A/N: This chapter is pretty much the conclusion of the battle between everyone and the creatures who assaulted Mirie while leaving devastation in their wake. There is also more focus on particular characters along with their trials while dealing with the beasts. So, expect more focal points on those perspectives as opposed to the spread-out attention that was given in the previous chapter. Certain aspects needed addressing that ended up becoming vital to the plot-line while another element that was planned long ago was an essential part of this chapter. So, you will see a somewhat different approach to how this chapter was laid out.
All in all, who wins the fight is determined here.
Thanks to Sweet(s) Dreamer for her time betaing this chapter as well. She has done an amazing job. ❤️❤️
Summary: The battle between human and beast reaches a new hight, leading one side to reevaluate their strategies along with the dangers presented, while the other believes their victory is ensured. In the midst of a heated fight, one person learns what it means to underestimate their opponent, while another one resorts to drastic consequences to turn the tide. It's an encounter that will be forever etched into memory.
The night had worn on, and the creatures had shown no sign of stopping. An exceeding number of them kept inching out of the foliage, their massive bodies shifting like a lubricous sea, its flow perpetual and unchanged. For many of the fighters, it was grueling and immoderate, the amount of strain from the constant exertion was draining them slowly. Even the Spiders were looking weary.
It was something that didn't go unnoticed by the beasts, and they were quickly able to sense the dramatic shift in power. For them, it was just about withstanding their opponent. Keeping the humans on the verge of a breakdown was one way to languish them, and leaving the beasts all but assured in their sovereignty. Yet, the battle raged on, neither side willing to back down or submit.
Determining a victor would be left to which side turned out to be the strongest. Which only fueled everyone's resolution as the need to vanquish the creatures remained firm.
While dealing with the beasts had become increasingly tiresome for the Spiders, and even the Zodiacs, one out of their makeshift group was finding the conflict relatively arousing. For Hisoka, combating the most tenacious adversaries possible only gave him the greatest thrill. It was more than interesting to encounter such fascinating beasts, but with how formidable they were being, it only enticed him.
Hisoka watched them with growing enthusiasm. Their expressions were enough for him to continue motivating them into advancing. He even smiled, clearly showing his defiance, but also the willingness he had in taking them all head-on.
As the creatures furthered their approach, the crazed magician's eyes appeared to come alight with practical desire, a twisted, sadistic grin was on his pale lips, albeit the odds before him. Hisoka had long since adapted to using physical confrontation as opposed to relying on his Bungee Gum. Which as annoying it was, he still found entertainment in landing connective attacks using fists and kicks alone.
Even after the beasts had formed a ring around the parameter in which he stood, such a tactical maneuver didn't disturb him. Being closed off by such powerful adversaries made the experience so enthralling that it outweighed any risks there may have been. He stood fully erect, gaze trained on each creature around him as they advanced slowly, all the while provoking them into attacking. "Come on and fight me." Hisoka taunted.
One of the creatures bore its fangs and dove at him, claws raking the ground as it did so. Without moving, he waited until the very moment before the beast could impact his body and dodged, then thrust one of his heeled boots down into the creature's side, successfully forcing it to the ground. The beast got up almost immediately and made a second attempt, but Hisoka countered with an uppercut to the bottom of the creature's head. It flew straight up before crashing down with a sickening thud.
Hisoka stepped apathetically over the fallen body just as another one hissed then rounded on him, the creature's incisors flashing before nearly making contact with his face. Swiftly, he grabbed both sides of its muzzle and twisted before sending it flying into a nearby tree.
Straightening himself, the magician's lips suddenly curved downward, and a bored expression started to crawl over his features. He expected more of a fight than what he was currently receiving. The beasts were becoming way too easy to defeat. Hisoka placed his hands on his hips, posture nearly offensive.
"Is that all?" He questioned in disappointment. At first, the battle between him and the enormous creatures seemed promising - now, it was just unpleasant.
Each of the beasts growled lowly at him in response, their pelts ruffling as the red along their bodies stood out in stark contrast to the darkness around them. One took a step forward, malice raging in its blank eyes. "You dare mock us?" Its voice chaffed in Hisoka's mind, yet he merely hummed in response.
His nonchalance was enough to invoke a volatile response, and it jolted forward head-on, jowls parted and intending to taste blood leaving Hisoka barely any enough time to counter. Thrusting one of his hands outward, the magician made a snap decision and attempted to grapple onto its ebony pelt.
Before his fingers could manage to curl within the soft fur, the beast turned abruptly and came up directly at his face, the tips of its fangs barely missing his flesh. Quickly, Hisoka countered with his other hand, the palm managing to crush against its throat as he forced his nails to penetrate down into the beast's tough hide.
Warm liquid trickled down over his pale skin in rivulets, the crimson flow housing a more rancid smell than a metallic one. The edges of Hisoka's lips curled upward as the creature in his grasp began to twist and wither in pain, the malice in its eyes only growing more incensed the tighter he squeezed. Gradually the beast ceased struggling and then breathed its last.
"Not so tough now, are you?" Hisoka droned as he tossed the body aside, then examined the remnants of the creature's blood which coated his fingers. Seeing it nearly mesmerized him and Hisoka couldn't help the thread of exhilaration he felt. At least the beasts didn't bore him after all.
The magician gave his hand a flick as he tried to remove the fluid staining it when a sharp sensation of pain suddenly lanced up his left leg. Hisoka glanced back over his shoulder to see that another one of the creatures had managed to fully latch onto his calf. He merely watched the beast with almost complete disinterest then attempted to dislodge it when the beast's jaws suddenly clamped down. The next thing to happen was the resonating sound of bone splintering.
