DISCLAIMER: The Taimanin series belongs to Black Lilith.


Chapter 5: Mammoth Flower


Later that evening, Wolfgang, Shizuru, Ambrose, and Kotaro gathered in the lounge of their headquarters. The room was dimly lit, with comfortable leather sofas and a well-stocked bar in the corner. As they settled in, Rin joined them, her face etched with concern as she learned about Felicia's recent harassment of Ambrose's family at their villa in Maesaki.

The atmosphere grew tense as Wolfgang began to explain the threat posed by the vampire princess. He leaned forward, his eyes serious as he spoke. "Felicia is someone not to be trifled with, despite her innocent-looking appearance. She's not just your average threat."

Shizuru raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "How powerful is she exactly?"

Wolfgang's expression darkened. "Let me put it this way: she makes my old man's bodyguards, Ingrid and Oboro, look like amateurs in comparison. And those two are no pushovers."

Kotaro whistled low. "That's saying something. I've heard stories about Ingrid and Oboro's prowess."

"Exactly," Wolfgang continued. "This makes Felicia twice as powerful as my old man and even my own aunt, who also happens to be the Blood Lord."

Ambrose's eyes widened in recognition. "You mean Queen Carla Cromwell?"

"Precisely," Wolfgang nodded, reaching for his drink. He took a sip before continuing, "Edwin Black and Carla Cromwell belong to the same bloodline of vampires in the demon realm, essentially making them distant siblings. But Lady Cromwell's different. She's on the side of justice, working towards a peaceful coexistence between humans and vampires."

Rin, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. "That's quite the family drama. But where do you fit into all this, Wolfgang?"

Wolfgang's lips curved into a slight smirk. "As far as I'm concerned, I'm in a league of my own. I'm the only ascended demon to ever exist so far. My power already surpassed my idiot little sister's, and at one point, I was able to make short work of her since obviously, I'm a freaking giant; standing only at 6 foot 1. And that was before I became a Royal Knight!"

The room fell silent as the implications of Wolfgang's words sank in. Shizuru broke the silence, her voice laced with a mix of admiration and concern. "That's impressive, Wolfgang. But it also means you're likely to be a prime target for Felicia and her allies."

Kotaro nodded in agreement. "We'll need to be extra vigilant. Felicia's not likely to take her defeat lying down."

"No mate, let me handle Felicia this time," Wolfgang answered, his voice carrying a mix of determination and frustration. He leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair. "Like what I said, the reason why she exists is Edwin fucking Black is a terrible father! He's being too lenient with his youngest daughter, leaving her to cause random mayhem just for the fun of it!"

Wolfgang's eyes flashed with a combination of anger and concern as he continued, "If I were in my old man's shoes as a good and loving parent would be, I should've spanked her ass to straighten up a misbehaving child!"

The others listened intently, their expressions a mix of surprise and understanding. Rin, in particular, seemed to be processing this new side of Wolfgang she hadn't seen before.

"I know you also had run-ins with that shitty little brat," Wolfgang continued, his voice softening slightly. He looked around the room, making eye contact with each of his companions, specifically Fuuma since he also had run-ins with Felicia in the past. "As much as you shouldn't kill her, apparently she doesn't want to kill you either because she likes enjoying getting on other people's skin."

Kotaro also recalls Felicia entering around Gosha Village a number of times in his encounters with the vampire girl. There was one time that she stole Yukikaze's school uniform and left it off upon escaping, and Fuuma gets beaten to within an inch of his life for that, even though that wasn't his fault.

Suddenly, Fuuma's phone began ringing, cutting through the tense atmosphere. He reached into his pocket, pulling out the device and glancing at the screen with a puzzled expression.

"Hello?" Fuuma answered, his brow furrowing as he listened to the voice on the other end. "Okay, okay."

The others watched curiously as Fuuma's expression shifted from confusion to bewilderment. He lowered the phone and looked around the room, his cheeks already beginning to flush.

"Uh, guys," he began hesitantly, "is there anyone here named... Master Bates?"

For a moment, there was stunned silence. Then, as realization dawned, the room erupted into laughter. Rin and Shizuru burst into giggles, trying and failing to stifle their amusement behind their hands. Wolfgang and Ambrose roared with laughter, slapping their knees and nearly falling off their chairs.

Fuuma's face turned a brilliant shade of red, rivaling the color of a ripe tomato. He stood there, phone still in hand, looking utterly mortified as his companions continued to howl with mirth.

Wolfgang, wiping tears of laughter from his eyes, managed to compose himself enough to approach Fuuma. With a swift motion, he snatched the phone from the flustered Taimanin's hand.

"Let me handle this," Wolfgang growled, his amusement quickly replaced by irritation as he recognized the prank for what it was.

He pressed the phone to his ear, listening intently. The others watched as his expression darkened, recognizing the familiar, mischievous laughter on the other end of the line.

Without a word, Wolfgang ended the call abruptly, his thumb jabbing the screen with more force than necessary. He handed the phone back to Fuuma, who accepted it with a mix of relief and lingering embarrassment.

"Felicia?" Rin asked, her laughter subsiding as she read Wolfgang's expression.

Wolfgang nodded, his jaw clenched. "Who else? Seems she's not content with just causing trouble in person. Now she's resorting to childish phone pranks."

Ambrose shook his head, a wry smile on his face. "She certainly knows how to push our buttons, doesn't she?"

Kotaro, still red-faced but regaining his composure, sighed. "I should have known. It wouldn't be the first time she's pulled something like this."

Wolfgang's expression turned serious as he addressed the group, his voice carrying a weight that made everyone lean in to listen. "Listen carefully," he said, his eyes moving from one face to another. "Don't even try to pick a fight with Felicia. That's exactly what she wants us to do."

The room fell silent as the implications of Wolfgang's words sank in. Rin and Shizuru exchanged glances, while Kotaro nodded thoughtfully.

"But why?" Rin asked, her brow furrowed in confusion. "Shouldn't we confront her?"

Wolfgang shook his head, a wry smile playing on his lips. "It's not that simple. You see, I know Felicia all too well, perhaps even better than my deadbeat dad."

He paused, collecting his thoughts before continuing. "Both Felicia and I, we're cut from the same cloth in some ways. We're equally vicious and unpredictable, both independent and free-spirited."

