Clash of Realms Zelliatos

CHP69: Akasha's hidden Power

Sitting at her office desk the Dark Lord was provided with stacks upon stacks of paperwork, some of which inquiries from other kingdom leaders, scheduled events throughout the capital, approval sign offs and additional formal complaints from citizens within the realm. She sat there with her shoulders tight.

Her inner thoughts were however hindered at the sight of an assistant stepping through the open entrance. She carried with her another stack of papers which she carefully set down over the empress's desk.

"Alrighty, that should be the last of it my lady." the woman rubbed her hands together.

While the assistant was beaming she looked down over the empress who seemed to have grown pale as if she'd been bitten by a poisonous snake.

"My lady, my lady are you okay?! Is there anything I can get you?" she questioned.

"All fine here…" Akasha didn't make direct eye contact and nor did she come off as convincing.

Even so, the woman didn't want to be a bother and so she just bowed her head.

"Myself and the rest of the attendants will be nearby if you need anything. Don't be afraid to holler for any reason at all."

With that the woman took off through the doorway and turning the corner. Akasha inspected all the diverse stacks over her desk once more dropping her head into the palm of her hand.

Beforehand the vampire knew exactly what she'd be getting herself into. But even still, mentally preparing herself for the workload and then actually going through with it was an entirely different game.

That said she wouldn't complain and it wasn't something she hadn't done or handled in the Kingdom of Hiklorhan. Yes, maybe on a much larger scale and would take a lot more time but all of it was within her abilities. And so with her posture straightened and clear focus in her eyes, the empress got right to work.

XXWashington DCXX

Inside a burger joint is where two individuals ordered their food and with a tray of their own they seated themselves within a booth overlooking the busy street. Both persons wore hoodies pulled up over their heads.

The conversation didn't begin right away, instead both persons taking a bite into their respective orders.

"Hhmmm…" the werewolf in human form moaned at the delicious juiciness of his sandwich. "Now this is what I call a burger!"

His working partner across from him took three fries, dipping them into some ketchup and devoured it all in roughly three bites. Reaching out and taking hold of his large cup he washed it down with some Coke.

"So how went the meeting?" Tsukune leaned back taking his chicken wrap in between his fingers.

The vampire took a sizable bite while Gin took a few sips from his sprite.

"Apparently I made a significant impression. The head guy was blown away." Gin said.

"What was he like, what did the two of you talk about?" Tsukune questioned.

Gin was already with the burger in hand and took another bite with another moan escaping his lips. He just couldn't get over how tasty this burger was.

"Daizo, yeah he comes off as a tough hard ass, intimidating even but I sort of expected that going in. Being the top dog of a successful gang isn't easy. Rivaling gangs gunning for your head, and than of course commanding the respect and loyalty of your peers. Being a kiss ass nice guy isn't going to do it, that's for sure." Gin said.

Tsukune was with a quick nod.

"Then it's safe to assume he didn't mention anything about Yokai Academy?" Tsukune questioned.

"Not at all. And I didn't want to press him on the Dorinindel's current affairs. I just got myself in, the last thing we need is any of that bunch getting suspicious." Gin said.

"Right, you can say that again. But thanks again for this and I trust eventually we'll get what we're after. But if it ever reaches a point that you feel something isn't right or they're onto you, don't hesitate to back out." Tsukune said.

"Nah I'm good, I'll be careful." Gin said.

Both smiled and finished what remained of their food.

XXA few days laterXX

It was inside the Realm of Alvasleha where two vampires stood across from one another staring into the eyes of the opposition. They'd been at it for several minutes already, both confident and unyielding.

The silver haired vampire shoved her foot firmly into the ground and was the first to make a move as she shot forward at the opponent who did the same from across the way. They collided and clashed with one another and a knee to the gut knocked the breath out of Moka.

Then came an elbow to the face from her opponent which caused her to lose balance but she didn't fall! Fist tightened, she threw out a punch which was blocked as was her follow-up kick and her opponent simultaneously forced her back with an open palm strike which dropped her down.

Moka rolled out of the way of an attempted foot stomp that came down over her, while jumping back to her feet and trading a few blows with her opponent.

"Halt, that'll be enough for now," the pink haired vampire reached out and lowered a hand over the shoulder of Moka. "What do you say we get some refreshments?"

With a quick nod, Moka gave her mother a smile as they stepped out of the ring. The surface itself was of sand.

"How long did it take?" Moka asked.

Looking to her slightly as they moved along, Akasha was with deep eyes.

"Whatever do you mean?" the Dark Lord questioned.

"Combat, everything you're so… so proficient. Admit it or not I've started picking up on when you're holding back and when you're taking it…"

"That's a good sign." Akasha cut her daughter off. "The reality you can now tell the difference means you're adapting to and learning my fighting style further. But the last thing I want is to dishearten you." Akasha said.

Moka subsequently rolled her eyes at the remark. And while she didn't speak she knew exactly what it was the dark lord meant. Already in the not so distant past she defeated not only Moka and Tsukune, but a couple of their Yokai Academy friends altogether.

"But you asked how long?" Akasha posed, bringing Moka out of her thoughts. "There isn't a straight answer for that I'm afraid."

Moka now eyed her mother more closely, wanting to know exactly what she meant.

"Just as almost anything else it is heavily dependent on the individual. His or her mindset, how much hours they put in, attention to detail and willingness to improve." Akasha said.

Moka nodded with her gaze over the ground.

"Then I suppose we should head back to the capital. I mean you must have a lot of paperwork you need to go through?" Moka said.

"Hehe, you forget we're in the hidden realm of Alvasleha. One week in real time is equivalent to a month inside here. So a few hours in here is barely anything outside." Akasha said.

The silver haired vampire smiled at this.

"Than this quite the convenient little spot. How many know about it?" Moka questioned.

