DISCLAIMER: The Taimanin series belongs to Black Lilith.
Chapter 6: Hard Times Breed Better Men
[Soundtrack: "Kingdom" by Downstait; instrumental]
As Rin's squad and Fuuma found themselves facing off against Felicia, Edwin Black's daughter, the tension in the air was palpable. Wolfgang, with practiced ease, pulled out his Wilhelmus sword. He detached the blade unit and held the trigger, his voice resonating with power as he invoked the transformation command: "Garyou Tensei!" Before anyone could blink, he reattached the blade, the metal clicking satisfyingly into place.
In a matter of seconds, Felicia was surrounded by an army of Nomad demons. These weren't just any demons; they were high-ranking ones, their auras exuding malevolence and power. Rin, Shizuru, and Kotaro instinctively took defensive stances, their bodies taut with anticipation.
Wolfgang, holding the sword in a reverse grip, began his transformation. It was a sight to behold. His sleek armor materialized, starting with a grayscale coloration that, combined with the carbon fiber bodysuit, gave the impression of futuristic chain mail. The transformation continued as a royal longcoat materialized beneath the armor. The shin guards and gauntlets shimmered, changing from dull gray to brilliant gold. Lion-themed pauldrons appeared on his shoulders, their intricate details catching the light.
On the back of the majestic longcoat, Wolfgang's personal coat of arms came into view. Below the shield were two lion heads flanking a wolf's head at the center, creating the impression of a fearsome cerberus. It was a symbol of his dual nature - part royal knight, part wild force of nature.
The transformation reached its climax as Wolfgang's helmet materialized. The wolf's gaping mouth formed his visor, giving him a fierce, predatory appearance. Where once stood a man, now stood a Royal Knight of the Dutch royal guard - the 12th Royal Knight of Wilhelmus, Paladinus Lupus.
[Soundtrack: "Kingdom" by Downstait; chorus]
("You took it all away, I gave it all away")
("Can't take my freedom!")
With his transformation complete, Wolfgang's focus shifted to offense. He tapped the weapon icon on his smartwatch, and in a display of his immense power, multiple copies of Ingrid's signature knight sword, Dark Flame, materialized around him. With a mere thought, he sent these blades hurtling towards the charging Nomad demons.
The scene that followed was both gruesome and awe-inspiring. The summoned blades, moving with unerring precision, skewered the demons from top to bottom. It was as if they had run into a wall of swords, their bodies impaled and lifeless in an instant. The ground beneath them became slick with demon blood, the metallic scent filling the air.
("Here to change the game, a banner made of pain")
("I built my kingdom!")
In one devastating stroke, the demons protecting Felicia had fallen. Wolfgang stood tall, unfazed by the carnage he had just wrought. This wasn't the reckless charge of a Taimanin falling for Felicia's taunts; this was the calculated move of a strategist who was always one step ahead.
Felicia's agitation was clear in her voice as she whined, "Hey, no fair! Why did onii-sama get to wear that shiny suit?!"
("Now you bow to me!")
Wolfgang's reply was cold and matter-of-fact. "That's because you haven't learned your lesson from the last time we fought!" His voice carried the weight of his achievements, of everything he had accomplished that his father couldn't. "So long as I'm still standing, you will never surpass me!"
With fluid motions, Royal Knight Wolfgang detached the blade unit of his Wilhelmus from the handle. He pressed the trigger twice in quick succession.
("You took my dreams but not my name!")
"Bronze! Silver!" the Wilhelmus's voice proclaimed, echoing in the tense atmosphere.
The blade smoothly attached to the connection port on the left side of the guard, transforming the sword into a formidable rifle. Without hesitation, Wolfgang aimed the weapon directly at Felicia. The action sent a shock through Rin and Fuuma, who suddenly realized his apparent intent to kill his own sister.
"Wolfgang, don't!" Rin cried out, her voice laced with desperation and concern.
("You'll follow me into the end... I am my kingdom!")
Fuuma's voice joined hers, equally alarmed. "What are you doing?! She's your sister!"
Inside his helmet, Wolfgang's heads-up display showed the crosshairs aligning perfectly with Felicia. The Wilhelmus in rifle mode began to charge, a low hum filling the air as energy gathered at its muzzle.
"Felicia..." Wolfgang's voice was cold, devoid of any brotherly affection. "This place shall become your grave!" With those ominous words, he pulled the trigger.
A neon blue energy blast erupted from the Wilhelmus, surrounded by a golden helix that morphed into the shape of a wolf's head as it streaked towards Felicia. The air crackled with raw power, and for a moment, it seemed that Felicia's fate was sealed.
But then, defying all expectations, a ball of darkness materialized in front of Felicia, absorbing the energy blast completely.
"What the fuck...?!" Wolfgang cursed, his helmet accordioning down his neck to reveal his shocked face. Recognition dawned in his eyes. "I've seen this ball of gravity before... It's him!"
Fuuma felt a chill run down his spine, a familiar feeling of dread that harkened back to his last mission in Tokyo Kingdom with the team. "This presence... It can't be!"
Wolfgang turned to Fuuma, his gaze locking with the task force captain's. "Who else, dipshit? It's my fucking deadbeat dad!"
"Edwin Black?! But how?" Rin exclaimed, her voice a mixture of surprise and fear.
Wolfgang's demeanor changed subtly. "Guys, please stay out of this just for this moment only. I know I was about to cross that line earlier, but I knew the old man would eventually protect Felicia." His revelation stunned the others - he had been planning to draw out Black by threatening Felicia's life.
The vampire king emerged from a veil of smoke, surrounded by small silhouettes of bats. His presence was overwhelming, filling the area with an oppressive aura that made it hard to breathe.
Despite Felicia's immense power, which rivaled even the strongest demons, Wolfgang remained the one obstacle she couldn't overcome. His accomplishments as a cage fighter, his multiple world championships, and his ascension to Royal Knight status put him in a league of his own. Moreover, his ability to create copies of weapons from past and present demon warriors made him a truly formidable opponent.
"Wait, he can control gravity?!" Fuuma exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief.
Wolfgang nodded grimly. "Looks like it. Gravity shields can absorb and deflect projectiles." He then turned his attention to his biological father, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "For a second there, your negligence was just about to reach its logical conclusion by allowing your bratty little daughter to die by her own brother's hand."
The fact that Wolfgang had donned his Royal Knight gear spoke volumes about his intentions. He had been prepared to use his power to pass judgment not just on Felicia, but on Black as well, with murderous intent. Rin's earlier concern was justified - she had feared he might break his oath. However, Wolfgang had merely been baiting Black, knowing the risk involved in threatening Felicia. He had immediately relented once Black appeared.
While most who stood before Edwin Black would feel paralyzed with fear, as Kotaro had experienced firsthand. This is not the case for a man named Rood Kaiser van Wolfgang. As Black's estranged firstborn son, his only goal in life was to surpass his father by any means necessary, despite having already cemented his legendary status in the world of combat sports.
"Impressive..." Black's voice carried a hint of pride. "So you've become a Royal Knight and tied together the Dutch royal guards and the Taimanins by working with the task force. I'm very proud of you, my son."
Though Wolfgang wasn't the type to live in anyone's shadow, least of all his father's, he let the comment slide. But he couldn't resist delivering a scathing retort. "That's it? You just show your ass up here to protect your shitty little girl, after you snubbed me back in Tokyo Kingdom when those Nazi bastards were trying to take over your turf?!" His voice rose with each word, years of pent-up anger and resentment pouring out. "Your own ignorance will be your undoing, pops. And oh, they even planned to nuke your turf and Yomihara just to make a fucking point! If I wasn't there with these Taimanins, all of us demons and humanity as a whole would've been at the brink of extinction!"
Wolfgang is the only reason why Nomad was able to fight back when the Nichts Syndicate attempted to overrun Tokyo Kingdom, being able to convince Ingrid to lead a cavalry of Nomad soldiers and demons and drive away the neo-Nazi invaders. Back in the cargo ship mission, the entire world would've faced a far worse nuclear apocalypse far worse than Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and Chenobryl combined. And who managed to averted that disaster? It's still Wolfgang himself.
