Chapter 5: An ally's haiku.
Cloud was well rested. He felt his body recovering from the exhaustion with ease. Flexing his joints to get them ready for the day, the swordsman soon left the hotel to go out and order a meal.
'Can't go running on an empty stomach. I wonder what should I have for breakfast." Cloud thought.
(Play Final Fantasy VII OST - Trail of Blood)
Looking around the city, Cloud noticed an outside restaurant nearby. He was feeling the hunger and was compelled to see the place. Before he could get close, a strange feeling creeped into his left arm. It felt like akin to a dull ache, almost a precursor to a cramp. This got him in surprise, not expecting the sudden sensation. Before he could question what was happening, the feeling disappeared as though it never existed.
'What was that…? For a moment, it felt like my body was fighting something inside of me. This has happened since yesterday when I started to cough. Either I'm getting stressed up or something is happening to me that I don't know of.' Cloud thought.
It was an uncomfortable silence as he was now wary of the unusual symptoms happening to him. Though he wanted to warn Raiden and the others of a possible illness he caught, Cloud had no idea how to contact them. It made him uneasy, feeling a sense of helplessness that was subtle yet present in his mind.
'Whatever this illness is that's starting to manifest, I can't risk myself of spreading it around. However, I doubt the people can hope to treat it. Even my Vision prowess with the wind won't help.' He thought with some disdain.
It was a silent time for him, but Cloud knew something was happening to him. Whatever was plaguing his body was gone for now. However, he knew it may come again. Holding a brief shutter to block off the foreboding feeling, the swordsman began heading to a nearby restaurant.
(Trail of Blood OST ends here)
[]
(Play Genshin Impact OST - Sakura Scented Kiseru)
Cloud was able to purchase some steamed rice with miso soup. He ate quietly, though he did enjoy the meal. Some of the patrons noticed his presence, but kept to themselves. They purchased their own meals as they ate leisurely.
'At least the people won't have to worry much about the Vision Hunt decree soon. At the rate of the investigation, no doubt Lady Shogun will start to rethink of what has been happening.' He thought with a somber tone.
Eating his meal, a stray flower petal billowed in the air before it landed on Cloud's right shoulder. It was a sakura petal shaped into a heart. He didn't attempt to take it off of his person. He was hungry and soon finished his meal.
'That hit the spot… I should head out to meet with Xavier. Gorou should also meet up there as well.' Cloud thought.
Before leaving, Cloud stumbled upon Ayaka, whom was enjoying her meal. She was surprised to see Cloud, not expecting to encounter him.
"Oh my. Good morning, Cloud." Ayaka called out.
Cloud turned to see her near him at a different table. He didn't expect to encounter anyone, let alone a friend.
"Good morning. It's quite a surprise." Cloud said, hinting his surprise.
"It's a small world it seems." Ayaka giggled.
"I agree. You came to enjoy a meal here?" Cloud asked.
"Yes. I do have my meals back at the Kamisato Estate. However, it doesn't stop me to come out and enjoy a meal prepared at a restaurant." Ayaka answered with a smile.
"I guess the feeling of wanting to be outside can get to others after some time." Cloud deduced.
"Indeed so. It looked like you're about to depart somewhere though. Are you busy with a quest?" Ayaka questioned.
"Yes. I was commissioned by Lady Shogun herself to investigate Tatarasuna. Circumstances have led to further actions requiring my aid." Cloud answered.
"I see. I won't push for any details since this is Lady Shogun's request. You have been a big help for the Yashiro Commission, whom had requests of several rōnin roaming around." Ayaka said.
"Not to worry. I'll share the details if I can be granted her permission to do so. Lady Shogun can trust you since the Yashiro Commission is part of the Tri-Commission." Cloud reassured.
"You don't have to request her permission, Cloud-san." Sara's voice echoed.
Cloud saw the familiar portal of an electrical eye opening. Sara appeared, showing a calm expression on her face, though she had a smirk ghosting on it.
