Matsuho paced backwards and forwards in front of her throne, anger rolling off her in torrents; all those in the room with her kept their eyes cast down, fearing her wrath if they so much as looked at her.
"I want the Grand General, Spy Master and the Commanders of the Legions to meet me in the war room now!" shouting out to the room, servants left swiftly. Things were changing due to her enemies being aware of her order to have them exterminated, now she needed to adapt, or everything would come crushing down.
'I've spent too long for this to be ruined.' Mindset she vanished.
Rain hammered down on every surface, thunder and lightning flashed and rumbled through the ominous clouds above. Matsuho walked sedately down a deserted street, Amegakure's hidden guardians remained oblivious to her presence. Stopping in front of a seedy tavern, she walked in; the stench of alcohol assaulted her nostrils making her grimace at the smell. The patrons were just as seedy looking as the place they occupied, all eyes were on her as she lowered her hood. Ignoring those looks, she made her way over to the bar looking at the bar stool disdainfully before sitting gingerly on it. Moments later a gruff looking bartender approached her.
"What can I get you princess?" his voice just as ragged as his looks, as he leered at her.
"A bottle a sake, with a clean cup." She sneered back, making her displeasure known, yet unsurprisingly it went right over his head.
"As you say princess." Giving her a mocking bow, then turned to get her order. The eyes of the other patrons still watched her. A man and a woman shared a looked then made their way over to the demon, both slung an arm over her cloaked shoulders.
"Now, what's a pretty girl like you doing in a place like this." The stale smell of alcohol hitting her hard, her face scrunching up as a result.
"Leave me be." Matsuho said as neutrally as possible, but just like the barman, they did not get it.
"Ohhh, don't be like that sugar." Came the woman's voice, "We're just talking to ya."
"I'm not interested in what you want. Now again, leave me be." Her tone taking on a harder edge, pouring a cup of sake, it was snatched before her elegant hands could reach for it.
"Now, that's not very nice now is it." Said the woman as she drank the booze in one go, her counterpart, leaning in closer to the demons' body, a hand running up and down her back, until it settled on her arse, giving it a squeeze.
"What do you say you, me and my beautiful partner take you somewhere else, and show you a good time?" the temperature dropped drastically, condensation covered every window and metal surface. Everyone's neck hairs stood on end, the other patrons sat ridged with fear, unable to flee the establishment.
"You want to show me a good time?" Matsuho said calmly, giving a seductive smile to the man as she gracefully got off the stool. The barman began to speak but was cut off with the hard look he got from those soulless eyes, his own widened as he recognised who she was. The rough looking woman began to caress the demon as well, the seductive smile never leaving her lips. Matsuho looked between the two humans, sensually, she raised her hands, running her manicured fingers up and down their faces and necks. As they started to lose themselves in the sensation, her hands clamped around their necks, with a sharp twist she snapped their necks, letting the humans go watching with satisfaction as they dropped unceremoniously to the floor. Paying the bodies, no mind, Matsuho returned to her seat.
"Another bottle and cup." She ordered as if nothing happened, this time the bartender did not even give another leering look. Her drink and cup were placed in front of her.
"Is there anything else, my Lady?" he asked, trying to keep the fear out of his voice.
"I would like to see the Head Shadow."
"Of course, I'll summon him." With that he went, leaving her to her drink, none of the other occupants dared look at her, of fear of ending up like the other two.
Twenty minutes passed before the tavern owner returned.
"They are in the second room on the right."
"Thank you." Raising once again from her seat, she made her way to the room, without knocking she entered, sitting causally near the window was the Head Shadow; all dressed in black, only the eyes could be seen.
"Matsuho-sama, what a pleasant surprise." They said, both female and male sounding. "What can I do for you?"
"I need five of your top Shadows."
"Ohh. That's going to cost you."
"Your fee is of no concern to me."
"And what exactly will you need them for?"
"They will be trained as my Hands, to undertake a mission that they'll most likely not return from."
"A suicide missions. Those we do not do. Assassinations yes, not suicide."
"It's assassinations they will be used for. It is their intended targets that will most likely kill them. That's why I want your best five to work as a unit."
"Who are your intended targets?"
"Three, Five, Six, Seven and Eight tailed beasts."
"I'm sorry, but for a moment I thought I heard you say tailed beasts?"
"I did."
"No disrespect Matsuho-sama, but that is impossible. They cannot be killed, their hosts yes, but them no."
"My dear Head Shadow, they can. Three of them have already been wiped from existence."
"Say for a moment I believe you. What will you do with them?"
"They'll come with me and be trained to be my Hands."
"And only loyal to you."
"How much do you want?"
"Something like that will have to be thought about carefully. You'll have my answer in three days." Inclining their head to Matsuho, who mimicked the gesture.
"Very well." With that she left the room, and back out into the dismal weather.
The sun rose on the second day, early morning bird calls filled the city; already the city was alive with merchants and food stalls, stocked and ready for another day of trading.
The Purple Dragon stood over a map of the demon world; boarders, cities and villages all were marked with different colours. Mini flags occupied the map showing where her armies were currently. Turning to see who walked through the door as it creaked opened. The Grand General and the Commanders of the Legions walked in, each taking their place around the map.