A woman's voice can be heard where Wolfgang and his friends are standing, "My, my... I never thought I'd see the day our children fighting against each other again."
The air suddenly thickened with an ominous presence as a veil of blood-red smoke materialized before them. From within this otherworldly mist emerged a figure that sent chills down the spines of all present. Wolfgang's eyes widened in recognition as he took in the familiar features of the woman who now stood before them.
Her skin was as pale as moonlight, contrasting starkly with her flowing snow-white hair that seemed to dance in an unseen breeze. Scarlet eyes, reminiscent of freshly spilled blood, surveyed the scene with an air of regal indifference. Atop her head sat a delicate crown, its intricate design hinting at a status far beyond mortal comprehension.
The woman's attire was both alluring and intimidating. Her dress, a masterpiece of dark elegance, exposed her upper torso and ample cleavage, leaving little to the imagination. A belt cinched tightly around her waist accentuated her figure, while thigh-high stockings drew attention to her long, graceful legs. A robe draped over her shoulders, offering tantalizing glimpses of pale skin beneath.
Edwin was the first to break the stunned silence, his voice a mixture of awe and disbelief. "Carla... I never thought you'd show up here in the human world." His words carried the weight of recognition, identifying her as a fellow vampire, but one whose presence in this realm was highly unusual.
Wolfgang, his face a mask of conflicting emotions, addressed the newcomer with a respectful yet cautious tone. "Lady Cromwell..." The familial connection between them was palpable, despite the clear differences in their nature.
Rin's eyes widened as memories flooded her mind. "Wait, I've seen her before..." she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper. "My mother had once met this vampire woman. And so does my distant relative, Kitae." The realization dawned on her face as she pieced together the identity of the imposing figure before them. "The infamous Blood Lord, Carla Cromwell."
The tension in the air was palpable as Carla's gaze swept over the group, her expression unreadable. The silence stretched on, broken only by the sound of hearts pounding in anticipation of what this unexpected arrival might mean for their already complicated situation.
The tension in the air dissipated as Wolfgang's knight armor returned to its grayscale colors before fading away, revealing his casual attire beneath. The transformation was almost jarring, the powerful Royal Knight giving way to a young man in a fancy coat and jeans. Yet, the aura of authority around him remained unchanged.
Kotaro, still processing the appearance of Carla Cromwell, turned to Wolfgang with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. "This woman is also a vampire?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Wolfgang nodded, his eyes never leaving the imposing figure of the Blood Lord. "Yup. She's the Blood Lord. Carla Cromwell. One of the most powerful noble vampires in the demon realm," he explained, his tone a mixture of respect and wariness. "She has history with the Onmyoji and Taimanins, as she hopes for a peaceful co-existence between humans and vampires."
Felicia, who had been uncharacteristically quiet since Carla's arrival, finally spoke up. Her usual disturbingly cheerful bravado was replaced by genuine confusion as she looked at the Blood Lord, a flicker of recognition in her eyes. "How is auntie here and siding with the Taimanins?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
Before anyone could respond, Edwin Black's stern voice cut through the air. "Quiet," he scolded his daughter, his eyes never leaving Carla.
The Blood Lord, for her part, seemed unperturbed by the family drama unfolding before her. Instead, she turned her attention to Wolfgang, her scarlet eyes narrowing slightly. With a resigned sigh, she addressed her nephew. "My, my... Your recklessness knows no bounds, boy."
Wolfgang's shoulders slumped slightly at her words, a rare display of vulnerability from the usually confident fighter. "That's the very part of me that's an old habit that never dies," he admitted, running a hand through his hair. "I was just hoping to put an end to this family drama before this goes way out of hand. It's too early about thinking about killing the old man, the same goes for my batshit crazy sister. Besides, I already made a lot of enemies in the demon realm more than him."
His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of unresolved conflicts and the complexities of his relationships. Rin, Shizuru and Fuuma exchanged worried glances, suddenly feeling like outsiders in this family affair.
Wolfgang's past loomed heavily over him, a dark shadow that threatened to eclipse his present. The atrocities he had committed after his MMA career had earned him a fearsome reputation among demons. The burning of the Orc Village, the genocide that followed, and the gruesome end he brought to Gram Derrick during the Cromwell civil war - all of these acts had transformed him from a revered figure to a dreaded one.
As he reflected on these events, Wolfgang's expression hardened. "It's like being afraid of Superman," he muttered, a hint of bitter amusement in his voice.
The scene shifted, memories flooding back of a particular encounter in Tokyo Kingdom. Wolfgang had been hunting a target, aware that Nomad was on his trail. With ruthless efficiency, he had dispatched Black's enforcers - Ingrid and Oboro. Oboro had fallen quickly, crushed like an insect beneath the Tyrant Wolf's might. The Hell Knight, Ingrid, had put up a more formidable fight, but even she succumbed to Wolfgang's cunning. Using his alchemical powers, he transmuted her prized sword, Dark Flame, into wood, snapping it like a twig before sending her crashing through a wall with a devastating push kick.
Then came Felicia, his estranged sister, wielding a jet-black scythe. Despite her ancestral vampire blood, she was no match for Wolfgang's unpredictable ferocity. The fight was brutally one-sided, with Wolfgang unleashing a savage beatdown on the vampire princess.
The contrast was stark - a physically childlike vampire girl at the mercy of a 6'1" monster. Wolfgang didn't need to transform into his beast mode; his human form was more than enough to leave Felicia battered and bleeding.
Grabbing her by the ankle, Wolfgang slammed Felicia repeatedly against the ground, his words as punishing as his blows. "Pathetic!" he roared. "Is this all the old man's genes amount to? Meaningless! Vampire or not, you'll never reach my level. As long as I live, I will surpass him, and you? You'll fucking die right where you stand!"
With a final, devastating slam, Wolfgang pinned Felicia down, his foot pressing on her neck. His eyes blazed with a mix of disgust and anger as he continued his verbal assault.
"You're a fucking eyesore, you know that? An eternal child with a serial killer's mind. It sickens me that you murdered your own sister's mother, one of the old man's concubines. You're nothing but a stunted brat!" Wolfgang's voice grew louder, more intense. "THINK, FELICIA! Do you even comprehend the lives you've taken? If you keep killing at this rate, there'll be no one left to kill - human or demon! You'll outlive every insignificant being on this planet. Even the old man might abandon you when you're no longer useful. EVERYONE and EVERYTHING you know WILL BE GONE! WHAT WILL YOU HAVE AFTER THOUSANDS OF YEARS?"
Just as Wolfgang prepared to deliver the killing blow, a swarm of bats materialized, forcing him to retreat from Felicia's broken form. A middle-aged man in a brown and red longcoat appeared - Edwin Black, Wolfgang's biological father.
Black had brought Wolfgang's target with him, unconscious for reasons unknown. "Enough, Wolfgang," he commanded. "You can have him."
Wolfgang's lips curled into a sneer. "It's a pity she couldn't surpass me," he taunted, collecting his bounty and departing.
As Wolfgang left, Edwin couldn't shake the fear that his son might one day become his greatest threat - not just to his criminal empire, but to his standing among demons. Yet, unlike his father, Wolfgang had achieved greatness in the world of combat sports. The moral compass instilled in him by figures like Ambrose and Lady Cromwell had kept him from fully embracing the dark path.
The flashback faded, bringing Wolfgang back to the present. Black prepared to leave with Felicia, but not before the vampire princess defiantly gave her brother the middle finger, sticking out her tongue and pulling down her eyelid. With a dramatic flourish of his longcoat, Black vanished with Felicia, leaving no trace behind.
Wolfgang watched them disappear, a hint of amusement playing on his lips. Despite the intensity of their confrontation, he found himself more entertained than offended by Felicia's taunt.