"Raiden Shogun already trusts the Yashiro Commission so she can be shared of the details. On a personal note, I'm glad you're here in one piece." Sara said.
"Thanks for the concern, Kujou-san. I'm still investigating, but I'll fill you in the details." Cloud followed.
Cloud began explaining the events from yesterday. Sara and Ayaka were surprised to hear of his encounter with Gorou. Sara looked more concerned for the swordsman than Ayaka.
"So you were able to establish a temporary truce due to a common enemy we're about to face… Considering on how we have been dealing with the battles against Watatsumi, I believe a ceasefire between them and us should be called." Sara said.
"We have been at odds with them, even before recent laws have passed. As much as we all don't like the continuing bloodshed, I think we are able to establish a common ground." Ayaka followed.
"A peace treaty will take a while to establish… A ceasefire will be called so we can all discuss of a shared threat." Sara agreed.
"Couldn't say it any better. Right now, the skirmishes between Narukami and Watatsumi no longer matter. We know who's profiting from behind the scenes." Cloud said.
"The Fatui… They are the representatives of Snezhnaya. I've done some background checking of these people, including their Archon." Sara said.
"Interesting. I'll ask about that later on. For now, I may need to meet with Xavier in regards to the Mikage Furnace. He may be formulating a plan to fix the issue." Cloud said.
"Speaking of the furnace, what is the situation in regards to it?" Sara asked.
"The Fatui, according to Xavier, were spotted searching for any possible means to go to the furnace. Since the barrier prevented their means of entering, it delayed them. Now that the barrier is down, the Balethunder is the only thing that can ward them off." Cloud said.
"I would see why you wanted to head out to meet with him, Cloud-san. The people of Snezhnaya are known for their developments in technology. It doesn't take a genius to know if they have a plan to handle the climate anomaly." Sara realized.
"Exactly. Though I enjoy the time we had chatting, I must resume my business back at Tatarasuna." Cloud said.
"Oh yes. Before you leave, I want to provide this to you." Sara said, handing a device to Cloud.
The device in question looked like a handheld screen. Cloud likened it to a cellphone in comparison.
'This oddly looks like a cellphone, but it feels like I'm holding a handheld computer, or a PDA.' He thought.
"This device is used as a special communication. It uses elemental energy to contact any person whom you have met. You can use it to call for help if you need it." Sara explained.
"Thanks. I'll be sure to make use of this item." Cloud said.
Ayaka had a glum expression. In her mind, she wanted to spend more time with Cloud. His presence made her feel a longing she wished for.
'Hopefully when things began to get better, I hope to one day be recognized not as the Kamisato matriarch, but just me, Ayaka. While true I have to maintain the image I bring out, I yearn to be with someone whom doesn't treat me like I'm a princess.' She thought.
While she began to think of herself, her sight soon befell on Cloud.
'Cloud-san doesn't know much about the Kamisato clan, despite knowing of their role in the Yashiro Commission. It's perhaps the naive mind that I yearn to meet.' Ayaka thought.
Cloud soon felt Ayaka staring at him. He turned to look at her, only for the young woman to look away in a shy manner. This left him confused for a moment.
'I'm getting that kind of feeling she was staring at me. I wonder what is the occasion.' He thought.
Unknown to Cloud, Sara knew Ayaka was looking at Cloud with a familiar sensation. She felt a tinge of jealousy.
'Even among the Kamisato clan, love can show itself in many ways for any person. As pristine as she presents herself to be, even Ayaka herself has been smitten with Cloud-san it seems. I'm quite curious myself about him.' Sara thought.
Cloud remained silent as though he could feel something that will compete for him. It led to an awkward exchange of glances between him, Sara and Ayaka. Though he didn't know much about them in general, Cloud didn't want to divulge in personal relations yet.
'I already have plenty of emotional baggage on me. It's due to 'him' constantly taunting me of his visage. If only I could find the means to alleviate my concerns.' He pondered.