The others listened intently, fascinated by this insight into Wolfgang's past and his connection to the troublesome vampire princess.

"But that's where the similarities end," Wolfgang added, his voice tinged with a mix of pride and regret. "Even as a vampire-werewolf hybrid, I've learned to be smarter, more mature, and calculating. Sure, I'm jaded and flawed, and I've struggled with my vampiric bloodline. But I've grown."

Shizuru leaned forward, her eyes sharp with interest. "So what's your strategy for dealing with her, then?"

Wolfgang's lips curved into a knowing smile. "It's simple, really. The best way to deal with Felicia is to draw her out in the middle of chaos. She can't resist getting involved when all hell breaks loose."


An hour later, the group found themselves at Ambrose's villa in Maesaki City. As they approached, the extent of the damage became clear. The front yard was a mess, littered with footprints and the corpses of Nomad demons and soldiers in battle suits. It was a testament to the fierce battle that had taken place.

Wolfgang surveyed the scene, his expression a mix of relief and frustration. "For a second there, that pink maniac could've trashed your entire place," he said, turning to Ambrose. "If not for Grandpa Georgios and GT, you guys would've been done for."

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Next time, I might bring in some cavalry from Castle Cromwell. We can't take any chances."

As they entered the villa, they were greeted by Ambrose's sisters, Liscia and Alv. Wolfgang's demeanor softened as he addressed them. "Hey, did some pink-haired psycho do anything to you girls?"

Liscia smiled, her eyes bright despite the recent ordeal. "We're okay, Uncle Wolffy," she assured him. "At least we helped your Taimanin friend and Uncle Georgios fend off the Nomad."

Alv chimed in, her voice filled with excitement as she recounted the events. "When the fight was happening earlier this morning, the Nomad demons trashed the front yard. You should've seen onii-chan, he went absolutely ballistic!"

Wolfgang couldn't help but chuckle at the mental image, even as he felt a pang of sympathy for Ambrose. "Yeah, I can imagine," he said, shaking his head. "He worked his ass off to protect that garden. One thing Ambrose cherishes most is the beauty of flowers and greenery."

Funny enough, there's no way in hell Black would send his minions to attack anyone associated with the Incubus faction, much less the other way around. As this is Felicia's handiwork without Black's approval, there's no way for the Incubus faction to back up any evidence of Nomad's involvement, making this an isolated case.

Ambrose, who had been quietly surveying the damage, spoke up, his voice tinged with sorrow. "My beautiful garden..."

The flamboyant Incubus's eyes were filled with a mix of anger and sadness as he recalled the attack. The sight of the Nomad demons trampling his beloved plants had been enough to reduce him to tears and ignite a fierce anger within him.

Shizuru, sensing Ambrose's distress, stepped forward. Without a word, she closed her eyes and began to channel her Wood Art. The others watched in awe as the dead plants and trampled greenery began to stir, rejuvenating and coming back to life before their very eyes.

Ambrose's expression transformed from sorrow to pure joy. "Magnifique!" he exclaimed, clapping his hands together in delight. "I never thought you had the Ninja Art to manipulate nature! Merci beaucoup, mon amie."

Shizuru opened her eyes, a smile playing on her lips. "Vous êtes les bienvenus, monsieur Ambrose," she said with a small bow. "They don't call me Shizuru of Flowers for nothing."

"Come inside everyone, I know this whole wild-goose chase had worn us out in the worst possible way. Let's enjoy dinner now!" Ambrose exclaimed, his voice a mixture of exhaustion and forced cheer. He led his guests inside his exotic house, a sprawling villa that seemed to blend various architectural styles from around the world.

As they entered, the scent of exotic spices and freshly cooked food wafted through the air, momentarily distracting them from the chaos of the day. The dining room was a sight to behold, with a long, intricately carved wooden table at its center, surrounded by plush chairs upholstered in rich, vibrant fabrics.

Dinner was a subdued affair, with conversation flowing in fits and starts as everyone tried to process the events of the day. Wolfgang, usually the life of any gathering, was uncharacteristically quiet, his mind clearly elsewhere.

After the meal, as the others settled into the living room for drinks and light conversation, Wolfgang slipped away unnoticed. He found himself in Ambrose's newly rejuvenated garden, a testament to Shizuru's impressive Wood Art skills.

Standing alone among the lush greenery, Wolfgang folded his arms across his chest, his eyes fixed on the waning crescent moon hanging low in the sky. The soft silver light cast long shadows across the garden, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere that seemed at odds with the turmoil in Wolfgang's mind.

The cargo ship mission weighed heavily on him. The discovery of the Nichts Syndicate's plans to nuke Tokyo Kingdom and Yomihara had left him deeply shaken. He couldn't help but feel a bitter irony in the situation. These places, often seen as havens for evil demons and corrupt humans, were now under threat from a group that claimed to act for "the preservation of our blue and pure world." The hypocrisy of it all made his blood boil.

But it wasn't just the mission that troubled him. Ambrose's run-in with the Nomad had forced Wolfgang to confront the ghosts of his past once again, particularly those that shared his vampiric blood and immortality.

As he stood there, the cool night air whispering through the leaves, Wolfgang's mind wandered to his own personal demons. His inability to experience death had always been a source of both frustration and fear. It made him reckless in battle, always pushing the limits, secretly hoping for an honorable death that never came.

He remembered the countless times he had survived injuries that would have killed any normal human. The fall from great heights, the life-threatening concussions, even his addiction to chocolate – a substance toxic to canines and werewolves – all failed to end his seemingly endless existence.

A wry smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he recalled his latest chocolate binge. He had gorged himself on the sweet treat, part of him hoping that this time, maybe this time, it would be too much for even his enhanced system to handle. But as always, his body had simply shrugged off the toxins, leaving him with nothing but a mild stomachache and a bitter taste of disappointment.

These thoughts inevitably led him to his deepest fear – watching those he loved age and pass away while time runs its course. The centuries of post-traumatic stress disorder and survivor's guilt from his escape from Auschwitz seemed to weigh on him more heavily with each passing year.

His mind drifted to Rin's mother, Setsuna. She had been one of the few humans who truly understood his pain. When they first met, he was already a century old, though he looked like a man in his late twenties. He had watched her grow from a vibrant young woman to a wise elder, all while he remained physically frozen in time.

