Chapter 47: Creeping Enemies
While all that was going on, Ein and Ketcher were busily preparing the ambush for the assassins. The associates from Ketchers office eventually arrived.
"Achtung Kameraden(Attention Comrades)", Ketcher addresses her associates while Ein stood silent in disbelief, "As explained, this household is expected to come under the attack of members of Komanda Monstra. Our goal is to apprehend the assailants. That's where you four come in."
She addressed her MON associates which turned out to be four female Dopplegangers. All of them had dark grey skin, black scaleras with golden eyes, and long white hair reaching to their legs that seemed to move as if it were an extra limb. However, their most noticeable traits, ones that certainly caught Ein by surprise, was their choice of attire. They each wore incredibly skimpy attire ranging from skin-tight short shorts to ripped denim hot pants to cut off skin tight or loose tops. All them essentially had the body of a gymnast toned, slim figure accentuate by sharply thighs and a firm rear. Also, none of them wore shoes.
"Happy to help out Agent K.", the doppleganger in the black cutoff tank and metallic silver skin tight shorts replied, "I almost didn't believe ya when you gave us the deets. Didn't expect to wake up this morning to take out liminal assasins."
"Still beats being stuck in the office doing stacks paperwork.", another doppleganger in tight green workout shorts and matching crop top added.
"Speaking of 'stacks' who's this tall stack of green tea cake? A new recruit of yours to keep that Jakalope company?", the black tank doppleganger from before inquires looking Ein up and down her hair taking the form of a finger and thumb to her chin.
"I-I'm Ein Zyklon and I'm one of the bodyguards assigned to the owner of this house.", Ein informs.
"Nice to meet'cha. I'm Imara. I'm the leader of this crew, say hi to Portia, Starla, and Erren. Call us team ImPoStEr! ", Imara replies as each of the respective dopplegangers introduce themselves striking a sexy pose.
"Uh hehe nice to meet you all...", Ein politely replies straining a smile until she couldn't ignore the elephant in the room, "I-If you don't mind me asking...why are you all dressed so...casually."
"Ugh, it's part of this stupid policy against "inappropriate" attire.", Portia complained rolling her eyes as her hair changed into a chair, "We're shapeshifter! Why shouldn't we be allowed to walk around in our default form time to time?!"
"Default form?", Ein inquired.
"Basically, HR recieved NUMEROUS complaints about the walking around the base...completely naked so the director required them to wear clothing.", Agent Cody elaborates.
"Seriously, I BET it was that bitch Angela.", Imara stated as the others vurbosely agreed.
"However, due to their physiology, fabric that completely covers the skin restricts their natural ability to change form. Also, it's considered taboo in their culture to...cover their default body.", Cody continued.
"Our people are proud exhibitionists!", Imara stated pumping her fist.
"~Here Here!~", the other stated in proud yet sultry tone.
"Ahem, to avoid accidental forced cultural assimilation charges by I.A. so we decided to find some common ground. Annnd this is the result.", Cody explained
' This is what they call a compromise?', Ein thought with a doubtful expression looking at the shapeshifter incredibly revealing forms.
"Buuut as usual, haters are still gonna hate. It doesn't matters though.", Starla says as she gets close to Cody. Her hair forms into a large hand pulling the man close so they were face-to-face to his surprise and embarrassment. Ein give an incredulous look.
"H-Hey!", Cody utters.
"~I know others like little Cody here really like the change. Dontcha?~", Star spoke tracing her finger against his cheek as her tried not to look at her.
The doppleganger smiles before suddenly feeling a large carapace hand squeeze her head and feeling a overwhelming menacing prescence casting down on her. She turns her head meeting Ketchers nightmarish gaze that put thr fear of God in her.
"If you're done with introductions, my subordinate still has work to do. As do you.", Ketcher suggested her words laced with venom making the Shapeshifter the young man backing away with a her house and her face a couple shades lighter, "Now then, Agent Zyklon if you will."
"R-Right...", Ein replies deciding to forget that image of Ketcher as she takes out her phone presenting photos of Caleb and the girls they took before leaving, "These are the residents you will be masquerading as."
Imara and the others gather around each taking a look at the as they smile with devious fascination.
"I CALL THE DEVIL LADY!", Portia stated.
"I CALL THE WEREWOLF!", Starla joined as all four doppleganger hair wraps around their body as the quickly into their chosen resident. Ein and Cody look in astonishment at how realistic they look. Ein notes how they even managed to copy their scent.
"Ah. M-Ms. Ein can you please not stare at me like that? You'll give me a fright.", Imara in the form of Mirabelle shyly spoke even mimicking her British accent.
"I...um...", Ein uttered not sure how to respond.
"Pfffft HAhaha the look on your face! I'm just messin' with ya Stacks", Imara chortled as Ein give a dirty look, "Wow, been awhile since I turned into someone with more than four limbs."
"Woo! How do I look? Buena or muy bueys?", Portia in the form of Camilla stated running her hands around her body even pushing her boobs up. Ein gives an uneasy expression as Ketcher block Cody eye's with her hand looking a bit annoyed "Hehe I love it when they have tails."
"Definitely Muy Bueno and ditto on the tails girl!", Star in the form of Lyca concurs before the two high five...with their tails.
"Hmm this guy's kinda buff but he could stand to lose a few pounds. Annnd maybe a little short.", Erren in the form of Caleb spoke squeezing her sides in slight disappointment then compares her height to Camilla and Mirabelle being just a couple inches taller than Lyca. She then pulls the hem of his pants peering under the hood. Her eyes widen in surprise, "~Oooh maybe I spoke too soon girls. He's taller than I thought."
"Ooh really? Let me see.", Starla says intrigued as she and others gather around but Ein blocks them.
" What the hell do think you're doing?!", Ein abashedly stated while blushing madly, "Show some respect for the people you're impersonating! How do you even KNOW what it looks like?!"
"Our kind naturally take on the essence and characteristics of anyone we see; if it's just a picture.", Erren explained.
"Of course, we can't transform into anyone who's been dead for for more than 35 years. So asking us to turn into Marilyn Monroe or Hitler is outta the question."
"Why... would we want you to turn into Hitler?", Cody questions.
"...Fulfilling a fantasy of punching one of history's villains.", Portia shrugged as Cody gives her a speechless glare.
"Enough! I have to agree with Agent Zyklon, this NOT acceptable behaviour.", Ketcher stated in a commanding tone and deadly serious glare.
The shapeshifter pick up on her authoritarian presence and immediately straighten up and apologize.
"Now then, with the residents safely being escorted to the safe house we now have to wait for these assassins to make their move. Cody, Ein, and myself will be observing the inside of the house from the security monitors next door. Agent Tyrrian is already surveying this street and will report any unusual activity. The plan is simple. Lure them in and use every means we have to subdue them. Is that clear?"
"Yes!", everyone sounded off in unison
Suddenly, Ein's phone rings prompting her to answer it.
"Drei?...yes, Ketcher is right here along with her associates...yeah I'll put you on speaker.", Ein spoke before putting the phone of speaker, "Ok, you're on."
"Agent Zyklon? Status report.", Ketcher statedinquiringly..r
'Not good! They were tailing us the entire time!', Drei stated over the phone as Ein and the others eyes widen in shock.
"What?! How is that possible?! Agent Tyrrian would have surely spotted anyone behaving even remotely suspicious! I'm going call her down now.", Agent Ketcher says touching her ear piece.
'No need...because she's right here.'
'H-Hello Agent Ketcher...', came the voice of Tyrrian to Ketcher surprise.
"Agent Tyrrian?! What are you doing there?!", Ketcher stated
'Allow me to fill you in.', Drei respond.
The Karmaitachi proceeds to give them a quick run down of everything that's happened in the last half hour. She sat in the shade on the edge of the highway with Tyrrian next to her having partially recovered.
' No way...so...Agent Zack was working with them all along?', Ein inquires over the phone.
"I don't believe so. It's likely the same manipulation ability that was used on Tyrrian.", Drei explains as the Raptor Harpy expression shifts more intensely in shame and frustration.
"Tch, I was careless.", Tyrrian spoke as Drei looks to her, "That human female that was skulking near the van, I knew there was something off about her so I confronted her. I didn't expect her to be so quick. Before I do anything, my entire body suddenly became numb. Next thing I knew, I was here. I'm sorry Agent Ketcher, I should have reported to you immediately."
"That's right...but that's not what is important now! We have to stop them! Do you know where they went?', Ketcher inquired.
"The went off on Exit 37 along highway 231 near Hazel Green. I sent Zwei to catch up with them, I'm going after her.", Drei replies.
"I'm going with her! It's my fault they were able get so close. Please, allow me to atone for my weakness!", Tyrrian solemnly stated touching her wing to her chest.
'...Alright...you will act as their backup. Meanwhile, we'll stay back in case more of their members attempt an attack on the premises. What about Agent Brandi and the hosts other wards?'