In all his years of fighting, Hisoka had never succumbed to such a devastating injury. He had lost limbs before, but only preemptively. This time, in his moment of imprudence and brief lapse in defenses, Hisoka realized he acquired more than he bargained for.
This time, he began to take things a little more seriously. "Well, well, I see you monsters actually have guts after all." He vocalized in a derisive tone, the intensity within Hisoka's eyes only increased, and he reached around to grab the beast's head. As he did so, another melanoid body crept from the shadows and sunk its fangs into his arm, the beast's saliva causing the wounds inflicted to feel like they were burning. A flash of surprise wavered over Hisoka's features before it was replaced by his usual mask of passiveness. "Very impressive. Didn't think any of you had the compunction to attack me with such gusto." He commented in near praise as he had to hand it to them. The beasts were marvelous, indeed. "However, I don't plan on dying just yet," Hisoka added almost vibrantly and prepared to rip his arm from the creature's chops when he was abruptly stopped.
It took time for him to even fully register what was going on, as the adrenaline Hisoka had begun to feel practically overwhelmed his senses. One thing that he was never able to overcome was the aspect of becoming easily overzealous. The perpetual lull to fight was always the center point of his focus. Acceptance of things for what it was, or even the truth, Hisoka found difficult to accept. Sometimes the fantasy was fun.
He tried to be prudent, astute, and decisive, always following his gut instinct or intuition without ever second-guessing, the results never proving him to be wrong. It left him feeling confident, militant, and retentive, the assurance Hisoka had with his skills and abilities left him believing he stood above the rest.
This time, he was proven just how wrong that philosophy was.
Incredulity crawled over Hisoka's demeanor when the full magnitude of his situation actually managed to hit, and the magician's gaze landed on his other arm, the wrist now entirely encompassed by the protracted fangs of another beast. Not once had Hisoka ever remembered being left so susceptible before, his carefully guarded defenses quickly brought tumbling down like a house of cards. The reality astonished even him.
No mercy was given it seemed as the beast's intentions were clear in their militaristic advantage and bellicose nature. There was so much potential, and they were strong indeed, but to end up on the receiving end with no apparent outlet didn't make Hisoka any more optimistic.
Every shred of temerity he had evaporated the moment when the beasts that latched to his arms began to violently pull opposite of where he remained felled. They were intent on ripping them clean from his body. Ignoring the pain this time was ineffectual. Hisoka grunted from the unfathomable strain.
"How does it feel to be left completely defenseless?" Another voice clawed into his mind, and Hisoka lifted his head up to meet the cruel gaze from another beast as it came within a few centimeters from his face. "To know that you die here?" Its voice rumbled, taunting, and ridiculing. The creature paused and tilted its head, though it was more analytically than thoughtfully as if Hisoka was a lamb being examined for the slaughter. "For a human, you are exceptional."
Hisoka tried to keep his expression stoic, and unwavering, but it was hard to conceal the fact he was concerned. Sweat coated his brow. "You have a rather good assessment, then." The magician stated, voice even. "I take full pride in the skills which I possess," Hisoka added, the smirk returning to his face once again. "However, as I said before, I don't plan on letting my life end here."
When the last word slipped past his lips, Hisoka began to jerk forward as he mustered every ounce of strength in an attempt to wrestle himself free from the creatures' grip. If he lost his limbs in the process, well, no matter, as he could always bribe Machi to reattach them as she had done before.
Going to the extremes was something that he had never excluded doing. This was one of those times.
It took everything Hisoka had just to gain what little progress he did as the flesh on his arms began to rip apart from the sheer force alone. But the beasts responded in kind as they countered by pulling again in the opposite direction, making Hisoka's efforts almost trivial.
Blood streamed down his skin and pooled onto the ground beneath him from the wounds sustained by not only the creature's wicked teeth but also from the decimation of his flesh. The pain was starting to grow insurmountable, and even Hisoka couldn't repress the grunts which escaped his throat.
"It seems you are in no position to deny what fate has bestowed upon you." He looked up as the words entered his mind and came face to face with yet another beast, but it seemed massive compared to the others. Even the horn which it sported was more elongated while the stripe which ran the length of its body appeared a deeper red. Just like the color of blood. Even the beast's eyes seemed to resemble blazing infernos. It stalked closer, the tip of the creature's snout mere centimeters from Hisoka's face and he was able to smell its putrid breath. "Such insolence. How you continue to resist, even though you cannot escape the outcome. You humans really are foolish."
Knowing the tide had turned and not in his favor made the circumstances Hisoka faced seem bleak. Meeting the creature's eyes, his own yellow ones burned with a desire he had not felt in a long time, and it caused his own bloodlust to heighten. The sensation was so powerful, nearly every head turned in his direction. Even Hisoka's lips curled back, revealing the pointed teeth that resided within.
Let the damned infernal creatures believe they had beaten him. It would be a cold day in hell before he would allow himself to be overcome so easily.
Hisoka's expression turned maniacal. "You seriously think this is the end for me? That I will just accept the cards which you have dealt?" He questioned, voice dark and menacing. "Then you have grossly underestimated what I am capable of." Abruptly and without warning, Hisoka struggled once again as he resisted the bonds which restrained him and the creatures' fangs sunk deeper into his flesh as a result.
The odds were stacked against him, which Hisoka was more than aware of, especially with the gamble he was about to make. Not that he was keen on using his trump card, but even if he was about to make a last-ditch effort, there was no way he was going to simply roll over and give in.
