Chapter 51: Growing Tension
The girls all stare at him in surprise by his sudden statement sure how to process it.
"You...wanna go after her?! Alone? With a bunch of crazy, murderous liminals guarding her?!", Zwei stated, hoping he'd get the point.
"Are you out of your mind?!", Ein enforced.
"Maybe! I don't know. All I do know is Moon pie is suffering, and nobody's going to do anything, so I say it's up to me now!", Caleb contests, his tone coming off as more desperate than he liked.
"You? Mr. Bizzell, please listen to yourself.", Tyrrian insisted, "You're just afraiduuuûs everything that's happening."
"STOP telling me what I need. I know what I need better than anyone!", Caleb stated in irritation before Ein steps in front of him.
"Not when it involves you trying to get yourself killed!", Ein shouted at him gripping his shoulders holding him in place, "Things are already complicated without YOU pulling any more bullshit out of nowhere!"
"Wha?! I'm not! Goddamit listen to me!..", Caleb retorts in frustration attempting to shove her off.
Camilla then places her hand on Ein's shoulder as the wind weasel looks to the demoness seeing serious glare she had.
"That is enough. Let me handle this.", Camilla in a serious tone before Ein reluctantly releases stepping away as the demoness takes her place. She then slaps Caleb hard across the face.
"Ow! What the hell, Camilla?!"
"Have ju gone loco?! Do ju have a death wish or something?!", Camilla berated shaking him by the shoulders then starts slapping his head hard enough to get the point across, "¡Por el amor de todos esos impíos! Pensar! Nunca he escuchado nada tan tonta( (For the love of all that unholy! Think! Never have I heard anything so foolish!)
"Gah, stop! Camilla!", Caleb pleaded as the demoness continued to slap him as Lyca looks to him in concern.
Suddenly, a the male customer walks in, catching Zwei attention, and notices the scene.
"Uhh, I meant to...get more gas. What uhh...?"
"Pay at the pump buddy! This is official ICEP shit going on here!", Zwei stated pushing him out the entrance closing the door then turning the 'open' sign 'closed'. She then happily waved, "Have a nice day!"
Caleb then teleports away from the demoness, much to Tyrrian shock.
"Enough already!", Caleb stated rubbing the stinging pain away as Camilla begins to calm herself, "Can you just hear me out?"
Camilla lightly painted looking to him then to Ein who shrugs, "Fine."
"I-I'm sorry, did he just teleport?!", Tyrrian stated in disbelief looking around at the others.
"Yeah, he can do that, now stop interrupting.", Zwei chastised to the Raptor Harpy confusion.
"I don't how it happened or how it works, but I think Mirabelle called out to me using her astral link thing. I saw so many things including where Komanda Monstra are hiding her. One of them looked like they were torturing her. They had such a... malicious and cruel energy about them. It was horrible. And Moon pie...she was so scared. So afraid and I'm right here not doing anything. I need to get to her now before it's too late!", Caleb stated clenching his fists resolutely his voice cracking near the end.
The women went silent in thought hearing the passion but also despair in his voice.
"I saw Drei too. It looks like they captured her.", Caleb spoke getting their attention.
"What...What did you say?", Zwei utters eyes widening in shock as if registering what she just heard.
"I saw her and these others liminals. She was tied up and...it looked like... a couple of them were taking turns kicking her to death.", Caleb finished with a horrified look as the others shocked expressions intensified.
Suddenly, a loud cracking sound like wood snapping caught their attention. Caleb and the others were surprised to see Ein standing with her fingers firmly dug into the well-crafted wooden booth making it split a large section off. All the while a vicious aura emanated from her body and her eyes became blood red. Her body trembled with rage and there was a murderous intent in her eyes that unnerved the others, even Camilla was slightly disturbed at the sight.
"What were they?", Zwei inquires with low growl her eyes also blood red, fur standing on end and her fangs bared.
"It...it looked like the Salamander and the Mantis that Camilla sketched.", Caleb answered before taking a deep breath, "But that's what I mean. Drei's in danger now too. And you really want to wait around for help that won't arrive in time?!"
Ein and Zwei snap from their rage fueled malice and look to the man surprise. Both can't deny the semblance of truth behind his words before calming themselves down abit.
"Even if what you say is true, you'd still be putting an untold amount of danger on yourself and, if by some miracle you succeed in getting them out of Komanda Monstra hands, what then? Not to mention to consequences my sister's and I would face.", Ein points out giving him a serious glare.
"I know, and I'm prepared to every piece of the blame if I have to! No! I'm going to! I want to save her and Drei too! I don't care what I have to give up! It's nothing compared to losing her! The same goes for Lyca AND Camilla too! I love them all so much! I WON'T sit around and do nothing when it's within my means to help, even if it's alone. That's my policy goddamit! ", Caleb fervently stated as Lyca and Camilla stare at him in astonishment their hearts warmed by his declaration. Ein, Zwei, and Tyrrian were also taken aback by the humans resolve.
Camilla sighs, "Idiota, and I thought I was stubborn."
Caleb looks to the Elder Devil as she approaches him making him recoil afraid of getting smacked around again. She stands in front of him staring him down.
Camilla then cups his face gazing deep into his eyes as he does the same, "Ju have that same look in your eyes the night I met ju. I truly believe, if the roles were switched, I would not sit around when mi Destino, mi FAMILIA is in danger! Ju will NOT do this alone mi Amor! I will be by your side until the end."
Her statement surprised the others before Lyca jumps in.
"Me too, Chief! I'm coming with you too and we're going to rescue our packmates! Let them TRY and stop us!", Lyca affirms with a determined look.
"Girls...", Caleb utters looking to both of them.
"This is absurd. You're just going to attack the enemy yourselves?!", Tyrrian squawked in disbelief before turning to Zwei and Ein, "You two! You're his bodyguards right?! Tell them, they're being unreasonable!"
"Keh. Hate to break to ya Tweety but they're ALWAYS unreasonable. You just learn to live with it.", Zwei smirk in an 'oh well' gesture going up to the group, "And you're right, I AM his bodyguard so I'll make sure they come back in one piece."
"Zwei?! Guys you CAN'T be serious!", Ein stated incredulously.
"Are you people insane?! You'll be breaking SO many ICEP laws AND throwing yourself into the lions den! And YOU! You're a host, a HUMAN host at that! What if something happens if THEY can't protect you?! You're powerless enough as is!", Tyrrian berated him harshly.