With a soft exhale, Cloud soon opened his map to choose the teleport wavepoint for him to arrive at. Before he left, Ayaka and Sara heard him speak.
"I'll be coming back when I'm done with the task at hand. We can meet at Shimura's tomorrow in the afternoon." Cloud spoke out.
Both Ayaka and Sara gave a soft smile as Cloud disappeared from their view. They soon looked at each other, feeling a sense to compete.
(Sakura Scented Kiseru OST ends here)
[]
(Play Genshin Impact OST - Sigh of An Old Friend)
Cloud arrived at Tatarasuna. Xavier was awaiting for his arrival, along with Gorou. A third male was among them. The male in question was a young man in his late teens. The young man had with choppy, medium length hair, some of it tied in an off centered ponytail to his right. It is a platinum blonde color, apart from a single orange-red streak on his right. He has red eyes with a yellow hue at the bottom. His outfit consists of a grey short sleeved kimono and a black haori coat with maple leaf patterns. Half the coat is worn normally on his left arm, with a flowy orange sleeve decorated with orange and red maple leaves, while the other half is draped behind his waist and secured by an obi belt he wears over top. He wears a black and red scarf with gold accents, and a slanted belt that goes under his right arm and over his left shoulder. An Anemo Vision was seen on the belt, tied with a red tassel decoration, near a samurai shoulder plating. He wears red hakama pants with maple leaf designs and black sandals with dark red tights and a black piece of leather on both legs that covers from under his kneecaps to near his feet. He wears black glove plates that protect the backs of his hands and his left forearm. His right hand is shown to be bandaged. Cloud immediately thought he was looking at a mirror version of himself upon seeing the young man.
"We've been waiting, Cloud-san." Gorou spoke.
"Forgive me of my tardiness. I had to report to Kujou-san in regards about the Mikage Furnace." Cloud apologized.
"Kujou-san? You mean Kujou Sara from the Tenryou Commission. I know of her. She's the best archer in Narukami and the second hand of the Shogun's forces in terms of command." Gorou said.
"Gorou-san, perhaps I may need to be enlightened of our new acquaintance. He seems more interested in dealing with the problem at hand." The young man spoke with a calm tone.
"Oh, where are my manners? Cloud-san, this is Kaedehara Kazuha. This is the friend whom I spoke to you about from yesterday." Gorou spoke.
"I'm Cloud. Cloud Strife." Cloud introduced.
"Pleased to meet you, Cloud-san. I've heard about you from Gorou-san, but I was only given brief details. Perhaps in this journey we can understand each other." Kazuha said.
"The more the merrier. Though I would like to share the details, we have a pressing matter to attend to." Cloud said.
"I was relayed by Gorou about the situation with the Mikage Furnace. You two were helping an engineer to fix the issue." Kazuha spoke.
"Yes. We have been helping the engineer." Cloud confirmed.
"Let's go meet him. He may relay on what we should do next." Gorou said.
The three males made their way to meet with Xavier, whom was standing outside a cliffside cabin. The teleport wavepoint was a short walk away, making the distance easy to cross. Xavier was awaiting Cloud and Gorou, pacing around in a slight, panicked tone.
"I've been awaiting your arrival, Cloud and Gorou. I see additional help has been provided with your friend, Gorou." Xavier said, looking at Kazuha.
"I'm Kaedehara Kazuha. I'm here to provide help in regards to this mission. I've been relayed of what has been happening so I came here to help out." Kazuha said.
"Excellent. We need all the help we can get. Today's mission is to survey the environment around the furnace." Xavier announced.
"So what do we need to do?" Cloud asked.
"Let me start explaining the situation. I got good news and bad news. Which one do you want to hear?" Xavier started.
"Start with the good news." Cloud suggested.
"The good news is the furnace is still in tact. The main core of the furnace suffered minor damage, but it can be repaired to full functionality." Xavier answered.
"And the bad news?" Gorou asked reluctantly.