Trying to concentrate had proven to be difficult while the beasts were attempting to dismember him, but Hisoka kept his focus solely on attaching his Bungee Gum to any nearby physical objects.
If his own abilities couldn't directly connect with the creatures, then items found amid their surroundings could.
He would manipulate anything inanimate into becoming a weapon and use it to bring down the opposition however necessary. At the current, between his shredded arms and mangled leg, there wasn't much Hisoka could do directly, but he didn't plan on just surrendering. Not once had he ever conceded to anyone, including his rivals, and enemies. Hisoka wasn't about to start now.
Progressively he affixed his Bungee Gum to whatever items in the area he could reach. Branches, rocks, even the weapons of others - which he considered borrowed, stolen or otherwise - and carefully constructed an intricate web of lethal projectiles. As he was about to secure the last object in his carefully laid out plan, the demeanor of the beast in front of him changed unexpectedly, and it growled in warning, which caused the other creatures that were detaining him to stop their momentum and in a coordinated effort, they jerked his arms forward.
Its eyes flashed with deadly venom. "You're up to something." The beast communicated mentally, but Hisoka kept his expression unreadable as he maintained a collected facade. He knew the creature was suspicious. "I can see it in your eyes."
Unperturbed by the threat, Hisoka kept his gaze on the creature's own, the breath it emanated was even more prominent than before. It was sickening and had the smell of death. The aspect was something he was accustomed to, but unlike the kind he was familiar with, Hisoka was certain these creatures ate their enemies.
"Is that so?" He rebutted, voice indifferent. "What do you suppose I could be doing? As you can see, you have me bound." The magician furthered and waved his hands around as a gesture.
The creature watched him critically while he attempted to use the maneuver as a distraction, but when Hisoka managed to tie off the remaining lines and connect them to the main string he was holding, the beast spurred forward without any inclination or warning and took hold of his hand between its crushing jowls.
Everything came to a standstill, time appearing to move in slow motion and the next thing Hisoka became aware of was the searing pain lacing up his arm. The sensation was mind-numbing, and his vision swam, which left him unable to suppress the sharp groan that slipped past his lips. It was crushing, debilitating and between breathless pants, it took the magician what felt like eons before he was able to regain his senses long enough to ascertain what even happened.
A cold sensation soon followed as numbness began to set in, and when Hisoka looked down at his wrist, all that remained was a bloody stump. It took several moments before cognizance kicked in, and he finally understood the full magnitude of his situation. Hisoka's eyes traveled towards the beast that stood in front of him, and shock took over. Between the beast's jaws sat his hand, a satisfied look on its face. Crimson had painted its pitch black fur.
"This is the price you pay for your insolence." It uttered antecedently then consumed the severed appendage eagerly. A thin rivulet of blood trailed down the side of its maw before dripping to the ground below, malevolence shining within its empty eyes. The very aspect made Hisoka shiver, although very little was able to intimidate him.
Several moments passed before he was able to speak. "Impressive." Hisoka panted but tried to remain composed, his expression ever defiant. "But do you seriously think that maiming my body will be able to stop me?" His voice became dark, insidious, and he summoned every ounce of strength left within his already wounded body. Although the pain was considerable, his limbs weak and protesting from the strain as blood coated his skin, Hisoka didn't let such limitations vitiate him. Instead, he was impelled to bring about an end to the game he was forced to play, and as the adrenaline started to pump through his veins, the magician used every ounce of momentum possible to dislodge himself from the creature's grips.
Again, his body tried to revolt, sweat coating his flesh as the pain continued to hamper him, but Hisoka quickly used his remaining hand to tug on the lines he connected previously and a hail of objects assailed the beasts, crushing them all beneath their massive weight. Hisoka grinned not only in relief but also at the success of his attack.
The vibration and noise of the event brought an abrupt cessation to the rest of the battle around him, and practically every head turned in Hisoka's direction. Even the creatures looked astonished by what they saw.
"Guess I was the one to win after all," Hisoka tittered, excitation in his voice. "That was rather interesting despite the outcome." The magician hummed and flexed the fingers of his remaining hand. He gave the missing one a brief look of scrutiny before turning away to look around the battlefield. All eyes were turned to him, and it made the smirk on Hisoka's lips widen.
"What the hell was that you stupid clown?" Phinks shouted, his stance suggested he was ready to pummel the next beast that was to attack him.
Hisoka merely shrugged. "Just having fun over here." He responded sarcastically, and Phinks only frowned.
"Damn bastard." He uttered. "Always getting off on fighting. Especially these creatures." Phinks spit off to the side as a result.
"And this surprises you how?" Feitan commented, the expression on his face more blase than not. "You should know that is how he is."
Phinks tched and turned his attention away from the wretched magician. "Yeah, no need to remind me." The very thought made the eyebrowless man want to vomit. Everything about Hisoka was unnerving.
He could even tell that it was a mutual feeling amongst his comrades as a similar expression was on practically every face he could see. Although it appeared the same for the rest as well, a vein of realization hit when Phinks noticed just how close they all were to one another. Upon further observation, he saw that some of his comrades were behind him as well, not a beast between them. It appeared as if they had been pushed into a ring. During their tussle, they had been slowly pigeonholed as the beasts intended to besiege them all along.
It irritated him that they were all so easily duped by a pack of beasts that were hellbent on nothing aside killing and to think it happened unbeknownst to him or anyone else for that matter only infuriated him further.