Caleb then teleports in front of the Raptor Harpy surprising her. He concentrates as his pupils glow bright purple and a rippling veil of purple aura covers his body. He raises his hand forming a ball of firelike energy as Tyrrian stares at him speechless.
"Do I look powerless to either of you?", He says in a deep tone locking eyes with her.
"Mr. Bizzell...", Ein says not wanting Tyrrian to know about his powers.
"What...what are you?", Tyrrian uttered in shock not breaking eye contact.
"I'm human just like you said.", Caleb replies before dissipating the energy in his palm and around his body and his eyes return to normal, "One who, just today, fought TWO killer liminals, and did not die."
"It's true! Chief and I fought that evil cat lady together! He's stronger than you think!", Lyca confirms.
"Wait, what?!", Ein stated in disbelief, "But I heard from Agent Sterling that Zwei and Tyrrian fought and defeated them."
Caleb and the girls go silent a moment as Ein looks between them.
"Well, the truth is...both assassins were killed by his homestays.", Tyrrian admitted much to Ein's shock.
"What?!", Ein called in disbelief.
"It is true. I destroyed that worthless punta.", Camilla arms folded disgusted at having to remember the Dark Elf.
"And Lycs...killed the Ocelomeh.", Zwei added as the She-wolf looks away.
"Are you both fucking insane? You're both students who killed criminals we're meant to arrest. You can't just take the law into your own hands! You realize you both can be arrested for this right?", Ein chastised the two liminals look to her in shock and anger(mostly on Camilla part).
"Hey, listen here! I'd be dead if it weren't for them! Not just that, but violently sexually assaulted and then killed! They did what they needed to!", Caleb defended.
"He's right, sis.", Zwei butts in.
"You...you both KNEW and lied about it to Sterling and the others?!", Ein angrily stated glaring at Zwei then turns to Tyrrian grabbing her by the collar yanking her close, "And you're one to talk about 'breaking ICEP laws'. Is endangering the lives of two students not grounds for termination?"
"I'm aware of that! And it's because of Ms. Sartana that I am still alive and my comrades are avenged! That's why they CAN'T do this! She and the others can't throw away their lives so easily! I'm sure they'll realize it's better they ICEP do it's job. If that makes me a hypocrite, so be it!", Tyrrian stated her wings trembling and her eyes quivering.
"Then I guess you're a hypocrite. You can phrase it however you want but it all boils down to you not wanting to be burdened with survivor's guilt.", Ein coldly says to the Raptor Harpy surprise shoving her off making her stumble back, "Look at them. Do they look like you can convince them otherwise?"
Tyrrian focuses on Caleb and the two liminals girls; all of them looked ready to do what they needed to save their friend. The Raptor Harpy goes silent in slight shame as Ein turns to Caleb.
"Alright, what's your plan?"
Caleb looks to her surprised, "What? You're coming too?"
"Hahh, Zwei is right for once We ARE contracted to protect you, even from your own stupidity. I just wish you'd make our job easier sometimes., Ein says stepping up to join the group to Tyrrian surprise, "Despite that, you show me everyday... especially now... you're somebody worth protecting."
"Ein..."
"Besides, our leeway was revoked the second two students killed the assassins and the agents in charge gave a false report. May as well add vigilantism to the list." , Ein shrugs in a forced upbeat tone.
"You've run out of fucks to give, huh?", Zwei says in a slightly concerned tone.
"Bankrupt!", Ein stated with mock enthusiasm before looking to Caleb seriously, "Now, do you have a plan for rescuing her? Better question: Do you even know HOW you're going to leave the state with NO transportation and the major highways now blocked off?! And on top of that, with FOUR liminals in tow?!"
"I...", Caleb started then realizes he hadn't thought that far ahead.
Ein sighs shaking her head, "I figured as much."
"Why don't we just fly again?", Lyca suggests as the others turn their attention to her
"Eh?"
"Camilla used her powers to make Chief and me fly here. Why not use them to get us to where Mira is? Plus, you and Zwei can already fly.", Lyca explained.
Caleb eyes widen then looks Camilla, "Do you think you could?"
Camilla glances away feeling uncertain then looks back seeing the hopeful expression in her lover's eyes. She nods giving him a confident grin, "Jes, I believe I can Senor!"
Caleb smiles at her clasping her hands to his making her blush, "Thank you!"
"Wait! Waitwaitwait! Even if we do SOMEHOW manage to fly ourselves over to her location without being spotted by airborne MON patrol agents, we still don't have a set path to her location!", Ein stated.
"It's fine. I told you already I can feel where I need to go. I can guide you to her location. Plus...", Caleb reaches in his pocket and pulls out the gas clerks phone, "I can use the GPS to map out the location."
Ein takes the phone noticing a image of an unknown woman, "Who's phone is this?"
"The punta behind the counter.", Camilla gestured with her thumb to the woman still in a hypnotic trance.
"Wait! Has she been-?! Hang on.", Ein stated in shock that strange overhead their entire conversation then goes to the counter surprised to see the human woman staring slack jawed at her with graffiti on her forehead, "Wha?! What's wrong her?! Why is "cunt" written on her forehead?!"
"Accurate description of her character.", Camilla waved off.
"Camilla!"
"Relax. The spell wears off in another half hour. We will be gone by then.", Camilla replies dismissively much to Ein's chagrin.
"To be fair, we asked to politely use her phone and she called me an 'animal' and all this other derogatory shit.", Zwei points out.
Ein gives a surprised and conflicted looked the emits an annoyed growl, "Rhaa! Whatever! I can't deal with that."
Caleb then steps up to her, "I truly appreciate you, you know. We can't do this without you even if it means embracing the worst case scenario. I promise once already that I'll take full responsibility for whatever happens. Not to say we won't succeed, I know we will. We have to."
Ein stares at him in thought, "Haaa...I know you will. I can see it in your eyes. Hahhh... it'ss uncanny how similar you are."
"Huh?"
"Nevermind. If we do this, we need to get a few things straight with this 'rescue plan' of ours! Got a problem with that?!"
"N-No?", Caleb answered as the others go silent a moment listening.
...Back to Komanda Monstra...
"Rhagh! *Smack*", Ember delivering another solid punch to the Karmaitachi who now lay with her hands and legs still bound in what's left of the desk. Her face and jaw red and badly swollen bleeding wounds in different spots and her clothes were damaged showing bruises all around her body. Dry blood covered the floor along with her teeth to the annoyance of the Salamander who had to clean it up later.
