-No Good Deed Goes Unpunished-
A .hack/G.U. Fic by Digitaldreamer
Chapter Four: In Which Haseo Fights Back
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Annnd I return with yet another a chapter. You know you're thrilled.
Or horrified. Horrified works too.
Thank you for all the reviews last chapter, I'm very thankful. Hopefully you'll all enjoy what I have next. I think this chapter came out pretty decently... I guess we'll see, right? Oh, and let me assure you guys that this isn't an Endrance x Haseo fic. When I said this fic has no pairings, I meant it. I may drop hints here and there (for instance, we all know Endrance is gay for Haseo) but no actual pairings shall be written. It's pretty much all up for interpretation.
Right, on to the fic!
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Breg Epona was as beautiful as it always was. The machinery that was keeping the city afloat in the sky seemed to form a strange sort of rhythm for the fortress. High-level players ran this way and that, chattering among themselves. A soft breeze was billowing through the city, blowing back the various chim balloons shops had out as decorations. Standing here in front of the chaos gate, Haseo could almost pretend everything was normal, that he wasn't Sakaki's slave, that he hadn't been sent here under orders and this was just another routine outing for Canard. Then of course some PKer would attack an innocent player right in front of him, and the teen would feel his stomach turn as he was reminded that this wasn't The World he knew at all. The adept rogue grimaced as the latest victim's cries assaulted his ears, trying to tune it out. He wanted to help... but he knew he couldn't afford to, not right now. Besides... he was just as hated as any regular PKer right now.
The teen sighed and ran a hand through his hair, glancing around. He had sent two short mails to Gaspard and Silabus, suggesting that they meet up here and train... for once, he was really hoping that the two of them would choose not to read their mail. Unfortunately, this wasn't the case, and Haseo felt his heart sink as he heard Silabus gasp from behind him.
"Haseo! What happened to you?" He heard the blade brandier ask the moment the warp lights dissipated.
"Ah! Haseo's hurt, he's hurt!" Gaspard exclaimed.
The Terror of Death mentally kicked himself. He should have made sure to wash off the bloodstains before coming! There was nothing he could do about it now, however, so he forced a smile as he turned to face the two. "It's nothing. Don't worry about it." He said, hoping his smile looked believable.
Silabus' brow furrowed, even Gaspard didn't look convinced. Silabus opened his mouth to ask. "Did Sakaki--"
"I said it's nothing to worry about, so let it go." Haseo cut him off, sounding a bit harsher than he meant to.
"Alright..." Silabus said, still looking skeptical. "Are you sure it's alright for you to be hanging out with us like this?"
"Yeah, are you sure?" Gaspard chimed in. "We don't want to get you in trouble..."
Haseo nodded, praying his smile looked sincere. "Yeah, I'm sure... are you guys sure you don't have work to do?" 'Please say you do.' He mentally begged.
"Nope!" Silabus beamed.
"Me neither!" Gaspard grinned.
Their Guildmaster felt his heart sink as he looked at their eager faces. 'They're just excited as always... they really love this game, and they love playing with me... damnit, Sakaki. I don't know what you're doing, but you'd better not hurt them...' He gave a sigh. It looked like there was no way to get out of this. "Alright then... I'll pick an area." With that, he turned and pulled up area selection.
It was when he was skimming through area words that he heard Sakaki's voice in his ear. "That's far too low levelled, Haseo."
The adept rogue jumped, eyes widening as he glanced around. "What the-- Sakaki!?" He sputtered. At this, he heard Sakaki's cackling, which only made him more frantic as he looked.
"Haseo?" Silabus' brow furrowed in confusion.
"What's wrong?" Gaspard asked.
Haseo's eyes narrowed. "Don't you--"
"Relax, Pet. They can't hear me... in fact, no one else can. You may as well stop your frantic search, you'll only scare your little guildmates." Sakaki sneered, his voice coming from Haseo's M2D speakers. "Just consider it another perk to those edits I've made to your PC."
Haseo's hands clenched into fists. "You..."
"Haseo?" Silabus placed a hand on his shoulder. "Are you okay?" Both he and Gaspard were looking at Haseo with obvious concern.
The Terror of Death shook his head, forcing himself to relax. "It's... it's okay, I'm fine. It's nothing." With that, he began to look through the area word selection again, trying to outwardly appear calm even as his mind blazed.
"At any rate, as I was saying... pick a stronger area. You and I both know the one you were considering would be no challenge for you." Sakaki drawled. "For instance, try... this one." With those words, the area words changed on their own accord, finally settling on a very high-levelled area.
Haseo's eyes widened. "This... this is way too tough for Silabus and Gaspard!" He hissed, trying to keep quiet so his guildmates wouldn't hear.
"Well, it's the perfect opportunity for them to level up then, isn't it?" Sakaki sneered. "Unless you'd rather I--"
"I'll go, I'll go." Haseo cut him off with a growl, entering the area words. "But damnit, if they get hurt..."
Sakaki just laughed as the trio warped away.
--
The three of them soon found themselves in a typical field area. The grass billowed in the nonexistent breeze, the sea glinting from the golden rays of sunset. The low call of a monster could be heard in the distance, along with the occasional coo and rustle from a tree that was clearly home to a nest of chim chims.
Haseo's hands clenched into fists as he surveyed the field. It certainly looked peaceful enough... what the hell was Sakaki planning?
"-seo? ...Haseo?" Silabus frowned, gently nudging his Guildmaster. "Are you okay?"
"Huh?" The adept rogue blinked. "Oh, sorry... what were you saying?"
"He was asking what the objective was for this area!" Gaspard said helpfully, surveying the field with wide, excited eyes.
"Oh yeah, right..." Haseo frowned, glancing over the map. "Uh... it says here that we need to get the three symbol fragments, then head to the beast temple." He wrinkled his nose. He really preferred boss areas... but at least this area was small.
"Alright, sounds good! Let's head out!" Gaspard chirped.
Silabus did not share his companion's enthusiasm, however. He was looking at Haseo, brow furrowed in concern. "Are you sure you're alright, Haseo? You seem really out of it..."
Haseo nodded. "I... I'm fine. Don't worry about it, okay?"
The blade brandier gave a sigh. "If you're sure."
