EvoBlaze: Control Sequence/Episode 22/Transcript

Last time on Control Sequence.
A new guy named Hiro who apparently came to our world through the boundary managed to survive and meet Byakai, but a lot of other crap is going on with these illegal groups. You'd think the NOS's higher ups would be more concerned with them instead they wasted their time concerned with me as usual... And while I'm trying to get moving, there's all this damn interference. On the way into a Residential Area we ended up meeting a Seithr Being with a message I didn't care for, not that he lived long-- but the problems only got worse when Myri started to feel ill and the one bastard who I didn't want to see shows up with an agenda: Akuhei.
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VERSE 2 "Primordial Awakenings"
-Episode 22: Core of Hate and Ambition-
 
----"Blue Faith":Lies that cover our hearts and minds:Nothing but hell hidden in this paradise:Control we can't see, the invisible eye that guides our choices:Should we exist in such a world:Where has our purpose gone?:Why does fate make us suffer?:Life is nothing in a world of unending death and suffering waiting to end itself:War and damnation, lies and false truths our souls desire release:But what light can we see in one so dark:Holding all hatred and sorrow:What do you seek but destruction:Lost your ways, the truth is cruel and leads you to hold the thread of fate in this world:Do you still believe in what you fight for, the faith of the deep blue:Its what leads to the truth and guides your hand:tests your resolve to soar on wings stained in black sin:Can you break through and reach for that light hidden in darkness:We must show there's a way of living beyond their truth and their lies:There's power is in all our hands, we must be the change we all wish for:Restore what we've been robbed of by their corrupt sanctions:Powers of destruction that promises to free our world, but will it free our souls?:Soar now on darkness, prevail over fear:Only through hell and the ends of despair:Will we find blue faith and reclaim freedom:We can not rely on gods or fate:We write our own destiny with our choice:Everything never as it seems, our souls soar now on broken wings to promised destruction:To find our blue light in this hell, I believed in this path----
==Nex/Akuhei I: Emerald Wiles==
Nex: Akuhei... you bastard. What the hell are you doing here? 
A tone of hate is carried on every syllable as Nex speaks his name through a sneer while the man stood across from him in the closed in room with his hands planted to his sides in his coat's pockets. He stands with a slight tilt and slouch compared to Nex who is tense and he grips the end of his weapon's hilt. 
Kiryos : (Turns around to face the Destroyer) General…
Akuhei : Ahhah… (smiles in amusement) I’d recognize that tone anywhere, Azure 0. I heard you had all kinds of fun without me.
Nex: ... (Scowls) 
Akuhei: (glances to Kiryos) Major, what’re you doing here hmm? We just dealt with a large eh… “terrorist” conflict and now you’re here with Azure 0 why?
Kiryos : (Folds his arms as he speaks) I was about to apprehend him, but since you are the commanding officer here, the honour is yours, sir.
The black-clad rebel doesn’t say a word, remaining completely focused on Akuhei with a cold anger.
Nex: (To himself) I get what he's doin'... can't exactly blame him. 
Akuhei : Oh? You have an interesting way of apprehending him, considering he’s completely unharmed. (Walks forward) He’s eluded us long enough, even avoided the Marshal and caused a great amount of havoc in the city as is…(changes his tone mockingly) someone has to put a chain of justice around this evil beast, (returns to normal as he smiles and looks at him) no?
Nex : Tch. I pale in comparison to most “evil” in this world, jackass.
Akuhei : Oh don’t be so modest... (puts out his hand outward in front of him) Even you and I… we’re not that different. I mean… you devoured the souls of the 5th area… (smiles as he tilts his head to the side and up) all to consume the energy to reactivate the grimoire! (laughs before he looks back at him and points at Nex's grimoire) And damn, such a dark intent in that manifestation of yours!
Nex moves his free hand behind his back slightly as he adjusts, but he keeps his eye on the man. 
Akuhei: (Shakes his head with a snicker) Built up and conjured into you by all those poor unfortunate souls you’ve taken into it… were you starrrrving? Kieheheehehaa...
Nex : ...Shut up you piece of shit. (Growls with his teeth sliding against eachother) You and I are nothin alike.
Akuhei: (waggles a finger and smiles) Now Nex, you know what they say about overly strong denial don’t you? (frowns suddenly as he raises his brow) Its called a lie to yourself at that point.
Kiryos : (Leans against the wall as he recites the usual line addressed to criminals) Nex Azure 0, surrender now or prepare to face the consequences.
Nex : (Eyes glance at Kiryos) …Think I’ll take the consequences, I don’t give a shit.
Akuhei : Touchy… though I am hurt deep down Nexi boy (mockingly puts his hand to his chest and snickers before he transitions into a slight scowl as he shrugs) you unleashed the Grimoire’s power for that small fry nightmare, yet not for ME?
Nex : (Glares at Akuhei with a firm look) You know exactly why I did it.
Akuhei : (eyes glisten) Enlighten me…(tilts his head out and shrugs with his palm up) you’re a bit foggy to me right now kid. (snickers) Nothin’ is coming through right now just a big ol’ pot of anger.
Nex : …You damned—I didn’t want to see Sieg die!
Akuhei : Soooo you did it to prevent his death, (puts a hand on the side of his own head and grins) Awh… you still a bit attached to little blue are you? How cute. Ehehaa!
Nex: What the fuck was he doing fighting Zaezel?! I thought that was Reiga’s responsibility!
Akuhei: (Frowns lowering his arm and sighs in dejection) I don’t have an ounce of belief in that little joke we call the “Azure Prodigy”. True he’s a bit of a wild card but he’s still destined for failure like em all anyway. (Flashes his smile once more) That reminds me…
Nex: …?
Akuhei: I noticed an interesting eh… pattern. Yes Nex I think this time you might change some shit you've never changed before—And little blue well, he’s headed for an entirely new road! He’s stronger…
Nex: (scrunches his expression) ...Is that why you haven’t killed him?
Akuhei: (Grins tilting his head away) Perhaps. Or maybe it depends on what you do this time. After all you’re making a few changes of your own, kid. (Points to Myri)
Nex: (Closes his eyes shaking his head quickly with a scowl before he opens his eyes once more angrily) I asked about Sieg you jackass not her.
Akuhei: Ah yes, the Brigadier, being the confrontational sort he is, he decided to step in and handle things himself… I mighta’ (gestures sweeping his hand) nudged him along but it was his choice.
Nex : … (Eyes narrow tight as his hands clench) Who initiated him into the NOS?
Akuhei : ...I think you know already, boy.
Slowly, the man walks forward with intent in every step, Nex lowers his head to a sneer at his presence and takes a single step back unsure of what that snake of a man was doing. 
Quietly and with sinister edge in each sylybal the serpent whispers through his teeth when he comes close enough.  
Akuhei: I seize any pieces I see fit, and putting strings in his back is about as easy as fucking with his shattered mind. You know since he lost his will to continue after that cat died, (eyes widen in a sick delight) he’s just. like. putty. (Smiles wickedly as his tone returns to normal) But hey, you just lose more that way, don’t you Nex? 
Nex : YOU BASTARD!
Seconds follow his roar comes and soon comes a flash of metal led by Nex's rage. The edge of Necros suddenly, viciously, cuts air with a furious howl, but Akuhei catches it with his own blade with a loud metallic shriek. Moments pass between before it transitions into a horrid groan as the small serrated blades studded along Leviathan's emerald edges rubs against Necros's edge with hunger. 
Akuhei gives a crude chuckle as the two stare at each other from behind their locked weapons, Nex’s two tone eyes a nova of red and azure malice, and his teeth grind together into a scowl of hate. His hateful gaze locks to Akuhei’s serpentine irises which reflect cold enjoyment and the edges of the Serpent General's jaw raise his expression into a grin.
Kiryos’s eyes follow the fighters as they engage in combat. He tries to notice any shift in power.
Akuhei : You a bit upset at how he’s treating you lately mm? (runs his opposite hand down the edge of Nex’s blade unconcerned) Maybe you shouldn’t of walked out… (smiles as he presses forward and Nex lowers his stance to maintain ground) maybe things would have been different had you not decided to abandon him to that fate after your bastard of a caretaker finally bit the dust huh?
Another groan sounds between their weapons as Akuhei tries to push Nex off guard while he crudly messes with his psyche-- Nex trembles in anger as he keeps his ground and holds his sword tight, not taking his eyes off his opponent for a moment. In swift motion the rebel's blade cries, deflects and stops the attempt Akuhei takes to gouge his chest with the sword. 