"Not many, just a select few. To be honest I haven't really vacationed or used this spot in at least four years. But with the current predicament it shall work in my favor if I get behind on office stuff, additional training or even just to rest." Akasha said.

"Sounds like you have it all figured out, I would expect nothing less." Moka said.

They took only a few more steps as Akasha came to a complete stop.

"Mother…" the silver haired vampire looked back at her.

Akasha's arms were outstretched in front of her and hands clasped together. Even without her speaking Moka knew something bothered the dark lord.

"It's nothing really," Akasha looked up and smiled at her daughter. "I have a little surprise."

The pink haired vampire fiddled with her fingers.

"Oh I'm so bad at this!" Akasha swallowed back.

Moka's eyes narrowed. Whatever in the world was Akasha referring to?!

"Nope, nothing hehe. You will find out tonight at the grand opening ceremony with everyone else. No use in spoiling the surprise in advance when we're so close." Akasha beamed.

Whatever it was she kept secret had to be something good. Moka could feel the positive energy and vibes stemming from Akasha.

"Huh, whatever it is you've got me excited now. I can hardly wait." Moka said, not hiding a grin.

XXMonster realm kingdom of HiklorhanXX

Lights were shining bright all over in the kingdom of Hiklorhan as various persons passed through the front gates of the BloodRizz stadium, similar in size to that of a football stadium. Spectators were amped and ready to witness the opening rounds of qualifiers.

Whenever the said event came around, even in just the qualifying rounds the competition was always a spectacle as only those with promising ability and combat would receive an invite. Out front two particular individuals arrived, arms locked as they made their way towards the front doors. Security working the front doors recognized the two of them.

"Aono Tsukune and Moka," he waved at them both. "Over this way."

Neither of the two vampires recognized this individual, but headed into a side door that was labeled V.I.P. Only. Once through they made their way down a long hall with a select few guardsmen standing around.

Moka was dressed in a white blouse of silky material, with a flower wave design at the sleeves, a black skirt with black boots. And her hair was tied up in a bun by way of a black ribbon with two long strands extending downward on either side of her face.

Next to her Tsukune was in a dark red dress shirt with a collar, a wrist watch, tan dress pants and black shoes. It wasn't long before they were out of the hall and into the main auditorium. And while the event itself was taking place in the kingdom of vampires, Tsukune right away picked up on all the different monster energy signatures.

While sixty percent of the crowds were in their true forms the remaining forty percent chose to hide away in their monster forms. This was an exact indication just how grand this was, as so many from far away lands were attending.

"Tsukune, this way," Moka tugged at her husband and pulled him along. "I think I know where mother should be."

Without any hesitation, Tsukune allowed her to lead the way and stay close. Even if they did however get separated from one another in this big crowd, he'd essentially memorized Moka's Yokai energy signature. Finding her wouldn't be an issue unless she was intentionally masking it.

Up a few levels in one of the larger press box's is where they came across the empress. She was dressed in a short blood red kimono with her legs exposed wearing black boots and her hair tied up in a red bow.

"Tsukune, Moka," Akasha turned and facing them both. "I'm glad you're early before the grand opening. You see there's been a last minute change up."

The blankness in their expressions didn't go unnoticed by her.

"The two of you will be included in the opening ceremony, alongside Issa and a select few others." Akasha said.

Tsukune's eyes shot open!

"Opening ceremony, us?! Hold on a moment, we didn't even have time to recite or go through the routine, if there is one! Akasha-San this is…"

Tsukune went silent as Akasha stepped forward and playfully squeezed his cheek.

"It'll be easy, something that comes naturally." Akasha said.

"Something that comes naturally?" Tsukune questioned.

Akasha nodded but didn't get the opportunity for a follow up as Moka's phone went off. She uncovered the small device looking down over the caller ID as she let out a gasp.

"Sorry, I need to take this." Moka said.

She headed for the exit with Tsukune raising an eyebrow.

"Moka-San who is it?" Tsukune questioned.

Unexpectedly she didn't respond and just let herself out leaving behind her husband and the Dark Lord.

"Wha… what was that all about?" Tsukune questioned.

He took a step in that direction with the intention to follow after her but was stopped by Akasha pulling him back.

"Let her go, I'm certain it's nothing to worry about. And as for the opener… or at least the portion you shall be involved in is quite simple. It's nothing we haven't done recently." Akasha said.

"Excuse me?" Tsukune questioned.

"A sparring match against yours truly, hehe." Akasha snickered.

Outside the room, Moka found herself walking through crowds of soon to be spectators and even bumping into a few with how heavily packed it was already.

"Akashiya." someone called out.

She recognized the voice, turning and looking in that direction. But something wasn't right, he looked completely different… wait no he was just in disguise. Yeah, made sense Bruce Wayne was a prominent figure and he certainly couldn't run the risk of even a single monster recognizing him in such a setting.

"It's only Aono now," Moka crossed her arms. "Aono Moka."

"That so? I assumed you and Tsukune's ceremony was done here in the monster world with dissimilar…"

"Both actually. A human world wedding and mating ceremony." Moka replied.

"My apologies Miss Aono," Bruce grinned just before looking outward. "There, that way. Let's find somewhere quiet where we can talk." Bruce said.

With a nod the silver haired vampire trailed behind him as they did exactly that, making their way next to a stairwell.

"Gotta say, I wasn't expecting seeing you here." Moka said.

"Listen, this probably isn't the ideal spot to discuss this and we'll go through the details later but… I, no; the team has a proposition for you." Bruce said.

"A proposal? And team, do you mean the Justice League?!" Moka almost yelled.

"Sssshhh, keep your voice down," Bruce glared. "If you take this up it's best to stay between us. I doubt your mother would approve."

"So than…" Moka clasped her hands together.

"Would you be interested in involving yourself as a part time, temporary member of the Justice League… Vampire Bat?" Bruce asked.