Fantina could be seen bound to chair with a towel tied to her mouth like a gag and an Enslavement Collar clamped to her neck. Her scythe was propped atop a large rack on the wall way out of reach for her.
" *cough cough* Ack...*spit* ahh yep...there goes bicuspid number 4", Drei weakly spoke before spitting out her tooth into a small pile. A new one begins growing in her mouth, "and another is already coming in."
"EEraghh! Are you a weasel or a shark?! But forget about that! How are you STILL alive let alone conscious?!.", Ember stated in frustration as Hush could be seen visibly panting equally agitated.
"What...part of...'broken healing factor'...didn't you understand?", Drei uttered between labored breaths blood spewing from her mouth as the swelling slowly receded along with her bruises , "My body goes into double overtime...ahh the more physical trauma...I receive...in short periods. In other words...I suffer way longer. Catch 22 really."
"You're gonna catch FIRE in a minute when I incinerate you!", the Salamanders threatens as her right reptilian clawed hand it lit ablaze drifting dangerously close to Drei's face. Suddenly, Ranka lays a firm paw on Embers shoulder.
"That's enough, Ember! There's no point to continuing with her any further. Save your energy."
Ember glares back at the Karmaitachi before reluctantly dispelling the flames from her claws. Fantina glances away not wishing to watch the grotesque sight.
"It THAT'S true then let's finish her and be throw her out! Plus, her blood is staining the Ralph Lauren!", Ember protested pointing in irritation at the area rug, "Why won't you let us kill her already?"
Ranka pauses in thought a moment unsure of the answer herself. Nikami gives her an inquisitive look
"I just-"
*SLAM*
A loud slam catches the attention of their and they see Satella storming into room with and angry scowl.
"Satella? What's wrong? Did something happen with the Nightmare?", Ember stated in a worried tone approaching the vampire as Fantina focuses on them.
"You could say that.", Satella bitterly spoke as Hush goes up to her with a worried expression.
"D-Did the 'imprinting' not work on her?", Nikami inquires much to Fantina's shock.
'Imprinting?! Don't tell me, are they...', Fantina thought you herself.
"No, it did not. She... already has a master. I saw him! He's still alive!", Satella stated clenching her fists much to the shock of the others including Drei.
"You...you saw him? How?", Ember inquires
"It must have been some kind of ability. A sort of unknown link she shares with that human that even the collars cannot suppress.",
"Like love?!', Drei stated as the others look to her like she said something incredibly dumb, "Sorry, it's the concussion talking."
"Ember glares as realization and anger fills her senses, "Wait, if he is alive then that means...what that Karmaitachi bitch said about Madoka and the others is true."
"It vould appear so.", Satella answers as Hush's expression intensified clenching her fists tightly at the knowledge of losing three members of what she considers a family. Her nails draw blood from her palms as it trickle through her fingers.
Ranka and Nikami eyes widen at the statement both deep down hoping that they might have made it.
"So...what now?", Ranka inquires
"I cannot imprint on the Nightmare so long as she has a link with that human. We must find and kill him!", Satella stated.
"But how do we even find him? He could be in ICEP and police custody by now, in Alabama no less.", Ember point out.
"Ve will not have to go far. Vhen I was connected with the Nightmare psyche I could not only see an image of the human but I could feel his attachment towards her. I have on good accord he will come to us soon enough.", Satella advises.
Ember and the others were skeptical but chose to put their trust in her.
"Well...if you're positive that is the case then I'll do what is necessary.", Ranka affirms.
"Agreed.", Ember says clenching her fist to her chest as Hush respectfully bows to Satella.
"Excellent.", Satella says in a pleased tone.
"Now then, what do we do about them?", Ember inquires looking to the Karmaitachi and Baphomet.
"I still have use for the Baphomet. As I said before, do vhat you will with the Karmaitachi. Perhaps give her to Hush as a punching bag.", Satella suggests as Hush glares at the Karmaitachi.
"I'm guessing body pillow is off the table then?", Drei comments.
"Heh, I like that idea.", Ember says standing over Drei reaching down and picking her up by the shirt collar, "Frankly, I'm getting sick of her mouth. Hope you're ready for a world of agony you little shit."
"You know, either I might have a concussion or I think I'm developing Stockholm syndrome...sexy.", Drei says tilting her head innocently fluttering her eyes much to the disgust of the Salamander who roughly tosses her to the floor in front of Fantina, "Ow. Getting a bit sloppy with foreplay now are w-OOMP!"
Drei was cut off feeling the Salamander foot stomp against her face.
"SHUT. UP.", Ember roars at the Karmaitachi with smoke billowing from her clenched teeth as her foot heats up threatening to seer Drei's face off.
Fantina watches the sight with a cold and ponderous gaze. She then notices Satella approaching her and standing over her.
"Now then, I have a small task for you little one.", The Vampire spoke grabbing the Baphomet horns forcing her to look her in the eye. Fantina grits her teeth glaring back in disdain.
... Elsewhere...
On the interstate, traffic was backed up with a seemingly endless line of vehicles. State troopers coming up and down to ensure any impatient drivers don't cause any further travel delays. However, hundreds of feet above the sky was a whole different story.
Caleb, Camilla, and Lyca entire bodies radiated aura seemingly gliding through the air while the Zyklons tailed along beside them sky walking using the force from generating whirlwinds at their feet. The Demoness' wings were spread behind them both and tightly held Caleb and Lyca's arms in each hand making sure they within range of her spell.
'Don't look down don't look down don't look down.', Caleb repeated in his head choose to focus on the what's ahead of him.
..Earlier...
"You realize this is absolutely INSANE right?!", Tyrrian stated to the group as they stood outside.
"Of course it is, we are going right into enemy territory. We are doing it to SAVE one of our familia since no one else can or will!", Camilla says to Raptor Harper with a stern glare with a large green magic seal in front of her.
"Ideally, I'd prefer a much dangerous and unconventional plan of action but as you can see HE nor these are going to listen. Therefore, it's now our responsibility to protect them from themselves!", Ein replies stretching her arms as Zwei limbers up beside her as well they then take in a few deep breath.
"W-What are two even doing?", Tyrrian asks watching the two Karmaitachi stretching and deep breathing.
