Hello!
I'm excited to announce that this story is reaching more people every day! Thank you so much to all of you; I'm really pleased to see this project slowly growing. I assure you that as I continue updating, the plot will become more epic and exciting. I can't wait to see how this story continues to evolve and how you all continue to be part of it.
Thank you very much for your support, and I hope you continue to enjoy the story as much as I enjoy writing it!
Response to reviews:
Some1call4MR-E: Thank you for the review!I understand your concerns, but I want to assure you that this story differs from what you mentioned. There will be no fanservice here; instead, we will focus on creating a detailed narrative and an interesting lore. Although it is set in the Dragon Ball universe with characters like Mirai Trunks and Mai, our intention is to develop a plot that explores new aspects of the world and the characters. The introduction of elements like Ophis and the Z Sword adds layers of complexity and originality to the story. I hope you'll be encouraged to keep reading to discover how this deeper narrative unfolds.
Regarding the Z Sword, we can apply the logic used in the original Mirai Trunks timeline. If in that timeline the androids were psychopathic killers and in the current timeline they are good people, we can apply a similar approach to the Supreme Kai trapped in the Z Sword. In the current timeline, he is a pervert, while in Mirai Trunks' timeline he is a bit more serious. This suggests that the Supreme Kai's personality can vary depending on the timeline he is in, adding an interesting layer of complexity to his character and the plot development.
Thank you for your support!
Danish78: Thank you for your detailed feedback and for following the story. I'm glad you noticed the meticulous exposition and setup in the chapter.
Regarding the Z-Sword and Elder Kai, both elements will definitely play a significant role in the upcoming events and will be further explored as the plot progresses.
As for Ophis, her character development will be interesting to follow. Her transition from kuudere to yandere will be explored in more detail, and her relationship with Trunks will gradually unfold throughout the story. It will be exciting to see how that dynamic develops and what decisions Ophis makes.
Regarding the lack of interest from other factions in the mysterious visitor to the Underworld, it's a valid observation. More details about the reactions of the Grigori and Heaven factions will be revealed in future chapters to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.
I appreciate your comments and hope you continue to enjoy the story. Good luck and stay safe as well!
Vulcanator: Thank you for your comments! I'm glad you like the writing style and the interactions between the characters. Rest assured that there will be more developments and exciting moments in the upcoming chapters. I hope you continue to enjoy the story as it progresses.
Crescentation: I'm glad you're enjoying it! The premise is really interesting, and the interactions between the characters add depth to the story. The interaction between Ophis and the Z-Sword was a highlight for many readers. Ophis will likely cause headaches for Trunks in the future, adding a layer of tension to the narrative. I hope the story continues to capture your interest, and I hope to keep you hooked on the plot developments.
Chapter 3 - Shadows of the Past.
The Maōs were deeply concerned as recent disturbances in the supernatural world foretold turbulent times. Aware of the implications this could have for the human world, they understood the urgency of taking preventive measures before the situation spiraled out of control.
The theft of the sacred swords was a devastating blow to the stability of the three factions. They knew the responsible party was the fallen angels, led by Kokabiel, one of Grigory's cadres. However, they were unsure if this act had the backing of the entire faction or if it was an independent action.
Uncertainty permeated the discussions among the faction leaders. The possibility of Azazel's involvement posed an even more delicate scenario, as it could trigger a large-scale war if not handled with caution.
Yet, acting hastily without having all the information could be even more dangerous. The Maōs understood the importance of patience and meticulousness in their investigations, avoiding rash decisions that could escalate into a major conflict. The key lay in gathering the necessary information to make informed decisions and thus prevent a violent escalation that could have catastrophic consequences for all involved.
For now, they would remain on alert, should an eventuality arise. They knew that besides the theft of the sacred swords, other forces were at play in the supernatural world. Among them, the announced arrival of two priestesses with the mission to destroy the stolen sacred swords.
This new information added an additional layer of complexity to the situation. While the priestesses shared the objective of neutralizing the threat posed by the sacred swords, their methods and motivations might not align with the interests of the existing factions.
The Maōs understood they had to stay vigilant and ready to interact with these new arrivals, but they also had to proceed with caution to avoid misunderstandings or unnecessary conflicts. Diplomacy and cooperation could be key to managing this crisis effectively and preventing an escalation of tensions that would only worsen the situation.
The priestesses, focused on their mission to destroy the sacred swords, seemed unwilling to initiate conflicts with the demons guarding the territory of Kuoh. This news, while somewhat relieving the Maōs' concerns, also raised new questions.
What other plans could these priestesses have? Would they be willing to collaborate with the Maōs and other factions to address the threat posed by the sacred swords? Or, conversely, would they seek to carry out their mission independently, without considering the implications for the balance of power in the supernatural world?
For now, they would await reports from the future heirs.
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"The food in this country is delicious, Irina!" exclaimed Xenovia enthusiastically as she savored her meal.
"Yes, definitely. This is exactly how I remembered the food in my country," replied Irina in the same manner, enjoying every bite she took.
