Chapter 10
...
...
I wonder how did I got myself in to this mess…
Let's see to start off, I woke up like any other day yet it seems this day is a little different.
Why?
"How dare you…" the mysterious girl mumbled with a calm yet furious tone.
"How dare you lay a hand on me!"
"Wahh!"
A girl was seriously trying to kill me!
Within a flash, the she quickly stabbed me aiming at my head but thanks to my natural reflex whenever I encounter sharp objects, I was able to dodge it that it only grazed me at my right cheek and the blade straightly stabbed to the floor.
"Hohh…" The girl surprisingly felt amazed.
"W-wait a sec let me explain"
"Silence!, I admire your beastly instinct to dodged that as a reward I'll grant you a painless death so hold still and let me cut you, you lowly Beast!"
"I didn't do anyth—"
"Elsword, it's time to get up—!"
Suddenly, Raven came in without a warning and as soon as he realized that I am not alone in my room, he only stayed silently still staring at us.
I immediately passed a stare to Raven saying 'Raven-senpai please save me!' that kind a stare
In response, Raven nodded, as he understood my message.
Thank goodness…
However, before he could manage to say something. The fox girl shuddered because she finally noticed her unfix clothe which reveal some embarrass part especially her cute undergarments. She was seen not once but twice in an awkward moment by another male.
"NOOOOO!"
With a loud scream, she cried and instantly started swinging her spear mercilessly chasing at us.
…
…
"Gome no sai…Really I'm so sorry…"
After a few painful struggles, we manage to stopped the girl going berserk around the house thanks to everyone's help.
"Calm down Ara you don't need to cry…"
Rena smiled trying to calm her down.
"B-b-ut…"
Ah…so the girl's name is Ara.
Ara Haan seems like she was gone for a whole 2 weeks due to a family ceremonial meeting.
How should I put this, she's cute well disregarding the fact that she was scary trying to kill me a moment ago yet now she's like a timid weak girl tearfully crying.
"Ouch!"
"Hold still…"
Meanwhile to my side, Eve was kindly treating my wounds with a disinfectant agent, while next to us was Chung who was doing the same treatment to Raven's cuts.
"Umm…I'm so sorry..."
Ara then timidly approached us and bowed sincerely.
"No…it's ok, you don't need to bow" I quickly relied back
"Sorry…"
This time she faced toward to Raven apologizing too.
"It's fine…"
Therefore, Ara had finally calm down.
"Well mine telling us how did you get to Elsword's room?" Chung asked
"Eh…well it's…"
…
…
After a few minutes of explaining to sum it up, Ara wanted to surprise us of her arrival, she wanted to make a great impression by preparing breakfast thus greet us 'Good morning everyone I made breakfast!' the next day and everyone will be amazed and happy or so she thought.
However, she made a big blunder last night, instead of sneaking to her room while everyone was peacefully asleep she had mistaken going to my room. Maybe Ara was so tired from the long journey that she didn't realized the differences between the first floor left corner window (Elsword's Room) to the second floor center window which her room was supposedly be there.
"Gome…"
"Like I said its ok but can I ask something?"
"Please anything!"
"Are you human?" I asked bluntly
Frankly speaking, after I've been chased around the house a while ago in came to my mind, is she really human? Having a lady-fox appearance made me curious to ask.
"Kuuh!"
Yet Ara made an offended shock, as she was about to cry again.
"Wah! Please don't cry!"
"Elsword that's quite rude!" Rena glared and scolded me
"B-But I thought she's a Kumiho…umm am I wrong?"
"Oh! Are you talking about Eun?"
"Eun?"
"Hai!, she's my best friend and my Guardian Spirit"
"Ahh…Sorry I don't understand"
"Ara is an exorcist…"
Eve diligently answered after she was done fixing me up.
"I see…"
"Umm…I know it's a bit late for introduction but, my name is Ara Haan, Nice to meet you Elsword"
"Oh right, nice to meet you too…Ara"
She bowed again politely in front of me and so I did the same thing.
"Okay! Now since everything is settled it's time for breakfast…Who's on duty today?" with a clapped, Rena called out to change the topic
"That will be me"
I quickly raised my hand.
"Elsword are you sure? from the looks of your bandages…are you sure you can cook in that condition?" Rena anxiously asked.
"No problem, I am completely fine, It's just a simple cuts but it won't stop me from making breakfast"
I showed a wryly smile, honestly speaking it was really a simple cuts. It's just happens that Eve over-exaggerated bandaging my wounds like I almost look like a mummy.
"Then can I lend a hand…" Ara shyly raised his hand as she volunteer to help.
"Well I don't mind so thanks"
Therefore, while we prepared breakfast the other group had cleaned up the mess around the house.
…
…
It's Sunday.