And just like that her heart raced feeling as though it might rip straight through her chest. Of course she would, this was an absolute honor! No, no she needed to calm dow, Moka didn't want to come off as to overly excited! But than there was that, he addressed and acknowledged counterpart secret identity! This was great!

"Absolutely, you can count me in." Moka said coolly as if it wasn't a big deal.

"That's great to hear." a woman approached from a couple yards away.

"Diana!" Bruce's eyes broadened.

Both vampires were surprised at the Amazon's presence as she stopped short of them.

"Your idea to add Moka as a short term, part timer to the team and mentioning of this event got me thinking. To be honest I've been silently deliberating about it since that day." Diana Prince said.

"Since that day," Bruce repositioned with his arms crossed.

"The Bloodriver Castle. You know, that team tournament Akasha spoke of," Diana looked Bruce directly in his eyes. "Have you gave it some thought? The decision is yours to make, but the warrior in me doesn't want to miss this for a second."

The Amazon princess cracked her knuckles and Moka couldn't help but smile at this, feeling her own inner competitiveness begin to rise. And with a light punch to his shoulder Moka threw her hair back.

"You cannot say no. The Batman and Wonder Woman taking part in the tournament, eyes from every kingdom would in the realm would be glued on this event!" Moka said.

"In case you haven't forgotten, I'm not much for, nor do I care for the attention." Bruce retorted.

"That's all fine and dandy, you wouldn't have to enter as the Batman. As just an upstart vampire soldier could suffice and you could even choose a set of armor to your liking. Ha, but I'm sure you'd work up something custom." Moka added.

"And the best part is, neither you or Diana would have to take part in qualifying rounds. Yes, mother would announce you as one of her hand picked squads. Each major kingdom is allowed four hand picked teams of two. You'd both be representatives of Hiklorhan."

Straightaway Bruce looked away from both women and didn't say anything for an extended period.

"I… I'll think about it. We've wounded Fairy Tale for the time being but they aren't defeated. And then there's still Maximoff and the court." Bruce said.

"Good, then I'll let mother know right away to hold you both on the reserve list!" Moka said.

"Do as you please. Tomorrow around noon I will make contact with you and then we can properly discuss the details of your inclusion on the team. But remember, keep this to yourself." Bruce said.

"Lips locked and key thrown away. There won't be a peep. Will you be staying to spectate the event?" Moka asked.

Bruce simply nodded.

"Yes, I wanted to speak with your mother at the conclusion of things. A business matter." Bruce replied.

The silver haired vampire gave the two of them a thumbs up before taking off.

"King Fafnir," Bruce looked to Diana. "Is that who granted you access into the realm?"

"Yes. He's also present in the stadium. A few of his trainees from Arcenill Mount are taking part. And I'm a sucker for a good battle." Diana said.

"Than let us find a place to sit." Bruce smirked.

From there Bruce and Diana passed through and mingling around before ultimately being seated within fifteen and it wasn't long after that the opening ceremony commenced with a band of musicians performing onstage. The crowds applauded them as they left stage and that's when Bloodriver Akasha appeared, still dressed in her Kimono.

Much like the large tournament event her father hosted realm wide, one of the opening traditions was for Akasha to take on her father in a friendly sparring match. And if not for the current circumstance and Apollo rendered unconscious, that's exactly as it would have been on this night.

That and there was something huge, a big reveal that she was saving for this. Of all people she wanted him to be there to witness it. But that time would eventually come. At some point or another Apollo would awake and things could return to some form of normalcy. Those thoughts were however brushed aside as a few additional persons stepped into the ring opposite of the empress.

These persons were Issa Shuzen, the supreme commander of the Hiklorhan army, five of his top ranked soldiers, in addition to both Tsukune and Moka. With their wealth of power activated the married pair were instantly standing in battle gear. Tsukune swallowed back as he bit down over his tongue.

"I don't like this… she seems way too confident and that grin looks deadly." Tsukune said nervously.

"Don't think much of it, that's just mother for you. Always without a care or doubt that she'll be victorious." Moka said.

"Pipe down, both of you!" Issa shot, only partially looking back at them over his shoulder. "Focus, the battle is just under way."

It was outside the ring where a singular individual carried a massive hammer, smashing it into a bell which indicated the beginning of the match. Inside the stadium were over one hundred thousand spectators watching from in the stands, which included the global power leaders of Vindellorien, Yundervelt, Arcenill Mount, Reinganar, Aqualanteis, Uanora, Draspeya and Thishieita.

The crowds were already loud and not a single punch had been thrown. Akasha standing in a fighting stance and seemingly daring her opponents to make a move. Also in the crowds spectating were Mizore, Gin, Yukari and San. And while she was covered up real good and in disguise, Kokoa Shuzen was also present.

"What's wrong, the bell sounded. I want you all to come at me with all you've got. Don't hold anything back. Defensive barriers have been implemented under and within the ring and all over the stadium. No need to worry about collateral damages." Akasha grinned.

"But… but Akasha-San, this is just an exhibition. No need to overdo it." Tsukune said.

It was right then and there that heaviness surrounded the entire ring as Issa's monster energy and aura climbed to the max which was then followed by a grinning Moka who did the same. Next were the five soldiers who powered themselves up and that left only Tsukune.

"This is crazy… what are we even doing right now!" Tsukune thought silently.

But even so, this is what Akasha asked for and so with that he put all other thoughts aside. Taking a deep breath and with his eyes closed the vampire amped up his monster energy and aura, and by this point inside the arena was overflowing with their combined power. But there was something interesting and that something was Akasha.

"Okay, we're all set and ready to go now," Moka looked to her mother. "That just leaves you."

The pink haired vampire made eye contact with her daughter for only a moment before letting out a chuckle.

"Ooohh, but I am. Come, shall we begin now." Akasha observably looked over her eight opponents.