"Thank you for coming at such short notice. I'm aware the Twelfth, Sixteenth and the Fifth Legions are currently engaged with what remains Matatabi's forces." Indicating to the legions second in commands, "What is the current status of the battle?"
"They've dug in deep, in this region." Responded the Fifths second, using a pointer to indicate the area the battle was taking place. "As you can see, they have chosen the area carefully, keeping their rears protected due to the mountain range. But this also is their downfall, as there is no way out of those mountains."
"Who is leading their defences?" Asked the General as both she and Matsuho observed the surrounding area.
"Grand General Brolraniz." Both demons looked up at her as she said that name.
"He's a bore of a man, but his reputation is well earned." The General said, a hint of respect coloured her words as she spoke of the man. "I would advise caution when fighting against his men; they are well trained and seasoned veterans."
"Agreed." Matsuho said as she turned her attention to the three second in commands. "I want scouting parties to do a furrow sweep of those mountains, Brolraniz isn't stupid he would've chosen that area for a reason."
"Those mountains boarder Chōmei's domain." The Spy Master supplied pointing to the border line, "There's a village at its base, also from what information I have, there's a military camp here." Placing a coloured marker in the rough area of the camp.
"I need more than that, Spy Master." Matsuho said with a hint of displeasure, "I need definites not maybes due to incomplete information."
"I've deployed all my agents Mistress, but it'll take time for that information to be collected, decoded and catalogued."
"I don't need excuses. You should have said, instead of continuing as you have been." Disappointment gave way to displeasure. "I expected more from you, Spy Master."
Agent Deserus bolted upright sweat streaming down his face, the cool night air drifting lazily through the open window. The pounding of his blood hammered against his eardrums; his breathing laboured as though he just ran for miles. A tingling sensation registered in his right hand, shakily he brought it up to eye level, staring disbelievingly at the intricate pattern and symbols that were etched on his palm; the same as The Heart of the Last Light. Shakily he traced the patterns, heart still pounding in his ears.
"What is happening." He breathed out, jumping slightly at the sound of rustling fabric next to him.
"What's wrong?" groggily asked his bonded, as he sat up yawning widely, sleepily rubbing his eyes.
"Nothing." The agent said back as he laid back down turning away from his other half. The other male watched his bonded for a few seconds, seeing the sweat that covered his body.
"Bullshit." He huffed but knew better than anyone to not push his husband. Laying back down he spooned the other male wrapping his arms around him, kissing the back of the others neck. "You know you can talk to me Des." He whispered feeling the other draw his arms tighter around him.
"I know." Interlocking their hands together, giving them an appreciative squeeze. Deserus felt his bonded's breathing deepen as sleep reclaimed him, but sleep eluded him for the rest of the night; by the time his mind calmed down and exhaustion made itself know, dawn broke over the horizon signalling him to get up for his next assignment. Expertly he untangled himself from the embrace and started his morning routine; half an hour later he heard movement from the bedroom signalling his husband was up and about. It was the same every day; a steaming cup of tea sat on the table along with a bowl of porridge ready for the other person.
"Morning." The agent said to his husband as the other man sat down at the table.
"Fuck off." He grunted, clutching the cup of tea reverently, breathing in the fumes, blowing on it, then sighing happily at the taste. Silence fell over the table as one started their breakfast while the other finished. Deserus got up depositing his dirty dishes in the sink, ignoring the persistent sensation coming from his right hand.
"You're clutching your hand again." The other said, making the agent jump letting go of the itching hand. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing." Deserus said neutrally, putting on his gloves, a hand caught his wrist stopping him from covering up the markings.
"Bullshit." Both stared at each other daringly, challenging the other to defy them. This lasted for several minutes, finally the agent folded, allowing his bonded to remove the glove completely. A sharp intake of breath followed. "Who did this to you?"
"No one." Snatching his hand and glove back, covering the evidence. "I'm going to be late." With that he left without looking back, the slamming of the door signalled for the other not to follow.
"Stubborn arse." He muttered as he himself got ready for work.
Slipping into an alleyway, Deserus flicked up his hood and made his way through the bustling city.
As Deserus began the ascent to Matsuho's palace, faint whispering drifted around him, growing louder with every step he took; the unpleasant sensation grew stronger in his right hand.
'This can't be happening now! Not where the guards can see.'
Spotting a small gap between the last set of buildings before the main viaduct, he slipped into the opening, allowing the shade the buildings produced to mask his form. Further down he went until he was certain he was hidden enough, he turned his back to the mouth of the opening, uncovering the offending hand. Warm hazel eyes stared disbelievingly at the hand; all the symbols and detailed patterns on his palm were glowing faintly. Hesitantly he traced the patterns starting on the outer portion, working his way inwards. Reaching the centre, the voices got louder, too many to truly hear what they were saying, as he finished mimicking the last symbol a couple of vivid images flashed through his mind.
A bright ball of light high in the darkening sky.
A long blue piece of fabric falling to the floor.
As soon as the images hit, they disappeared along with the constant whispering, it took him a moment to realise his breathing was coming out in short shallow pants, while his heart hammered against his chest. Slumping against the building, sliding down till he reached the dirty floor, unable to move, cold sweat running down the back of his neck.
A subtle ripple in the surrounding air alerted him that he was no longer alone. A calming hand rested gently on his head.