"From what I heard from Zwei, they're still on their way to the safe house.", Drei answered.
'Sehr Gut(Very good!), we'll be there as quickly as we can!", Ketcher! Do not lose them!', Ketcher stated before hanging up
Drei puts her phone away then leaps to the levitating on a mini whirlwing at her feet, "You okay to fly?"
"Yes.", Tyrrian stretches out her wings getting her body in running position, "Let's go!"
Drei propells herself with a blast of pressurized air as Tyrrian gets a running flapping a couple times until she was completely airborne and following Drei in the direction the van went.
...at the house...
"Hrrgh! Blasted!", Ketcher cursed clutching the phone in hand nearly crushing it, "How could I be so naive?! I should have thought of the possibility one of their members could disguise themselves."
"Ma'am, it isn't your fault. There's no way we could have predicted this.", Agent Cody assured.
"So they just outwitted us then? Either way you see WE let targets of Komanda Monstra fall into their hands because WE were careless.", Ketcher contested in frustration before Cody places a hand to her shoulder.
"We understand, Ma'am, but we have to focus on our role for now. Mr. Bizzells bodyguards are in pursuit and Videl is still with them. We'll do all we can for them from here.", Cody encourages as Ketchers expression softens her six green eyes meeting his soft blues. Her large brown carapace covered claws touch his hand as a small grin crosses his lips. There was a moment between them that Ein and shapeshifters picked up on.
"...You're right...we will trust in our fellow agents. In the meantime, we cannot let our guard down here.", Ketcher stated, "Agent Cody, contact the Director. We need to make a formal request to border patrol in the Northeast district. We'll impede their movement out of the state as much as possible."
"Yes ma'am!", Cody stated taking out a 2-in-1 tablet.
"What do we do?", Imana inquired as the others start raiding the kitchen.
"Keep acting as decoys.", Ketcher stated.
"Can do.", Imana in saluted.
"If it's fine with you Agent Ketcher, I will survey the outside.", Ein offered.
"Ja! That would be most-"
Before she could finish, Ketcher phone rings. She sees on her contact that it was Brandi and quickly answers.
"Hallo? Agent Brandi? Is every...wait wait! Slow down! Let me put you on speaker.", Ketcher says as Ein others listen in.
'CAN YOU HEAR ME?! I SAID THIS CRAZY ASS DEMON LADY KICKED MY DOOR OFF MY DAMN CAR! THEN SHE TOOK OFF INTO SKY WITH THAT WEREWOLF GIRL SAYING THEY GONNA RESCUE THAT MAN!', Brandi screamed over the as Ketcher and the others(save for the Shapeshifters) look shocked.
"SHE WHAT?!", Ein stated in disbelief her tail standing erect.
"Agent Brandi, where are you right now?", Ketcher inquires
'On the side of the interstate waiting near this overpass across from 30th avenue North. Those girls flew off somewhere in Zack direction.', Brandi explains still quite irate, 'I see state trooper comin' probably because my DOOR blockin up traffic."
Ketcher inhales sharply eyes shut, "Ok, danke Agent Brandi"
'Somebody payin' for my door I know that damn-'
The Arachne immediately hangs up narrowing her gaze to Ein arms crossed in discontent.
"She is...REALLY passionate so...", Ein awkwardly attempts to explain but Ketcher wasn't having it.
Ketcher inhaled again clearly fuming then looks to Cody, "Agent Cody kindly send a car out to pick up Agent Brandi. Und YOU, Agent Zyklon can inform your associates to keep the hosts WARDS out of danger!"
"Listen its-"
"JUST...do it.", Ketcher stated slightly barring her fangs. Ein notices nodding to her with an expression that told her it was best to do as she says.
Ein lightly sighs shoulders slumping a bit and she takes out her phone.
'GODDAMMIT, CAMILLA!', she thought in irritation. Now she's starting to understand how Sterling feels.
...Elsewhere...
Zwei could be seen high above the interstate sky hopping a she surveyed below trying to spot van. As she frantically searched, she feared the worst but refused to entertain the thought until she knew for sure.
Suddenly, a familiar object caught her attention; the car that was tailing her van earlier. She quickly stops and descends on the small construction area. She looks around but doesn't see the van anywhere then goes to inspect the vehicle immediately noticing the damaged wind shield.
'Seems somebody might've put up a fight.', Zwei thought before opening the car door and sniffing the inside. She gets a strong perfume scent but could also make out traces of something else, 'I see, want to throw others off your scent. Nnngh ya definitely picked strongest shit you could huh bitch? My nostrils are burning.'
Zwei searches the inside of the car from the glove compartment to under the seats but doesn't find anything; as if the car had been thoroughly cleaned. She even tried the trunk but the button to open it appeared to have been...melted. She steps away wiping her nose stepping away to clear the scent from her nasal passages before looking around the area.
"Come on, you guys are good...but everyone slips up somewhere.", Zwei says looking around noticing the dirt tracks going onto the main road, "Alright, you're on the road again but where'd you go?", Zwei inquires with slight frustration beginning to sniff the air again hoping to find a clue. She then picks up a familiar scent in the air that made her stop in her tracks; the smell of blood. She tracks the scent coming to a large, flat wood plank covering a small ditch used for pouring cement. She moves the covering to the edge of the ditch and was shocked by what she saw.
'Tch...dammit...', she thought clenching her fists and teeth in frustration.
Before she could investigate further...
"Comin' down!", Drei stated descending down along with Tyrrian.
Zwei is brought out of her milace upon hearing her sisters voice.
"Hi sis...just in time...and it looks like Bird Brain is finally back to her senses.", Zwei chided.
"My deepest apologies. I was careless and allowed myself to-", Tyrrian bemoaned shamefully before Drei jumps in.
"Yeah yeah yeah, we've already been through your emotional arc. What did you find?", Drei dismisses as she inquires to Zwei.
"Looks like they made sure to cover their tracks. All except for those actual tracks.", Zwei says pointing to the foot and tire tracks in the dirts, "There no sign of the van anywhere."
Drei doesn't speak a moment not wanting to mention, in front of Tyrrian, that he could easily teleport with Mirabelle.
"What about Agent Videl and Zack? Any sign of either of them?", Tyrrian inquired.
Zwei pauses a moment looking despondent. Tyrrian picks up her shift in demeanor.
"Why are you quiet? Where are they?", Tyrrian inquired more intensely as Drei notices the trail of blood in the ground toward the ditch Zwei stood behind.
Zwei looks to Tyrrian earnestly and shakes her head then looks back at the ditch. Tyrrian doesn't speak and merely approaches the ditch. She gasps eyes widen as she gazed upon the dead bodies of her fellow agents. Her lip trembles as she clenched her teeth simply staring at them not the visible bullet wound on Videos head. Her wings fall pimply at her sides before she shuts her eyes tightly to stifle a whimper and lowering her head solemnly.
Zwei lays a hand to her wing, "I'm sorry...truly I am.", she spoke giving her an understanding look.
"Thank you. It is alright...they knew what they were in for and I'm sure did their best to protect that man and his ward.", Tyrrian spoke before getting on one knee, crossing her wings in front of her, and bowing her head paying respect to her comrades, "On my honor...Komanda Monstra will not escape."
Zwei and Drei look to each other and not in agreement.
"Our sentiments exactly. It's back to back time, let's get to working tracking them down and quick.", Zwei spoke assuringly as Tyrrian nods to her.
"No doubt Ketcher has informed border patrol by now so it won't be easy for them to leave the state. I'm sure they know this too so...it's possible they are hiding out somewhere nearby but close to the border until it's safe to make a move.", Drei ponders
"I could search the skies for the van.", Tyrrian suggests.
"That would work but I'm certain since they know my sisters and I can do the same, they've changed tactics. If the one who controlled you could disguise herself as human, it's possible they could hide or disguise the van as well.", Drei suggested.
"Then what should we do?", Zwei inquires
"Well, on the flip side, they ARE traveling in a van made for transporting heavier set liminal like Marequine. They can't have gotten very far with all that special needs stuff.", Drei pointed walking around before squatting down picking something up, "Plus, there's this."
Drei shows them a piece of dark purple silk fabric.
"What is that?", Tyrrian inquires inspecting it.
"I'm guessing it's part of the enemy's clothes that likely came during the scuffle between them and your comrades. The scent of perfume isn't as strong so I can make out another scent.", Drei informs.
Zwei quickly sniffs the fabric, "Yeah...I can make out something other than that perfume. A female liminal."
"Correct. So here's the plan, we'll search in the direction the tracks head into. You and I will take to the ground and try to find the scent trail and hopefully where they're hiding while you, Tyrrian search from above. When we locate their hideout, we'll set a trap to lure them out and subdue them. Tyrrian will pursue and take down any that try to escape.", Drei relays to them making a little illustration in the dirt.