The eyes of not only Tsukune and Moka widened but Issa Shuzen as well. There's no way, he must have misheard her, right? Tsukune bit back. Last time the combined efforts of himself, Moka, Gin and Mizore at least forced her into twenty to thirty percent of her power in his estimation.

"Akasha my lady, you can't be serious." Issa laughed aloud.

The Shuzen vampire was well aware of the Dark Lord's power and her capabilities, but this… this was just ludicrous. The five soldiers aside, she was up against himself and two shinso vampires! Was she mocking them.

"Commander, what should we do?" one out of the five soldiers questioned.

Still with his eyes over the Dark Lord who held a teasing smug expression, this pissed Issa off while his fists tightened.

"Tsukune, Moka, my soldiers… are you ready?!" Issa questioned.

"Yes sir!" his men shouted at once.

Moka and Tsukune however just nodded and without warning Issa Shuzen was the first to take off as if he were a barrel fired from a cannon. His first three attacks were eluded and on the fourth Akasha took hold of his fist, firmly grasping it under her palm as he was unable to pull away.

"Impossible!" Issa snapped.

Akasha threw out a kick which saw him into the air and crash landing in between everyone else.

"Commander!" one soldier ran over to his side.

Issa immediately shot up seizing him by the throat and lifted him off his feet.

"You fool, where is your killer instinct?! The target is right there in front of us, do as you were trained to do!" Issa quickly tossed him aside.

If they weren't already everyone was dialed in and ready to go, and without warning it was Tsukune and Moka that went after her next using coordinated attacks, but didn't so much land a blow as it was either blocked and or eluded.

"What's going on here, mother isn't using even a drop of her inner power! Yet she's besting us like this, and so easily!" Moka pondered.

Those thoughts quickly vanished as both she and Tsukune ended up on their backs. Issa and his wave of soldiers were the next in over her springing an attack with the pink haired vampire making them look like school children.

"Well damn, that Akasha is something else. Nothing short of amazing, I hate to say it but she's essentially reduced Shuzen, Tsukune and Moka to fodder it looks like." Gin said.

"Has she tapped into her Yokai? I don't feel anything coming from her at all." Mizore added.

"Was just thinking the same, man is it even possible she improved that much in such a short time?!" Gin said.

"She's a Dark Lord and the second most powerful vampire to live for a reason. This is no surprise." San said.

The action inside the ring continued with Akasha, bending, twisting and swerving around as her aura flared to a small degree, battling her incoming foes with patience. This increased her awareness, precision and reaction slightly and it just so happened to be enough.

The opposition kept up with her and even got a handful of hits in, but it was nothing that overwhelmed her. Even as they came at her head on, the Dark Lord was ready; a smirk taking shape over her features. From weakest to strongest, yes she would first do away with the light weights.

Taking off into an offensive dash, Akasha quickly did away with and ringing out two of the vampire soldiers. Another of them punched at the pink haired vampire but his fist grabbed and arm twisted as he to was tossed out of the ring. From afar Issa Shuzen's eyes broadened whilst clinching his fists.

Issa shot in quickly trying to catch her off guard but received a knee to the gut which forced him back in the opposite direction and right at the edge of being ringed out.

"Moka-San!" Tsukune yelled out to her.

"Yes, I know," Moka halfway looked in Tsukune's direction. "Something about her has changed drastically! Even still we must stay calm and even keel. If we can't down her, we'll just have to force her out of the ring." Moka said.

Tsukune nodded and Moka's eyes were glued over the Dark Lord. She had questions, very many, but now wasn't the time to ask. The final two members of the Hiklorhan army were knocked unconscious. And this left only the two shinso vampires and Issa standing opposite of Akasha.

"The match isn't yet over," Akasha chuckled. "Surely you haven't lost your confidence I hope?"

Issa snarled under his breath taking off at her.

"Don't get cocky! I haven't a clue what you're playing here, but if you think defeating me without a drop of your Yokai is possible, than you've lost it!" Issa snapped.

His power and aura fumed outwardly increasing the size of the smirk over her face. Without restraint, Issa was giving his best effort and going at her with all he had. The shinso duo off to the side of them also took action joining the supreme commander. Even while she exchanged blows with each of them, Akasha took note of their movement patterns.

And with that she found her eventual opening and with a powerful strike Tsukune was dropped out of the ring! And with Moka and Issa's attention diverted in that direction Issa was upper cut nearly fifty feet into the air! Akasha then leaped upward and with her legs positioned over Issa's shoulders, and wrapped around his neck she pulled him down.

His head was smashed into the concrete surface down below as he was knocked unconscious! The spectating crowds were roaring at this point; Akasha rolling and jumped back to her feet. And from there mother and daughter stared into the eyes of each other.

"Well this is pointless…" Moka's eyes narrowed.

"Does that mean you're throwing in the towel?" Akasha asked.

"As if." Moka replied.

Both vampires smiled, but that was short lived as Moka took off full head esteem. As she was the only one left and having been training under the Dark Lord's guidance one on one, she had a pretty good indication of how this bout would end.

But even still Moka gave it her best effort going right at Akasha. They went back and forth for just a few moments before both leaped up and back.

"Know your place!"

Both vampires declared at once throwing out an identical kick at each other, however Akasha's came out faster and with more intensity as Moka was sent flying out of the ring. Her body dropped over the ground with the crowds at their loudest they'd been the entire night. Tsukune quickly ran up to Moka's side and it felt like Dejavu when they'd been defeated at the Bloodriver castle.

"Moka-San…" Tsukune murmured her name.

"I'm fine," she smiled up at him. "This outcome was expected. But without even a drop of her power… now that was an embarrassment."

From there Tsukune stood, lending a hand and helped Moka to her feet as well. And it was in that stands by her lonesome that someone sat, fuming with clinched fists.

