Disclaimer: Part IV is here and prepare yourselves because I am really turning up the action. Our heroes are not holding back any longer. Everything is on the line as the war against Klaus reaches critical levels.
The Hundred Killer has entered the battle. Fully transformed, and no longer restrained, Sion engages Klaus in vicious and fearsome combat. Klaus, witnessing the Anima's destruction, no longer holds back and unleashes the deadliest of his abilities. Will Sion emerge victorious?
The Mannequin Army is nearly decimated thanks to Anderson and the Nail of Helena. But Theokoles is just as crafty as Klaus. He has a few surprises in store, forcing the wolf pack to move with their plot.
As the fighting wages on, a mysterious package arrives onto the battlefield, one belonging to a certain vampire count, allowing Alucard to help turn the tide against their enemies.
Thank you for the continued praise and support but for everything good and holy, cool it with the story predictions!
Chapter Fifty-Two- Final Judgment Part IV
Klaus and Sion clashed in a duel of titanic proportions. They flew at breakneck speeds from one point of battlefield to the next. Their impacts sent colossal shockwaves reverberating both in the air and to the ground below. Sion shouted and then cackled wildly, he spread out both arms as red crimson energy pulsated and crackled around him, reaching to the sky. Sion roared with maddening fury, then maliciously grinned and pointed to Klaus.
"It seems your plans have failed, Klaus. What will you do now? Your forces crumbling, your plans crushed, and your pathetic crusade against God foiled. HAHAHA!" Sion mocked cruelly. He then mockingly bowed his head, his pulsating energy still vibrant.
"Hail his Majesty" he sarcastically said.
Klaus, furious, clenched his fists so tightly they bled. "It would be most unwise for you to mock me now, Hundred Killer. Perhaps I just end all these fools here and now" he threatened.
Bad move.
Sion responded with another demonic roar of rage and fury before beelining straight for Klaus as an explosion rocked the air around.
Sion bashed and pummeled Klaus repeatedly. Klaus summoned every magical ability at his disposal. Klaus pointed his finger as scores of crimson arrows rained down on Sion. Piercing the demon's hard muscled body, Klaus watched with growing horror and frustration as Sion smirked and merely flexed, the arrows shattering. Klaus raised his hands overhead, summoning down lightning bolts which also proved pointless. Sion raised his own right hand, summoning forth powerful gail-like winds which diffused and insulated the bolts.
Sion, cackled and then opened his mouth as a beam of concentrated energy sped forth, Klaus barely managing to shield himself. Klaus lowered both hands, forming two massive broad swords out of magical energies. The swords resembled Dao blades.
"Heh heh, still got some fight left, scumbag? Fine..."
Sion waved his hand once, his trusted big blade Oblivion phasing to his side as he and Klaus clashed sending more shockwaves across the battle grounds.
On the ground below, Anderson continued tearing through the Mannequin Army. The demonic foot soldiers of the former Dark Emperor Mundus burned to char and cinder in the overwhelming holy presence of the Nail of Helena. The once 500,000 strong legions of the damned now dwindled down to roughly 200,000. And that number kept going down. From one end of the field to the next, holy fires erupted, burning untold legions away.
Anderson slashed twice with his bayonets, more vines and thorns erupting forth. Some of the vines cracked through the ground, burrowing beneath the floor and traveling farther from one end to the other.
Seras, surrounded by Mannequins watched as they were ensnared in a massive coil of thorns, before their bodies were sliced apart and besieged in holy flames. The vampire progeny looked to see Anderson approach. His face twisted in madness, sneering like a vicious clown. He slowly walked past her, making eye contact with her the entire time. Anderson then turned his attention to the demonic horde as he continued slicing and tearing through.
Across the battle ground, Theokoles watched with growing interest, still resting atop his massive steed. Arms folded, the Shadow of Hell narrowed his eyes and scoffed.
"The holy and purifying fires of God. Burning away any demon they come in contact with. This is most curious; how then shall we handle this priest?" he said before something caught his eye. Dante, finally emerging from the mountainside, and back to his normal state raced to the floor, joining the fight against the strange new creatures belched from the steed's mouth. He was quickly joined by Nero, the Black Hand, and several of the Soldiers of the White Lotus. Theokoles cast his gaze back to the sky; Sion and Klaus were intensifying their duel. Theokoles then grinned a wicked grin; it wouldn't be long now. His time to strike would soon come.
Cracking his neck several times, Dante watched as he, Nero, the Black Hand and others of the allied forces were surrounded by the very grotesque and strange creatures which spewed forth from the black substance oozed out by the Steed of Theokoles. The gauntly, wicked looking creatures snapped and snarled, hissing and waving their jagged scythes around.
"Any clue what the hell these things are?" Nero asked, cautiously reaching for Blue Rose, spinning his revolver around.
"Ravagers"
Nero and Dante both glanced at Roman as the leader of the Black Hand sucked his teeth. "When Theokoles fought against Sparda, he used his steed then too. The steed is able to bring forth ghastly creatures called Ravagers. They are a high class of demon more traditionally seen in the deeper depths of the Demon World. For Theokoles to be able to conjure them, through his steed, on the mortal plane, is troubling. The boundaries between human and demon are slowly starting to break apart." Roman explained, glancing over at the Shadow of Hell who flashed a sadistic grin.
Dante recalled what Seth shared regarding Theokoles. The Shadow of Hell will undo the boundary and veil between God and Devil, man and demon, the Human World and the Demon World. With a heavy sigh, Dante then said, "Well, before we let that asshole wreck everything, who's up for a fun fight?"
Dante smirked and wasted no time, pulling out Ebony and Ivory and opening fire, blasting several of the Ravagers away as black ooze spurted from their bodies. Nero opened fire with Blue Rose, blasting apart several of their heads. Roman used his trademark sword, Nemesis and cut through large sections of them. His compatriots, Xerxes, Pluto and Quint likewise cutting through them. The Ravagers were ferocious and adept fighters. Despite their gaunt and gangly appearance, they were fast, strong, skillful and seemed to work in tandem.
Dante tucked his pistols away and pulled out Rebellion, clashing with three Ravagers at once as the fiends hissed and snapped their jaws. Dante ducked under one swing, kicking aside another before jumping and flipping over the third. He slashed twice with his sword, twisted then cut off the head of one Ravager, turning and slicing the second in half. He watched as the third approached only to be snatched by Nero's Devil Bringer hand. The young knight shouted and proceeded to crush the fiend into bloody bits as they dripped to the ground. Dante's brow widened, but then quickly smirked and pursed his lips curiously.
Meanwhile, the wolf pack were busy preparing their own counter strike.
"Everyone ready?"
