I don't own anything. All characters and all rights belong to Ichiei Ishibumi*
M for mature topics. No children allowed. *
The Broken Boosted Gear
By Try Another Time
The worst kind of toxic and corruptive clouds of gasses surrounded the group. Their visibility had decreased to minimal levels, and each was forced to wear special suits except for one team member. Their whole group contains only five members. One of each was drastically affected by such gasses as not even her wings were viable in such an environment.
"It's dark. Way too dark." One team member said as he analyzed the area around them. The black sun on top of them was barely visible.
"It was to be expected; after all, this is the death realm of the vampires." Another team member said as he approached the remains of an old building. Its walls had fallen victim to the passage of time and the lack of reinforcement.
The team member carefully made his way inside.
The items that remained inside its walls were barely distinguishable from each other. Be it books, clothes, or even personal items; all seemed to barely remain whole, as even one wrong movement could lead to each one turning to ashes.
The suited agent continued to look around while scanning the area, making sure not to touch anything.
Outside that building, a particular red armored agent followed another team member as she scanned the area for some sign of life. Her terminal continued to give her negative results with each scan.
"Nothing. Even the smallest living beings cannot survive in such an environment." A pained voice said.
"Don't let it affect you, Elmenhilde. Our goal lies inside that tree." Her ally said as he pointed at the tall death tree in the distance.
"I know, but just look at all of this. There was a time in which life flourished within this realm, Ddraig. It is painful to look at it and think about what it used to be." Elmenhilde said as she looked all around her.
"From the ashes, life can be reborn once more, Lady Elmenhilde. Even if this doesn't seem like a realm with any salvation, one shouldn't lose hope until one tries every possible action. You have our support, so let's see what we can find." Another team member said as he got closer to them.
"Thanks, Sir Raphael," Elmenhilde said before her attention was drawn to her terminal. "Danger: Incoming air currents can increase toxic gasses within the immediate area."
"Let's move," Ddraig says.
"Wait for us. Azazel, let's go." The remaining team member said as he waited for the fallen angel.
"Sorry, I'm coming," Azazel replied as he exited the building.
The group gathered and began to make their way to the tree. Several small flying robotic units followed them as they flew close to the ground, providing visual aid for the group.
"Not being able to fly is painful, but it is best not to endanger ourselves by flying into the unknown. How's your armor holding up, Ddraig?" Azazel asked.
"I'm okay. My skin feels irritated, but I'm not being affected. I recommend that you keep those masks at all times. The air is worse than many places I have visited before. Humans would die if they even came into contact with this thing, and your respiratory systems are bound to be affected by inhaling it." Ddraig said as he tried to limit how much air he inhaled. He was fine, but his body told him that too much would be dangerous.
Although none of those present were affected by the lack of oxygen, everyone made a safe choice not to endanger themselves like Ddraig by inhaling the toxic air.
"We have at least 12 hours to collect samples and investigate the area. Let's make the best of it and see what we can find. Ddraig, if you get to a point where you need a mask, let me know, and I'll provide one." Raphael said as he checked his storage. He had come prepared with an array of items that could be necessary for the mission.
"Save it for now," Ddraig replied.
Thus the group continues to advance through these dangerous lands. The crimson rivers that once flew all around the realm had gone dry, and the group witnessed the little remains of the aquatic life that once used to thrive within the crimson "waters."
"These must have been Spyads and Rivenids, two of the seven aquatic species my people saw as exquisite food choices based on my records," Elmenhilde said as she tried to recover the remains.
"Let me help," Ddraig said as he helped her descend the dry river with his tail.
"So besides the fruits of the tree and the crimson "waters," vampires did eat other things," Ajuka said as he made a new entry into his report.
"They were alternatives, but my people didn't seem to eat these aquatic life forms regularly. If I had to find an explanation, it had to be due to seasonal changes. Certain species seemed to be only viable during certain times of our calendar. Maybe it was due to their reproductive season, like humans tend to hunt certain species when they are in the breeding season." The researcher quickly collected the remains of the specimens in glass containers. "I'm done; help me up, Ddriag," Elmenhilde said.
Ddraig used his tail to bring her back to the previous area.
"Thanks. I'll see what we can do with these remains. Let's continue." Elmenlhilde said before the group continued forward.