"Are you alright Deserus?" the deep baritone of his supervisor cut through his muddled mind.
"Yeah, just a little nauseous." The younger agent replied as he got himself off the ground, using the wall as support.
"Are you…"
"No." shaking his head, "I'm not pregnant." a hint of sadness and self-loathing coloured his voice. "You know I'm unable to carry, due to that incident."
"It still eats me up. I should've found another way." The older agent mumbled, heavy with remorse.
"There was no other way. It was my choice." A heavy silence hung over the pair, lost in the memories of that mission. "What's the assignment?" he asked, breaking the heavy silence.
"An expedition to the Old World." Switching to team leader mode instantly, "It's a six-month assignment, so prepare accordingly. We'll depart at first light in two days on the north east road." Receiving a nod in understanding the older demon watched his subordinate leave, regret heavy in his heart.
Loose gravel crunched and shifted under armoured feet, as soldiers moved through the high mountain passages. The wind whispered through cracks and crevasse, causing a symphony of low whistles to resonate through the air. Braziers emitted light and warmth for the men and women that walked past or huddled around them. A burly man stood stoically, gazing unflinching out at the army that surrounded the mighty mountain basin.
"General." a soldier said as they approached the man, snapping to attention.
"What is it?" not taking his eyes of the enemy below.
"We believe we have found it." A hint of hope coloured her voice. "The references were vague and, in some places misleading, but we have it."
"Procced with caution. We may not have that much time left before the enemy engages." His calculating eyes shifting from one mass activity to another.
"At your command." Saluting, she turned on her heel, leaving the man alone.
Deep within the mountain, buried under meters of solid rock, a small contingent of troops cautiously ventured, following a forgotten path. The air stale and stagnated, only moving with the passing soldiers. Deeper they ventured, faded depictions came to life with the glow of their torches. Some depicted simple scenes, while others had broken writing. Further they ventured until the path came to a dead end.
"Damn it!" exclaimed the commander, "We came all this way for nothing!" shoving his way through the clumped soldiers. "We double back and try to find another way in." Taking the lead, he began to retrace their steps. Following his lead, the others turned and walked after him; just as the last soldier was about to leave, a gentle breeze stroked her cheek. Pausing briefly, she turned, eyes darting around trying to find where it came from. All was still, believing it was just her imagination, she turned to rejoin her comrades something moved passed her making her wheel back around her blade in hand posed ready to fight. Standing in front of her was a faint outline of a hooded person.
"Who are you?" she asked, body falling into a posed stance, ready to strike or defend. The hooded figure did not react to her question, standing there for a moment before walking over to one of the walls. Trained eyes followed the movement, her body moving to face the unknown. Reaching the wall, the faint silhouette raised a hand and began to press against the wall. As the silhouette's hand moved from one point of the stone face to another, faint blue symbols emerged. The young soldier watched as the last symbol glowed, the hooded being looked over its shoulder before walking towards the wall that stops the path, and with one final look over its shoulder, it walked through the wall disappearing to the other side. As the hooded figure passed the threshold, the symbols on the wall faded.
The Matatabian stood frozen, her brain trying to process what had just happen. After a moment she regained her composure, letting out the breath she did not realise she was holding in. Dropping her guard ever so slightly she matched the silhouettes footsteps; now she faced the same wall, inspecting it more closely. There, ever so subtle indentations of an array of symbols, etched into the smooth stone. Removing her helmet, setting it down on the floor, she blew on the etchings, kicking up the dust and dirt that obscured them. Instinctively screwing her eyes shut as the muck swirled around her, making her cough. After her self-induced coughing fit, she returned to examine the newly revealed symbols that filled that portion of the wall.
Impulsively she reached up pressing on one of the symbols, it responded by glowing blue. A breathy laugh left her lips as she looked on amazed that it worked.
"What the bloody hell are you doing, Private?!" shouted the commander, causing the young private to jump around, eyes wide, sword ready to fight. The rest of the squad formed a semicircle around their commander all looking at her.
"I…" she began, getting her heart back into her chest.
"You what?" impatiently asked the commander, giving her a hard look.
"I believe I've found the entrance." Sheathing her sword, snapping to attention.
"Oh really?" disbelief evidence in his voice, cocking his head, lips going thin. "Well, where's this magical entrance then?" gesturing around the area. The private bit her lip to stop her from saying something that would get her in a shit ton of trouble. Stubbornly, she pivoted on her heel, to face the wall once again; the symbol that was previously aglow was not, so once again she pressed it. All eyes were on her as she went through the sequence of symbols, pausing several times as she tried to remember which ones.
Finally, as she pressed the final symbol, the wall that blocked the way began to fade out of existence, revealing a path ahead. A sense of achievement washed through her, as she watched the wall dissipate. Throwing a quick look at her commanding officer, she started to walk the newly exposed path. The tunnel was much wider than the previous ones, far cooler, the air sweet to the senses. Not paying any attention to the sound of her group catching up, the young private followed the path, as she walked every so often, she saw the hooded figure walking the same path as them. As they walked deeper, the air became cooler and far sweeter, carrying the scent of flowers. After a few more minutes the sound of rushing water echoed throughout the tunnel; the sound getting steadily louder as they reached the mouth of the tunnel.