From what he could tell by the demeanor of his allies, they had reached the same conclusion. It was evident in their postures along with the expressions of whose faces he could see. Even the blasted Zodiacs had fallen victim to the tactic as well. Then Phinks noticed someone was missing, or rather a few someones. He narrowed his eyes but was unable to locate the Chain User or his friends.
There was a faint trace of their Nen mixed in with the coalescing auras of those close by, but none of them were physically present. Phinks became suspicious by the notion, but at least the brat was still alive from what he could sense.
Snarls and hisses from the beasts drew his attention off his thoughts and back onto them. Finding the Chain User was pertinent as Phinks wanted to be sure the young man wasn't going to betray them, but at the current, eradicating the creatures took precedence. He gritted his teeth; there were so many unknown factors, and with their current situation, it only made things more complicated. For the Chain User's sake, he had better not be planning on turning against them.
If such were to happen, Phinks decided to kill him regardless of how their Danchou felt about the man.
The beasts began to gradually advance on them, each one had their fangs bared and eyes gleaming with animosity, just the very essence they exuded made Phinks shiver. He inadvertently felt himself stepping back as more came up behind the others, the mass of bodies creating a sea of ebon darker than the night itself. Machi and Nobunaga had also taken a few steps back, and he could hear the Samurai muttering curses under his breath. It was clear they all felt inundated; the beasts were relentless in their pursuit.
Relying on physical attacks had begun to wear them down. No amount of stamina any of them possessed was enough, the creatures just kept coming. Sooner or later, they would all become overwhelmed.
Once again, the situation looked bleak, and Phinks had started to wonder if they would survive the night. At the current rate, none of them would live to see the sunrise. He could see the worry etched on his Danchou's face at the very notion.
Nevertheless, giving up was not an option. The same resolution was on practically every visage Phinks looked at. Whatever the circumstances, they would do so in spite of possible death. It was just one of the codes they lived by as being part of the Spider. Ceding to the enemy - or any enemy - was a major disgrace. Phinks's lips twisted in detest.
Perhaps they lacked a moral code, but there were still rules to uphold. Such was derived from the moment Chrollo contrived the Genei Ryodan. If anything, they would fight, if not for themselves, but for the Spider itself.
He, like the rest of his comrades, despite their differences, would see that through. Doing what was best for the Spider was all that really mattered.
The contemplation was heavy in Chrollo's eyes, although the threat in which they faced was tremendous. To a fault, his spiders could be disjointed, but today, it seemed like they were all mentally connected. The wavelength they all sat on felt relatively the same.
Several times he was able to perceive in part, what the others were doing, which in truth, was a rarity. Today, however, was a different story. He could sense the determination in them, and from the brief times Phinks had cast glances his way, Chrollo was able to tell he had no intention of backing down. The symbolism made him grin - it was another reason why the Genei Ryodan were strong.
They never failed to prove his confidence in them. Chrollo always knew they were the best Meteor City had to offer.
Each moment that passed lessened the chances of them surviving the night, yet, Chrollo didn't want it to end here. Not now and not this way. There had to be some way of besting the creatures that continued to assail them. As endless it seemed, how many of them could there really be? Only a few hundred could have possibly been bound within the city's walls.
The details of the beasts' origins would be something to glean information on later. First, they needed to vanquish their enemy. Chrollo glanced around the surrounding area once more and noticed all his companions were present except four.
Kurapika and his friends were nowhere in sight. His lover had either run off someplace or had gotten isolated from the rest of them. A vein of worry surfaced, and Chrollo prayed that Kurapika was safe. It wasn't that he didn't hold faith in the Kurta's abilities, but knowing just how resilient the beasts were is what concerned him. Hopefully, Kurapika and his friends were holding up. The thought of losing the blond was something Chrollo didn't want to think about.
He tried to push his worries aside and focus on the situation before him. The creatures were closing in, and any chink in defenses could prove to be detrimental.
Chrollo poised himself, palpably ready for whatever onslaught the creatures would provide when the sound of a commotion off to the side captivated his attention. He turned to witness Phinks and Nobunaga charging straight into the horde of beasts, the eyebrowless man wildly punching at the massive bodies while the Samurai hacked away at them.
Machi watched them with a look of unease. From her own assessments, rushing in blindly would only yield disastrous consequences. She knew Phinks and Nobunaga were brash, but with how reckless they were acting, it only added to the concern she felt. Their impulsiveness could possibly hold ramifications for them as a whole.
She hissed between her teeth. "Don't be so hasty!" Machi yelled, her hands up as she prepared to launch her threads at the beasts should they advance on her. It wasn't long before the closest ones turned their attention in her direction, and Machi felt herself stiffen. Those damn fools would get them all killed.
"I am not about to sit here and let them pick us off." Phinks shot back as he landed another punch against a creature that tried to amputate his arm. It crumbled to the ground before him.
To his side, Nobunaga brought his sword down against the neck of one of the creatures as he severed it cleanly from the body. It buckled instantly. "I'll be damned if I allow myself to become food for these cursed things," Nobunaga intoned and thrust his blade forward to skewer the next beast that darted at him. It tried to retaliate but the Samurai cleaved the rest of the way through its midsection before it could, and it ceased to move after that.
More beasts approached, their stances impending.
"Fools," Feitan sibilated and unsheathed his own blade, from the umbrella which he carried. The stout man attempted to join the fray, but a few creatures turned on him and prevented his progress. He snorted and positioned his sword before him, eyes narrowing.