Akuhei : I have to say...the night that cat died was a glorious one. From what I heard, Siegfried was CRUSHED. Its the eh, trigger, yeah? (Smiles as he walks forward once more pushing Nex back) Despair rampant in those eyes of his, and whose fault is that he thinks? Yours. You left him to suffer...you brought the death of your caretaker, ohhh I wouldn’t like you much either after that… just saying…!
Nex : (Lowers his head and growls lowly) Shut up already you snake!
With his roar of anger, Nex pulls his hand back in quick motion emblazoning it in azure energy as he fires a punch right at his foe's chest with a wicked power. A quick pain fills the serpent's senses, and catches him off guard at that close of range. Twin darkened beasts of the crimson azure energy follows contact and punches Akuhei straight back into one of the nearby structures.  
Akuhei : Gah--! 
The groan however, quickly transitions into a snicker as he drops to his feet on the tiled grounds. 
Akuhei: Gh...ahahaa!
Eyes narrowing in caution the rebel whips and pulls back his hand, azure darkness swarming around it.
Nex: Tch... 
Akuhei : Oh...how I was getting bored of you ignoring your strength! It’s so much sweeter to crush you when you’re actually trying…I hope you enjoyed that hit kid--
In a quick motion he whips his hands out and a sigil surrounds the blade of the blade as it pulls itself apart seamlessly. In seconds, Leviathan forms into a chain and hisses opening its sleek metallic mouth and flashing fangs which shimmer in emerald energy. 
Akuhei: (Grins widely as his eyes flash the golden snake irises) Because its the only one you’ll get in!
==Various II: The Hidden Agendas==
Iwatsuchi, Afternoon 
2nd Branch Report Room 
Creaking sounds as a door opens slowly, a young man in his early 20’s in standard NOS uniform with short black but slightly messy hair and indigo eyes steps in the room. His attire wasn't decorative and it signals his lower ranking. 
???: Uh is Lazarith here?
A woman who looks over a holographic record brings it to a close as the person comes in. She also wore a standard uniform, and her long hair is held by a clip in a bun and ponytail that reaches to her feet, a pair of glasses sit on her face. She speaks in a warm voice as she addresses the man's question. 
NOS Official: I’m sorry Lazarith has been in a meeting for a few hours now alongside the other members of the Consuel.
???: Damn… (rubs the back of his head letting off a quick sigh) well, thanks anyway. Do you know when he’ll be back--?
NOS Official: Not exactly no…
Volke: Tell him Volke Larthan needs to talk to him about concerning the events of the city… there’s an illegal group that’s been sighted and I believe it’s attached to the destruction of my own squadron in the Middle levels earlier a few days ago. 
NOS Official: An illegal group?
Volke: I was one of the few survivors of the squad that found a file of boundary related researches going on in Kagutsuchi…we brought it to the middle level at the higher ups request for immediate transfer—but we were assaulted. 
His eyes shut as he vividly recalls the forms of black slithering throughout the grounds as shadows of seithr, infiltrating the sector and destroying everything. The blackened beings kill everyone, with the seithr creeping over the grounds of the sector. 
NOS Official: Oh... you're the ones who were assaulted when the terrorists arrived at the middle level... shortly after that woman Valetha arrived there as well. Wasn't that... caused by Nex and Sylar? 
Volke: No. It wasn't. We weren't even prepared for that kind of attack—those things? They're not terrorists, and this file explains them and what they're after here in Kagutsuchi. 
NOS Official: (confused) I beg your pardon but what squad were you a part of?
Volke sighs looking down to the ground for a moment. 
----
Kagutsuchi, Highest Levels
13th Sector of Residential Areas 
In a clearing a bit away from some residential buildings and establishments, a young women holds her hand out as she aims at the target with a serious expression. Giving a quick breath she releases it with beautiful precision and the dagger plants itself in the eye of her target. 
Her hair is scrunched with waves to each strand, slightly long pulled back with a headband and curly side strands of it lay covering her ears. She stood fairly tall with a slim and confident build, her outfit is lightweight with open tops to her shoes. A belt slung around her waist holding up a pair of Capri, and she wears a deep forest green vest over a shirt leaving part of her stomach exposed while the shirt is decorated with lighter emerald accents. Bright brown eyes flickering to hold back a blink, she lets out her breath and her slim gloved hand throws the weapon once more, this time a tail of magic tether behind it. 
The energy follows through and punches the dagger in deep before it engulfs the target in a vortex of whipping wind but it quickly vanishes and she lets off a deep sigh putting her hands to her side. 
Elis: (thinking to herself)  It's a bit harder to control then I thought it’d be…  (Looks over) I wonder if that man Nex will come through here next…
Suddenly the sounds of marching soles fill her ears, instilling a sense of familiar alertness to her expression.
Elis: The government?!
The soldiers force the working people out of the governmental establishment with a hurry their weapons pointed forth and the cold touch of metal to their bodies if they dared to stop them.
Soldier: Its nothing personal, this area is under warrant for search.
The women comes running up to them angrily and starts demanding to know what's going on. She didn't seem to be frightened of the soldiers presence at all. 
Elis: This is a residential area you can’t do this-- (gestures angrily) what the heck are you even doing throwing people out like this? 
Soldier: There was research going on here that stemmed to the sectors, so we’re confiscating any and all products coming out of these areas. 
Elis: What?
More organized movements go on around them as the soldier addresses her question.
Soldier: In the past there was a scientist who worked alongside others for our government, named Kemozu. That person’s work was strictly confidential in sealed sectors, and is now believed to be the target of reason for these organized terrorist attacks. We will search until we find the remains of it and the Counsel of Order can determine its origins.
Elis: (Looks at the building with a frown) The Consuel is getting involved with this now?
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NOS Official: (Offscreen) This data is highly confidential you realize Captain. 
Volke: I’m aware that’s why I need to speak to Lazarith and the Consuel right away. (Puts his hand on the table and gestures to the chip in her hand) This gives some info to why that girl came shooting up the whole of Kagutsuchi. She’s looking for anything relating to some confidential matter.
The woman looks at the chip and the files from his squad and then sighs turning in her chair. 
Volke: (Frowns cautiously) But the worse of it is that I saw one of our members exit holding a strange container with a core inside.
NOS Official: I-- I beg your pardon? A core?
Volke: A Red Seithr Core. These cores and soul energy is what Zaezel is after. And I feel this is all related to the files and that chip I just handed you.
NOS Official: I see, Captain Larthen, thank you for the report. I’ll inform Lazarith to speak with you.
Volke: Thank you.
NOS Person: If I might though, I’ll take this file to the Counsel myself.
Volke: Of course M’am. I’ll be on my way, thank you for your time. 
He turns and quickly exits the room to leave her be to her work. 
The woman taps a screen on the desk and drags up a contact, quickly making a connection with them. 
NOS Official: Hi I need to have a file looked up on in the SIA’s records, Captain Larthan brought it in from the middle level sector recently attacked by the terrorists and Zaezel. Yes, the Captain of that squad; (pauses and looks over) no he’s not dead he survived the assault—I’m positive sir. I just need to know if this file is real before I pass it to the Consuel. The files and chip...(Typing) give me a minute to decode it with the system sir. 
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Elis: You're just going to throw all these people out of here? 
NOS Soldier: Yes, if that's what it takes. (Looks at her and continues walking) We were ordered to figure out what research was happening in Kagutsuchi a few years ago to recently. 
Blackened shadows whisk by the eyesight, Elis barely catches them and quickly points it out to the soldier.
Elis: What's that shadow? 
Soldier: ...They don't pay us enough to deal with this—ready an Armagus unit!
A blur comes from the side of a building as a blade smashes down on the head of one of the nearby soldiers. Another is blown away by a shot of a concentrated magic dome of energy that bursts upon impact, the soldier aside Elis looks around.
NOS Soldier: It's the Terrorists! 
A gurrgling gasp sounds as the unfortunate soldier's body is severed from a blow to his chest, carved open he plops to the ground with a thud next to Elis who quickly leaves the spot.
The citizens however aren't spared, their cries soon fill the air as they're cut down by the assailants next. The blackened things quickly come next as they target anyone in their way-- a smog of black seithr wafts through the air as it becomes visible due to the sheer concentrated thickness of it. The woman struggles to hold back a cough as she peers through it, her breathing slightly hastens. 