"Yes"
"As always"
"On your go, Mike"
"You're the Boss Mike, like always"
"On your permission, Boss"
The pack stood in a large circle, Michael in the center, everyone holding hands. Michael held his sword in one hand, his other clenched tightly in a fist. Looking at the moonlit sky, he breathed in deeply and then slowly turned to his pack. Everyone confidently smiled and/or nodded. Even Kathy, who at first voiced her opposition to this. Michael glanced at Lucian; the eldest Salvatore smirked. His brothers likewise eager. Jacob, though still boisterous, was much calmer.
Michael slowly removed Fenrir from its scabbard, tossing it aside. He held the blade, slowly examining it. "Old friend, lend me your strength."
The pack began howling, a long harmonious and melodic sound. The howls reverberating and echoing from one end of the battlefield to the next. Their bodies began glowing in golden light, pulsing several times as the ground rumbled beneath them. This increased in frequency and intensity. Michael's eyes flashed vividly, his amber eyes now changing to a charging crimson red. With a massive howl, followed by an ear-splitting roar, Michael then plunged Fenrir deep into his heart. Roaring from both the pain and the immense power suddenly erupting within his body, Michael reared back, howling with even deeper ferocity. His black hair changing shape, lengthening to the small of his back, spiky locks forming in the front. His claws lengthened, his fangs sharper. Blood poured from the wound. Michael staggered forward, grit his teeth, braced and then shouted as he pulled Fenrir from his body, and he was engulfed in a massive vortex of energy which soon swallowed the pack as well.
"Whoa! What the hell was that? Felt like a damn bomb went off!" Dexter shouted, glancing over to the pack's location, the Mannequin's momentarily halted, enthralled by the dazzling golden amber vortex.
"This light..." one said clutching its weapon tightly.
"Yes, this light...we've never seen this light before" another said.
Vladimir stood silently, holding his ancestral sword before him, hands resting on the end of the guard. His eyes were closed, body tensed. Slowly, they opened, and he said, "Power of the Bloodline: Dreadnaught"
Sparks of electrical discharge gathered in the vortex. The golden light intensified before forming into the shape of a massive wolf which soon howled. The wind picked up as the vortex settled and the pack came into clear view.
Only, they were not alone.
Forming row upon row were over 2000 Werewolves, each baring vicious fangs and claws. Michael stood at the front; Fenrir clutched tightly in his hand; his amber eyes replaced by piercing red irises. His pack stood to his right. To his left, Lucian and the Salvatores. Michael waved Fenrir once, growling as steam escaped from his mouth and his fangs increased in size.
"Hehe. Man oh man, if only our parents could be here to see this" Jason cracked, bobbing his head towards the scores of Werewolves patiently waiting at their side. The wolves, although taking physical form, were the spirits of great elders and leaders since ancient times. Their fur-colored dark gray, their eyes a piercing reddish golden color, their fangs the size of large daggers.
"Boss, you did it." Raul said, cautiously glancing at Michael. Michael turned, nodded, and then warmly smiled to his pack mate.
"We did it" he said as Raul smiled. Raul then glanced at the full moon. "She's so big, so fat and full. I feel her warmth. I don't know about you guys, but I feel like howling my ass off. I say we take up a notch!" he said excitedly, his voice booming. The pack shared his sentiment, knowing full well that the moon would grant them a tremendous strength advantage. Lucian chuckled and grinned, "It's been ages since I have turned on a full moon. I've almost forgotten what it feels like."
Ramone smirked, turning to Jason and Jacob who nodded their approval. Jacob said, "Let's do it then. For all our forebears. Let's put an end to Klaus, Theokoles, the Mannequins, everything this war has thrown at us. It's time we make that bastard really pay."
Sergei glanced at his brother, who shrugged.
Fuck it. Like always.
Sergei then said to Jacob, "You're alright Salvatore, you're alright. We'd be honored to transform along with you."
Jacob then sadistically grinned as he and Sergei fist bumped.
Michael watched as the pack slowly removed their weaponry, tossing their various firearms to the floor. They were going all out in pure raw physical combat. Michael then pointed to Theokoles.
"Together, we fight. Each wolf will strengthen the next. We'll take the fight directly to Theokoles. Do not stop until the devil's head rests at our master's feet. Now, GO!"
Immediately, Michael's pack, along with the Salvatore Brothers transformed into their full wolf states, joining their ancestral forebears as they roared with tremendous fury. The wolves burst forward, cracking the earth in their stead and beginning a massive assault towards Theokoles. The Mannequin army intervened, many of the demonic soldiers clashing with the various wolves summoned forth by Michael's ritual. One wolf was slashed in half, its body instantly regenerating and reformed. With a vicious snarl, it slashed the Mannequin into bloody ribbons. Satisfied, it let out a howl and sprinted through the battlegrounds, joined by its bretrhen.
The Werewolves launched a much-needed counter. They were swiftly joined by the Ninth Crusaders as the white hooded and robed Catholic soldiers fought alongside, using their anti-vampire weaponry. Many of the soldiers momentarily questioned fighting with such vicious beasts. However, compared to the horrors of the Mannequin's, they figured such an aid was a much better alternative.
Vladimir could watch as wolf after wolf tore through the enemy, slashing, biting, hacking and tearing. Integra and Rosette stared, both horrified, and intrigued. Integra glanced at Vladimir, who was calm and serene. He was heir proper to the Sokolov line alright, not in the least bit apprehensive while surrounded by monsters.
A wolf crashed near the trio, fur bristling, fangs bared. The wolf snarled, glanced at Vladimir, and then instantly softened its fearsome visage. The wolf gave a low bow. Vladimir returned the bow of his own, before smirking.
"Go forth, my wolves. Go forth in the Sokolov name and destroy him."
The wolf howled and dashed off, cracking the ground in its wake. Vladimir couldn't help but chuckle as Integra turned to him. "You think a vampire army is frightening? There are few things in this world more terrible than a Werewolf on a full moon. One wolf can destroy an entire platoon. A large pack? An entire city. An army? God help our enemies" Vladimir said confidently. Integra couldn't help but chuckle. "You seem to enjoy this, Vladimir"
He glanced at her. "My father told me stories of how the true strength of the Werewolf isn't in their physical capabilities. It's their spirit, their valor, their resolve. It's what the wolf symbolizes. Unending courage, grit, resolve and fierce loyalty. It's why we Sokolov's chose them, above all monsters, to serve at our stead in the fight against dark forces. I think I get why my ancestor Vitali did not kill Michael when he easily could have. He saw something, perhaps he had foresight that one day, humanity would need that tremendous strength."
News carried of the Werewolve's counter measure; the fighting intensified as the pressure mounted back on to Theokoles as the Shadow of Hell laughed, summoning his big blade, as if welcoming the challenge.