The memory of Setsuna's passing hit him like a physical blow. It had been the realization of his greatest fear, and now that same fear extended to Rin herself.

Wolfgang closed his eyes, the pain of the memory washing over him. He could still hear his own voice, raw with anguish, as he knelt before Rin after burying Setsuna's urn. "I'm a fucking mess, Rin! I should've died a long time ago! Do you know what it's like... to watch everyone you care about grow old and die while you stay the same?!"

The pain had been unbearable then, and it wasn't much easier now. He opened his eyes, blinking away the moisture that had gathered there.

His thoughts turned to Kurenai and Felicia, who shared Edwin Black's vampiric blood just like him. He couldn't help but wonder if Kurenai would face the same struggles he did, watching her friends pass on while she remained unchanged, despite clinging to her humanity.

And then there was Felicia. His relationship with his half-sister was complicated, to say the least. While his animosity towards his biological father was clear and unwavering, his feelings towards Felicia were more nuanced.

She was a paradox – physically an innocent little girl, but with the heart and mind of a psychotic serial killer. Despite everything she had done, Wolfgang couldn't bring himself to harm her. The thought of killing his own father and half-sister filled him with a deep sense of dread. He knew he might never recover if he did.

What worried him most about Felicia was her future. What would happen if Black's power of immortality reached its limit? Or worse, what if he abandoned Felicia, just as Wolfgang had been abandoned before being found by his adoptive human parents in Weimar Germany?

The thought of Felicia overcome with despair, with no one to turn to, filled Wolfgang with a mixture of concern and sadness. It was this worry that turned his relationship with his half-sister into something more complex than pure animosity – a strange mix of love and hate, colored by his concern for her future.

As Wolfgang stood alone in the garden, the cool night air whispered through the newly rejuvenated plants, a testament to Shizuru's impressive Wood Art skills. The soft silver light of the waning crescent moon cast long shadows across the lush greenery, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere that seemed at odds with the turmoil in Wolfgang's mind.

His thoughts were a tangled mess of memories and worries, ranging from the recent mission involving the Nichts Syndicate to the ghosts of his past that seemed to haunt him at every turn. The weight of his immortality pressed down on him, a constant reminder of the loved ones he had lost and those he would inevitably lose in the future.

As he stood there, arms folded across his chest and eyes fixed on the moon, Wolfgang heard soft footsteps approaching. He didn't need to turn to know who it was.

"What are you doing here alone in the garden?" Rin's voice was gentle, tinged with concern.

Wolfgang sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "What else? I'm faced by the uncertainty of my own vampiric bloodline. This has nothing to do with my existential problems with immortality, but Felicia. As messed up as she is, the fact that she remains a little girl while everyone else ages with time and eventually, humanity expiring in the future... Imagine what it would be like for her if she had no one to turn to, even if my old man would be gone."

Rin stepped closer, her presence a comforting warmth in the cool night air. "The only main difference between you and her is that you have a family to reach out to, even if they don't share the same blood as you. And like Kurenai Shinganji, you still hold on to the human part of yourself."

She paused, her eyes searching Wolfgang's face. "You had a successful career as a cagefighter, then you fell from grace after leaving your MMA career, and eventually found your reason to live and achieved redemption, finishing your story and opening a new chapter in your life. Remember why you became a part of the Taimanin organization as a foreign asset, and the honorary Royal Knight of the Dutch royal guard is that you know well how fighting for others is worth living for."

Wolfgang turned to face her, his expression softening slightly. Rin continued, her voice filled with warmth and determination. "We are always right behind you, Shizuru and I will always support you as you've been doing the same for us. You and Ambrose have been traveling around together and you two formed a brotherhood despite coming from divergent tribes of demons."

A small smile tugged at the corners of Wolfgang's mouth. "Yeah, I'm thankful for that. And I will never take that for granted. Thanks for reminding me of that, Rin."

"You're welcome," Rin replied, returning his smile. Her expression then turned serious. "We Taimanins know how dangerous Felicia is, no matter how many times she has fooled us with her mischievous antics. If anything, if there's anyone who knows well about Edwin Black and Nomad than anyone else, that's you."

Wolfgang nodded, his eyes distant. "You're right. The destruction they can cause, the lives they've ruined... I've already seen that more than once. But knowing them doesn't make it any easier to deal with them."

He turned back to the garden, his gaze sweeping over the vibrant flowers and lush greenery. "Sometimes I wonder if I'm really making a difference. If all this fighting, all this pain, is worth it in the end?"

Rin stepped closer, placing a gentle hand on his arm. "It is worth it, Wolfgang. Every life we save, every evil we stop, it all matters. You've touched so many lives, made such a difference. Don't ever doubt that."

Wolfgang covered her hand with his own, feeling the warmth of her touch. "I guess you're right. It's just... sometimes the weight of it all feels too much to bear."

"That's why you have us," Rin said softly. "You don't have to bear it alone. We're a team, remember? More than that, we're family."

As they stood there in the moonlit garden, a comfortable silence fell between them. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sound of laughter from inside the villa served as a reminder of the life and warmth that surrounded them, even in the darkest of times.


The following day at Gosha Academy, the morning began like any other. Students bustled through the hallways, and teachers prepared for their classes. Wolfgang, standing at the front of Fuuma's classroom, was in the middle of a riveting lecture on World War II when he felt a subtle tremor beneath his feet.

His enhanced senses, honed by years of combat and supernatural encounters, immediately put him on high alert. The tremor intensified rapidly, and Wolfgang's voice cut through the growing murmur of confused students.

"Get down!" he shouted, his commanding tone leaving no room for argument. "Use the table for cover. Now!"

The students, startled by the sudden change in their usually calm teacher, scrambled to follow his instructions. Just as they ducked under their desks, the room began to shake violently. Books tumbled from shelves, and the lights flickered ominously.

Wolfgang braced himself against the teacher's desk, his eyes scanning the room for any signs of danger. The quake was far more intense than any normal seismic activity he'd experienced in Japan. It felt... wrong, somehow. Unnatural.

As quickly as it had begun, the shaking subsided. The classroom was left in disarray, but miraculously, there appeared to be no major structural damage. The students slowly emerged from under their desks, their faces pale and shocked.