"The Fatui have been poking around the area and they don't like the good news. I believe they're trying to reach the Tatarigami core of the furnace. If they managed to steal the core, the power will go out of control and destroy the island with anyone on it." Xavier answered with a shaky tone.
"That is concerning. Since the Balethunder is caused by the leftover energy from a fallen god, I wouldn't doubt the Fatui would find means to use it as an energy source for their needs. Plus, the thought of destroying one of the islands of Inazuma is a sight I wouldn't want to see again." Cloud said.
"Exactly. They must not reach for the core." Xavier confirmed.
"It's worth mentioning that the containment barrier for the furnace is barely holding on. At this rate, the barrier would soon drop completely, covering the island in Balethunder." Kazuha noted.
"In a sense, academically speaking, we're facing two separate threats all at once. So yes, we are tackling two problems at once." Xavier spoke.
"Duly noted. The main objectives are to repair the core of the Mikage Furnace and to ward off the Fatui. Is there a way to assess the current area?" Cloud questioned.
"I do have a way to assess the problem, despite lacking a Vision. However, it requires one to venture within the furnace outskirts. Even if I were to venture near the outer sections of the containment field, the Balethunder would flash fry me. Vision bearers have more tolerance to this anomaly for some reason." Xavier said.
"While I would agree, however, both Cloud and I experienced the Balethunder. Though we didn't become victims to it, we felt our bodies slowly boiling due to the saturated Electro element in the air." Gorou said.
"Interesting to note that. Anyway, these devices are what need to be used." Xavier said, presenting small devices to the group.
The devices were compact, appearing like a rhombus. The color is a deep blue color with a white dot on one of the faces. They were small enough to fit in the palm of a human hand. Cloud was quite curious of the device, looking stupefied.
"These devices are Sensor Beacons. They measure ambient energy in the surrounding area they're planted at. With usage of these sensors, I can measure the Tatarigami energy within the furnace." Xavier explained.
"How can they begin working?" Kazuha questioned.
"There's a small button that's colored white. It's that small dot that will activate the sensor. Just push it and it'll do the rest." Xavier answered.
"I see now…" Cloud said with surprise.
"Seems like you're getting it, Cloud." Xavier noted.
"You're planning to measure the energy within the furnace to get a scope of the picture. In other words, it's to prepare when we venture within the Balethunder." Cloud revealed.
"Precisely. I've marked the locations to plant the sensors on your map. All three of you must plant the devices on the exact spot. Once you've done so, I'll be gathering data and determine the next course of the plan." Xavier explained.
Having been informed of the plan, Cloud, Gorou, and Kazuha decided to go in separate ways to plant the beacons.
"We'll meet back here to confirm the beacons are planted." Cloud said.
"Agreed. We need to make it quick though. Even with help from the Electrogranum, the Balethunder will overwhelm us if we stay too long." Gorou said.
"Once we get all the beacons planted from the respective locations, we need to meet back here. Let us proceed." Kazuha spoke.
[]
Cloud, Gorou and Kazuha were about to set out to place the beacons. They were at the eastern entrance to the Mikage Furnace.
"So, where will we be setting the beacons?" Gorou asked.
"The three locations are close to each other. I'll take the middle section." Cloud said.
"I'll handle the northern section near the furnace site. I have a glider to use." Kazuha followed.
"Be careful. The Tatarigami energy is heavily concentrated at the furnace site." Cloud warned.
"I'll handle the southern part at the peak of the furnace site. I'll keep note of the amount of time spent there." Gorou said.
"Alright. We all have our tasks at hand. Let's do this." Cloud said.
The trio went their separate ways to finish their objectives.
[]
Gorou was heading to his designated area. It was a large smelting area, evident by the numerous ores that were shipped there. A large stone furnace was shown, but the wood to keep the fire lit is charred black, rendering it useless. Nearby, a tree like structure with lightning coursing around it was shown.
'A Thunderwood. Perhaps that could help with the Balethunder if the electrogranum wears off.' He thought.