"Understood.", Tyrrian says in affirmation.
"Gotcha.", Zwei adds.
"Right. Now let's hurry we have no time to-"
"ZWEI! DREI! UP HERE!", Came a familiar voice from above that caught their attention.
Their gaze up in shock as Lyca and Camilla descend from the sky.
"What the?!", Zwei stated incredulously.
"You've got to be kidding me..." , Drei sighs in discontent.
The pairs land on the construction site and Lyca quickly runs up to them.
"Lycs! What you doing here?!", Zwei stated in slight desperation.
"We saw you guys from up there so-"
"No.", Zwei interrupts facepalming, "WHY are you both here? Period. You're supposed to go going to the safe house. You know, where it's SAFE!"
"How could we possibly feel safe when Senor Caleb and Senorita Mirabelle are not?!", Camilla replied passionately, "I will NOT turn and when MI familia is in danger."
"It is not safe for either of you! Return to Agent Brandi at once! These people are extremely dangerous!", Tyrrian contested.
"Well so are we!", Lyca growled barring her fangs and claws, "ESPESCIALLY when you hurt anyone in MY pack!"
"Stop it! Both of you should listen and go to the safe house. THIS is our job. We will get Caleb and Mirabelle back but we can't work if we're watching you both as well!", Drei stated firmly.
"Who said ju needed to babysit either of us? I can take of myself.", Camilla scoffed arms crossed
"We were just tracking Chief too! I can faintly smell him in that direction.", Lyca stated pointing down the road, "It's kinda faint though."
The weasels and Harpy give them a surprised look astonished by the news.
" By the looks of it, none of ju had an idea were to begin.", Camilla coldly chided, "We are going to save Senor and Mirabelle whether by like it or not. It is your choice if my choose to follow us."
Drei looks to Zwei and Tyrrian realizing they had a stronger lead to finding them but also knowing they couldn't put ICEP students in the line of fire.
"I want you both to see something.", Drei says gesturing them to look behind her. Camilla and Lyca step up curiously to a small ditch. They were shocked upon seeing Videl and Zack lying dead in the dirt. Lyca covered her mouth in horror clearly more surprised than Camilla who simply gave a cold stare.
"They gave their lives trying to protect him and Mirabelle.", Drei informs, "If either one of you meets a similar fate, imagine how he'll feel. He'll be heartbroken I'm sure. Do you really want that?"
"Is this supposed to frighten me?", Camilla calmly spoke sounding unamusef to Tyrrian shock.
"YOU listen here! These were my partners. They can very well be your host or your housemate if you make even ONE careless mistake. It could even be either of YOU if you slip up. These liminals will kill you without a second or even first thought! You don't know what they are truly capable of!", Tyrrian contested visibly irritated by her uncaring attitude.
Camilla look to her with cold, emotionless gaze, "I suppose the same goes for me. Little girl, ju have no idea...what I am capable of."
Tyrrian is caught off guard a second by her tone.
"I intend to rescue mi Amor and NOBODY is going to stop me!", Camilla firmly attests hand to her heart as Lyca clenches her fist staring at the two agents getting her resolve back.
"We're so sorry about your packmates, really.", Lyca spoke sincerely to Tyrrian, "I'm sure if you were in a similar situation you would given everything you have to save them. Well THAT'S what we're doing for Chief and Mira. If it was reversed they would do everything they could save Cami and me. We are family. My pack. I REFUSE to abandon them when they need me the most!", Lyca emphasizes clasping the crescent moon choker pendant on her neck.
Tyrrian goes silent staring at Lyca not knowing what to say or even deny her words.
Drei sighs seeing that it was pointless to continue to argue.
"...Alright.", she utters as Zwei gives her a surprised look as Lyca and Camilla.
"Seriously?", Zwei questioned.
"You can come BUT...the second shit looks like it'll hit the fan...you BOTH get the fuck outta dodge. Understood?", Drei says in a serious tone.
Lyca agrees as does Camilla(begrudgingly).
"Now then, you say you were tracking them too right?", Drei inquires
"Yeah, I was tracking Chief's scent but for some reason is fainter than usual. Like its being overpowered by something. We thought I'd have a better time tracking once we were closer. If had something that belongs to Chief...", Lyca explains in an uncertain tone.
"How about the enemy? This is a piece of their clothing. You think you can find them?", Drei says handing the fabric to the Werewolf.
Lyca nods getting her game face on then closes her eyes takinh a big whiff of the fabric. Her eye shot open full of focus raising her nose to the air sniffing around before focusing her attention to one particular direction.
"There. They're in that direction going into those woods...and they aren't far.", Lyca says her eyes narrowed.
"Good. We're trust you to lead the way but remember our deal...BOTH of you.", Drei emphasizes looking to Lyca and Camilla, the latter turns her head defiantly.
Lyca gets on all fours as the other ascend upwards. She runs down the sides at breakneck speed making a passerby recoil backward in surprise as an oncoming car applies the breaks hard before bounces right off the hood to the driver confusion. Drei and the others tail her from above as she enters the wooded area.
*For immersion, play the latter half of Dragon Ball's 'Clash! 100,000,000 warriors powerful warriors'*
"I can see her movements! She just took a right!",Tyrrian informs changing her position as the others follow.
"Hey. You really think this is a good idea?", Zwei inquires sounding worried.
"No. Not at all. But it's quickest way for to find them compared to our original plan.", Drei answered plainly but with a hint of disapproval.
"You know we can't let them-", Zwei started but Drei interrupts.
"I know. Believe me, neither of them is getting involved.", Drei emphasizes showing a vial of yellow liquid similar to the one used on Tyrrian earlier. Zwei nods in understandingly unaware that Camilla was watching the out the corner of her eye.
...Meanwhile...
An aching feeling crept throughout his body as a fuzzy sensation filled his senses.
"H...th...e", Came a distorted echoey voice stirring him out of his slumber. His eyes flutter open as his vision gradually clears before he's greeted by the sight of a figure standing over him then bends down until they were face-to-face. He greeted by the female Dark Elf's dark purple eyes and malicious smirk, "Hey there, you awake there cowboy?"
"Fuck!", Caleb curses panic jerking him fully awake as he tries to back away from her only to find his movements restrained. He realizes he was lying some dingy, old twin bed with his hands and feet bound to the rusted metal framing.
He looks around noticing he appeared two men in tattered shirts and dirty, worn out pants and shoes in the corner of the room. Both were incredibly skinny and sickly looking as they lay unconscious propped in the corner like rag dolls.
"Looky here, V, the little warrior is a awake.", the feline chortles steps up to his side swaying like a lioness stalking her prey.
"W-Where am I? Where's Moon pie?!", Caleb inquires looking around and trying in vain to pull his restraints loose.
"The Nightmare is still in the van.", Madoka answers examing what appeared to be 3 large needles between her finger, "I gave her enough sedative to keep her under for hours. Plenty of time for what we have to do."
Caleb glares at her relieved to know Mirabelle was ok but enraged by what it also meant for them.
"Hope we're moving out soon. This place reeks!", Kulah complained
"Give me a break. It's the best I could do given the circumstances.", Madoka replied sounding a bit annoyed, "At least those two homeless junkies are quiet now."
"Yeah, the Amphetamine teams product is strong shit. Hard to believe they're able to keep so many clients.", Vernal remarks.
"Trade secret maybe. Now, let's get down to business.", Madoka says walking up to Caleb immediately tenses.
"To defeat the Huns?", Kulah asks with a smirk as Vernal snorts containing a chuckle.
Caleb was caught off guard as Madoka gives an unamusef pause.
"Ignore that. Now then...Caleb is it? I have some questions for you.", Madoka inquires.
"Fuck you.", Caleb says in venomous tone before teleporting. Only, instead for his entire body to flicker violently like defective laptop screen. Suddenly a torrent of yellow energy sparks ripple throughout his body, "AHHRAHHHHHH!", he screams convulsing in agonizing pain like every nerve had just been struck by the point of a nail driven by a hammer. It was the most excruciating thing he had every felt; far worse then when Azaeli tortured him.
When it finally stops Caleb is left gasping and trembling speechless at what he had just experienced. Madoka leans down with an unfazed expression.
"Whoa hohoho! You guys weren't kiddin'! This guy's got some kinda freaky powers. No wonder you two nearly got your asses kicked!", Kulah heartily laugh slapping her hands together.
"Fuck off! I told you he caught me guard! Not my fault that slutty ghost failed to elaborate on the extent what this guys could do!", Vernal contested defensively.
"Yeah like how far can his foot fit up your ass.", Kulah spoke in a haughty tone.
"I WILL shoot your tail off.", Vernal threaten holding a pistol, "Turn ya into one of those bobcats they have around here."
"I don't want THAT or for anyone to call me Bob.", Kulah replies in arms folded turning her face in revulsion.