"Née-san no! You lost…" Kokoa said with frustration.

Issa Shuzen was awoken and helped out of the ring, leaving only Akasha who he was eye balling on his way out. The empress stood silently until all the noise died down and a small fairy woman flying into the ring and handing her a microphone.

"Testing, testing… good, sounds like you all can hear me clearly," the empress said. "There is just one final act and then the main show can begin."

Everyone was silent for the most part as the lights inside the stadium dimmed down until it was completely dark. A few moments later a blue light brightened the middle of the ring from up top, exactly where Akasha stood. Akasha's eyes were closed and that's when a soft instrumental began playing which poured out through all the built in stereo systems inside the stadium.

And not long after after a beautiful soft voice peered through as a lone succubus sang at such a soothing and relaxing tone that sent shivers up the spines of very many spectators. The lyrics and song itself was a monster real classic, titled 'The living monster inside'.

The hidden singer was hidden no longer as she flapped her wings coming from up top, singing as she had been with a microphone in hand.

"Kurumu-san." Tsukune looked out at her.

The blue haired succubus was also dressed in a kimono but in the colors of orange and black. A dim purple light shined over her just as the empress. The two weren't alone for long as a second vocalist joined by Kurumu's side, also a succubus with reddish brown hair tied in a long ponytail.

But that wasn't all, six female vampire dancers, all citizens of Hiklorhan also made their way into the ring. Mizore was almost with tears in her eyes at how beautiful Kurumu's voice was. Soon the succubus beside Kurumu sang with her as the pace of the music picked up.

And just as Kurumu, her singing partner in addition to the dancers were all dressed in matching black and orange Kimonos. The separate lights that flashed over them all glimmered into a bright red and that's when the eyes of the empress shot open; her green eyes replaced by red ones with a slit through them.

The song hit its fastest pace and not only did Akasha's aura sky rocket but so to did her monster energy. The performers beforehand were advised in advance of what would happen so not to be alarmed and continue their task while she put on a show of her own.

"Selene are you feeling this?!" Lailey looked to the medic seated next to her.

"Impossible! Akasha-sama has never exerted this much power, ever!" Selene responded.

Issa Shuzen couldn't believe his eyes and nor could Tsukune.

"Mother, what… what is this power stemming from you?!" Moka felt her own body tighten.

"Akasha! What're you doing!" Issa exploded inside.

Reactions were coming from all over and before they knew it the entire stadium was shaking and the empress shouting at the tops of her lungs with a school of bats flying around her. The stadium itself shook as if an earthquake was upon them, and had it not been for the several barrier seals throughout absorbing the impact flow of her energy the entire stadium would have collapsed.

Various individuals were up and standing over their feet as the excitement mounted. This included all the different kingdom leaders. Four bat wings shot out of Akasha's back and as the song and performance came to an end so did her power up to one hundred percent.

"Preposterous! No fucking way!" Kenzie Jie cursed aloud, a werewolf and the leader of Reinganar. "How can she be that powerful!"

The vampire dancers, as well as the two succubus singers turned and faced Bloodriver Akasha who's aura was blasting out like flames.

"So heavy, so intense, and my body it won't… won't stop shaking!" Kurumu thought silently.

What was this power?! From where she stood the vampire medic bit down over her tongue but a grin just as quickly shaped over her face.

"Well, well master… it would appear you've reclaimed your status in the hierarchy as number one," the purple haired vampire was overjoyed, but had so very many questions.

"How did she do it?! What do you know?!" Lailey snapped.

"Nothing. This is much a surprise to me as it is to you. Akasha-sama," Selene stared down into the ring with her eyes directly over Akasha. "You're nothing short of extraordinary."

"You're the expert in specifics with monster energy levels and what not, how much has she climbed?" Lailey asked.

Selene snickered aloud.

"In terms that you can understand, the power Akasha-sama is displaying right now is nearly four times stronger than her most powerful recorded max." Selene said.

Lailey's eyes widened and she was completely speechless.

"But… but how?! How is that possible?" Lailey asked.

"How is the question." Selene said.

The medic looked to Lailey for only a quick instant before her attention returned to inside the ring.

"And with this your power now sits atop what Wayne exhorted during his awakening. Hehe and you seemingly have the utmost control over it, you're truly a gem incredible." Selene thought silently.

That said, Selene had an abundance of questions. Firstly, how and when did her master attain this power and more importantly her secret to control over it.

"Look at her! She's like a dark goddess, holy crap!" Gin's fists tightened over a nearby railing.

Moka's eyes were locked in over her mother from the lower levels as a chuckle escaped her lips.

"Hehe, so this is how you did it. Your inner power increased so substantially, that even your base strength and abilities took a significant jump." Moka said.

"Moka-san…" Tsukune looked to his wife.

"It is why mother defeated us without using a drop of her yokai energy. She's somehow broke past her physical limitations, or shattered would be more like it. So it only makes sense in base she'd have advanced." Moka said.

"Right you are," Issa looked to his daughter. "Your mother is the best of the best for a reason. Whether it's her combat prowess, strength or proficiency in black arts."

"Anybody have a clue how? I mean she's scary powerful. Not that she wasn't already, but this is insanity! Maybe it's age," Tsukune scratched at the side of his head. "Yeah. Akasha has lived so long, that's got to be it."

"Doubt it. There's more to this than meets the eye." Issa Shuzen said.

A confident smirk occupied the Dark Lord's face from all the different reactions she received, but doing what she set out to do, she powered all the way down with the bat wings retracting, and her rose orbs returning to green ones.

From where he stood Bruce was heavily gawked over the empress from afar with very much on mind but was brought back to reality with a shoulder nudge from Diana.

"She's got quite the power when serious. I don't recall this output from seven years ago on the battlefield." Diana Prince said.

"That's because she didn't." Bruce crossed his arms.