Before heading to the site to set the beacon, Gorou noticed three people wearing specialized equipment. They all held a badge that looked like a four sided round cross with equal lengths of the sides and four eyes. The insignia was a dead giveaway to the archer, whom recognized it. He hid in a nearby bush, making sure his form was not seen.
(Play Genshin Impact OST - Duel in the Mist)
'Fatui… Looks like Cloud was right all along…' Gorou thought.
He took aim with his bow. It looked metallic in appearance with several sections near the arcs having a turquoise color. Two dials, one turquoise and one purple were shown with two strings on the bow, suggesting they act as an adjustment to the main string. The main bow was a soft gold color, appearing a mix between gold and platinum, making it appear bright silver in the sunlight.
'As trained from the Watatsumi army…' Gorou thought.
Gathering his strength, he held the arrow far enough before elemental energy began to converge to the arrowhead. He let the bowstring go, firing the arrow imbued with Geo elemental power. The arrow whizzed through the air before hitting its target on the head. It was a female Fatui agent, whom was wearing purple clothing with the appearance of a witch. A small purple lantern was shown before she dropped it after being shot down. The other two male agents were roused from her death.
"Show yourself, coward!" Male Fatui agent #1 shouted.
The male in question had gauntlets and greaves which flowed with a blue green color. Gorou theorized the equipment was made to channel wind.
'This agent seems more of a vanguard type with that equipment. Judging from the elemental energy, he can use Anemo powers. I still have the element of surprise to take him down.' He thought, staying hidden in the bushes.
Taking aim once more, Gorou aimed at the agent before releasing a Geo enhanced arrow at the head. The agent didn't see the shot and was killed.
'Two down… One more left.' He thought.
However, his hiding spot was compromised by the last agent, whom held a rifle-like weapon.
"Found you at last. Time to fry!" Male Fatui Agent #2 said with delight.
The agent in question was wearing western style clothing with cyberpunk themes. He was wearing a small top hat with a red line with a metallic accessory with two red feathers. Near the neck area, there was a tuff of leather collar armor and a shoulder leather armor all appearing brown with red lines running. At the center near his chest, a Vision-like object was shown, glowing red-orange. The coat was a bright red color with the sleeves turning orange. The gloves he wore were long, appearing to reach to the elbows and looked thick. Lastly, he had brown pants with black boots that had a red underside with white frills. Gorou deduced the weapon the agent held must require the clothing he wore to shield himself from the backlash of the temperature.
'This agent is quite a marksman with that weapon. I'll have to take precautions to watch those shots since they travel faster than my arrows. I may need to call in backup.' He thought.
He soon channeled Geo energy to the ground, creating a spectral image of a flag bearing the Watatsumi insignia. It created a strange field of Geo energy, which was being absorbed into Gorou.
'Geo powers do have the upper hand in proving it be useful as a strong defense. With this spectral flag, I should be able to boost my defense in case he decides to attack me.' He thought.
"Oh? A Geo Vision user? I thought almost all the citizens of Inazuma had their Visions confiscated." Male Fatui Agent #2 spoke with surprise.
"I'm not from Narukami Island, where the Raiden Shogun resides. I'm from a different island, you bastard." Gorou spoke.
"Nonetheless, it doesn't matter. Take this!" Male Fatui Agent #2 spoke.
The agent began firing from his weapon. Bullets of fire were seen moving faster than Gorou's arrows. Some landed near him while the rest managed to nick Gorou. However, the spectral flag he created was able to deflect the strength and elemental power, weakening their impact.
'I'll have to admit, that weapon does pack a wallop. Even with my elemental abilities, it may have soften their impact, but the shots still hurt.' He thought.
Taking aim at the agent, Gorou launched a quick arrow at his legs, stumbling the agent down.
"Gah! You bastard!" Male Fatui Agent #2 shouted.
"It's you and your comrades whom have caused so much distrust in Inazuma. It's fitting for you to perish, considering all the damage you and your group have caused." Gorou spoke in a dark tone.