Their path continues to offer them ruins of the lost society of the vampires. Broken murals, pieces of statues that pay tribute to their creators, and what seemed to be the remains of a forgotten temple; the group continued to find the remnants of a society that came to a sudden end as its last surviving members were forced to run away from their homes as the realm became a deadly trap.
The team stopped at several points along the path as the need to analyze such remnants became a vital side objective.
"You don't need to do all of this," Elmenhilde said as she held an old piece of cloth. The patterns that her scanner detected made her remember some of the old attires that the royal family kept as relics of their home.
"Although your people remain, the chance that many things have been lost due to the exodus is high. The answers to our questions might be in one of these old murals or the old temple we left behind. Recording everything we can is also a way to show the Carmilla faction that we care. I expect that few vampires ever had the chance to come here to recover some of their lost heritage. Since we have the chance, we can try to help with such efforts." Raphael said as he finished scanning several items.
"Thanks." Elmenhilde appreciated the care her new allies were showing. She didn't know what to expect when she left her home, but until now, the alliance had been supportive and amicable with her.
"We're close to the tree. Let's hope to find promising samples inside." Azazel said as he checked the map their support units had created.
The group continues. As they approached the tree remnants, the group became more aware of its massive size. Like ants next to a full-grown human, the death tree overshadowed the team.
"Holy Lilith, can we call this one of the tallest trees in all of the realms?" Ajuka asked as they got closer to the base of the tree.
"Likely in the top 5. Ddraig, can we leave cleaning any possible obstruction to you? I fear we might not have clear access to the tree's heart." Azazel said.
"Leave it to me. I'll limit the use of my fire attacks to be on the safe side." Ddraig said before he summoned Ascalon.
The teeth of the sword began to rotate as Ddraig prepared himself for the task at hand.
As soon as they reached the base of the tree, their fears became all too real as no visible entrance was found. Considerable remains of the tree blocked their path into the inside.
"Time to make an entrance for ourselves." The Welsh Dragon lifted his blade and began to carefully make a path for the team to move deeper into the tree while being mindful not to compromise the already weakened state of the death tree.
The other members of the team kept a moderate distance from Ddraig. They scanned and collected samples of the tree for further investigation.
"The bark is rough and sort of fleshy. Just what sort of method did the primordial vampyrs use to create this kind of tree." Ajuka asked as he investigated some of the smaller bark pieces.
"The inner layers seemed much soft yet retained the fleshy texture of the bark. If we use the anatomy of a Jubokko tree as a reference, we might gain further understanding of this tree." Raphael suggested as he caressed one of the inner walls.
"But those are mostly found in the 4th layer of the Underworld. Wouldn't it be hard to transport one to the first layer?" Elmenhilde asked.
"Don't worry. It is not the first time agents of Grigori have gone to that layer. We just need to figure out how to keep it alive and healthy. They are known for sucking the blood of any corpses that come within its territory." Azazel said as he sent a message with his terminal
"A small sapling would be best for our purposes. An adult Jubokko will require large amounts of blood to sustain. Make sure they gather an adequate amount of soil from the same layer. The sapling's health will likely be affected by different soil. We should also gather samples of the soil around here." Raphael suggested to the group.
The progress of the exploration advanced with no problems until the group reached a somewhat unexpected development. As they reached the tree's core, the group found a giant chasm that seemed to extend for miles to no end. It seemed as if the ground had given up and taken anything that once was found inside the tree alongside it.
"What should we do? Do you want to go down there and see what we can find?" Ddraig asked the group.
"Give us a moment to check with the support units." Ajuka operated his terminal, and several flying units began to descend into the chasm. Several minutes went by until the units returned with their report. "No visible signs of danger, but the toxic gasses seemed far more concentrated down there. Ddraig, get a mask before we descend."
"Here you go." Raphael pulled out an extra mask and gave it to his ally.
"Thanks," Ddraig said as he placed the mask over his mouth and nose. His lungs seemed to thank him as his breathing turned softer.
"We'll let's go." Azazel jumped first.
"I'll see you in the depths." Ajuka went next.
"Be careful on the descent." Raphael followed the others.
"Hop on." Ddraig kneels before Elmenhilde.
"Thanks." Elmenhilde climbed on his back. "I'm ready." The vampire said with a slight blush on her face.