The rest of the Spiders motioned forward to join their comrades - even Shalnark looked overly eager as he readied his antenna - but Chrollo stopped them, his arm held outcast. "Wait." He commanded, and they stopped. All their eyes turned onto him, yet only the Zoldyck child appeared implicit.
"But Danchou," Shalnark frowned. He still wanted to experiment with his skill. Perhaps with enough tries, he could get them to work. "We can't just sit here and do nothing." He stated.
Similar responses followed as other Spiders nodded to Shalnark's statement. It still didn't sway him. "I know. However, it's best to not jeopardize us all. These creatures are not simply mindless animals, as they have already proven. To belittle them now could prove to be adverse. We are already at a disadvantage."
A frown crawled over Shalnark's visage at the response, but he said nothing more to refute their leader's decision.
"Danchou's right," Franklin chimed in, his hulking frame almost barely visible within the darkness, "there is no need for all of us to be put in unnecessary danger. Let them handle it for now. We have to reassess what our options are."
There was a concession of nods, and the Spiders remained where they stood, watching Phinks, Nobunaga, and Feitan as they endeavored to subdue the creatures. At first, it appeared as if they were making headway and the situation was turning in their favor, but then a group of the beasts abruptly flanked them at once, and they were quickly subjugated. Phinks immediately looked outraged.
"Damn it you bastards." He snapped, fists tightening until the knuckles became white. "I am not about to let you stop me." Phinks raised his arm, though he felt some tension from overuse, and was prepared to bring it down on the beast closest to him. The snickers and heckling from them entered his mind, which succeeded in making Phinks more incensed.
"It's futile to resist. Why do you continue to fight?" One of them mocked.
"Give up already. This is only a foolish attempt at something you cannot win." Another taunted, its voice chafing.
Without hesitation, they closed in, ready to converge on the humans to attack when something silvery lashed between them. It whipped viciously, the metallic surface glimmering beneath the pale moonlight as it coiled without mercy around the beasts closest to its reach. Instantly, the object pulled taut with immeasurable force before slicing through their bodies without care. The creatures dropped after that, or what was left of them did.
Fluidly, it did the same with the rest of the beasts surrounding the three Spiders, the metallic expanse becoming coated in slick crimson, rendering them asunder without a moment's hesitation.
Phinks looked utterly dumbstruck while Nobunaga and Feitan appeared inquisitive, yet it was hard to decipher the stout man's exact demeanor from behind his mask. His eyes, however, were more speculative.
"What the hell just happened?" The man blurted, shock still within his voice.
Lowering his sword, Feitan observed the remnants of the creatures that laid on the ground before them. "Good question." He answered.
The rest of the Spiders shot glances at each other, absolute confusion on their visages as they tried to assess what happened. Machi, on the other hand, was theorizing. Chrollo had watched the entire scene unfold, and unlike his subordinates, he knew instantly what the cause of the beasts' downfall was. The Genei Ryodan leader hadn't expected him to make such a grand entrance, but it appeared his lover had managed to rejoin them and did so with such ferocity.
Stepping forward slightly, he grinned. "What a way to make yourself known," Chrollo said quietly, and although his grey eyes were positioned forward, he could see Machi peer at him questioningly. Her reaction only made the grin on his face expand. "Oh, you will see what I am talking about soon enough." The thought crossed his mind.
From the shadows, a male figure appeared, the silvery objects from before whipped and twisted like serpents around his body. An unearthly-like glow emanated from him as it shimmered with his movements while his eyes glowed a bright, vibrant scarlet. A look of abhorrence was on his countenance.
"The Chain User," Nobunaga stammered, and he raised his sword to point it directly at Kurapika. "What gives you the right to interfere?"
Kurapika turned from the macabre scene to face the Samurai, his eyes were almost impassive. "You were being cornered and looked overwhelmed, so I stepped in to give aid." He said cooly. Three more figures appeared at his side.
More of the beasts stepped forward, and Gon launched at them, with Killua behind him as the two boys landed connective punches to their jowls, the force causing bones to splinter in the process. The creatures ceased moving, and both Gon and Killua took the opportunity to end them altogether.
Gon straightened then his eyes landed on Nobunaga. "We came to help." He stated frankly as he flexed his fist. "And isn't Kurapika your comrade now? Since he decided to join you guys."
There was a pause as Nobubaga's frown only deepened, yet, unfortunately, the kid made a valid point. Not only were they getting browbeaten, aiding one another in difficult situations was a factor to ensure success. More importantly - as much as he hated to admit it - Kurapika was one of them now, although he had yet to receive his tattoo. The very notion still left an acrid taste in Nobunaga's mouth.
It was a truth that could not be denied, much to his dismay.
"Yeah, don't you want to keep from having your heads snapped off?" Killua stated. The look in his silver eyes was practically intimidating. "Or would you rather fight all of the beasts alone?"
"Damn it," Phinks murmured and clenched his fist tight again. "Not like we aren't fucking capable of handling ourselves."
"Of course you are," Leorio suddenly interjected and Phinks along with Nobunaga and Feitan looked at him askance. The lanky man simply grinned at them. "Sorry. Just stating facts." He added boldly.
"I highly advise you don't go and piss me off," Phinks warned, and Nobunaga came up beside him, fingers tightening on the hilt of his sword.
"It's best that you listen." The Samurai added, warning in his tone.
A flash of chains coursing between them brought all four men to an instant halt, and Kurapika stepped forward, eyes closed before he reopened them. The pressure in the air around the younger man intensified. "Enough." He commanded, his eyes flaring a brighter scarlet. They shone like rubies in the night. "Fighting will only leave us open to defeat. I said I would prove myself, and I intend on seeing that through." Following his words, the creatures collectively turned their attention on him, and their fangs spoke of the desire to spill his blood.