The Matatabian came to a halt, eyes wide with wonder.
"Bloody hell." She breathed out in wonder, glancing at her comrades as they too stood in disbelief and wonder.
Before them was a vast cavern; waterfalls pouring down into lakes and rivers that littered the area. Above them the full moon shone through a massive opening in the roof, its silver rays making everything shine an ethereal silver. Trees and plants filled the land, voices of insects filled the air, fireflies danced on the wind that flowed freely, melding all the scents into a sweet aroma. Among the variety of plant and wildlife derelict structures and statues littered the place; in the centre of it ran a moss-covered paved path, flanked by ruined columns and statues, all leading to a temple.
While looking around, the young soldier notices the figure walking towards a river that ran nearby. Just like before she followed the figure, as she reached the riverbank, she watched as the figure picked lotuses that lined the water's edge. Apprehensively, she began doing the same; the only sign of her nerves was the trembling of her hands.
"This place gives me the creeps." Muttered one of the group, looking round, watching the shadows. "I feel like we're being watched." A shiver ran down his spine.
Again, like before the echo faded, reappearing walking towards a brazier that sat at the base of a crumpled statue. The young women watched as the shadow dropped a lotus flower into the brazier, after a few seconds it erupted into ethereal blue flames, then moved onto the next one. Getting the message, she followed ghosts' footsteps, reaching the first brazier and statue that stood behind it. No longer looking as it once did.
"What the hell do you think you're doing, Private?" ordered the commander, walking hastily after his subordinate, gripping a hold of her arm.
"Lighting the way sir." She replied nodding towards the aged brazier. Dropping a lotus into the basin. Nothing happened. She could not understand why, when the ghost done it.
"Sir!" shouted one of the soldiers, making both of them to look in their direction. There, approaching the small group, were several spectral warriors, their weapons drawn.
"Get ready to attack!" shout the commander letting the other go, making his way to his troops. "Stand ready! Protect each other!" with that they engaged the warriors.
Sounds of blades clashing and grinding against each other filled the air, as the two sides fought. The young Private dropped the lotuses, ignoring where they fell and rushed to join her friends in combat.
The spectral warriors were steadily gaining the upper hand; even though strikes against them did nothing, their weapons however were real. In a matter of minutes, they had beaten the Matatabians into the ground; their weapons ripped from their hands, bodies battered and bruised and bleeding. The spectral warriors gathered them up, forcing them to their kneels, swords at each of their throats.
The sound of heavy footsteps got gradually closer, until it entered their vison; a bulky warrior wielding two massive swords on its back. As this beast of a warrior approached, it trampled several lotuses under its heavy weight. This caused the brute to pause mid step, raising the foot revealing the crushed flowers. For a few minutes it looked down at the destroyed flowers then noticing the one that lay at the bottom of the brazier. Reaching into the metal basin, scooping it up from its resting place, examining it before looking at the kneeling Matatabians. With the flower still in its grasp, it made its way over to them.
Nothing happened as the spectral warrior looked at each of them.
"Si'ae jisvidaegi phij lyaes?" asked the heavy warrior, throwing down the lotus in front of them.
"We don't understand." breathed out the commander, his breath hitching as his throat was nicked by the resting blade.
"Si'ae jisvidaegi phij lyaes?!" the warrior shouted out more forcefully, unsheathing one of his massive blades stabbing it into the ground next the flower.
"Sir?" stuttered one of the soldiers, his eyes darting from the brute to his commanding officer.
"Now's not the best time private." The other answered trying not to get anyone killed.
"But, sir. It sounds like Iosaric. Or a root of it anyway." The other said, trying to dig through his memories to try and translate, what was shouted at them.
"Well?!" the blade pushing harder against his throat. "Anytime now private!"
"It asked who was…" he trailed off, trying to remember what 'jisvidaegi' meant. Muttering the word repeatedly, desperately trying to jog his memory. "Responsible!" he shouted out happily, causing the others to jump slightly.
"Private!"
"They want to know who was responsible for the flower." He replied confidently, a smile on his bloodied face.
"For fuck sake! Tell them!" the commander snapped back. The smile and confidence that the younger man felt evaporated as quickly as it came.
"Is that really the best idea?"
"Just fucking tell them!" taking a shaky breath the other man shakily raised his arm and pointed to his female counterpart.
"Yij." Turning to look at the female, the spectre jerked its head signalling for the other warrior to haul the female to her feet.
"Yist vi fina dist eyinl lyi jaeli iph Lyi Kivviss Iph Lstaegaekyl?" terrified eyes darted to her comrade, looking for help.
"I haven't a clue." The other supplied, "I only know a small amount."
"Thanks." She replied sarcastically, looking back to the heavy warrior. Taking a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "I was shown." Not liking the answer, the brute stepped right into her personal space, crowding her. Terrified eyes darted around looking for help; a cold hand grabbed her chin, forcing her to look at the towering warrior.
"Fina yeoi ljivessiv id Serjiv Kjvidvs. Fina ae'i ed idirf. Si fin vaei." the sentence was completed with the unsheathing of the other massive blade. "Phaedi vieri aed lyi ejrs iph lyi Kivs." The feeling of the blades point pressing against her abdomen, tears began to run down her cheeks. Movement caught her tear-filled eyes just pass the assailant elbow; the shadow from earlier stood looking in their direction.