"Hey, if we're going long distances it's best our bodies are limbers and oxygen is plentiful enough to allow our ki flow more easily.", Zwei point out raising her index finger creating tiny cyclone.
"Plus, never know where the next enemy attack will come from best be ready for anything.", Ein says bending her spine backwards until her whole upper section reaches her rear. Weasel spine.
"Senor. Senorita Lyca. Are ju both ready?"
"Yeah, give it to me.", Caleb replies bracing himself.
"Me too Cami!", Lyca stated.
The Elder Devil points the magic seal and a stream of blue energy starts swirling around them covering their entire bodies. They begin to levitate off the a couple feet off ground once again astonished by the sensation.
"Haha! I don't think I'll ever get tired of this feeling.", Lyca spoke twirling her body in place and giggling.
"That makes two of us.", Caleb remarks concentrating on remaining upright.
Camilla steps up to them both taking them both by the hand, "Ju both stay close to me. The spell is most effective at close range."
"Alright, you're the expert.", Caleb replies understandingly with trusting eyes.
Camilla's cheeks flush a bit as a small grin crosses her lip, "Gracias"
"It doesn't matter how much of an expert she is if we're caught. For this to even have a remote chance to succeed we need to follow the plan exactly!", Ein stated firmly as they look to her nodding understandingly, "Are you all ready?"
"Yes! Let's go get Mira!", Lyca shouted raising her fist high.
HOLD IT! ALL OF YOU!" Tyrrian shouted, spreading her wings in front of them, not to intimidate, but to obstruct, "I CANNOT, as an agent, sit by and let you do as you please! I can't allow you to throw yourselves in mortal danger! I ask you again to reconsider either that or..."
"Or...what?" Camilla spoke coldly, glaring at her.
"I'll...be forced to arrest you all! If that's what it takes!" Tyrrian stated challengingly.
The last part caused the group to glance at each other.
"Oh please. Don't give me that!" Ein stated, unconvinced, going up to the unimpressed Harpy, looking her right in the eye, "If you really had any true intent to stop us you would've done it by now even if it IS five to one. It's about just wanting to say yourself that you at least 'tried' to stop us! Anything to ease the conscience if something does happen right?"
Tyrrian's eyes widened at the accusation and opened her mouth to refute but found it difficult to find a counter-argument, "T- that's... that's not..."
"Oh? Are you going to say I'm wrong? Go ahead, tell me you're just aren't thinking of the repercussion of our actions affecting you," Ein contests.
The Raptor Harpy glowered in frustration and dropped her gaze downwards, realizing she couldn't deny it
Ein folded her arms and huffed, "Thought so."
"Oof, sis, little harsh there, don't you think?" Zwei said.
"Zwei, my patience is already growing thinner by the minute. I don't have time for half-truths or hollow threats," Ein glared at her then to the Harpy, still upset at both of them.
"It is not like it would have made much difference," Camilla jumped, in speaking in a serious tone while looking at Tyrrian, "Guilty conscience or not, she cannot stop us. Our minds are made up."
Tyrrian wanted to say something to change their mind but it came up empty. It was then she decided on another alternative.
"Then...let me join you!" Tyrrian fervently said, placing her wing over her chest to the shock of the others, "You will need any help you can get, especially in the state things are in now. Not only that...these people have to pay. It's liminals like Komanda Monstra that make some think it's better our races stayed in the shadows. I can't turn my back when such vile fiends continue to run free!"
Caleb gave her a sympathetic look, sensing she was truly concerned for them.
"Are you serious?! First you stop us, NOW you wanna join us? Does the phrase 'pick a lane' meaning anything in your culture?" Ein snapped in annoyance.
"Or in her case, a runway?" Zwei said, raising an eyebrow as Ein gave her a look, "What's with the look?"
"Please. I wish to be of assistance...even if it means disobeying direct orders from my superiors," Tyrrian spoke as the others looked to each other.
"Should we let her join us? Chief?" Lyca inquired.
"Huh? You're asking me?"
"Well yeah, you are the one leading to charge so the speak. It's your call," Zwei said as the others watched the young man.
Caleb looked to Tyrrian, who stared at him in anticipation. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath and collecting his thoughts. He let go of Camilla's hand, breaking the mana chain as it disappeared from his body.
"...No. You can't come with us," Caleb replied as Tyrrian gave a despondent look before stepping up to the Harpy, "I don't want to involve anyone else in this. I know you're just concerned for us, but...I can't. That doesn't mean I'm not grateful for your help, you saved Camilla after all."
Tyrrian gazed thoughtfully downwards in disappointment.
"But there is one thing you can do. Something pretty important actually."
"W-What would that be?" the Raptor Harpy inquired curiously.
"Go back to agent Sterling, tell him, in private, everything that happened including the parts with Camilla and Lyca and let him know what we're doing. If anyone asks, you did EVERYTHING in your power to stop us. That's the story. Got it?" Caleb stated as Tyrrian and the others looked to him incredulously, wondering what he could be thinking.
"I...I understand but...I don't understand," Tyrrian frowned.
"Trust me, it's for the best."
"Is it, though?!" Zwei questioned loudly.
"Yes," Caleb replied then gazed at Tyrrian seriously, "Tell it exactly like that. OK?"
"OK. I just...hope you know what you're doing," Tyrrian said.
"You and me both!" Ein stated in discontent.
"We'll be back. So please, just handle things here," Caleb said as the Harpy looked him in the eyes, seeing the resolve in them.
"I will. So...just come back...all of you," Tyrrian pleaded.
Caleb nodded to her and stepped back, taking Camilla's hand as the aura started cover his body once more. He turned to the Elder Devil, Lyca, and the Zyklons. All nodded to him resolutely. The two Zyklons readied themselves as wind swirled around their feet, lifting them off the ground.
"Ready, Señor?" Camilla said determinedly, spreading her wings.
"Yeah," Caleb took a deep breath, steeling his nerves for what was to come, "BLACK AIR FORCE ENERGY!"
He rocketed upward into the sky before zooming off with the others at his side as Tyrrian watched them from below. To her right, she noticed a man filling up his at the pump, staring dumbfounded at the sky, oblivious to the fuel spilling through the now full tank.
"Uhhh..." Tyrrian wasn't sure how to explain that whole scene.
"WHO DID THIS TO MY HEAD?!" screamed the irate voice of the gas station lady, now out of her trance, making them both jump slightly.