His Guildmaster nodded, forcing a smile. "I'm fine. Let's have some fun, alright?" He said, trying to sound as sincere as possible.
"Alright..." Silabus gave a smile as well.
"Yeah, let's go!" Gaspard cheered. With that, they were off.
The trio didn't have to go far before they spotted one of the alters... and of course, where there were alters there were monsters. Haseo let out a growl as he crouched low. The monsters hadn't spotted them yet, thankfully. They really did look huge, though... some great big lizard thing and two floating creatures. He glanced at Silabus, whom nodded, then at Gaspard, whom did the same. They were ready... he supposed there was nothing more he could do but charge.
And so he did. With a snarl Haseo pulled out his dual blades and slammed into the lizard. "You're open!" He roared as he streaked past, the ends of his coat whipping behind him. In the distance, he heard Gaspard cast a spell while Silabus attacked his own creature and felt a small burst of triumph. He quickly squashed it and focused on the battle, however, as the creature he attacked gave a roar and turned it's golden eyes upon him. Blue energy flared around it as the creature prepared to attack and Haseo gave a growl, lunging at the thing and unleashing a flurry of swipes at it. He then leaped back, bringing up his weapons to block just as blue energy burst from the ground beneath his feet, sending flashes of pain up his spine.
"Gah!" The teen grunted as the attacked dissipated. He shook off the pain and dashed around the lizard, aiming another combo of attacks for the creature's unprotected back. The beast gave a howl of pain and turned on Haseo, The adept rogue was able to leap over the beasts' tail, but wasn't prepared to the set of jaws aimed for his side. Crimson eyes widened. "Crap!" He yelped.
"OrVak Don!" Gaspard's voice rang through the air and flames suddenly rained down from the sky, eliciting a howl of pain from the beast as Haseo leapt safely from its jaws.
"Thanks!" Haseo called out as he skidded a few feet away from the creature, his pale face lit by the reddish glow of his friend's spell.
"You're welcome!"
The adept rogue glanced back to his opponent, a grin coming to his face as violet rings begin to swirl around the creature. "No really, thanks a lot!" He exclaimed, crossing his weapons before him as he flashed white and blue. "Ghost Falcon!" Haseo roared as he leaped into the air, sending a flurry of white energy raining down upon the beast.
As the attack ended the teen skidded to the ground again, panting as he glared up at the recovering monster. He had put a decent dent in it's health, but he was still in for quite a fight. Haseo let out a growl as he slid into a fight stance again, preparing to attack...
...Only to pause as he heard Silabus give a cry of pain. The Terror of Death glanced over to see the blade brandier slam to the ground, one of the creatures with the revolving, eerie faces floating over him and cackling. Haseo grit his teeth. "Damnit..." He muttered as he charged for another attack.
"Sparrow Counter!" The teen called out, racing across the field in a flurry of black and red. He leaped into the air when he was close enough, hitting the creature with several quick, glowing strikes. The final blow sent the creature slamming to the ground with a cry of pain. Haseo smirked as he landed on his feet. "How do you like it, bastard!?" He called out.
"Thanks Haseo!" Silabus grunted as he got to his feet. "Man... these monsters are really tough!" He said as he rushed forward to attack the now grounded creature.
"N-no kidding!" Gaspard yelped as he ducked away from an attack from the second flying beast.
Haseo grimaced as he joined Silabus, bringing a combo upon the monster. "I'm sorry guys, it's a pretty high level field... I... I figured you guys could handle it." He lied. He hadn't chosen this field... but what else could he say?
"Don't worry, it's alright!" Silabus panted. "I trust you... if you think we can handle it, we'll be alright!" He sad, flashing Haseo a smile before unleashing a skill. "Razor's Edge!"
Haseo bit his lip as the rengeki circles flashed to life around the monster. He really hated lying to these two like this, but what other choice did he have? He shook his head as he prepared another skill. He'd have to worry about it later... he had a battle to win.
It was a great struggle, but after several long minutes the last monster finally fell. The three players stood there in the now empty field, panting for breath. "Finally..." Haseo muttered as he allowed his weapons to vanish.
"Phew... that was pretty tough." Gaspard panted, collapsing in the grass.
"No kidding... I'm glad we won!" Silabus gasped, putting a hand on the treasure chest and leaning on it.
"Yeah... you guys did really well." Haseo said, glancing to his companions. Both of them immediately beamed at the praise. He really was proud of them, this field was high leveled for him, and yet neither of them had been knocked out. They had actually fought pretty well, all things considered. Sure, Gaspard had been pretty low on health at one point and he had to step in for Silabus a few times, but still, Haseo was proud.
"Thanks, Haseo... do you want me to heal you?" Gaspard asked, glancing up at him.
Haseo frowned. "Why would you heal me? I'm... " He trailed off as he noted his companion's worried looks, then brushed his fingertips across his forehead. They came away bloody and the teen grimanced. "Oh... geez. I guess this edit really doesn't do well when it comes to armor..." He muttered, then shook his head. He was starting to really miss his old outfit. In that armor, he'd usually been able to avoid this sort of thing. "Don't worry, I'm fine."
Silabus frowned, standing up straight as if it would help with his insistences. "But Haseo--"
"Don't worry about it." The adept rogue insisted. "We've got a big field ahead of us. It's just a few scratches anyway, we really shouldn't be wasting healing items." With that, he turned and kicked the treasure chest. The box opened with a chime and the familiar words informing him that they had gotten one of the symbol fragments flashed across his screen. Haseo forced a smile and glanced back at his companions. "That's one down. Come on, let's get going. I know we can do this!"
"Alright!" Gaspard cheered, getting to his feet. "It doesn't matter how high leveled this area is, I'm gonna do my best!"
Silabus flashed a worried smile. "If you're sure..."
Haseo nodded. "I am. Now let's go."
And so they continued on. They struggled through battle after battle, narrowly avoided being killed again and again. Whenever either of his teammates nearly fell, Haseo was at their side, attacking the enemy until his friends were able to get to their feet and continue fighting. Over time the adept rogue began to develop a strategy and gained a level or two, making things easier... and then of course there was the fact that due to how high leveled the monsters were, Silabus and Gaspard were speedily climbing levels as well. Haseo was surprised to find when he was knocked to the ground, Silabus came to his aid, slashing the beast in two with ease, and was equally surprised to see Gaspard decimate the one behind them with equal skill. His guildmates were catching up with him... and as time went on and their levels climbed, Haseo almost forgot about his situation. He almost forgot the way his coat billowed behind him and that Sakaki was watching his every move... training out in a field like this with his friends, it almost felt as if things were like they had been before Sakaki's rule. Haseo almost felt as if he were a normal player, as if he were actually just playing this game for fun.