Even so I continued my daily training with Raven, somehow I can feel that I have improved in just a short period since I noticed I had gotten close to Raven strength during our sparing battles.
"Ok ready Elsword?"
"Hai!"
However, today training was a little different.
Since Raven notice how much I had improve, he instruct me to use my Aura(Power) of Ignis during this battle practice.
"Hwaahh!"
Without it, I won't be able to summon my Astral Weapon which is very important when it comes to a real battle so today's training is how to control it.
Unfortunately, I can't bring it out this time.
"Haa..haa.."
After a few tries I panted heavily, honestly it was so tiring I can only bring out the red blaze to my fist but I can't materialize it in to a sword like last time.
"That's enough…"
"No wait I can still go on!"
"Elsword it is important to have a break sometimes in order to conserve your energy when it comes to a decisive fight"
"…you have a point"
Raven was right, I can't stress out my mind over it or else I won't get any further, I need to relax and take my time.
Therefore, we took a short break but this time we were not alone, Chung and Ara accompanied us to observe.
"Here you go"
Ara handed over the water bottles and sandwiches on each of us.
"Chung what do you think?" After drinking, Raven asked Chung seated beside him.
"I guess it should be fine but are you sure?" Chung diligently answered.
"Is there anything wrong?" I asked.
"No there isn't, actually I was more surprise that you have improve a lot in such a short time that I think you adapted well during this passed days"
"Oh, I see…but I cannot master how to release the Ignis Core"
Even after I was praise by Raven, somehow I can't helped not be frustrated because of my weakness. I clenched my fist wondering if I am still lacking something, which is why I was not able to bring it out.
"Elsword there's no need to rush…We already plan on helping you that's why I decided to change your sparring partner this time…" Raven explained
"Huh? Who? Is it Chung?"
"Originally yes but since someone showed up early, I decided to asked her instead"
Her?
I immediately shift my sight to a lovely girl across to mine.
She quickly responded to me with a warm smile.
"I am looking forward to be your partner Elsword-san"
"Ah!, yes me too…"
I scratch my head with bitterly smile while feeling a bit bashful because this time a girl will be my sparring partner but is it ok to fight with a girl.
Although, the event last morning did impress me that she must be strong.
Meanwhile…
"Hey…Raven"
Chung whispered something to Raven.
"Are you sure that Elsword will be fine?...I have a bad feeling about this"
"You know very well that Ara is a perfect opponent for him this time, Elsword already experience facing heavy opponents like us but this time he will be facing an opponent which will exceed his limits"
"I hope so…"
"Let's just watch the two"
…
Elsword VS Ara
…
Once I walked to the middle, facing Ara in a certain distance, she bowed her head as a polite way to start, since this was a battle practice she was wielding a wooden rod, same goes for me a wooded sword.
"Ready…Battle Start!"
Raven said out the signal to begin.
Without a second waste, Ara kicks the ground and charges.
Here she goes!
She was moving so fast and soon the gapped between us shorten.
I gripped my hand preparing for any action she will make.
Then suddenly…
"Kyaa!"
With a thud sound, she fell flat to the ground.
"…"
"…"
"…"
The two audiences and I were dumbfounded for a moment.
What happen? Did I do something to make her tripped like that but I clearly sure I did not.
"A-Are you ok?" I anxiously asked while slowly walking to her.
"H-hai…Ah! Sorry please one more time!"
With a red face, Ara panicky stands up.
"O-ok…"
…
Battle Start Take 1!
After the formal bow, we started from the beginning like nothing happened.
I watched my opponent carefully, I understand that Ara was fast, faster than Raven as if she was walking in air that her feet cannot be seen touching the ground hence she had already shorten the gap between us and so I quickly raised my sword to block.
*THUNNGG* (A/N: I do not know how wooden things clash sound)
With the edge of the wooden rod, Ara thrust it against my defense.
Yosh! now it's my turn
I was now about to counter but unfortunately.
"!"
*THUNGG* *THUNNGG*
As soon as I was about to strike back a dozen of strikes followed after her first attack that it happened so fast within seconds.
"Urgh!"
"Teih!"
With a final blow, I was forced to back away from a strong impact, even if I was able to block it due to a numbers of strike my defense was complete penetrate with a strength I didn't expect to a girl.
I held my chest, the area where Ara had hit. Oddly, it didn't hurt.
Ah! No wonder…
I realized that before Ara could hit me directly, she retracted the rod thus she made a shockwave blow that causes me to back away.
Is she underestimating me?...No she only warned me not to underestimating her just because she's a girl.
Once I saw the girl smiling face, I knew that Ara warned me not to treat her as a fragile girl and fight as an equal warrior.
I smiled amusedly fascinated because my opponent was indeed strong worthy to give all I had.