"Gotta go," the Harpy said, flapping her wings and launching herself in the air, leaving the man utterly bewildered.
...Now...
"Are ju sure this is the right way, Señor?" Camilla inquired, noticing the terrain below.
"Yeah, I can feel it. We're on the right track," Caleb assured.
"Yeesh, I'd hate to be those people right now," Zwei grimaced, looking down at the very long line of transport truck and other vehicles blowing their horns.
"We're not in any better of a position, Zwei," Ein reminded, sounding unamused, then looked to Caleb, "You realize this is absolutely insane right?"
"Maybe that doesn't mean I can't give it a shot," Caleb replied, feeling the wind rushing against his face.
"Don't you worry about shooting any shots, you hear me? Simply follow the plan and we may make it out alive," Ein replied firmly, "You just used this new Nightmare tracking ability of yours to locate where they're hiding Ms. Marequine. Then Zwei and myself will alert the closes MON branch about the situation and hopefully gain more back up. Then we work on a plan to free her and arrest the assassins if we can."
"Yeah and when she's free, we remove the collar and have Mira and Caleb make physical contact and teleport all of us back home using their power. Seems simple enough," Lyca added.
"On paper at least. I have on good accord they won't give her up so easy... especially THAT woman," Caleb paled, remembering the sensation of malice he felt upon seeing that vampire.
"That only mean WE must push harder if we are to free her," Camilla assured gently, gripping him tighter.
"Just...stick with the plan. No reckless decisions! No drawing attention! No unnecessary battles! Understood? I'm anxious enough with you being this high up with us!"
"Y-Yes ma'am," Caleb replied, sensing a relatable amount of frustration in Ein's tone.
"Heh, you sure humbled yourself quickly," Zwei commented with a smirk, sky hopping above Caleb, "Speaking of which, you and the others do seem to be doing OK. Especially you, boss, I read humans usually get sick at altitudes like this. You're holding well for a guy at five thousand feet. "
"DO NOT give the numbers, please! I'm trying NOT to think about how high up I am right now. I'm focusing on Mirabelle's energy or whatever the fuck it is right now," Caleb replied, keeping his gaze focused ahead but involuntarily squeezed Camilla.
"There is really no need for concern. I crafted this spell specifically to negate the nasty affects of flying at great heights. Ju would be surprised how tenacious some Angels can be," Camilla answered, hoping to ease her partner's concerns a bit.
"Ha, so you use your powers to say 'no sir' to gravity. All we've got are flexible bones and breathing techniques to help us acclimate faster," Zwei replied cheekily.
"Whatever the case, you can't deny this amazing view! I never thought I'd ever do something like this before!" Lyca gazed down in wonder, seeing the treetops and passing over a large river, "I really want Mira to experience things like this too. That's why we absolutely can't fail! We're gonna get her back, right Chief?!"
Caleb noticed the She-wolf looking to him with a confident gaze. He started to feel a little less nervous and replied, "Yeah! We are, Fuzzy!"
He then felt a jolt go through him and looked off in the distance skeptically.
"There! Go right!" Caleb ordered as Camilla and the others followed his direction.
... Elsewhere...
Seated in a large red leather chair in a old-fashioned British inspired library with the only light being the windows behind the satin red curtain was an old woman in black pants, shirt, and leather jacket with rose pendant on the collar listening to Shostakovich (Waltz No.2) on her vintage record. She grabbed a large cigar from a case and a short red slime girl appeared next her with a struck match, lighting it. The woman exhaled a billow of smoke, relaxing to the sound as the red slime turned, sensing a nearby presence. Suddenly, a knock could be heard at her door.
"Who' is there?" she inquires in a displeased Russian accent.
"It's me! I'm back."
"Ah... it's open," the woman replied.
The door opened and in stepped another woman with pale grey skin, black shoulder-length hair, pointed ears, pointy teeth, and a single large ruby red eye in the center of her face. She had a large short, bushy tail with eight tentacle-like appendages ending with smaller ruby red eyes. These tentacles along with her arms and legs were coated up to her joints in strange black oily substance, called Gazer Gel, that was slightly sticky to the touch. It had no odor and tasted a bit salty. She wore minimal clothes, sticking to a red Mario shirt and black skin tight shorts. She had a slender frame, perky B-cup breasts, slender sexy legs connected to wide curvaceous hips and plump, firm bubble butt. A Gazer.
"Ooh, I love the new layout of office, Rosy. Is that a Ralph Lauren I see? Nice," the Gazer said, nodding in approval then looked to the slime girl, "Hey there, Krasni. You're standing there particularly menacingly today."
The red slime, named Krasni, nodded plainly, silently staring with green pupilless eyes.
"I am in no mood for pleasantries, Acula. What do you have to report?" Mama Rosé chastised, holding back he annoyance.
"Right, right, so I've been observing Komanda Monstra for the last two weeks like you asked..."
"And?"
"And you were right. They are definitely planning something. Bustedddd!" Acula sing-songed with a toothy grin, "From what I could gather, they intend to have that vampire chick imprint on that Nightmare for whatever reason using the enslavement collars. That's all I could get without being caught. Trust me, they have come close. They're pretty good."
"Not quite good enough. Tch, I knew I was right not to trust them. They already betrayed me once," Mama Rosé spoke in discontent, clenching her fist as she puffed out a billow of smoke. Another red slime girl formed up behind her, going to a nearby ice bucket and getting a glass.
"And that's typically one too many," Acula replied before a thought struck her.
"What of Nikolai's goat friend? She was supposed to have reported to me by now," the old woman inquired as the slime girl handed her a glass of bourbon with two rocks, her preference, to settle her nerves. She politely thanked her.
Suddenly, the phone on her desk started ringing. She squinted, trying to read the caller ID before the slime girl whispered in her ear. It was an unknown number but Mama Rosé knew there were only a handful of people that had her personal number. She picks it up.
"Da [Yes]," she answered, putting it on speaker.
'Mama Rosé... it's Fantina," came the voice of the Baphomet on the other end as Rosé looked to Acula.
"Speak of the devil...or pedo goat," Acula smirked.
'I'm calling to report that the Nightmare is secured and... ready to pick up," Fantina spoke.
"Excellent. I will send my associates in the area to their location and you can open them a portal."
'Actually... that won't be necessary.'
Mama Rosé raised an eyebrow, "And why is that?"
