me one last annoyed look she reattached it. In a bright light outer Moka was back. Stumbling a bit she was steadied by Tsukune. Who was then promptly bitten once again.
"Argh!" Surprisingly Kurumu didn't care, being more interested in Bladedancer's mask.
"Oh come on… one little peak won't hurt." To be honest I wasn't so sure about that one. I mean knowing what kind of guys him and Onii Chan are… there was a good chance that it might electrocute her for trying. But who was I to stop her?
Oh yeah… the only one who could stop her. Sighing I scooted a bit closer to him, my eyes staring at Kurumu daringly. I was just daring her to try and take it off. Pouting she crawled forward undeterred. I was about to pounce on her in order to stop her, but I felt a hand grab the back of my shirt. Looking back I saw that it was Gin who grabbed me. He was also currently smiling at Kurumu.
"Don't worry Kurumu Chan.~ You can now take a look without distractions." Kurumu blushed a bit at the chan suffix but still responded.
"Thanks Gin San, I'd hate to see what Hunter would do if I accidentally hurt her." Eye twitching as I looked at her my thoughts quickly became angry.
Like you could hurt me you blue haired cow! Okay so I was a little self-conscious of the difference in our… sizes. As for the whole hurting thing… well despite starting out as B ranked. We Nekoshou can actually get as strong as SS or even higher! As for Succubi… most of them were a lost cause. Struggling in his grip I tried to kick or punch Gin. However being much bigger and stronger. He was able to keep me at a distance. Now right next to him, I could only watch… along with the others. As she bent down to take off Bladedancer's mask. But as I predicted, as soon as she tired taking it off she was electrocuted.
Falling onto her back she blew out a puff of smoke. As for the rest of her… she looked rather burnt. But at least I knew she wouldn't try again, and at that I couldn't help boasting.
"Well serves you right, but still shame on all of you. None of you tried to stop her."
"Yeah none of you did, except for Shirone." Everyone jumped a bit at the voice, and Gin actually dropped me on the ground.
"Ow…" Rubbing my back having landed on it, I turned to Bladedancer who had woken up. "Hey you're awake!" Looking at me he gave an eye smile. Reaching over he started petting me, I couldn't help but smile at the nice feeling.
"Yeah I'm up, I've been up since you started yelling at Gin to release you. But I wanted to see if the succubi would actually go through with it." He turned towards Kurumu before continuing. "I admit it's nice to see my trap I still functioning. Anyway thank you again Shirone." I couldn't help but blush at his thanks. His petting of my head didn't help either. But with this close proximity, I could finally tell what kind of person he truly was. I wasn't too surprised to find that he felt like an older version of Onii Chan. Sure there were some differences, like he felt wiser, and even fiercer.
But the same kind and caring personality was there. One that couldn't be faked or taught. The same thing that had saved me from my despair, and dragged me from the pits of darkness. I decided that from then on he'd be my uncle, whether he knew it or not. I giggled at that thought, and hugged him. His surprise was evident, but he eventually returned it. The hug was one given to family members, and I could tell that he knew it.
I was pretty happy that he understood what it meant. Leaning into my ear he whispered. "So I guess I'm part of your strange family now?" I giggled again before answering.
"Yep! You're the uncle, Mizore's my Onee san, and Onii Chan is… well Onii Chan!~" He laughed while picking me up and putting me on his shoulders. He stood up and addressed the others.
"Well I think it's time to get going. Apparently I have a nephew to save!~" Everyone looked at him in confusion. Everyone except Mizore who smiled at our interactions. I believed she understood what he meant. So not wasting any more time we started moving again. When we arrived I noticed a distortion, something I didn't see before. So speaking from on top of my ride I asked what it was.
My newly acquired uncle was only too happy to answer. "That my niece is a spatial distortion. The only way in and out of this dimension. Normally I can create my own, but using natural ones such as this make it easier. Not that I can activate portals here." I nodded my head in understanding, while the others became confused at the use of niece. Well except Mizore who giggled. Looking him up and down Kurumu questioned him.
"Sorry but aren't you a little young to call her your niece?" He shook his head before answering.