Elis: (To herself as she glances around the seithr fogs) There were people with these things, I saw them...! 
A horrid gash is heard and a younger scream sounds. Elis keens in on it right away and with a motion of speed she draws the pairs of weapons from an armagus sigil and throws one of the small blades at a human sized black object which writhes within the seithr. She uses the whipping cutting winds to tear the seithr being and it exposes a strange red crystal-like shard within its pitch body. 
In front of the being was a terrified child who stood shakily next to the remains of other citizens already being eroded by seithr exposure. 
Elis wastes no time and quickly hurls herself at the thing plunging the weapon in the center-most part of the odd shard where the blackness had lost its thickness thanks to her strike. 
Elis: Go down you nightmare!
The being hisses in horrid pain and the seithr crumbles off its body leaving nothing but a humanoid blackened husk as it falls into pitch ashes. Elis collapses to her knees picking up the odd shard from the things remains, it reflects like a ruby but has a strange texture to it and a scarlet deeper then any other she'd seen. 
Elis: 'Are you alright? 
Child: (sniffling as they shake their head) ...
Elis:'' It'll be okay—I want you to run—Get out of this place before more show up... 
As it shines, the reflection shows the black hand of another being behind her, her eyes widen as she's struck from behind by a appendage blade-like spine from its hand. Agony filling her chest she grips her body with her hands--from a terrible wound spills continuous drops of blood. 
She gasps and falls on her back still holding the shard as the blood leaks on the street. She couldn't see the child's face anymore or that black thing-- her vision becomes fuzzy as the ebony seithr creature worms its way back to the shadows. Eyes failing her as they become engulfed by darkness-- she lays there on the side of a road. 
After a small bit of time-- One of the shadows pops up to a man who stood there with his crimson eyes the only inclination of his true nature. He hid behind a guise of flesh. 
Seithr Being: The flesh researcher’s notes and work isn’t in the area anymore. 
Zaezel: That is disappointing… but not surprising, being from a paranoid bunch of fleshy worms. At least they died without too much hassle.
He begins an incantation and opens up a black sigil spreading from the ground as it raises quietly. 
Zaezel: Break open the gates of hell Norai Stigma—Activate Proto Harvester.
Streams of energy are drawn to him, but he touches the core in his opposite hand and transfers the energy directly to it. As it occurs, its red sheen darkens and the man takes it back in his hand baring a slight frown to his face as pitch begins to infest it from the exposure to the gate. 
Zaezel: Damned fodder of the NOS is never going to be enough for anything except for seithr...and low forms of energy. it needs a strong source of energy…a single soul to be at the core. (scrunches his expression in disgust) But what can one expect from a fleshling. No matter how many worms you collect they’re still just worms in the end.
Seithr Being: Why not use one of the target’s souls for it? They need to die anyway. The Girl with the Beast of Sin, or the man who recently appeared in Kagutsuchi. They’d all be decent sources for energy.
Zaezel: That could work out…Try and hunt one down while I continue harvesting this, And make sure the infiltration to the closed sector is a success.
Seithr Being:(nods) Yes Zaezel. 
Zaezel manipulates the seithr and makes several masses of dark energy, he looks over to several left over bodies and releases the energy. Upon contact they become black stalactites to hang over the sky-- the structures levitate by rings of darkened magic. They grow and impale the bodies already stripped of their soul and hang them over the skies of the area.
Zaezel: (Turns his head up to the sight) We'll find that research... Eventually these fleshly beings will be consumed in seithr, but for now they serve as a strong message to the fools who protect this world. (Looks over with a grin) If only the Destroyer could see this, these are the signs of the boundary's punishment and he shouldn't miss it. (Narrows his eyes) Something must be keeping him... 
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==Miwa I: Troubled Friends==
Iwatsuchi, Ministry 
Dorms 
Yumiko : (Yawns reaching her arms above her head) Oh that was such a good sleep… good morning Miwa. (opens her eyes as her smile vanishes for a moment) Wait, huh? Hey, Miwa, were you sitting in that chair all night long? (rubs her eyes with a finger)
Still sat right in that chair in the lavish room of color-- Miwa had been in deep thought about the events of the previous night. Those objects she saw in the ministry and the person called “Exi” who was with Illia.
Her attention perked by hearing her name called, Miwa lifts her gaze to her and replies, remembering Exi’s request to keep those strange black objects which reacted with her azure a secret.
Their existence alone could cause the war to become even worse, which wasn’t something Miwa wished.
Miwa : More or less…
Yumiko : (Offscreen as Miwa’s eyes wandered) Well you were asleep for a super long time… but still, you look like you have something on your mind. (stretches once more as she giggles) I guess you had a lot of time to think in that chair then.
Miwa : (Quietly) I suppose I did…
Yumiko hops out of the bed and puts on her clothes while speaking to Miwa.
She dresses herself in her light attire of a shirt that had the sleeves stop just above the shoulder with a low neckline, over it she throws a kind of vest which hangs losely and hugs her waist and leaving her belly slightly exposed with some orange accents for flare. The very light shade of oranges compliments the whites of the attire and her fur-- particulalry her tail. A fluffy mass of softness bobs around as she in high spirits dresses herself and readies for the day.
Yumiko: (To herself) I have to keep a good attitude, even if I know we're going to have to go out there into the world. Its going to be such a strange expirience for Miwa too... (Pops her arms as she sighs fixing her medium length hair tucking it along her fuzzy ears) Are you sure you’re okay? You seem a bit concerned about something…
Miwa : (Hesitating) J-just trying to give you your privacy…I mean, I wouldn’t want someone peeking in on me when I was getting dressed. (Thinking) I can’t let her catch on to what happened.
Yumiko : Is that what you’re worried over? Hmm… (Puts a finger to her chin as she looks over her shoulder) I never have thought about that kind of worry of someone seeing me.
Miwa lets off a sigh of relief as the topic seemed to be dropped for now of her adventures last night.
Before Yumiko could slip on her attire a large scar could be seen scored across her light skin, and it quickly is covered up as she reaches behind herself and zips up the back of her uniform over it and places the little metallic ornaments in place on her attire. 
Miwa : (Stammering) W-well, I was always told by my mother that you’re not supposed to let anyone see your body. Well, except the person you love.
She slips on her tight pants next, picking up her slim legs and sliding them in with a hop.
Yumiko : Don’t get me wrong I am a bit cautious about it (pulls up her pants clicking on a belt) but for some reason it doesn’t bother me as much as it probably should. I know you’re not going to harm me so… (tilts her head down as she ties her hair)
Miwa : But your beautiful body is yours alone Yumi, I mean your beautiful tail, your beautiful skin, and you look so beautiful and amazing in your clothes. (Blushing) Oops, did I say that out loud…?
Having been worried about keeping the subject off of what she had been doing last night, she had blurted out the first thing to come to mind, and for her, that was Yumi.
Yumiko : (Straightens out and looks at Miwa, smiling as she gives another chuckle) That’s really kind of you to say.
She then fits her gloves and places her hand on her hip tilting her head slightly as she stares at Miwa.
Yumiko : I think you might be a tad excited over all this though. (Folds her arms looking at her with a slight lean) Also I know that’s not what’s bothering you. (smiles as she straightens once more) But its fine, you don’t have to talk about it.
Miwa : (Sighs, face bright red) T-thank you, and to be fair, my life has been nothing but excitement lately.
Yumiko : I know right? From waking up from a cryogenic pod, to the training with Lazarith, and now we’re about to go out into… (rubs her head as she has a sweatdrop come down and her laugh transitions into a nervous one) well a lot of danger…
Miwa : (still blushing, pressing fingers together) But I have you to protect me…
Yumiko : (Nods with a smile) You sure do, that’s a promise. We’re going to stick together through this, and you’ll be just fine. (to herself) I hope… (Outloud) Just try not to let anything get to you too much.
Miwa : I’ll try…
Yumiko : I know this world might be a bit new, and even a bit frightening, you don’t know it after all. But I’ll do everything I can to try and help you. Besides, like I said, I’ve always wanted to do more… I feel like there's things I need to do and sitting around isn’t helping it.
She pauses as she looks down.
Yumiko : (Rubs her shoulder as she sighs) But by myself it was so much harder to get the motivation or courage to get going, especially with the way the world is… (Smiles softly) Hopefully with someone else with me, I’ll become a bit more confident about it all.
Miwa : (Nervous) I don’t know about confidence, but I’ll definitely support you with everything I have!
