While the Espada were settling into the Dragon Kingdom, Aizen was quite busy on the island. Having gone through a brief tour of it in order to get a better understanding of the situation, he was more than ready to have a meeting with Cthalpi, Eilyte, and the Deep One Priest.
Said meeting had now reached the point where Aizen put forth what he was willing to offer, and have happen for an alliance to be possible. Having said his peace, he could only wait for the other side to give their opinions, so they could reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Needless to say, some reactions were better than others...
"Nonsense!" Queen Eilyte roared, slamming the table with her fist.
"Behave yourself." The Deep One Priest coolly growled.
"Do you agree with this!? He has no right to come here and start saying anything! This is our island, and he is but an outsider. He has no right to be here, let alone insult us." She spat back derisively.
The Priest fell into silence. He did not want to openly agree with her, even if he did so to a certain extent. He was not one to go against his god's instructions, but as he looked to his side to see Cthalpi in her human form, and to her side Eilyte, he wondered why this was happening. He wondered why Cthalpi had agreed to this. Surely this man was not that much of a threat to justify this situation.
No, that was not the right way to think of it. As he looked upon Cthalpi's now human features, he saw expressions he had never seen before. This alone told him that this situation was worth the effort she had put into it. He had wanted to question her about this. He had even considered questioning her way of handling the situation all together, but he could not do it. Since his creation he was never able to openly question her.
"Be silent. You are far too ignorant to know what you are talking about." He said, not bothering to look at the Queen.
"What did you say!?" Eilyte growled as she got up.
"I don't want the two of you to fight. Sit down, Eilyte." Cthalpi said in a calm and somewhat motherly tone, which the Queen agreed to even if reluctantly.
"I-I simply meant that he is an outsider, and a male. We have been doing just fine without their influence." She pointed out in a more tactful tone.
Eilyte simply did not understand what was going on. He was strong, yes. That much she was able to tell for herself. But surely not worthy of such treatment, especially in the presence of Cthalpi herself. Her eyes went to the Priest, seeing him seemingly in deep thought, which further led to her confusion and anger. She had never seen him like this. Why was he overreacting? Did he not understand that this Aizen was surely nothing when compared to their god?
"T-Then, let's further discuss those pillars you suggested. You said that they will hide the island just like it was before?" The Priest asked in a reticent tone.
"Correct. Four pillars, each placed in one of the cardinal points. Together they will be used to conceal the island using a spell to mimic the one that was used before. These pillars will be self-sufficient, with no need to have someone actively maintaining them. Naturally, they too will also be hidden by the spell itself." Aizen calmly and smoothly replied.
The Priest went into deep silence, as he began to once more ponder on the offer, something that got Eilyte's attention as she raised an eyebrow at him, wondering if he was actually going to go along with what this man was saying.
"You've got to be kidding me." She hissed in a grousing tone.
"Be silent." The Priest commanded, raising a hand to her.
"Don't you dare silence me! Why do you care about the pillars to begin with? We don't need them. We already have…" Eilyte began, when he curtly then spoke over her.
"Exactly. With them there is no further need to put such a burden on our lord." He argued matter-of-factly.
Aizen was quick to pick up on the effects this had on the two women. While Eilyte continued to be hostile, he saw a small and momentarily change in Cthalpi's expression. It showed a certain sense of pride and happiness, along with hints of longing and regret.
"You dare insult our god?" Eilyte balefully asked, her expression turning more serious.
"I did no such thing. As a proper follower of Cthalpi, it would be wrong of me to overlook our god's well-being. The pillars are to her benefit, as much as it is to the island."
"Then, you are fine with reducing the number of people we bring in? How are you planning to maintain your numbers without them?" The Queen argued, baffled by the Priest's continued openness to cooperation.
"We still have the 'Deep Dive' ritual, along with my kind's longevity and resilience. We can handle a lowered number of humans coming in. Especially when he offered a way to help us maintain the Dark Young without the need of human sacrifices to begin with."
"You hypocrite! I..." Eilyte vehemently went to say, when Cthalpi spoke over her.
"Eilyte, that's enough. Now is not the time for you to act like this. You are the Queen of this island. Act like it." Her god and ancestor firmly remarked.
Eilyte gritted her teeth, completely livid, even with her god's words. Why was this happening? Why didn't they understand that this man was, pure and simply, scum? He had dared to stand up to her, to humiliate her, and they failed to see that he was not someone to be talked to, but something to be killed. To be punished...
"N-No!" Eilyte shouted, before she could control herself.
Cthalpi was silent, showing a few signs of surprise, while the Priest was quick to act upon this obvious showing of disrespect towards Cthalpi. As he got up, he raised a hand towards her, preparing to cast a spell in retaliation.
"Ronni, that's enough." Cthalpi sternly commanded, freezing both individuals.
Aizen found this development to be very interesting, as he never saw the Deep One Priest being referred to by any kind of proper name. Yet he reacted to it as one would react when called to by their name. The Priest's raised hand lowered, as he let out a sardonic grunt towards Eilyte before going back into his seat.
"Isn't he the enemy? He came here and began to make demands, even threatening me. And now we are sitting here listening, and even considering, what he has to say? Shouldn't we get rid of him, and those he brought with him?" Eilyte spat in indignation.
"That is not an option." Cthalpi declared in a low decisive tone.
Eilyte was left dumbfounded by this, was she meant to believe that this man, this outsider, stood at the same ground, or even higher, then their god Cthalpi?
"B-But you are a god…" She began, but Cthalpi was quick to speak over her.
"Correct. I am 'a' god. There are other individuals like me, and there even those who stand above me. Before us now is one of said individuals. If you force a conflict, I would simply be no match for him."
The Queen could only gulp and grow pale as those words began to sink in. Looking at the Priest she saw a certain look of forced acceptance of this fact, despite his inhuman features. Doing this herself, she allowed another part of her to fill her mind. The one that wanted to prove herself as queen, to make those that came before proud, to make her people see worth in her, and to make Cthalpi proud. She swallowed her pride, made herself presentable as a Queen should, lowered her head in such a way her hair hid her eyes and finally spoke to Cthalpi.