Wolfgang's voice, now calm but firm, cut through the stunned silence. "Form a line and head to the training field. That's the emergency evacuation point implemented by the higher-ups in case of earthquakes. Move it, people. Stay calm and stick together."

As the students filed out, Fuuma approached Wolfgang, his brow furrowed with concern. "That earthquake was unusual," he said in a low voice. "It should have stopped after a minute or two. But the intensity... it felt closer to Gosha than any quake I've experienced before."

Wolfgang nodded grimly. "You're right. There's something off about this. If there's a source behind these tremors, it's worth investigating. But for now, let's focus on getting everyone to safety."

They joined the stream of students and teachers evacuating the building. Outside, the air was thick with tension and confusion. Wolfgang's keen eyes scanned the crowd, relieved to see that no one appeared to be hurt.

Suddenly, his phone vibrated in his pocket. The screen displayed Ambrose's name, and Wolfgang felt a surge of apprehension. He answered quickly, "Ambrose, what's going on?"

His friend's voice crackled through the speaker, urgent and strained. "Wolffy, you need to come to Maesaki. This doesn't look good!"

"The fuck is going on, mate? Did you feel that earthquake there too?" Wolfgang's mind raced with possibilities, none of them pleasant.

After ensuring the students were safe and accounted for, Wolfgang, Fuuma, Rin, and Shizuru headed to Maesaki. The drive was tense, the silence broken only by the occasional update from Ambrose.

As they entered the city, they were met with a scene of mild chaos. Buildings bore cracks from the quake, and people milled about in the streets, looking dazed and frightened. But it was when they reached the heart of the city that they encountered a sight that made even the battle-hardened Taimanins pause in shock.

"Jesus Mary Joseph..." Wolfgang whispered, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and dread.

Before them, towering over the cityscape, was a colossal flower. Its petals, a sickly purple hue, stretched towards the sky like grasping fingers. The stem, thick as a redwood, disappeared into the cracked pavement below.

"A giant flower?" Kotaro's voice was filled with disbelief. "So this is the source of the quakes earlier?"

Ambrose, who had been waiting for them, stepped forward. His usually jovial face was grim. "That is no ordinary flower, mon amie," he said solemnly. "It's a flower that only exists in the demon realm, one I hoped never to see in this world."

Wolfgang nodded, his expression dark. "Demonologists, scholars and alchemists in the demon realm call it the 'Mammoth Flower.' There was one that emerged in Japan centuries ago, sprouting from a seed buried deep beneath Tokyo. It only germinates under very specific conditions."

As they watched, horrified, roots burst from the sewers and nearby buildings. People screamed as they were ensnared, their blood visibly draining to feed the monstrous plant.

"Normally," Wolfgang continued, his voice tight with anger and concern, "this thing needs certain periods of time and specific conditions to grow. Someone's forced it to emerge prematurely, using powerful demonic magic."

Rin stepped forward, her hand instinctively reaching for Wolfgang's. "How do we stop it?" she asked, her voice steady despite the horror before them.

Wolfgang squeezed her hand, drawing strength from her presence. "I'm not sure," he admitted. "But we need to act fast. Every minute we delay, more people are in danger."

Shizuru, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "My Wood Art might be able to counter its growth, or at least slow it down. But I'll need time and protection to work."

Wolfgang's eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation. The towering Mammoth Flower loomed over them, its sickly purple petals swaying ominously in the wind. He could see the panic starting to spread among the civilians, their frightened cries echoing through the streets.

"Don't," Wolfgang said firmly, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "I'd rather not touch that giant-ass flower first. If we try to cut it down, it'll grow back from the roots!" His gaze swept over his teammates, making sure they understood the gravity of the situation.

Kotaro nodded, his expression serious. "Wolfgang is right," he agreed, his tactical mind already working on a plan. "Let's call for an evac team to handle the safety of civilians. We need a sample of its vines in order to formulate a herbicide for demon plants."

Wolfgang's keen senses picked up on something else – a faint, sweet scent in the air. His eyes widened in realization. "Whatever you do, cover your nostrils and mouth," he warned urgently. "The Mammoth Flower's pollen would be the last thing you would inhale."

Without hesitation, Wolfgang and Ambrose pulled out gas masks from their gear, quickly securing them over their faces. Fuuma, Rin, and Shizuru, already in their Taimanin outfits, pulled up their face coverings, ensuring they were tightly sealed.

As Gosha's Public Security unit arrived to handle the evacuation of civilians, a new threat emerged. From the massive roots of the Mammoth Flower, Nomad demons began to materialize, their ram-like heads and muscular bodies a terrifying sight in the chaos-filled streets of Maesaki.

Wolfgang's eyes widened in disbelief, and he let out a string of German curses, his voice filled with frustration and anger. "MEIN GOTT! MUSS DAS SEIN!? SO EIN BOCKMIST ABER AUCH!"

Fuuma, his face a mask of concern, exclaimed, "Why is Nomad here in Maesaki of all places?" His gaze swept over the scene, taking in the sight of the giant bipedal, ram-like demons flanked by cyborg ninjas. The situation was escalating rapidly, and they needed to act fast.

Wolfgang's mind raced, analyzing the situation. He shook his head, his voice tinged with certainty. "There's no way in hell Ingrid or Oboro would send in some of the old man's minions to be used as cannon fodder." His past experiences with his father's criminal empire gave him unique insight into their methods. "Normally, Oboro would cause havoc just to draw out the likes of Asagi. Ingrid, on the other hand, knew better than to get involved in unnecessary squabbles."

Shizuru's brow furrowed as she began to piece together the implications. "So this means..."

Before she could finish her thought, Wolfgang cut in, his face grim with realization. "If this is Felicia's doing, I have a feeling she's close by." His eyes hardened with determination. "But for now, it's ass-kicking time."

As Rin's squad engaged the Nomad forces, Wolfgang pressed the dragon icon on his device. The air seemed to crackle with anticipation.

Miles away, in the demon realm, inside a tower surrounding Castle Cromwell, an ancient dragon stirred. Perched at the very top was a Pteranodeus, the same dragon that had assisted Wolfgang in disposing of the nuclear warheads from the cargo ship at Pier 33. Unknown to Wolfgang's peers, this dragon had a name: Hangman.