Wolves descended on him, he spun his massive blade as he slashed and tore through them. The ancestral spirits reformed and countered by beginning to attack and claw at Theokoles.
Dante and Nero, still tangling with the Ravagers watched as they were aided by the spirits of the wolf elders, the Ravagers being ripped and torn to shreds.
"Damn, kinda reminds me of National Geographic" Dante quipped, spinning his blade and planting it into the ground.
"What the hell are you talking about?" Nero asked, firing off rounds from Blue Rose.
"You don't watch too many nature documentaries do ya kid? Ever seen wolves hunt for deer in Yellowstone?" Dante said, watching Nero's exasperated look. Dante and Nero were about to be attacked by more Ravagers when Trish and Lucia intervened, slicing them to shreds before landing gracefully.
"Oh yeah, Lucia, meet Nero. Nero, Lucia, she's an old devil slaying partner of mine" Dante gestured with his hand, casually introducing the two. Lucia frowned at Dante, who chuckled and held up his hands innocently. She then stared at Nero, curiosity turning to concern. She glanced at Dante, speaking in that velvety accent of hers.
"Now what's the plan?" she asked, spinning her blades around. Trish walked beside her and said, "Dante, the veils are breaking down. We don't have much time. If Theokoles and his steed aren't destroyed, we may not ever be able to separate the worlds again. The Human and Demon Worlds are not meant to be merged and blended together as one. It disrupts the spiritual balance of existence itself. The consequences will be ghastly." Trish said holding Sparda across her shoulder and glancing at their enemy. Theokoles was still battling the Werewolf ancestors, laughing and cackling the entire time.
Dante shook his head, glancing at his sword and then towards Theokoles. With a shout he transformed back into his Devil trigger state, energy pulsing and crackling around him.
"Nero, take charge of the fight here. I'll take it to Theokoles." Dante said, his voice echoing. Nero halted his approach, glaring harshly. Nero then transformed into his own Devil Trigger state, causing both Lucia and Trish to look on intensely.
"Damn it Dante! You're not hogging all the glory! I'm in this fight too!" Nero shouted, pointing at Dante. The Devil Bringer form folded its spectral arms, eyes flashing menacingly.
Despite that, Dante merely chuckled and shook his head. Surprisingly, he didn't take a harsh or even wise ass tone, like normally. Instead, he tenderly patted Nero's shoulder and looked right into his eyes.
"Look, Nero, this isn't because I don't think you can help. Hell, in about 10 or 15 years you'll probably be able to kick my ass from here back to Fortuna. But no, this isn't about which one of us is stronger or who can fight. It's about the future. Now, much as I hate to admit it, never had much luck with the ladies. Guess I didn't get that from my old man." Dante said shaking his head. Trish stiffened, glancing at Lucia, who didn't meet her gaze and then back to Dante.
Dante then said, "But you, Nero, have a future. There's a certain songstress waiting for you. So, make sure you go home alive to her. Leave this kind of thing for those of us without a legacy."
Nero couldn't bring himself to reply, he exited his transformed state and stood there, clenching his fist. Dante bumped his shoulder with his fist, smirked and walked by. He nodded to Trish and to Lucia, then looked at the fight ahead. His Devil Trigger state still pouring out massive amounts of his demon energy.
"Bad luck with the ladies. Yeah, I definitely did not get the swag from my father." He slowly glanced at Nero over his shoulder, and then said, "But I think my brother got it."
Nero's jaw dropped, he watched as Dante took flight and again joined the fight against Theokoles.
Trish' eyes widened, she turned to Lucia who still did not answer. "Does he...does he mean that Nero is-"
"Yes" Lucia answered without breaking a beat. She glanced at the young knight with the Order of the Sword. Nero's emotions flooded him, gritting his teeth, he stifled back several tears and cursed under his breath. Trish walked over, soothingly clutching his shoulder. He couldn't meet her gaze. Trish gently lifted his chin with her finger, she then smiled and said, "Nero, Dante believes in you. He trusts you. Why do you think he wants you to carry on the fight here? It's not because you're weak, or he thinks you can't handle it. It's because he knows you're better than him."
Trish smirked, playfully tapping his chin with her fist and then turned back to the battle. The Black Hand were gaining ground against the Ravagers but were still woefully outnumbered.
The Werewolves continued tearing through the Mannequin Horde. Some of Michael's pack now engaged in combat with Theokoles, colliding with the Shadow of Hell in vicious fighting. Theokoles found it growing harder and harder to repel the advance of the Werewolves. Every time he would cut one down, three more were there to take the fight to him. He clashed with the chocolate brown furred wolf that was Karl, dodging the vicious claw swipes. Theokoles raised his sword, only to have his entire arm sliced off by another wolf, Raul. Baring his fangs and snarling, Raul then bit and tore into Theokoles' flank. Theokoles howled in pain and frustration. Karl was joined by Sergei and Alex who tore off Theokoles legs. The twin wolves howled. The rest of the pack moving in for the kill.
"Everyone, together, advance!"
"Rip him to shreds!"
The wolves howled, advancing en masse as they swarmed Theokoles, intending to rip and shred him until there was nothing remaining. News of their assault reached across the battlefield.
"The wolves are pressing the advantage! They have Theokoles on the ropes! They're doing it!" was the message relayed to every soldier on the field.
Vladimir tensed, gripping his sword tightly. Integra nodded her approval, chuckling as Rosette remained silent.
Across the field, Seth, joined by Seras as they continued fighting the Mannequins paused. His ears rustled, his fur bristling as he opened and closed his mighty jaws.
"Can they...can they, do it? The legend goes he cannot be killed by any man or woman. But...did it mean human? Can he only be killed by another monster?"
Above the battlefield, Klaus continued clashing with Sion, reaching the peak of their combat. Sion roared with demonic fury and wrath, summoning more power as he fired massive blasts of energy towards Klaus. Klaus summoned a magical energy shield, absorbing the energy and returning to Sion who blasted them away with his sword. Cackling, Sion sped forward, clashing blades against Klaus who struggled against his obscene might. Sion sneered, opening his mouth, and releasing a powerful blast of red and black energy which collided with Klaus and sent him crashing back to the ground, directly in the path Anderson's rampage.
Anderson sneered, wasting no time. His vines and thorns spread forth, towards Klaus who struggled to his feet. Klaus shouted, evading some of the thorns but made contact with the rest. Holy fires erupted, burning a good portion of his body as Klaus howled with pain.
Sion, still hovering above calmly raised one palm, raining down an immense volley of ogre shaped blasts of energy, which impacted and exploded.
The blast rocked the battlefield, the ground shaking and trembling sending everyone to the floor.