"Ahem... V-Very well…" She began, now in a much calmer and proper manner.
"I agree with reducing the number of ships we take. As long as you understand, that we need the men on those ships, so it only makes sense that we choose which ships to go after." Eilyte added in a more composed manner.
"I understand they are important. However, from what I've seen, if you were able and willing to take better care of them, the men you have could last much longer." Aizen calmly argued.
"Well, it's not my fault they are so weak…" She groused, giving Cthalpi a quick glace before continuing.
"…But I'll see what can be done. That aside, I... I see no problems with those Pillars, or you helping in maintaining the Dark Young. Now, when it comes to this 'alliance', I also agree. If your goal is to help us survive, I won't stop you, and I don't mind us giving you something in return. However, when the time comes, I have final say to what you want or not."
"That is only fair." Aizen smoothly said.
"In that case, for the time being, I agree to this alliance."
"Wisely done." Cthalpi said with a low and approving tone.
"I also agree." The Priest promptly added.
"You will not regret it. I can assure you." Aizen said with a pleasing smile.
"Then, when will we see any of these things you promised us?" Eilyte asked in a somewhat skeptical tone.
"In a few days. It will still take some time before everything is ready. When they are, a team will arrive to put everything in place, and said team will remain here in my stead. Agreed?"
"Very well." Eilyte replied in a neutral tone.
"I take it they are trustworthy?" The Priest plainly asked.
"Of course. All of my servants are loyal, even if their personality may make you think otherwise."
"Now that we have come to an agreement, you are both dismissed." Cthalpi announced.
At this both Eilyte and the Priest got back to their feet, and gave their god a deep bow before leaving. Meaning that once more Aizen and Cthalpi were left alone.
"I decided to discuss this without them here, since I think it would be easier to explain to them later. So, you want me to go and see the outside world?" Cthalpi asked in uncertainty.
"Correct. It doesn't need to be right away, but it would be beneficial for you, and would lead your followers to think of doing the same. After all, isn't the goal to put an end to this island's isolation?"
"Are the people that you will leave here truly trustworthy?" She asked in concern.
"They will play their part in making this as smooth and seamless as possible. However, you also need to play your part. It will be much easier to make things happen if you lead them by example."
Cthalpi gave him a rather annoyed look, as he once more brought into the conversation her lack of an active role in the ruling of the island. Something that had contributed greatly to its current condition. Of course, she had been aware of this for a while, but still she did not appreciate others bringing it up when she had already given it a great deal of thought.
"I suppose I will take your word for it. Still, you will understand if I may find them lacking if something does go wrong." She bluntly pointed out.
"Of course."
"Good. Then you will also understand that I cannot leave right away. I need some time to make sure the island will be alright without me."
"Agreed. I will communicate with you not long after I arrive back on the mainland, and get a few things in order."
"Very well. Then let us go and begin to make the arrangements." Cthalpi suggested.
"Speaking of which I find the name you gave the Deep One Priest very interesting." Aizen remarked.
At the sound of his words Cthalpi, who was already in the process of getting back up, stopped moving, tilting her head slightly to the side, before giving Aizen a smile. Like one would give a child whom had just said something foolish before speaking in an amused tone.
"What do you mean? I didn't name him. That's his name."
"He named himself?"
"Not exactly... Ronni is his name from when he was human. After I transformed him, I simply couldn't stop calling him Ronni. There is still part of him left after all. It would be wrong to call him something else." Cthalpi ruefully stated.
Taking this information in, Aizen began to make sense of the situation. How there seemed to be something more between them. Especially from Cthalpi's side.
"Then I take it he meant a lot to you?" Aizen asked, causing Cthalpi to sigh wistfully.
"Indeed. I love him dearly, even now. So much so that while human he was the father of the island's first queen. But now? Well... our relationship couldn't continue as it was."
"Is this the case for the other two beings that guard you?" Aizen asked, to which she simply nodded.
"Then why doesn't the rest of the island refer to them by name?"
"I'm not entirely sure, but I think they ended up believing that those were holy names, meant only for me to use." Cthalpi replied matter-of-factly.
"I see... That aside, I am also curious how you were able to conceive a child with a human. Given your nature." Aizen pointed out in curiosity.
"Oh? Teehehe. This body has many advantages to it.~" Cthalpi remarked with a small chuckle, as she playfully spun around.
Back in the Dragon Kingdom, the morning after the Espada cleared the pass of undead, a group composed of Crystal Tear, the Theocracy warrior Labrax, some adventurers, workers, and some soldiers were undertaking a mission to take out a beastman camp responsible for attacking several convoys of supplies and people called in to help in the fight.
The camp in question was rather sizable, being composed of several tents, and a large wooden barrier surrounding it, made of several trees the beastmen had cut down, and positioned in such a way to form a wall. It was placed near a river, which was used as a stable source of water for all their needs, while its surroundings was mostly forest.
The plan was simple: four of the five members of Crystal Tear, including Cerabrate, would use themselves as bait for the strongest individuals in the camp, while the rest of the group would approach the camp from upstream so their scents wouldn't be picked up by the beastmen, along with the sound of the wind, and rushing water to muffle the sound of their approach. Some doubted that it would work, but considering Cerabrate and his team were notorious among the beastmen at this point, it was reasonable to assume that a prideful Alpha wanting to carve out a reputation with their hides would take the bait.
Leading the larger group with Labrax, was Emma. She was an elf, and was the newest member of Crystal Tear. She had long, bright silver hair, which was held in a pony tail. Her body was lean and very athletic, and as a scout/ranger, she wore very light armor, with protective guards on her forearms, elbows, shins, and knees, along with a hooded cloak. However, the most interesting characteristic was the dark green cloth she had placed around her head, which worked as a blindfold, effectively blinding her. This was not an issue, since her other senses were already incredibly heightened. Even more so after her body began to compensate for her covered eyes.
This meant that she was still more than able to work as a scout, ranger, and even a sniper. Although, despite some thinking she was blind, she was known to uncover at least one eye when the environment did not allow her other senses and abilities to accurately detect her target. Leading some to wonder why she even needed to cover her eyes. Moreover, she also possessed a [Talent], which some called [Lingua Franca]. This allowed her to communicate with several types of animals, and use them as extra sets of eyes when needed.