Since Ara was fast, I didn't mind it as long as I can see her movement I will soon find an opportunity to catch her.
After an intense silence, I initiated to attack first.
"HYAHH!"
I roared my way dashing closer to my opponent.
At that time, Ara spins her rod and with the right momentum, she quickly parried my sword tip. Not only that she quickly turns around moving with her rod and with her strength she strike, aiming at the side of my body.
However, I reacted just in time as I shift my weight to my side downward forcing my arm to block the upcoming attack with my sword.
Therefore, I successfully defended myself but after receiving the impact, I felt that the girl was not only great on speed but her power as well that can be match below Raven or me.
The battle continued on, I blocked her attacks in which given a chance I will counter back while in contrast Ara parried and strikes continuously.
The fight was intense; I could feel the forceful blow in every strike between us.
I didn't have time to lower my guard for an instance if I did I will surely lose, it was a battle of endurance and speed but.
"Argh!"
After a few seconds, My defense had gradually become weak and eventually I got hit again, it was not because I was tired it was due to Ara's attack becoming heavy and at the same time quicker than before.
Crap!
Alas, my defense had collapse completely making me exposed on the upcoming attacks.
"Wolf Stance 2: Wind Wedge!"
Ara immediately use the open opportunity to land a strong hit at the center of my chest and quickly lead a series more combos.
"Guahh!"
With a several attack at once, I had no choice but to move away retreating from the furious strikes from Ara.
"Damn…"
It was already a second time that I was force to retreat. Ara was indeed something else, she had speed, agile and strength if I hadn't trained with Raven, surely I would have been beaten much early.
I grinned, I did not know why but it appears that I was enjoying the fight having a disadvantage situation and felt a sensation where my heart throbs in excitement on how to set a score.
While the fight was on hold, Ara was thinking the same thing.
She too was enjoying the fight because it's been a while since she fought a strong one, she was able to bring up a few percentage of her power yet she was still hesitating to go all out because this was a battle for him to learn.
Yet her inner self selfishly wanted to burst out and enjoy every inch of the battle however, Ara restraint the thought to stay patient for the prey was not ready to be devour.
"Ok then warm up is over… are you ready?"
"Of course!"
Afterwards the fight had entered the second phase.
This time they charges simultaneously and once they reach each other range they clashed their weapon with a roar sound of their battle cry .
Meanwhile…
"Amazing…"
Chung who was spectating the fight on the side with Raven was astonished from watching.
"To think that Elsword could keep up with Ara"
"…"
On the other hand, while observing the two fighters Raven was in deep thoughts
Indeed, Elsword strength is growing fast but it still not enough for him to awaken the power of Ignis
Why is that?
Is it because of Elsword is stubborn whenever he felt victory upon something his overconfidence to his own strength grows and because of it he subconsciously refuses to use the core?
I f we don't do something it will be a problem in the near future against the real enemy that will cause him to loss his life.
For now we need him to realize his own limits… actually I was amaze of his optimistic character and stubbornness to fight without relaying to the unknown power however, this will not save him from the claw of death sooner or later he must realize he is still human with limits that is why he need to surpass it.
"Actually if Ara did not came early I would have ask Rena or Eve to train with Elsword but…"
Raven frowned and made a troubled face as he stopped his words while Chung quickly understood why.
It was because.
"Elsword current state, he will be knock out in an instant before getting near them…" Chung also sighed
Elsword have no match for them, he will surely taste a bitter defeat before having battle experience however, since Ara showed up he can make an equal standing
"Rena and Eve are both range type fighters and also there speed attack are equal to Ara" Raven explained, pointing that Elsword is melee type having him going against them without proper training will only lead to one-sided fight. But when it comes to Ara, she is light melee type thus Elsword will easily learn slowly from her battle style.
"Well there is also another one that could help Elsword to control his mana (spirit energy) training in order for him to improve his power potential but unfortunately, she hasn't come back yet and I possibly think that she won't hold back regarding her teaching method…" Raven added with a trouble face
"Ah right she's merciless after all hehe" Chung made a soft giggled imagining when the time comes where Elsword will learn how to control his mana from 'Her'.
…
-Elsword POV-
Getting back to the fight, I was defeated easily.
"Arrggh!"
After getting my ass kicked, I was knock down hard to the ground
I barely can keep up, my reflexes had failed me to catch up with her incredible agile movements.
I gritted my teeth while staring the sky, my whole body ache in fatigue. Her aim was accurate through my joints that I could hardly even move.
Damn it!
"Shit!"
I cursed, to the bottom of my heart, I was furiously shaken from anger in my own weakness.
"Elsword…I guess we should end this for today"
As I heard Raven from the side, it only made me more depress.
I know this was only training but it left me a bitter taste of defeat.
I am pathetic maybe that is why Ignis core refuses to come out.