Sion tossed his head back, laughing wildly, with increasing ferocity as he gently floated down to the ground. He tossed a curious glance at Anderson. The divinely endowed priest still did not utter words. Anderson removed two bayonets, holding them in a cross pattern. Sion frowned, turning his attention to the flaming crater where Klaus landed. Suddenly, a pillar of red energy erupted from the hole, reaching to the sky. Klaus' roars of fury could be heard as he slowly emerged, staggering forward. Much of his clothes burned, his body badly singed and charred, his left eye shut tightly.
"I will not end here. I am his Greatness, his Majesty, my will is enduring, my crusade unending. I will build my new world!"
Klaus reared back, initiating a massive buildup of power before shouting and transforming into a vortex of crackling energy. Once everything settled, Sion took note of Klaus' new appearance. The Hundred Killer smirked, raising up one of his vicious talons.
"Oh?"
Klaus' new appearance was a drastic change compared to his normal form. His eyes shone a vivid and unholy golden orange color with black pupils. His skin was now covered in Germanic tribal tattoos, no doubt a throwback to his origins. He had sweeping goat-like horns on top of his head, claws, and talons in place of finger and toenails. Most vividly, he sprouted a pair of black angelic-like wings. Klaus glared angrily as Sion laughed.
"Come on! You and I cannot be stopped! We'll keep fighting until nothing is left! All of creation will be a ruined thing in our wake! Come on, this is where you die!" Sion shouted spreading his arms, inviting Klaus to duel again.
Anderson meanwhile took this time to march and advance toward Theokoles. He cut a path of divine retribution through the Mannequins as the demonic soldiers continued burning and perishing in his wake. Anderson was cheered on by several of the remaining Paladins as well as the Ninth Crusaders. Anderson heard the howls of the wolves as they continued tearing into Theokoles. Anderson leaped high into the air, aiming both bayonets for the Shadow of Hell.
Michael, sensing the approaching danger howled. His pack instantly responded by avoiding their attention from Theokoles, who was now reduced to only his torso. The Shadow of Hell howling in pain and fury, watching as the wolves sprinted away, leaving him in a pool of his own blood.
"I'll fucking kill every one of you! I swear I will! I'll eat all your fucking insides! You cunts! You think this is enough to kill me?!" He roared, using profane and obscene language. Theokoles instead watched as Anderson rained down a massive volley of blessed bayonets. They repeatedly stabbed and impaled Theokoles who howled with pain and anger. Landing, Anderson then removed yet another bayonet, impaling Theokoles through the chest. Anderson gleefully drove the blade deeper and deeper into his body, sneering as Theokoles roared with awful pain. Leaning back, Anderson raised one last bayonet overhead, intending to cut off Theokoles' head. He was cheered on by the surrounding wolves as well as some of the allied soldiers.
"Do it Father!
"Kill him!"
"Finish this, Anderson!"
The blade, however, shattered before the blow could be delivered. Theokoles' having finally regenerated his arm, tore off Anderson's hands. The rest of his body regenerated, despite the advanced holy weaponry. Eyes bloodshot, fangs bare, Theokoles roared with a gut-wrenching burst of demonic fury as he proceeded to slice Anderson in two. He took his hand, dove it into Anderson's chest and pulled out his heart, the Nail of Helena still embedded.
With a triumphant grin, Theokoles licked his lips and bit and tore into Anderson's heart. However, this proved to be unwise. The vines and thorns tore through Theokoles' entire body, shredding him back into bits. Only his head remained intact, eyes wide with both pain and shock. Instantly, he was ignited, the holy vines erupting in a massive and great immolation that scorched and burned into the earth, Theokoles becoming a veritable cauldron as he roared and cried in agony.
Anderson gasped, blood erupting in his mouth, his bifurcated body crashing to the floor. Every onlooker watched in horror. Some of the wolves stepped forward but a savage and mournful bark and howl by Michael and Lucian halted any further interventions.
"Stand down, now"
"Boss, we have to help!"
"Michael is right. Any of us get closer and we'll all join in with Theokoles"
"This isn't right! WE were supposed to end this!"
"Brother...is this...is there nothing we can do?"
Michael reared back and howled, the rest of the wolves joining in as it carried across the battlegrounds.
Seth's ears again perked, then, his fearsome visage twisted to sadness. Seras noted, then watched with surprise as he shifted back to his human form. His amber eyes returning to those gorgeous forest green eyes.
"What is it?" she asked him. Seth met her gaze.
"It's Anderson" he replied as her eyes widened.
News quickly began spreading; Anderson defeated Theokoles but at a terrible price. One by one, available soldiers marched towards his location, the burning furnace that was Theokoles' body a dead giveaway.
"He's...dying?" Integra asked, stubbing out her cigar and staring off. Rosette covered her mouth, turning to Vladimir whose head was bowed lowly. He gripped his sword, then picked it up and said, "Let's go"
Across the battlefield, the Steed of Theokoles suddenly began convulsing, expanding and shaking. A portion of the Ninth Crusaders kept firing, despite their ammunition and rounds being depleted, leaving them the bare minimum.
"What the hell is going on now?!" Dexter shouted, re-loading his rifle. Dutch then said, "they're saying Anderson took down Theokoles. Maybe this is a result of that. Maybe these two have some kind of link or connection. If one dies, so does the other"
Dexter shook his head, "But Seth says Theokoles cannot be killed by any man or woman. How could Anderson do it? Even with that special holy nail."
"No offense to Seth, maybe the legend was wrong" Dutch said glancing at the steed. Both men gasped as its body began crumbling and breaking apart like dry clay. Piece by piece, the grotesque and repulsive beast slowly withered and decomposed to the ground in a massive heap, the awful wail it gave still filling the air. Its many eyes likewise crumbling and breaking apart.
The Ravagers summoned by the steed likewise began fading away. In their case, melting back into the black oozing liquid they emerged from. Roman and the Black Hand glanced around. He glanced over at Nero, Trish and Lucia who had ceased fighting as a result. Nero revved the Red Queen before holding his trusty blade across his shoulder.
"Is it over?" Nero asked.
Theokoles on the other hand, continued howling as his body was immolated by the divine flames from Helena's Nail. His eyes completely bloodshot as he cast a scathing glance at those around him.
"This can't be how it ends! I am the God of Demons! The Devourer! Teeth in the Darkness! I can't be undone by some puny nail!"
Theokoles glanced to his right, seeing Dante slowly approaching. He was back to his normal state as the demon slayer smirked and bobbed his head. Theokoles then saw Dante's appearance change. He resembled Sparda, his father, and his most hated enemy.