Hangman sensed a disturbance in the human world, a call from its werewolf companion. The dragon spread its massive wings, which then split into two on both sides, forming an X. With a mere thought, Hangman opened a portal and entered, making its way into the human world.

Back in Maesaki, the battle raged on. Wolfgang and Ambrose found themselves engaged in hand-to-hand combat with Nomad cyborg ninjas. Ambrose, ever the elegant fighter, pulled out his signature rapier, Paradis Retrouve. With fluid, graceful movements, he used his fencing skills to throw the Nomad swordsmen and cyborg ninjas off balance, creating openings for Wolfgang to strike.

Suddenly, a familiar rumble reached Wolfgang's ears, causing him to pause mid-fight. Ambrose, recognizing the sound, called out, "Wait, is that Hangman?"

Wolfgang nodded, a grim smile spreading across his face. "Yep. We might need him. Hangman's basically what you'd get if you could build weapons using materials from Monster Hunter creatures. And there are more monsters out there in the demon world that we could use to create weapons."

As Hangman descended from the sky, its massive form casting a shadow over the battlefield, Wolfgang approached his draconic ally. He asked Hangman for some scales and created a physical copy of one of its wings. Using his Philosopher's Stone, Wolfgang channeled his alchemical knowledge to create an organic weapon from the materials provided by his Pteranodeus companion.

The result was awe-inspiring: a giant sword, nearly the size of a human, that required two hands to wield effectively. Yet, Wolfgang found he could carry it with one hand, much like Murasaki with her giant axe. This was the Super-Ancient Dragon Claymore Futunomitama, a weapon born from the fusion of demon realm materials and human world alchemy.

Wolfgang looked up at Hangman, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and determination. "Hey, big guy. Can you give us a hand?" he called out. Then, remembering the deadly nature of their floral foe, he added a warning. "Also, watch out for the giant flower's pollen. One sniff can kill you, and don't burn it down because it'll still grow back if you do."

With that said, Wolfgang gripped the Futunomitama with both hands, feeling its power course through him. He took a deep breath, centered himself, and swung the massive blade. The air itself seemed to part as the sword cleaved through one Nomad oni and a cyborg ninja, cutting them clean in half.

Blood, gore, and oil from enemy battle armor spilled across the battlefield, painting a gruesome scene of destruction. The Futunomitama, Wolfgang's newly created weapon, proved to be a force of nature. Its blade, fashioned from dragon skin, gleamed with an otherworldly sheen. The spikes along its edge resembled dragon's teeth, giving it a fierce and primal appearance.

As Wolfgang swung the massive sword, it cut through the air with a whistle, cleaving through Nomad demons, cyborg ninjas, soldiers in battle armor, and mobile drones alike. The weapon's power was evident in the way it effortlessly sliced through flesh, metal, and bone.

Meanwhile, Hangman the Pteranodeus took to the skies, its massive wings casting shadows over the battlefield. The ancient dragon opened its maw, and a ball of energy began to form between its jaws. The air crackled with power as the energy grew, building to a crescendo over ten long seconds.

When the charge reached its peak, Hangman unleashed a focused blast of plasma and photon energy. The beam cut through the air, striking the second wave of enemies with devastating precision. In an instant, the attackers were reduced to nothing but ash, their remains scattering in the wind.

Rin, not to be outdone, leapt high into the air. Electricity crackled around her body, her hair standing on end from the charge. As she descended, she plunged her sword into the ground with a fierce cry.

"Lightning Art: Dazzling Thundershower!"

The moment her blade struck the earth, bolts of lightning erupted in all directions. The electrical assault bathed the remaining enemies in a brilliant, deadly thunderbolts. Those caught in the attack were instantly electrocuted, their bodies reduced to charred husks.

As the dust settled, Rin scanned the area, her keen eyes searching for any remaining threats. "I think that's the last of them," she said, her voice tinged with both relief and caution.

The immediate danger had passed, but the team knew their work was far from over. The Mammoth Flower loomed over them, a constant reminder of the true threat they faced.

Rin's squad approached the members of the Public Security unit, who were tending to the civilians. What they saw was both strange and alarming. The people affected by the flower's pollen lay on the ground, seemingly asleep. But their faces wore expressions of contentment, even joy, as if they were experiencing pleasant dreams.

Ambrose knelt beside one of the sleeping civilians, placing a hand on their forehead. His brow furrowed in concentration as he used his incubus powers to peer into their dreams. After a moment, he looked up at the others, his expression grave.

"They've inhaled some kind of hallucinogenic pollen," he explained, his voice low with concern. "It's making them experience dreams of their ideal situations. It's... disturbingly potent."

Wolfgang frowned, his grip tightening on the Futunomitama. "This is worse than we thought. If people are trapped in their ideal dreams, they might not want to wake up. We need to find a way to neutralize this pollen, and fast."

As the team prepared to retreat, their eyes were drawn to a figure among the pollen-affected civilians that made them all pause in disbelief. A woman with fiery red hair and a dress that accentuated her voluptuous figure lay unconscious on the ground. Her lips, slightly parted, revealed jagged teeth that hinted at her demonic nature.

Wolfgang's eyes widened in recognition. "How the fuck did Flame Princess get here?!" he exclaimed, using the nickname he'd given her in the past.

Fuuma's face paled as memories of Kotrara flooded back. "Astaroth?!" he gasped, his voice tinged with a mix of fear and surprise.

Ambrose knelt beside the unconscious demoness, his brow furrowed in concentration as he used his incubus powers to peer into her dreams. After a moment, he pulled back, his face a mask of shock and disgust.

"Unbelievable. Even the Queen of Inferno isn't immune to the giant flower's pollen," he muttered, shaking his head. "Mamma mia! Even having a harem of human men for her to have sex with is-"

Wolfgang quickly cut him off, not wanting to hear the sordid details. "Don't say it out loud, mate! Just leave it there," he said, his voice gruff but tinged with a hint of embarrassment.

The team stood in silence for a moment, the implications of Astaroth's presence sinking in. Fuuma was the first to break the silence, his voice uncertain. "So, what now? We just can't leave her like this even though she's our enemy."