"Are you two done?", Madoka stated in irritation as both go silent. She then looks to Caleb, "Afraid your little Houdini act isn't going to work. That enslavement collar around your neck will prevent any use of ki. Strangely enough, the pain you feel isn't dependent on the strength of your Ki but the, quote, 'severity of your sins.' They don't even have to be that big. In short, Angels are dicks and you're as powerless. The same goes for that apparent wife of yours."
Caleb listens catching his breath as the pain in his body subsides. He glares at Madoka already fearing what she's actually done to Mirabelle.
Madoka grabs Caleb face squeezing his cheeks forcing him to meet her stern gaze, "Now, what are you really?"
"What are you talking about? I'm human.", Caleb answers plainly.
"Hey does anyone smell anything?", Kulah says in a mischievous tone.
"Hmm, yeah and it's not just the mildew. *snap* That's it! It's bullshit.", Vernal spoke mockingly narrowing her eyes at Caleb, "Come on, you really expect us to believe that?"
"That's right. I know the scent of human males and you're not it.", Kulah contests baring down on him. "You...are something else all together. Something...tasty."
"Heh, I'll say.", Vernal utters with a lecherous gaze unnerving Caleb.
"Focus you two! Ok, Heather told us all about your relationship with the Nightmare...among the others in your little private harem.", Madoka says in a malign tone, "You're quite bold to be doing so under ICEP's nose. Of course, that also means we have greater leverage. You're going to tell us EVERYTHING you know about the Nightmare and you connection with it."
"Why...Why do you want Moon pie?",
"You don't need the specifics just know that we need the power she wields. And now that we know she can bestow that power unto others..."
"Hey, don't forget about the mark or whatever.", Vernal pointed out resting against a wall, "She said it somewhere on his chest."
"Right, thank you.", Madoka replies taking out a small, kuna knife as Caleb recoils. She grabs shirt warning him not to move before she slices the fabric of his shirt leaving his chest bare. Kulah stares at him licking her lip as her feline tail sways. Madoka eyes widen seeing the clan mark on her pectoral already sensing the faint energy it emitted. She touches it making him flinch examining it curiously, "I see...so she created some sort of link with you where you she transmit some of her Ki to you. Like a battery transferring energy to a motor."
"The only thing now is tell us how to get it to form links with others.", Vernal suggests eyeing Caleb while gesturing to one of her side arms imposingly.
"I'm not telling y'all a DAMN thing!", Caleb barks at the three liminal.
"Yep, saw that one coming.", Madoka straightens up walking around the bed, "Don't worry, we've got time. We're going to be hulledup up here a while anyway until partners are ready. That's more than enough time to get what we want out of you."
"You won't get away with this. MON and my bodyguards are coming for you and they WILL find you!", Caleb stated.
Kulah and Vernal sour but amused looks as Madoka stops near the foot of the bed.
"Ah, the Karmaitachi. Don't worry, I already took care of that.", Madoka as Caleb eyes widen in shock, "I took control of that Raptor Harpy and beset her on them."
Caleb pauses then cracks a smirk and lightly chuckle to her and the others surprise, "Hehe you really THAT'll stop them. I bet they already took care that in like...ONE minute. Probably already called for backup too and looking for y'all. Like I said, y'all aren't getting away."
"Tch, you sure have a lot of faith in those Karmaitachi of yours.", Vernal says in an unamused tone.
"It's not about faith it's about facts. The fact is you guys can't hide forever; especially with my Weasel ninjas on your tail coming to BEAT y'all asses.", Caleb stated confidently with a smirk already seeing the irritated on their faces.
"Why you piece of-", Kulah started before Madoka stops her and she backs off glaring intensely at the human.
"I know what you're trying to do...but it won't work. We are not amateurs. We've evaded capture by ICEP hell entire goverments for well over a decade. You may think help is on the way, but they won't find us. I made sure of that.", Madoka informs in a matter of fact tone, " So the fact that you're not aware of is that YOU are alive...for now. Only for now. We need a little information out of you then we're done."
Caleb goes silent glaring at her as Kulah and Vernal grin cockily.
"Another fact you haven't considered is about me. You wouldn't know this but back in my former clan, I was what you Westerners would call an executioners but, occasionally, I would be responsible for getting information out of criminals.", Madoka spoke before putting something in both her ears then creating a small pink magic seal in her palm, "Naturally. I've developed many techniques for both. One of my MOST effective methods of extraction I call 'Shinkei kirā' or roughly translated 'Nerve killer'", she spoke brandishing five long needles in her hand rippling with pink aura. Caleb could make out her expression back of the mask over her face but he could see in her eyes a cold, calculated malice.
"Blah blah blah stop giving him your back story and get on with it.", Vernal urges.
"Fine fine.", Madoka relents kneeling beside his legs. Caleb heart races and chest heaving in anticipation as she positions one of the glowing needs near his shin, "This little area is where you'll find the saphenous nerve. The pain is especially excruciating for men. How do form a link with the Nightmare?"
Caleb open his mouth for a second then quickly clenched his teeth stifling himself while glaring at her.
"Ok then.", She says as the needle easily sinks right into his leg without obstruction.
"AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!", Caleb screams at top of his lungs a tremendous amount of pain shooting through every nerve in leg. It was as if his very blood had turned into incredibly sharp blades and forcefully tearing right through every muscle, tendon, and skin. He arches his back wailing louder and thrashing as she sunk the needle by another centimeter. Kulah smirks in amusement watching with a grin. Vernal wears a similar expression but covers her sensitive ears; kinda wished she had earplugs like Madoka.
...Meanwhile across the border...
Back at Komanda Monstras base, Satella sat in her usual spot with a contemplative expression and casually drinking, from a wine glass, a serving a A positive blood. Hush could be seen busily typing on a laptop. They are then approached by Ember.
"Satella. I've recieved word from Madoka and the others.", Stated the Salamander as she enters the room.
"And?", Satella inquires expectantly.
"They managed to secure the Nightmare...but..."
"But...what?", Satella ask again her tone a bit more forceful.
"Buuut...ICEP somehow found out about their arrival to the target address so...there's been a change of plans since border security is on much higher alert. Whatsmore, it seems they are being pursued by the target's bodyguards.", Ember quickly explained already seeing the displeasure in the Vampire eyes.
A crack suddenly forms on the Vampire wine glass before she takes a deep breath, "*sharp inhale* haaaa...how far are they from the border?"
"Not far.", came another voice as a familiar small figure with goat horns steps from behind the Salamanders carrying her large scythe over her shoulder, "I can still make the path for them. I'm just waiting for the Jinko and Inari to get in position."
"They have names. I would appreciate if you'd use them.", Ember spoke with discontent glaring down at the Baphomet.
"Look, Mama Rose just asked me to assist you. That doesn't mean I want to get chummy. It's just business.", Fantina spoke unflinchingly glaring back.
"Enough.", Satella stated forcing both parties to back down. Hush stops researching a moment looking to her inquisitively before resuming her work, "Now then, Ember, you mentioned that the target had bodyguards pursuing Madoka's team? Anything specific about who they are?"
"Not much, other than the fact there are three of them. Also...they are Karmaitachi."
*crack*
The sudden sound of the keyboard keys snapping caught their ear and they looked to see Hush. Her body trembles with her expression contorted into a rage filled scowl and murderous glare. All accompanied by a low hissing sound escaped her abdomen. Ember looks to her with concern as Satella closes her eyes in thought.
"The hell is wrong with her?", Fantina inquires raising an eyebrow.
" HOW DARE YO-", Ember barks at Fantina as the flames on her tail ignite brighter.
"EMBER!", Satella interjects forcing the Salamander to withdraw as the flames die down. She look to Fantina, "THAT is none your concern...Baphomet. Simply focus on your role."
Fantina give a disdainful look before her phone suddenly rings. She answers it acknowledging that it was Nekami on the other end confirming they were in position. Fantina gives her approval and hangs up then looks between Satella and Ember.
" Well then...guess I'll go focus on my role. Later.", Fantina scoffs before teleporting out of the room as Ember gives a displeased look before turn back to Hush who was still fuming.
"Hush.", Satella spoke snapping the mantis from her thoughts as she glances around remembering where she was before obediently refocusing on Satella, "It is fine. They will not succeed. We will eliminate them all."
Hush appears to calm down staring at Satella then looking to Ember who smiles warmly. The mantis nods before resuming working on the laptop; even placing the broken keys back in their spots.
Satella looks to Ember, "Be ready to move. I have a task for you specifically."
"Right.", Ember agrees with a smirk.
Satella touches the crack on the wine glass and mysterious dark red energy is emitted as it slowly fades leaving the glass restored to its former state. She takes a sip of the dark red liquid collecting her thoughts as she prepares for the next step in their plan.
...
Lyca could be seen on the side of the road sniffing the ground on all fours as Zwei and Camilla stood beside her in anticipation.