In a flurry of movements, the surrounding beasts attacked and Kurapika went on the offensive as his chains pivoted before him in a feverish onslaught. His chains struck ruthlessly, each one impacting savagely as their cold, unforgiving surfaces ripped through sable pelt with little effort.
Kurapika's progression incited the beasts to swarm, and he responded by increasing the flow and intensity of his Nen. His force and accuracy improved the longer he remained in his Specialist state, and as each of the creatures focused their aim on him, the Kurta felled each one with relative ease. Although Nen wasn't directly affecting them, the level of potency he was able to instill into his physical attacks was enough to ultimately bring them down.
He kept his assault up until the last one that tried to storm him was felled, and the remaining beasts desisted from their incursion. Bodies were scattered about the area en mass, blood soaking the ground. Kurapika's Nen abruptly ceased flowing the moment his body weakened, and his knees gave out, causing him to go down to the sodden earth beneath him.
Seeing Kurapika go down made Chrollo rush to his lover's side as he scooped the young Kurta up into his arms. Kurapika's face appeared more pallid then he had ever remembered it being, and concern laced his features. It was the second time he had recalled seeing Kurapika this drained, almost as if his life was about to exit him entirely. The last time it happened was back in Patalor when the younger man had insisted on healing the injury he sustained from his fight with the Mafia.
When Kurapika looked up at him, no longer were his scarlet, but their usual pretty blue. Chrollo carded his fingers through his lover's golden locks as he brushed a few strands from Kurapika's face.
"What happened?" He whispered, and his hand sought out Chrollo's as the older man reached for it.
At the same moment, his friends came astride them, Gon coming down on his knees. "Kurapika." The amber-eyed boy said with concern. Killua and Leorio were standing over his shoulder. "Are you alright?"
Chrollo glanced at them briefly before cradling Kurapika closer to his body. He understood his lover's friends were concerned, though he hoped Kurapika would be okay. Something about the younger man's condition worried him, and Chrollo couldn't help but think it had to do with Kurapika's abilities. The idea bothered him.
"He just collapsed after fighting off the beasts," Chrollo said, and his grip on Kurapika's hand tightened. Then he looked into his lover's eyes again. "How do you feel, babe?"
Enervation had set in, and Kurapika found it hard to move. He was silently grateful for Chrollo coming to his side - it felt quite nice to be in his lover's arms. Kurapika's fingers instinctively curled around Chrollo's when they tightened against his. He couldn't help the faint smile to cross his lips, especially when his friends also came to his side.
He breathed in deeply and leaned into Chrollo's gentle touches. "Just a little tired." He uttered and closed his eyes. "I'll be fine."
For some reason, Chrollo had a difficult time believing that Kurapika was alright as he claimed. Something about it didn't sit quite right with him, and it was the same way Kurapika acted back in Patalor when questioned about his condition. Again, the older man felt that nagging sensation once more. "Are you sure?"
Kurapika nodded but attempted to smile again. He really didn't like the aspect of making his lover worry. Same with his friends. "Yes, there is no need to worry. Trust me." He lifted his free hand up and cupped Chrollo's cheek. "When this is all over, I just need to rest."
Reluctantly, he tried to rise up from Chrollo's lap and grunted when his body refused to cooperate. Kurapika fell back against the older man's leg and clicked his tongue in annoyance.
Chrollo laid a hand on his chest, preventing him from moving. "You've done enough." He commented sternly and leaned in close, their noses barely touching. "We can handle it from here." Chrollo then dipped forward to capture Kurapika's lips in a tender, loving kiss.
He could hear gagging sounds coming from Nobunaga and Phinks as Chrollo suspected would be their reaction, but the more amusing aspect was the gasping sounds Kurapika's friends made. If only he could see their faces, especially Leorio's.
But then Chrollo ignored them when he felt Kurapika meld into the kiss, those soft lips working against his own. For a moment, nothing existed. No people, no massive beasts, or even the crazed magician that was certain to be entertained by the display. All that mattered was the beautiful man who laid in his arms. Of course, Chrollo was still perturbed by what happened to Kurapika after his clash with the beasts, but considering his lover's current state, he decided to refrain from questioning it. For now.
Instead, he pulled away from Kurapika, severing their kiss then looked towards the Kurta's friends. "Take him somewhere safe. He is in no condition to continue fighting." The expression on Kurapika's face spoke of him preparing to retort, and Chrollo stopped the younger man before he could. "And it's not up for debate."
Grudgingly, Kurapika gave a curt nod and lifted away from Chrollo's arms, his expression disapproving. He understood his lover's reasoning and that he really was exhausted from his rather intensive assault, but Kurapika also knew that it was Chrollo's wish to protect him. The very notion made him smile to himself, and in truth, like his friends, it was comforting to know how much his lover actually cared.
It made him love Chrollo all the more.
Kurapika went to stand beside his friends, and he could see the rather modest grin on Gon's bright face. The boy scratched the back of his head. "I'm just glad you're alright." He stated and turned to look at Killua who gave a simple thumbs up.
"You really had us worried," Leorio chimed in, a look of annoyance on his features. He shoved his hands into his pockets roughly but said nothing in response to the earlier exhibit of affection. "But at least you're okay."
Their reactions incited Kurapika to smile again, but this time, physically. He really was grateful for their compassion as they were truly great friends.