Making her way through the forest, she served as the group's guide using her abilities to find the best possible path, and ways to move through it. As she stopped atop a tree, pausing to take in her surroundings, along with using her [Talent] to scan the camp, Emma felt a hand fall on her shoulder, causing her to silently yelp as her attention went to the new arrival.
This hand belonged to Labrax Vega Belenus, the old warrior from the Theocracy. He was wearing relatively light armor made of mythril, which allowed for decent protection along with good mobility, along with a hood and face mask. While she would never say it, he unnerved her. Not only because of the fact he came from the Theocracy, but from the fact that he was able to so easily sneak up on her.
That along with the fact that when he did so, he always seemed to be surrounded by some strange aura, and it was like he was not the only one there. How he was able to do this, she did not understand, as from what she had seen so far he wasn't a stealth based individual. He was a killer. A manic who relished in cutting down enemies, and terrifying them, as a form to worship his god. However, she had heard from some people, that this ability came from his own [Talent]. However, what it was no one really knew.
"So, when can we act?" Labrax asked with a small yawn.
"You have to wait for Cerabrate and the rest to act." Emma replied in a low tone.
"What a pain." The older looking fighter sighed.
"I thought humans were meant to be wise and patient at your age." The elf pointed out, with clear annoyance.
"Heh. I've been patient for long enough at this point. I didn't come on this mission to sneak around." Labrax chuckled.
"And you will get your moment eventually. We all agreed that you could do as you wished when the time comes."
"Can't wait." He chortled, allowing his body to fall down from the tree.
In the camp, a trio of beastmen were currently talking around a campfire. These were the three in charge of the rest, but even among these three only one of them truly stood at the top. This beastman was named Toa. He was a massive bear-type beastman, well-known as the son of Tomo. While large he was still small when compared to his father, with his fur was also darker than Tomo's, showing his younger age.
To his right was Io, a female cheetah-type beastman, with a thin and lean body perfectly built for speed. To his left was Han, an older hippopotamus-type beastman. He wasn't as tall as Toa, but was considerably bulkier, with a numerous amount of scars covering his thick hide.
"Toa, let's go inside~" Io suggested with a mischievous purr.
"Now's not the time." Toa growled.
"But you always say that, and the time never comes." She pouted as her tailed swished from side to side.
"Drop it, Io. You're not his type. You too small and frail. He'd probably break you in half! Harharhar!" Han heartily laughed as he poked fun at his comrade.
"As if any female would touch you." Io spat back with a hiss.
"Hah! I'll let you know, among my people I'm seen as a fine male. Many begged me for a child." Han proclaimed proudly with a puffed out chest.
"You man-whore." The female pointed out, surprising both males.
"Hm? What's that?" Toa asked with a curious head-tilt.
"Well… I heard some humans talking about it while scouting for one of our raids. These two females were talking, referring to this male as a 'man-whore' since he mated with many females who weren't his." Io replied, with a certain pride to her words.
"I-I see." Toa remarked, as he scratched the back of his head.
"Then…" Han began, falling into silence as his mind continued to process the new information.
"…Does that mean you are a whore?" He added.
Io was silent, giving him a very thoughtful expression, as she processed what had just been told to her, until finally the answer dawned on her.
"Perhaps…" She mumbled, her ears twitching as he eyes then widened.
"W-Wait! You can call me that!" She hissed back.
"Slow, ain'cha? Harharhar!" Han laughed, as he looked to Toa.
"Look who's talking! How can you move with those legs?" Io pointed out in defense.
"Grumph! He's talking about your mind." Toa said.
"I-I know that!" She said pouting, as her tail struck the ground in annoyance.
As they spoke, someone else approached them. This was one of their scouts, with the the job of guarding the areas distant from the camp to make sure no one would come close. At least, that was Toa's idea. However, the scout that stood before them showed him that this line of defense had been broken, as the wolf-type beastman was covered in several wounds.
"Silence, both of you. What happened?" Toa asked sternly.
"W-We attacked. They are of Crystal Tear." The scout replied in a subservient manner.
"How many?" Han asked.
"Four males."
"Rowr... Finally.~ Let's kill them and put an end to this." Io suggested as she licked her fangs and stretched her limbs.
"T-They challenged you." The scout informed, looking at Toa.
"Fools!" Io laughed.
"No. They are strong. Especially the one called Cerabrate." Toa said.
"But you stronger, right? You're the son of Tomo. These humans just came here to get eaten." The female pointed out in amusement.
"We'll go with you. Put a quick end to this." Han suggested.
"No. I go alone." Toa declared, getting up from his seat.
"Don't get ahead of yourself. Going alone is foolish. You're not your father." Han frankly pointed out.
There was a sudden silence that fell upon them, as Toa and Han were bound in a serious stare down, that even left Io frozen as she calmly waited for what would come from it. After all, Toa could smash Han into pieces for this.
"Grumph! Fine. I take four with me. But you two remain here, and remain vigilant." Toa ordered as he began to walk away.
Not long after, Toa had made his way out of the camp, accompanied by four wolf-type beastmen of decent strength. They walked for some time until they arrived at their destination, coming face-to-face with Crystal Tear. In the center was Cerabrate himself, wearing his [Holy Lord's Aegis], a full-plate armor set made from a mythril-orichalcum alloy. It's enchantments grants Cerabrate protection from fatal and critical blows, and is considered to be on par with one of the five Re-Estize Kingdom's National Treasures, the [Guardian Armor]. His helm rested in his left hand, while his adamantite claymore sword rested in his right, lightly glowing with a white luminescence. Overall, he shined with a certain pure light, standing defiant against the kingdom's dark times.
To Cerabrate's right was Diogo Villa. He was slightly older than Cerabrate, with a well trained body to compensate for the usual physical weakness that comes from being a magic caster. Even one of the divine school as he was. His long, light brown hair was held in a ponytail, while his eyes were a pure tone of silver. He wore a priestly robe, which was wisely used to cover his simple armor and items hidden underneath, and in his right hand rested his mythril-silver alloy staff.