"Here we go." Ddraig took a step forward and fell into the darkness of the chasm. His body continued falling for several minutes until his eyes detected the small light Raphael's halo produced. The dragon spread his wings to decrease his descent.
His allies seemed to have done the same. Each had spread their wings to control their descent. As they continued to descend, the darkness became much denser.
No light beside the one provided by Raphael's halo seemed to pierce it.
But then, something triggered everyone's instincts. Something was watching them from within the darkness.
"Ddraig, be ready for a possible fight," Azazel said as he summoned one of his inventions. It was a short golden spearhead that seemed too short to be a viable weapon.
The others did the same with their own weapons.
"There shouldn't be anything alive in the realm. The conditions prevent the survival of any species." Elmenhilde said.
"Never be too sure about anything, Elmenhilde," Ddraig said as he continued to descend.
The group waited for some kind of enemy attack, but they ended up receiving none. Yet they remained alert until they finally reached the bottom of the chasm, and their eyes were shocked due to what they found.
A pale fleshy mass the size of a horse was found at the bottom of the chasm. Its red eyes turned to them.
"What is this thing?" Ddraig asked as he waited to see what the mysterious fleshy mass would do.
"I have no idea. Elmenhilde, any idea?" Azazel asked.
"I… not sure. I have no records of such a thing, but it might be important." Elmenhilde climbed down from Ddraig's back and approached the pale mass.
"Stop. We don't know what it might be." Ajuka said as he grabbed her hand.
"Trust me. I know the risks, but I need to see if it might hold the answers to fixing the realm." Elmenhilde said as she turned to him.
"You must be more careful with your choices; you're not working alone. Ajuka, let's approach the thing with her. If it turns out to be a weapon of some kind, we'll eliminate it." The Welsh Dragon said as he approached Elmenhilde.
Ajuka takes a moment to choose before he releases Elmenhilde. "I take the left; you take the right, Ddraig. Raphael and Azazel offer long-range support if necessary."
Both males nod as they keep their distance.
The trio advances closer to their target. The fleshy mass keeps its eyes focused on them, especially on Elmenhilde.
Once she gets close enough, a small tentacle grows from the mass and stretches toward Elmenhilde. The vampire extends her hand to the tentacle. The fleshy appendage touches her, and a small voice invades Elmenhilde's mind.
"I waited for the vampyr kin to reach this place. It has been so long. I can't do anything else besides this. I entrust you with the seed. May your efforts bring this realm back to its glory."
The fleshy mass begins to pulsate as a small object emerges from within.
"Take it."
The tentacle starts to dissolve after this as the eyes of the fleshy mass begin to close down.
Elmenhilde reaches out and grabs the object. It was a small red oval object that pulsated as if alive.
"Why did the scanners not detect this thing?" Raphael asked Azazel.
"It likely possesses a hiding mechanism to protect itself. The question we should be asking ourselves is, what is the identity of this mass of flesh? I infer that it might be related to the core of the tree. Maybe it is the core itself, but its appearance says that it is no longer capable of taking care of its task." Azazel said.
"You think so, brother?" The seraph continues.
"Is a possibility." The fallen angel said.
While the siblings continue discussing their theories, Elmenhilde holds the mysterious oval with care. As her eyes met the remaining open eyes of the fleshy mass, she could tell it was close to the end of its life.
How many centuries had it waited for someone to reach it?
Did her queen know about its existence? Likely the answer was a no, as her family held all information regarding the tree.
Maybe no vampire knew about it. Their creators likely kept it a secret to prevent anyone from being foolish enough to interfere with such a crucial thing, but now its life was ending.
Elmenhilde touched the fleshy mass. "Thank you for enduring for so long in this place. I promise I'll figure out how to bring this realm back to its glory."
After hearing such words, the fleshy mass finally closed its remaining eyes. It had endured a long fight to hold the last hope for the vampire race, and now it was allowed to rest.
The fleshy mass began to dissolve until barely anything remained.
Ajuka moved to collect some of its remains for further analysis. "... Let's return to the alliance and discuss our findings. We might need to come at another date for further exploration, but this is enough for now."
Elmenhilde nods as she stands up and walks to Ddraig.
The dragon kneels and allows her to climb on his back. With Elmenhilde tightly secured, Ddraig took off to escape the chasm alongside the others.
"Ddraig."
"Yes?"
"Thank you for helping me. I have found something precious today. Something that can save my people."