"If it helps I'm actually over one hundred years old. Well at least technically. There was an issue with um… well it doesn't really matter." She was about to question further, when we all felt a chill go down out spines. Becoming serious my new uncle put me down. "Listen everyone stay together away from me. It appears as though the ginily protero didn't have its fill earlier. Giving him a quick hug for luck I ran over to the others. What he said made sense, if this creature really was like a predator. Than it would go after the one not a part of the group first. I was determined to actually be of some help this time.
Watching and waiting, we slowly made our way towards the distortion. Looking towards us I saw his eyes widen. I quickly realized that it was behind us. Turning around as fast as I could, I jumped and punched it as hard as possible in the chest. It was just enough to make it pause in killing us. Dashing forward, Bladedancer lashed out with his strange glass looking sword. He only succeeded on scratching it. Roaring in more anger than pain it disappeared. Bladedancer quickly turned to us.
"Alright it knows our escape route, close and form a circle. Do not let it get behind you!" We quickly did what he said. Now waiting around for it to make a move, I listened for any sound coming from the ground. It ended up being useless however, as I felt something hit me in the chest. It knocked the wind out of me, and I felt ribs creek in pain. Being knocked out of the group circle, I knew I'd be the next target. I spit out some blood, as Bladedancer ran towards me. Trying to get up I stumbled, but I was lucky as I felt something go right by my head. Turning around I saw the creature standing behind me.
Its tail was hovering above me, ready to impale my chest right where my heart was. Not being able to move fast enough, I shut my eyes. However instead of pain in my chest, I felt something warm on my cheek. It was also wet, so reopening my eyes I saw to my shock… Bladedancer standing in front of me. He had somehow managed to grab the creature's tail, and the blood had come from his hands. Having been sliced as he grabbed it. I could tell that he was struggling to keep hold. Hissing in frustration I saw it pull back one of its hands.
Pushing it forward it punched Bladedancer in the temple. He flew backwards letting the tail go, and he tumbled to the ground landing on his face. Then quickly the creature vanished once again. Running over to him I slid next to him to see that his mask was off. Not caring what he looked like I flipped him over to see if he was okay. Still I couldn't help but think of how notice how he looked. He looked sixteen maybe even seventeen. His hair was pitch black, and he looked like he was half Japanese. Grabbing his face I gently opened his eyes. Now without his mask changing his eye color I knew they were blue.
But based on his eyes I could tell he was out cold. Not exactly a good thing, seeing how he was our only chance at fighting this thing.
Shaking him in vain I tried to wake him up. "Come on! You can't be beaten yet!" Before I could continue trying I heard Mizore yell out me.
"Shirone behind you!" Looking behind me the ginily was behind me once more. There was nothing I could do, not even the now released Moka, or fully transformed Gin could save me. Once again I closed my eyes, but this time tears came. I didn't want to die yet. I still had so much I had to do… saying my last goodbyes I waited for death. But I was once again surprised to still be alive a few moments after. However Mizore's words snapped my eyes open.
"HUNTER!" Looking up I saw Onii Chan behind the monster. In his hand was the same katana he used to defeat Xenolith. But what really got my attention was the tail on the ground. Screaming in pain the ginily disappeared again, only this time without its tail. Looking back towards my savior I jumped up and hugged him. I couldn't help but let my tears flow.
"You saved me again…" He smiled warmly as he returned my hug and rubbed my head.
"It's what older brothers do Shirone…"
Slayer: Oh yeah! Look who's back in action!
Judan: It has been a while since you have last fought. At least out of your dream world. But in real reality you take martial arts lessons.
Slayer: Meh… Don't read too much into it.
Shadow: (sniff) Thank you for quoting me here. It's been too long since my wisdom was actually put to use.
Mizore: Wait a minute aren't most of your bones still broken?
Slayer: Uh….
Shirone: Onii Chan no! Uncle tell him he's being stupid!
Bladedancer: Alright… Slayer you're being stupid.
Slayer: I did mention some of your background you know?
Bladedancer: Meh… If people really wanted to know they'd read… TOTDG Bladedancer. But whatever…
Judan: Ain't that the truth high five!
Both: (High fives)
Slayer: You're both going to die for this…
Shadow: You actually think they care?
Slayer: Now that you mention it… I guess now oh well. Hey Mizore can you end this for us?
Mizore: Of course!~ Ahem… This has been a Dark Guard Production now signing off!~
Everyone: Goodbye!