…
…-No!
The hell why am I acting weird! This is no time in reminiscing thing that will only get me more depress!
I need to get up
Even if I get beaten again and again I need to stand up after all the one thing I am good at is my sturdiness.(A/N: *cough*stubbornness…)
Therefore, I tried to stand up ignoring my bruise body to give in instead, I looked up to Raven and said.
"Wait…I can still fight"
"...Elsword clearly you can't go on there still enough time for you, for now you need to rest-"
"I refuse"
"…"
Without waiting for his permission, I once again reach out to my wooden sword raised it against my opponent.
"El wait chill down you don't need to rush things"
"Chung don't interfere me"
"B-but…"
"…Chung let him we can't change his mind" Raven shrugged, after seeing Elsword eye filled with resolve there was no way that they could make him back off.
"ha..hahaHAHAHA!"
""?!""
Suddenly, an intense laughter had broken the heavy mood.
To their shocked, it came towards to the other side—and that person was Ara.
"Huh?"
I frowned, wondering what gotten into Ara that made her laugh.
Suddenly, her jet black hair dyed into white, tails and ears appeared and her eyes were glowing wild blood red. However not only her appearance changed the aura around her also changed as well.
From the warm gentle aura, she was now leaking a killing-intent.
Soon cold sweat began to drop down to my temple as I felt fear had taken over me. However, I bit my lip hard so that I could remain composed and eventually that fear subsides.
"Huu…to think you have some vigor to continue after receiving all Ara's attack, I am quite impressed"
The mature lady-like tone of her voice which obviously opposite from Ara's clumsy yet cheery voice.
This one is Ara's other side Eun.
"T-thanks to think you praised me just because of something like this"
Paying no attention to her death stare, I simple smirked ironically.
"Oh my…have you not wanted to be praise I wonder?"
"Technically I don't mind but it will probably be best for you save it after I won"
"Oh? Are you telling me that a mere Beast like you could possibly defeat me?"
Beast? Does she still have a grudge against me because of the misunderstanding last morning?
"Fufu~…Interesting~ then entertain me to my heart content!"
After declaring war, Eun raised her hand up towards the sky then a bright light object(core) emits a strong intensive energy and for some reason the feeling was very nostalgic as if it was the same sensation during the time where I was caught inside the forest.
Not long afterward, the sky began to shatter like broken glass soon the ground was shaken hence everything was crumbling until everything was swallow into the deep abyss.
…?
Once I opened widely my eye, I instantly gasped as I saw my surrounding, the red blood moon, the silent dead forest and the eerie feeling of nothingness, the familiar scenery where it all started.
Void
A world were two parallel world overlap together to create something that should not been there but eventually exist, it was due to the power of the core intervened
Wait…I thought Void step is randomly trigger
"Ara—I mean Eun-san isn't this going overboard for you to teleport us to this place"
Chung dreadfully called out
"Hmm? I don't see any problem as to why I should not do so, for this place is more befitting battle stage and also to avoid unnecessary witnesses"
"Wait!? Don't tell me you're going to get serious!…please stop Elsword might die!"
As for I stayed silent the whole time listening to their conversation, did I just hear it right I might die!
"Chu—"
"Silent! I do not ask any of your pitiful excuse Mouse!"
I wanted to ask Chung what he meant but then Ara—Eun cut me off and by the way, did she just called Chung a Mouse.
"Chung let them be…" Raven leaked out a heavy sighed as he walks away in a certain distance to make sure he won't get involve from their selfish fight.
"But…Fine" Chung also gave up as he followed Raven.
"As expected, Raven understand" Eun pleasantly nodded afterward she stared back at Elsword baffled face
"Now shall we start Beast-kun?"
"H-hai!"
Regardless why she kept calling me that, I'll have to focus everything in to this fight.
"Then~ let's begin…"
Solance Core: Asura of The Sun
Eun piercingly shouted.
Afterwards, a mysterious light was release inside her body, and soon the bright light form an avatar spirit floated behind her.
The Avatar was a beautiful woman wear a turquoise dress with well design golden ornaments but the most eye catching was her goddess-like beauty, as the avatar appeared she started to perform kagura dance with her imperial fan.
(A/N: Kagura- if I am not mistaken it is a traditional dance for Japanese festival…please do correct me if I am wrong)
Soon Eun's casual clothes started to glow that it eventually materialize in to a white-black priestess clothes along with a long sharp spear and finally the transformation was complete.
After witness such spectacular scene, I was speechless leaving my mouth half-open. I was captivated by the avatar dress it was very well suited, her white hair, tails and ears it was like a true goddess that had descended down.
"Then shall we begin?"
"A-Ah! Yes!"
I quickly snapped out back to reality.
This is no time to admire her…she's my opponent that I need to prepare.