"... I'll continue to support you until you achieve your goal. Leave the heavy lifting to me and focus on your task. Your goal is an amazing and selfless one."
"... Thank you." The vampire closes her eyes with a smile on her face.
Several hours later, Grigori. Research lab #7.
"This is all that we found on our trip. There are no signs of life within the realm. Be it plants or animals; all have died due to harsh conditions of the realm." Azazel began with the report.
"We found no sources of "water," and the realm's infrastructure is non-existent. For further exploration, I propose the creation of several small outposts which will allow us to explore the realm and actively work on its restoration." Raphael said as a map was shown to everyone present.
"Teams involved in this project should be on a rotation of 2 weeks, and each one shall be composed of at least five members. Two teams shall enter the realm every two weeks to replace the existing teams. All members should wear special suits and masks to counter the harsh conditions of the realm. Teams will focus on various tasks, which will be decided before each incursion. Ms. Karnstein will lead this operation, and all developments shall be informed to her and us. No objects besides samples shall be taken out of the realm to respect the heritage of the vampires." Ajuka informed the teams.
"All information shall be kept confidential, and if the teams are seen by outside forces while traveling into the realm, they should abandon the mission. Return home and avoid fighting. We want to avoid anyone learning about our efforts, especially members of the Tepes faction. I hope to show results to the queen of the Carmilla faction, and hopefully, this will lead her faction to accept joining the alliance. I thank all of you for accepting such a task and hope that our collaboration is a lasting one." Elmenhilde said before she bowed her head to the teams.
"The pleasure is ours." The teams bow their heads to her as a sign of companionship. Restoring a realm was a massive mission, and each one of those present felt excited about the opportunity to participate in this.
Some were humans, some were angels, and even a few Youkai were present, but none cared about such things as they were united under one mission.
Elmenhilde couldn't thank them enough for their collaboration.
After the reunion. Elmenhilde's room.
Elmenhilde finished eating before she laid back on Ddraig's chest. Ddraig took a small tissue and cleaned the blood around her mouth. He had grown accustomed to the eating habits of Elmenhilde, although he preferred a better sitting arrangement because of the proximity of their bodies.
The young-looking researcher felt happy with the current developments. She had been able to travel to the home of her people, and although she had been horrified by the destruction that she had found, she had also found hope.
The "seed" was now resting within a safe container inside her room alongside many of the samples they had collected.
"I feel at ease," Elmenhilde said.
"I can tell. You're one step closer to your goal." Ddraig said as he relaxed in the chair. "You know, after eating, you can sit down in a different chair."
Elmenhilde shook her head. "I like this seat. It is warm and comfy and listens to me while offering advice." The girl smiles from ear to ear as she enjoys his heat.
"You're a vampire. Shouldn't you be afraid of the sun and fire?"
"I'm not turning to ash right now. I also doubt you'll ever hurt me."
"You should be more careful, Elmenhilde. Not everyone will approach you with the best of intentions."
"Are you one of those with devious intentions?"
"No, but not everyone is like me."
"Maybe I should keep you around to protect me from those with evil intentions."
"Sorry, I don't want to be a bodyguard." Ddraig jokes.
"Who said that I was trying to make you my bodyguard?" Elmenhilde laughs once she sees the confused expression of the dragon.
"Foolish girl." Ddraig pats her head. "Do you miss your family? I hope they can appreciate everything you're doing."
"... I do, but I'm doing what's necessary for their sake. My siblings and father will understand my actions once they see the result. Queen Carmilla will also see the results of my efforts. We'll restore the realm back to its glory. You'll be with me, right?"
"I'll continue to support you. Once you achieve your goal, you'll be free to return to your family. I promise I'll visit." Ddraig said.
Elmenhilde said nothing and just buried her head in his chest.
"Tire?"
"..." She didn't want to reply, so she slowed down her breathing and heartbeat.
"I'll take that as a yes. Sweet dreams, Elmenhilde." Ddraig continued to caress her head for a while until he fell asleep. These days, he felt the need to sleep more and more.
He never noticed how Elmenhilde was still awake. "Dummy…. What if I don't want to return?" Elmenhilde took Ddraig's arm and placed it around herself before falling asleep.
Slowly but surely, he was becoming someone significant to her.
*Eve- Raison D'etre*
Next Chapter: Drinks amongst friends- Healing hearts.