"Them!" she said pointing desperately at the ghost, "They showed me how!"
Craning its head around to look at what the demon was pointing at. Several tense minutes passed; the other warriors were looking in the same direction. The cold hand that held her chin loosened; the blade at her stomach returned to its holster.
"Jigiesi lyir." It ordered moving away from the group, the other spectral warriors released their hostages before disappearing. "Stel' aed lyi Lstaegaekyl." Bowing to the group then disappearing, leaving the Matatabians alone.
The commander went to each of his subordinates making sure they were okay. Receiving confirmation from those, he turned to the rooted private. Reaching her, he gripped her arm pulled her around to face him then embraced her. It took a while for the embrace to register in her mind, and just like a floodgate opening, she embraced him back, tightly, tears streaming down her face.
"I thought I was going to lose you." He whispered, planting a chaste kiss on her forehead. They remained like that for a while, whispering sweet nothings to each other.
"Sorry to interrupt, but we really need to proceed with our mission." Both looked over to the group, sparing each other a glance, pulling slowly away. The young female hastily wiping the tears away. "I take it the lotuses are needed for something. Given how that thing reacted."
"Yeah. They're to do with the braziers." Sniffing less as she regained some control, "The flames should light blue when placed."
"How do you know that?"
"I had help."
"I know this might sound stupid but, shouldn't the braziers be lit for that to happen?" one of them asked.
Thinking for a moment the commander issued orders for everyone to collect wood and enough lotuses.
"Why are you going with it?" she asked confusion written over her tear stained face. The male looked at her with a smile.
"We're the squad that always gets the weird and wacky assignments." Laughing slightly, "So it's normal for us?" shrugging, walking off to help the rest of the team.
Within half an hour everything was coming together; the braziers that had toppled over time were upright. All they were filled with wood and set alight; the occasional popping sound merged with the symphony created by the wildlife. Everyone gathered around the first one, its warmth radiation through them.
"Ready?" the commander asked, placing a hand on the female's shoulder.
"Yeah." Taking a deep breath, she dropped the first lotus into the flames. Within an instance, the flames consumed the flower, turning blue. Becoming more confident by the result, they ventured down the path.
Reaching the final brazier at the foot of the temple, the last lotus flower fell into the flames, and just like the previous times, it burnt blue. Nothing seemed to happen, heads turning around trying to find something happening. Yet nothing.
"What now?"
"I honestly don't kn…" just like at the riverbank, the silhouette approached, standing beside her. Reaching into the flames with cupped hands, scooping up the flames, then turning, making its way up the cracked stone steps. Taking her hundredth deep breath, she mimicked the shadow, scooping her cupped hands into the flames.
"What the bloody hell do you think you're doing!" exclaimed a few of the closer troops, grabbing her arms, forcefully moving her away from the brazier. "Are you out of your fucking mind?" shaking her, eyes full of concern. Flickering blue light caught their eyes, looking down at the nestled flames.
"All I'm saying just for the record: This is the craziest thing we have ever done." The commander said as he turned away.
"Crazier than the time we destroyed that mountain range?" one supplied.
"Oh yea."
"Crazier than Sergeant Nicaras having to marry that giant ape?" said another.
"Yep." Silence followed while everyone tried to think of something else, that could be crazier than what they are doing now.
"He's probably right." Someone muttered, hating to admit it. "What now?" she inquired, looking at her friend.
"I suppose we make our way up the temple steps."
"Lead on." Moving to the side, watching her friend make her way to the base of the temple.
One step at a time, they made their way up the steep incline, doing their best to avoid the looser stone bricks. For ten minutes they climbed, finally reaching the top, some sat down catching their breaths.
"Wow." The youngest of their troop breathed out, as he looked out from their vantage point. This attracted everyone else, standing side by side. "It's beautiful."
"Take a moment to enjoy the view." Commented the commander, soaking it up. "Okay, moment over." Clapping his hands, "Lets finish what we were sent here to do." Turning around once again he cautiously began to explore the temple courtyard; time did not seem to have affected the courtyard or the temple itself, still there were signs of erosion here and there. Everyone spread out, checking the area; the entrance to the temple itself was three platforms higher. Each level had balconies, verandas, large communal areas with seating, along with a wide range of different statues, even a fountain or two. In the very centre of the main area, was a statue on top of a plinth. The statue depicted a women with her head bowed, kneeling with both hands cupped together, holding them out, as if begging.
"Found anything?!" the commander shouted, leaning over the top banister. Negative responses answered his question. "For love…!" slamming his hands on the stone banister in irritation. Down on the ground level, the young demon stood there, cradling the blue flames, hoping for the apparition to appear again. Yet it did not.
"What the hell do I do now." She muttered to herself, looking for anything that jumped out as a possibility. Her gaze kept returning to the statue, "I wonder." Tentatively she approached the statue, stopping just before the begging hands.
"Well. Here goes nothing." Resting her cupped hands inside the stone ones, then gently depositing the blue flames, stepping back once the transfer was complete. Nothing happened, the flames still flickered and danced in the breeze.
"Any luck?" asked her colleague with a hint of anticipation, standing beside her.