Yumiko : (pumps her hand to her side) That’s the spirit. (Ears twitch as she glances to the doorway) Huh?
A subtle knock comes on the door and the two look over in slight confusion. Yumiko walks over to the entrance taking the knob, keeping her perplexed look and giving a pull. As it slides open a young man with short flat but slightly messy black hair stood on the other side who was dressed in uniform stood proper.
Yumiko : Hel—o?
??? : -- Yumiko?
Yumiko : Volke?
There seemed to be an odd pause as the two have a spark of recognition ignite in their eyes. In a flash, Yumiko moves the young man into the room and quickly shut the door behind them.
Volke : --Hold on a moment!
Yumiko : (Looks at him as he blinks in slight surprise') Volke, what’re you doing here? I haven’t seen you since the military academy with Myri, Reiga and Myst-- (shakes her head in act of correction) 'I mean the Lieutenant and Lieutenant Colonel-- did you finish your years?' 
Volke : I…(fixes his stance and lets off a breath) wasn’t expecting to meet you here to be honest. ...No… I never finished. I was pulled from it.
Yumiko : You were pulled from the Academy?
Volke : Yes, but that can come later-- (notices Miwa in the room and blinks) … I’m sorry, is she new…?
Yumiko : (Glances back at Miwa) Miwa is a friend of mine Volke, Lazarith said she could be here with me.
Miwa : (Nervously waves) Um, hi…
Volke : Oh, okay, hello then. I’m a, friend, I guess—of hers from years ago. Long story where I’ve been, but like I said it can wait until later. Who is she…?
Yumiko : Um...she’s a person who… ugh. (looks up and rubs her head) Can you keep a secret Volke?
Volke : A secret…? I’m--
Yumiko : She’s been asleep in like frozen, cryogenic sleep, and I was sent to get her by the orders of the higher ups since everyone else was deployed in the area… and Nex was about to destroy the pod thinking it was something else and now she’s here because I got her out.
Volke : (Blinks) Frozen—higher ups—and Nex? Whoa uh, what?
Miwa : Kinda...crazy, huh? (Nervously laughs)
Volke: ...I’m not sure if I’m more surprised by the fact you said that all in near one breath at that speed or the story itself. I don’t even know if it all registered…
Yumiko : That’s okay, because I’ve been a good friend and gotten it off my chest. Now I don’t have to worry about it anymore. (Sighs) Its really hard to keep secrets.
The young man shifts slightly as he sighs in something of unease. 
Volke: (Glances to the side) ...Yeah secrets, Yumiko--
Yumiko: But,that’s her story, she’s going to stay with me because I don’t want the higher ups like the General knowing she’s around.
Volke : (eyes glance to the side) Don’t really blame you for that action… (looks back at Miwa) So you said she was frozen in cryogenic sleep?
Yumiko : Yep.
Volke : … (To Miwa) How long ago do you remember that being?
Miwa : (Stammering) S-somewhere around 200 years?
Volke’s eyes seem to reflect him being deep in thought hearing that response.
Volke : …(mutters as he then sighs) That was before the Third War…(speaks normally) and I would imagine you don’t remember much of anything before that point?
Miwa : I remember some things.
Volke : Like what?
Yumiko : Well… she told me a little, I don’t know if she’s comfortable with me saying it. Her past with that girl and the woman from a certain group aiding the NOS in research on the boundary—and who helped her learn about herself…
Miwa seems to frown a bit, she was hazy on it all but she did tell Yumiko a little about it of what she could scrounge from her memory.
Miwa : Does he really need to know about all of that?
Yumiko: Not if you’re not comfortable with it no, (looks at him) you understand don’t you Volke? We’re trying to be a bit careful about all this. 
Volke : Its fine, I don’t need to know about that. But still be careful of what you say outside, it sounds like she’s seen a bit more than most have.
Yumiko : No problem, I wouldn’t speak of it without her permission. (looks back at him and gestures) What about you, what’ve you been up to all these years?
Volke : … I’ve been trying to get my head on straight to be quite honest. After all these ordeals, Lazarith is one of the few people who I can still trust with where I’m at now—along with you and the others. I tried to find him but he's out right now. 
Yumiko : (Confused as she gives him a look) Did you think we weren’t going to trust you for some reason?
Volke : I don’t know what to think right now Yumiko...I’ve changed, a lot. But, the reason I got withdrawn from the Military Academy is because I was initiated someplace else due to my family’s records with them.
Yumiko : Your family…? Now that I think about it, you never did talk much about that.
Volke : (Closes his eyes) And I still don’t want to talk about it.
Yumiko : I wasn’t trying to pry…
Yumiko notices that a certain look in Volke’s eyes appears, a stare that had seen more then most.
While he was always a bit more serious and devoted to whatever he believed in-- nothing but a pure stern concern is reflected in his gaze and tone which pierces Yumiko.
Volke : (Sighs as he shifts the subject) Yumiko, keep that girl safe. I mean it, she’s important. You are completely correct in your instinct to keep her away from the higher ups. (Folds his arms lightly before he shifts)
Yumiko : I will, but, Volke, the way you’re talking is scaring me… where is this coming from? Do you know something?
Volke : I do but I, I can’t exactly say anything at the moment. (Closes his eyes) I hope you can forgive me for that, but I value our friendship so I’ll say this: Don’t stay here. Its only a matter of time before the SIA catches onto what’s going on here with her being alive and with you.
Miwa gets suspicious of the man.
Miwa : Are you threatening us? I swear that if you touch a hair on Yumiko’s tail…
Yumiko : Miwa, its okay, I trust him—he wouldn’t harm us. He’s a friend, I just (folds her arms and sighs exasperated) … am very confused.
Volke : What? No, no its a warning, (holds his head as he sighs) I don’t have a reason to lie here. If you don’t trust me that’s fine, but at least listen to what I have to say. That’s partially why I’m here to talk to Minister Lazarith. Reiga, Myri, Mysteria they’re all in danger from what’s going on.
Yumiko : Volke, I don’t understand… (tilts her head in frustration confusion) what are you talking about? I thought the war was being handled.
Volke : (Shakes his head and gestures with a hand) Forget the war Yumiko. (gains a stern look) There are beings out there capable of immense destruction, the city isn’t suffering from a regular terrorist attack at all. They're after something in Kagutsuchi—those things are walking death, and one of them is in the city right now… (eyes glint with sorrow as he sighs) they annihilated my group…
Yumiko : … (to himself) Volke what the heck have you been doing? (To herself with a troubled expression) I wish I knew more, he's being so secretive. His words are genuine but...
Volke: I'd say more if I could. 
Yumiko : (To herself) Telling us all this can’t be putting him in a good position.
Volke : I don’t know what the Marshal and General are thinking, sending the Lieutenant and Lieutenant Colonel out there amiss that… but Myri herself is in danger. And Lazarith knows, he’s going to leave I know he is. And when he does… you two have to go, if you don’t the SIA will find you. And when the General himself knows, that’s not going to be good.
While Miwa still wasn’t completely sure, a run in with that man known as the “General” of the NOS wasn’t an occurrence any part of her wished to have.
Miwa : I don’t want to meet that scary man again…
Yumiko’s eyes shine with a determination upon hearing the situation, and she shakes her head before speaking her resolve.
Yumiko : Then that’s that. I won’t stand here while my friends are in danger… and I’ll keep Miwa away from Akuhei. (Looks at Miwa) Miwa, we’re going right?
Miwa : (Determined) Yeah!
Yumiko : (Offscreen as Miwa smiles with her) Right, that’s the spirit we need to succeed!
Volke : (Sweatdrops as he thinks to himself with a smile) Those two are quite the pair...I haven’t seen Yumiko this spunky and excited for a while. Miwa seems to be something of a source of joy, even I feel it.
Yumiko smiles at her response and turns back to Volke with a confident smirk of enthusiasm.
Volke : Those things are still around Yumiko, be careful with Miwa out there.
Yumiko : We’ll be careful, and hey Volke (Volke looks at her), be careful yourself will you? (flashes him a look) I’m expecting a full explanation of this eventually…
Volke : (Sighs as he then slightly laughs) You haven’t changed at all, I’ll be sure to get all my words down for you when I can.
Yumiko: One more thing Volke-- (takes a drive out from her pocket) can you decode what's on here? I found it while I was at the sector we rescued Miwa from. 
Volke: Huh? (Takes the drive and looks at it) I can certainly attempt to... 