With questioning eyes, Diana looked to him, but judging by his facial features he didn't have answers.

"Interesting," Diana cracked her knuckles. "Her combat skills were excellent against you during that friendly fight. And with her packing so much power, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't interested in taking her on in a friendly sparring exhibition myself." Diana tilted her head with enthusiasm.

Bruce smiled at this but with his gaze still over the pink haired vampire. That same fairy from before returned and dropping a microphone down into her hands.

"Again, I want to first start by thanking you all for attending. And that performance just now wasn't meant to scare anyone of you. But a warning to those that would ever try and disrupt the piece and bring anarchy to this realm. We will not stand for it and I'd strike them down with my own two hands if it ever became necessary!" Akasha let be known.

The crowds became electric at this with Bloodriver chants all around. Before speaking once more, the empress waited for all the ruckus to die down.

"And without further ado, let the tournament begin!" Akasha said.

She bowed her head before stepping out of the ring beside the two singers in addition to the dancers. Kurumu was in awe looking up at Akasha from the back view. And it was inside one of the tunnels that Tsukune and Moka walked together with the silver haired vampire silently deliberating to herself.

"That strength just now," Moka's fists constricted. "Mother… with that sort of power, with your combat proficiency and mastery of black arts she could wipe out the entire realm of monsters. Though I've yet to see Grandfather in true battle and what he's capable of, but her display was amazing."

Moka thought silently to herself as she continued along.

"I'm proud to be your daughter." Moka lit up inwardly.

Tsukune observed her expression, wondering what exactly it was she thought about but than again that should be obvious. He said nothing as they continued along and all he could think about was how thankful he was that Bloodriver Akasha was on their side.

XXIsland of AeaeaXX

Ched Vlet paced anxiously about with an individual laid out over the table, who just so happened to also be one of Fairy Tale's recruits and with quite the bit of important information. And it was because of this that irritated Vlet so much. He was brought back to reality as a side door shot open.

"Vlet," Mordru stepped in. "You summoned for me."

"Yes, just where the hell have you been?!" Ched Vlet questioned.

"Out on business," Mordru looked him off and instead was with his eyes over Parasite. "So, what happened to him?"

Ched Vlet's body tensed at the question.

"I was hoping you could tell me?" Ched Vlet responded.

His pacing persisted for a little while longer before coming to a complete stop.

"We were in a meeting, Yoshii Kiria, General Ilon Kreing and myself. Parasite was in the process of unloading information on us and then… I don't know what you would call it, a seizure, complications but he dropped down and was unresponsive." Ched Vlet informed.

With this divulged to him, Mordru was with two fingers to his chin, thinking for a moment.

"Stand back," Mordru extended his arms.

His hands were positioned over Parasite with a glowing magical energy taking form.

"This might take a while." Mordru said.

XXHiklorhanXX

A few hours passed and she felt somewhat exhausted. The opening tournament event went well with various fighters putting their combat skills on display and advancing to the next round of qualifiers. Bloodriver Akasha had returned to her castle for the night. It was late and she figured she'd just rest up here, sleeping in her own bed and return to the capital first thing in the morning.

There was an undeniable grin over her lips that she couldn't quite shake, thinking back on the electric atmosphere of the event and couldn't be happier. It was off to her left that two maidens of the castle approached and bowed.

"Excuse us Akasha-sama, but there is someone here to see you."

The maiden pointed out towards the closes living room and Akasha walked out that way. Upon turning the corner she spotted him leaned back over an antique sofa with his hands folded while making eye contact with her.

"Bruce…" Akasha murmured.

"I'm sorry to show up unannounced, however…"

"It's no problem at all," Akasha smiled at him. "You're Sasha's father and so you can consider the Bloodriver castle your home away from home."

Standing from the sofa he approached her but stopped halfway.

"Have you talked to anyone since your opening performance?" Bruce asked.

Akasha quickly shook her head.

"Didn't have the opportunity to, there were other matters that called for my attention," Akasha's head lowered and her gaze over the ground. "I know everyone must have a lot of questions."

Bruce's nodded while crossing his arms.

"Then I'll be the first to ask… what was that? For how long have you had it? I'm still new to this all, sensing monster energies and what not, and it's the first time I witnessed you like that since my turning." Bruce said.

"That, hehe do you refer to Wealth of power?" Akasha questioned.

"Sure, if that's what you call it." Bruce replied.

She looked him off for a moment while circling around.

"Truth be told, not a single person knew about that power… not even father." Akasha said.

Bruce's eyes narrowed, finding that quite intriguing.

"And to be honest even I didn't know, not until maybe six years ago." Akasha said.

"Six years ago?" Bruce raised an eyebrow.

"Yes. That's when I felt the changes in my body which allowed me to finally take hold of, use it. That said I do believe it was actually a year before that when it began manifesting inside me. But it was like a small cut; a void if you will that I didn't connect with until…"

"One year later. Then so these changes, this power forced its way to the surface." Bruce said.

Immediately the empress shook her head.

"Yes and no. There's two parts to this. The source of that power had been inside me for quite some time actually," Akasha looked Bruce directly in the eyes. "As you know I allowed myself to be devoured by Alucard at the end of the seven day war and used black arts to stop him. But our blood combined and synchronized during the one hundred seventy years I was inside him. We essentially became one in the same."

Mouth slightly dropping open, Bruce nodded with an understanding.

"Than the power you just displayed was that of his… a small portion." Bruce said.

"That's right. When our blood combined and synchronized his potential in power also became my own. All those hundreds of thousands of monsters he devoured, adding to his power. It's almost hard to believe he wasn't even remotely scratching at his surface in strength during the seven day war, so much of his power still masked as he had yet to awaken all max potential of those consumed." Akasha said.

"And you knew this, that's why you allowed yourself to be devoured so that you could shut him down before that potential was discovered?" Bruce questioned.