Issei, accompanied by Koneko and Saji (who had no choice but to accept), set out to locate the priestesses to help them destroy the sacred swords, even though it wasn't their responsibility. All of this was solely to help their friend Kiba, whose safety and well-being were paramount to them.
After traversing the bustling streets of Kuoh, they finally located the priestesses on a corner, begging for alms from passersby. Although their robes bestowed upon them a seriousness and elegance that commanded respect, it was quite comical to see them solemnly begging for alms, causing secondhand embarrassment among the onlookers.
When they arrived at the restaurant, the priestesses wasted no time and, without hesitation, ordered their food almost demanding the waitress to bring it as quickly as possible, an action that left Issei and Saji perplexed.
Once the waitress placed the food on the table, both girls pounced on it as if they had gone days without eating anything at all. Every bite was accompanied by a guttural sound, and their voracity was so primal that it was unpleasant to witness. They devoured the food with a speed and ferocity that left the present ones dumbfounded. The noises they made as they emptied each plate filled the air, creating a chaotic atmosphere at the table. It seemed as if they were in a competition to see who could eat faster, without caring about manners or decorum.
"Such voracious appetite," said Saji, unable to even touch his own plate.
"They were really hungry," Issei responded in the same manner, a bead of sweat running down his forehead.
The waitress attending them arrived with a generously sized burger, and before she could put it on the table, Xenovia almost snatched it from her hands.
"Finally!" she exclaimed impatiently, starting to devour it as if someone were going to take it away from her.
After voraciously devouring all the food they had ordered, the priestesses finally finished their feast. There was not a trace left of the plates that had filled the table before, and their voracity had been completely satiated. The restaurant fell silent for a moment before conversations and murmurs filled the atmosphere again. It was evident that they had left a memorable impression in that place with their insatiable appetite.
They let out a sigh of relief before changing their expression to one of apparent regret.
"What have we done?" Xenovia said, her distressed expression palpable as she tightly held onto her robe. "Being saved by a demon... it feels like the end of the world."
"We've sold our souls to the demons," added Irina, dramatizing her voice as a glimmer of light seemed to envelop her, as if she were in the middle of a celestial scene. "Oh, forgive us, Lord."
"As always, it's a pleasure to help you!" expressed Issei with evident annoyance.
"Issei-sempai..."
Issei sighed heavily, Koneko-chan was right... it was important to maintain composure and avoid any confrontation that could ruin negotiations with the priestesses. Although it was difficult for him to contain his pride, he understood that it was necessary to act with prudence and set aside the provocative comments from the church servants.
"I understand now, Koneko-chan," Issei breathed to calm his thoughts.
"Lord, please pour your mercy upon these kind-hearted demons," Irina said as she took her cross and began to cross herself.
Immediately after, Issei, Saji, and Koneko felt a piercing pain in their heads, as if they were being pierced by a thousand invisible needles. The pain was so intense that it made them tightly close their eyes and grit their teeth to endure it.
"We DON'T NEED THAT KIND OF THANKS!" Issei exclaimed, holding his head to ease the pain.
"Oops, sorry. I did it without thinking," said Irina, looking apologetic as she crossed herself with her cross.
Issei, surprised, carefully observed Irina's charming smile. The softness in her features and the warmth in her expression seemed completely opposed to the rough and rude image he had of her in his mind during their childhood together. Once the headache ceased, Issei, Saji, and Koneko gradually recovered, although they still felt affected by the experience.
The atmosphere became tense when Xenovia cleared her throat for a moment, capturing everyone's attention.
"So, why were you looking for us?"
The atmosphere was charged with expectation as Xenovia awaited a response. The three youths felt somewhat uncomfortable under the inquisitive gaze of the priestess, aware that they were being thoroughly evaluated. Amidst the tension, Issei made an effort to maintain composure and respond clearly, although a slight feeling of nervousness crept over him. Meanwhile, Saji and Koneko remained silent, observing the interaction cautiously, ready to intervene if necessary.
Issei took a slight sip of his soda before responding.
"You came to this country to destroy the Excaliburs, right?" Issei pointed out, recalling the previous conversation.
"That's correct. We already said that," she confirmed, still expectant to know why these demons had helped them.
Issei, feeling the need to clarify their position and demonstrate their goodwill, took the initiative to break the silence that had settled.
"We want to help you," he declared with determination, trying to convey confidence to the priestesses.
"What did you say?" said Xenovia, sharpening her gaze a little more.
On her part, Irina seemed surprised by Issei's declaration. Her face reflected a hint of disbelief and caution at the young demon's unexpected proposal. Irina looked at Xenovia, as if expecting a response from her. Xenovia seemed to ponder it, but she kept her eyes on the three demons present.
"You can see it this way," Issei explained, visibly uncomfortable under the blue-haired priestess's gaze, "if we help you, we could destroy the swords faster and cover a larger area of the city."
"I see," she murmured, "I suppose you have a point in your favor."