Diogo began as a simple priest in one of the Kingdom's Temples, who had healed Cerabrate at different instances throughout his career. However both were brought together by some of their common "interests". That while Cerabrate had an interest for "smaller" women, Diogo liked "smaller" men. This led to Cerabrate eventually asking him to join his adventurer group, to which Diogo accepted.
Standing slightly behind Diogo was Afonso Orbeck. The youngest member of the team. He was an arcane-type magic caster, with a lean and less well trained body than his elder Diogo. He had short cut hair that was a light chestnut color, with yellow colored eyes. He wore blue and white robes which, much like Diogo's, was used to conceal the protection items underneath.
In his right hand rested his staff which was made out of pure mythril. He had been picked up by a keenly interested Cerabrate and Diogo, a few days after he graduated as a magic caster from his tutor. Having accepted the offer to join their group, he saw it as a great way to improve himself and his skills.
Finally there was Bane, who stood to Cerabrate's left. He was the [Monk] of the group, who stood taller than the rest with a bulky and muscular body. His skin was slightly darker than the rest with a healthy tan, with black, short, and spiky hair, while his eyes were a piercing blue. On the left side of his face was a large scar, that had come from his encounter with the katana wielding beastman named, "Nato".
He wore dark gray pants, black boots, adamantite gauntlets that covered his forearms and hands, with his torso being covered by an enchanted leather garb with sown-in, enchanted mythril chainmail. He had come into the group after being found during the travels of Cerabrate and Diogo, meaning he was the second person to join after Diogo, having done so apparently after having nothing else better to do. His life before being an adventurer was spent as a wandering vagabond.
"Finally." Bane growled, unfolding his crossed arms.
"You challenged me?" Toa said, his eyes focused solely on Cerabrate.
"That's right. But I don't remember having said you could bring those four." Cerabrate remarked in a sardonic tone.
"It's only fair. When you have three others with you."
"W-What do you monsters know of fair!?" Afonso shouted in anger and disgust.
"Stay calm." Diogo firmly mumbled.
"We fightin' or not?" One of Toa's companions growled.
"Agreed. Follow me." Cerabrate said, pointing to a nearby clearing.
"Very well. You those here." Toa ordered, as he began to calmly follow Cerabrate.
As Cerabrate and Toa walked, the human put on his helm, preparing himself for the incoming fight. Toa was already physically prepared for battle, needing only to make mental preparations. Having arrived at their destination the duo placed some distance between each other, as if preparing for a proper duel.
Cerabrate raised his sword, which gave a full view of its golden handle with several different jewels decorating it. Though adamantite was typically a dark colored metal, the blade of his sword was a pure silver color, which thrummed with a charge of divine energy that was enchanted into the blade.
Suddenly, both charged at each other, with the adventurer going for a horizontal swing, which should have made for an easy hit on the larger opponent. However, Toa threw himself clean over his opponent, landing behind Cerabrate before swinging his right fist at his back to stike the adventurer. To this Cerabrate, activated [Flash Step]. This was a movement [Martial Art] that rendered [Evasion] obsolete. The user pours their warrior's spirit into their bodies, endowing themselves with speed equivalent to magical speed boosting, giving near instantaneous movement, leaving behind only streaks of light.
This allowed him to easily avoid Toa's blow, and deliver an upwards slash, which had managed to lightly slash Toa's front. Yet this only earned him a grunt, as the beastman's left palm came rushing in, landing a clean blow on Cerabrate, sending him against a tree.
Despite the attack, it didn't take Cerabrate long to get up, since his armor was more than capable in tanking the blow. However, even if that wasn't the case he had no other choice but to get back into the fight, as Toa lunged at him once more. Another left palm strike came raining down on him, which the adventurer once more was able to avoid by going to the beastman's left, resulting in Toa's claws cutting clean through the relatively thin tree. Seeing the human get away from him, Toa was also quick to act, using both hands to grab onto the damaged tree, throwing it at Cerabrate.
"Really?" The adventurer sighed as he prepared himself.
Activating [Ability Boost] and [Slash], he was able to easily bisect the improvised projectile, even if it bothered him that he needed to use [Martial Arts] for something like that. Continuing to pace around the edge of the clearing, he waited for Toa to make the next move, wanting to take advantage of his foe's next attack to find an opening. All the while Toa stood mostly still, having picked up on part of what Cerabrate was trying to do, deciding to try and avoid it, while thinking of alternative to attack.
Ultimately, Toa decided to charge in, opting to use his greater strength and size against whatever plan the adventurer might have. In response, Cerabrate took his stance and waited. He did this until Toa came in for another of his punches, which was once again avoided using [Flash Step], allowing him to get behind Toa long enough to use the combined [Ability Boost] and [Slash] on his opponent's back.
The attack as expected, managed to cut into Toa's body, leaving a rather large slash which freely spilled blood. However it did not cut as deep as Cerabrate had expected. So much so that the time he would normally waste admiring his handy work, was spent on avoiding another blow as Toa spun around. His speed so great that he had managed to grab onto the adventurer's left arm.
"You underestimate us!" Toa growled.
As he did this, his hold on Cerabrate tightened, along with his other hand curling into a fist. Knowing what was coming, the adventurer was quick to act as he called upon his [Holy Flash], which created a blinding light of divine-type magic from his blade, potent enough to momentarily stun his opponent, and even cause pain.
While this was enough to stop the incoming blow, it wasn't enough to release the hold, which Cerabrate was half-expecting. He hoped to use this as a way to slice the beast's hand off. As he prepared to do this, he found that Toa seemed to have thought of the same thing, as with a simple pull and throw, the adventurer once more found himself being sent flying into a tree.
Falling to his knees, Cerabrate let out an annoyed grunt as his mind was still on the fact his attack had only done minimal damage to Toa's back. Taking everything he had seen thus far, he was certain this was some kind of [Martial Art] like [Reinforce Hide], or even [Greater Reinforce Hide]. Most likely the second, with Toa being able to take his attack so well. His strength and high intelligence was also noteworthy.
So much so Cerabrate was certain this was the strongest beastman he had fought so far. After all, not many were able to throw him around so easily. At least not without losing a finger or two for it. It made him grin in amusement at the thought.