Yumiko: Thanks, you're a real friend! (Smiles and then goes to the door with quickened steps) 
A determined Miwa gets herself off the chair to follow Yumiko who steps out the doorway with good spirited steps against the tiled floor, her tail bobbing each time in rhythmic fashion.
Volke watches them from the doorway against the wall looking to see the embellished and bright halls, and Yumiko’s march suddenly stops.
Yumiko : Uh…(nervously chuckles as she looks to the right) hey Volke, which way was the transport?
Volke : (Sighs and points with his finger to the east) Down the east halls of the ministry into the cathedral’s center and by the large--
Yumiko : Got it!
Miwa : Thanks for the help!
Volke : (Sighs again shaking his head as he begins walking) I wonder how much of that attitude is actually real though, people have to keep a strong resolve in this world it seems like—even if they’re suffering.
----
==Sylar II: Red Harvests of Chaos==
A lone Sylar moves without concern through the streets of the area that tasted chaos. With his claws planted into his pockets and one left out over the metallic body of Apollexon, his soles hit the grounds fresh with flakes of concentrated seithr.
A void of a unease grips this place like a stigma with the uncomfortable airs created by the presences of nightmares. Ghastly looks from people above him upon blackened stalagtites, suddenly he's greeted by a vicious streak of metal that fills his sight. 
The demon quickly steps back and evades. 
Sylar: You're not a Hellspawn...
???: And you're not of the human government. Still--
A vibration resonates through the body of Apollexon as the head of a blade of emerald seithr strikes it and kicks up green rocks of the material. The owner stood there with wolf eyes of hazel and his arms covered in black fur and muscle with bracers of metals gripping them up to his shoulders where a wolf's head sits carved in his armor.
His dark green hair whips like a tail, and a feather stood out behind one of his ears on the headpiece he wore covering one side of his face while he kept a glare to the Demon. 
Zerde: I didn't know a Demon would concern themselves over the affairs of man. 
Sylar: You're the one I saw outside of the pub.
A cry resonates as they untangle their weapons with a quick, and fluent sideways motion. The demon's snow white irises travel to the edge of his weapon's sharp, curved head which glistens from fresh blood, and a scowl comes over his expression.
Sylar: (Glances at his eyes sharply) I don't really, but, were you coordinating this attack?
Zerde: It doesn't really matter does it? Was given a job and now we're going through with it. It's no different then making sure the barrier was down so that Zaezel could pass through in the 5th Area of man's city. 
Sylar: You're a hired gun then? (moves his eyes over his weapon and then the beastkin) With a weapon from the blackmarket...and that appearance—eyes as vicious as a wolf itself. Surprised you're not going after Nex or myself. 
Zerde: I might on my own choice but, (Turns and looks over the area as his ears twitch) explicit orders not to go after you or him by our contractor. 
Sylar: Why--?
Zerde: (Looks at him with indifference) Why don't you ask when you get the chance? The information we were sent to retrieve from the man who worked with man's government isn't here anymore.  
Sylar: Info? And who the hell is your contractor? Working alongside Zaezel?
Zerde: We work alongside whoever we see fit... and all I care about is bringing mankind its punishment. By taking their government apart piece by piece. But the one we were looking for who had the research notes from the 0th Rune City Ishana we were after, scurried away at the news we came—not too unlike mice. 
The Wolf Beastkin walks away from Sylar, and the White Demon's eyes narrow in thought as he looks at one of the nearby corpses. 
Sylar: (To himself) Something dangerous enough to set off the attention of the government, and these illegal forces are after it too huh? 
----
Komyo: Ah! Serza, that's…what happened to them?! Those poor people! 
As Komyo and Serza spot the horrendous sight Zaezel created, Komyo turns her head and can't help but burry it in her uniforms sleeves with a small mutter of fear. 
Serza: Well isn’t that just a lovely statement… (Glances up to it as he puts his hand on his hat) Zaezel is quite the brutish sort. A fine example of what the boundary can do to a mind—though I suppose that’s rather hypocritical to my own past.
The official gives a tap to his hat before he and Komyo continue walking through the streets. Komyo trys to ignore the scene while the slightly amused Serza looks around. 
Serza: I wonder what these fine gentlemen were after... possibly the old research stemming from Ishana the NOS knew of.  
Komyo: Ishana--? (Looks at him with a unsure frown) 
Serza: A city of Magic where the Magisters and Saints have come and come again in different forms with their studies on the Boundary and Azure, powers of creation and destruction. I believe its operations were moved to Izanagi after the incidents caused Ishana to become restricted near some 200 years ago...
Komyo: Azure... (blinks) Why was Ishana restricted though? 
Serza: Oh believe me, the Magisters of the city and their agencies were both good and evil. The power of the boundary and the gates to lead to it... it can lead a mind to do terrible things. Ishana could be called the root of mankinds sin depending on how you look at things. But, thankfully... the agencies are gone now. Doesn't mean their researches and discoveries aren't already etched in however. 
Sylar: (Offscreen) Don't you just seem to know everything, then again you were the partner of the Underworld Worm. 
Serza: Well now, if it isn’t the White Demon. As friendly as ever just like your comrade in destruction. (Smiles slightly looking to him) I haven’t seen you in awhile. I was beginning to think your appearance was nothing more than the rambling of the manic, a story from frightened minds. 
Sylar walks forward from the path and then stops in front of the man. 
Sylar: Oh I'm here, in the flesh. (Lowers his head with a strong scowl) And what was that you were talking about, those illegal forces being here for Ishana's research on the gates?
Serza: Nothing... (closes his eyes) merely rummaging through my recollections of the SIA's info to my advantage to help piece together this little mess—no one else can seem to. 
Sylar: The SIA's info...you're not with em anymore--? I don't buy it, Infernal Viper. 
Komyo: (To herself) Does he not remember me? And after all we did in Kanayama…he might not recognize me though with this uniform... 
Serza: (Sighs with dejection while he continues moving) Please don’t call me that anymore its very unfitting—I’m the Jade Serpent now.
Sylar: (raises his brow in confusion) Jade Serpent?
Serza: My LSZ Codename. They were quite interested in having the former partner of the infamous Akuhei on their side. Besides I need them to help me with something and I don’t exactly care for the NOS.
Sylar: You snake!
Sylar's weapon stops itself at his back and generates a spearhead of seithr, Serza feels the touch of it against his back and sighs once more. 
Sylar: Did you join those jackasses in the 51st Sector?
Serza: Oh for goodness sake shut up and calm down! Of course not you moron of a demon—why would I wish to work with them? After all the trouble in Kanayama, fighting really isn’t my deal anymore Sylar.
Sylar: (Unamused) That a fucking joke? ‘Cause it ain’t funny.
Serza: I'm sorry I wasn't trying to be... 
Sylar: You stabbed me in the back with that damned emerald blade of yours and I lost all recollection of what happened in there. Next thing I know Nex and the others remove some damn green shard from my body.
Serza: By the snarl in your tone are you asking for retribution, White Demon?
Sylar: No, but I want some answers to what it did.
Serza: I confess back then I might of had something to do with that—but now isn’t the best time or place to discuss it.
Sylar: I suggest you make a time then you damned partner of that snake in the grass. (In tone of warning as his claw clenches and sparks with energy) Unless you’d rather Apollexon beat it out of you.
Serza: Mm...how violent of you. (Unfazed, he looks to Sylar's eyes and gives a frown) If your little friend Azure 0 couldn't stand to me in the past, there isn't any chance you could.
Sylar: What was that?
Sylar's expression contorts at the words, his sharp teeth grind as he steps closer and Serza merely turns around and brushes Apollexon off. 
Serza: I mean lets face it, you don't even know how to use Apollexon's power. 
Sylar: I know how to use it you dick, lets go right now and I'll happily show you. (Brings his claw up and clenches it in front of him) 
Komyo: Wait stop--!
Serza keeps his eyes turned to the demon while having his fingers brush the brim, he seemed to be debating on taking Sylar's challenge. His sword Ophius, howls to be brought out as Serza's hand reaches to its hilt.
Serza: (To himself) Do I really want to though--? Taking him down here would just result in him being taken by the 51st Sector. I'm not exactly chummy with them, besides the demon still has potential to find for himself...
Having enough of watching the events, a saddened Komyo inserts herself between the two and Sylar's eyes narrow. He goes past the LSZ's uniform on her which blocked his recollection, and looks at her radiant eyes for a moment as well as her hair pulled up in a headband. 