"None." She replied, letting out a long-defeated sigh. "I honestly thought that would work." Making a move to retrieve the flames; just as she went to scoop the flames out, she screamed out in pain, doubling over.
"Pala!" in seconds her colleague was at her side, easing her down to the floor. "Pala!" franticly trying to calm her friend. Sounds of rapid footsteps approached them.
"What the hell happened!" ordered the young male, dropping to his knees, trying to determine what was causing Pala soo much pain. Acting quickly, he placed his index and middle finger to her temple, they glowed white, within seconds she was rendered unconscious. "Help me lay her down." With the others help they got the unconscious demon laying down. By that time, the rest of the team were over, some breathing slightly heavy. The commander shoved his way through.
"Pala!" dropping down next to her, "What the hell happened!" looking at the two.
"She went to retrieve the flames from the statue. The next thing, she was screaming pain…" a sharp breath grabbed both of their attention; the young medic had removed some of her armour, revealing severely burnt hands; some parts were covered in a black crust. This trend continued up her arms and across her torso, heat was still radiating off her.
"We need to get her cooled." State the medic as he took out a portable stretcher from his backpack. "Nathill." Chucking it to the other demon, catching it with easy, he got to assembling it. Getting a 'done' from the other demon, he got himself ready. "Sera."
With great care, they deposited their injured comrade on to the stretcher, not having to be told, two other soldiers took their places on each pole, after a count of three, they lifted the stretcher of the ground and followed the medic down the temple stairs.
"She'll be fine." One of the remain soldiers said, as they all watch their team descent the stairs.
"I hope so." Replied the commander, turning away as the last of the team disappeared.
Outside the secret oasis, back up the winding paths, the remains of Matatabi's army readied themselves for a long and gruelling siege. Grand General Brolraniz and his commanders watched from their vantage point as Matsuho's army moved into position.
"So, it begins." turning around, "Tell the barrier teams to begin. Have Archers and the Artillery units ready on the second stage, while Light, Heavy and special units on the first stage." Looking each of his subordinates in the eye. "I'm not going to lie, but this will be long and bloody. Many of those who we have fought with, shared many memorable moments with, our friends, comrades will die, so will each of us." No one interrupted him, "But, out there are the bastards that have invaded our country! If I am going to die, I'm going to take as many of those bastards down with me!" Donning on his helmet.
"Get ready for battle!"
Back in the forgotten oasis, the small group of soldiers carrying Pala reached the river mouth near the roaring waterfall.
"This is a good enough place as any." Said Jonas as he unclasped his medical bag, placing it on the floor by his feet. The carriers lowered the stretcher, then moving to give the medic room to work. "Sera, start stripping Pala down." While Sera got to work, Jonas took much of his own armour off, giving him more freedom. "Give me a hand to get her into the water." Between them, they lifted Pala up, making their way steadily into the crystal-clear water. The temperature of the water making it self-known, as goose bumps erupted all over their skin.
"Here will do." Reaching an area, that was deep enough for what he wanted but, close enough to the riverbank. "On the count of three, we're going to lower her into the water. Then I want you to simply help her natural buoyancy, keeping her head above the water." Getting a nervous nod, Jonas proceeded to count to three, and on the third count they did what was said.
"All right? You got her?" he asked removing his own arms when he received another nervous nod. As gently as possible, he began his examination of the full extent of her injuries. Her injuries were more extreme than first noticed. "By the Gods." He breathed out, following the burns and in some cases charcoaled skin, all up her arms, and down to her navel.
"Let's get her back to the bank, so I can get to work." Carrying Pala between them, they returned to their original spot. As they got back, the area had been set up for them; a decent fire was going along with Jonas's medic supplies arranged neatly. A smile breaking out as he took in the area. Laying Pala down on the blanket next a few feet away, where its warmth was a gentle crest, Jonas got to work. Sera stepped back, making her way over to the fire, sitting heavily down she began to remove her armour.
"You almost look like a drown rat." Joked one of the remain soldiers, as he knelt next to her, giving a hand. In return he received the middle finger, and a look that conveyed the message loud and clear. He chuckled, completely unfazed by it, working together the removed all her armour. She shoved him away when he started laughing at the sound coming from her boots.
"So mature." He laughed even harder as she struggled getting the final boot off, dragging the wet sound out. "Will you fuck off." A smile and laughter threating to break free, chucking the offending boot at him, with him easily dodging it. She watched him disappear somewhere, getting more comfortable, relishing the warmth the fire provided. A few moments went by in relative silence, getting lost in the dancing flames. She flinched slightly at the feeling of a blanket being draped over her shoulders. "Thanks." Giving her counterpart a smile. He returned it sitting himself next to her.
"How's Jonas doing?" she asked after several peaceful minutes.
"Well, he hasn't called us for help." He replied looking over to where the medic was working, "You know how he works. He'll do what he can with what he's got." Looking back into the flames, "I honestly don't know how he manages to have all that stuff in that bag." Chuckling to himself, "I swear its bigger on the inside than the outside."
"Well, we could always try getting in it."
"Now, that would be funny." Lapsing in a comfortable silence.
"Nathill."
"There we go." Getting up, shooting the other a smile, he made his way over standing beside the younger male. "What do you need?"