Nevertheless, thanks to her time transforming, I was able to take some rest not only that it seems my fear had also vanish as well.
"Then here I come"
Eventually Eun started rashes towards me.
"!"
What?
Just a blink of an eye, she was already in front of me.
"Too slow"
"Guah!"
With a power swing, that I could barely block it my balance had shaken.
I need to block again!
Since she uses the same technique with Ara I guessed I know what's going to come next, it will be a multi-strike until my defense will break and soon deliver a final strike.
However, it didn't happen.
"What!—Guh!"
From the front she suddenly reappeared at my rear side as if she just teleported—no impossible she was just too fast that my naked eye was unable to follow her movements.
As I was defenseless from the back, I got hit and was knock over again facing the ground.
"Hmm? Is that all you got?"
"Shut up I'm not done yet!"
On my knees, I slowly stood up facing my opponent once more.
"Yawwn…Honestly I thought you would put up some fight but I guess you're still weak maybe I should not bother myself to come out and let Ara play with you a little more"
Instantly a pop hot vein throbs at my temple
What's her deal! She's starting to piss me off!
If only I could draw out my sword I might have a chance, I might also teach this arrogant lady a piece of my mind too, but right now I still don't have the ability to do that.
Darn it!
"Oryahh!"
I attacked, I swing and thrust with all I could yet on the other hand Eun had easily parried it.
Darn…why can't I hit her…
I was having a hard time matching up her paced due to her agile fox-like reflex, moreover whenever I move I noticed her pointy ears twitch as if she was listening to my movement predicting where I could strike.
Isn't that cheating!
…
-Idiot getting work up will not help you
Eh?
Suddenly a very familiar voice resounded inside my head.
-Focus don't let your mind clouded with anger, close your eyes as you free your mind to every distraction.
This…
-Once you saw it, strike with everything you've got!
Sis…
Right…in the past I usually sparred with Sis, I lose to her countless times that I got very mad.
However, She always taught me not to give up both in battle and to myself.
Focus…patience…and a silent heart
Ah, it was something I forgot...
"Tsk…Sis I'm sorry…"
While in the midst of the battle, I closed my eyes clearing everything, ignoring the noises that weren't necessary only listening to the sound crashing weapons and from my mind I watch my enemy unseen movements.
Thus, I finally saw it…
I found the weakness of Eun's movement.
The moments were her movement becomes dull and slow before executing an attack. I somehow understand and quickly I opened my eyes and parried her spear with all I got.
"Hahh!"
Immediately, I stamped my foot to the ground putting every inch of force up to my arms to swing my sword with a heavy swing.
"?!"
As expected Eun blocked it, however I am far not done yet.
I pushed forward, harder and vigorously that I had finally shaken her away with my attack.
I stepped forward chasing after her not giving her the chance to retaliate back.
However, I was expecting her to be a bit worry of this situation yet Eun didn't made that face instead…She was smiling.
"Fuu~…Not bad~"
"Tsk..."
She's underestimating me…
While I fought she resist back that eventually I could feel my wooden sword could break anytime soon but
"…I wonder can you keep up."
"I don't care!"
She noticed that, well considering she didn't cut it easily with her spear, she was only concern of fighting me equally even thought I used a wooden sword, it's more better than being bare-handed.
*Crack*
"Such admirable attitude… Since you had withstand fighting to this point with only that sword… As a reward in making this far, I will grant you an honorable defeat"
"Thanks but I don't need it…HAAAHH!"
*Crack*
As my strength was at peak, I fiercely push forward entrusting my resolve to this one final swing, just once if only I could hit her only then I could accept defeat.
I know very well that it's impossible for me to defeat her now so I guess it's ok to end this…
…-Ending this will be a waste you know
Huh?
-Hehe looks like you can hear me now brat
Another familiar voice yet this time it was not from my memories instead it's from my deep conscience.
*Clangg!*
Then the unexpected clashes sounds of steel echoed and with a strong impact both of us had driven away.
"?!"
Eh?
Once I gained my senses, I glanced down to my weapon that was supposed to be a broken wooden sword but it was now the same steel-red sword I used last time.
"Congrats El you did it!"
"…"
On the distance side, Chung yelled happily while Raven showed a relief smile.
"Hmm…To think you could manage to bring it out much quicker than I anticipated…Not bad Beast-kun, with it let us end this fight since we already accomplish our goal"
Ara said while having a discontent tone.
"…"
I felt silence for a moment, truly I am happy right now but.
"Ending this would be a waste"
I somehow repeated the same words from that man but no doubt about it he was right, I shouldn't be satisfy with just one attack I should aim to defeat my enemy completely.
"Fufu~ nicely said…Then shall we continue?"
Therefore, we agreed for it is too early to end the battle without a real winner thus, we simultaneously kick the ground.