"Grumph! I expected more." Toa derisively remarked as he began to slowly approach.
"Heh. I'm just getting started."
Toa took his stance and once more, charged at the still kneeling Cerabrate. In reality, he was using this moment to seem weak and open to attack. He was keeping a hold on his blade, which would allow him to attack Toa at the last minute, and hopefully breaching the beast's defenses. When the creature got close to him, intending on bringing his left fist down on him, Cerabrate brought his blade upwards, having already quietly prepared [Ability Boost] and [Greater Ability Boost] beforehand. And then...
"[True Holy Strike]!"
He expected to see distress, even fear, in the creature's face, yet Toa did no such thing. Instead he maintained his fiery look, as he too called upon an attack of its own.
"[Jackhammer]!"
The blade and the fist made contact, filling the area with an explosion of light from the blade, and powerful vibrations in the air and ground that came from Toa's fist. For a moment they seemed evenly matched, which would surprise many beastmen if they were to see this exchange. It was well known among them that [Jackhammer] was invented by Tomo who was known for using it with terrifying results. Yet Toa, having learned this technique from his father, could only use a much weaker and limited version of this ability, using it in powerful blows like this, and little else.
Ultimately this led to a large blast, that upturned the ground, toppled trees, and sent both fighters in opposite directions. Cerebrate found himself falling onto several collapsed trees, his adamantite claymore having fallen somewhere to his right, while Toa was sent flying a much shorter distance, with the lower half of his left arm gone. What remained and portions of his torso were burnt from the searing light.
Letting out a low groan, Cerabrate rolled over and began to go back to his knees, with a confident smirk on his face. He had every right to feel confident, as he had finally done some real damage. Still, he was currently working through the numbness that had come about from the vibrations created by Toa's [Jackhammer].
As he cast [Lesser Heal] on himself, this effect began to wear off, and he began to search for his weapon, all the while keeping his ears on Toa's still audible and labored breathing. Finding his blade in now time at all, he turned to see the still down beastman. He approached him at a brisk pace, ready to finish off his opponent, until he was now standing to the left of Toa's head.
"Nice effort, but in the end you are just another beast." Cerabrate declared as he raised his sword.
As he was bringing it down on Toa's head, he failed to notice that the beastman had used his remaining arm to pick up a stone that had been unearthed by the impact, which he used to then throw at the adventurer's head. This distracted him for long enough to land a clean punch to his chest, sending the human onto the ground. Letting out a pain and rage filled growl, Toa rose back to his feet, stumbling slightly as he did, with his right hand holding onto his left stump.
"I am Toa! Son of Tomo, I won't be defeated by the likes of you, human!" He roared in defiance.
"[Open Wounds]!" Diogo's voice echoed through the clearing.
Right away Toa was wrapped in pain, as his wounds began to fester even further than before, as he turned around to face the divine-type magic caster, he saw Diogo standing near the opening of the clearing, along with Afonso and Bane. His attention then went to Cerabrate, and the fact that he was outnumbered and outmatched. To the point he was certain he would not live through this fight. Yet this did not mean he would give up.
He had much he wanted to do in his life, one of which being to receive his father's approval to stand atop his people, like his father did. Yet now, he could only hope to take down as many humans as he could before he died, in order to take down his people's greatest adversary on their prey's side.
"Come on! I can take all of you!" Toa declared.
Elsewhere, as soon as Cerabrate had led Toa to that clearing, Diogo had sent a password and an order via [Message] to Emma to begin the attack. The first wave was that of fire arrows, and then fire-based spells, that set both the walls and tents on fire, effectively turning the camp into a cage of heat and flames. This allowing many the of humans to enter and use this panic to their advantage.
The one taking the lead, even when the camp was still being set on fire, was Labrax, who happily made his way through the site cutting down whoever crossed his path with his cross-shaped war scythe. As he walked through the camp, he rested his scythe on his right shoulder, and on the end of his weapon Labrax had attached a small bell, which was able to activate a fear based spell when the bell made any noise.
While the bell, named [Death Knell], was able to produce a sound that affected those around him with fear, even himself or his comrades if they weren't equipped against the effect, it was heavily handicapped by the fact that anything that disrupted the sound disrupted the spell. This meant that in the current environment with panicking voices, and several other chaotic sounds surrounding him, the bell was rather useless.
Labrax's bloodlust filled rampage was put to a quick end when a sudden gust of wind rushed past him, and he realized that someone had taken his bell. Letting out a tired sigh, he turned around seeing two beastmen standing in front of him, Io and Han. In the female beastman's hand was the bell magic item.
"Rowr... Thing makes an annoying noise. Makes my fur crawl. How you use this thing?" Io growled, her eyes still on the object.
"The hood and mask, aren't just for show." Labrax pointed out in a bored tone.
"Enough, Io. We not here to talk." Han growled, preparing his war-hammer.
"True. Let's kill him.~ We can split the meat when we're done." The female chuckled, throwing the bell away.
"Cute."
This was all the two strongest beastmen had to say. With a chuckle from the old warrior, he took a stance and allowed a black colored aura to begin to envelop his body. Had he been in his prime, he might have been able to handle both on his own, but as he was now he would need to fight one at a time. He knew that wasn't happening, meaning he would have to fall back on to his [Talent].
"Kill him!" Han ordered, as his instincts picking up on something incredibly dangerous.
"Try your best. [Come Forth: Ongyo-Ki]!" Labrax declared, as the blackened aura expanded in every direction...
Emma was also making her way through the camp, however the elf did so in a much cleaner fashion than Labrax. Using her twin enchanted mythil daggers to do most of the killing, striking vital points with frightening speed and accuracy, felling many beastmen who thought to make a meal out of the elf's supple flesh. Accompanying her was a smaller group of soldiers and workers assisting and supporting her in the task.
Eventually she arrived at Labrax's location, and while she couldn't see it, those around her could easily see what was left of those that had opposed the Theocracy's older warrior. What had been Han, had his gut sliced open, with his neck along with his hammer driven into his skull. As for Io, she had her legs sliced clean off, along with being cut clean down the middle.
"It seems you are done here." Emma plainly pointed out.
"Unfortunately." Labrax sighed, as he picked up his bell.