The hybrid demon turned to his teammates and her aunt, his voice tinged with remorse and a hint of frustration. "This one is really on me," Wolfgang admitted, running a hand through his hair. "Not just my issues with the old man and Felicia, I also had dirty laundry from my past that I still need to clean up. I'm sorry I had to drag you guys into this mess."
His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of unspoken history and complicated family dynamics. The team exchanged glances, a mix of concern and understanding evident in their expressions.
Rin stepped forward, her posture straight and her voice firm yet compassionate. "You don't have to apologize, Wolfgang," she said, placing a reassuring hand on his arm. "Remember what I said before? If there's anyone who knows Edwin Black and Nomad better, it's you. Not having that information would make things much more difficult for us to deal with Nomad."
Her eyes narrowed slightly as she continued, her tone taking on a more authoritative edge. "However, I must warn you about going overboard with your Royal Knight form. And after this mission," she added, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips despite her serious demeanor, "I'm going to have to straighten you up for almost breaking your oath! It's a good thing none of the Dutch royal guards are here, but as your squad leader, you're my responsibility."
Wolfgang's shoulders relaxed slightly at her words, a mix of relief and acceptance crossing his features. "Fair game," he replied with a shrug, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips. His willingness to accept the consequences of his actions was evident in his casual stance.
The tension in the air began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding. It was then that Carla, who had been observing the exchange with keen interest, decided to lighten the mood further.
The Blood Lord's scarlet eyes twinkled with mischief as she turned her gaze to her nephew's Taimanin allies. "Aww," she cooed, her voice a melodious tease, "looks like my weltmeister is now in love with a Taimanin. "
Her words sent a ripple of surprise through the group. Wolfgang's eyes widened slightly, a faint blush creeping up his neck despite his best efforts to maintain his composure. Rin, caught off guard by the sudden comment, found herself fighting back a blush of her own.
Carla's keen eyes hadn't missed the subtle signs of attraction between Wolfgang and Rin, even though the two had maintained strict professionalism during their missions. Now, with the immediate threat dealt with and the mission completed, the vampire queen saw an opportunity to tease her biological nephew and perhaps nudge the budding relationship along.
Kotaro and Shizuru exchanged knowing glances, barely suppressing their amusement at their teammates' discomfort. The air was suddenly charged with a different kind of tension, one that spoke of unacknowledged feelings and the potential for something more.
Wolfgang cleared his throat, struggling to find the right words to respond to his aunt's playful jab. "Your highness," he began, his voice a mix of exasperation and fondness, "I don't think now is the time for-"
But before he could finish his sentence, Rin cut in, her cheeks still tinged with pink but her voice steady. "Our personal lives are not relevant to the mission, Lady Cromwell," she stated, attempting to steer the conversation back to professional grounds.
Carla's musical laughter filled the air. "Oh, my dears," she said, her eyes dancing with amusement, "personal lives and professional duties often intertwine in the most interesting ways. But fear not, I won't pry further... for now."
The group stood in awkward silence for a moment, the air thick with unspoken words and hidden emotions. It was clear that Carla's innocent tease had stirred up feelings that both Wolfgang and Rin had been carefully keeping in check.
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the battlefield, the team realized it was time to wrap up their mission and head back.
The next day, a peaceful weekend dawned on the horizon. With classes suspended and only a handful of Taimanins assigned to missions, the junior ninjas took on dispatch duties, allowing their more experienced counterparts a well-deserved break.
In a secluded area, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sound of rushing water, Wolfgang found himself engaged in a time-honored martial arts tradition. Shirtless, wearing only his martial arts trousers and protective wrist and foot guards, he stood beneath a powerful waterfall. The icy cascade pounded relentlessly against his head and shoulders, a test of both physical endurance and mental fortitude.
This form of meditation, practiced by many Taimanins, was a favorite of Wolfgang's. The frigid water helped clear his mind, pushing his limits and honing his concentration. As he stood there, eyes closed and breathing steady, memories of similar sessions in his homeland flashed through his mind.
After what felt like hours, Wolfgang finally opened his eyes, feeling refreshed and centered. He stepped out from under the waterfall, water cascading down his muscular frame. As he made his way back to dry land, he began to speak, seemingly addressing no one in particular.
"You know," he started, running a hand through his wet hair, "I've mentioned before how my family drama could give the Mishimas from Tekken a run for their money. It's almost laughable how similar it is sometimes." He paused, a wry smile playing on his lips. "But man, this waterfall meditation? It's something else. Reminds me of the times I did this back in the Loenen. That place is known as one of the biggest waterfalls in Holland, you know?"
His expression grew more serious as he continued, "And Felicia... I've got a feeling that little imp isn't done with me yet. But hey, that's family for you, right?" He chuckled darkly before his tone shifted again. "Speaking of family matters, I nearly lost it with my knight mode during that last mission. Good thing Rin was there to keep me in check. And let me tell you, her idea of punishment? Well..."
Wolfgang's voice trailed off as he recalled the events of the previous night. What he had anticipated to be a passionate encounter between himself, Rin, and Shizuru took an unexpected turn. Instead of their usual intimate activities, Rin had other plans in mind.
"So there I was," Wolfgang continued, a mix of amusement and embarrassment coloring his voice, "thinking we were about to have one of our usual threesome sessions. Boy, was I in for a surprise."
He described how Rin had used her feet to massage his crotch relentlessly, bringing him to orgasm repeatedly. Under normal circumstances, such treatment might have been humiliating, especially with Shizuru sleeping nearby. But Wolfgang, ever the wildcard, found himself enjoying the experience more than he'd expected.
"I couldn't help it," he admitted, laughing at the memory. "There I was, moaning and grunting, but also laughing like a madman. And Rin and Shizuru? They were loving every second of it."
He went on to recount how Rin had taken things even further the second time around, pushing the boundaries of pleasure and comedy. By the end of it, Wolfgang had been left completely worn out, his eyes comically unfocused and his mouth hanging open in a dazed expression.
"You should have seen their faces," he chuckled. "Rin and Shizuru were in stitches. I guess they figured out that even something as twisted as that can become hilarious if you take it far enough."
As the memory faded, Wolfgang's laughter subsided, and he shook his head in amusement. "At least Rin didn't decide to zap my junk with her Lightning Art. That would've been a whole different kind of punishment."
He paused, a mischievous glint in his eye. "After they were done with me, those two got pretty cozy with each other. Kissing, touching, and well... let's just say things got pretty steamy between them. The rest, as they say, is history."
Wolfgang continued, his voice taking on a more reflective tone as he gazed out at the surrounding nature. "You know, being an anti-hero in this world isn't exactly a walk in the park," he mused, running a hand through his damp blue hair. "Especially considering the kind of universe we're in."
He chuckled darkly, shaking his head. "I mean, let's face it. I'm an original character in a series that's not exactly known for its... wholesome content. Female ninjas getting captured and violated on the regular? That's Tuesday around here." His expression grew somber. "It's hard not to feel for them, you know? The way they're objectified... it's pretty fucked up."
Wolfgang's eyes narrowed as he continued, "But things are changing, at least a bit. The gacha games came along, and suddenly we've got two different paths. RPGX stuck to its guns with the explicit content, while Action Taimanin decided to keep things PG... or, is it? As for our little corner of this universe?" He grinned, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Well, let's just say we keep things a bit more... vanilla. At least when it comes to Rin, Shizuru, and moi."
He stretched, his muscles rippling under his skin. "Now, as for me? I'm quite the mix, if I do say so myself. Picture this: take the looks of Cody Rhodes and Max Verstappen, throw in some blue hair for good measure. Add a dash of MMA skills courtesy of Alistair Overeem, and top it off with the fourth-wall-breaking humor of a certain Merc with a Mouth. Voila! You've got yours truly."
His expression darkened slightly as he continued, "But it's not all fun and games. Back in the demon world, I was a down-to-Earth a-hole. No respect for authority, not even for my vampire queen aunt isn't safe. I picked fights even with the top-tier demons, didn't matter if they were good or bad. Hell, I even caused an orc genocide." He paused, his voice dropping to a whisper. "There was a time I was just looking for a place to die."