"Hahh!"
"Teihh!"
Against my attack, Eun spins her spear with countless strikes, I parried every hit and it seems not only did I acquire my weapon but also my reflexes and strength has greatly enhanced.
What?
Suddenly Eun disappeared
-Behind!
I turn around at immediately slashes hard but what I hit was her alter-image.
"Kuah!"
I groaned, not only did she manage to cunningly evade me she had also landed a scratched on my left should with a phantom like claws.
"Oh~ I was aiming at your fatal point yet you manage to dodge that, looks like you're getting a good reaction…but it is still too slow!"
Without decreasing her momentum, she rapidly dashes forward.
"Rapid Raid—"
"Gueghh!"
Again I tried to block every claws she unleash yet some had pass through that it eventually scratches me on my arms, legs and cheek.
She doesn't really hold back this time
"Fufu~"
And she's enjoying it.
Eun continued unleashing her attack just like a hungry wolf—I mean fox playing at her prey before letting out the final blow.
"Tsk…"
—What wrong?, do you need help?
Shut up!
—Ah, still stubborn are we…I was only going to give you an advice
Advice?
—How about this, even if you were hit just pretend it doesn't hurt…that's all hahaha
This damn man… What the hell is he saying, but I might as well try even if I might die.
-Iron Body(Stoic)…
"GYYAAHH"
"?!"
I charge forward putting down my sword on defense that I focus on slashing forward my way.
From the front phantom claws, I push head on against it.
It hurts!...no it doesn't hurt, It doesn't hurt!, Damn it doesn't hurt!
"HYYAAHH"
"…!"
Eun halt back from my sudden outburst assault but I didn't allow her to distance herself away from my range, I quickly dash over and manage to slash and pierce through.
"Don't get too cocky Beast!"
Eun glared at me with a fearless eyes, she then raised her hand.
"Fox's Meal!"
What the-?
From her outcry, I suddenly felt very heavy like something part of me had been pull off.
I instantly faced Eun who was staring at me with a delighted cunning smile while licking her tender lip.
"Now I'll end this –Fire Fox!"
With a great strength, she slashes forwards making me cease my attack and once I've step away, Eun's white long 9-tails started burn in flames releasing myriad spark of lights and soon it was homing at my direction.
"!"
It was the end.
…
…
Huh?
Nothing happens…I was sure I was about to get hit anytime soon but I didn't sense any pain.
Did I collapse completely?
I carefully opened my eye and saw that I was in a different place, the place was the cold dark hallway were I woke up last time where I met a strange suspicion man.
"Welcome back brat"
"You…"
"Why do you look so angry?"
"I don't know but I get really irritate whenever I'm here…so what do you want this time?"
"After helping you out, I still don't receive any gratitude"
"That's because your very suspicions in every way"
I still can't see his face, the room was dark but there were fire lamps that were place at every pillars at the hall yet something was concealing his true identity not only that I also felt he was hiding something from me that is why I am very cautious of him.
"Tell me are you the core's pre-successor? Or are you Ignis?"
A long silent, the man placed his hand to his chin while thinking.
"…In my previous life I am…but I did told myself 'I am Me'
—…and so who are you"
The man added a confusing remarked that left me puzzled.
"What are you talking about?"
"Just tell me who are you now"
"Seriously?... I am Elsword Seighart"
"I am not asking for your name brat"
"What the hell! I don't understand what you wanted to hear!"
In the shadow dim light, I could hear the man heavy sighed
"Clearly you're not ready…"
He was testing me but I still can't comprehend what he was trying to convey.
"However, soon the Dark Lord will make his move and without your Core you won't stand a chance, you might also experience the same lost like last time"
"Eh? Last time? What do you mean answer me!—Guh"
Abruptly, I felt a bad feeling…deep inside me I sense a sharp nostalgic pain that was coming back, which my head had started to ache.
"Like I said you're not ready thus I will lend you my strength"
"…?"
"My strength is not enough but as long as you maintain your resolve and deeply strengthen your bond with the others, I hopefully trust that you will never be devour by your 'Own self' thus this will accomplish what I had promise back then…a promised I made to your brave sister"
"…?! Sis?...Why is my sister involve in this! Tell me!"
"If you want to seek the answer you must live on and with that will you accept it?"
"…"
I clenched my fist silently thinking about my sister and the power of what the man kept mentioning.
I wanted to know what happen to her.
Did my dad lie to me? Deceiving me that my sister had move away overseas yet it wasn't the truth? But why?
Ah, Damn! My head is starting to hurt even more!
I don't know, I can't recall anything from my past! AH!
"So what will it be…Elsword Seighart"
"I-I accept"
I need to know
…
…
*BOOMM!*
"I-isn't that going too far Eun-san!"