"No...NO! Fuck you Sparda! Fuck you Dante! Fuck your entire bloodline! If I ever escape from Hell I won't stop until I've had vengeance! You think Mundus was bad?! He was NOTHING compared to what I'll do if I ever manage to return!"
Theokoles vulgar and profane laced rants soon cut off as he was entirely engulfed in the holy flames, which burned him to a crisp. The flames burned for several moments before finally dissipating. Across the battlefield, the flames which had been raging and burning for some time dissipated, sending great plumes of char, and ash and cinder rising to the moonlit sky.
Anderson coughed, then smiled. He was instantly surrounded by several Paladins and Crusaders, all whom begged him to reform and continue the fight. Anderson, however, shook his head, acknowledging his fate.
He would die here.
Vladimir, Integra and Rosette approached. Dexter and Dutch did as well, Rosette holding close to her fiancé. Seras zipped through the sky before crashing to the ground, taking point by Integra who nodded, warmly smiling at her beloved servant before turning her attention to Anderson's ruined and pitiful remains.
"Damn, he managed to subdue Theokoles. But at a terrible price I can see" Vladimir said gazing at the smoldering remains that were Theokoles. He glanced to the adjacent side, the wolf pack was slowly approaching, still joined by the released ancestral spirits, some of whom began howling.
"Father, please stand!" one Paladin cried. Anderson shook his head. "No tears for me lads. Where I'm going there will be no weeping or crying, for I go to the presence of the Lord. He will wipe every tear."
"But...but..."
Anderson watched as Seras slowly approached. She peered down with those crimson eyes. The war had taken its toll. She looked utterly fearsome. Yet, she still managed to show compassion, perhaps even love, in her gaze.
"You're dying, Father" Seras said. Anderson chuckled. "Yes. I am. I don't suppose you'll turn me into a vampire now, will you?"
Seras' eyes widened, as did Integra's. Anderson, however, managed a light chuckle.
"Just a joke. No, I've lived long enough. I accomplished my life's mission. Serving the Lord by fighting and destroying all heathens and abominations in his name. Although..."
Anderson's expression softened even further as he then said, "I do wish I could have returned to my children from the orphanage. I wanted to see them all become adopted. For them to find good loving homes."
Anderson then noticed Seras' expression. She was crying. Anderson, although moved by her compassion nonetheless laughed.
"Demons don't cry. Seras Victoria. You became a demon, a vampire to escape death. So frightened you were at the prospect of dying you abandoned God, and your soul, forever bound to the one who turned you." Anderson said, watching as the progeny of the famed vampire Alucard, cried genuine tears of sorrow at the pending death of her nemesis.
Dante folded his arms. Hearing Anderson reminded of what he said to Trish after defeating Mundus.
Tears are gifts only humans are meant to have
Anderson drifted his gaze towards the sky. "Farewell, heathens and heretics. My Paladins. My Crusade, thank you. Go forth in our Lord's name until every demon on this earth is vanquished."
Father Anderson then breathed his last breath. His body crumbled away and turned to dust.
No one spoke for several moments, watching with sadness as Anderson's remains drifted in the calm wind. The wolves began howling, their melodic cries echoing across the Arctic valley.
Integra sighed, bowing her head low. Vladimir said, "Alert our scattered units. Theokoles has been defeated. We still don't know how many of the Mannequins remain. Be prepared for them to counter."
Seth stared at the remains of Anderson, then turned to where Theokoles burned away. His fists clenched as he said, "It's not over."
He turned to face the group. "It's not over. Theokoles isn't dead, not yet at least. Remember, no living man or woman can kill him."
"Ah shit come on Seth. Look, no offense, maybe that was one thing the legend got wrong." Dexter said. Seth's serious gaze halted him in his steps. This wasn't like him. "Don't you remember? His heart is his only weakness. It was removed from his body centuries ago. We have to find his heart and destroy it. We'll never be able to rest until he does."
Vladimir then said, "Even if he's not dead, we've halted a major power player for the enemy. For the time being at least."
Suddenly, there was a massive explosion which rocked the earth. Overhead the group, Klaus and Sion crashed to the ground in a titanic tremor which sent forth large chunks of debris flying and scattering.
Emerging from the rubble, Klaus and Sion stared one another down. Sion gave another tremendous roar of rage and held out his right palm. He collected a massive amount of energy, aiming straight for Klaus. Klaus likewise gathered concentrated energy, aiming at Sion. This was it. The final attack for both men. Only one would emerge alive. Sion began wildly laughing, tossing his head back as his energy grew larger, wider.
"This is it, Klaus! It's been fun but I think I'll kill you now. Any last words before you die?" he sneered.
Klaus didn't answer. He then sneered ever so lightly. Klaus held out his left palm, summoning an object to him. Sion scowled, then his eyes widened.
Helena's Nail.
"Klaus! Don't, you bastard!" Sion said releasing a massive volley of demonic energy waves.
"DON'T LET KLAUS GET THE NAIL!"
Klaus ignored the oncoming rush against him as the wolves, Nero, Seras, Dante and other allied forces sprinted forward to attack, just as Sion's energy attack collided. To their dismay, they could hear Klaus laughing.
Klaus emerged from the dust and rubble unscathed, the Nail now rammed into his own heart as he howled and cackled with ferocious insanity.
"If I can't create my new world! Then this one will purge in the flames of Hell!" Klaus shouted. The thorns and vines sprouted from every reach of his body. Klaus shouted, his feathery wings flapping as sparks of energy crackled between his horns. Klaus spread both his arms out, shouted at the top of his voice and unleashed an onslaught of divine thorns and vines, sending forth wave after wave towards his enemies.
"Oh shit!" Nero shouted, attempting his best to dodge the melee. He felt searing and blinding pain in his right shoulder and in his chest. Thorns jettisoning out as his body lit in flames.
"Nero!" Seras shouted, trying to intervene only to find herself burning from the divine thorns.
The Paladins and the Ninth Crusaders rushed towards Klaus, firing from the anti-vampire weaponry but it too was null and void. Klaus merely swiped with one hand, sending dozens of thorns and vines, gruesomely impaling his opponents. He continued laughing and cackling with maddening fury, watching as the allied forces scattered about, trying to avoid the lethal holy vines he unleashed.
"This is absurd. Klaus, look what you've become! So twisted in your hate against God, yet you would try to steal God's power to crush your enemies!" Vladimir shouted, raising the Sokolov blade and slicing through the vines and thorns.
"He's become something worse than what happened to Anderson. He is neither a man, a monster, a devil, nor anything we recognize. Divine yet damned. Unholy, and yet, not unholy. Klaus, what a miserable beast you've become" Integra spat.