He should have known better.
After going through battle after battle, the party finally arrived at the beast temple. They were panting and sweating, but they were happy. Gaspard's excited voice echoed against the stone walls as he babbled about the various things that had happened during their adventure.
"--And remember when that monster attacked Haseo? And then right when it was about to hit him-- BAM!" Gaspard punched his fist into the air and laughed as he waddled along.
"Yeah, you were awesome, Gaspard!" Silabus laughed, his arms propped behind his head as he trailed behind.
"You really were. Thanks for saving me back there." Haseo chuckled at the lead. There was a small smile on his face as he half-listened to his guildmates, mostly enjoying their happy chatter and interjecting every now and then.
The shadow warlock beamed. "Aw, don't worry about it, Haseo. It was about time I helped you out for a change!" He declared, puffing out his chest.
Haseo shook his head. "You really don't need to think like that, Gaspard, it's not we have an IOU system or anything."
Gaspard's grin shrunk into a sheepish smile as he paused. "I know... but I'm glad to be able to help for once."
"Agreed." Silabus said, coming to a stop as well.
Haseo frowned as he turned to look at them. "What do you mean?" He asked, brow furrowing. "Guys, I--"
"Oh, it's nothing bad!" Silabus laughed. "It's just... you know, you've helped us so much, Haseo. You made Canard famous, you're a great guildmaster, and you're a good friend..."
The adept rogue felt his face grow warm. "I... you guys, I'm not-"
"You're always protecting us! Seriously Haseo, you're amazing!" Gaspard cut him off, beaming as he put his hands on his hips. "Don't try to deny it!"
Haseo gave a sigh. "You guys... it's... really no big deal." He muttered, casting his gaze to the floor. What was he supposed to say to that!? Admittedly over the past few months Haseo had warmed up a lot when it came to his interactions with people... but it didn't change the fact that when it came to emotional moments like these, he was still at a bit of a loss.
"But it is!" Gaspard insisted.
"Yeah!" Silabus nodded. "It may not be a big deal to you... but it means everything to us. We know you're busy... so if we're able to help, even a little... it makes us happy..." He said, smiling.
"I..." Haseo blinked, then looked away again. "You guys..." He swallowed. After everything he had done... hell, everything he was doing right now... they still cared for him. How could he possibly explain he should be the one repaying them? He couldn't... so the teen just shuffled his feet. "I... thanks, you guys..." He muttered, feeling his face grow even warmer as his guildmates smiled back.
'Okay, way too much friendshippy stuff for one day!' Haseo mentally cried as he turned away to try to hide his blush. "A-anyway, let's get to the beast statue!" He said quickly, boots clicking on the ornate stone floor as he made his way to the doors. He tried to ignore the way Gaspard and Silabus laughed and followed. 'They are far too happy about this... clearly I'm getting soft.' The teen thought as he pushed open the doors, the familiar ethereal light of the alter causing him to wince. The beast statue glittered before them, looming over the alter and the gleaming treasure chest placed upon it. The adept rogue swore he could hear the soft chantings of a choir as he stepped into the room, taking a deep breath.
"Alright... who wants to open the treasure?" Haseo asked, glancing back his party members.
"You open it, Haseo. You deserve it." Silabus grinned.
"Yeah!" Gaspard agreed, jumping up and down.
The teen couldn't help but give a small grin at their enthusiasm. "Alright..." With that, he turned and gave the chest a swift kick. It opened to reveal a pair of wicked looking dual swords. They were oriental in design, appearing almost like simple short katana, with gold and red birds etched into the black hilts. Haseo gave a hum of approval as he picked them up, not even noticing as the beast statue vanished. "Rising Phoenixes, huh?" He murmured, testing out the weapons' name.
"Woooow!" Gaspard exclaimed. "Those are so cool! I've never seen a pair of dual swords like that before! They must be really rare."
"No kidding!" Silabus gasped. "They're probably really strong!"
"Sure looks like it..." Haseo muttered as he glanced over their stats.
"Do you like them, Terror of Death?" Sakaki's voice rang in the teen's ears. "I had them made just for you."
Haseo visibly tensed, his entire body going completely rigid. "Sakaki..." He hissed, fingers clenching around the blades. He had forgotten! Sakaki had sent him here for a reason... a reason that was about to be made clear.
"Haseo?" Gaspard frowned, looking confused.
The man's laughter in his ears made a chill run up his spine. "Did you really forget I was here? My poor little Pet... I suppose it's time to shatter that little illusion of happiness, hm?"
Haseo let out a growl. "Why you... if you think you had me lulled into some false sense of security, you're wrong!" He snapped, though he was well aware he was bluffing.
Silabus' eyes narrowed. "Haseo... who are you talking to?" He asked, placing a hand on the adept rogue's shoulder.
"Is that so?" Sakaki sneered. "You seemed awfully happy from me... and you seem to enjoy my gifts as well."
"I do not!" Haseo snarled, holding up the shimmering blades and turning towards the edge of the alter. "I'll chuck these damn things right now!"
"Haseo!?" Silabus yelped as he pulled his arm back, eyes widening.
"What are you doing!?" Gaspard sputtered.
"I wouldn't do that if I were you. I went to quite a bit of trouble to have those swords made, you must understand... and if you destroy them I can't guarantee there won't be any... say, -accidents- involving your little friends." Sakaki drawled, a hint of malice creeping into his amused tone.
The adept rogue paused, gritting his teeth as he glanced back at his bewildered comrades. They stared back at him, confused, scared by his sudden change in demeanor, having no idea what sort of danger they were in. "Nngh..." He wanted to throw them. He wanted to throw them so badly... but Silabus and Gaspard... he couldn't have them hurt.
"Yes, that's right... lower your arms..." His master spoke in a slow, lilting tone, the way one would speak to a dog.