Taking aim at the stunned agent, Gorou soon pinned him down by shooting arrows at his shoulders, rendering his arms useless.
"Though I personally have no qualms, your presence is the reason my home has been torn in this war even further. Rest In Peace." Gorou said, shooting the final arrow at the agent's head.
The Fatui Agent soon shook before going limp, dead. Gorou went to the site near the stone furnace and placed the beacon, activating it.
"That leaves Cloud-san and Kazuha-san to finish their part." Gorou said to himself.
He was able to complete his objective in time, though he remained near the Thunderwood to buy some time. He didn't want to wander off due to the Balethunder.
(Duel in the Mist OST ends here)
[]
Kazuha was heading to his intended spot to place the beacon. Climbing his way up to the peak of a small mountain, he found the task difficult due to the lack of Thunder Sakura Brioughs. It nearly caused him to experience the boiling sensation from the Balethunder in response.
'This is quite challenging. I could imagine Cloud or Gorou enduring this weather anomaly with problems. I have to hurry… I can't stay near the furnace for long.' He thought.
(Play Genshin Impact OST - Against the Invisible Net)
The pathway to reach the peak was teeming with Fatui agents. There were two bulky agents whom looked intimidating from their appearance alone. Both wore what appeared to be suit with a tank filled with their respective elements. One was a dark blue, representing Hydro, and the other was light blue, representing Cryo. Both had a cannon with a hose being held in their right hands.
'Two enemy squad…
Wielding both water and ice.
Such a deadly team.'
Kazuha mused, making a haiku.
He soon equipped his weapon. It was an intricate blade, with the appearance of a katana, but there subtle differences. The tsuba of the blade has an extended habaki that appears to reach above, running on the hamon of the blade. Below the tsuba, the fuchi extends to a mouth like decoration, holding the tsuka which is purple. The makidome of the sword held a small accessory, which is a jewel with the Electro symbol with two cords attached.
'The Amenoma Kageuchi… I have to repay my respects to the Saimon Clan, whom inherited the design for the blade from the lost Iwakura Clan. If the Iwakura clan members are out there, beyond Konda Village, I may have a chance to thank them.' Kazuha thought.
He dashed toward, using his Anemo powers granted by his Vision. The two Fatui agents didn't expect a sudden attack. Both attempted to leap back, but Kazuha managed to destroy the cannon hose for the Cryo user, rendering him useless for combat. A small cut on his cheek was shown.
"Damn you! You destroyed my weapon!" Fatui Cryogunner spoke in disdain.
"That is just the tip.
Be gone from this place right now.
Lest death comes for you."
Kazuha spoke in a haiku.
The Hydrogunner agent began producing water from its hose in a large bubble. The bubble of water went to the Cryogunner, splashing him with healing water. The cut on the Fatui agent began healing at an incredible speed. Kazuha was surprised upon seeing this.
'So the Hydrogunner is a healer. I managed to make the Cryogunner useless to fight by destroying his weapon. However, I'll have to fight off the healer to ensure they're put down.' Kazuha analyzed.
He dashed forward to the Hydrogunner in a gust of wind. The Hydrogunner didn't had a chance to react as Kazuha appeared with little warning near him. Soon, a faint clink was heard as the young man pulled his sword out. Words were uttered as he prepared the next attack.
"Kaedehara style: Chihayaburu." Kazuha said.
He channeled the Anemo element around him, creating a vacuum effect that drew both the Hydro and Cryogunner. The two Fatui agents were soon buffeted by the combination of wind and water. Kazuha was soon in the air before he began to plunge his way down. His lips began to utter another series of words.
'Kaedehara style: Midare Ranzan.' Kazuha thought.
Upon landing, a wind tunnel was created, blasting the two agents with a powerful gust of wind. Both soon hit the mountainside hard enough to shatter the containers they held on their backs. Water and ice combined together, freezing the two agents alive. Kazuha didn't spare a glance as he soon performed his next attack.
"Kaedehara style secret technique: Kazuha slash." He said.