"Correct. He would have wiped out all of the monster world and humans if he saw fit and no one would have been capable of stopping him. There was nothing or no one that could oppose him. Your super team was far from coming into existence… if I hadn't done what I did…"

Bruce walked up on Akasha lowering a hand over her shoulder.

"You were not only this realm's hero, but all of man kind. I couldn't ask for a better woman to be the mother of my daughter." Bruce said.

Akasha blushed at this, but kept her composer as there was more.

"So that's the source, but… but it wasn't until like I said seven years back that I had the ability to remotely tap into it." Akasha said.

For a moment Bruce backed off from her and went completely quiet in deep thought. But then that's when something came to him and he reached out with both hands over her shoulders.

"Bruce, what is it?" Akasha asked.

"At what moment did you realize? Try and think back to specifics. Were you asleep, training, feeding or…"

"That's it!" Akasha shouted, cutting him off. "Yes, it was just after a an intense routine."

"What were you doing at the time?" Bruce asked.

"Meditation. Calming my mind, combining all my senses, body, soul and spirit. And that's when the small ripple began to put in simpler terms." Akasha said.

He again backed away from her, but this time with his back against the wall.

"Hhhhmmm." Bruce sighed with his chin down over his fist.

"What is it?" Akasha asked.

There was much to consider, but what captivated him most was timing and the mention of spirit and soul. Right away he knew exactly what he needed to do. This reveal in itself was quite extraordinary, but it also had the potential to answer so many questions he had; questions about himself. Half a grin appeared over his face as unexpectedly he shot forward with his arms wrapped around Akasha. He embraced the pinkette in a tight hug.

"Bruce." Akasha murmured, her entire face flushed in a bright shade of red.

In just a few moments he pulled back and kissed at her lips.

"Thank you." Bruce ran a hand over the side of her face.

"For what?" Akasha spoke softly looking him in the eyes.

"For a peace of mind." Bruce stepped back.

Quickly he reached into his pocket and a small device held out in his hand.

"What's that?" the Dark Lord questioned.

"In my database is your blood from seven years ago, in addition to Moka's. I might just have an answer to the irregularities which occurred in you. But I'll first need an updated sample." Bruce said.

She looked him over curiously.

"On what merit, tell me what you're thinking." Akasha replied.

"You'll know soon as I do. It shouldn't taken long." Bruce replied.

With a nod, Akasha extended her arm and revealing her wrist to him. He quickly took hold of her hand and stabbed the needle into her flesh as blood was drawn. And with that he dropped the item back into his pocket.

"Than I'll be on my way now." Bruce said.

He took only a few steps before Akasha seized hold of his hand.

"Are you sure? It could wait till morning. Do you want to, you know… maybe stay the night?" Akasha bit at her lower lip.

Bruce smiled but pulled away.

"Sorry, this can't wait much as I'd like to." Bruce replied.

He continued on passed her but stopped before turning the corner.

"Akasha," he looked back at her over his shoulder. "I want to take you out for dinner."

"Dinner? Do you mean…"

"Let's try this again. A date, yes. Your schedule is impossible I'm sure, but if you find the time I'd like to make it happen." Bruce replied.

"Absolutely!" Akasha shot.

The pink haired vampire immediately forced both hands over her mouth realizing she came off as far too overly excited.

"I'll see you soon." Bruce said as he took off.

Akasha stood in place without making a move before resting a hand over her heart. Sleeping with her was one thing, but this felt different. Him taking the initiative asking her out on a date, and if she heard him right he wanted to try with her again?! Her heart pounded uncontrollably and she felt over joyed. For a few moments she stood there daydreaming.

"Your highness, is everything okay?"

Akasha turned facing one of her maidens.

"Everything is perfect. Could you be a dear and start me a hot bath?" Akasha inquired.

"It would be my pleasure."

XXElsewhereXX

Another few hours passed. It was inside her secret medical center that the purple haired vampire worked with another standing behind her and observing. It was five different blood samples that she worked on for the past two hours and a half and the test results were finally in.

Everything was posted over a small computer screen and the individual standing behind the medic joined her in front of those said screens.

"A one represents Akasha's blood from your stored database from seven years back. A Two is her current, M one represents Moka, S one, Sasha and of course B one for you Mister Wayne." Selene pointed out.

The two of them observed everything closely together.

"And as you can see, there is really no significant difference to a single of the samples. I don't know what you were expecting." Selene looked to him.

He didn't respond and silently deliberated to himself.

"Yes, perhaps… but there's something I'd like to try first if possible." Bruce looked to her.

"Speak, I'm certain that whatever it is can be done." Selene said.

"Right," Bruce nodded. "Akasha mentioned to me that the connection with this hidden ripple was felt during meditation. That technique you taught me."

Selene eyed him for a moment but just as quickly looked him off.

"I see what you're getting at, you're wondering if perhaps that technique could be a triggering factor and or key to igniting the something in the blood?" Selene questioned.

"More or less." Bruce replied.

And for a moment there Selene extensively looked around with her eyes falling over a certain section.

"There," she pointed out. "Help me move each separate sample to those panels."

With a quick nod he did exactly that, taking hold of three while Selene gathered the rest and each was placed over its own separate panel. And with each panel there was a built in system that connected directly with a larger platform with a strange symbol over it.

"Okay then Mister Wayne, I shall allow you the honor." Selene gestured for him to step forward.

"What is it you'd like me to do?" Bruce questioned.

"Exactly what it is you suggested. Settle yourself over the platform and work your magic. The rest will take care of itself." Selene said.

Without asking he knew what he needed to do. Moving forward Bruce lowered himself in the mid section of the circle. His eyes were closed while he went right into a meditative state. And during this time Selene observed the different samples for any changes.

Nothing came immediately but that wasn't for long when he dove deeper and the energy aura around his body surfaced and that's when she saw it, the change in not one, not two but three of the blood samples.