Haseo scowled as he slowly did as he was told, fists clenching so tightly around the hilts of the blades that the metal creaked. How dare Sakaki speak to him like this? He wanted nothing more than to punch the man's face in... but he couldn't even see the bastard! "Very good." Sakaki murmured appreciatively, eliciting a low growl from the teen.
"Haseo?" Silabus said as he reached for Haseo's shoulder again, then paused. Haseo seemed to be speaking to something... or rather, someone that he and Gaspard couldn't see... it was almost as if he and Gaspard weren't there. There was clearly something really bad going on... but what was it?
"H-Haseo?" Gaspard whimpered, looking nervous. He had never seen Haseo like this... even back when he had first met Haseo, he had never seen the adept rogue this quiet and angry. It frightened him. "What's wrong?"
"Come now, Terror of Death, it wouldn't do to worry your comrades... turn to face them." Sakaki gently coaxed. Slowly Haseo did as he was told, narrowed eyes meeting two bewildered sets.
"Guys... I--" He started to say, but Sakaki cut him off.
"Ah ah, they don't need to know, Haseo. I assure you, you would only confuse and frighten them... do you want that?" Haseo fell silent, well aware that Sakaki's words carried a simple command... he couldn't tell his teammates what was going on. The adept rogue took a deep breath as he lowered his eyes to the ground. He didn't want to see their faces, he didn't want them to know... he was their leader, how could he be weak in front of them like this?
"Haseo?" Silabus' hand was on his shoulder again. "What's wrong, is it Sakaki?" The blade brandier's concern was clear, golden brown eyes imploringly seeking out crimson.
"Haseo, tell us what's wrong! Please, we're your friends!" Gaspard pleaded.
"I..." The adept rogue grit his teeth, shoulders shaking with the effort it took to restrain himself. He wanted to reassure them, to promise it would be alright, to do anything... but he was forbidden from speaking. He was forbidden... but as long as he kept quiet, they'd be safe. As long as he kept quiet...
"Very good." Sakaki drawled. "Now then... what do you say we try out those new weapons of yours, hm?" He swore he could hear the smirk in Sakaki's voice at the next words he spoke.
"Kill them."
At these words, Haseo felt his blood run cold, his entire body go numb. He glanced up at Silabus and Gaspard, whom were blinking at him in confusion, having no idea that their death sentence had just been cast. "No... no, you promised me you wouldn't hurt them!" He shouted, his voice ringing through the beast temple.
Sakaki laughed at this. "My dear Pet, I promised you that -I- would not hurt them. I said nothing about -you-."
Haseo let out a growl. "I don't care! You promised! You said they wouldn't get hurt!" He snarled. He glanced around wildly, desperately wondering where the "camera" was, wondering where Sakaki's eyes were, just so knew where he could direct this new wave of fury. "You bastard! They're innocent, they haven't done a damn thing to you! They're not involved in this! Leave them alone!" He cried, trying to ignore the way his voice cracked at the end. His entire body was shaking, his fists clenching so tightly around the dual swords in his hands he was sure they would break.
Silabus took a step back at Haseo's sudden burst of newfound rage. "What?" He sputtered, brow furrowing. Were he and Gaspard in danger?
"Haseo?" Gaspard took a step back as well as he looked between his two friends. Something in Haseo's tone really scared him...
Sakaki merely laughed yet again "But my dear boy, since when have I ever cared whether one was innocent or not? Now then, do as I say."
"No!" Haseo snapped. "I don't care what you say, hurting my friends is where I draw the line. I won't do this." His words echoed through the temple, eyes narrowed in determination.
"Is that so?" Sakaki asked after a moment of silence. The Terror of Death merely nodded, fists clenching as he kept his eyes on his very confused guildmates. He wasn't about to go back on his word... Silabus and Gaspard were counting on him. He had to be strong for them.
There was another few seconds of silence... and then quite suddenly Haseo gave a cry of pain as the collar around his neck flared to life. He dropped to one knee, gritting his teeth as agony tore up and down his spine.
"Haseo!" Gaspard yelped, eyes widening as he watched his guildmaster collapse.
"Haseo!" Silabus cried, reaching forward and then stopping. What if he hurt Haseo more by touching him? What was going on here!?
"You -will- do as I say." Sakaki hissed in Haseo's ear. "Unless you'd rather your little friends face AIDA instead..."
"I..." Haseo grunted. "I... augh!" The teen squeezed his eyes shut, fighting against the urge to scream. He couldn't cry out, he had to be strong for Silabus and Gaspard, he had to be strong, he had to!
"NOW, pet."
"I... ah..." The adept rogue let out a hiss as he cracked open one eye, glancing up at his friends. "Guys... RUN!" He choked out, then let out another small cry as the pain intensified, causing his entire body to give a massive spasm. He wouldn't scream, he wouldn't scream, he had to stay strong for those two, he wouldn't scream!
"But... but... you're hurt!" Gaspard cried.
"Haseo, what's going on!?" Silabus demanded, hands clenched into fists. "Tell us what's going on, we can help!"
Haseo shook his head. "No time... there's nothing you can do... go!" He shouted, his legs shaking with the effort it took to remain upright. He grimaced as the pain grew even stronger, sending waves of splintering agony up his spine.
"Stop trying to warn them and attack, Terror of Death!" Sakaki snarled. "Do it, now!"
The teen shook his head even as he doubled over, his breath hissing through clenched teeth as his palms hit the stone floor. "No... I refuse..." He looked up to Silabus and Gaspard again, sweat beading upon his brow. "Silabus, Gaspard, I told you to leave!" He snarled.
Silabus shook his head. "We can't! You're--"
"You're in danger!" Haseo snapped, fingernails digging into the stone and sending pinpricks of pain up his arms. It was fine, it was distracting, he needed the distraction, just a bit longer...
"We're... what?" Gaspard sputtered.
"What do you mean!?" Silabus demanded. "Tell us, maybe we can help!"
The adept rogue shook his head. "There's no time! GO!" He cried, squeezing his eyes shut.
"No! We can't leave, not without you!" Silabus cried.
Gaspard nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we're going to help!"
"Pet!" The collar around his neck crackled, black electricity sparking around it. "If you will not do this on your own, I will make you!" Haseo's eyes widened as his fingers began to jerkily tighten around the dual swords on their own, pinpricks of numbness twisting up his arms at their forced movements.