Rin's tactical mind was already working on a solution. She turned to Fuuma and Shizuru, her expression serious. "You and Shizuru return to the academy and have the sample examined by Kiryu. We need to know what we're dealing with here." Then, she glanced at Wolfgang and Ambrose. "Wolfgang, Ambrose, and I will take care of Astaroth. We'll interrogate her if we have to."

Wolfgang nodded, his face grim. "Agreed. If anything, she might be in for some catching up with a rival."

As Fuuma and Shizuru prepared to leave, Ambrose approached Astaroth's unconscious form. With a gentleness that belied his demonic nature, he carefully lifted her in his arms. "I'll take her to my villa," he said. "It's the safest place for now, and we can keep her contained if needed."


Later that night, Astaroth stirred from her slumber, her eyelids fluttering open as she took in her surroundings. The bed she found herself in was nestled amidst a sea of lush greenery and vibrant flowers, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. As her vision cleared, she was startled to find herself face-to-face with Wolfgang, Ambrose, and Rin. The fire demon's eyes narrowed, focusing on Wolfgang's face, which bore an uncanny resemblance to her former friend, Edwin Black.

"Well, well," Astaroth drawled, her voice dripping with sarcasm, "if it isn't the Western werewolf and his queer boyfriend." Her gaze flicked between Wolfgang and Ambrose, a mocking smirk playing on her lips.

Wolfgang, unfazed by her taunt, crossed his arms and retorted, "About time you woke the fuck up, Sleeping Beauty." His voice was gruff, tinged with a mix of annoyance and relief. "That giant-ass flower's pollen will weaken every night. Never thought I'd see the day when the top dog of the Burning Plains would fall victim to a goddamn plant."

Astaroth's gaze shifted to Rin, who stood silently beside Wolfgang. The fire demon's eyes narrowed, a hint of curiosity mingling with her usual disdain. "Hah," she scoffed, "to think you're throwing your lot in with the Taimanins. You sure have the audacity to bring down your own father out of all people." Her words were carefully chosen, designed to provoke a reaction from Wolfgang.

The mention of his father caused Wolfgang's jaw to clench, his eyes flashing with anger. "Don't you EVER bring up my old man," he growled, his voice low and dangerous. "As far as I'm concerned, you gave my guys a hard time in Kotrara, and I'll give you that. But you only made it harder for us to chase after that fucker Momochi. Just because you and my old man were once good friends that drifted apart doesn't mean we're friends either!"

The tension in the room escalated rapidly, the air thick with unspoken hostility. Ambrose and Rin exchanged worried glances, both trying to find a way to defuse the situation.

"Wolffy," Ambrose interjected, his voice soft but urgent, "could you clarify that part about her and Black?"

Rin, her curiosity piqued, added, "Are you saying Astaroth and Edwin Black were once friends?"

Astaroth let out a harsh laugh, her eyes gleaming with malicious amusement. "What's wrong with you neanderthals? Edwin and I were once good friends. But he's too much of a buzzkill, unlike his idiot son!" She paused, her gaze raking over Wolfgang. "That's all you need to know."

Her words hung in the air, heavy with implication. The history between Astaroth and Wolfgang was complex, a rivalry born from their mutual desire to outdo the other. Astaroth's lips curled into a cruel smile as she continued, "You won seven world championships in your career, killed many demons, and almost wiped out an entire population of Orcs. Not to mention, you've got a lot of enemies in the demon realm thanks to your fearsome reputation! You are everything Edwin wanted to be!"

Wolfgang remained silent, his face an impassive mask. But Rin could see the tension in his shoulders, the way his fists clenched at his sides. Astaroth was glorifying the darker aspects of Wolfgang's past, aspects he had been trying to leave behind.

Finally, Wolfgang spoke, his voice steady and controlled. "Unfortunately, you're half right, but also wrong at the same time. Times change, and I want to keep up with the times. I wanted to change myself and evolve at my own deficit for myself. I can't change the past. As for the present and future, I can, you can, and everyone else can. That's the one thing the old man can't understand, because his fucking mind is always stuck in the past! People like Momochi can only think about bringing the world back to the way it used to be. What about you? Your usual routine is nothing but 'eat, sleep, fight, sex, repeat'. How is that going to bring you any satisfaction?"

Astaroth's eyes narrowed, a flicker of something – perhaps respect, perhaps annoyance – crossing her face. "Nice speech, boy. You should've been a politician. No wonder you sounded like Cromwell with her lofty ideals of co-existence." She chuckled, referencing the Blood Lord Carla Cromwell, another powerful figure in the demon realm.

Wolfgang's expression softened slightly at the mention of Cromwell. "There's a good reason I was raised by her back then. She wants a better tomorrow for both humans and demons. That is, if people like Momochi and those Nazi bastards don't break that rule of co-existence." He paused, his gaze locking with Astaroth's. "By the way, if you wanna blow off some steam, I'm here for a match. We've fought many times, and it always ends the same way – a stalemate."

The revelation hung in the air, surprising both Ambrose and Rin. They exchanged glances, realizing there was much more to Wolfgang's past than they had known.

Astaroth raised an eyebrow, a hint of intrigue in her voice. "Normally, I'd be the one asking for a fight. But you, of all people..."

Wolfgang pressed on, his voice firm. "Look, I feel you. And I've got something to get off my chest as well after running into some nukes, my idiot sister causing us problems, and a giant flower. If you want to settle the score, then I'm ready."

A slow smile spread across Astaroth's face, a mixture of anticipation and respect. "Hmph. You're more intriguing than you already were. After you deal with that Mammoth Flower, I'll be waiting, boy."

The tension in the room slowly dissipated, replaced by an odd sense of understanding between the two rivals. Rin and Ambrose watched in silence, realizing that the relationship between Wolfgang and Astaroth was far more complex than they had initially thought.


Later that evening, the team reconvened in the Research and Development room at Gosha Academy. The air was thick with anticipation as Wolfgang and Rin joined Fuuma and Shizuru, eager to hear the results of Kiryu's analysis on the Mammoth Flower root sample.

Fuuma, his face etched with concern, began relaying the information. "According to Kiryu-sensei's findings, the flower's pollen has some peculiar properties," he said, his voice steady but tinged with worry. "It seems the pollen's effects weaken significantly at night. More importantly, it contains a powerful psychostimulant."