Pulling his might to the sword he held, Kazuha channeled incredible Anemo energy. The force caused a strong gust to be emitted. It created a small field of the persistent gust, constantly slicing the two frozen agents with invisible wind blades. Both soon shattered due to the increasing might of the attack.
'Now the beacon…' Kazuha thought.
He placed the beacon at the precise location. Having done his objective, Kazuha didn't linger for too long as the Balethunder was fighting against the electrogranum. The young man fled from the area, no longer near the Mikage Furnace.
(Against the Invisible Net OST ends here)
[]
Cloud was climbing his way up to his target location. He was surprised of the large rock formation floating in the air.
'This land's geography is one to not lose your head in. I may have seen a lot back from my home world, but nothing like this. This giant rock is practically floating due to the electromagnetism. The ambient Electro energy is acting like a magnet in keeping this landmass afloat.' He thought.
The swordsman had to traverse the landmass by making his way down to his objective. Several wooden bridges were built on the landmass to help anchor it. Luck was on his side as the passage to his target had several Thunder Sakura Brioughs.
'It seems the people whom created the Mikage Furnace had to use special anchors. Since the landmass is practically floating, the bridges are probably used to hold it in place. I can't stay here too long since I'm close to the site. Even with the Electrograna, I have a limit to how long I can withstand it.' Cloud thought.
(Play Genshin Impact OST - Overlord of the Thunderstorm)
Unfortunately, his path was intercepted by three Fatui Agents. Two were female, dressed in a witch's outfit, though one was purple while the other was a mint blue color. Both held lanterns and were ready to fight Cloud. The last agent was a male, whom held a staff-like object. He had a brown coat with yellow highlights that bore the Geo element symbol on the sides and sleeves. The coat possesses a tuft of white fur around the collar. The male agent had large brown gloves with white highlights around the wrists. A small white jewel was shown on the middle of the dorsal side. Underneath the coat, a white vest was shown. He had light brown pants with brown boots with yellow heels. The boots had white tufts at the top.
"I found you, peeper." The purple colored female agent spoke.
"Can you handle the cold?" The mint blue colored female agent questioned.
Cloud noticed several creatures flying near the female agents. They looked like a mix between a fly and a bat. The notable feature they had was yellow glowing eyes.
"What the heck are these?" He questioned, dodging an elemental attack.
"Oh my. You don't know about the Cicin? These cute little pets of mine are doing what I want them to do. Anything for a dash of Mist Flower Pollen." The mint blue female agent replied.
'Cicins… These bat-like creatures seem capable of using elemental powers based on the environment. If anything, those Fatui agents indicate which elements they're using based on the color of their clothing.' Cloud thought.
Dodging another elemental shot of Electro, Cloud channeled his Anemo powers from his Vision to his sword. Soon, he swung his weapon, creating a shockwave that raced to the Electro Cicins. The first one was hit before the shockwave split, targeting the rest nearby.
"Oh? Not bad. I only needed to make more so entertain me." The purple female agent complimented.
More Electro Cicins were summoned, prompting Cloud to dodge the elemental attacks. An Electro shot grazed him on his left arm, making him feel the numbing sensation.
'Ngh…! Fighting off the summoned won't do me any good. I have to fight off those agents.' Cloud thought.
The swordsman shook off the numbing sensation. He soon eyed the male agent, whom was channeling Geo elemental power.
'That male agent is using the Geo element as a support unit. I'll have to take him down quick if I have to take down the others.' Cloud thought.
The lone male agent knew Cloud was coming. He raised his staff before striking the ground, conjuring a dome of Geo energy. Cloud attempted to use a shockwave attack, but it was all for naught. The attack bounced off of the dome.
'So that dome can shield ranged attacks. If it can take ranged combat, how about up close?' The swordsman deduced.
Cloud walked through the dome before performing heavy attacks on the male Fatui agent. The impact from his attacks caused the agent to lose control of the Geo element, leaving him staggered.