"NO!" Haseo slammed his palms back to the ground, struggling against their jerky motions. "No, NO! You won't use me for this!" He snarled, shoulders tensing as he fought against his own muscles. He couldn't do this, he had to fight! But every time his fingers moved on their own the pain faded into numbness, a blessed feeling after the previous agony, and every time he fought back, it was as if his limbs were on fire... to feel nothing was preferable, so much better... The adept rogue shook his head as he forced his arms to stay put. "No, I won't..." He looked back to Silabus and Gaspard, gritting his teeth. "I told you to get out of here! Hurry, leave!"
Silabus shook his head. "No! We can--"
"There isn't anything you can do!" The adept rogue could feel his grip finally solidify upon his weapons and shuddered as he tried to keep himself from rising. No, no, he couldn't attack them! "Just go!"
Gaspard let out a whine. "But... we can help!"
Haseo's head dropped, his body shaking as he struggled to maintain control of it and not just collapse. He told them to leave... they had to get away... if he didn't attack them, Sakaki would soon... but they wouldn't listen! Why wouldn't they listen!? He had no choice but to try a different way. "I'm your guildmaster, aren't I?" He murmured. "This is an order. You can't ignore it."
"But..." Silabus bit his lip, looking conflicted.
Gaspard let out a whimper. "Haseo..."
"Leave." The Terror of Death hissed. "You have to leave... if you don't..." His voice broke a bit at the end, his shoulders shaking. "I can't handle losing anymore friends... you have to go... please go!" He looked to his guildmates again, crimson eyes pleading. "Please... I'll be alright." He said, trying to flash a reassuring smile that ended up coming out more like a grimace.
"I..." Silabus frowned. "I..." Golden brown met crimson, confusion and worry warring in their depths.
Haseo gave a weak nod. "Silabus... you know you have to... now... AH!" His collar gave another flash, black energy actually flaring around it and eliciting a howl of pain from the teen. "AUUUUGGGGH!" It was if his skin were alive, as if he were enduring the AIDA possession all over again. It felt as if miniature razors were crawling through his insides, tearing in and around and through him.
"Do not defy me, Terror of Death!" Sakaki roared over Haseo's cry of agony.
"Haseo!" Both Silabus and Gaspard cried.
The adept rogue let out a hiss, struggling not to hyperventilate through clenched teeth. He felt his fingers clench around the Rising Pheonixes, felt his body slowly begin to rise on its own. Haseo cursed mentally as he struggled against it, gritting his teeth. No, no, he wouldn't! And Gaspard and Silabus were still just standing there... he had to get them to leave! "Go..." He murmured. "Go, go, go!" His voice grew more urgent as he repeated the word. He raised his shaking head towards them again, narrowed eyes meeting two wide sets. "I gave you an order as your guildmaster." He hissed, his voice coming out harsher than he'd meant due to the pain. "Now leave!"
"But..." Silabus' hands clenched into fists. "What about you?"
"I'll be fine. Go!" Haseo growled as his shuddering body rose into a crouch.
"Haseo..." Silabus whispered, then nodded and took a step back. "Gaspard, come on, we have to go." He said, putting his hand on the shadow warlock's shoulder.
"But..." Gaspard whimpered again, looking from his best friend to the adept rogue and back. "He's..."
The blade brandier shook his head. "If Haseo says we're in danger, we're in danger. Let's go." He glanced to Haseo, face grim. "Haseo... you'd better be careful."
Haseo nodded. "I will... now leave." He commanded softly, trying to ignore the way his voice was shaking. He watched the two both slowly turn, though they kept their eyes on him. The teen shook his head. "Idiots! RUN! That. Is. An. ORDER!" With that, his arm lashed out on it's own accord, one of the blades tearing away a bit of the green cloth that made up Silabus' outfit. Silabus' eyes widened and Gaspard let out a yelp even as Haseo gasped, forcing his shaking arm down. "What are you waiting for!? GO!" The two didn't need to be told again, apparently Haseo's sudden attack had broken the spell. They immediately turned and did as they were told, charging out of the beast temple without looking back.
The adept rogue let out a shaky breath, his shoulders slumping as he panted for breath. "Nnnngghh... ah... good, at least... they left... ugh..." Haseo shuddered as another wave of pain shot through him, sparking from his legs. Crimson eyes widened as slowly one of his boots began to lift into the air.
"How dare you let them get away!? Go after them and do as I ordered!" Sakaki snarled into his ear.
"No... no... NO!" Haseo shouted, forcing his shaking boot back to the floor. He squeezed his eyes shut as sparks of dark energy burst from the collar, sending flashes of horrible pain through his limbs. "No... I won't... " He gasped out as he stood there, his entire body shaking with effort.
"Pet," Sakaki's voice was cold, quivering with anger. "Do. Not. Defy me. Go after them!"
At those words another spark flashed from the collar and Haseo let out a cry, his back arching as small, inky black spots coiled around his frame. "Ah... AUUUGH!" The adept rogue felt his fists tighten around his weapons, felt his feet take a step forward. "No... no, no, no!" He cried as he took another step, eyes widening as his body began to betray him. "No, you won't use me for this! NO!"
"Stop fighting, Terror of Death," Sakaki hissed. "Do not make things worse for yourself."
"Nnnggh... I don't care what happens to me!" Haseo hissed as his foot rose, preparing for another step. "I don't care... you can abuse me, you can infect me, you can humiliate me, you can do whatever... I promised I would obey you. But... when you bring my friends into this... that's where I draw the line!" With those words, Haseo slammed his foot down decisively.
"Pet!" His master roared. "I GAVE YOU AN ORDER!"
At these words the pain intensified, black energy surrounding Haseo's entire body. It flared around him, crackled in bursts of dark electricity, coiled around him and through him and inside him. It hurt... and all Haseo did was squeeze his eyes shut. He let out a shaky breath, bringing up his arms. "An order?" He felt his lips twitch into a grin. "I'll tell you what, Sakaki," He flexed his fingers, allowed the Rising Pheonixes to drop to the stone floor with audible clangs. "You can take that order and shove it up your ass, alright?"
Sakaki gave a gasp. "You... how dare you!"