A rise in snarling from the remaining beasts drew them from their temporary rejoice, and all four of them cast a glance towards the ebony bodies still situated amongst the trees. Gon's grin faded into a frown. "We should probably get going." The young boy intoned, and without another word, he, Killua, Leorio, and Kurapika disappeared from the battlefield.
Once their forms completely faded from view, Chrollo breathed a sigh of relief.
"Well, well, that was certainly a very entertaining display." Hisoka interrupted as he came to stand astride Chrollo, a smug look accenting his demeanor. "Seems it's true about you and Kurapika."
The magician's jibing didn't alter Chrollo's focus as he kept staring at where Kurapika vanished for quite some time, yet, it didn't wholly impede the annoyance he felt. Chrollo turned his head just slightly, and his eyes bored coldly into Hisoka's. "I think you should be focusing on the enemy before you. The battle isn't quite over."
Such a chilling tone added to Hisoka's amusement as it was practically the reaction he expected from the Genei Ryodan's leader. So it was legitimate what he was told about Chrollo and Kurapika. It was interesting, indeed.
"Oh, I think there is more than one adversary here, but you are right, Danchou." He spoke mockingly, a sly, toothy grin over his lips. "There is a much more immediate threat present." The magician paused and turned to look at the offending beasts. "However appealing it is."
Chrollo recognized the attempt Hisoka made to intimidate him but kept his gaze stony and unwavering. He watched Hisoka with utter indifference; the man was a constant thorn in his side.
"You looking for a fight, damn one-handed freak?!" Phinks shouted, ignoring the creatures who watched him fixedly. "Because if that is what you want, I'll be sure to kill you in the process."
The sudden outburst from his former comrade only instigated his gratification. Hisoka's grin turned more malicious. "You're more than welcome to try." He jeered, aurulent eyes growing wide with insanity. "Those creatures tried and failed."
Both Phinks and Feitan narrowed their eyes and looked prepared to rush the man, but Chrollo closed his eyes and hindered them from proceeding. "Now is not the time." He proclaimed quietly, and their eyes landed on him. "Diverting from the real enemy here will only serve to place us in a position with negative consequences. These creatures have no real intention of letting us go."
Silence ensued as everyone around him looked contemplative. Even Hisoka appeared thoughtful. Finally, there was a collective profession of averment among them, and Chrollo resumed assessing their opponent. The beasts had regrouped and were prepared to counterattack, their spirits resuscitated.
He knew they were all in for a fight they would never forget, yet Chrollo was confident they had the upper hand. Victory would be theirs despite the odds.
Opening Skill Hunter once more, he flipped to the page containing one of his newest skills and blue flames sprang to life around the area. Chrollo's determination grew. "It ends here." He decreed and collectively, they charged forward, ready to send the creatures into the afterlife.
The morning sun rose over the horizon as the rays bathed the area in its morning glow. Colors of bright yellow and vibrant red painted the powder blue sky, creating a grand sight that was like a wondrous painting.
However, such an extraordinary view was offset by the gruesome scene that stretched around the forest surrounding the decimated city of Mirie. A myriad of large, black bodies lay strewn upon a blood-soaked ground, their eyes long since glassed over by death. Silence had descended, an eeriness that was only accompanied by the echoes of a long, drawn-out war.
Standing amid the corpses were several people, weariness on their faces while crimson had stained their clothes. As the sun rose higher in the near-perfect sky, it was clear that something horrific had transpired.
Drawing a sharp breath into his tired, agonizing lungs, Chrollo surveyed the area before him, his expression haggard from the ordeal he and his companions had endured.
Glancing around, Chrollo could tell that his Spiders were just as exhausted. He had seen them put forth every effort possible towards defeating their enemy, their own strength and vitality sapped away by such a taxing event. But it was over. Finally. Each and every one of the beasts had been slain and were now littered about their feet. It made Chrollo feel at ease. Their battle had been long and arduous.
Skill Hunter vanished from his hand after he closed it and Chrollo turned his attention towards those around him. Even Hisoka looked worse for wear.
"The battle is won." He announced, the sun's warm rays washing over his face and Chrollo briefly closed his eyes. "We have defeated the beasts and stopped their incursion." There was a pause, and then his gaze landed on his comrades once more. "Our job here is done, and all of you can rest easy now."
At Chrollo's words, the Spiders, Hisoka, and even the Zodiacs all moved to face him, each and every one of them acknowledging the success of their battle and the victory they claimed.
"I am just glad it's finally over," Nobunaga carped and bent down to wipe the blood from his blade on the pelt of one of the dead beasts. "Almost thought the bastards were never going to stop coming." He added then rose again.
The comment incited a collective look of thoughtfulness in several others. Even Phinks appeared as if he also had his fill. There was a solemn expression on his face. He was almost nearly covered from head to toe in dark crimson.
"Well, I for one just want to get the hell out of here. This place has been giving me the creeps since we arrived." Phinks murmured.
Feitan turned to look at his comrade, the look in his eyes spoke of amusement. "Are you afraid of a measly forest?" He poked, voice low.
Shock crossed Phinks's visage, and the man rounded on his short companion. "What makes you think I'm afraid?" The eyebrowless man snapped his shock melding into annoyance.
"Oh, I don't know. Maybe it was your reaction?" Feitan responded and crossed his arms as his eyes locked with Phinks's.
Embarrassment washed over him, and it took everything he had not to return with a sarcastic response of his own. Phinks merely glared at the other man but said nothing more.
"You two really need to stop." Machi chided hands on her hips. "The both of you sound like kids squabbling over a loaf of bread."