Wolfgang's eyes refocused, determination setting in. "Even now, fighting alongside the Taimanins, I'm no hero. I'm reckless, I disregard orders when I think it's necessary. But you know what? My goal hasn't changed. I'm fighting for a better tomorrow, for humans and demons alike. I can't change my past, but I sure as hell can change the future. That's how I live now."
He stretched once more, water droplets cascading down his muscular frame. As he prepared to leave the waterfall, he turned back, a wry smile on his face. "It's a complicated life, being an anti-hero in a world like this. But hey, someone's gotta do it, right?"
With that, Wolfgang stretched, his muscles rippling under his still-damp skin.
Meanwhile in the cemetery around Maesaki, Rin visited her mother's grave after not being able to do so for several weeks. The last time someone had come here, it was Wolfgang who had paid his respects in her place. Rin's mother, Setsuna, had been a pivotal figure in Wolfgang's life, one of the few who genuinely cared for his well-being. It was Wolfgang's heroism that had saved Setsuna years ago, preventing Rin from becoming an orphan.
The autumn breeze rustled through the trees as Rin knelt before the tombstone. She carefully cleaned it, her fingers tracing the engraved characters of her mother's name. After placing fresh flowers and lighting incense, Rin closed her eyes in a moment of silent prayer.
As she finished, she sensed a familiar presence approaching. The Blood Lord herself, Carla, had come to pay her respects. Carla's connection to the Onmyoji and Taimanins ran deep, and her visit to Setsuna's grave was a testament to their intertwined histories.
After Carla offered her own brief prayer, she turned to Rin. Her crimson eyes held a mixture of nostalgia and sorrow as she began to speak.
"You know, Rin," Carla said, her voice low and thoughtful, "Kaiser did me a huge favor once. It was during a time of civil war within our clan. He killed my uncle, who was planning to turn Kitae - a distant relative of your Uehara clan - into a slave."
Rin listened intently, knowing that any story involving Wolfgang was bound to be intense.
Carla continued, a hint of pride in her voice, "This happened right after his first world championship victory. True to his nature, Kaiser didn't just defeat my uncle - he annihilated him in the most gruesome way imaginable."
The Blood Lord then described the brutal scene in vivid detail. "Picture Edwin Black, if you will, but as both a kickboxer and a professional wrestler rolled into one. That's the level of violence we're talking about here."
Rin winced slightly as Carla recounted how Wolfgang had broken both of her uncle's arms with Kimura locks, beaten him to within an inch of his life, and finally snapped his neck. But the violence didn't end there - Wolfgang had gone on to engrave a 'W' on the corpse and even urinated on it afterward.
"Yeah, he sure is that vicious," Rin said with a small, somewhat uncomfortable smile. "It doesn't help that he looks just like his father."
Carla's expression softened as she delved deeper into Wolfgang's past. "You know, if the Nazis hadn't risen to power, Kaiser's life could have been so different. He might have lived peacefully, happily. I'll never forget finding him outside Auschwitz after the war, the sorrow etched on his face. Even in the demon realm, misfortune seemed to follow him until he met Ambrose."
Rin nodded, understanding the weight of Wolfgang's experiences. "Hard times breed better men, they say. Even so, he made history in combat sports."
She paused, remembering a particularly difficult moment. "There was a time I saw him at his lowest, just after we buried my mother. He said he should have died a long time ago. Not because of his immortality, but because he couldn't bear to watch the people he cared about pass away as time marched on."
Carla's eyes filled with empathy. "For Kaiser, not being able to say goodbye is what hurts him the most. When TJ Moskowitz quietly retired from MMA, Kaiser was visibly heartbroken. They were worthy opponents, sharing brutal battles and trading the world title back and forth. Kaiser's career ended on a bittersweet note, losing his title in his final match."
The Blood Lord's voice grew heavy as she continued, "But then came his fall from grace. The burning of the orc village in the demon realm, the ensuing genocide... Since then, Kaiser has made many enemies. He feels like he has no place in our world anymore, which is why he chose to stay in the human world."
As they stood there, surrounded by the quiet solemnity of the cemetery, both women reflected on the complex, often tragic life of the man they both cared for deeply. The setting sun cast long shadows across the graves, a fitting backdrop to the somber conversation about a man whose life had been marked by both greatness and darkness.
"It was thanks to his role in bolstering the Dutch royal guards that the Queen gave him a knight sword," Rin said, her voice filled with pride as she recounted Wolfgang's achievements. "He eventually became the 12th Royal Knight, embracing his past and atoning for his sins. It's like he found a new purpose in life, you know? His role in the task force will always remain invaluable."
Carla nodded, a warm smile spreading across her face. "That's why I'm proud of him. I raised him to be just and virtuous, and he's lived up to that and more." Her crimson eyes softened as she continued, "Even if he has the same blood as Edwin, Kaiser will always remain true to who he is, not living in anyone else's shadow."
Rin looked thoughtful for a moment, then added, "You know, it's funny. When he first told me about becoming a Royal Knight, I couldn't quite picture it. Wolfgang, the rough-and-tumble MMA fighter, in royal regalia?" She chuckled softly. "But then I saw him at the ceremony, standing tall and proud. It was... well, it was something else."
Carla's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Oh, I can imagine. Did he manage to keep a straight face through the whole thing?"
"Barely," Rin laughed. "I caught him winking at me once or twice. But overall, he took it seriously. I think it really meant something to him, you know?"
The Blood Lord nodded, her expression growing more serious. "It did. For Kaiser, it was more than just a title or a fancy sword. It was a chance to use his strength to protect others, to be part of something bigger than himself."
Rin's gaze drifted back to her mother's grave. "I think mom would have been proud of him too. She always saw the good in him, even when others couldn't."
"Setsuna had a gift for that," Carla agreed. "She saw the potential in people, the light hidden beneath the darkness. And with Kaiser, she was right on the money."
Even with her mother gone, Rin found herself fulfilling a role Setsuna had always hoped to: guiding Wolfgang towards a life worth living, even in the face of inevitable loss. She recalled the Ceremonial Atonement, a pivotal moment in Wolfgang's journey. The ritual had been intense and emotionally charged, with Wolfgang on all fours, enduring attacks from other task force members for a grueling two minutes.
Rin closed her eyes, remembering the scene vividly. Wolfgang's face had been a mask of determination, his body tensed as he withstood blow after blow. It wasn't just a physical test, but a spiritual one - a symbol of embracing his pain and accepting the consequences of his past actions.
"You know," Rin said softly to Carla, "that knighting ceremony... it was more than just pomp and circumstance for him. The Dutch royal family, they really want him to heal, to move forward."
Carla nodded, her crimson eyes reflecting understanding. "They're giving him the chance to carve his own path, to shape his own future. It's a rare opportunity, especially for someone with his... complicated history."
Rin's gaze drifted to the horizon, her mind working through the complexities of Wolfgang's existence. "It's funny, in a way. If you look at Kurenai Shinganji, she embraced her human part. And Felicia, she's fully embraced her demonic lineage." A small smile played on her lips as she continued, "But Wolfgang... he represents the balance of both, doesn't he? Human and demon, existing in harmony."
"Despite his bloodstained past," Rin mused, her voice tinged with a mixture of sadness and hope, "his heart knows no true malice. It's proof, I think, that any being - human or demon - can embrace the light if they choose to."
Carla's expression softened, a hint of pride gleaming in her eyes. "You're right. And that's precisely why he has the power to create a better tomorrow for both humans and demons." She gestured to an imaginary sword, mimicking Wolfgang's stance. "That sword given to him by the Dutch royals? He'll only ever use it to protect those who can't defend themselves, and to stand against those who would sow the seeds of hatred."
The Blood Lord's voice took on a more serious tone as she continued, "His role as a bridge between our two worlds is crucial. He has the potential to lead both humanity and demonkind down a path of peace." She turned to Rin, her gaze intense. "Rin, please, tell him not to waver in his goal. I'm truly glad he has friends like you in this world."