Chung yelled out after the loud sound crash.
The scene had already covered with mist of dust and scattered debris.
This was only a mock battle and so how did thing go down to this, at the first place Elsword haven't master to call out his 'Sacred Avatar' while on the other hand Eun had fully materialize her own which lead to a one-sided match.
"Chung, you worry too much"
"But Raven…"
"Elsword is ok more like he finally did it"
"What?"
Dumbfounded, upon looking back Chung widened his eyes in disbelieve
At the chaotic scene, red wild flames twirling like dome shape covering the center of the battlefield that everyone shielded themselves from the heat blazing light.
…
…
'In order for you to inherit my power you must know first who I was hence my experience and my strength will pass on to you'
I see…
'Then hear me this…
I who was a gladiator sought power and justice, I who fought hundreds of warriors and achieved victory through my fierce battles. I who attained my freedom and myself…Thus I vowed eternity to protect everyone dear to me…I am
—Prime Knight: Sieghart of Ignis'
"Ignis Core: Lord Knight of Flames!"
I shouted from the deep of my lung, I rouse my voice as the wild flames around me started to gather with their burning blaze.
The furious flames soon burned my clothes but instead of turning to ashes it gradually transform in to a suit with metallic plate enhancement with formal clothe that resemble a true knight, grasping my hands, I could feel the hot burning blood that flows in my vein.
The overwhelming power that I could not imagine, without a doubt it was now on my hands.
Afterward, I raised my sword preparing for battle that I thought it was over yet right now it was still the beginning.
That's right now I will be the who will end it.
"Hmm~"
Right in front was Eun who was patiently waiting for me was smiling.
"Sorry for making you wait"
"…I don't mind as long as you can entertain me"
"Then I will—Hahh!"
"Fufu~ Finally!"
…
…
And so the final round began.
As the battle continued, Eun swiftly dashes in different direction making me confuse on where she will strike.
"Teihh!"
"…!"
I blocked it easily but then she evaded my counter-attack.
She's really quick. However, since I can't catch her then I'll just—
"Armageddon Blade!"
"…?!"
Eun was surprised she didn't expect that my sword could transform into a massive astral blade.
"Hehe now it's my turn since I can't hit you I'll just randomly slash everywhere—HYYAAHH!"
"I-Impossible!"
With the long range of my sword, I swing it to every direction chasing Eun. I could tell she was having difficult to dodge the massive blade limiting her footing ground.
"…Don't you know you can't hit me with just that Beast-kun"
"Seriously why do call me that I have a name beside you are more of a beast than me"
"H-How dare you comparing a Beautiful Deity such as myself to a beast… you lowly pervert Beast!—Fox Fire!"
"Again it's was a misunderstanding!—Tsk"
Somehow, I barely cut down does annoying sparks yet some manage to land a hit.
Ah!
"Fufu~ you let your guard down—Specter of Blade!"
"Damn!"
*Clangg!*
After I blocked her attack, she quickly dashed away.
Damn I'm getting nowhere if this goes on—Oh that's right how about this.
"Triple Geyser!"
Upon applying some power from the Core, I smashed the blazing sword to the ground making an eruption of three huge fiery geyser of flame fountain that my surrounding was blow away.
After the flames subside, I looked around in search for any sign of Eun.
She was gone…
No she's…
From the sky Eun was gliding downward, her tails were widely spread that were emitting a brilliant light, she managed to evade to the sky without a burn.
"Not bad!"
She quickly descends in such incredible speed, kicking the air like it was a solid ground that swiftly rushing towards me.
I grinned
"…!"
Eun got surprised maybe because she notices that I already predicted her to jump up to the sky in order for her to avoid the blast and then with the right time she will come to me.
Straightly speaking I lured her in…
"Interesting~"
"HAAHH!"
"TEIHH!"
…
…
"El, you ok"
Eh?
What happen?
Once I got to my senses, I was already lying on the ground facing the sunset sky.
I did not remember what happen after we crashed but it seems like we return back to our world.
"Here…"
At my side, Chung offered me a hand to stand up.
"Did I lose?" I asked
"No, It's a draw"
Chung gently smiled while helping me up.
Then I gradually look at the opposite side, Eun who was still not transforming back was looking at me with an anxious face.
We both returned to our casual clothes, which mean the battle had already ended but how did it came to a draw?
Anyway, It would be better to leave it. Therefore, despite being so tired I gradually walked and halted in front of her.
"…Yes?"
She glared
Is she still mad?
"Umm…Thanks for everything"
I thought if it wasn't for this fight maybe it will take a considerable time for me to grow this much but thank to her harsh training I was able to achieved it.
Therefore, I offered a friendly handshake.
"…It was a nice fight"
In return, Eun reluctantly grabbed my hand.