"Stop it, stop!" Selene said aloud.

Bruce's eyes immediately shot open removing himself from his seated position and standing. Removing himself off the platform he stepped back positioning next to Selene. The three blood samples that had taken on a visible change was that of the sample he'd just received from the Dark Lord, his own and Sasha's.

"Wha… what is that?" Bruce questioned.

Selene bit back and even she didn't know. Taking several steps forward she took a closer look at the samples, observing what looked to be a strange glow and peculiar matter that engulfed the samples.

"This… I've never seen anything like this. But I just might be able to determine what exactly we're looking at. If you could Mister Wayne, return to the platform and continue. For the most accurate results I'll need your energy and spirit's combined flow to continue." Selene said.

"Understood." Bruce said.

Returning to his position he did exactly that. Selene on the other hand recovered supplies and additional equipment from the other side of the room out of a storage closet. Afterwards she returned to the blood samples. She extracted smaller samples from the larger ones and got them under a specialized transmission electronic microscope.

With this she observed everything more closely and specifically was observing her master's sample, Bloodriver Akasha. Each blood cell was flaring, and appeared to have more density than previous samples of shinso blood she studied. With a huge book and pad of notes on the side. But even with all of that, nothing covered what she was observing and looked over with her own two eyes.

This went on for quite some time before she summoned Bruce to stand and remove himself from the platform.

"Well?"

Those were the first words out of his mouth.

"I don't have a tone of answers, but what I do know from my past findings and archive, that whatever it is… that strange matter found in the blood of my master, the child and yourself is working as some sort of anchor in aiding with your power usage." Selene said.

Bruce kept quiet while she continued.

"Now it's all starting to make sense. Your overly high levels in strength as a newly turned and even more so when you awakened your wealth of power. I believed it all to be tied to the peak abilities you reached as a human, and to an extent that might be true but this is the prime reason." Selene said.

"That said, I don't know the source, how or why…" Selene said.

That's when Bruce cleared his throat and stepped forward.

"I believe I do." Bruce said.

Selene's eyes broadened.

"Explain." Selene shot.

"It's all about timing," Bruce looked the medic off and began pacing. "Akasha claimed to have felt the change in herself seven years back give or take. And I'm willing to bet that unidentified matter, effecting our blood is because of Akasha's doing."

Selene raised an eyebrow.

"What are you getting at?" Selene asked.

"Inside the chamber of Vheuto Lazz. Akasha not only attempted to unlock an entire realm, but also closed it." Bruce came to a stop.

Selene's mouth right away dropped open.

"All that power stemming from what is between our world and Zelliatos! Akasha-sama's body was engulfed and affected by it!"

"Bingo, a large portion of that energy force combined with her being, hence allowing Akasha the ability to tap into much more of her true potential. And in turn she would later go on to infuse her blood into Sasha after birth and then Sasha to me." Bruce said.

"I see, so that's why the three of you are the only ones affected. But what does it mean, are you…"

"No, I don't think a single of us are in any danger. That energy consumed by Akasha's body isn't the result of the power we saw earlier tonight. That power was always stored inside her, and there's a lot more where that came from." Bruce said.

"You aren't making any sense Wayne…" Selene appeared baffled.

"As I said before I believe Vheuto Lazz in some shape or form affected both her spirits energy flow, levels and blood in a way that works as a helping hand. His power is also hers, the moment she sealed herself away inside him." Bruce said.

In shock, having an idea of where he was going with this, she bit at her tongue.

"Alucard. As you know, her blood combined with and synchronized with his and so to did Akasha gain his max potential of all those he devoured." Bruce said.

"This… this is insane!" Selene said.

"Akasha as you knew her operating at full strength in all reality wasn't fighting at even a percent of her true potential thanks to her connection with Alucard. And that isn't all. This is probably stating the obvious but Aono Tsukune, Moka, Sasha and myself all share that same ceiling." Bruce said.

Taking this all in Selene thought she might faint but kept a clear head thinking everything over. Yes, Akasha's blood had been synchronized with Alucard at the conclusion of the the war in defeating him. And over a century later her daughter was born who would also receive this blood, and then Tsukune who Moka turned! Yes, everything was starting to paint a picture. There were five living vampires carrying the said potential of the greatest of them to walk the monster world.

In that moment the vampire medic could feel nothing but fright. Her master wasn't the issue, as Akasha had lived so many centuries it was more than clear the type of person she was. But what about the others?! What if one of them unintentionally through life and experiences grew dark intent and became a more powerful monster than the mighty king himself?! And than there was Apollo. How would he react to this revelation if it was brought to his attention.

As of now Tsukune, nor Moka had the anchor or means to tap into the said power but who was to say there wasn't an alternative to doing so? And that left Wayne and young Sasha. The medic took a deep breath trying to think positively. Sasha was Akasha's daughter and if things played out as Selene hoped the Dark Lord and Dark Knight would tie the knot at some point.

If that happened she certainly could rest easier knowing someone with the longevity and understanding to living as a shinso vampire would be at his side. That and their potential love for one another would bring light to both their worlds and in that scenario the probability of a repeat Alucard would be little to none.

"Selene, are you okay?" Bruce questioned, inspecting the far away look in her eyes.

"Yes," she smiled at him. "That was quite a bit to take in is all. So what now?" Selene asked.

"I want to first confirm my hypothesis with someone. A demon who aided me seven years ago. I believe she can state any potential repercussions to what Akasha did, if any and if there's anything else I should be aware of." Bruce said.

"Who?" Selene asked.

"Aaneya. She provided me with safeguarding my spirit once upon a time. The Monarchy of Essence." Bruce said.

"Where can we find her?" Selene asked.

"Jason Blood. He'll get me to her. You needn't worry about a thing. I'll take it from here." Bruce said.

To be continued