Rin nodded solemnly, feeling the weight of Carla's words. "I will. And you're right, he does have friends here. Good ones."
Carla's expression softened once more, a hint of hope in her voice. "You know, I believe that one day, even those who once put him on a pedestal only to fear and loathe him... they might come to forgive him. It won't be easy, and it won't happen overnight. But if anyone can earn that forgiveness, it's him."
As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the cemetery, Carla's expression shifted. Her crimson eyes held a mix of fondness and anticipation as she reached into her dress, pulling out three small, cube-like objects. They were intricate and beautiful, each one glowing faintly with an otherworldly energy.
"Rin," Carla said, her voice soft but serious, "I have something for Kaiser. These aren't ordinary trinkets."
Rin leaned in, curious. The cubes seemed to pulse with life, each one unique in its design and energy.
Carla held up the first cube, which shimmered with a deep blue light. "This one contains a Seasaurian Kaiser befriended when he was a boy, his name Hydrageist. It's a serpentine, aquatic dragon that can help you in the sea if needed."
The second cube glowed with a warm, earthy brown. "This is a Triceradon, triceratops-like dragons known for their sharp horns and brute strength on the ground, Kaiser gave him the name Tyranotops."
Finally, Carla presented the third cube, which pulsed with a brilliant golden light. "And this... this one holds Hangman, the four-winged dragon Kaiser brought into your world. All of them have the power and materials needed to create weapons not just for himself, but for you Taimanins."
Rin's eyes widened as she realized the significance of these gifts. "These are... his old friends?"
Carla nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "More than friends. Allies. Protectors. Give these to Kaiser. With their help, he and the task force will be better equipped to face whatever challenges lie ahead."
Carefully, Carla placed the three cubes in Rin's hands. They felt warm to the touch, alive with potential.
"Thank you," Rin said, her voice filled with gratitude. "I know these will mean a lot to him."
Carla's expression softened further, her eyes twinkling with a knowing look. "Rin... I hope you know that I see more than just these old friendships. I see the bond between you and my nephew."
Rin felt a blush creep across her cheeks, but she didn't look away. Carla continued, her voice warm and sincere, "You two... you're good for each other. You balance each other in ways I never thought possible. You have my blessing, and more than that, you have my gratitude for being there for him."
Before Rin could respond, Carla raised her hand, summoning a swirling vortex of darkness. The portal to the demon realm opened, its depths as black as the deepest night.
"Take care of each other," Carla said, stepping towards the portal. "And remind Kaiser that he's never truly alone. Not with friends like these by his side."
With a final nod and a warm smile, Carla stepped through the portal, disappearing back to the Vlad Kingdom in the demon realm. The vortex closed behind her, leaving Rin alone in the cemetery, holding the precious cubes that contained a piece of Wolfgang's past and, perhaps, a key to his future.
Rin looked down at the cubes in her hands, feeling their weight and the potential they held. She couldn't wait to see Wolfgang's face when she gave them to him.
Later that evening, the warm glow of the setting sun filtered through the windows of Rin's mansion, casting long shadows across the polished wooden floors. Wolfgang sat on a plush leather couch, his eyes fixed on the three small cubes nestled in his palms. Each cube pulsed with a gentle light, a reminder of the friends and adventures from his past.
"I can't believe Lady Cromwell brought these to you," Wolfgang said softly, his voice filled with a mix of gratitude and nostalgia. He looked up at Rin, who was perched on the arm of the couch beside him. "She's always been more than just my aunt. She's the only real mother figure I've ever had."
Rin nodded, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "She cares about you deeply, Wolfgang. It's clear in everything she does."
Wolfgang's fingers traced the intricate patterns on the cubes as he spoke. "Even though I'm not going to go back there, Lady Cromwell is the only one who still has high regard for me." He paused, his expression darkening slightly. "Then again, the fact I've done a lot of messed up shit in the demon realm, I feel like I have no place there. Besides, Ambrose and his family decided to move here to enjoy what the human world has to offer."
Rin placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You can still go back there, if you want to. If you want to make amends for what you've done there."
Wolfgang's eyes met hers, a flicker of hope mixed with uncertainty. "Perhaps, you're right. Only when the time is right," he sighed, his gaze returning to the cubes.
The moment was interrupted by the soft padding of feet on the hardwood floor. Shizuru appeared in the doorway, her usual playful smile on her face. She leaned against the frame, her eyes darting between Wolfgang and Rin with a mixture of curiosity and amusement.
"I wonder what's going on with the two of you? " she asked, her voice lilting with a teasing tone.
Wolfgang and Rin exchanged a quick glance, both slightly caught off guard by Shizuru's sudden appearance. Rin was the first to respond, her cheeks flushing slightly.
"Oh, Shizuru! We were just... Wolfgang was showing me something interesting." She gestured to the cubes in Wolfgang's hands.
Shizuru's eyes lit up with interest as she sauntered into the room. "Ooh, what are those? They look magical!"
Wolfgang cleared his throat, sitting up a bit straighter. "They're... well, they're old friends, in a way. Lady Cromwell brought them from the demon realm."
Shizuru plopped down on the couch next to Wolfgang, peering at the cubes. "Friends? In little boxes? How mysterious!" She giggled, her curiosity piqued. "Care to share the story behind them, Wolfgang?"
"That's for another time. If anything, these guys are basically ripped straight out of Pokemon and Monster Hunter.", he said, as the reference from two video games that Wolfgang has knowledge of.
A few people could barely understand his logic, it only takes for anyone to get the reference. Rin basically shrugs it as if she got the gist of it.
"Well, that's Wolfgang for you.", Rin chuckled. "As expected for a hybrid demon who lives and breathes by breaking the fourth wall."
Rin is already used to Wolfgang's eccentricities, be it as a teacher in Gosha Academy or as a martial arts master. Having him around in her life and in the task force is a blessing in disguise, as he found a reason to keep fighting and living. Shizuru is now already adapting to it, and this makes this dynamic between two Gosha teachers and an alchemist more interesting.
A few hours later, as night descended upon Rin's mansion, the atmosphere shifted from casual conversation to something more intimate. The soft glow of bedside lamps cast a warm, inviting light across the room, creating shadows that danced along the walls.
Wolfgang, Rin, and Shizuru found themselves drawn to the comfort of the large bed, their bodies intertwining as passion overtook them. The air grew heavy with the scent of desire and the sound of soft moans and whispered endearments.
Shizuru, always enthusiastic and full of energy, was the first to reach her limit. Her hair splayed across the pillow, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she caught her breath. "That was... incredible," she murmured, a satisfied smile playing on her lips before she drifted into a contented sleep.
With Shizuru resting peacefully, Wolfgang and Rin turned their attention fully to each other. Their eyes locked, conveying a depth of emotion that words couldn't capture. Wolfgang's hands traced the curves of Rin's body, eliciting soft sighs of pleasure. Rin's fingers tangled in Wolfgang's hair, pulling him closer as their bodies moved in perfect synchronicity.
The intensity built between them, growing stronger with each passing moment until they both reached their peak simultaneously. Their cries of ecstasy mingled in the air as waves of pleasure washed over them.
As their bodies stilled, Wolfgang and Rin shared a kiss that was both tender and passionate. It spoke of their deep connection, of the bond that had grown between them through shared experiences and mutual understanding.
Rin slowly disentangled herself from Wolfgang, a mischievous glint in her eyes. She repositioned herself in front of him, her feet coming to rest on either side of his still-sensitive shaft.
Wolfgang's eyes widened as he realized what was coming next. He glanced towards an unseen presence, as if breaking the fourth wall, and whispered with a mix of anticipation and resignation, "Oh shit... here we go again."
Rin let out a low, sultry chuckle, her lips curving into a devilish smile. "Here we go again, it is. " Her voice was filled with playful promise, sending a shiver down Wolfgang's spine.