"There's still more for us to do. I want you to accompany us now. If we just go around uncoordinated some might escape." The elf pointed out.
"Very well. Just know that I will be leaving most of those killings to you. All the worthy kills have already been taken as is." He said with a fatigued sigh.
"Everyone move out!" Emma commanded.
"Ma'am!" All those around her replied.
Back in the clearing, Toa found himself on his knees. His body was covered in several burns, cuts, gashes, and bruises. His head had suffered several burns to the point he was practically blind, his legs had been sliced so as to make sure he would never stand up again, and his right arm was also gone. Yet, he was still alive, breathing heavily, and bleeding heavily. Just one push away from death.
"What an unseemly thing you are. Serves you right monster. For the pain and misery you and your filthy kind have brought to this country." Afonso remarked with hate and disdain.
"Still, ya' gotta admire his spirit." Bane pointed out in a praising tone.
"For what good it did for him. To be honest, I was beginning to pity him."
"Don't begin to go soft on me, Diogo." Cerabrate chuckled, as he raised his blade over Toa's neck.
"Y-You… will... all… regret…this…" Toa spat, blood coming out every time he paused.
"Defiant to the last." Cerabrate sighed, as his blade fell, and Toa's head rolled at their feet.
"Huh. Tough bastard." Bane sighed.
"Indeed. He might have been a real Elite ranked beastman." Afonso pointed out as he started to scribble something on a small notepad.
"Don't be silly, kid. He was nothing more than an overgrown Alpha." Cerabrate said wryly.
"I just got word from Emma. She is also finished with her part of the assignment." Diogo informed.
"Good. Let's go meet up with her. This forest is starting to bore me." Cerabrate laughed as he led the group back to the ruined remain of the beastman camp.
What the group didn't know, or didn't want to admit, was that Afonso was right. If properly classified, Toa fell under the rank of "Elite". A weak Elite perhaps, but one nonetheless. What they also failed to understand was that his final words carried a great deal of meaning in them. Even more than the beastman himself was probably aware of.
What they also failed to notice, even as they walked away, was that much of the scene had been observed by an eagle-type beastman, who even if not able to see everything, saw enough to say that the camp was massacred, and that Toa had been killed. This beastman, would then quickly make its way back to the Beastman Country, would make sure this news fell upon the ears of those interested in it. Including Tomo...
During the previous night another force was on the move. In the southern territories, was a country where cherry blossoms and katanas were commonplace, and black haired and black-eyed beauties with fair skin were as normal as the blondes to the north. To those that lived there, or to the few that were even remotely aware of their existence, it was called, Kokka no Shinku-Kokai.
Founded nearly 500 years ago, during the time when the Eight Greed Kings waged their genocidal war upon the reigning Dragon Lords, their people tell tales of a single powerful being. This being whom ended the ceaseless conflicts between the nine most dominant clans and their noble families, and brought peace, stability, prosperity, and unity to the lands, and crowning himself as the, "First Emperor".
This nation held many races. Though humans and elves are more often the ones part of the ruling classes, which includes descendants of the nine original clans and noble families, with the Emperor at the top. The "First Emperor" that had united their nation preached cooperation and tolerance of different races. So humanoids, demi-humans, and heteromorphs lived in relative harmony with each other. This was just one of many new reforms, which included the introduction of a new warrior class known as the katana wielding, "Samurai".
As the light of the full moon bathed the cherry blossoms, Atsukata Murata, lord of his house and the fifth to carry that title, made his way through his gardens, having made himself look as presentable as a man who had just gotten out of bed could. Under the largest and oldest tree of the garden, the one the first lord had planted as a symbol of their house and its power, was the reason for his current situation, a woman named Kusumi Kuchiki. A high-tier prostitute as he very well knew. However, long ago he had put this aside knowing that the love he had come to feel for her was mutual.
Kusumi was especially beautiful, as she sat by the tree wearing a highly detailed and expensive floral pattern kimono. Her long, straight black hair going down her back, her fare, snow white skin seemingly reflecting the light of the moon like pearls. Once she saw him approaching, a simple yet warm smile formed on her lips, as she got on her knees and kneeled to properly welcome a man of his status.
"Welcome, Murata-sama.~" She said with a soothing voice like honey, returning to her kneeling position.
"Kuchiki-san, I am glad that you were able to meet me here. I hope my men did not give you trouble." Atsukata remarked, kneeling in front of her and taking her hands in his.
"Not at all, Murata-sama." Kusumi chuckled.
"We are alone. You can use my given name." The lord said with a frown.
"Likewise, Atsukata.~" She purred, with a somewhat mischievous expression.
"I love it when you speak my name like that." He laughed, moving towards her.
"Is that all that you enjoy, Atsukata?~" She giggled, as his lips met hers.
"Not at all. As I cannot help but greatly enjoy this body of yours, and the time I spend with it. With you." He replied, as his hands began to travel the lengths of her form...
At the compound's gates, four guards wasted their night away with the ever bothersome look out for anyone that dared attack their lord. As some yawned, one of them was brought out of his usual monotone vigil when three individuals appeared on the road that led to the gate, in no way hiding that they were making their way towards them.
As the figures came closer to them, the guards were able to take in their features. The one to their left was the tallest of the group, a muscular man that hid all of his features under a cloak with several symbols etched onto it. To their right was an individual with long black hair, whose eyes seemed to shine crimson under the moonlight, with his skin rather pale. This one was wearing a black outfit with minimal armor covered by a long-tailed coat. On his right this individual carried a tachi and a wakizashi.
In the center was the figure that seemed to impose most of its presence upon the guards, being the one that caused them to gather in front of the gates and prepare to interact with these strangers. He was the second tallest of the group, wearing a plain high collar cloak, that hid part of his mouth but allowed them to see that he wore a mask that hid most of his lower face, with a hood covering the rest of his head, leaving only his eyes exposed. Eyes that upon closer inspection were clearly not human. They were black with crimson pupils.
"Halt! State your intentions." The main guard shouted, taking a step forwards.
"Lord Yamanouchi sends his regards." The central figure informed.
"Kill them!" The main guard commanded, as the four men charged at the trio.