Issei swallowed nervously and waited anxiously for Xenovia's decision, feeling a wave of fear wash over him. The idea of being rejected filled them with apprehension; a negative response could trigger a battle between angels, fallen angels, and demons, and they wouldn't be able to help Kiba. Issei struggled to push those thoughts out of his mind, reminding himself that his immediate priority was dealing with the Excaliburs. However, a persistent concern lingered in his mind: would it be considered an insult to celestial beings if they, as demons, destroyed those sacred weapons? As he reflected on these issues, Xenovia finally broke the silence to give her answer.
"I suppose I can leave you one sword," Xenovia declared with a gesture of generosity.
Irina's expression reflected total consternation. This was a mission entrusted to them by the church, so it was as if that mission had been entrusted to them by God. And yet she was allowing herself to accept help from demons?
"Xenovia... What do you think you're doing?! Even if it's Ise-kun, he's still a demon, you know?" Irina voiced her concern, reflecting a typical response in such circumstances.
"Irina, to be honest with you, it would be really difficult for the two of us to retrieve all three Excaliburs and face Kokabiel," Xenovia responded seriously, assessing the situation pragmatically.
"I know. But...!"
Irina's words reflected her concern for the safety and success of their mission, while Xenovia explained the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences of their mission with total honesty.
"The minimum objective is to destroy the three Excaliburs or retrieve them. If our sacred swords are going to be stolen, then we must have the ability to destroy them before that happens. Even if it means resorting to a last resort, there's only a 30 percent chance that we'll succeed in our mission and return home safely," Xenovia explained, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the potential consequences of their mission.
Irina was reluctant to help, despite understanding Xenovia's logic. On one hand, the presence of the demons could expedite the process of destroying the sacred swords and increase the chances of success in their mission. However, allowing demons to participate also entails risks, as they could have hidden motives or not respect the restrictions imposed by their status as supernatural beings.
"If you understand the situation then you know better than anyone that we can't afford to reject their help," Xenovia said firmly, reiterating the need to accept the demons' collaboration in the face of the grave threat they were facing.
Irina fell silent, understanding the logic behind Xenovia's reasoning and acknowledging the need to accept the demons' collaboration.
"We'll accept your help," Xenovia said, making a definitive decision in light of the situation they were facing.
"Perfect," Issei responded, nodding determinedly, "but before that, I'd like to bring someone else, if that's okay."
Xenovia pondered for a moment, considering Issei's request. After evaluating the situation, she nodded seriously before responding.
"I understand. If you believe their presence will be beneficial, then there are no objections."
With the priestess's approval, Issei quickly took out his phone and dialed Kiba's number, hoping his friend would answer to discuss the details of the situation.
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Trunks was on the rooftop of the hospital, gazing at the nocturnal landscape spread out before him. The stars twinkled in the dark sky, while the moonlight illuminated his face with a soft glow. The nighttime breeze gently tousled his hair as he silently contemplated the tranquil urban panorama.
He couldn't sleep. He had been plagued by a nightmare that left him deeply disturbed. In his dream, he relived the horrors of past battles, where he faced ruthless and powerful enemies.
The atmosphere was serene and peaceful, but inside Trunks, a sense of unease persisted. He clung to the edge of the building, feeling the cool night breeze caress his face, trying to find some calm amidst the storm of thoughts tormenting him.
The memory of the battle against Black and Zamasu remained fresh in his mind, as if it were yesterday. The images of destruction and suffering they had witnessed flooded his thoughts, reminding him of the terrible devastation they had faced. Despite his determination in the fight, he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the weight of responsibility and uncertainty about the future.
He didn't want to think about it, but the memory lingered, alive, hammering his conscience, reminding him of the failures he had in his life. And of the world he could never save.
*Flashback*
(Soundtrack - Naruto Shippuden Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 Hidden Leaf Village destroyed)
Trunks found himself amidst a desolate and ruined city, its shattered buildings and empty streets reflecting the devastation of the West Capital. The sky was darkened by dense black clouds that moved ominously, while lightning flashed with fury, intermittently illuminating the scene with ghostly flashes.
Among the rubble lay the remnants of what was once a thriving metropolis, now reduced to rubble and ashes. The air was thick with the smell of smoke and desolation, while the wind blew with a mournful moan through the collapsed buildings.
In the heat of the nightmare, Trunks found himself embroiled in a desperate confrontation against Androids 17 and 18. His fury was palpable as he threw punches and attacks with all the strength he could muster, but the androids dodged each move with insulting agility, mocking his efforts.
"Damn it!" Trunks shouted in frustration as his attacks seemed to bounce off without causing any damage.
The androids reveled in their superiority, laughing scornfully at the young Saiyan's futile attempts to defeat them. However, the amusement soon turned to cruelty when 17 showed signs of boredom.
With a quick and precise movement, Android 17 sent Trunks flying towards a nearby building with a devastating kick. The building collapsed with a crash as Trunks crashed into it, feeling the impact reverberate through every fiber of his being.
"Well, well... what do we have here?" said a familiar voice, tinged with malice, their eyes shining with wickedness as they observed Trunks struggling to get up. "You look pretty bad, don't you?"