As Rin stretched out her bare foot, preparing to begin her sensual massage, Wolfgang addressed the unseen presence once more. His voice was a mixture of excitement and mock dread as he said, "This is gonna to suck, like really. Mind if we skip to the next scene?"
The air crackled with tension and desire as Rin's foot made contact with Wolfgang's sensitive flesh. His sharp intake of breath was the last sound before the scene faded away.
When awareness returned, the three lovers were sprawled across the bed, basking in the afterglow of their passionate encounter. Their bodies glistened with a light sheen of sweat, and satisfied smiles graced their faces. The room was filled with a comfortable silence, broken only by their soft, steady breathing.
Wolfgang lay in the middle, one arm wrapped around Rin, who was curled against his side, her head resting on his chest. His other hand absently stroked Shizuru's hair, as she lay on his other side, her leg draped over his.
The intimacy they shared went beyond the physical. It was a moment of true connection, of three souls finding comfort and understanding in each other's presence. As they lay there, content and at peace, the worries of the outside world seemed far away, leaving only the warmth of their shared bond.
While Rin gently stroked Wolfgang's blue hair, he remained awake, inhaling the sweet scent of her own azure locks. The room was bathed in a soft, warm glow from the bedside lamp, casting long shadows across the walls. The peaceful silence was broken only by their steady breathing and the occasional rustle of sheets.
Suddenly, Shizuru stirred beside them. Her eyes fluttered open, and a mysterious red energy began to emanate from her hand. With a graceful movement, she placed her glowing palm on Wolfgang's bare chest. The energy pulsed and flowed, seeping into his skin.
"What are you doing?" Rin whispered, curiosity evident in her voice.
Shizuru smiled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "I'm imbuing him with Taima Particles," she explained softly. "Just like you did with your Lightning Art."
Wolfgang felt the warmth of the particles spreading through his body. It was a strange sensation, but not unpleasant. He marveled at how different it felt compared to his past experiences with Taima Particles. Once, they would have caused him immense pain, a reminder of the divide between demons and Taimanin. But now, as an ascended demon fighting for good, the particles harmonized with his being.
"Hey, Wolfgang," Shizuru said, her voice filled with excitement. "I saw how you mustered Tonitruum Lupus, thanks to Rin imbuing you with her particles. I bet you can unlock another form with mine."
Wolfgang nodded, feeling the new power coursing through him. It was different from Rin's lightning - this energy felt earthy and vibrant, reminiscent of Shizuru's Wood Art. "Yeah, that's what I managed to pull off when I felt the particles coursing around me," he replied, his voice low and thoughtful. "It's incredible, really. I can feel the potential of your power mingling with mine."
Shizuru's smile widened. "Use it well. " Her voice took on a more serious tone as she continued, "That's a reminder that you're now part of something bigger, Wolfgang. You're not just fighting alongside us - you're carrying a piece of us with you."
Rin nodded in agreement, her hand still gently caressing Wolfgang's hair. "It's a symbol of our trust in you, and our bond," she added softly.
Wolfgang felt a lump form in his throat, touched by their words and actions. "I'll give it a try," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you both. This... this means more to me than you know."
He gave a silent nod, feeling overwhelmed by emotion. Shizuru leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, her lips soft and warm against his skin. Rin followed suit, pressing her lips tenderly to his forehead.
As they settled back into the comfortable silence, Wolfgang found himself reflecting on how far he'd come. From a feared demon to a trusted ally and lover of two remarkable Taimanin, he felt a sense of belonging he'd never experienced before.
The three of them drifted off to sleep, their bodies intertwined and their bond strengthened by this new shared power. As consciousness faded, Wolfgang wondered what new abilities this gift from Shizuru might unlock, and what challenges they might face together in the days to come.
The next day, Wolfgang found himself navigating the bustling streets of Tokyo, his mind preoccupied with the task at hand. The Dutch embassy stood tall and imposing against the city skyline, a slice of his homeland amidst the vibrant Japanese metropolis. As he entered the building, the familiar scent of polished wood and leather enveloped him, a stark contrast to the crisp autumn air outside.
Inside the ambassador's office, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation. The ambassador, a distinguished man with salt-and-pepper hair and sharp eyes, greeted Wolfgang with a firm handshake before retrieving a sleek, rectangular attaché case from a hidden safe behind an ornate painting.
"Mr. Wolfgang," the ambassador said, his voice low and serious, "I believe this is what you've come for." He placed the case on the polished mahogany desk between them.
Wolfgang's eyes narrowed as he studied the case. It was unremarkable in appearance, but he could sense the weight of its importance. "I'm not in a position to ask, but what's in this thing?" he inquired, his curiosity piqued.
The ambassador's lips quirked into a small smile. "A weapon designed for both Royal Knight and Taimanin use. It's a marvel of combined Dutch, UFS, and Gosha Taimanin technology." He paused, his gaze intensifying. "If anything, only you can make adjustments on that device. It's been calibrated to respond to your unique... abilities."
Wolfgang nodded, a mixture of excitement and responsibility washing over him. "Beautiful. I'll work it out as soon as I head back to Gosha." He reached out to take the case, but then hesitated, his expression growing serious. "Before I bug out, I want you to alert Hare Majesteit and the big guys in the government about the Nichts Syndicate."
The ambassador leaned forward, his interest piqued. Wolfgang continued, his voice low and urgent, "Recently, these Romper Stompers attempted to take over Tokyo Kingdom, which is controlled by the criminal syndicate Nomad. And a couple of weeks ago, some Taimanins discovered nukes hidden in a cargo ship. Those guys are planning to nuke any location that's full of demons."
The ambassador's face paled, his eyes widening with alarm. "That's terrible... That could spark an international incident if those nukes happen to be from the UFS." His grim expression spoke volumes about the potential consequences. "What happened to the nukes?"
Wolfgang chose his words carefully, mindful of keeping his association with the Taimanin organization under wraps. "They were properly disposed of, to make sure they don't fall into the wrong hands." He maintained a neutral expression, not wanting to give away any more information than necessary.
Relief flooded the ambassador's features, but concern still lingered in his eyes. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Mr. Wolfgang. I will let the queen and the prime minister know immediately." He paused, considering the implications. "I am certain that the military will conduct inspections on cargo ships with subtlety without alarming the general public."
Wolfgang nodded, satisfied that the information would reach the right ears. He picked up the attaché case, feeling its weight – both physical and metaphorical – in his hands. "Okay. I'll be in touch, mate," he said, turning to leave the office.
The day after Wolfgang received the mysterious attaché from the Dutch embassy, he found himself standing beside Rin on a rooftop in the heart of the Chinese Union. The city sprawled beneath them, a maze of neon lights and towering skyscrapers. The air was thick with smog and tension, a palpable reminder of the conflict brewing beneath the surface.
Wolfgang adjusted the strap of his new attaché case, his mind racing with possibilities of what it might contain. He turned to Rin, her azure hair whipping in the wind, her eyes sharp and focused on the mission ahead.
"Quite a mess we've stumbled into, eh?" Wolfgang said, his voice low and gruff.
Rin nodded, her expression grim. "The Nichts Syndicate and the Ryuumon... it's like watching two snakes devour each other."
Their mission was clear: eliminate the presence of both the Nichts Syndicate and the Republic of East Asia, known as the Ryuumon. What had started as a conflict between a neo-Nazi terrorist group and a criminal organization had spiraled into something far more dangerous.
As they made their way through the city, blending into the shadows, Wolfgang and Rin gathered intel. They overheard whispered conversations in dark alleys and intercepted coded messages. The picture that emerged was troubling.
"The Nichts have more backing than we thought," Rin said, her voice tight with concern. "Right-wing politicians from across the world are funneling money and resources to them."
Wolfgang's jaw clenched. "And the Ryuumon?"
"They're outgunned and outmanned," Rin replied. "The Nichts have super-soldiers, kaijins, and weapons smuggled from both the UFS and Chinese Union. The Ryuumon don't stand a chance."