Wolfgang leaned forward, his brow furrowed. "A psychostimulant? Yep, that's what I'm talking about."

Fuuma nodded, continuing, "When inhaled, it has a sedative effect that plunges people into vivid dreams of their ideal world."

As these words hung in the air, Rin felt her cheeks flush. Her mind wandered, imagining what her ideal world might look like if she had inhaled the pollen. Unbidden, visions of intimate encounters with Wolfgang flashed through her thoughts. She quickly pushed these embarrassing fantasies aside, hoping her sudden blush wasn't too noticeable.

Wolfgang, oblivious to Rin's momentary discomfort, added his own observations. "And that's what makes it so dangerous," he said, his voice gruff. "It's not just that they're hard to wake up. The plant is using the pollen to control people, turning them into mindless zombies to protect itself."

He pulled out a tablet, bringing up drone footage from the Public Security unit. The team leaned in, watching as the screen showed groups of people standing motionless around the massive roots of the giant plant. Their eyes were blank, bodies swaying slightly in the breeze like extensions of the plant itself.

"It's like something out of a horror movie," Shizuru murmured, her usual confidence replaced by a hint of unease.

Wolfgang nodded grimly. "What's strange is that Astaroth was able to wake up. My guess is she didn't inhale much of the pollen. The effects seem to erode at night, probably because plants don't release pollen after dark."

Shizuru, eager to move the conversation towards a solution, interjected, "On a more positive note, we've made progress on the herbicide. However, it will take 48 hours to complete the batch we need." She paused, her tactical mind already formulating a plan. "For now, I suggest we leave the Public Security unit to handle crowd control. We can't risk more of our team being affected."

Wolfgang nodded in approval, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "That's fair game," he agreed. "Once the herbicide is ready, we can bring in Hangman to drop it on top of the giant plant." His eyes lit up with a mix of anticipation and determination. "And boom! Mission complete."

He paused, his expression growing more serious. "We can't simply cut down a giant-ass tree like this. As long as its roots remain, it can regrow. We need to kill it at the source."

Rin, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "But what about the people affected by the pollen? Will the herbicide harm them?"

Fuuma shook his head. "Kiryu-sensei assured me the herbicide is specifically designed to target the plant's unique cellular structure. It shouldn't have any effect on humans or animals."

As the team continued to discuss the finer points of their plan, the gravity of their mission settled over them. They were not just fighting a plant, but battling against people's deepest desires and dreams. The challenge ahead was as much psychological as it was physical.

Wolfgang let out a heavy sigh, his shoulders sagging slightly as he spoke. "Lovely," he said, his voice tinged with relief. "We might as well make use of this two-day breather while we monitor the situation."


The following day, the Public Security Unit continued their efforts in Maesaki, working tirelessly to contain the affected individuals and prevent them from reaching the Mammoth Flower. Several Taimanins had to be transported back to Gosha for medical re-evaluation after inadvertently inhaling the pollen.

From his vantage point atop a tall building, Wolfgang surveyed the city through his binoculars. The sprawling metropolis was now a maze of giant roots, snaking their way through streets and buildings alike. The sight was both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

"At least it's not as chaotic as yesterday," the Dutchman muttered, his keen eyes scanning the area. "More and more people are falling under the pollen's influence. It's spreading like a virus, caught airborne. We've got 24 hours left before the herbicide is ready. We need to stay vigilant."

Fuuma stood beside him, his face etched with concern. Despite the gravity of their current situation, something else weighed on his mind. He hesitated for a moment before speaking, his curiosity getting the better of him.

"Hey... I know I shouldn't pry, but while you were interrogating Astaroth, I overheard something," Kotaro began, his voice cautious. "Is it true that she and Edwin Black were friends?"

Wolfgang's expression darkened slightly at the mention of his father. "Yeah, they were," he confirmed, his voice gruff. "But those two were never meant to be more than that. Flame Princess is a bigger textbook sociopath than my old man, if you can believe it. She lives for the thrill of a good fight, be it with humans or demons. Expensive food, fancy drinks, wild nights in bed – rinse and repeat. That's her life."

He paused, his gaze distant as he continued, "The old man, on the other hand, is your typical supervillain. World domination is all he cares about. End of story." Wolfgang's voice dropped lower, almost to a whisper. "And I'm going to let you in on a dark secret that she blurted out during our conversation..."

Fuuma leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "What's that?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Wolfgang's face contorted with a mix of shame and regret as he spoke. "I also got the nickname 'Orc Killer,'" he revealed, his voice heavy with the weight of his past. "When I first started doing contract killings, an anonymous client offered me an obscene amount of money to burn down an orc village in the demon realm. The job was to kill everyone, down to the last orc."

Fuuma's eyes widened in shock, his voice barely above a whisper as he replied, "That's horrible. How could you accept such an offer?"

Wolfgang ran a hand through his hair, his face a mask of conflicting emotions. "I don't know the full story behind it. Maybe my client harbored an intense hatred for orcs, wanted them all dead. It's true that orcs are often considered the lowest of the low in the demon realm. They're notorious for sexually assaulting both human and demon women in the most depraved ways imaginable. Their semen even contains an aphrodisiac that's highly addictive to women."

He paused, his voice growing softer. "But that doesn't justify what I did. I was desperate at the time, on the verge of going broke after leaving MMA. I took the job, and in doing so, I essentially committed genocide on a demon tribe." Wolfgang's eyes met Fuuma's, filled with regret. "The irony isn't lost on me. I ended up being just as bad as Hitler and the Nazis, the very people I despise."

Wolfgang turned away, gazing out at the city once more. "That was just the beginning of my descent. A lot of demons who had respected me for my fighting career were disgusted by my actions. They gave me that moniker, 'Orc Killer,' and I made a lot of enemies in the demon realm because of it."

He clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white. "My ruthlessness in the ring didn't change when I became a bounty hunter. If anything, it got worse. I'd do whatever it took to complete a mission, even if it meant crossing lines I never thought I would. But a part of me... a part of me never enjoyed killing, even when the targets deserved it."

Wolfgang's voice grew softer, almost introspective. "The hardest part, mate, is trying to be a good person in a world where evil and corruption lurk around every corner. It's a constant battle, and sometimes, you lose your way."