'The Nightmare may be restrained with an enslavement collar now but apparently it can still use a fraction of its power. It was...enough to almost incapacitate the leader of Komanda Monstra. So they want to it you themselves,' Fantina informed, giving the partial truth, 'It would be best for your protection.'
"Hmm, for them to be that considerate, it must be quite powerful indeed. I may decide to keep it after all instead of selling it. I'm sure they'd be very useful to me... especially considering the help I currently have," Rosé spoke, trying to rouse them up as Acula rolled her single large eye with a shrug.
'Yes. That's why we can't afford any slip ups. ICEP is already on our ass, we even had trouble with MON agents earlier. A few of Komanda Monstra members are already dead.'
"That is no concern of mine. If they were killed so easily, then obviously I overestimated their capabilities," Rosé calmly responded before taking a more venomous tone, "Another thing...do not talk to me about slip ups. My grandson is dead, Nikolai is in a coma, our enchanted weapon and enslavement collar are critically low since our supplier is dead, and our drug and trade route is in complete disarray. All because of FUCKING slip ups. Half of which on yours and Nikolai's part."
'...I-I'm well aware of that and I accept that responsibility. I'm only thinking of what's best for the organization and mitigate your losses. Besides, I still have my debt to pay. I literally can't afford any more slip ups either. Please allow me to make it up to you. Please,' Fantina replied.
Rose' gave an inquisitive stare at the phone, as if Fantina could sense it if she stared hard enough.
"She does have a point. We still don't know what the Nightmare can really do," Acula shrugged.
"...Fine. You just make sure everything is secure on your end before I send them anywherel," Mama Rosé replied in a serious tone.
'Understood,' Fantina respectfully answered.
Mama Rosé hung up the phone as Acula levitated down beside the old woman, next to her head.
"That was a pretty random request. Why those specifically?"
"I do not know but if what you say is correct, then Satella and her team are definitely plotting against me and mi semiya [my family]. That is why I'm sending them both in with as much protection as possible."
"Wait, you're actually going through with it?!. Don't tell me you actually believe that goat midget!" Acula gaped.
"Of course not! However, we cannot lose this chance to acquire such a rare creature. We'll play their game but it is we that will emerge victorious," Mama Rosé clarified, swirling a glass of bourbon, making the ice jingle, "That vampire may be greedy but she isn't stupid. I would prefer not to back her into a corner until I've eliminated any chance she'll strike back."
"Heh, if I didn't know any better I'd say you were afraid of that vampire bimbo," Acula smirked as Krasni glared at her, body wobbling in anger before Mama Rosé places a hand on her head.
"I do not fear her...I am AWARE of her. The same goes for every one of your kind and the destructive power you wield when you need to," Mama Rosé said, petting the slime girl, "I am but a seventy-five-year-old human woman...but I will fight to maintain the empire my father built and passed to me before I too pass the torch."
Krasni leant against the woman's hand, lightly vibrating and making low noises, humming almost like a cat purr.
"Please, Rosy, the way you're carrying, on you'll outlive us all," Acula snarkily replied, levitating upside down, "Oh, what about Fantina? You think she's actually in league with them too? You think you'll teach all of them a lesson just like with those lesbian rabbits. Raynell and the others really had fun with that little art project."
"I do not trust her but, like Satella, she is not stupid. She knows where she stands with me."
"Yeah, you're right. She wracked up quite the debt supporting her little legion of goat and witch lolis. Speaking of, we did get a couple new pedo recruits for that pedo paradise club of hers," Acula said with a toothy grin.
"Blya radi [For fuck's sake], I hope you sent them away from here," Mama Rosé grimaced in disgust.
"Yeah, sent them to her 'secret' spot."
"Honestly, what was Nikolai drinking when he brought her here? My organization is not a safe haven for trash like them."
"It actually wouldn't bother me as much if they didn't look like the troglodytes they are. Ever once in a while we'll get decent-looking ones though but, you know, pedos gonna pedo," Acula sighed, shaking her head.
"Enough. Call for my sons here," Mama Rosé said, wishing to drop the conversation, "And continue to keep an eye on Komanda Monstra and their leader."
"Can do. You know me...I got eyes for days. Kay, later," the Gazer said, levitating over to the door and exiting the room. A wide grin spread across her face as she softly snickered.
The mafia boss drunk down her glass of bourbon and slamming it down. The red slime girl gave her a concerned look, and she instinctively guessed what the goo girl was thinking.
"Do not worry malen'kiy [little one], I am not going anywhere. Not yet," she calmly reassured, stroking the slime girl, gaving her a small content grin, "I still have more slip ups to prevent."
...meanwhile back at Komanda Monstra...
"Please... allow me to make it up to you. Please," Fantina pleaded into her cellphone, held in place by Hush while Satella stood behind her with her claws dug precariously into the Baphomet's forehead, threatening to pierce her frontal lobe.
'Fine, I'll inform moi deti [my children] of the circumstances. You just make sure everything is secure on your end before I send them anywhere,' Mama Rosé spoke on the other end as Ranka, Ember, and the others leaned in while listening eagerly.
"Understood," Fantina spoke before the phone audibly hung up. The vampiresss removes her claws from the Baphomet's forehead as blood streamed down her face, "Ergh!
"Wow, that actually went better than expected," Nikami acknowledged.
"Even more reason to be suspicious," Ranka pointed out, folding her arms.
"Not only that, can you BELIEVE what she said about Madonna and the others?! 'Overstimated their abilities'. That ugly old hag. I could just rip her apart and reduce her parts to ash!" Ember snarled with clenched fists as flames billowed out from her tail and claws.
"Patience! Everything will fall in to place soon. I can feel it," Satella ordered, making the salamander withdraw and take a deep breath.
"Alright, Satella," Ember said then looked to Fantina, "And what was that about debt? You owe shit to Mama Rosé?!"
"That's none of your damn business," Fantina coldly spoke.
"Owing that woman any kind of debt to her is basically slavery. A death sentence if you can't pay it back," Ranka pointed out.
"Heh, I just thought you worked for her by choice. But it turns out you really slave. Guess that collar suits you more than I thought," Ember taunted, tapping her claw against the collar.
"Don't you call me that. You don't know a fucking thing about me! YOU'RE the real slaves here, you fucks!" Fantina yelled furiously before spitting in the Salamander's face.
Ember scowled as the saliva vaporized, then uppercut the Baphomet hard in the face, sending her flying up several feet before crashing down, shattering the chair.