"Got anything, Lycs?", Zwei inquired
Lyca stands up with a profoundly confused expression, "I-I don't understand."
"What is wrong Senora?", Camilla asks
"I can't smell him anymore.", Lyca says in a fearful tone as her ears droop downwards.
"What do you mean?", Zwei steps up.
" It's like his scent just stops hear. Afterwards it's...it's just...gone. As if he just...dissappeared.", Lyca explains looking to the ground in panic and confusion.
Zwei and Camilla look to her in confusion unsure how to respond to the news. At that moment, Drei and Tyrrian descend from the sky landing beside them.
"Is everything alright? You guys just suddenly stopped.", Drei asks.
"She lost the trail.", Zwei uttered without thinking, "I-I mean! His scent...scent is just gone. We can't track him."
Tyrrian gives a shocked looked as Drei closes her eyes, hands to her hip in contemplation, starting to regret allowing them to come
" How could I lose his scent?! How are we going to find Chief and Mira now?!", Lyca stated in frustration and sadness.
"~Senora~...it is alright. We will find another way.", Camilla assured trying to comfort her friend.
Zwei approaches the She-wolf, "Yeah Lycs, don't beat yourself up. You tried your best."
"Not good enough! This was the ONE thing I thought I could do to help! But I can't even track him now. N-Now that I think about it, I can't really smell much of anything anymore!", Lyca stated sadly, beating herself up.
Drei eyes shot open upon hearing that and looks to the She-wolf.
"Come on Lycs, I think you're just overeac-", Zwei stops midsentence as she places a hand on Lyca should. She inhales a bit realizing she smelled...absolutely nothing, "Hey, I can't smell anything either."
"Not funny Zwei.", Lyca spoke whimpered.
"No really! I can't smell anything.", Zwei informs as the others look to her curiously. She looks around then picks up a discarded McDonald's cup off the side of the road and sniffs it. Her eyes widening in shock, "Nothing! I smell LITERALLY nothing!"
Drei and the others give curious and bewildered looks before Tyrrian steps up to where Lyca and Zwei stood.
"She's right. The entire area has no scent whatsoever!", the Harpy confirms.
Drei starts forming a hypothesis and decides to test it.
"All of you, step back over here.", Drei instructs. They each take a few steps back, "Do you smell anything now?"
"Sniff...yeah. I can smell everything now...including this flower...it smells awful!", Zwei stated tossing the plant away.
"I can smell again too!", Lyca stated relieved.
"As can I.", Tyrrian answered.
Drei nods to herself then steps up to kneel at the edge of where they all stood and touches her hand to the ground, "I see. It some kind of technique they have to conceal their presence from liminals like Ms. Kessler. I can sense the same Ki from earlier when Tyrrian was being controlled."
Camilla kneels down as well touching her fingers to the road focusing her energy, "Jes...I can now sense a strange mana as well. It is concealed before so I could not sense it but, now that I know where it's projecting from..."
A light blue aura emanates from the Elder Devil's body before she taps the road creating a small blue ripple. Immediately, to the other's shock, an enormous dark pink magic seal with kanji characters scrawled on the arc rings appears. They see that it stretched out over a very large radius cutting through much of the land and even the river.
"Whoa...that's a big seal.", Zwei spoke in awe.
"We must be very close. Why else would they go through such effort?", Tyrrian points out.
"Jes, this is a substantial amount of mana spread over a large distance. It is over a mile in diameter.", Camilla commented focus on the seal's runes.
"A mile?! Jeez, that's a bit overboard.", Zwei stated shocked.
"Jes...and from what I can tell...the one who cast this belongs to mi gente. A Devil", Camilla informs.
"I can only imagine the strain the caster is under to perform such a skill.", Drei spoke feeling the energy before something catches her attention, "And it looks like robbing us of our tracking abilities isn't it's only it's only purpose."
"I see ju sensed it as well.", Camilla replies mildly intrigued.
"I am not a novice when comes to sensing Ki.", Drei assured.
"What are you guys talking about?", Lyca asks tilting her head in confusion.
"Zwei. Shuriken me.", Drei demanded.
"Sure."
Zwei hands her the throwing weapon and Drei tosses it on a spot she and Lyca stood. At that instant, a long, thin space shaped spear composed of dark pink energy springs right out from the ground small magic seal. The others look on in shock.
"There are traps just like this throughout the area.", Camilla told them looking over shoulder in a serious tone.
"I was standing right there.", Lyca utters as realization dawns on her, "If I had taken just one more step..."
Zwei looks to her not able to find the words deny her statement.
"You understand the kind of people you're dealing with now? Still think you can handle this?", Drei inquires as Camilla looks to the She-wolf.
Lyca is silent a moment before she clenched her fist, then claps the sides of her face getting her gameface back on.
"Yeah, I do! But I'm not giving up! I won't get careless again!", Lyca assured as Zwei gives an uncertain and slightly worried look
"Ju heard her.", Camilla says giving a look to the Karmaitachi who sighs.
"How should we proceed?", Tyrrian asks.
"We can't proceed on foot due to the danger of concealed traps. Also, there's the possibility they could be alerted to our presence. Flying would be redundant since we can't pinpoint their actual position.", Drei explains.
"Then the only real issue is this barrier. We need to disable it somehow.", Tyrrian points out.
"Leave that to me.", Camilla affirms as Drei and the others look to her.
"Are you sure about that?", Drei inquires.
"Please, I learned to dispel enemy spell seals since I was a child. This is...just bigger than I am used to. If I focus mi mana and match it's power, I should be able the to completely dispel it.", Camilla says as shimmering red aura emanated from her body.
"No. I can sense our mana are too disimilar to cause it to destablilize. Just leave it to me. I know what I am doing!"
Drei gives a look before relenting, "I hope you do."
"Given that we are in this situation at ALL, your skepticism is very misplaced.", Camilla replies a bit sarcastically as Drei doesn't try to deny her statement.
"Tyrrian. You should survey from above. If you notice anything strange or out of place let us know.", Drei requests
"Understood."
The Harpy immediately propels herself upward as Lyca watched Camilla eagerly and looking ahead ready to continue her tracking the second this barrier was taken care of. Drei looks to Zwei who was a bit more fixated on Lyca already knowing she was very concerned about her.
Camilla sat focusing her energy as the pink energy line started changing to bright red while quickly spreading throughout the rest of the seal.
'Do not fear mi Amor(my love). I am coming!', Camila thought as her aura flares brighter.
...Back to Caleb...
"You really aren't making this easy on yourself.", Madoka spoke coldly her patience growing thin before piercing his right arm with a mana needle.
"AHHHHHAAAA FUCK! FUHAAHHHK!", Caleb scream out in pure agony as all his body felt as though they were being ripped to shreds by rotating blades from the inside out. Even the slightest twitch sent a wave of excruciating pain through his nerves. His mind felt like it was breaking along with his body from the incomprehensible agony. Tears rolls down his cheeks as he choked and gagged barely able to construct a sentence. He desperately wanted this torment to end.
"Haaa...well that's all the major brachiyal and sacral plexus nerve groups.", Madoka spoke arms folded seeing the several mana needles already sticking out of the man's arms, legs, even parts of his chest. .
"Damn, almost a half-hour of your acupuncture technique. Usually your victims would've either passed out or died of shock after like...ten minutes. This guy is deeeefinitely something else.", Vernal commented looking over Caleb.
"Yeah. Talk about fortitude.", Kulah spoke with a narrowing gaze full of intent.
"Stubborness would be the more appropriate term.", Madoka chided before turning her attention to Caleb. She does a ninja gesture with her hand and the pink aura needle disappear making Caleb gasp in relief. However, he could still feel lingering pain in the areas he was stuck. Madoka goes to his side standing over him.
"Listen, you, we don't have day and frankly neither do you at this rate. Answer a few questions about the Nightmare and I promise this will be over quicker. I'm sure you're quite tired. Just let go, and make it easier for yourself.", the Ninja Devil offered caressing his cheek forcing him to look at her.
Caleb was silent for what felt like an eternity as he stared in her now comforting pink eyes. For a second, the thought of taking the offer crossed his mind; if only to avoid that terribly, agonizing experience again. At that moment, memories of Mirabelle flooded his mind. He lingered one's like the botanical garden date where she truly showed her devotion to him on every level. The woman who loved him and would NEVER betray him.
He clenched his teeth mentally slapping himself angry that he even considered for a second doing that to his Moon pie. Caleb look up and glares at the Kunoichi.
"Kill me.", He uttered, to surprise of Madoka and the others, as tears formed in his eyes, "I won't...tell you...a goddamn thing. Not you. Not your...boss in your little crime family. Nobody. So just kill me. I don't care. You hear me? Just FUCKING kill me!"