Komyo: Kanayama was the past, Serza is trying to change…! 
Sylar: You're that girl we met aren't you? (Turns his attention back to Serza with a frown of dissonance) ...And, this man is your superior--? Tch, what bullshit is this...he isn’t much better than your ‘former superior’. Or did you forget him? 
Serza: Oh (frowns as his eyes dart to the side) that’s not very nice to compare me to such a lunatic…I'm her superior because I'm the strongest available to protect her. I need to get her to Nex.
Sylar: ...Nex? Why? 
Komyo looks down for a moment as her hair comes over her face before she looks at the Demon. 
Komyo: I have a feeling I can do something to help him. (Sighs uncertain and without confidence) I don't know what that is, but... I need to try. Try and remember what--
Serza: (Looks to her for a moment and taps her shoulder) Now, now Komyo this is our enemy remember? Lets not be spouting information to him--(Offscreen as Sylar watches Serza begin to pull away) however it would seem this harvest is drawing to a close, Zaezel must have gotten the souls he needed. (To himself) But they didn't get the info they were looking for. 
Sylar: What the--? Soul energy… that isn't Nex doing that…? 
Serza: No, Zaezel has the proto harvester... so he's gathering souls. He's after something from the Third War, Demon, so I suggest you and Nex get moving to stop him unless you want to see what comes from the depths of a red abyss no one is ready to see. Do endeavor not to step in front of me again or I may not be able to ignore my orders a second time. 
Sylar: (Tilts his head down slightly to the side with a troubled frown) Why the hell tell me that information? 
Serza: My orders are to stop you and Nex. I've clearly, been avoiding those orders, so pretend we never saw each other m'kay? (Looks to Komyo and motions her to follow) Come on Komyo we should find Nex. 
Komyo: Right... (Looks at Sylar and then follows Serza) Bye Sylar, if you see Nex tell him I want to talk to him okay? 
Sylar's claw reaches to the top of his weapon as he leans against its lean body. Confusion plague his mind as much as rough as the winds pull the ends of his midnight coat as he once again is alone walking. 
The demon's sharp eyes stare through the strands of his black hair, his mind lost in the recesses of thought. 
Sylar: (To himself) ...I'm so fuckin' lost... Serza is helping LSZ but denying the orders to stop us? I can't ever read that guy. What does that girl have to do with Nex though? 
From the corner of his demonic irises, Sylar notices the shadowed slender form of a woman who stood there looking at a building which was now destroyed from the earlier events. Rather it had been for at least a period of time. A mantra of words comes from a female in a chilling tone of psychopathy.  
???: The Red. The RED. THE RED~! More maggots die because of the RED in that Boundary! This man knew this man KNEW about it! That was why the Illegal forces were here after it!! Oh... Who... Who was he? And why does it resonate that memory of the boundary? Why does it drag that back out?
With caution in his steps, Sylar approaches the estranged woman by the building. Her frayed, long scarlet hair glimmers, strands are dragged out of place by her hand which digs on her scalp. Her cold eyes completely focused on the remains as she stands, simply staring in a haunting manner with a smile of bitter joy and pain all at once. 
Sylar: ...Aren't you that chick who was trying to get Nex to help you destroy? Why are you acting like...(notices her estranged behavior) that?
Valetha: (Turns her head to him as her eyes widen pulling her hand to him) White—White Demon. Its... impossible to explain. (Looks back at the building)  A memory came, that proved it was real! It happened when I got here at this place, the place that scientist those people are looking for and I--(Snaps her attention back to him with a smile) 
Sylar: ...Uh why are you looking at me like that?  
Valetha: (Quietly as Sylar's eyes flash a bit of unease) Would you call me crazy... if I told you, that I knew why these little maggots were squished beneath the boot of the illegal force and the big bad government? All over...The Red?
Sylar: ...The Red?
Valetha: (Gestures as she throws her hands out with a laugh) Yes, The Red in the boundary! (Throws her hands down and shakes her head) Demon... do you want to know a secret? You're Nex's ally... so I can trust you (comes up to him and looks at his eyes with a cold joy) right? 
----
==Nex/Akuhei II: A Scarlet Cost too High==
The Rebel leaps away from the ground as Leviathan springs from underneath his feet causing the tile to moan with a creaking noise until it breaks to pieces by the forceful lunge of the chain. Metal glints as the snake's head misses Nex-- but only by a margin when he rolls backwards. 
Weights of venomous tension grip the air around them as Nex tries to focus on his foe. 
Akuhei: Waiting for an invitation? You didn't seem to when little blue needed you! You didn't even bother!
His words dripping with malicious glee, he shoots his hand sideways and Leviathan lunges with a loud hiss as it opens its jaw with a metallic pop and snaps down on the edge of Nex’s blade which comes to strike.
Akuhei: But hey I'm not complaining...(Shrugs with his free hand tilting his head to the side) made it easier for us.
Necros sways and shakes as a grunting Nex struggles to keep the clashing fangs of the Exitium back, and between his teeth he scornfully responds. 
Nex: Shut the hell up, I couldn't do anything to stop it—you know that!
Akuhei: I never mentioned you could do jackshit... That's the hilarity in it all!
Leviathan is deflected with a high pitched wail—A conflict of hatred and malice courses with its devastating vibes putting pressure into the very air around everyone. Akuhei spots a certain resolve in his hateful eyes, and seals the outcome of the conflict in his mind in that moment with a sigh of evident dejection and boredom.
Akuhei : Ah… you’re still not willing to play fully are you? Talk about a buzzkill... let's see you squirm for a single hit.
He hisses in confidence as in a blur of shadowy veils whips around him. 
A focused Nex doesn't care, and rushes forward into a rageful upper-cut of his sword. It howls with power, but his opponent seems unfazed. Akuhei's grin creeps further along his expression as he worms away before something emerald pushes the sword's edge--a makeshift dagger cuts across with a disorienting blow to stagger Nex. 
Akuhei: (Looks at him, noticing something-- and spins the dagger in amusement before it vanishes) Oh... so that was the hardest part. Damn, how I wish I could of seen how it affected you. That was probably the closest you came to despair.
Nex sneers in cold anger. 
Akuhei: The point at your pathetic struggle of a life you have to decide: "Do I let Siegfried suffer and leave him with my enemy to decide his fate... or do I try to save him and let myself suffer in the process?"
His eyes widen for a moment as Nex recalls a conversation he had several years ago when he learned of the attack. 
Nex: (Memory) I have to go back…
Legna: (Memory) You can’t.
Nex: I have to go back! If I can stop it this time I--
Legna: Nex. Whose fate is more important? Ask yourself that question, yes the truth may be difficult… but you have to choose. This road without your friend you can handle, you take that road to save him, it’ll crush you.
Nex isn’t able to catch his next movement, as a splitting pain cracks across his head when the edge of Akuhei’s foot smashes down on his skull, bouncing him off of the ground before Akuhei flips back over and swings his opposite leg into a kick to Nex’s gut. 
Bent forward Nex lets off a cry as he goes tumbling across the broken tile with a groan and lays on his back for a moment as Akuhei lands on the ground adjusting himself.
Nex: Augh!!
Nex: (Memory) I don’t care, I have the Azure! I can do something! I’m not losing him, I already lost Imyo! I already lost so god damn much I--
Legna: (Memory) Akuhei will never let you save him, he won’t allow it. He’ll end his life in front of your eyes and you know that. You can’t keep all your promises Nex. Just as you can’t save everyone. You’ll destroy yourself trying…and that’s what they’re counting on.
Nex: Kh. I... couldn't do anything.
Akuhei: Oh I don't know...(taps his finger to his head) You have the power of the Azure after all. If its the power capable of ending this god damn joke-- (shrugs outward and gestures) couldn't it of saved him?
Nex: Even if I helped him, I wouldn't of been able to protect him from you bastards at the time. My Azure doesn't create miracles... it brings destruction to the world.
Akuhei: Oh so you understand that by this point? Good! And, knowing that inevitable fact, you chose yourself. Convinced yourself that he died, and moved on pretending not to care, (Smiles wickedly) because if you didn't you'd never fucking forgive yourself for leaving behind the one person who could have been your greatest ally!
Snickers from Akuhei break into a agitating, yet sinister laugh as he approaches once more-- the chain gyrates back into readied position. 
Nex groans in both pain and anger when he comes back up to his feet from his knee, and he tries to hit him with a punch from his free hand when the serpent general comes over.
No contact.