Fuuma remained silent for a moment, processing the weight of Wolfgang's confession. The revelation cast a new light on the man he thought he knew, revealing layers of complexity and inner turmoil he hadn't imagined.

As they stood there, overlooking the city entangled in the Mammoth Flower's roots, the gravity of their current mission seemed to take on new significance. It wasn't just about saving the city; for Wolfgang, it was another step on the path to redemption, a chance to use his skills for good, not only to atone for the sins of his past; a proof that his own life is worth living for.

The silence between them was broken by the distant sound of sirens, a reminder of the ongoing crisis below. Wolfgang straightened up, his face set with determination.

"We've got work to do," he said, his voice steady. "Let's focus on saving these people and dealing with this overgrown weed. The past is the past, but right now, we have a chance to make a difference."


The following night, Rin's squad stood on the same rooftop where Wolfgang and Fuuma had been overseeing the giant flower. The air was thick with tension as they prepared for their final assault on the Mammoth Flower. Rin's eyes were fixed on the monstrous plant that had taken over the city, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

In the distance, the demon dragon Hangman appeared, its massive wings casting shadows over the cityscape. Clutched tightly in its claws was a bomb containing the chemical agent designed to kill demon plants. The creature's eyes glowed with an otherworldly intelligence as it approached its target.

"Here we go," Wolfgang muttered, his voice a low rumble. Rin felt a shiver run down her spine at the sound of his voice, remembering their recent intimate encounters.

The winged beast flew straight towards the giant flower, its movements precise and deliberate. With a powerful swoop, it released the bomb, dropping it right at the core of the Mammoth Flower. The explosion that followed was unlike anything Rin had ever seen before.

A cloud of green powder erupted from the bomb, enveloping the giant plant in its entirety. The effect was almost instantaneous. The Mammoth Flower began to wither and erode at an alarming rate, its once vibrant leaves and petals turning brown and brittle.

"It's working!" Shizuru exclaimed, her usual composure giving way to excitement.

As they watched, the massive plant structure began to collapse in on itself, reduced to nothing more than a lifeless husk. The sight was both awe-inspiring and slightly unsettling, a reminder of the power they wielded.

Fuuma wasted no time in moving to the next phase of their plan. He barked orders into his communicator, his voice sharp and authoritative. "Maika, burn the plant down!"

On the ground, Maika Kamimura of Gosha's Fire Squad sprang into action. Rin had heard stories about Maika, knowing she was not only a skilled fire user but also the artist behind Wolfgang's intricate back tattoos. Now, she watched as Maika pulled out a formidable weapon - the Meido Bazooka, a cannon that could be wielded like a rocket launcher.

"Have a mouthful of heat, asshole!" Maika's voice crackled over the communicator, her enthusiasm evident even from a distance. The Meido Bazooka roared to life, releasing a massive fireball that arced through the air towards the remains of the Mammoth Flower.

The impact was spectacular. Flames engulfed the withered husk, quickly reducing it to ashes. The heat was so intense that Rin could feel it even from their vantage point on the rooftop.

"All stations, target neutralized. Let's RTB," Wolfgang confirmed, his voice carrying a note of satisfaction. The mission had been a success, but Rin knew better than to let her guard down completely.

As the team began to disperse, Wolfgang made his way down to investigate the crater where the Mammoth Flower had once stood. Rin and Shizuru exchanged glances before following him, curious about what he might find.

At the very center of the scorched earth, Wolfgang discovered a small seed pouch. The image on the pouch depicted the Mammoth Flower in all its terrifying glory. As he examined it closely, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"This isn't over," he muttered, more to himself than to the others. "The culprit has to be around here somewhere."

No sooner had the words left his mouth than Wolfgang's head snapped up, his eyes fixed on a point in the distance. Rin followed his gaze, her breath catching in her throat as she saw what had captured his attention.

Standing at the edge of the crater was a little girl with pink hair, wearing a pristine white dress that seemed untouched by the destruction around her. There was something eerie about her presence, a sense of otherworldliness that sent chills down Rin's spine.

"You!" Wolfgang's voice was a mix of surprise and recognition. Rin glanced at him, wondering about the history behind this encounter.

"Wait, that's..." Rin's voice trailed off as recognition dawned on her. She had seen this girl before, in briefings and wanted posters. A dangerous individual despite her youthful appearance.

"Felicia," Wolfgang confirmed, his voice a mix of surprise and irritation.

Fuuma, who had joined them and was now standing between Rin and Shizuru, exclaimed in disbelief, "You're saying Felicia is behind all of this?!"

Wolfgang held up the seed pouch, his mind quickly connecting the dots. "Who else? She must've bought the demon flower seeds from Yomihara and decided to forcibly grow it here!" His voice was tinged with a mix of anger and frustration, clearly familiar with Felicia's penchant for chaos.

Felicia's childlike voice carried across the crater, a stark contrast to the destruction surrounding them. "Awwww~ I thought we were getting to the fun part. But onii-sama decided to burn the tree up. " Her words were playful, but there was an undercurrent of malice that made Rin's skin crawl. "Feli isn't too happy seeing onii-sama, much less him playing with the Taimanins."

Wolfgang's reaction was more annoyance than surprise, suggesting a history between them. "You haven't changed at all since the last time we met, even after I beat you to within an inch of your life," he growled, his fists clenching at his sides. "I can't understand why the old man is so irresponsible, letting his youngest daughter run amok like this."

Rin glanced between Wolfgang and Felicia, trying to piece together their relationship. The term "onii-sama" suggested a familial connection, but Wolfgang's words painted a picture of a troubled and dangerous individual rather than a sister.

Felicia giggled, the sound unnervingly innocent in the tense atmosphere. "Oh, onii-sama, you're always so serious. Don't you know how to have fun anymore?" She twirled in place, her white dress flaring out around her. "Feli just wanted to make the city prettier. Is that so wrong?"

"Either way, I'm putting an end to your shitshow here and now," Wolfgang growled, his voice low and menacing. His eyes never left Felicia as he tapped a sequence on his smartwatch. In a flash of light, a knight sword materialized in his hand, its blade gleaming in the dim light of the devastated city.


Footnotes & Trivia:

- The entire premise of this chapter is based on the Ultra Q episode of the same name.