"I need you to support Pala while I apply this paste to her back." Moving out of the others way so he could get into position, gently supporting the female. He watched Jonas work, daftly applying the paste, his movements speaking of confidence, but also with care. A pungent smell began to waft up, making him wrinkle his nose.
"What the hell is that stuff?" unable to keep his disgust from showing. Jonas glanced at him, before returning his attention to the application of the paste.
"You should recognise the smell." He said, "You didn't complain about it when you had that nasty rash on your…"
"Ok!" The older of the two said cutting the other off abruptly, regretting his comment instantly, ignoring the chuckle.
"It uses the same ingredient." The other supplied, finishing off. "Can you stay like that while I get this stuff of my hands." He returned after a couple of minutes holding a couple of rolls of cloth. With well practice ease, he wound the cloth around, wrapping the injured flesh in a protected barrier. Finishing it off, satisfied with his work, he nodded to let her down. As she was laid down, he covered her with a blanket to help stave off the slight chill.
The two packet up what mess was made, once the area was tidy, they joined Sera around the fire.
"Warmed up?" Jonas asked, sitting down next to her.
"Yeah." Wrapping the blanket around him, leaning against each other. The sound of the fire crackling mixed with the night life. "How is she?" after several moments of silence.
"She'll have scarring from some of the more severe burns."
"But, she's ok though?"
"She'll be fine. There shouldn't be any lasting damage, but I'll keep an eye on it." Silence followed as the trio were lost in their own thoughts. Wanting to lighten the mood, Sera turned her head to look at the older man, mischievous smile growing.
"So, Nathill." Trying hard not to burst out laughing.
"Yeah." His response guarded, not liking the look she was sporting.
"How about that rash?" her smile widening, enjoying the flabbergasted look, along with the blush that shot up from his neck, encompassing his entire face. Jonas chucked his head back and let out a joyous bark of laughter, Nathill did not know what to say or how to respond, he was like a fish out of water. It did not take Sera long before she too joined in with Jonas.
"Oh, screw you." he managed, getting up leaving the laughing pair, his ears and face still burning.
"Oh, don't be like that." Jonas called in between bouts of laughter. Laughing more when Nathill flipped them off over his shoulder. Causing another bout of laughter from the pair.
Beyond the mountain range, past the ranks of Matsuho's army, deep within the encampment, the commanders of the Twelfth, Sixteenth and the Fifth Legions stood.
"Is everything ready for the assault?" asked the Sixteenths commander.
"Yes." Replied a lieutenant.
"Then give the signal." The lieutenant snapped to attention, saluted, and left. Several moments later, a horn was blown, resonating loudly.
"Fire!" shout the captain, travelling throughout the ranks. The giant beasts crouched down on their hindlegs, in moments dozen of rockets shrieked out, travelling towards the mountain face.
General Brolraniz faltered as a horn was sounded, walking to the nearest ledge looking down at the amassed army. Eyes widening as the sound of the rapidly approaching rockets whizzed towards them.
"Get those barriers up now!" He shouted, his order being parroted, anticipation and fear swelled within him. The barriers rising uncoordinatedly, as they rushed to fulfil the generals order. The missiles streaked towards them, some impacting the barrier, others clipping the top of them and spiralling uncontrollably into the stone face. Upon colliding with the weathered mountain face, they exploded with great force, launching fire and stone in multiple directions. Pandemonium erupted as soldiers tried to find shelter from the falling rocks and intense fires, some luckily managed to seek shelter, while others were crushed or set alight. Shouts from the defenders echoed throughout the mountain, still the barrage continued.
"Status!" ordered Brolraniz, getting up off the floor, peering around trying to assess the damage. A thick cloud of dust obscured much of the area that was affected, getting no response he made his way to the impacted area.
As he made his way through the winding paths, the cloud of dust was being cleared by the strong wind that swept in from the north. Every so often dislodged rocks would topple down from the mountain face, making those along the paths to cover their heads or seek shelter.
Reaching the nearest affected area took longer than expected, all around every available soldier was clearing away the debris. The process was slow moving, without a second thought, he too joined in the excavation, silently praying that anyone who was unfortunate to have been caught, were alive. Failure weighed heavily in his stomach, as the came across the first body. Carefully they extracted the body, a medic clambered over to the remaining rubble, kneeling next to the body. Brolraniz waited with bated breath as he watched the medic work. The medic shook her head. Smothering the feelings that were swelling up inside of him, he returned to the excavation.
"Wake, mortal." A disembodied voice whispered, "Return to my temple." Still Pala remained unconscious.
"Awaken!"
Pala bolted upright, sucking in a large gulp of air. Hurried footsteps came thundering towards her, in moments a gentle hand rested on her shoulder.
"Easy, Pala." soothingly stated Jonas, as he began examining her. "Are you in any pain?"
"No." shaking her head, scrunching her nose at the unpleasant smell raising up from the bandages. "What the hell did you smother me in?!" she whined.
"A medicinal paste for the burns." He said in a bored tone, giving her an unamused look.
"Well, it smells god damn awful." She complained, moving her head around trying to escape the smell. Jonas's lips thinned, getting up, he made his way over to his bag and began digging through it the contents.
"What's he doing?" Sera asked garnering the attention of the other two, all three watched him pull out a multitude of items, throwing them carelessly around. "Seriously, what the hell is he doing?"