"Arisuke."
That was the last thing the guards heard in this life. A simple name spoken by the man in the center of the trio, and just like that the one to their right vanished, appearing right after behind them, before their bodies collapsed on the floor, like lifeless puppets whose strings were cut.
"Why do you insist on calling me by my given name?" Arisuke growled in disapproval.
"It's easier. We have been working long enough for you to get used to it." His superior replied with a bored tone.
"Still, I would like you to refer to me with some kind of respect from time to time." The man hissed, bearing his fangs, and revealing his nature as a vampire.
"Hohoho. Seems like someone woke up on the wrong side of his coffin today." The tallest figure chuckled.
"Stay silent, Yama. This is not something you'll understand." Arisuke retorted.
"So you say, Sengoku-kun. But you know the boss is a foreigner. It's easier for him to use his culture than ours. Still, he's right when he says it's easier to use." Yama remarked with a chuckle.
"That's enough. Let's get to work." Their leader stoically commanded.
"Yes, boss." Yama laughed, removing his cloak.
Atsukata and Kusumi's moment of passion was brought to a quick end over the sound of something that seemed to be a loud explosion. The lord lifting himself from his half-disrobed mistress, to look in the direction of the sound. His eyes reflecting the flames that were coming from the main building, the sounds of screaming and battle beginning to become clear in the air.
"Atsukata…" Kusumi began, trying to get his attention when he coldly pushed her aside.
"I have to go." He said, beginning to put his robe back on.
Perhaps it was his current state of panic, but only when he was walking away from her, did the lord detect that his robe was heavier than it was before. This realization being followed by a sharp pain going through his neck. Atsukata's hand quickly went to the source of the pain, feeling something attached to his neck, which he pulled away and threw to the floor finding it to be a snake.
"W-What…" He mumbled, his vision beginning to become blurry.
"Such a shame.~" Kusumi said from behind him with a chuckle.
The lord quickly turned around to be met by his mistress, her kimono back on her body but left open so her front was exposed, with a rather disturbing smile on her face, along with the fact that her once beautiful eyes were now slits. Like those of a snake.
"What did you do to me!?" He shouted, falling to his knees.
"I played you, you simple minded monkey." She replied with a superior tone.
"D-Damn you…" He hissed roughly, strength beginning to leave his body.
"Yamanouchi-sama sends his regards." Kusumi informed, walking next to him before kicking him so he was now on his back.
"And don't worry. He is such a kind man that he made sure we send the rest of your house to keep you company.~" She added playfully.
The usual moments she would take to admire her victims' dead form were brought to a swift end by heavy footsteps moving through the garden. A man shouted his lord's name in hopes of finding him. Her keen eyes picking up on the approaching guard, no, this was the lord's top bodyguard. The Samurai, Morohira Sou. It didn't take long for the man to find her, and put together in his mind what she had done to his master.
"You damned wench! You will pay for the disaster you brought on this house." He shouted.
"Oh? Is that so, Shou-chan?" She said with a pleased smirk.
Her words were enough to cause the Samurai to let his rage flow free as he then went straight for her, putting everything aside to avenge his master. However, mid-charge another stranger came between himself and the woman. While any other opponent wouldn't have made him falter, this intruder's eyes seemed to bind him with their unnatural feeling. He stopped in his tracks as his mind forced him to reconsider his course of action.
"You were found out."
"Sorry, boss." Kusumi said with a slight frown.
"Shou Morohira, I heard that you are a man of great power and skill." Her superior said, his attention no longer on her.
"And what is it to you?" Morohira growled, taking his stance.
"I offer you a chance to avenge your master. Fight me for it."
"Really?" Kusumi mumbled.
"Very well. I take you up on your offer." The Samurai declared, taking his stance.
"Now, tell me the name of the man who has dishonored this house." He added.
"Fair enough. My name is Vali Kaas."
The Samurai's reaction was visible, which in Vali's eyes only served to show that much like he had been informed, this man was very well traveled and knowledgeable.
"Is something the matter?" He asked.
"I was surprised to see scum like you was able to learn enough of the 'barbaric north' to use one of the few known names of the Thirteen Heroes' members." Morohira replied.
"There isn't much to learn when you were there. But, I'll tell you if you win this duel."
Morohira let out an annoyed grunt taking his stance. Vali simply watched on as he saw his opponent activate several [Martial Arts], until he saw that the Samurai was done with his preparations and simply lunged. Morohira didn't move until Vali was almost at arms reach from him, when he let his blade down for a single attack, his trump card [Heaven Cutter]. The swing made contact with his opponent, even leaving a large cut in the ground in front of him, Kusumi only managing to narrowly avoid the blow.
The Samurai was left breathing heavily, cursing himself for having put so much power into a single attack. Especially when there were more intruders to deal with. His worries however were quickly overwhelmed by what stood before him. His eyes beheld a still alive Vali, who still stood before him even after taking his strongest blow. Vali had taken the blow to his left shoulder, and while it damaged his outfit, his skin had suffered no visible damage.
"I-Impossible." Morohira mumbled, staggering backwards in shock.
"Disappointing, but expected." Vali sighed.
Vali's blow was like a flash of light, as Morohira didn't even pick up on his opponent lifting his arm, and delivering a light yet precise blow to his heart. Something that dropped the wise Samurai as soon as Vali's arm was back to his side.
"Shall we join the others?" Kusumi suggested.
"Hm. Lead the way." Vali replied, giving the fallen Samurai a nod before beginning to walk away.
The duo made their way to what was left of the main building, Kusumi taking the lead as she sauntered as sensually as possible for her own amusement, when their walk was cut short when the mangled remains of a large guard crashed next to them. At this their eyes went to the massive figure approaching them from the main building. It was Yama in his true form as an Oni. These being a sub-type of giant unique to the southern territories, characterized by their red skin, two large horns on their heads, and two large tusks emerging from their lower jaw.
"You look rough, boss." Yama casually remarked, looking at Vali.
"And you look disgraceful, Kuchiki-san." Arisuke said, materializing from his mist form.
"Oh? Is that because you don't have it in you to spend some time with me?~" She retorted, further opening her kimono towards him.