As he recovered from the blow, he found himself face to face with the imposing figure of Dabura, the demon who served Babidi and intended to awaken Majin Buu. Trunks swallowed nervously as he faced Dabura, whose imposing presence reminded him of the dark days of the past.
"You..." Trunks began, struggling to maintain his composure under the demon's challenging gaze. "I remember... that..."
Dabura interrupted with a mocking laugh, his gaze filled with contempt towards the young Saiyan.
"I remember it too," declared Dabura in a deep and menacing voice, filling Trunks' heart with fear. "And now you're going to pay for it."
Trunks watched helplessly as Dabura directed his gaze towards a group of defenseless refugees desperately seeking to escape the chaos. The sinister smile on the demon's face foreshadowed a ominous fate for those innocents.
Without hesitation, Dabura raised his hand in a defiant gesture, concentrating a sphere of dark energy between his fingers. Trunks felt a chill run down his spine as he saw the malice in the demon's eyes as he prepared his attack.
"DO NOT DARE!" Trunks shouted with all the strength he could muster, his voice resonating in the desolation of the destroyed city.
Dabura was momentarily surprised, his eyes widening for a moment at the determination on the young Saiyan's face, despite the evident wounds and the pain he must surely be enduring. It was clear that Trunks' bravery had managed to capture his attention, at least for a brief moment, before his expression returned to a sinister smile.
"Stop me then," challenged the demon, intensifying the power in his attack, "if you can, of course."
Trunks' gaze clouded with anguish as he watched Dabura, whose sinister smile was illuminated by the reflection of the eerie and depressing atmosphere. The cries of the refugees were not long in coming, as if it were a cacophony of despair that slowly eroded the will of the young Saiyan.
Succumbing to despair, Trunks tried to muster his strength to stop the carnage, but his exhausted body could barely keep him standing. Every fiber of his being clamored to act, but his muscles for some reason refused to respond.
"Please... don't do this... I beg you," Trunks muttered through gritted teeth, his voice sounding like a drowned whisper amidst the chaos surrounding him.
The plea barely managed to elicit a mocking laugh from the demon, who never imagined that the individual in front of him could be so pathetic.
"Oh, what's the matter? Can't you stop me, Trunks? Have you become so weak?"
Dabura, observing the agony in Trunks' eyes, cruelly taunted his helplessness. With a disdainful gesture, the demon unleashed a powerful attack of dark energy, directed straight towards the defenseless refugees.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Tears sprang from Trunks' eyes as he watched helplessly the smoking hole, where just moments ago there had been a bustling and vibrant neighborhood. Now, only rubble and the sinister echo of disaster remained. Desolation loomed over him, enveloping him in a cloak of despair and sadness. It felt as if a void had opened in his chest, an overwhelming sense of loss that left him breathless. In that moment, he felt more alone and vulnerable than ever, trapped in a nightmare from which there seemed to be no escape.
"What a shame, your efforts were in vain," said Dabura with disdain, his voice resonating with a tone of superiority. "They died because you were weak. It's your fault!"
Dabura's words hit Trunks like a punch to the stomach. That final failure completely overwhelmed him, and his conscience was plagued by guilt and remorse, remembering every anguished face he couldn't protect. The feeling of helplessness consumed him, fueling his anger and pain.
"Bastard..." Trunks muttered, feeling the weight of his failures on his shoulders. "I won't forgive you, I'll never forgive you!"
Trunks, consumed by fury and despair, lunged at Dabura with all his might, his fists enveloped in searing energy. However, his blows seemed to barely graze the demon, who remained impassive in the face of the attack. A mocking laugh escaped Dabura's lips as he dodged each blow with an almost insulting grace.
"No matter how hard you try, Trunks," Dabura said mockingly, his voice echoing in the darkness of the nightmare. "Your efforts are futile. You're weak, pathetic. You can't do anything."
!
Trunks screamed in frustration, feeling the impotence consuming him. Every failed blow, every mocking laugh from his enemy, fueled his rage and desperation. But no matter how hard he fought, he seemed unable to harm Dabura, whose presence loomed over him like an ominous shadow.
Trunks watched in horror as Dabura directed a powerful energy attack directly towards him. In a desperate attempt to avoid the attack, Trunks tried to dodge it, but he was hit head-on by the force of the attack and was thrown backwards, right towards the shelter where the resistance members led by Mai were.
Time seemed to slow down as Trunks plummeted towards the ground, his heart pounding with fear and determination. His hands instinctively grasped for anything that could stop his fall, but it was in vain. The shelter loomed dangerously closer as Trunks hurtled towards it, unable to do anything to stop his course.
With a deafening blast, Trunks crashed through the roof of the shelter and fell inside, the impact shaking the ground and raising a cloud of debris and dust around him. The members of the resistance inside screamed in surprise and fear as Trunks lay on the ground, wounded and stunned by the explosion.
And to his horror, there was someone waiting for him.