Klaus' body, now fused with Helena's Nail unleashed a mighty and ungodly devastation to the already battle-weary allied forces. If left unchecked, every soldier, from Iscariot down to the human men would fall victim to the all-consuming fires of the divine weapon.
Klaus turned, eyes fuming with wrath. He pointed and said, "I'll send each and every one of you with me into oblivion!" Klaus then moved to speed towards several of the group when he was halted by Sion. Without hesitating, Sion took his hand and drove it through Klaus's chest, clutching his heart and sending them both crashing to the ground. Roaring from the pain of being immolated by the thorns, Sion then gripped Klaus tightly, holding him in a half nelson, clutching his still beating heart as the thorns continued sprouting, now burning both men. The pain of having his heart removed forced a momentary grip of sanity on Klaus, who looked on in great fear.
"Sion! What are you doing? You'll destroy us both!" Klaus shouted over the roar of the flames. The thorns and vines sprouted from every portion of Sion and Klaus. The Hundred Killer, despite the growing fatal wounds he was suffering, cackled, and then said, "I told you; this is where you die! You might be going straight to Hell, but I'll keep you company on the way down! HAHAHA!"
The Nail of Helena, perhaps in response to Sion's massive demonic power seemed to kick into overdrive as it ensnared the two in a massive vice grip, thorns and vines beginning to shred Sion and Klaus while continuing to burn them as they howled in rage and agony. Despite that, Sion called out to his beloved friends.
"Dexter...Seth...Rosette...this is going to be goodbye, my friends. I told you before I would never forgive Klaus for putting you all in harm. Especially you, Rosette. This is my penance, for the millions of lives I've taken" Sion said solemnly.
"Sion! NO!" Rosette shouted only to be restrained by Integra. Dexter likewise was held by Vladimir and Seth, shouting the entire time.
"Sion! We can save you! Let us, please!" Dexter shouted, stifling back the tears. Seth too, turned his head, knowing if he let his friend go, he would be swept away in the vine's wrath.
"Dante!" Sion called to the devil hunter. Dante needed no further explanation. He knew the task was required. He grabbed one of his pistols, charging a massive amount of his demonic power into one charge shot. Enough to take them both out. Dante aimed, cocked his pistol, sighed heavily and then gave Sion an impassioned look. The Hundred Killer had steady tears down his face.
"DO IT!"
"I'm sorry, Sion"
Dante fired, a massive and wide beam which twisted around a second fired beam pierced Klaus' heart, and straight through Sion's heart, ending their rampage as the gunshot echoed across the battlefield.
Blown back by the impact, Klaus and Sion collapsed to the floor in a bloody and burned heap. Klaus gagged a great mouthful of blood, as did Sion. Everyone looked in absolute horror, even Dante sadly held his head low, smoke hissing from his pistol as he lowered his gun and swore under his breath.
"Oh my God...SION!" Rosette shouted, sprinting to him, as did Dexter and Seth. The flames instantly dissipated. Klaus' ruined heart beating for several moments before stopping. His heart burned a charred color before cracking as steam hissed. Helena's Nail falling to the ground. Now lying a few feet away, Klaus' transformation ended, reverting to his human form. He breathed heavily, gasping for steady air, arms spread, and legs sprawled as his body was covered in awful burns.
"Sion! Sion! Hey, you'll be alright! You'll be alright!" Rosette said, tenderly clutching his head. Still transformed into his full powered state, Sion weakly grinned and flashed a weak thumb's up. But it was all an act. The massive hole where Dante fired was not closing, nor were his other wounds healing. Sion, was in fact, dying.
"Man down! Man down! Get us a medical evac, quick!" Dexter shouted into his radio. Seth clutched his shoulder, then squeezed tightly. Just enough to force Dexter to have the awful realization that their friend was not going to make it. "He'll be ok. He'll be ok. He ruled the freaking Demon World after all. What's a gunshot to the chest, right?" Dexter said, glancing over at Dante. The devil hunter said nothing, merely folded his arms and closed his eyes. Trish walked over, joined by Lucia. Trish tenderly patted Dante's arm.
Around them, no one uttered a word. Vladimir, now surrounded by his wolf pack, all of whom had returned to human form, simply looked on. Nero too, silent, twirling the Blue Rose before tucking it away. Seras took a cautious step forward. Integra halted her vampire servant with a stern, albeit mournful and compassionate stare.
"I'm sorry guys. I'm sorry...that I put you all through this."
"Shut up! Don't talk crazy like that!" Rosette said, fists balled, mad that he still blamed himself. Dexter finally walked over, dropping to his knees, beside Rosette. "Sion..."
Sion grimaced from his wounds, gritting his teeth as his massive musculature swelled. Steam hissed from his body as he reverted to his normal state, no longer the fearsome Hundred Killer.
"Listen...I don't have...long. Dex...I'm sorry. I'm...sorry I kept my feelings for Rosette...from you. You were...one of my best friends. I betrayed you...in secret...this whole time. I... I didn't deserve your friendship."
"What the hell do you mean? I know you loved her. Why do you think we trusted you all these years to be her protector? Sion, you earned our trust! There's no one else I would have wanted to watch my back this whole time. You, me, Seth, ride or die, like always, right Seth?" Dexter said, half grinning as he glanced at Seth. Seth couldn't meet his gaze, even as Seras walked over, tenderly holding his hand.
Sion chuckled, his eyes drifted to Rosette, who had tears flowing freely. "Don't cry, Rosette. Humans shouldn't shed tears over demons, like me"
"You idiot! I thought I told you before. You might be a demon, but you're no monster. You're our friend, we love you Sion!"
"Love...I never knew that word...before coming to this world"
Sion again chuckled. With one hand, he reached up, gently brushing away her tears.
"Thank you, my friends, my family. For all your faith, and love, and trust. You've shown me the best sides of humanity. Rosette, you especially. Even in all the times past, when you'd get a glimpse of my power or temper, you never had a disparaging word. Even when others cowered at my presence, you told them I could be trusted, that I'd always do the right things. I... spent my whole life being hated and feared. In the Demon World, I was king, ruler and master. I could command a legion in but an instant. And yet, I never knew things like love, kindness, joy, happiness, mercy. Until I met you, in a strange way, I've never felt more human."
Sion' breathing turned heavy. He clutched Rosette's hand in his, gazing from her, to Dexter, to Seth, and to everyone surrounding.
"Seth...one last favor. Make sure they make it to the altar. Make sure they grow old and frail, together. That's all I ask; I've made peace with how things turned out in the end."
Seth trembled, fresh tears pouring down his face.
Sion then said, "Goodbye, my friends, my family. I love you all."
The Hundred Killer then faded away, his grip in Rosette's hand going limp as his hand dropped.
"Sion...no..."