"Hey, been looking for that." They heard him mutter, placing the item down next to him. "It's in here somewhere." Shoving his entire arm into the bag, scrunching his face up in concentration, "For fuck sake!" he huffed, retracting his arm, forcefully opening up the bag wider, then proceeded to shove both arms and his head into the opening.
The trio watched in stunned silence, trying to figure out what their friend was doing.
"Got you! You little bastard!" came the muffled cry of success, extracting himself from the bag, clutching something in his hand, his hair messy. Ignoring the scattered items, he made his way back over, a smirk on his lips.
"What you got in your hand, Jonas." Nervously asked Nathill, taking a step back, when the younger male stopped in front of them.
"You mean this?" he asked innocently, revealing a clay pot, no bigger than the size of his palm.
"Yeah that." Eyeing the seamlessly innocent pot, not liking the look on his face, the others began to get nervous as well.
"Well you see." He began as he ran his finger around the seam, "You all complain about the smell of the medicines I use." Grabbing the lid, "I could always use this instead." Removing the lid, revealing a lilac coloured liquid.
"What's wron…" then the stench hit them, making the trio dry heave, their faces taking on a green hue. Jonas stood there, unaffected by the smell, smiling gleefully at them. He let it carry on for a few moments longer, satisfied that they got his point, he resealed it, cutting off the rancid aroma.
It took the trio several minutes to recover, Sera was the first on to regain some of her composure. She looked at the medic, who was rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet, like an excited child, smug satisfaction was written all over his face.
"You're a right little bastard, you know that don't you." Still he smiled at them.
"I believe, I've made my point. Don't you?" smiling wider as they all nodded enthusiastically, "Good." Turning on his heel, he made his way back over to the messy campsite.
"We better help him tidy up." Nathill said, as he too followed the younger male, picking up the scattered items.
"Will you be alright?" Sera softly asked her friend, giving her a once over.
"I'll be fine. Just need a little bit more rest." She replied, laying back down.
"We'll bring you closer to the fire, if the little shit says its okay." Earning her a chuckle, she smiled a little bit brighter, her heart feeling that bit lighter.
Sera reached the pair, the campsite was almost back to its original condition, shaking her head at how the pair were arguing.
"How come you were unaffected by that rancid smell?" Nathill asked, as his eyes narrowed suspiciously at the younger male. Something wasn't adding up.
"Dunno." He shrugged, putting away the last of the scattered items. He could feel the suspicion radiating off Nathill.
"I hope you boys are playing nicely with each other." Stated Sera as she stood there with her hands on her hips.
"He's hiding something." Nathill replied, moving closer to the medic, noticing the stiffening of his shoulders. Grabbing his shoulders, he spun him around so he could get a better look at his face.
"Nath! What are you doing?!" cried the medic as he struggled against the older man. "Sera, help me." He implored the woman. Flinching as a hand gripped his chin firmly, forcing him to look the other in eye.
"You little shit." Turning to Sera, "He's got something blocking his nose!" reaching up with this hand, he pulled out the material, dropping it on the floor. All Jonas could do was look sheepishly that the pair, laughing nervously he made a run for it.
He managed to get a few meters away when he was tackled to the floor, strong arms wrapped around his waist, the air being knocked out of him as he hit the floor. He barely got his bearings, before he was pull up of the ground, the strong arms gripping him tighter as he was carried back over to the campsite. He could hear and feel the chuckles coming from Nath.
"You should know by now, that you can't outrun me." Laughing harder at the childish huff, the younger responded with, crossing his arms, Nath could tell he was pouting. Reaching their comrades once again, both Sera and Pala sat there with big smiles on their faces.
"I hate the lot of you." Pouted Jonas as he was put down in front of them, still the arms remained around his waist. "You can let go." Looking up at the taller male, all he got in reply was a smile.
"How…" Nath was cut off when a massive wave of blue flames exploded from the temple. All heads snapped to where the explosion came from, their eyes widened at the massive black cloud that spewed from the temple. Without thinking they raced towards the smoke.
The siege was going slowly.
Missiles were smashing into the barrier that protected the Matatabian soldiers, with each collision the barrier rippled. Sweat rolled freely down the faces of those who powered the barrier. It was becoming harder for them to maintain the size and power of the barrier; their Chakra was dwindling.
"I don't know how much longer we can maintain this barrier!" shouted out the leader, his face shining from the sweat.
"We have to keep it up until they run put of ammo!" shouted back the commander.
"We can't maintain a barrier this size for much longer!" the lead retorted, "We have two opinions: We reduce the size, or it fails before they ran out of ammo! Then we will be defenceless against them!" giving the commander a hard look, which changed to a grimace as a more powerful projectile slammed into barrier, several of the barrier corps collapsed from the sudden drain. The explosion spread rapidly across the surface of the barrier illuminating the mountain face.
"By the gods! What was that?!" the Commander shouted, eyes widening in horror. Another projectile slammed into the barrier, this time the majority of the soldiers collapsed, their leader was on his knees, sweat pouring rapidly down his face.
"The barrier is about to collapse!" the leader shouted, a third and final projected smashed against the shield. With that the barrier collapsed, unable to withstand the destructive force it was subjected to. Most of the force was absorbed, but still, the remaining destructive force carried through.