"You again, Saiyan?" asked a figure identical to Goku, "You're worse than a cockroach."
"Black," Trunks murmured, terrified and unable to stand up.
Trunks felt a chill run down his spine as he recognized the man before him. It was Black, a living nightmare that had haunted his dreams and days for far too long. The mere presence of this being stirred a deep fear and burning anger in Trunks.
Black smiled maliciously, his eyes gleaming with a mix of amusement and cruelty.
"I remember what you did to me," the man in question would say, "and now I will repay the favor."
With a sadistic smile on his face, Black took advantage of Trunks' vulnerability and launched a quick attack, piercing the young Saiyan's leg with ruthless precision. Trunks screamed in pain as he felt the sharp agony coursing through his body, momentarily paralyzing him and leaving him defenseless against his enemy.
"Do you feel impotence, pain, despair?" asked the crazed black-haired man as he mercilessly attacked the warrior from the future. "TELL ME, WHAT DO YOU FEEL?!"
The impact of the attack left him lying on the ground, unable to move due to the intense pain and severity of the wound. Trunks gritted his teeth with determination, fighting to maintain his composure despite the overwhelming suffering.
Black, with a twisted smile on his face, slowly approached Trunks, savoring every moment of his suffering. With a quick and precise movement, he raised his arm and pierced Trunks' arm with a laser beam, causing him to scream in pain and writhing on the ground. The intense burning sensation ran through Trunks' body as the wound opened, releasing a stream of blood that stained the shelter floor.
Trunks, clutching his wounded arm, struggled to maintain his composure as the pain consumed him. His breathing became erratic and his hands trembled with agony. Despite his efforts to resist, he felt increasingly weaker and vulnerable to his ruthless enemy.
Black, watching with satisfaction as Trunks writhed in anguish, cruelly mocked him.
"Does it hurt?" he asked mockingly, enjoying the suffering of others. "Pain can be addictive, don't you think?"
Trunks, with gritted teeth and eyes filled with determination, struggles to find a way to counter Black's attack and protect the defenseless members of the resistance trapped in the shelter.
Black leans towards Trunks, a sadistic smile on his face, as he looks down at the pain-stricken expression on the young Saiyan's face. With a tone full of mockery, he addresses him with a rhetorical question:
"What are you looking at, Saiyan? Do you expect someone to come and save you?"
In a gut-wrenching twist, Trunks finds himself completely overwhelmed by Black, whose presence emanates an aura of darkness and ruthless cruelty. The young Saiyan fights with all his might, but it's as if he's facing an unstoppable force, a shadow slowly consuming him.
Each blow from Black is torture, each attack a stab at Trunks' soul. Pain becomes his constant companion, enveloping him in unbearable agony. Despite his efforts to resist.
With one last breath, Trunks tries to summon all his power, but to no avail. Black completely dominates him, his attacks swift and precise, shattering any attempt at resistance.
"Look at yourself, you failed loser... you were always a poor excuse for a warrior."
Barely clinging to consciousness, Trunks managed to open his eyelids with difficulty. His vision was blurry and unfocused, but he could make out a female figure beside him. The voice of Android 18 echoed softly in his ears, like a distant echo slowly gaining clarity in his mind clouded by pain and confusion.
"Always showing your most pathetic side," added 17, who stood right beside the girl. "This has stopped being fun, it's depressing…"
"Always so weak, always so useless," continued 18 sarcastically. "You disgust me."
18's voice resonated in Trunks' mind, engulfing him in a spiral of doubts and self-recriminations. Every word spoken by her seemed to pierce his spirit, weakening his determination and sowing the seed of doubt in his tormented mind. For a fleeting moment, his confidence vanished like mist at dawn, leaving behind a haunting void inside him.
"Shut up!" Trunks yelled in desperation, struggling to maintain his composure as 18's words mercilessly attacked him.
Dabura's presence adds to the ominous figure of Black and the androids, enveloping Trunks in a sense of oppression and despair. The atmosphere becomes even darker with the arrival of the demon, whose gaze full of malice seems to pierce the young Saiyan's soul.
"Your existence is a waste," declares Dabura with a grave and sinister voice, his tone resonating in the air like an echo of condemnation. His words, filled with contempt and disdain, seem to cast an even darker shadow over Trunks' heart, reminding him of the magnitude of his failure and his helplessness against the enemies surrounding him. "You don't deserve to live."
Trunks, overwhelmed by the pressure of the situation, struggles to maintain his composure in the face of his adversaries' scornful words. Despite the fear and uncertainty that overwhelm him, his determination still burns deep within him, fueling his resistance against the tide of despair threatening to engulf him.
The sky seems to tear apart as thousands of lightning bolts illuminate the horizons, turning the night into a spectacle of light and darkness. The deafening sound of thunder reverberates in the air, creating an atmosphere of terror and despair. Suddenly, amidst the chaos and the storm, an imposing figure slowly emerges. The supreme deity of the twelve universes, surrounded by an aura of indescribable power that seems to distort space around him.
Zeno-sama.