Akuhei catches the attempt in his own grip and looks at him with a sneer hidden behind his smile. 
Akuhei: Nonono, you don't decide when I'm done. You're gonna swallow the truth and like it you little bastard. You made the hard choice and gave up the possibility... so you could keep fighting. Because why Nex huh? Not because you want to because you HAVE to. And you HATE it!
Nex: God damn you! I will kill you I fuckin' swear it!
Nex’s sharp and angered stare refocuses onto Akuhei before he launches himself with fury bright in his eyes.
A large black claw-- weapon of Nex’s concentrated hate, tries to snare Akuhei in a flash of diagonal crimson but it tears only air as Akuhei jumps away landing on one of the nearby pillars. Nex turns his attention just as fast to it and strikes through the pillar with the full force of his sword’s sharp edge blazing with black energy causing it to crumble when the bottom is broken to pieces by his rage. 
The rumbling and echo of the crash quiets, Nex doesn't see any sign of his foe around and glances around, the voice of the serpent sounds and he grinds his teeth with a huff of frusteration whipping his head over to him. 
Akuhei stood casually, hands in his pockets while he laughs on a higher level led up by the small stairwell, Nex's burning eyes set themselves on him from bellow.
Akuhei : Kihihaahaha! Ooooh so close! Just a dangerous lil’ beast aren’t you? (tilts his head down to look at him with a wicked stare) You can't 'kill' me with weak shit like that, why don't you just fucking use it already? You. Are. BORING me!
His tone drops to a sinister level but he spoke with a smile that makes Nex grit his teeth in frustration. Hands pressed outward and skeletal fingers moving rhythmically as he grabs darkness, Akuhei then motions forward firing two chains straight down at a defending Nex. 
Akuhei : Serpent Pierce!
Just as Nex raises his sword to stop them, they sharply change course and head at Myri.
Akuhei : (Sarcastically as he smiles) Oops, sorry, my hand must’ve slipped.
Eyes widening, as he hears that sardonic remark Nex lunges forward, feet kicking the tile as fast as possible as he slides to place himself between the strike. A second later he lets off a high pitched wail as the chain tears into his back with a wet crunch.
Nex: Augh!
Akuhei : Nightmare Crescent Fang…!
The chain reverts to a blade as Levaithan’s edge becomes an arc of venomous darkness as it crashes down on Nex’s blade, his jacket whips from the pressure. 
Akuhei : Quick to the draw aren’tcha…(points to Myri with his free hand) and what about that sweet innocent bitch sleeping behind you hmm? Holds more secrets then I care for. But I believe… she might hold key to your success or ruin based on what I’ve gathered.
Kiryos : (To himself as he clenches his fists) If I were him, I wouldn’t call her that. She deserves a more suitable epithet.
Nex: (Eyes narrow as he holds his ground against the blade) …?
Akuhei: Don’t think I haven’t noticed. (Snickers as they stare) Why oh why is the Destroyer suddenly protecting and helping her hmm? You never cared before. Heheh… what’d the vampire tell you huh? Something special about her this time? She’s always been a threat to you, but being able to alter your outcome and interfere on that level—that’s… something new.
Nex: I honestly don’t know how she’s doin’ it.
Akuhei: Hmm...you took a hit for her—you gonna protect her this time? Are ya? Do you care? Tell me. 
Nex: ...Gah. (slides his foot back as he lifts his sword) Why don't you just not worry about it you prick... You don’t need to know everything behind my intentions. 
Akuhei : I could say the same to you, kid.
Nex shoots a glare of hate, keeping his stance firm for a second more as they stare each other down, Nex keeping the blade away from the sleeping Myri with everything he had. They exchange blow for blow in a chorus of clashes-- but Nex struggles to keep up as he feels the pressure of each blow threatening to knock him back.
The energy behind Akuhei’s blows were unreal.
With a groan of disdain, Nex reluctantly realizes he needed his Azure’s full strength, and opens the shells atop his hands to prepare to unleash it. 
Nex : (To himself) No choice then…its the only way I can keep him from harming her. 
When the glow of his azure breaks forth, Akuhei’s snakeish grin takes a devilish twist.
Akuhei : Haaahahaa! You're still WEAK!
His laugh cuts through his concentration as the man suddenly breaks through in a veil of emerald seithr, almost glidding and then plunges his blade to Nex's hand that had the shell opening to release the Azure's power and the Grimoire. 
Nex: (To himself) Wha--?!
He pulls his hand away with a wail, and Akuhei walks intently and swings his blade in an underhand slash which knocks Necros out of Nex’s grip who falls back a few steps. His eyes wide as the flash of his sword flying out of his hand and he's left with cold realization he had no defense left. 
A heavy blade’s tip strikes the tile with a loud crack, staying there as the silver haired man feels a burning pain rend through. 
Akuhei: (Venomously) You LOSE…
A malevolant and smiling Akuhei  launches Nex with a fluid upward scooping swing of Leviathan carrying a serpent with it which coils up taking Nex with it in its jaw, Akuhei then launches him flipping backwards higher as he twists into a kick to his chest before laughing.
Flung through the air Nex's vision a mess of colors and shapes, he manages to focus in on the glint of fangs which rip through his chest. It punches him back with momentum and the force of unreal pain, pinning him to the wall bellow one of the NOS symbols on it. 
Something was extremely wet in his chest now, the spearhead lodged inside while his feet dangle over the ground several feet below. Akuhei looks up with his sick smile and a sensation of agony strikes Nex as the small blades of the chain’s body slide forth and impale him in a circular formation while he screams in pain when the blades dig into his waist, stomach, and ribs. The corrosion of the Exitium weakens his body almost instantly. 
Nex : Ga-- (Wrenches his head as he struggles) AAaaugh!
Akuhei : (Laughs) Want some help down...? 
A small dark green energy twines around the chain before it manifests into a serpent travels along the chain in a worming motion and then snaps down its jaw on a pinned Nex injecting him with a painful corrosive energy once before it bursts. 
Leviathan then vanishes, Nex's body simply falls off the wall with a weak groan escaping his lungs as he crashes to the cold ground on his side. slowly and painfully he heaves breath with a trench in his body.
The shattered shards of the wall from his impact collapse around him, scattered in concrete dust and blood spatter.
Akuhei’s then stands there before a crushed and defeated Nex, as he swings out Leviathan into a chain and shakes his head while it twines.
Nex : G...gaugh (lifts his head) …god dammit… 
Akuhei : You still have weaknesses kiddo. (smiles as he walks over to him) And as long as you do I'll always exploit them.
Nex's vision is blurry, he feels immense pain as something crushes him harder into the ground. He couldn’t get up as the pressure builds up in his body and he coughs out blood.
Nex: (To himself) I lost. He interrupted my incantation. I waited too long... hesitated and the cost was too high... I protected her… but that doesn’t matter now...
Akuhei : (looks at him holding him on the ground with his foot) Heheheh... told you you’d only get one hit in.
==Siegfried II: Igneus==
The building behind him stood like a fortress of steel and reinforced walls, but with the attacks going on a single well coordinated strike could take a place like this down completely.
It sat on an incline surrounded by steep cliffs and man-made levels, even with its impressive structure it needed a man to guard it. 
Slumped up against its metal face with a frown of disinterest and thought all at once, Siegfried is it's lone symbol of guardianship in the area awaiting for any to come by. 
Any that passed here would be razed, not because he chose it, and not because he cared, because he didn’t. Instead he was here, because it was his momentary purpose like clockwork-- given to him by another.
A burning wound sits gouged into his collarbone, and the tips of his fingers brush it underneath the fabrics of his blue shirt with a slight grimace.  Provoking words of his superior still ring like a bell in his mind bringing a sense of disdain to his expression. 
Siegfried: (To himself) Those words... they're still bothersome. 
“Soul Limiter Released”.
It sounded like an ignition to something, but Siegfried couldn’t quite figure out what. Kicking the ground in boredom as the metal clacks against his toe, he growls softly in frustration.
Siegfried: (To himself) Ugh… what the hell does that even mean? Is it just random nonsense, that's supposed to make me over think things? Or, was it designed to pacify my need for answers, or just to make me sit here bored out of my mind...
It was certainly possible that the snake just said it to send a galaxy of unnerving thought into him, implanting it like a seed.
Not a single gust passed through despite the high elevation. The place was enclosed around him like a cave only cold metal faces to greet him and a ceiling stretching high into the overcast dreary and prosaic day. 