"Then please next time, I look forward for a rematch" I chuckled
"Oh~ so do I"
Hmm…She surprisingly let out a gentle smile. Come to think of it once I get better look at her she really is beautiful especially her pointy fox ear and tails were adorable whenever they move, I wonder if their soft to touch…Eh? it hurts…Ah it hurts!
"Just a warning if you ever lay a hand on 'Us', I will cut you into pieces…Is that clear Beast-kun?"
"H-hai…"
Scary…I really need to be careful with her.
Afterward, she let go of my hand after gripping it tightly, I thought my hand was going to break.
"Psst…El"
"…?"
"Looks like Eun-san has taken a liking on you~hehe"
"Huh? What do mean Chung clearly she hates me"
"Well when you collapse somehow she was worried about you…truth is she doesn't easily trust men"
"Hooh… really?"
"Fuu~ can I ask what do you mean Mouse-kun?"
With a twitch from her ears, Eun easily heard us whispering to each other that made her glaring at us.
"No…we weren't talking anything!"
"Your deceitfulness is futile, I could hear quite clearly you know~"
"Sorry…"
Chung apologized and since I'm curious I wanted asks Chung about it
"What's with the nicknames?"
"Umm…apparently Eun has a habit to give guys animal names, well just don't mind it"
"I see…wait what about Raven"
"…"
Come to think of it, Raven isn't here…did he left already?
"…*cough* Then I'll excuse myself"
Hmm?
With an instant, Eun glowed and soon her appearance changes back to a black hair girl Ara.
Ara blinked twice while looking at me with a perplexed face then…
"G-G-Gome no sai!"
She cried while bowing her head repeatedly.
…
…
After some conversation, the two decided to head first to the Student Council to report back the great news about my growth and some other things.
Thus, I came home alone.
Ah finally!
Since no one is home except for me, I thought of taking advantage of going to the bath first as I needed to wash my heavy exhaust body.
As I went towards the bathroom a flash of déjà vu appeared in my head.
Weird, I don't understand why but I felt a very bad feeling is going to happen.
"Whatever…" I shrugged as I ignore it and was about to reach the doorknob.
"Huh?"
It opened by itself from the inside, not only that a figure with hot steams came out.
"Fuuh~"
A girl came out from the bathroom with a refreshing face.
Eh? Wait, a girl?
"…?"
Once the girl saw me, she froze in place like a statue.
Shit!, this is bad I need to say something fast!
"Umm…Hello?"
Ah, what a stupid thing to say!
"…He-he-he-hen-t-t—"
Meanwhile the girl began to panic that her words were shaken from her trembling mouth.
I need to calm her first and explain—!
"HE-HENTAI!"
Unfortunately, before I could let out my voice a strong rapid jab hit me on my face.
Before I realized it, I was punch with such a great force that I slammed on the opposite wall and then fell face flat on the ground.
However, my misfortune didn't end just yet.
While I was still agonized and confused.
*STAMP*"HENTAI!...*STAMP*… HEANTAI HENTAI!" *STAMPP!*
She quickly gave me a foot stamps on my head…3 times!
Honestly, if this are done to a normal person they would definitely have a head concussion.
"Stop-!...Hold on-!"
I cried while I was trying to raise my head and my voiced, while I was being mercilessly pound.
"Shut up! Die already you pervert!"
"Wait—Ugh"
*STAMP*
*STAMP*
*STAMP*….
…
…
Stamp…
I didn't know how many times did my face had kissed the floor but finally it stopped…I almost thought I was really going to die. I did struggle but in the end she didn't listen to me that I ended up taking it all…Iron Body(Stoic)…
*Pant* Pant…*
The girl finally calmed down which only a rough breathless sound can be hear from her then after a few second she deeply inhale and quickly glanced the 'thing' under her foot.
"Hmm…?"
While observing the half-dead body of the culprit, she widened her eyes upon realizing who it was.
"El?...El-Elsword?"
Uncertain, the girl asked with a shock tone that she immediately removed her foot on the red haired youth.
…Did she just call me?
As a responds, I looked up.
"Eh?"
Still in pain, I thought I was having a delusion.
"A…Aisha?"
That's right I know this girl, the soft wet lavender hair falling down to her shoulders, the cute child-like face that I remember and a petite body wrap within the white towel.
Hmm?
Ah, from this view I realized I could see her thigh from the shade of her towel that instantly I got reddened speechless that quickly averted my gaze away and switch to see Aisha's face which seems like it was turning into a blushful red tomato…maybe she noticed ….Oh Shit!
"Ba-baka! Don't look!"
*STAMP*
"Bmff!"
After the heart-warming meeting, I was reunited with my long lost childhood friend Aisha…
…
…
End to be cont…
A/N: Confuse? Sorry…
Anyway thanks for waiting :D