His presence is overwhelming, his gaze seeming to pierce Trunks' soul with a cold and ruthless disdain. Lightning dances around him, illuminating his face with intermittent flashes that reveal an expression of absolute indifference towards the fate of mortals. It's as if the very universe trembles in his presence, fearful of the wrath of this capricious deity.
Zeno-sama rises above all as if he were about to pass judgment, as if he were taking the honors of being judge and executioner. His eyes emit an intense and menacing gleam, while his voice resonates in Trunks' mind with a tone that chills the blood and envelops the surroundings in an aura of solemnity and fear.
"This is a universe not worth saving," he declares, his voice, despite its high pitch, resonates like absolute authority, his words carrying the promise of imminent destruction and devastation. "I will annihilate them all."
The macabre sentence was pronounced. The mere mention of the word "annihilate" sends shivers down the spine of Trunks and his enemies alike. The presence of the supreme being is overwhelming, his palpable divine power in the air as he contemplates the fate of a universe plunged into darkness and despair. Each of his words resounds like thunder in the minds of those who hear them, marking the beginning of the end for those who defy his will.
For Trunks, the appearance of Zeno-sama is like a devastating blow, a confirmation that his struggle has been in vain and that everything will be consigned to oblivion. The presence of the supreme being overwhelms him, reminding him of his own insignificance compared to the cosmic power that now judges his destiny. In his gaze, Trunks can perceive the inevitability of divine judgment and the weight of the sentence looming over him and his universe.
It was then that Zeno-sama unleashed a dazzling flash of light that enveloped Trunks and his enemies. In an instant, they are consumed by the radiant divine energy, their forms slowly disappearing into the brilliance, dissipating into nothingness.
*Flashback end*
The cold night wind caresses his face with a chilling touch as Trunks stands on the quiet rooftop of the hospital. Each gust seems to carry mysterious whispers from the void itself, mingling with the murky thoughts clouding his mind.
The recent nightmare still echoes in his head, leaving a trail of sadness and confusion in his heart. The stars, like lanterns in the sky, illuminate the night sky, providing a contrast between the darkness of the night and the clarity of his thoughts. Trunks, lost in a sea of emotions, gazes at the horizon with empty eyes, as if hoping for an answer from the universe.
The stillness of the night envelops him, offering a moment of peace amidst the chaos that has surrounded him lately. However, the feeling of unease persists within him, like a shadow clinging to his spirit.
The memory of Zeno-sama annihilating his universe remains fresh in his mind, reminding him of the fragility of his existence or, perhaps, his subconscious blaming him for how useless he was in that battle. Was it a message, a warning, or simply a dream generated by his troubled mind? Trunks cannot be sure, but the feeling that something momentous is at stake continues to haunt him, like a persistent shadow clinging to his soul and pushing him into an abyss of doubts and fears.
His mind was in chaos; he still couldn't assimilate the idea that his world no longer existed. How could it be possible? Had he committed such an unforgivable sin that his punishment was the annihilation of his entire universe? The questions echoed in his head, with no answers to calm his anguish or explain why his world suffered such an ominous and bitter end.
Suddenly, a familiar presence manifests itself at his side, interrupting the silence of the night and his thoughts. Trunks slowly turns towards the figure standing at the rooftop door of the hospital.
"Mai," Trunks whispers softly.
The young woman in question stands at the entrance, watching him with a melancholic gaze.
"It's past midnight already," Mai says, approaching Trunks with slow steps. "Are you okay?"
Trunks lowers his gaze, feeling a lump in his throat, overwhelmed by a sense of unworthiness that prevents him from meeting his companion and friend's eyes.
"I haven't been able to sleep," he confesses in a subdued tone.
Mai stops a few steps away from Trunks, sensing the heaviness in the atmosphere surrounding the young Saiyan. Her heart tightens at seeing him in such a somber mood.
"I'm sorry, Trunks," Mai says with compassion, reaching out her hand to him as a gesture of support. "I know this has been hard for you."
For a brief moment, Trunks feels his legs give way under the weight of the emotional burden that overwhelms him. A sense of weakness overtakes him, causing him to sway slightly. Mai, sensing his distress, quickly moves closer to offer support, extending her arms in a comforting gesture towards her friend, ready to embrace him and offer solace.
Mai, noticing Trunks' sobs, feels a lump in her throat. Unable to contain the pain she has carried within for decades, she presses her lips tightly together, as those feelings also flood her. It's as if a current of shared emotions flows between them, creating a bond of understanding and solidarity amidst the desolation.
"We lost everything..." Trunks whispers through sobs, his voice broken by the pain of loss. "Our home... our people..."
Mai can barely hold herself together against the torrent of emotions engulfing her. Her own tears begin to flow, mingling with Trunks' as she struggles to find the right words to comfort him.
"I know, Trunks..." Mai whispers with a trembling voice, struggling to contain the sob that threatens to escape. "I know..."