"Status report?" Vali asked in a commanding tone.
"Guards dead." Yama replied.
"Family and servants killed." Arisuke replied.
"Lord dead." Kusumi added.
"Good. We're done here. Let's move out."
'"Yes, boss!"' They all replied in unison.
The following morning, Vali met with the Lord of the Yamanouchi house, Toki Yamanouchi. The mercenary met his employer in his house's inner sanctum, where Toki would spend much of the early morning in deep prayer. He was a deeply religious man, so much so that he believed that there was no other way for him to meet the people he had hired for such a questionable act then under the gaze of the gods.
Vali kneeled near the entrance to the temple, Toki rested almost in the opposite side of the room, near the main shrine. Standing on both sides were several armed and highly skilled guards, with skills comparable to those of samurai.
"It seems you have finally seen your mission through. I am very thankful for the 'Yasei no Kari', for their assistance." Toki declared, taking a small bow towards Vali.
"You honor us with your words, Yamanouchi-sama. Yet, as I have stated before, we could have finished long ago, if your request were not as specific as it was." Vali said, also taking a bow.
"So you have said. Yet, what else would have been fitting for a man like that? What else would have been fitting for a monster, who made play things of young women… even my little girl…" Toki began to shout, ultimately falling into silence as painful memories clouded his mind.
"N-No. No. He thought he tricked all of us… There was no better way than to have your people trick him, and then take everything away from him, and clean this world of him and his people…" He mumbled, his right hand going to his forehead as if a terrible weight had fallen on it.
"Yamanouchi-sama." One of the guards spoke up, as he saw his superior fall into deep silence and thought.
"Y-Yes. Well, here's your payment, Kaas-dono, you have earned it."
With a motion of his hand, Toki instructed the closest guard to Vali's right to present the mercenary with a large and heavy briefcase. To the point even the guard seemed to have some difficulty carrying it. Once presented with the case, Vali felt all eyes on him, as he knew that they were waiting for him to open it and confirm if the amount was correct.
Yet, he did not do this. There was simply no need to do it. Vali needed only to look at Toki, and see the his state after learning his assignment had been seen through. That upon his order, an entire house had been erased from existence. He would not go and trick the man he had tasked to do this.
"Thank you, Yamanouchi-sama. Is there anything you need of me, or the rest of the Yasei no Kari?"
"No, Kaas-dono. You and your people have done enough. However, I would like to mention that I have mentioned the 'Yasei no Kari' to a few of my acquaintances, and some did seem interested in hiring you."
"Very well. If you are to meet them again, tell them we are always open to any request they might have. As long as it is reasonable that is."
Having said this, Vali got back to his feet, picking up the heavy case with his right hand, taking one final bow before then leaving.
The rest of the Yasei no Kari were waiting for their leader back in their base, which long ago had served only as Arisuke's and his lost lover's, hideout. It was a kind of crypt, yet heavily extended to fit the vampire and his comrades. The stone floor and walls were kept in perfect shape by Arisuke's vast harem of male and female vampires. The hideout was also rather impressively decorated, making it look more like an underground home for nobles, than a place where mercenaries like them dwelt. Of course, there were also sections that, given their purpose, were left mostly empty or unkempt.
The trio were in one of the existing lounges. Arisuke rested on a sofa, with his attention on the glass of blood currently in his hand. He tried to keep his focus on it, and not on Kusumi who was sitting on the sofa opposite to him. The woman was wearing a kimono, yet sat in such a fashion that left her rather exposed to anyone that looked at her, all the while keeping a teasing smile as she waited for the vampire to look at her.
This was added by the fact that flanking her were two of the male vampires that served Arisuke, each serving her drinks and food, completely influenced by her abilities. Yama, who was naturally wearing his cloak, was on his feet, looking through the many bottles in a large shelf, trying to find something that would get his interest.
"Have you no shame!?" Arisuke growled, while keeping his eyes on his glass.
"I do not know what you are talking about, Sengoku-kun.~" Kusumi chuckled innocently.
"Do not mock me, woman! You know very well what I'm talking about. And who gave you permission to use my servants on such meaningless tasks?" The vampire asked, visibly displeased with the situation.
"How could I not? They are just darlings." The woman remarked, caressing both vampire servants.
"They are not yours to use!" Arisuke shouted, finally looking up at Kusumi, all the while doing his best to keep eye contact and not look away from her shameful presentation.
"Yama, have you ever heard of a vampire who is such a prude?" Kusumi chuckled.
"Can't say I have, Kuchuki-san." Yama replied, still focused on the bottles.
"I've had enough! I want you…" Arisuke began, when the door to the room opened, revealing Vali.
"Is there a problem?" Their leader asked.
"Oya!~ Arisuke is somewhat sensitive today." Kusumi replied mischievously.
"She doesn't know how to behave! How am I supposed to react?" The vampire argued.
"If you decided to have some fun, and stop being such a prude, you would be having a much better time." The woman pointed out leisurely.
"Not everyone can be as easy as you are. But I guess a whore won't get that." Arisuke spat.
"That's enough!" Their superior shouted.
"Yare, Yare.~ I guess, I should get going. Someone in this team needs to do information gathering after all." The woman said, sounding somewhat indifferent to what had just happened.
"Who said you could leave?" Vali asked, tilting his head to the side.
"M-My apologies." Kusumi replied.
"Good. Now, I have told you several times that while you might have fun teasing others, I won't put up with it when it causes friction between the two of you. And, you Arisuke, I already told you not to take her too seriously."
"Why not have them fight it out?" Yama suggested nonchalantly.
"Be silent. I will not have members of this team fighting amongst each other. Instead, I want the two of you working together in Kusumi's next assignment."
"B-But I was meant to do that assignment with you." Kusumi pointed out, sounding almost disappointed with the change in plans.
"Not anymore. I want you two to work together when the time comes. It's a simple assassination. There shouldn't be any problems, right?" Vali asked, eyeing down the duo.
"If that is what you wish for." Arisuke replied in resignation.
"F-Fine. I guess we can come up with another plan to handle this." Kusumi remarked.
"Very good. Now go, the both of you."
"As you wish." The duo acknowledged, taking a bow and leaving...