Madoka and the others were silent a moment. Kulah and Vernal exchange looks as Madoka stares coldly at him before unsheathing her wakazashi until the very sharp, polished bladed was fully visible. She then guides the tip right underneath his neck as Caleb looks in anticipation as his heart races a mile a second. Kulah and Vernal watch seeing she was going to do.
The ninja Devil stares at the young lying under her blade instantly reminded of a similar situation in her life where she held the blade to own lovers neck. The scent Caleb emitted reminded her of what she lost by her own hand...all in the service of her clan.
"Your loyalty to your lover in admirable...but it's an inconvenience. If you refuse to give specifics about her abilities then you are off no use to us. Besides...we can always get what we need from the Nightmare herself. I imagine she'll be...more cooperative after this.", Madoka spoke morosely pushing the blade at the skin of his neck just on his carotid drawing a little blood as Caleb shuts his eyes. Her palm placed precariously at the handle with one little push meaning end of the young man's life. Madoka looks at him as if in thought as she motions her hand about to thrust. Suddenly...
*Generic factory ringtone*
Madoka phone rings catching her attention yet she doesn't take her intense gaze off Caleb. She her hand from the bottom of the handle answers the device.
"What is it?...yes...are they ready?...good.", Madoka hangs up the phone then removes the blade, to Caleb and other two surprise, before resheathing her blade. She looks to her comrades, "They're ready. I'm heading out."
"Wait. We're not still doing the border plan right? I'm pretty sure ICEP is wise to us by now.", Vernal asks.
"No. I've already informed Ranks. We're going with the backup.", Madoka spoke grabbing her katana and a small black shoulder bag.
"Hopefully that little goat bitch will cooperate. What about him?", Vernal says pointing to Caleb with her thumb.
"I'll leave him into your hands.", Madoka spoke as a wide smile grew on Kulah's face.
"Hehe, you got it.", Vernal says in a mischevous tone.
"But Vernal, I want you outside in case any backup to rescue does arrive."
"Awww what?", Vernal whined incredulously.
"My Mattaka Shimino no jutsu should impede them greatly. They'll be easy targets.", Madoka encourages.
"Haa fine, whatever.", Vernal relents arms folded rolling her eyes.
"Counting on you. Don't fuck up like Heather, wherever she is.", Madoka says as she left out the room.
"Yeah, don't intend to! Thanks for the extra motivation.", Vernal stated sarcastically as Kulah snickers at her. Vernal casually flips her off, "Fuck you."
"Hey, don't worry V, I'll let ya have him too...when I'm done with him.", Kulah says hands to her hips flashing a toothy grin at Caleb. He recoils with a gulp.
"Yeah you better.", Vernal replies as she grab her rifle slinging it on her back, "Believe me, I reaaalllly wanna get a second round with him."
Caleb shoots her a look as she glares at him with a mix of malice and hunger.
"Heh, I bet you do. Hurry up and take out his little party so you can get back to the fun."
"That's the plan. For now, have fun Kit Cat.", Vernal chuckled smirking at Caleb before leaving the room.
Caleb looks to the Ocelomeh who approaches him swaying like a cat ready to pounce on her helpless prey.
...Meanwhile...
Camilla was still concentrating on breaking the seal. She put in extra effort to allow her energy to overpower her adversary's but made sure to take caution when it came to the runes as the slightest mistake could alert them. Now she was more than halfway done.
The others stood aside waiting for their chance as Tyrrian surveyed above.
* 'I Wanna Rock' by Twisted Sister ringtone*
Drei takes her phone and sees what she's been dreading since they set out; Ein on the caller ID.
"Hi Ein.", Drei answers in a monotone voice as Zwei turns to her with panic expression waving her not to keep quiet about Lyca and Camilla. She answer the phone putting it on speaker.
'DREI! I've been trying to reach you for over half and hour! Listen, Ms. Kessler and Sartana BROKE out Agent Brandi's custody on the freeway and we have NO idea where they are and-'
"They're with us.", Drei answers plainly as Zwei facepalms.
The phone was silent for a moment.
'W-What? What do you mean they're with you?!', Ein shouts in disbelief.
"I mean they are with me, Zwei and Tyrrian.", Drei answers again pointing the phone in their direction
"H-Hi Ein.", Lyca utters trying to sound cheerful as Zwei give her a 'Are you serious?' look.
"Wha...Bu...Ya...WHY?!", Ein shouted over phone.
"Well, the long and short of it is, we had no lead to find Bizzell or Marequine but now we do in the form of Kessler's far more acute sense of smell. Trust me, this was NOT my first option."
'WHY IS IT AN OPTION AT ALL?! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW DANGEROUS THIS IS?!'
"Yes I do.", Drei answered plainly.
'THEY CAN BE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR FAR WORSE! IMAGINE HOW THAT'D GO OVER FOR US! PLUS THEY'RE ICEP STUDENTS SO THAT MAKES IT EVEN WORSE!'
"I know."
'DO YOU KNOW WHAT'LL HAPPEN TO US?! TO THEM?!'
"I know I KNOW!", Drei raises her voice surprising Zwei and the others...even Ein, "Haaa...I completely understand Ein...but we don't have many options NOR the time. The two agents escorting Caleb and Mirabelle are dead."
'W-What...?', Ein spoke over the phone as Agent Ketcher and Cody voiced their shock in the background.
"Yes, so we don't have time to argue! Any moment Caleb could be killed and Mirabelle could closer to the border. If these two could help in any way in finding them, then we're taking it.", Drei affirms while Lyca and the others listen in.
'Drei...', Ein pauses on the phone. She obviously didn't like the idea at all, especially considering their reckless nature, 'Rhaaa ok ok...listen...they CAN'T get involved ANY further. They are just taking you where Komanda Monstra hiding. They CAN'T engage them! Understand?'
"They've both seen what happened to the two agents. They understand they people we're dealing with. You don't have worry. Believe me, we will do everything in our power to keep them out of the conflict should it arise.", Drei stated touching her side feeling the vial throught her clothes while Zwei nodded to herself.
'...I believe you just...all of you...be safe.', Ein says in a worried tone.
"Always.", Drei spoke trying to ease her sister before hanging up. She then looks to Camilla, "How much longer?"
"Any momento now. I can already feel it's integrity growing weaker.", Camilla replied
"Good. The second it breaks we need to hurry.", Drei urges. She didn't want to stress the others even more but she had a bad feeling. Worst part is, it's usually right.
Camilla gives the Karmaitachi a side glare. Unbeknownst to Drei, Camilla overheard her plan to 'keep them out of the fight' and already to measures. Using a magic seal, she discretely drained the liquid out of the vial leaving it empty while in her clothes. She had every intention of making these bitches pay for attacking her first REAL home.
...Back to Caleb...
His eyes were fixed on the cat lady approaching him. She her fur-covered five digit cat-like paws against the raggedy mattress getting to exposed skin. Caleb flinched feeling her soft fur hand brush against his flesh causing the Ocelomeh to smirk at his reaction.
"What's wrong? Ya scared?", Kulah asks playfully.
Caleb glares at her ane reluctantly answers, "Yeah...but you should be even more so."
"Oh? Why's that? Still putting all your hope in this jackasses from ICEP?", Kulah mocked.
"Yeah, I am, but errrgh...that's not the only reason.", Caleb wincing at the lingering soreness in his body as Kulah raises an eyebrow, "People like you always get what's coming to you. That's...just how it is. You can...say your just following the Malones orders all you want but...it won't make a difference. Bills comes due for everybody."
Kulah looks to him as a smile grew on her face and a chuckle began to rise in her. She quickly transitions to full on hysterical laughter much to Caleb's confusion.
"HAAAAHAHAHAHA Ahaha *wheeze* haaa y-you SERIOUSLY think we're doing all this for THOSE assholes?!", she laughed holding her side's.
"W-What?", Caleb uttered as Kulah laughter dies down.
"Haaa hehe *inhales* Listen here, we don't give a fuck about that old-ass redhead bitch or her merry band of fuckboys. We want the Nightmare's power for ourselves. We're planning something big and it involves taking what's rightfully ours. I mean it's about time you human, you men especially, know where your place is." Kulah informs as Caleb listened in shock by what he just learned.
Suddenly, the Ocelomeh touches her rough paw to his chest, letting the tips of her claws rest against his flesh before gingerly dragging down his stomach making him shudder.
"Hmmm, and while we're on that topic. I don't know it is, but there's something about you I reeeally like. You're tough and really strong willed.", Kulah spoke as her claws resting as the hem of his pants. She then gets leans in getting uncomfortably close to his face to where he could feel her hot breath against him, "Plus, your scent is so...appetizing. I could sense even Madoka was trying her best to keep her cool. You're a really interesting specimen."
"W-What the hell are you talking about?!", Caleb stated his nervousness rising.