"Sorry, I just couldn't hold that one back," Ember apologised to Satella.
"I will allow it. That one was deserved," Satella replied before her phone started to vibrate. She glanced at it and saw who it was then put it away, walking pass Ember.
"Where are you going?" the Salamander inquired curiously.
"I will be down in my chamber, do not disturb me. Keep an eye on the Nightmare. Do what you want with those two but especially keep the Baphomet from going anywhere. She knows too much," the vampire said, looking to the injured Baphomet and Karmaitachi before descending down into the basement.
Drei, who had been lying on the floor listening the whole time, looked over at the Baphomet. She was whimpering as blood trickled from her nose and forehead. Drei also could've sworn she heard a sob from the goat girl.
"Can do," Ember sighed, going picking Fantina up by the horn as she squirmed in her grasp.
Hush then picked Drei up by the collar, face to face with the Karmaitachi and glaring hatefully.
"Aww, looks like someone can't wait to enjoy their new plaything," Ember smirked as the mantis simply nodded, "Alright, you have fun, sweety."
Drei gagged as she was dragged along by the collar, seeing the Jinko and Inari going to check on Mirabelle. She looked at her slightly curled up tail at a vial of yellow liquid she snagged while they were distracted by the Baphomet. She'd had also been discretely cutting her arm restraints a little with a sharp glass shard.
Down in the basement, Satella stood in utter darkness with the only light source being her phone.
"Vhat is the situation?" she inquired? speaking over the phone.
'Welp, she's definitely suspicious of you guys,' came the voice of Acula on the other end, 'She's having me send her boys and their squads after you guys. Heads up, they'll likely be packing some enchanted heat."
"Good to know. It would appear she is getting impatient," Satella replied in a satisfied tone.
'Guess that's the thing with old age but you should know about that since you're like FIVE times her age,' Acula laughed.
"I advise you to hold that tongue before I rip it out next time we cross paths. I do not need a second Heather," Satella threatened.
'Please, if that were true you would have done it a week ago when you first caught me snooping around. But ya didn't. I wonder why. Could it have been love at first sight?' Acula slyly spoke.
"I saw you had skill and I intended to use it," Satella said.
'You just remember our little arrangement and I'll be as useful as you need, blood mama. And like we agreed, it's just between us.'
"Of course."
'Heh, funny, never took a vampires like you for the subservient type. Figured you try to start your own organization with that crew of yours.'
"Vhy toil from the bottom to build an empire, vhen I can just take one from someone else?", Satella replies
'Hehe, I guess that's true. And don't worry, I'll keep the old biddy happy enough to not send the REALLY big guns after ya.'
"Good. The last thing I need are those three getting involved," Satella replied, slightly grimacing at the thought.
'Yeah, Astarte's been in a foul mood lately since her product's not selling as much as it used to," Acula said before switching to more chipper tone, 'Kay-bye!'
The phone hung up and Satella was left to ponder to herself.
... Meanwhile...
Almost two hours had passed since Caleb and the girls crossed the state borders guided by his directions. They were now in the town of Trenton, Georgia, according to the map on Ein's phone and could be seen flying above, making sure to stay just high enough to not draw attention.
"We're getting close! I can feel it!" Caleb called.
"Good! Let us know when you spot their hideout!" Ein replied before checking something on her phone.
"Must be pretty outta the way since the deeper we go, the lower the property value seems to get," Zwei pointed to the bad-looking neighborhood below.
"They're assassins, Zwei, not real estate investors," Ein said, giving a side eye to her sister.
"Uh, yeah! The killers of the housing market," Zwei said.
"I really wish I could tune you out," Ein groaned.
Caleb then turned to Camilla and noticed the tiredness in her expression.
"Camilla?" he spoke.
"Y-Yes, Señor?"
"You OK? You look-"
"I am fine! Ju just stay focused, Señor!" Camilla said assuringly and looked forward, trying to hide the strain in her expression, but he noticed.
"Camilla, y-"
Caleb stopped mid-sentence, feeling a jolt go through his senses as his pupils glowed with a purple light. Camilla looked to him curiously.
"Señor?"
He ignored her but scanned ahead before his eyes locked onto a single building ahead.
"There!" Caleb exclaimed, getting everyone's attention and pointing ahead to a delapidated white building, "That's definitely where they got her at."
The girls focused an intense glare at the building, getting their game faces on. The got closer until they were positioned right above the hideout of the assassins. Caleb, Camilla and Lyca were glaring intensely down at the building with every cell in Caleb's body screaming for him to rush in save her.
"Alright. We've located Ms. Marequine. Now we proceed with the rest of the plan. Follow me, all of you!" Ein ordered, sky hopping forward, much to the others' confusion before following behind her.
"Wait! Where are we going?! Moon pie is RIGHT down there!" Caleb stated.
"Going through with the plan that WE agreed on! Now come on!" Ein demanded as they reluctantly obeyed, following her. She could be seen typing on her phone.
They were oblivious to the small, round, black and red object that appeared from the building, beginning to tail them.
The group ended up a couple miles away from the hideout and were now at a two-story motel building. They descend downwards into the mostly vacant parking lot save for three vehicles.
"What we doing here? Ein?" Lyca inquired, confused but Ein ignored her and the others proceeding to rush inside the building. They turned to Zwei, who shrugged unsure of what she was doing either. Ein returned eight minutes later with a room key, presenting it to Caleb.
"You three will be staying here for the time being. You're in room a hundred and seventeen," Ein said.
"You gotta be kidding!" Caleb stated in disbelief
"No, I'm NOT kidding. It's safer for you guys here," Ein retorted then looked around at the shoddy condition of the establishment, "Relatively speaking!"
"How did you even find this place and get a room so fast?" Caleb inquired in disbelief.
"I booked it online as an emergency request for MON use," Ein replied, showing her phone with the ICEP icon on the Choice Hotel receipts.
"You can do that?"
"You'd be surprised what we have access to," Zwei replied, giving him a smirk to his confusion.
"Anyway, like we PLANNED, you three are staying out of the conflict and we are calling in backup to assist us in freeing Ms. Marequine and Drei. Once secured, we'll bring her here and teleport us all back home," Ein informed.
"And what they do not arrive in time?!", Camilla contested, "Señora is right inside and we have the element of surprise. We must strike now while their guard is down!"