"This is bad… Support!" The male Fatui agent shouted.
The two female Fatui agents tried to hold off Cloud, only to be afflicted with a sharp cut from a blade of Anemo. The swordsman had his weapon swung, generating the blade.
"Kyaa!" The purple female Fatui agent shrieked.
"Noo!" The mint blue Fatui agent followed.
Cloud didn't had a smirk on his face. Rather, it was a displeased expression, which left him questioning the motive of the Fatui. Suppressing the thought aside, he dashed forward before impaling the Buster Sword into the male Fatui agent. The agent groaned, feeling the blade in his body. However, Cloud was soon afflicted with a brief headache before a visage of Sephiroth came to him.
"You!" He said.
(Play Final Fantasy 7 Remake OST - Those Chosen By the Planet)
Sephiroth gave a cold laugh, watching Cloud who was horror struck.
"Still trying to fight me off, Cloud? Too bad you won't rid of me that easily." Sephiroth spoke.
"Shut up…" Cloud snarled.
"I wonder how much of the inhabitants here in this world you care about. The Shogun herself or that Ayaka?" Sephiroth taunted.
"Shut up…!" Cloud spoke, raising his voice.
"Give me the pleasure of one day ending them so you can succumb to despair." Sephiroth added.
"SHUT UP!!!" Cloud roared.
The visage of Sephiroth soon had a surprised expression before Cloud unleashed a series of slashes that created the kanji for bane (凶).
"Bane cutter." Cloud uttered.
"Damn you…" Sephiroth spoke.
(Those Chosen By the Planet OST ends here)
Cloud was breathing heavily. He was fatigued after using his Limit Break in such aggression. The visage of Sephiroth faded, revealing the Fatui Agent whom held on a Geo staff. Blood was seen splattered around the fields. This left the swordsman in shock that he let his mind be vulnerable to Sephiroth's influence.
'Damn it… Again, I left myself vulnerable. It has to stop… I can't let him influence me like this.' He thought.
Shaking his head to calm himself, Cloud placed the beacon on the targeted area. He had done his objective and was now awaiting to regroup with the team.
[]
After several minutes, Cloud, Gorou and Kazuha arrived near Xavier. The researcher was surprised of their arrival.
"Ah, welcome back. I can see that you planted the beacons accordingly." Xavier noted.
"How do you know they were planted?" Cloud asked.
"The beacons are connected to a sensor which helps me gauge the Tatarigami energy. The moment they activated, I've got the details as to what is happening here." Xavier explained.
"Well, at least we've done our task for today here in Tatarasuna." Gorou said.
"Yes. It'll take some time for me to analyze the amount of energy from the beacons recording. I'll await your return tomorrow to update the events." Xavier said.
"Time to head back. Thanks for helping out, Kazuha-san." Gorou said.
"At ease, my friend. I'm willing to lend a helping hand." Kazuha spoke.
"It's a calming feeling to have comrades working in the same goal." Cloud admitted.
"A calming treaty. Beyond which wisdom arrives. A safe place for all." Kazuha said, writing his haiku.
"A haiku, huh?" Cloud spoke with surprise.
"Kazuha-san is known for his poetry in developing haikus. It's nothing unusual." Gorou said.
"That does provide a sense of calming for any weary person." Cloud spoke with surprise.
"I often write poetry as a way to convey what I experience during my time as a wandering samurai. It has been beneficial for me." Kazuha replied.
"In any case, we'll meet back here same time tomorrow. We'll have to wait till Xavier analyzes the ambient energy around the furnace." Cloud said.
"I agree. These meetings have been proving to be useful and trusting." Gorou said, hinting a friendly vibe.
Cloud soon left via teleportation. Kazuha and Gorou watched where he last stood before having a calm expression on their faces.
"I must admit, he's a strong yet trusting person." Gorou revealed.
"That he has, Gorou-san. I might as well write a new haiku of our experience one day." Kazuha offered.
"Looking forward to it, Kazuha-san." Gorou replied.