"I'm think you know what I'm talking about.", He looks in see her golden brown feline eyes full of lust as she emitted a low purring sound, "Heather gave us plenty info about your relationship with your houseguests. THREE different liminals? Sometimes all at ONCE? Consider my interest peaked. Gotta say, I was afraid I wouldn't have the chance to taste you myself."
Caleb eyes widened not liking where this was heading. The Ocelomeh then climbs on the bed straddling his waist. Caleb widen seeing the feline liminal glaring down with heated breath and flushed cheek accompanied by a wicked smile. She leans down letting her breasts must to his chest send chill down through his body.
"You like that?", Kulah purred licking his neck hungrily making Caleb wince at the coarsness of her wet muscle.
"No! S-Stop it", He clenching his teeth fighting the urge to be aroused before she grabs her face with one hand.
"Hehe, yeah you are. I can see it on your face...and I can FEEL it down here.", Kulah emphasizes biting her lip while grinding her plump rear against his groin.
Caleb clenched his teeth cursing his body's involuntary response.
"I wanna make you an offer that'll benefit us both.", Kulah offers.
"W-What kind of offer?"
"My species has a tradition for when we find a suitable male where we make them our 'Bakairi'. That's our word for 'mate' but it also mean 'slave'; slave mate, basically. You submit to me and I spare your life and keep to others from killing you. Of course, if they wanna piece of you like I'm sure V does, I'd permit it. You've even got one of these collars on so all I'd need to do is imprint you to me. What do you say?", Kulah offers tapping her claw to the collar around his neck grinding her hips harder into his groin.
Caleb was shocked by her proposal on a number of levels as he clenched his teeth stifling a groan and shut his eyes turning away. Kulah then grips his cheeks hard forcing him to look at her.
"Don't turn away from me! I said, what do you say?", she stated in agitation and an unhinged smile. Her vicious gaze meeting his eye line.
Caleb felt a surge a fear but refused to submit. He inhaled calming himself using the breathing techniques he learned from his training with the girls. He scowls at the Ocelomeh who was taken aback. She was even more surprised to find the stiffness in his loins was gradually growing softer.
"I say...hell no.", Caleb spoke in revulsion, "Now get your fat ass off me. You're disgusting."
Kulah was taken aback as an angry scowl grew on her face. She grip his face even harder hurt his lower as she forced him up to her face.
"I had a feeling you wouldn't make this easy.", She growled barring her fangs before a pleased grin grow on her face, "But that's just fine by me. I can do it the natural way! The way tezcatlipoca always intended!", the Ocelomeh stated before reaching down hastily undoing Calebs belt as he thrashes at her intrusion.
"Gahhh GET OFF ME!", Caleb shouted before headbutting the Ocelomeh as hard as he could in the face hearing. There was an audible crack as the feline rears back groaning covering her mouth and nose as Caleb shakes his head reeling from the impact.
Kulah clenches her fist in rage emitting a growl before she wipes the blood from her nose. She smiles in amusement.
"Yeah! You still got some FIRE in that belly! Good, the more you fight the longer it LASTS! She stated before slamming her fist hard onto Caleb stomach making him lurch upward gagging. She then delivers a few more hard punches, "HAHA I l enjoy a foreplay every now and again!"
"KYAGH!", Caleb chokes coughing up a mixture of vomit and blood his mouth agape as he gagged and coughed. He then feels Kulah quickly removing his belt and pants proceeding to move them down his thighs. He then feels her large feline paws grabs his hand as he chokes out unintelligible protest.
"Oooh it looks even better in person. And it tastes...", She says before dragging her tongue up his flacid shaft making him recoil at the sensation unable to suppress a groan, "Delicious."
"St..ahp. Stop.", Caleb uttered helplessly.
"Hmm, I don't believe I will. What is gonna happen is your gonna get hard and I'M ride you until I'm satisfied.", Kulah says in a sadistic tone placing the sharp ends of her claws under his penis making him flinch, "But one can't happen without the other. Now be a man and get hard already! Either you let me use it...or...you can lose it."
Caleb clenched his teeth feeling trapped at the mercy of this despicable bitch. Not wanting to depart from his manhood, he, very reluctantly, allowed her to proceed. The Ocelomeh smiled in satisfaction beginning to stroke him off.
...meanwhile...
Madoka could be seen by walking up by the side of the road coming up to a large overgrown conifer bush. She does a ninja sigh and part of the bush vanishes in a cloud of smoke revealing the van door. She peers inside seeing the Nightmare was still unconscious. She was walks around to the rest of the Bush about to do another hand sign when she suddenly felt a disturbance. At that moment, the entire bush vanishes in a cloud of smoke to her confusion. Then, then the rows of trees on the side of the road all began vanishing in clouds of smoke revealing the driveway to poorly maintained driveway leading to a large, delabidated two story house she and the others were using.
Her sense of urgency rising, she tap kneels down and taps the road making the lines of a magic seal appears. A surge of red electricity forces her to withdraw her hand as her worst fear was confirmed. Her jutsu had been broken and, judging the Ki she felt, it was a powerful user. A Devil in fact.
"Dammit. Never a dull moment.", Madoka spoke in slight annoyance as she takes out a slip of paper. She performs a few hand signs and the paper erupts with a poof of smoke.
Above her, a winged figure could be seen observing her and the house before circling around heading into another direction.
...Not too far away...
Lyca could be seen running on all fours down the side of the road while the others tailed her from above. The second the barrier was destroyed, they wasted no time in resuming the hunt.
Suddenly, Tyrrian swoops in joining the others.
"I spotted the van! They're along this road and to the side is a dirt path with small rundown house. They're on the move! ", the Harpy inform.
"Excellent. We can proceed with the original plan! Get as HIGH as you outside their radar but don't lose sight of that van!", Drei advised
"Understood!", Tyrrian stated, she flaps her wings propelling herself upwards. Before she could get high enough, a spray of blood and feathers is expelled behind her sending her into a tailspin.
"Gyahh!", the Harpy elicits as Drei and the others look back in shock watching the Harpy quickly descend then go tumbling to the ground rolling down into dirt trench kicking up a lot of dust.
"Bird Brain!", Zwei stated in shock before her tails stand erect sensing danger close by. Camilla felt something similar. Though, in her case, it more so came from a gunshot her hypersensitive ears picked up followed by a whistling sound...heading towards them!
"GET DOWN!", Camilla shouted tackling the weasel along with herself downwards as sniper bullet whizzes by knicking a small section of her wing, "Guah!", she elicited from the pain as they roll to the ground.
Lyca skids to a hault looking to them in confusion and horror, "Cami!? Guys! What happ-"
LYCS GET DOWN!" Zwei shouted, cutting her off and tackling her into the trees on the side of the road as a bullet ricocheted off the road. "Sniper!"
Drei and Camilla quickly picked themselves up. The weasel quickly noticed the bleeding wound on her wing. Camilla's eyes widened, going alert. The shields them had a large green magic seal. Instead of bouncing off, the round piercing the seal grazed the Elder Devil's shoulder as the seal dissipated away into a mess of green sparkles. Ignoring the pain and sensing another round fired, Camilla scooped up Drei and side flipped, rolling with her down the side of the road into the tall grass of trees.
Atop a tree on a large, thick branch using it as a vantage point, Vernal could be seen reloading her rifle.
"Oh wooow, they actually sent a mana-user and a strong one at that if they broke through Madoka's barrier. Not a problem, with these babies..." Vernal smirked, reloading more enchanted bullets, "Be it Dragon or Lich, you'll become my bitch. Ooh I should write that down."
Below, Drei and the others took cover in the wooded area.
"Are you alright?" Camilla asked Drei in a concerned tone and wincing from the pain.
"...Yeah. Thanks. What about you though?" Drei inquired, noticing the wounds on her wing and shoulder healing much slower than usual. She then looked at Agent Tyrrian lying motionless in the tall glass and clenched her fist.
"I will live," Camilla plainly replied.
"Not if we step in their firing line!" Zwei said, standing behind a tree, "Dammit, the van's getting away but we gotta take care of that sniper."
"They don't appear to be using normal ammunition. One the rounds completely destroyed Camilla's barrier...and it also appears to drastically slow her healing factor," Drei informed, looking around and trying to find the sniper.
"Tsk, I have encountered this before. That filthy Angel used a similar weapon during out battle," Camilla bitterly spat as the shoulder wound started to close.
"Zwei...what do we do?" Lyca, on her knees, inquired in a worried tone.
"I don't know, Lycs...but we'll- " Zwei knelt down, trying to assure the She-wolf but was cut off when a sniper round pierced right through the tree Zwei was standing behind.
They all paused in shock, seeing tye round create a small, clean hole through the trunk of the thick oak tree. Zwei stared at the hole realizing, if she hadn't squatted right now her brains would've been all over the ground.
"Th-those DEFINITELY are no ordinary bullets," Zwei stated, still reeling.