As they delved deeper into their investigation, they uncovered something even more disturbing. In a dimly lit warehouse, they watched as a group of REA soldiers swore allegiance to the Nichts Syndicate.
"For the preservation of our blue and pure world!" the soldiers chanted, their eyes gleaming with a fanatical light.
Wolfgang felt a chill run down his spine. "They're not just joining to save their own skins," he muttered. "They believe in this demon-free master race nonsense."
Rin's hand found his in the darkness, squeezing it tightly. "We need to stop this before it spreads further."
As they left the warehouse, plans already forming in their minds, Wolfgang couldn't help but think of the attaché case he carried. Whatever weapon lay inside, he had a feeling they would need it sooner rather than later.
The city around them seemed to pulse with an ominous energy, the conflict between the Nichts and the Ryuumon threatening to tear it apart.
As Wolfgang and Rin made their way through the chaotic streets of the Chinese Union, their mission suddenly took a turn for the worse. A Nichts soldier, clad in a menacing UFS battle suit, began pursuing them with relentless determination. Simultaneously, REA soldiers poured onto the streets, their weapons drawn and faces twisted with hate.
"Looks like we've stirred up the hornet's nest," Rin muttered, her eyes darting around for an escape route.
Wolfgang's lips curled into a grim smile. "Time to even the odds." He reached into his pocket, pulling out a familiar Rubik's cube-like device. It was a gift from Lady Cromwell, one that had proven invaluable in tight spots.
With practiced ease, Wolfgang began manipulating the cube, his fingers dancing across its surface until the yellow side was complete. "Fucking insects," he growled, "Say hello to my friend." With a powerful throw, he launched the cube into the air.
The device burst open in a flash of otherworldly light. From within emerged a beast that defied conventional description - Tyranotops, a fearsome land dragon from the demon realm known as a Triceradon. Its massive, armored body was crowned with three razor-sharp horns, and its eyes gleamed with primal intelligence.
"Sicc 'em, boy!" Wolfgang commanded, pointing towards the approaching enemies.
The Tyranotops needed no further encouragement. With an earth-shaking roar, it charged into the fray. Its horns became instruments of destruction, goring Nichts and REA soldiers alike. Bodies flew through the air as the beast carved a path of carnage, giving Wolfgang and Rin a much-needed reprieve.
As the chaos unfolded around them, Wolfgang's hand moved to the attaché case he'd received from the Dutch ambassador. The weight of it had been a constant reminder of its importance throughout their mission. Now, it was time to unveil its contents.
With a click, the case sprung open, revealing a marvel of engineering. Inside lay not just a sword, but a modular weapon system. Multiple blades of varying sizes nestled together, each designed to combine with the main blade in intricate ways.
Wolfgang activated the weapon, and the components sprang to life. Smaller blades slid into place along the length of the main sword, while larger pieces locked onto the hilt and guard. Within seconds, the disparate parts had coalesced into an imposing claymore that hummed with barely contained energy.
The bounty hunter whistled in appreciation, his eyes roving over the weapon's sleek design. "The guys in the palace really are into Final Fantasy or something," he quipped, testing the sword's weight. "And I suck at giving weapons a name. I'll just call it the Verstappen anyway."
Rin, despite the gravity of their situation, couldn't help but roll her eyes. "Really?" she asked, her voice tinged with exasperation. "You named it after a Formula 1 driver who also happens to be your countryman, not to mention your appearance is a pastiche of Max Verstappen!"
Wolfgang grinned, unrepentant. His expression hardened as he turned back to the battle raging around them. The Tyranotops was still wreaking havoc, but more enemies were pouring in from the side streets.
"Well, I'll just leave it that way. For now, it's ass kicking time!"
With that battle cry, Wolfgang charged into the fray, the newly christened Verstappen glowing with an otherworldly light. Rin was right behind him, her own weapons at the ready.
[Soundtrack: "Photon Stream" by Toshihiko Sahashi from Ultraman Gaia]
Wolfgang and Rin split up, each taking on waves of enemies in their own unique style. Wolfgang hefted the Verstappen, its massive blade glinting in the city's neon lights. Despite its size, the sword felt balanced in his hands, no heavier than Murasaki's giant axe. He used the broad side as a shield, deflecting a hail of bullets from the approaching Nichts soldiers.
With a fierce grin, Wolfgang charged forward. The Verstappen sang through the air, cleaving through two REA soldiers in a single, devastating blow. Blood sprayed, and bodies fell, but Wolfgang didn't pause. He spun, facing a group of Chimera bioweapons - grotesque combinations of man and beast. Their inhuman shrieks filled the air, but Wolfgang remained unfazed.
"Come on, you ugly bastards," he growled, his eyes gleaming with the thrill of battle.
He swung the Verstappen in a wide arc, and suddenly, two smaller blades detached from the main sword. These kodachi-like weapons, with their translucent blue blades, transformed mid-air into boomerangs. They whirled around Wolfgang in a deadly dance, slicing through enemies with surgical precision. REA soldiers and Nichts operatives alike fell, cut cleanly in half by the unexpected assault.
As the blade-boomerangs returned to the Verstappen, clicking back into place, Wolfgang allowed himself a moment of satisfaction. But the battle was far from over. He could see another wave of enemies approaching, their weapons glinting menacingly in the dim light.
Suddenly, the music screeched to a halt, replaced by an unmistakable sound - the noise of a zipper being pulled down.
"Oh fuck! Why at a time like this?!" Wolfgang exclaimed, his face contorting in discomfort. The call of nature was terrible timing, especially in the middle of a bloody battlefield.
He glanced around quickly. Rin was nearby, but she was fully engrossed in her own fight, her volt blades flashing as she cut down enemies left and right. Taking advantage of her distraction, Wolfgang made a split-second decision.
With as much discretion as one could muster in the middle of a warzone, Wolfgang approached a fallen Nichts soldier. He unzipped his fly and began to relieve himself on the corpse, a stream of light yellow fluid defacing the dead enemy in a final, humiliating act.
As he went about his business, Wolfgang couldn't help but smirk. It wasn't the first time he'd desecrated the dead in such a manner - memories of a similar incident involving his aunt's uncle flashed through his mind. He knew it was offensive, even by his standards, but there was a part of him that enjoyed pushing boundaries, even if only for the reaction of some unseen audience.
"Whew... much better," Wolfgang sighed as he zipped up. He turned, breaking the fourth wall with a mischievous grin. "Okay, hit the music!"
[Soundtrack: "Version Up Fight!" by Toshihiko Sahashi from Ultraman Gaia]
"Better," Wolfgang declared, reaching for the Verstappen. He had stabbed it into the ground earlier, and now it stood like Excalibur, waiting for its rightful wielder. As his hand closed around the hilt, he felt a surge of energy course through him.
Meanwhile, Rin was a whirlwind of lightning and steel. Her volt blades hummed with energy as she sliced through a Nichts spider drone, its mechanical legs twitching as it collapsed. Without missing a beat, she spun to face a new wave of enemies.
With fluid grace, Rin extended her volt whips. The crackling energy lashed out, wrapping around an REA soldier's ankle. With a powerful yank, she lifted the screaming man off his feet and used him as a human flail, slamming him into a group of oncoming Nichts infantry. Bodies flew like bowling pins, accompanied by the sickening crunch of breaking bones.
Meanwhile, Wolfgang tossed the Verstappen aside, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Catch!" he shouted to Rin, who instinctively reached out to grab the massive sword.
To Rin's surprise, the Verstappen landed in her hands with unexpected lightness. She marveled at its intricate design, realizing that despite its imposing size, the sword's frame was crafted from a durable yet lightweight material. The main blade itself housed five additional swords - a hollow front blade, two long back blades, and two short side blades - each nested seamlessly within the others.
As Rin examined the weapon, Wolfgang called out, "It's got a few tricks up its sleeve! The short ones can turn into boomerangs, and the long ones can be tonfas or even a double-ender like my Rahu and Ketu!"