"And alert them of our presence and put them on the defensive. You really think after all the trouble they went through to capture Marequine, they won't fight with all they've got to keep her," Ein stated then pointed to Caleb, "Don't forget they wanted him dead and they WILL try again!"
Caleb wanted to retort but bit his tongue, realizing that she was telling the truth.
"Then at least let assist in finding WHERE in that hideout they are keeping her!" Camilla insisted, creating a purple magic seal in front of her, "I cannot just...sit...by..."
Camilla trailed off as her body suddenly felt like it was filled with lead and her vision became unfocused. The magic seal flickered away as her legs wobbled before falling over.
"Whoa!" Caleb teleported, catching the Elder Devil before she hit the ground. The others quickly gathered around in concern.
"Cami?!"
"Ms. Sartana!"
Lyca and Ein knelt beside her with worry spread across their faces. The Elder Devil struggled to keep her eyes open.
"Camilla! Hey, stay with me! What's wrong?! Camilla!", Caleb asked frantically, starting to panic.
"Used...to much...mana..." the Elder Devil weakly spoke before falling unconscious.
Ein frowned, then closed her eyes, raising up, "Get her inside. Now."
Caleb looked to the Elder Devil and hugged her close to his side desperately, "Alright."
He picked up the sleeping Elder Devil bridal style and carried her inside, followed by the group.
Right above them, a small red floating eyeball with black hairlike tendrils was observing them.
... Elsewhere...
Acula was levitating outside the Malone family's base, legs folded in a meditation position with all her eyes closed and a wide toothy grin.
"Hahaha, busteddd,' she snickered to herself, humming in amusement. She then took out her phone and dialled a number.
'Vhat is it now?' Satella spoke on the other line, confused as to why she called again so soon.
"I was just checking my 'Eye Spy' I left back there, don't ask, and it looks like you've got some unwanted visitors"
'Vhat?!' Satella exclaimed.
...back to Komanda Monstra...
Ranka and Nikami could be seen standing at Mirabelle's cage. The Nightmare, having recovered slightly from Fantina attack earlier, was now sitting in the corner with her back to the two liminals. They could hear her muttering something under her breath with her hands clasped and head bowed.
"Praise to the divine Oneiori, founder of the four clans. Praise to Nyx, goddess of plutonium night and mother of creation," Mirabelle muttered as Nikami raised an eyebrow.
"Huh. I guess that's her race's religious practice. Guess she's turning to her gods for help now," Nikami acknowledged in curiosity.
"Waste of time. Not a lot of good it'll do."
"Ranka-sama?" Nikami spoke.
"I beseech thine protection from all my enemies. Confound their politics, scatter their numbers, frustrate their vile tricks, and make them fall before your grace," Mirabelle muttered.
"Heh. Praying for our downfall now are we?", Ranka chuckled to herself.
"A bit of a spiteful thing, isn't she?" Nikami said, looking at her distastefully.
"I'm sorry to tell you this, but that's not how this world functions. When others want you dead, you either die by their hands or you kill them instead. No amount of prayer will change what a knife can do to an exposed neck. That's the world the so-called gods left us," Ranka bitterly spoke and folded her arms as she leaned against the wall.
Mirabelle continued her prayer, trying to ignore them. At that moment, a shadowy figure come rushing into the room before dissipating into Satella's base form.
"Satella! What's wrong?" Ranka inquired, noticing the vampire's haunting expression.
"He's here. Caleb Bizzell...and he is not alone," Satella spoke as Mirabelle's eyes shot open upon hearing that and turned around to face them.
"W-What?!" Mirabelle exclaimed, getting closer to the bars and listening intently.
"H-He actually came?!" Nikami gasped in surprise, ignoring the Centaur.
"Where did you see him? And how many are there?" Ranka inquired seriously.
"There are four others and are taking refuge in that motel a few miles from here near the train tracks. It appears one of them is incapacitated," Satella informed.
Ranka raised an eyebrow, "But, it's daylight. How could you know that?"
"I have my ways. The details are not important. What is, is that you two go there and KILL him along with anyone that stands in your way."
Ranka and Nikami looked to each other and nodded.
"Understood," they spoke, simultaneously then proceeded out of the room.
"No, wait!" Mirabelle called out desperately, reaching her arm out through the bars.
"Do not despair," Satella laughed, taking Mirabelle's arm and pushing her claws at her flesh, deterring her instinct to quickly withdraw. She glaring at Mirabelle with ruby red eyes and an unsettling grin, "Vhen you are my servant, your attachments will feel insignificant compared to what I have in store."
Mirabelle gave a horrified look, fearing what will happen to Dear and the others. Not knowing what else to do, she bowed her head and clenched her eyes shut.
"Praise to the divine Oneiori, mother of all Nightmare. Hail Nyx, goddess of the night and mother of creation. I beseech thee hear my prayer," Mirabelle chanted as her arms trembled and tears started to form in her eyes.
Satella rolled her eyes at the pitiful woman, then flung her arm loose as the Nightmare quickly clasped her hands. Then scoffed and turned around, leaving and resolving to break her of her childish sniveling once she was in her control.
"I ask you as your lowly servant, protect my-"
The audible sound of the door loudly slamming shut startled the Nightmare before she could finish.
Mirabelle's eyes welled up as she gripped the bars with her forehead laying against them. She wished in her heart for the safety of her family.
.
.
.
WN..
WHAT'S GOOD FAM!? I'm back. Hope you all enjoyed Easter and Mother's day. Mine was...ok, spent it with my aunt and cousins. Also, went to my best friend graduation with mine soon to follow hopefully this Summer if all goes well. First chapter of the manga is still in development, mainly because of budget issues and having to hire new artist for the team. Hopefully I can get both sorted out soon.
Hope you enjoyed the chapter. Next one should be out in a few days or so along with a new Monster girl love Stories chapter. I'm excited for a lot of new mon stories coming this year. Oh, kinda random fact, but I like to listen to Tsun Zhu Art of War on Audible for inspiration for the fights and scenarios in the story. No, I'm not sponsored (though I wish I was) I write these stories cuz I like doing it. Although, I am now open to commissions (hint).
Welp, that's all I gotta say. Feel free to like share and comment, or don't your choice. Fan art is up for viewing at DeviantArt/GoatmanofAnime. PEACE FAM.
*My Mind by Produced by MELV starts playing(listen on YouTube or Spotify