"Then we can't afford mistakes," Drei replied, looking at Zwei seriously. Zwei nodded in understanding as Drei reached into her sleeves, searching for the vial and pulled it out. To her shock, she saw that the entire vial was empty.
"I agree...we cannot afford mistakes..." Camilla spoke, getting the weasel's attention, "That includes keeping me out of the battle."
"What did you do, Camilla?" Drei asked in a very serious tone.
"I told you WE are going to rescue them. You both cannot do this yourselves. They easily killed the bird girl over there and they nearly came close to killing you! We are doing this together and that is the end!" Camilla contested, refusing to back down.
Drei and Zwei were left speechless and a bit frustrated, trying figure the best way around this predicament.
Suddenly, a loud scream of a familiar voice caught their attention. They instantly recognize it as Caleb's voice.
"CHIEF!", "SENOR!", "BOSS?!", the three of them exclaimed in unison.
Up in the tree, Vernal's elven ear perked up.
"Hm, sounds like Fuzzy's doing a little foreplay first. Guess I'd better mop up here quick sound I too can enjoy my time with the welp," the Dark elf casually whispered, cocking her rifle and looking through the scope, "Now wheeeere are you hiding."
"CHIEF'S IN TROUBLE! HANG ON WE'RE COMING!" Lyca screamed, taking off on all fours through the woods in the direction of the scream.
"LYCA WAIT, don't go off on your own!" Zwei shouted, going after her.
"Catch up to her Zwei!" Drei ordered, pointing in the the direction she ran. Camilla quickly proceeded after them as Drei yelled, "No, stop!"
Camilla ears perked. The sound of a gun firing caught her attention mid-stride, followed by the whizzing sound again. She quickly ducked to the ground as a bullet went by, piercing holes in a couple tree trunks.
"Dammit, missed again! This isn't like me at all," Vernal huffed quetly in annoyance.
"Camilla!" Drei yelled in concern.
"I am alright," the She-Devil replied lowly.
"What is wrong with you?! Are you THAT eager to die?!"
"No...but I am eager to destroy this Punta standing in my way. I will make them pay for harming mi familia with blood!", Camilla state her body radiating a menacing red aura.
"Is that what this is? You want to curb your petty bloodlust?", Drei inquires glaring at her.
"...That may have been the case a few decades ago...but not now...for the first time in many years...I truly have a REASON to fight.", Camilla stated clenched the grass in her aura covered hand as it disintegrate at her touch creating a patch of dead vegitation, "Listen, pequeña(little one), ju must go after Senora. Leave this Punta to me."
Drei narrows her eyes at the incredulous request, "You CAN'T be serious. Do you reali-"
"JES, I know what I am asking but we have no choice! The longer we sit here arguing the further away she's getting! We CANNOT lose her.", Camilla replied before looking to the young Karmaitachi, not with annoyance, but pleading eyes, "Please..."
Drei expression softens a bit hearing the desperation in her voice. The weasel deny that she was right. They were screwed if Komanda Monstra manages to get Mirabelle across the border. She was very conflicted...but knew it had to be done.
"...do you have a plan?", Drei begrudgingly inquires.
Camilla is surprised by the sudden question but answers.
"I have been listening closely for the sound of her reloading...I have an idea where she is now.", Camilla replied turning around but staying low, and looking to the cluster of trees, "I will create a distraction and ju after her. Do no worry about Senor, we will take care of things here."
Drei pauses a moment then clenched her teeth and fists digging her tiny claws to her palms. She emits a low weasel growl.
"Grrr...here!", Drei says reaching into her sleeve and presenting three vials of green liquid to the Elder Devil who takes them, "Drink one if you find yourself in a tough spot. Consider it life insurance."
Camilla curious observes them clenching the vials in her fist in determination, "Gracias."
"For the record, I'm not doing this because you're my friend. You're my clients ward, nothing more. A rather disobedient one at that. If you screw up and harm come to Caleb or Mirabelle and my sisters and I are blamed...I promise...I WILL make you pay for it.", Drei says in a cold tone.
"...I understand... but that only means I have more reason NOT to fail.", Camilla replies looking to her pure conviction, "I know I do not deserve it but I'm begging ju to trust me."
Drei stern gaze softens before sighing relentingly, "...Ok."
...Back to Caleb...
Caleb stared in horror half conscious from the pain as the Ocelomeh as she stood on the bed position over him...her lower half naked to the world. Her tan legs and plump thighs were toned and athletic which and her pussy sported wild and unkempt tan-colored curly hair.
"~You like what you see, Baby?~", Kulah spoke smiling hungrily down at him spreading and spreading open her already wet vagina. The strange scent wafting into his nostrils.
Caleb mouth hung agape unable to answer feeling a torrent of emotions, mainly shock, fear, and disgust. She then lowers herself sitting her meaty rump right on his stomach making her elicit a pained groan. She then starts grind her ass cheeks against Caleb's hardened member. Caleb clenched his teeth trembling at the sensation. He truly hated everything about this yet his body couldn't help feeling pleasure from what she was doing.
"Looks like you're finally ready to go.", Kulah spoke in a predatory starting to raise up.
"No. No...please...you don't have to do this. I don't want this. Please just stop.", Caleb weakly pleaded with her.
Kulah gives a displeased look before reaching down and gripping his member squeezing hard making him groan loudly in pain.
"I don't care what you want.", she growled lowly barring her teeth before lining herself up with his cock, "I'll try to go a little easy on you so you don't break TOO early."
Caleb heart races feeling her pubic touching head of his cock.
"Stop. Stop! NOOOOOO!", he screams out which she ignored as she spread her womanhood open with a wide smile as she prepared to swallow him up. Until-
BOOM
A loud explosion shook the entire house stopping the jungle cat in her tracks.
"The hells' goin' on ou-"
CRASH
She's quickly interrupted when a large figure crashes through the nearby window getting their attention. It quickly stands up removing a tattered curtain covering its body. Caleb and the Ocelomeh gaze in surprise by what they saw.
...While that was happening...
Up in the trees, Vernal could be observing through her scope trying to find them.
"Come on out, I know you're over there. Hurry up and get anxious...make this easier.", she mutters scanning the road before noticing movement in the tall grass. At that moment, a small figures leaps out of the grass. It was the smaller Karmaitachi she tried to hit earlier as it propelled itself upwards gracefully sky-walking at great speed in the vans direction. Vernal tracks her movements lining up for a headshot, "Where do you think you're going?"
As she about the squeeze the trigger, she failed to notice the large red magic seal forming overhead with black and red fireball rippling with red lightning forming in the center. Vernal suddenly feels every nerve in her body scream at her to run. She then hears a crackling sound like the static electricity before she looks up eyes widening in horror.
A torrent of black and red energy is launched downwards upon her. She leaps out of the tree at last millisecond as the energy completely obliterates the tree and impacts the ground in a thunderous explosion of red and black fire and electric sparks.
Vernal skillfully lands before collapsing to her knee wincing in pain and sees the burn of part of her tights exposing a wicked burn wound on her upper thigh.
"Rghh dammit all!", Vernal before looking at the smoldering remains of vegetation in a 10 radius, "Guess it could be worse. What a powerful magic attack. How the hell did know where I was hiding?"
"Ju make more noise than you realize.", came a voice that immediately putting the Dark Elf back on high alert.
On instinct, she quickly reaches for her rifle but gets blindsided by a swift kick to the stomach sending her flying several feet rollinh to the ground. She coughs holding her stomach before looking to her assailant eyes widening seeing a tall Devil woman glaring with vicious red eyes. The Devil woman then picks up Vernal rifle examining it for a moment before smashing the weapon in two with her knee to the Dark Elf surprise.
"Hm, so IS just the bullets I should be wary of. Good.", Camilla spoke as a menacing black and red aura emanates from her body and four red seals appear to her side.
Vernal stands to her feet glaring back at the Elder Devil.
...Back to Caleb...
"L-Lyca?!", Caleb stated profoundly surprised.
"Chei-", she almost happily before eyes widen in shock at the position he was in; her gaze focused on Kulah. Immediately the hair on her body stands on end, tail raises, ears folds back as she bares her fangs emitting a low snarl. The Ocelomeh was still taken aback but instinct rose within her making her bare her fangs extended her claws. Caleb eyes widen never seeing Lyca with THAT look on her face like a wild animal ready tear you limb from limb.
"LYCS W-", Zwei stated threw the window to stop her but it was too late.
"GET AWAY FROM MY CHIEF!", Lyca howled lunging right at Kulah.
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...WR...
Sup Fam. Hope everyone's well. Um...don't really have much to report. School and work are going well as is family life. Chapter took longer than expected since I'm work concurrently on a couple MG love story chapters for October. Be sure to check them out when I put them up. Anyway, hope you enjoyed this chapter. Make sure to leave some comments, fav, and follow. Peace Fam.