Rosette wept over Sion's body, Dexter clutched her shoulders, he too crying as he punched the ground with his bare fist, causing it to bleed.
"Damn it!"
The wolves began howling, another melancholic song of mourning and sorrow. Vladimir gently bowed his head in respect, shutting his eyes tightly and biting his lip.
"Lord, perhaps, perhaps you could grant this soldier everlasting peace"
Integra was silent, calmly adjusting her glasses. She lit another cigar, puffing the fumes. "Humans, mourning a devil. This world is full of wonders. I wonder...what will be his fate?" she quietly uttered to herself.
Slowly approaching, the Black Hand stopped inches from Sion's body. Seeing Rosette and Dexter, weeping and mourning the fallen fighter seemed to stir something in them. Each member removed their famed sword, planting them in the ground out of respect.
"Farewell, Sion, former Ruler of the Demon World."
Unfortunately, the passing of Sion was interrupted by a sudden cry of pain and frustration. Klaus gasped, struggling to his feet before collapsing on his back. Rosette looked up, eyes wide with uncontrolled fury as she sprinted over, planted her boot to his throat and began shouting and yelling.
"You bastard! It's because of you our friend is dead! Your ridiculous crusade and obsession against God! It's taken the lives of far too many innocents. How many people have died because of your selfishness! Answer me you miserable fuck!"
Dexter and Seth both flinched. Rosette never lost her cool like this.
Despite his pain, Klaus glared at her. "Me? Selfish? SELFISH?! I was going to build a new world! You mourn your friend. You mourn the countless lives I've killed. SO WHAT?! I could have brought them all back! And so much more!"
Rosette stomped down hard on his throat, swearing in unbridled rage causing Dexter to pull her back.
"Fuck you! Fuck you!"
"Rosette! Everyone! Stop!"
Nero approached. His passion and authority shocked Rosette out of her anger. Even Dante seemed impressed, pursing his lips curiously while Trish just stared. Nero glared down at Klaus, spat, and then said, "I've dealt with holier-than-thou types my whole life. They do exactly what you've done. Justify their selfishness with the greater good. That jackass Sanctus was exactly like you. Yet, you both missed the bigger picture."
Nero pulled out Blue Rose, spinning it before cocking the hammer. Everyone watched curiously, Klaus even flinched from fear before starting another coughing fit.
"You're going to die Klaus, here, now, today. I'll put an end to all your bullshit. But not before I drop a dime of wisdom." Nero sighed, shook his head, and then said,
"Why did God give us free will?"
Klaus' eyes widened, and he shook with rage, stifling cries of fury as his body, despite the injuries, shook. Nero actually smirked and asked again, only to be met with more wrathful outbursts.
"Your whole plot was because you called free will an illusion, a lie perpetrated on all of man. You would free us from that lie, so we could achieve greatness. But how do you achieve greatness without choice? Strife, conflict, loss even"
Nero swore under his breath. He gazed to Sion's lifeless body, Rosette, to Dexter, and back to Klaus.
"You would have failed Klaus. Your world would have been but another cog in the machine. Without choice, you'd just create more instruments of your own frailty and weakness. You gained power by selling your soul to the Devil, you took from others for 2000 years, you raised countless undead soldiers, demons that even Mundus couldn't control, and then you took one of God's holy items and made yourself a ruin. And the best part? You still lost!" Nero said with a sarcastic scoff.
Nero's mockery caused Klaus to flinch. Klaus' gaze turned upward to the still moonlit sky. The wolves continued howling.
"I wanted...a perfect world...free from malice and strife...and death"
Nero shook his head and said, "Oh you would have gotten that world. But it wouldn't have been perfect. You force people to become caricatures of your own ego, selfishness, and cowardice. That's way worse than any devil."
"Nero...you don't understand. I had to. I had to...betray my humanity..."
Nero aimed Blue Rose at Klaus' face, and said, "You didn't betray humanity. You betrayed yourself"
"Nero! NO!"
Nero fired until every round was spent. With a satisfied sigh, he spun and tucked Blue Rose away. He gazed at the solemn expressions around him. No one was joyous, given the death of Sion. But it seemed the war finally ended. Klaus was dead.
"I'm sorry" Nero said not meeting Rosette's gaze. She tucked her hair, looking at Sion and then to Nero.
"No, don't apologize. Thank you, Nero." In response, Nero managed a weak, but warm smile.
Their solemn moment was interrupted when a massive explosion rocked the field, and a bright pillar of light a few yards away erupted into the sky. The wind picked up, sending dust and debris scattering. The pillar of light then morphed into a sphere of condensed energy which began taking shape and form, growing, and stretching in mass.
"What the hell is that?!" Vladimir shouted.
"Jesus can't this end..." Integra shook her head. Seth took a cautious step back, eyes wide, absolutely horrified.
"It's him"
The entire group watched as the sphere of energy gave shape and form to a man. A tall well-built man with slick backed blonde hair, piercing hateful red eyes and a malicious grin.
Theokoles
The Shadow of Hell, fully re-formed, teleported to the ground and proceeded to blow back the group with a roar of demonic energy, sending them sprawling on the floor. He gazed down with contempt and pity at Sion but turned his attention to Klaus' dead form. He grinned viciously, exposing wild fangs as he cackled and shouted at the top of his lungs.
"I told you when you fucked up, you're mine! Now, feed me BITCH!"
Theokoles reared back and bit into Klaus' body as the group looked on in horror, his shadows spreading forth, devouring, and consuming the former Master of Death in grisly fashion. Blood splattered, skin ripped, bones snapped and popped as Theokoles engorged every last bite.
"HAHAHA! You tasted like utter shit, but it'll have to do before the main course!" Theokoles said through blood-stained lips.
"No...no, how is he still alive?!"
"All available units, engage the enemy! I repeat, Theokoles is still alive! Get those goddamn crusaders over here and take this bastard out!" Dexter shouted to his radio, reaching for his rifle and opening fire. Immediately, everyone tried their luck fighting against the God of Demons. But he was much too strong. Bullets had no effect, he shrugged them off like they were insect bites.
The wolf pack howled and engaged but were batted and swatted away like nothing. Michael and Lucian roared and charged; Lucian was slashed multiple times by Theokoles' shadows, nearly losing his head in the process. Michael fared no better, being ruthlessly impaled through his chest, and then tossed aside.
Dante shouted, slamming Rebellion down only to be nearly vivisected as Theokoles sneered and roared. Collapsing to his knees, Dante was nearly beheaded until Nero intervened with Yamato. Theokoles looked curiously, then took the next horrifying step. After deflecting several wild sword strikes, he evaded the final one. Taking his hand, he grew multiple shadows from his palm which formed a gruesome looking scythe. Theokoles waved once, then slashed off Nero's Devil Bringer arm, as he cried in agony and was then impaled through the stomach. Theokoles smirked and said, "I told you before, boy. That little blade won't help you. Only Sparda could best me and he's long gone. Sucks for you bastards!"