Rin nodded, her mind already racing with possibilities. She noticed a hidden barrel in the front blade, understanding it could function as a gunblade on its own. When combined with the other blades, she realized, it could unleash a concentrated energy beam of devastating power.
"It's not just for me," Wolfgang added with a grin. "Any Taimanin can use it. It's designed to amplify Ninja Arts through two modes: Buster Sword and Buster Rifle."
Feeling the familiar surge of her Lightning Art, Rin entered Denki mode. Electricity crackled around her body, her eyes glowing an intense neon blue. The Verstappen seemed to respond to her power, its blades beginning to separate and float around her.
Rin gripped the main blade in her right hand, feeling it hum with energy. With her left, she reached out and grabbed one of the long blades, smoothly connecting it to the bottom of the other to form a double-ended sword. The remaining blades, along with her own volt swords, hovered around her, pointing menacingly at the encroaching enemies.
"Let's see what this baby can do," Rin muttered, a fierce smile playing on her lips. With a battle cry, she charged forward, the blades following her command. As she engaged the first group of enemies, the floating swords shot forward, skewering multiple foes with deadly precision.
Rin was a whirlwind of lightning and steel, the Verstappen's components moving in perfect harmony with her Ninja Arts. She sliced through a Nichts mech with the main blade, then spun to deflect incoming fire with the double-ended sword. The short blades, now transformed into boomerangs, whizzed through the air, cutting down enemies before returning to orbit around her.
"Wolfgang!" she called out, tossing him one of the long blades. "Think fast!"
Wolfgang caught the blade with a grin, immediately putting it to use against a charging group of REA soldiers. "Now this is what I call teamwork!" he shouted back, his eyes gleaming with the thrill of battle.
As they fought back-to-back, the Verstappen's true potential became clear. It wasn't just a weapon, but an extension of their abilities (applying to other Taimanins as well), amplifying their strengths and covering their weaknesses.
The five blades of the Verstappen returned to the central weapon with a satisfying click, as Wolfgang and Rin turned to face the last wave of enemies. The battlefield was littered with the remnants of their previous encounters, but the fight was far from over.
With no more REA forces in sight, all that remained were the attacking Nichts. The neo-Nazi terrorists had brought out their heavy hitters: super-soldiers with enhanced abilities, flanked by menacing spider drones that scuttled across the debris-strewn ground. Tempest mechanical crawlers, their metal legs clanking ominously, advanced alongside heavily armored vehicles that rumbled forward, their engines growling like hungry beasts.
Wolfgang's eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation. With a quick tap on his smartwatch, a circle of ethereal, digitized, and translucent weapons materialized around him. The display flickered with various options, each representing a different tool of destruction. His finger hovered for a moment before selecting Astaroth's bracelets.
In an instant, a copy of the fire demon's accessory materialized and clasped itself around Wolfgang's wrists. The metal was warm to the touch, pulsing with an inner fire that matched the determination in his eyes.
"Let's turn up the heat," Wolfgang grinned, snapping his fingers with a theatrical flourish.
At his command, dozens of fire rabbits - known as Yuuto - began popping into existence around him. These creatures, cute and unassuming at first glance, were far from harmless. Their fur flickered with flames, and their eyes glowed with an otherworldly light.
The Yuuto bounded forward, their tiny paws leaving scorched pawprints in their wake. As they reached the enemy lines, chaos erupted. Each rabbit exploded on contact, turning the battlefield into a sea of fire. Nichts soldiers screamed as they were engulfed in flames, their weapons and armor offering little protection against the magical inferno.
Rin watched in awe as the fire spread, her Lightning Art crackling around her in response to the intense heat. "Impressive," she admitted, "but we're not done yet."
Indeed, through the flames and smoke, the silhouette of a Tempest crawler could be seen advancing. Its heavy armor had protected it from the worst of the Yuuto's assault.
Wolfgang's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "Time for the finale," he declared, raising his hands.
Fire began to gather around his palms, swirling and condensing into a brilliant orange energy. He brought his hands together, the flames intensifying until they were almost white-hot. Then, with a powerful motion, he spread his hands out vertically.
"Rekkazan!" Wolfgang roared, his voice carrying over the crackling flames and the mechanical whir of the approaching Tempest.
A crescent arc of fire erupted from his hands, cutting through the air with a searing hiss. It struck the Tempest dead center, and for a moment, nothing seemed to happen. Then, with a groan of protesting metal, the machine began to split apart.
The Nichts Tempest wasn't just incinerated - it was cleaved clean in half, its two smoking halves falling to either side with a thunderous crash.
As the echo of the explosion faded, an eerie silence fell over the battlefield. Wolfgang and Rin stood amidst the destruction, their chests heaving from exertion.
"All stations," Wolfgang began, activating his comms, "all targets neutralized. We're-"
His words were cut short as a new presence made itself known. A woman with fiery red hair and a form-fitting red dress that accentuated her voluptuous figure appeared before them, floating effortlessly in midair.
"You've got to be shitting me!" Wolfgang exclaimed, his face a mix of surprise and frustration.
Rin's eyes widened in recognition and alarm. "Astaroth! What are you doing in the middle of this war zone?!" she demanded, her volt blades crackling with renewed energy.
Astaroth's laughter rang out across the devastated landscape, a sound both melodious and deeply unsettling. "Ahahahaha! You two had to show up and spoil the fun," she said, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Haven't you seen those Ryuumon turning against each other and siding with those Nazi worms? I find it amusing how humans are willing to betray one another to fight for the strongest side."
Wolfgang's jaw clenched, his earlier bravado replaced by a grim determination. "Being a turncoat is the last thing I'll ever be," he declared firmly. Then, with a hint of resignation in his voice, he added, "Let me guess, you'd come this far to find me here? I was thinking I forgot to honor the end of my bargain."
Rin's mind raced as she recalled Wolfgang's tumultuous rivalry with the Queen of Inferno. Their battles were almost legendary, always ending in stalemates due to outside interference, double knockouts, or other bizarre circumstances. The tension between them was palpable, like two storm fronts colliding.
"Have you lost your mind?" Rin hissed at Wolfgang, her voice low and urgent. "Are you planning to fight her now?!"
Wolfgang turned to Rin, his eyes softening for a moment as he met her concerned gaze. "Rin..." he began, his voice uncharacteristically serious, "To prove I can surpass my old man, I will surpass those who are on the top of the food chain in the other side of this world, including Flame Princess over there." He gestured towards Astaroth, who watched their exchange with amused interest.
"I can't afford to repeat what happened in Kotrara with the crew," Wolfgang continued, a shadow of past regret crossing his face. "We'll just have to fight her together. We'll just have to survive this. Being alive is a bigger fight, and I just want to ensure we can get out of this in one piece."
Rin's expression was a mix of exasperation and grudging admiration. "In that case, should we call for backup?" she asked, already knowing the answer.
Wolfgang shook his head, a confident smirk playing on his lips. "No need. I've fought other top dogs in the demon realm other than Astaroth. That's a reminder of my reputation as a former world champion."
With that, Wolfgang began to change. He shrugged off his leather jacket, letting it fall to the ground. His limbs began to stretch and contort, blue fur sprouting across his body like a rapidly growing forest. A yellow patch manifested on his chest, glowing faintly with an inner light.
Rin watched in fascination as Wolfgang's face elongated into a lupine muzzle, his ears becoming pointed and alert. The transformation completed with the materialization of the Lunar Stone from his chest, its otherworldly power pulsing in sync with Wolfgang's heartbeat.
In a final, almost theatrical gesture, Wolfgang bent down and retrieved his leather jacket, draping it over his shoulders like a cape. The effect was both intimidating and slightly comical - a werewolf in a leather jacket, ready to take on a demon queen.
Astaroth's eyes narrowed, her amused expression replaced by one of keen interest. "Well, well," she purred, flames dancing around her fingertips. "It seems the mutt has some new tricks. Shall we dance, boy?"
"Let's throw down while the fire is burning hot!", Wolfgang's lips curved a grin, as his fangs showed itself, ready to bare them against his prey.