Trunks' body trembles violently, his sobs intensify, and his breathing becomes erratic as he clings tighter to Mai. Agonized screams escape his lips as the pain consumes him completely. Mai, understanding better than anyone the torment her friend is experiencing, begins to feel the same. For both of them, the pain of loss is too great, an open wound that seems to have no end. In this shared embrace, they find a glimmer of comfort amidst the despair and pain.
Both are immersed in a sea of overwhelming emotions, letting the tears flow freely as they share the weight of their grief in an embrace that offers a momentary refuge. Mai feels her heart breaking at Trunks' suffering, recognizing the depth of her own pain in the reflection of the young Saiyan's eyes. It's as if their souls are intertwined in shared grief, finding solace in each other's presence amidst the tragedy that surrounds them.
"We'll get through this together," Mai whispers softly, her breath brushing against her friend's skin as she holds him tightly. "I won't leave you... alone."
Trunks nods gratefully. Despite the momentary solace they find in the shared embrace, Trunks couldn't help but let a dark thought seep into his mind...
What if he lost Mai too?
The idea of facing an uncertain future without his friend and companion fills him with fear and anxiety, as if an abyss were opening before him, threatening to engulf him completely.
Mai, unaware of Trunks' internal torments, continues to embrace him tenderly, sharing his pain and offering unwavering support. However, Trunks can't help but feel a growing fear that grips his heart, reminding him of how fragile his existence is and how uncertain his future is.
Although the promise that they are together in this is encouraging, Trunks can't ignore that detail, that in this universe, it decides to take Mai. The idea of losing the only person who had stood by his side through all adversities was too painful to contemplate.
With a sigh filled with anguish, Trunks holds onto Mai tighter, as if fearing she would disappear at any moment if he let go. In that embrace, there was a silent desire to protect her from any danger, to keep her safe by his side forever. However, he knew that destiny was uncertain and that he couldn't control what would happen in the future.
"I think we should go back," Mai said to Trunks, gently releasing him as she wiped away her friend's tears with the sleeves of her medical gown. "We have to go back or Doctor Abbader will get angry with us."
"You're right," he said, his voice marked with sadness.
Once their emotions had calmed down, he cautiously stood up, gradually regaining his composure, before following Mai back inside the hospital.
Doctor Abbader watched the entire scene from one of the corners of the rooftop, staying hidden thanks to a camouflage spell. With a look full of empathy, he witnessed how deeply affected these two young people were by the experience they had lived. A heavy sigh escaped his lips as he realized the state of his patient. He knew that Trunks' mind was fractured by the trauma he had experienced. Although expressing his emotions could be a step towards healing, it was also a reminder of how much he still needed support and care.
With a compassionate look, Doctor Abbader decided to give them their space, recognizing the importance of allowing them to process their emotions at their own pace. He watched as both entered the hospital to head to their rooms in an attempt to find comfort in sleep. Once he made sure they were on their way, he decided to enter his office to address an issue that deeply concerned him with the maos.
Kokabiel was in his youngest daughter's territory.
# # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # #
After the call, Issei and Kiba agreed to meet in a neutral and discreet location to discuss the details of the situation. They decided to meet at a nearby park, where a beautiful fountain would provide a calm atmosphere for their conversation.
Calm… sure…
"To be honest, I feel dissatisfied when both guardians of the Excaliburs give me permission to destroy them," Kiba continued, displaying his dissatisfaction.
"That's a crude way to speak," Xenovia retorted in a coarse tone, displaying the hilt of Excalibur Destruction. "If you were a renegade demon, I would have killed you without wasting time."
Kiba and Xenovia faced each other with piercing gazes, each showing a determination that seemed to challenge the other. Their eyes sparkled with an intensity that reflected the palpable tension between them. The air was charged with an atmosphere of challenge and rivalry as their words resonated in the space between them, creating a tense and expectant atmosphere. At that moment, it was evident that the situation could easily escalate into a more serious conflict if either of them didn't back down.
"I suppose so..."
Kiba manifested the magical seal to summon his swords and confront the priestess, as doing so was a clear challenge, reflecting his willingness to fight. However, before the confrontation could escalate, Issei stepped between the two swordsmen, seeking to calm the situation and avoid unnecessary conflict.
"Wait a moment," Issei intervened, his voice firm but calm. "We're not here to fight."
Xenovia, taking note of Issei's words, decided to sheathe her sword, showing a willingness to listen and find a peaceful solution.
Kiba manifested the magical seal to summon his swords, an unequivocal demonstration of his challenge to the priestess. His determination was palpable in every move, reflecting his willingness to face Xenovia without hesitation. However, before the confrontation could intensify, Issei stepped between the two swordsmen. With calm gestures and reassuring words, he sought to dissipate the tension and avoid unnecessary confrontation.
"I understand that you harbor resentment towards the Holy Sword project," Xenovia mentioned, sheathing her sword. "That incident is categorized as the biggest one within the organization."
Kiba looked at Xenovia with a more relaxed gesture, although he still showed some distrust. Slowly, he stopped manifesting the magic circle, recognizing the logic in Issei's words and what Xenovia had previously declared. Although still filled with resentment, he understood the importance of setting aside differences for the common good. With a resigned sigh, he nodded in agreement, willing to listen to what the others had to say.