Haseo smirked even as the pain intensified, dark energy forming into full on AIDA spots. "Nngh... you can do what you want to me, Sakaki. I. WON'T. DO THIS!" He shouted, his declaration of defiance echoing through the temple.
He stood there for a few moments, breathing heavily... then collapsed to his knees, gripping at his arms. "Ah... auuuugh..." He hissed, clenching his teeth as he finally fell in a heap to the floor. In spite of his words, he couldn't deny that his energy was spent. The adept rogue lay there convulsing as energy flared around him, breathing heavily as he clawed at his bare skin. All was silent in the beast temple, save for Haseo's quiet breaths of agony.
Finally, Sakaki spoke again. "It seems your comrades made it out of the area," He hissed. "Are you happy, pet?"
Haseo's lips twitched into a weak semblance of a grin. "Heh... they're fast runners. I couldn't catch up." He croaked into the cold stone floor, crimson eyes twitching open to stare blearily at the alter. Sure, he hurt, sure, he was going to be in major trouble... but at least Silabus and Gaspard were alright.
"Of course you couldn't," Sakaki snarled into his ear. "I may not be able to infect your little friends now that they've gotten out of the area... but let me assure you, that little act of defiance will cost you very, very dearly."
The adept rogue merely gave a low, quiet laugh as he vanished from the beast temple in a burst of swirling light.
--
Thwock!
The sound of a fist hitting flesh echoed through the room, followed by a wet thud. After a few moments of silence, a gloved hand reached up to brush against a bruised face. 'Still there. Shame.' Haseo thought to himself, then let out a choked cry as a Sakaki's foot connected with his side and sent him skidding across the carpeted floor. He lay there for a moment, panting, then grunted as Sakaki's foot planted itself firmly on his face.
"This is the second time today, pet." Sakaki hissed, digging the heel of his foot into Haseo's cheek. Emerald eyes gleamed dangerously as he glared down at his captive's beaten form. "How many times must I do this before you learn?"
The Terror of Death spat out a bit of blood. "Heh... how many times will you do this before you learn I'm not going to listen to you?" He shot back, his voice coming out hoarse even as he flashed a grin with blood-stained teeth. His grin vanished as Sakaki's heel was lifted from his face, only to brought slamming down onto his broken ribs. "AUGH!" The teen's world flashed white as the broken bones grated against his each other, his stomach twisting as he fought against the urge to throw up.
"Hold your tongue." Sakaki hissed as he removed his foot, watching the adept rogue twitch violently on the floor. "It is time you learned this lesson, Terror of Death. Speaking around your superior like that will only end exactly as it should... with pain!" Another harsh kick, this time to Haseo's back, sent his captive rolling across the floor before settling in a heap.
Saku let out a laugh from the sidelines. "What an idiot!" She sneered, putting her hands on her hips. "You'd think by now he'd know better, huh Master En?" She glanced up at her companion, unconsciously biting her lip.
Endrance, as always, was silent.
The blonde felt her shoulders slump as she looked back to Haseo. Wasn't this what Master En wanted? If that was the case then... why was he still so quiet?
Haseo let out a groan as he forced himself to get to his knees, trying to ignore the way the room was spinning. That was right... this was the second time today... the second time of feeling like this, as if this were all more than just a game. Clearly the edits to his PC had something to do with it, otherwise he wouldn't be feeling things like he was, wouldn't feel as light-headed as he did... but even so...
The teen's thoughts were cut off as Sakaki picked him up by the collar, pulling him up so they were face to face. "Do you understand me, pet?" Sakaki sneered. "It doesn't matter how long you fight me, sooner or later, you will be at my feet. Disobedience will only land you here once again."
"Is that so?" Haseo murmured, eyes narrowing as he forced himself to focus yet again. He was tired, he hurt everywhere, but he had to keep fighting...
Sakaki smirked at him. "Yes. You are fool, pet... can't you see that defying me only makes things worse for you? Defying my orders, denying your rightful place... it doesn't matter, it will all end the same way regardless. Can you not see that you are fighting a fruitless battle?"
Haseo snorted. "Fruitless?" He asked, letting out a wheezing breath through a once again broken nose. "I'd say the look on your face is a pretty good reward for fighting back, if my friend's lives didn't count."
A punch to the gut wiped the sneer from his face. The adept rogue hung there, choking and gasping for breath as Sakaki scowled at him. "This is what I'm talking about, pet! Why must you fight me like this!? Why must you bring this upon yourself? Why won't you SUBMIT!?" At these words he hurled Haseo against the stone wall, a loud 'KA-CRUNCH!' ringing through the room. The adept rogue slid to floor, leaving a a bloody smear across the glowing blue designs on the wall. Sakaki stalked up the steps towards him, continuing his rant as he did so. "It's simple, really. It should be obvious by now! I am your superior, Terror of Death! You swore your loyalty to me, I am your master! I hold the power to utterly destroy you, and still you disobey!" He came to Haseo's crumpled form and knelt down, grabbed a fistful of Haseo's silver spikes and pulled the boys head up roughly. Crimson eyes blinked blearily at him, dazed from pain, the teen's breaths coming out weakly. Sakaki gave a cruel smile at this.
"Does it hurt, pet? It is becoming a bit too much for the great Terror of Death to bare?" He murmured, his voice dripping with sickeningly fake sweetness. When Haseo gave no response, his grin widened. "In that case, how about this!?" He snarled, quite suddenly slamming Haseo's face harshly into the concrete floor. "This is what happens to those who oppose me!" The former Moon Tree leader snarled as he pulled the adept rogue up and slammed him down again and again. "Do you not see? This all that you will gain from disobeying your master! You'll be beaten like a dog! Only a fool would continue like this!"
The emerald-haired man finally paused as he held Haseo's head over the now cracked, bloodstained concrete. Haseo merely let his head hang, blood dripping onto a spot on the floor. "Don't you see, Terror of Death? I have won. You're only delaying the inevitable... sooner or later, you will submit." Sakaki murmured, finally pulling Haseo up to face him.