Getting berated in such a way left both men ashamed, and they turned away from each other sullenly.
There was a momentary silence as they all looked solemn despite their triumph and a large man with a heavy stride slipped forward. All eyes then turned into his direction. "Machi's right." Franklin addressed them. "It's no way for us to behave. We should be celebrating as opposed to fighting."
Listening to Franklin's speech brought a smile across Chrollo's lips. While it was true that most of his spiders were ill-tempered, there were still a few who exhibited level-headedness. Chrollo was grateful for those times.
"While I understand we have all suffered some sort of after-effect from the battle waged, this is the time we should be indulging in our current success. In-fighting would only be counterproductive to that very notion." Straightening his back, Chrollo placed his hands into the pockets of his coat, and a faint smile crossed his lips. "We may not be physically walking away with anything other than our lives, yet, we stopped a powerful opponent while preventing their incursion from spreading. Meteor City is also safe from ever experiencing their taint."
Chrollo stepped back and let the magnitude of what he said sink in. He didn't expect everyone to see eye-to-eye - especially Hisoka knowing the crazed magician - but they had concomitantly defeated a mutual threat and that warranted solidarity as opposed to disjunction.
The silence was transient, and without further dissuasion, the entirety of the Genei Ryodan nodded in approval. Finally, they all agreed on something. Chrollo was relieved.
"Honestly, I would love to stick around and join in whatever festivities you may have planned, but I think I'll pass for now." Hisoka purred and quietly disappeared into the surrounding forest.
"Tch. Good riddance I say," Phinks grumbled and flexed his arm.
Once Hisoka was entirely out of sight, Chrollo turned his attention towards the Zodiacs. Their appearances spoke of how much they endured from their fight with the creatures. However, both of them looked composed despite what occurred. The last order of business had mainly to do with them.
He would worry about Hisoka later if it came to it. Something told him the magician would be preoccupied for quite some time.
"What will you do now?" He asked. Chrollo was still curious if they were prepared to uphold the deal made between them.
Both Cheadle and Miziastom looked contemplative, but the dog Zodiac simply pushed the glasses she wore up along her nose. "Mizaistom and I will be reporting back to the Hunter's Association with the outcome of what happened here. There are still a lot of unanswered questions regarding those creatures. Like their origins, for instance." Her attention then landed fully on Chrollo, though a frown was still on her lips. "With that said, we are both eternally grateful for your assistance and for being accommodating in allowing us to join you." Gracefully, she turned and prepared to exit the clearing they were in, Mizaistom mirroring her movements. "Also, do not worry; both of us plan to uphold our agreement. We will not pursue you from here."
After that, the two Zodiacs walked back into the forest and eventually, from view.
It was a considerable amount of time before anyone spoke, and the silence was almost deafening. Chrollo hummed, and a barely visible smile accented his features. Something told him they were walking away with more than just luck and that it wouldn't be the last time he saw the Zodiacs.
"So, what do we do now, Danchou?" Franklin questioned as the man came up beside him. Chrollo continued to stare forward.
"There isn't anything left for us to do here." He said calmly, hand still in the pockets of his trench. "We can leave the rest to the hunters."
Getting one last look at the aftermath of what ultimately befell Mirie, Chrollo practically followed both Hisoka's and the Zodiac's examples and walked towards the edge of the forest, his eyes carefully watching his comrade's reactions. The raven-head knew that regardless of his decision, they would follow, even if some of them disagreed with it. At least they had won the battle and had managed to prove to themselves just how powerful they truly were.
It was also the prime chance for their newest member to prove just how valuable and worthy he was. Now, all he had to do was find Kurapika and his friends. Chrollo missed his lover already.
"What about the Chain User?" Franklin inquired nervously.
Chrollo raised an eyebrow. "You mean Kurapika?" He supplied. "We need to pick him up along the way. Don't forget he is a part of us now." For a moment, Chrollo looked thoughtful, and he glanced at the large man before continuing. "His friends will also be accompanying us back to Yorknew and are to be treated respectfully."
Franklin bowed then straightened. "Understood." He confirmed before going to stand with the others.
Taking one last look at the beauty of the sun over an unfortunate city, Chrollo said a few silent words for those who were lost at the fangs of the beasts then resumed heading into the forest. "Let's move out." He commanded and quietly slipped between the trees.
Without saying a word, the Spiders followed him one by one into the shadows of the forest, leaving the tragic scene of Mirie behind.
After Thoughts: First off, I am sure some people were shocked by and did not expect a specific part that occurred in this chapter, and are probably wondering how or why it even happened. Before anything, I have to say sorry, not sorry and I honestly have /no/ regrets for it LOL. Mr. OP needed it done, and the outcome was settled on the main reason that Hisoka gets away with so much without really any repercussions. This was just my way of handling that aspect. Initially, I thought of his hand only getting severed, but then we have seen this happen before and I figured he would have just bugged Machi to reattach it. So yeah, he needed something worse to happen to him. It was about time Hisoka got his ass handed to him truthfully.
And yes, I am sure some of you may be asking what Kurapika did - if it wasn't painfully obvious - but he did use Emperor Time to enhance his physical strength to dispose of the beasts since those particular kinds of attacks were the only ones effective against them. (Which is another aspect that will also become evident later on). Unfortunately, it was a decision blondie had to make. But I will say this. I have major plans for ET, so the circumstances behind why Kurapika used it here although he has no further need to continue his suicidal tendencies will be made clear later on.
Also, we will see more of the creatures down the line. Who they are and where they came from will also be released in later chapters. ;)
There will be more exciting things to come.