Theokoles kicked Nero aside who crashed into the ground, blood pooling from his severed arm.
"NERO!" Seras shouted and rushed over to him, joined by a few others. Theokoles cackled with insanity as he spread his arms.
"Now the fun is really going to start. I've got quite the treat for y'all"
He snapped his fingers as a massive tremor struck the ground, knocking everyone off their feet. It reached from one end of the battlegrounds to the other. Soldier after solder trying to steady themselves all while preparing for the worst.
"You demon! What are you planning now?!" Integra shouted, shielded by Seras' shadow. Theokoles glanced at her.
"I told Klaus that the moment he fucked up, his ass was mine. He was too arrogant. Too self-assured. But I waited, plotted, planned to take his ass out just when I knew the time was right. I knew he would be pushed to the brink here. I knew Sion would more than likely be the one to kill him. And a good thing too, one less player in the game for me to waste time on. But Klaus did leave me with a special little trinket."
Theokoles took the next horrifying step and plunged his hand deep into his chest, baring his wicked fangs the whole time. He opened his chest cavity, exposing his now beating heart.
Integra's eyes widened. His fabled heart, his one weakness, the one alleged way to truly kill him.
"Don't worry I'll explain. While I can't be truly killed so long as my heart is intact, it does limit my power, somewhat. At least, on this plane. My body can be destroyed but I will simply reconstitute it later. But to really achieve my full power I will indeed need this little bad boy. Hell of a tradeoff huh? True immortality, albeit with restrained power. Now that I have my heart, I can access my full power. And another special little secret. This is something even Klaus didn't know"
A few yards away, near the crumbled ruins of his precious steed, a massive skyscraper sized construction jettisoned from the dust and debris of the earth, towering over the battlefield. It resembled an old obsidian colored slab of concrete, with indiscernible runic inscriptions upon it and spherical center.
"What...what in God's name?" Vladimir asked, horrified. Integra's eyes widened; Rosette collapsed to her knees. Dante, Trish, and Lucia recognized this construct. Despite his wounds, Dante then said, "A Hell Gate. Your steed isn't just a being you control. It actually serves as a true Hell Gate. A portal to the Demon World. You bastard" he muttered as Theokoles cackled.
"You should see all your faces! Fuck what I wouldn't give for a camcorder now! And that brings me to my final point!"
Theokoles despite his madness, put on a serious, albeit demonic expression of calamity and malice.
"I've said before that I have no real purpose. Mine is strength, and hunger, and lust, and power. I kill and feed where I want, and from whom I want. But I admit, running around as Klaus' little errand boy made me see a bigger picture. Do you know why they call me the God of Demons? I am the veil between the Human and Demon World. My steed was created to function as a True Hell Gate, so a portal could always be opened. And now that I can return to my full power, I will shred the boundaries between the worlds. Between man and demon, God and Devil, Human World and Demon World. Then, everything will be ruined and re-born as one bonded reality. And I won't stop there! The Heavenly Realms will be next! You think the Demon World is scary? MAN, You fuckers would shit your pants if you knew of how deep the Heavenly Hosts go! But no matter. All will become one. A true kingdom for the devil, in MY image. And without further ado..."
The Hell Gates opened its doors, rumbling loudly. Everyone braced for the worst and had their expectations met when untold legions of demons poured forth, exiting the Hell Gate, and rampaging into the battlefield. The remaining allied soldiers immediately put-up resistance, demon after demon being gunned and mowed down. The Ninth Crusaders find success due to their blessed weaponry, but they too would soon be overwhelmed.
Various manners of demons poured through the fields. Dante had no words. For the first time, perhaps it was clear just how much his father went through when he battled the armies of the Underworld.
"Oh my...God" Integra said, for once, her stone-cold resolve was broken. She was frightened, as were many others.
"Jesus Christ. This might be it folks. We can't...we can't win..." Seth collapsed to his knees.
Theokoles slowly lifted himself to the sky, cackling and laughing wildly. Flying around him were particularly nasty and vicious demons. The Sin Scissors, all their classes. The ghost-like apparitions swirling and flying across the battlefield, giving their own awful cackling echo.
And to make matters worse, the remaining soldiers of the Mannequin Army finally recovered, now numbering just 10,000 since Anderson's counter with the holy Nail of Helena. Perhaps it was the opening of the Hell Gate which boosted their fighting resolve. The demonic legion gazed around, seeing devil after devil pouring out and engaging the remaining humans in conflict.
"We...are still here..."
"Yes...the veil is lifted..."
"We...still fight...and we win..."
From the Hell Gate, the Abyss appeared. These high-ranking soldiers and killers from the Demon World were notorious in ages past for being killers of humans and demon hunters, owing to their great magical power and fighting capabilities. Wielding flaming scythes, pitch forks and blades, the white skinned blood themed demons echoed their hissing booming voice, hobbling in droves as they immediately began killing.
The allied forces were now fighting against the legions of Hell itself. But not all was lost. No one noticed the chopper quickly flying overhead, surveying the entire scene.
"It looks like Hell down there" the pilot noted, shaking his head. His two occupants likewise agreed. A man, and a woman. Between them was an enormous black coffin, with strange writing etched on. The woman, wearing a white opened jacket, black skirt with high black boots, and holding a notable rocket launcher sighed and said, "This better work. We'll look stupid showing up with this thing" she said kicking the coffin.
The man, dressed in black pants, boots, fingerless gloves and wearing a hooded black jacket merely scoffed and said, "You'll see soon enough"
The pilot then said, "This is as low as I'm gonna get. Lady, Kazuya, get your asses down there and send these bastards back to Hell!"
Lady, with Kalina Ann in tow, nodded, smirked, and then jumped out of the chopper. Kazuya kicked out Alucard's coffin, then he too, plummeted to the ground.
End Chapter
Ok, that was the most emotional chapter I've ever written. I know it's long, but man I hope this satisfies some of you crazy assholes, haha.
Coming up next; It's Hell on Earth as the allied forces clash against the denizens of the Demon World. Their numbers dwindled, and many of their greatest warriors are incapacitated. Theokoles has opened up the gates of Hell and is sending forth legion after legion. Theokoles himself, in a move to undo the veil and boundaries, heads into the Demon World with Dante and a few others joining in synch.
But there is still hope, one that begins with a very familiar phrase: Release Control Art Restriction System Level Zero
Will Alucard help turn the tide? Get ready, it's the final two chapters in this war to end all wars!