Only to find himself meeting two narrowed crimson eyes. Haseo looked far more coherent than he had when Sakaki began and was now simply glaring at his captor, seemingly oblivious to the trail of blood dripping down his face from a gash on his head and his nose. "Submit?" He snorted and jerked his hair from Sakaki's grip. He then placed his palms on the floor, pushing himself off of the ground . "You're the fool, Sakaki... I've said it before and I'll say it again, your stupid beatings won't work on me. So what if you hurt me? Big deal, it doesn't change a thing. I will never, ever submit to you." He was sick of this. He would fight for his friends, for The World, he wouldn't let Sakaki use AIDA... but he'd be damned if he was just going to sit by and take this crap either.
Sakaki glared at him for a moment, then backhanded him, sending the adept rogue back to the floor. "You will not speak to your Master like that." He growled, rising to his feet.
The teen lay there for a moment, then pushed himself to his knees once again. "You are not my Master." Haseo hissed, silver bangs overshadowing his eyes. He was tired of being pushed around... he had changed, oh how he had changed since the beginning of all of this, but he still had his pride. Bare fingers reached up to brush at his bruised and bloody face. "This... do you really think this will change anything?" He asked, glancing down at his stained fingertips. He then looked to Sakaki, smirking. "This body, this face, this blood... it doesn't mean anything to me." He said. "You can attack it all you want... when it comes down to it, this is only a game, Sakaki. All this power you have... it's a game, nothing more. It's a game that can hurt a lot of people, that can cause a lot of problems, that brings so many connections and wonderful things... but it's not an all-encompassing power like you seem to think it is. It doesn't make you God."
His captor's eyes widened. "Why you... how dare you!?" He snarled, preparing another kick. "I'll teach you your place!" With that, he aimed his boot for Haseo's face, fully intending to do even more damage...
...Only to gasp in shock as Haseo caught the infected limb before it could touch him. The Moon Tree leader gaped as Haseo knelt there, fingers clenched around the dark material. The adept rogue's smirk widened. "You see this? This doesn't matter, Sakaki. I could have let you hit me just now... it wouldn't mean a damn thing. It's just my PC body. One with great power, yeah, one that's brought me many friends... but it's still just my PC body." He glanced down at his warped outfit. "One I'm deeply connected with, mind you... and I assure you, when this is all over, I'll be quite intent on using my Avatar to kick your sorry ass... but in the meantime, I can take heart in knowing that this is all still only a game." He knew it sounded a tad hypocritical, coming from his mouth. He knew how serious things in The World could be. He knew how important these things were... but he knew very well just how far Sakaki was taking that importance, and if it meant he could gain a foothold, even just for today, he was going to take it. "These bruises, this hurt, all of it... it hurts, yeah... but the real me is still sitting in my computer chair. The real me will be tired as hell and sore, but the real me is still under my control... and you can't take that away from me."
Sakaki let out a growl as he pulled away his foot. "How dare you! I'll--"
"You'll do what?" Haseo quirked a brow at him. "Hit me again? Kick me? Big deal, I can take it. You can only do so much to me... it's only a game, and I do have a life, you know. You only have me for a few hours a day... and you can't dish out anything I can't handle. You may have the power, but you don't know how to use it. You won't beat me... and sooner or later, my friends will save me and you will get what's coming to you." At those words he rose to his feet. He was shaking his effort, he had trouble staying upright., but he was standing. The teen flashed a grin as his hands clenched into fists. "So go ahead... hit me. Hurt me. Do whatever... I'm not going to obey you. I won't submit to you. In the end... your power is only a game, and why should I fear one of your stupid games?"
The former Moon Tree leader sputtered. "Why... why you..." Saku let out a similar gasp, and Endrance's eyes were wide.
Haseo's grin fell back to a smirk. "I thought so." He murmured, a bit of his old arrogance showing through. With that, he brushed past Sakaki, striding across the bloodstained carpet and towards the entrance of the Serpent of Lore.
"Where do you think you're going!?" Sakaki snarled, spinning on his heels.
"I already told you," Haseo said without looking back. "Unlike you, I have a life. I've been on for hours now and I have school tomorrow, I need to sleep."
"I did not give you permission to leave!" His captor snarled, waving his hand.
The collar once again flared to life. Haseo paused, body tensing as pain flashed through it like molten fire. "This... this is nothing..." He grunted out, shaking his head. He then began to make his way for the door again, slower than when he'd begun, but even so, he was moving.
Sakaki's eyes widened and he held out his hand, turning the collar up higher. "You dare defy me!? Obey! OBEY!" He shrieked, his voice growing wild as the adept rogue continued to make his way towards the door. He barely flinched as the collar grew stronger and stronger, sparks eventually emitting from the infected item.
"I told you... this is nothing." Haseo said, not even bothering to look back even as his body began to shake. He still forced one shaking foot in front of the other. "That trick won't work anymore. It hurts, big deal... it's a game, Sakaki. Nothing more."
Sakaki let out a snarl. "Why you... don't you get it!? I have power! You cannot defy me! If you do, I'll let loose AIDA on your helpless little players!"
The adept rogue paused for a moment, then glanced back at Sakaki. "I'm well aware of that, Sakaki," He said, his voice strong in spite of everything. "But let me remind you of something... if you do that, you'll lose your trump card. It would be a horrible disaster, yes, but you and I know better. You know won't unleash that card, not yet... what you want from me is willing submission, what you want from me is an attack dog... and you know damn well once you unleash AIDA you've lost the one thing keeping me here. So you won't release it... you can hold it over my head to keep me here, but as long as I keep fighting you, as long as you don't have my submission... you aren't going to unleash AIDA."
His captor let out a gasp, taking an involuntary. "Why you..." He snarled, hands clenching into fists.
A smirk came to Haseo's face. "I'm right, aren't I? You won't unleash AIDA on the whole game. As long as I keep playing your stupid pet, even if all I do is fight back... you won't do it. You have too much pride to not save it solely for the purpose of getting me to bow willingly." He said.
The former Moon Tree leader gave a growl, face twisting into an expression of rage. "Regardless of whether you are right or not, I will have your submission. Sooner or later, you will fall, Terror of Death. I will find a way to destroy you. You will be at my feet, exactly where you belong."
His captive merely snorted. "Whatever you say, Sakaki. Regardless, I'm done playing with you today." With that, he turned and began to walk away again.
"Don't you dare turn your back on me! Our lesson is not yet finished!" Sakaki roared. "Endrance, Saku, stop him!"