"And it also became one of the worst cases within our environment, and people were disgusted by it," Xenovia cleared her throat a bit to continue the conversation. "The person in charge of that project at that time is said to have an issue with his beliefs. He was accused of heresy and is now on the side of the fallen angels."
Kiba showed interest in this new information.
"On the side of the fallen angels? What's the name of that person?" Kiba's voice resonated with a hint of surprise and determination as he directed the question to Xenovia.
"Valper Galilei... the Genocidal Archbishop," Xenovia replied solemnly, observing Kiba's reaction.
Kiba's eyes gleamed with a new determination, his mind processing the name of the newly revealed enemy. The revelation provided him with a concrete target, a clear direction in his fight. Now more than ever, he was determined to confront Valper Galilei and stop his evil plan.
"So it seems I have to share information as well. The other day, I was attacked by someone who had an Excalibur. At that moment, he killed a priest. The one who was murdered was probably from your organization."
Kiba's revelation left the whole group dumbfounded. Surprise was reflected on their faces as they tried to process the new information. How could it be that Kiba had been involved in all this from before? Questions arose in their minds, questions that sought answers about the reason for his silence until now. Undoubtedly, there was something more behind all this, something that Kiba had not yet shared and that could be crucial to understanding the situation they were in.
"The name of that person is Freed Sellzen. Does that name ring a bell to you?" Kiba announced, capturing everyone's attention.
The name echoed in Xenovia and Irina's minds, awakening memories of a turbulent past.
"I see. So it's him," Xenovia murmured, recognizing the connection.
Freed Zellzen. The former Vatican exorcist. A prodigy who became an exorcist at the tender age of 13. He had an impressive list of achievements due to his ability to exterminate demons and mythical beasts. However, his career was tarnished by his erratic behavior and obsession with battle. Despite his abilities, his lack of belief in God and his obsessive focus on violence eventually led him down the path of heresy.
Or at least that's how he was remembered by church members.
"So Freed uses a stolen Excalibur to kill our comrades..."
Xenovia expressed her hatred vehemently as she remembered Freed's crimes. The mention that he used a stolen Excalibur to end the lives of their fellow followers ignited a deep fury within her. It was evident that Freed was a subject despised by many people, and she was no exception.
"If that's the case, then we should discuss the details to work together.
Both groups immersed themselves in an intense discussion, deliberating on the details of their plan to confront Freed Zellzen and recover the stolen Excalibur. Various strategies and approaches were considered, each contributing their own ideas and suggestions to address the situation most effectively. Possible locations where Freed could be hiding were discussed, as well as an evaluation of the skills and resources of each member to face the former Vatican exorcist and his followers.
Contingency plans were drawn up, and specific roles were assigned to each team member, making the most of their individual skills and combat experience.
Finally, after several minutes of intense discussion and meticulous planning, both groups had the course of action ready to go. With a detailed plan in place and renewed determination, they prepared to face Freed Zellzen and deliver justice for those who had been victims of his heinous crimes.
"It's settled," Xenovia said, taking out her cellphone to coordinate with Kiba, Issei, and Koneko. "If anything relevant comes up, call this number."
"Understood," Issei nodded.
"By the way, before I go, I'd like to thank you for your gesture towards us. I have something that might interest you."
Issei became immediately interested, although his perverted mind briefly suggested the possibility of Xenovia showing her breasts, which he considered absurd given her rough character and lack of social skills. But dreaming didn't hurt; however, aware of the urgency of the situation, he decided to set aside those thoughts and focus on what Xenovia had to offer.
"Before traveling to Japan, I overheard my superiors discussing something relevant that happened in the underworld. I'm not aware of the details, and it may even seem absurd, but I think it's important that you know," Xenovia said, adopting a serious tone. "It's said that a mysterious individual arrived in the underworld, as if coming from another dimension or plane, and with his arrival, he caused the skies to split and unleashed a cataclysm of biblical proportions. The church faction is seriously considering investigating this event further, and likely, the other factions will want to do the same."
The silence that followed her statement was overwhelming, each one processing the information with surprise and bewilderment. The idea of such a monumental event and its possible implications left everyone pondering what this could mean for the future.
Upon receiving the news from Xenovia, Issei felt as if the ground had collapsed beneath his feet, dismay engulfing him. The idea of such a monumental and mysterious event as the arrival of a being from another dimension left him perplexed, wondering if this was something too bad to judge by the tone in which Xenovia told it. What consequences could it have for their world and for themselves? Slowly, a sense of unease was taking hold of him.
"As I mentioned before, I don't know the details, but I think it would be best if you inform your mistress about this as soon as possible."
End of the chapter.
Clarifications
(1) Issei always has those thoughts; every woman with enormous breasts who promises him a reward or compensation automatically triggers his first thought to be that.
I hope you enjoyed the chapter. With nothing else to say, I bid you farewell, and see you in the next one."