Haseo blinked as in a blur of purple and blueish-green, Endrance and Saku blocked his path. Haseo blinked down at the Tempting Rose and Infinite Spiral, then looked to his former friends. Saku's eyes were narrowed in an expression of determination that seemed almost childish. "You're not getting past us!" The shadow warlock snapped, fists tightening around her weapon. "I won't let you, this is for Master En!" Haseo glanced from her to Endrance, trying to ignore the stab of pain he felt at the blade brandier's blank expression.
"You two..." He said, gazing at them sadly for a moment. "I don't know why you've done this... why you've sided with him... but whatever. I can't make you change your decisions, regardless of how stupid I think you're both being." The Terror of Death locked eyes with Endrance, brow furrowing as crimson met amethyst. "You promised me you would always be at my side... I guess that was a lie, huh?" He asked, his voice tinged with a hint of bitterness.
Endrance almost broke down right there. He wanted to throw away his sword, to drop to his knees at this amazing boy's feet, to kiss at his injuries and beg for forgiveness... but he couldn't. Not yet. He wanted to shake his head, to cry, to scream... but he did nothing. He just remained stock still, forced his expression into stone, struggled to keep his grip on the glowing weapon steady.
The adept rogue gave a sad laugh. "Whatever. You guys can make your own decisions... but regardless, I'm going. I've played your game for today... you can't keep me here."
"You wanna bet?" Saku snapped, preparing a spell. "OrVak Don!" Flames rained from the ceiling, slamming down on Haseo and eliciting a yelp of pain from him. Endrance's eyes widened as the fire storm raged around the adept rogue, fist clenching around his sword.
The flames billowed away after a moment and Haseo stood there, panting, his body covered in singe marks and shining red burns. The adept rogue breathed... then glanced up at Saku, smirking. "Is that all you've got?" He asked, shakily standing up straight again.
Saku's eyes widened. "Wha... WHAT!?"
Haseo snorted. "I thought so." With that, he brushed past the shadow warlock and made his way for the door again.
"Saku, Endrance!" Sakaki roared. "Destroy him! Get back here, Haseo! Stop this at once!"
Haseo glanced back at Sakaki, crimson eyes. "I told you... I'm done playing for today. I have a life, you know. You can't keep me here forever in your stupid game. Don't worry, I'll be back tomorrow... you know, for more generic beatings. For now though, I'm done." With that, he turned and stalked through the door.
Sakaki stood in shock for a bit, emerald eyes wide as a bead of sweat ran down his face. His fists clenched and unclenched, body shaking as he stood there. After a moment, Endrance spoke, his eyes upon the glowing screens behind his master. "He's logged out, sir." The blade brandier said quietly as he sheathed his sword, walking back to his place.
Saku bit her lip as she vanished her own weapon. "I'm sorry, Master En... I failed... he got away." She whimpered, following after The Temptress.
Endrance, in spite of Saku's apologies, was fighting not to smile. The Haseo he had just seen... that was the Haseo he knew. He felt his heart leap at the memory of the adept rogue's glare and struggled to keep a small grin at bay as he glanced to the shocked Sakaki.
"How could he... how dare he..." Sakaki whispered, glancing down at his hands. "Do I not have all the power? Shouldn't he be... he should be bowing before me. He should be crumpled at my feet and begging for forgiveness, why does he continue to resist!?" The edge punisher roared, slamming a fist into the stone wall. "I don't understand, why!? I am superior, I am his master! Why isn't this working!?" The man's face was twisted into an expression of rage as he punched again and again at the wall, strands of forest green falling into his eyes.
"Because your control only extends over the system." A voice suddenly spoke, broken occasionally by static.
Sakaki's eyes narrowed and he glanced upward at the screen, taking in the familiar sight of a pair of gleaming, fiery orange lenses and an enigmatic smile. "Ovan!" He hissed, blackened hands clenching into fists. "This is all your fault! You didn't give me enough power, if you had I would have won by now!" He accused.
A soft laugh. "It's my fault, is it? Is that really true, Sakaki, or are you only making excuses for your lack of creativity?" Ovan asked, quirking a brow at the new master of the Serpent of Lore.
The former moon tree leader gave a growl. "Enough of your cryptic babble! Give me more power!" He demanded, sounding almost childish.
"I'm afraid I cannot do that," Ovan murmured, still smiling. "You have exhausted my resources, Sakaki. I've given you all the AIDA seeds I have to spare." He held up his empty right hand, as if to say "look, I have nothing".
Sakaki snarled. "Then what do you expect me to do!? Haseo is refusing to submit!" His eye twitched as he spoke.
Ovan smirked. "Did you really think it would be so easy to conquer the Terror of Death? I would think you would know better, Sakaki."
"He should be bending to my will on the spot! I am greater than him! I am all powerful! I have surpassed the system! I am the system!" Sakaki ranted, waving his hands dramatically. The AIDA growth on his back twitched and flared in aggravation as he spoke, the red lines twisting upon it flashing like glowing embers.
"But don't you see? That is your problem. You are only the system." Ovan drawled. "If that is the case, Haseo will always have a way to avoid you. Regardless of how deeply he is drawn into this game, his true self still lies far beyond your reach."
"Tch..." Sakaki's fists clenched. "You... you are right. But how am I supposed to defeat him, then!? How do I get what I desire?"
"How?" Ovan cocked his head to the side. "I would have thought it was obvious... if Haseo exists outside out of your influence, outside of your system, you must find a way to trap him in the system."
Emerald eyes widened. "Trap him inside the system... that's impossible... the only way to do that would be to make him a Lost One, and even if his Avatar didn't protect him from that, he would lose consciousness and thus be useless to me..." He murmured.
Once again, Ovan chuckled. "Is it impossible? Perhaps... but for one who calls himself God, one would think the impossible is easy enough."
Sakaki's jaw clenched. "Do not mock me." He hissed.
"I wouldn't dream of it," Ovan drawled. "I was merely saying... perhaps the impossible is more possible than you think."
The former Moon Tree leader eyed the screen for a moment, frowning. He hated to ask for help, he hated it... but he had no choice. He had to win, regardless of the cost. "Tell me how." He said finally.
Ovan's smirk widened, his sunglasses gleaming as he began to explain...
--
To Be Continued...