Siegfried: (To himself glancing around with his green eyes) Personal questions can come later...
He swears he sees shadows slink and squirm about, but he brushes it off as a mere trick of his own eyes and continues to brood in his seclusion, until a slight breeze that’s chilled races by, lifting his hair and crimson colored tattered cloth cloak.
Siegfried: Tch... its pointless trying to sneak up on a veteran such a me! Fenrir's wrath! (Quickly unsheathes his weapon)
He charges the blade without even a second thought or hesitation, to unleash three rapid waves of fiery slashes that combine in a darker shade of azure blue light and form a gigantic wolf's head. The wolf like manifestation lunges forward snapping its maw at the shadowy figure.
It snaps down with a crushing force and the heat of novas packed within its makeshift fangs. As its form vanishes, Siegfried's eyes are slightly wide in awe as he watches the deep blue embers dance, but this brief sense of surprise quickly flickers.
Siegfried: (To himself with a slight grin) I've gotten stronger. It isn't surprising, but it's about damn time.  
The smirk plasters to his expression widening as he pulls the blade back to tilt it, and stare at its strong edge. Azure flames gyrating around its face while its bearer wore that satisfied expression. 
Siegfried: (To himself) Wow... this is just... Ettard is finally accepting me as its owner. If I recall correctly, that old man Kiel said my father utilized this weapon far better than I had. So does this mean i'm finally starting to grow in power?
His grin takes a somewhat devilish twist as he feels the power racing through his blade. He liked it, no he loved it. With his eyes growing smaller and the smirk wide, he looks out to the shadows that keep their distance. Slowly he lets of a huff of amusement, which turns into an odd, manic, and cracking laugh. 
Siegfried: (Outloud drawing his head back over his shoulders) Heh... Hyahahahahahaha! (Thrusts his weapon forward keeping the smile) Take a good look you bastards, this weapon of mine will kill each and everyone one of you! 
He pulls it back with a swift motion spinning it as he glances down its edge, and keeps his smirk. 
Siegfried: (Confidently) Its name is Ett- (Pauses and shakes his head before continuing) ...No, no, no... that name isn't fitting at all, so how about a better name, eh? I think... Phantasmis: Igneus Gladius or Igneus for short sounds perfect, no? (Smirks the blade itself shimmered in response as if acknowledging its new name)
The sword, now named Igneus, gleams in the dull lighting as Siegfried’s face gradually returns to normal. He had a sense of enthrallment pass through him just then, he couldn’t explain it but it felt good, made his sides hurt slightly-- made him want to laugh.
But the moment had passed and he stares down the being that barely escaped the blow, half of its form charred like a paper set aflame-- its body cracking before it retreats into the seithr once more.
Seithr Being: There isn’t supposed to be anyone here...
Seithr Being 2: ...That flesh has power with azure, destructive at that. Getting the cores is impossible like this…
The warped, distorted “voice” sounds from the deepening shadows as it keeps a firm stare on the man who held the blade with a look full of confidence.
Siegfried: Interesting... you can tell that just from being struck by it? (Shrugs with a self-concieted grin) Well no matter, you're not getting past me, so just give up and run or better yet... stay and fight!
Seithr Being: I don’t remember being informed of someone who could use Azure standing guard here.
Seithr Being 2: Doesn’t matter… we’ll be destroyed ourselves if we don’t return with something.
The last of the words slither out from around before it propels forward and the two attack in a group each bringing a organic weapon down on Siegfried’s position, the apendenge, bladed heads threatening to tear him open. Lunging backwards to avoid the deadly strike, Siegfried rapidly slashes vertically sending crystallized fragments of condensed Azure energy directly where he was previously standing. The shards surge forward covering the area directly below the Seithr beings.
Siegfried: Behold my true power! This is your end you bastards... Sorin: Void Pillar!
He then slashes with confidence one last time, sending a wave of Azure Flames that ignite the shards, which explode to create a pillar of destructive azure energy that engulfs everything directly above it. With a roaring crackle, the darkened azure flames engulf everything in gyrating force; the condensed material seithr of the beings is torn apart by devouring infernos ripping apart their existence. They don’t say anything, don’t have time as the fires dance in deadly sequence before there isn’t a speck left in front of Siegfried.
Siegfried: (offscreen) It was worth it. All the time that day while waiting for Nex to waken... I was practicing rather than wasting time on making useless bonds. Why bother when I could be spending my time learning to control my Azure... 
(Flashback)
Siegfried is shown to be standing outside of the building using the same condensed shards to practice. 
With his motion they fly out and ignite to engulf their targets. Siegfried had been using the damaged structures in the streets, and barriers set up by the government against Zaezel to be the targets of his training...and each time getting a little stronger with the infernos they create--engulfing and reducing armagus barriers to dust. It causes the blue-grey metallic pillar-like structures linning the street before him to alight with neon blue heat as it strugles to stay standing. 
Siegfried: (Offscreen) After Nex said I wouldn't be able to control it... and ever since I got that energy from the Grimoire, I wanted to be stronger. 
It crumbles before him after the last blitz of flame dies out-- Siegfried stood with the same smile he wore now. 
Siegfried: Sorin: Void Pillar is only the beginning.   
(Back to present) 
Cinders of glimmering azure breeze by him as he held his sword, and the grounds below him were scorched to the earth beneath the metal floors.
Siegfried: Useless... not even a worthy challenge for my blade, tch... I hate weaklings. (Flourishes then sheathes his sword) 
There seemed to be nothing left over after the beings vanished, except for two oddly tinted small diamond shaped shards which his green eyes hone in on.
They reflect with a dismal sheen of bloody crimsons.
Siegfried: (To himself raising his brow in interest) …? Those shards, what’re they? They aren’t drops of blood, but instead they’re something else… (He outstretches a hand to touch the closest shard)
Siegfried takes the shard and looks at it for a moment turning it around trying to figure out the strange object.
It had the texture of an organic gem, hard as diamond but he’d never seen anything like it before. An feint source of destructive energy could be felt through it as it has a red aura shining through its body, and Siegfried’s own azure reacts to it, feeling energy similar to its own.
Siegfried: (To himself) Hm… interesting the power inside of this shard is like that of my own negative energy, its almost as if they’re both calling out to each other, but… Azure can’t do something such as that right? Unless they're closer in nature then I realize... 
???: You must be this “Hero of the Blue Flames” the government brags about. I wasn’t aware that your soul had made contact with Azure—we’re never informed of these things.
His attention is taken by the voice, in that direction,a person stood to the side who seemed to be the one coordinating the attack. He looked completely normal for the most part, with no defining features whatsoever and wore a uniform of no clear military origin--just had a bit strange of orange irises. His hair was messy and long, shoulder length and a tone of grey. He wasn't exceptionatly heavy or skiny in build either, but his skin is a bit pale. 
Siegfried: Well maybe you should complain about that to someone else… Whoever sent you must clearly dislike you, if they can’t even inform you of such simple things, but I guess you’re now having second thoughts.
???: Didn’t have a reason to care about it… but your azure is weak compared to the one that I’ve seen before. Those beings are peons, and nothing more.
Its there that Siegfried starts paying attention, this person must know Zaezel and have knowledge of the Seithr cores which he spoke of, and by the sounds of things Nex. 
Siegfried: (Holds the shard as he keeps his eyes toward the strange person) He knows about the Azure and Seithr cores--? Tch, this must be one of those behind all the issues in the city... (Outloud)  If i’m so weak then why do you care that I have power over Azure huh? By the sounds of it you’re way more afraid than you are letting on, so… tell me what exactly are you doing here then?
???: Afraid? (glances at him as the person smirks only for a second) Us? (scowls before shaking their head and gesturing subtly) We don’t feel fear. We don’t feel anything for the most part even if we're not fit to fight our opponent. I just made statement to how your azure’s power is less than impressive to a force of destruction.
He pauses and looks at the facility behind Siegfried's position. 
???: (Tilts his head up looking at the building) We were sent to get the cores inside of the facility. We need them and soul energy, among other things. 
Siegfried: (Shrugs returning the smirk) Well you’re welcome to try and get the cores, but… First you gotta get through me, and I doubt you’ll even put up much of a fight… Well perhaps less than Zaezel, but underestimating someone like you might be death.
???: (Gestures as he moves up to Siegfried) Arrogance brims like a kindled flame within your soul… (stops and looks at him) can respect that, somewhat. Its a finer point of the consuming attitude of humanity, but (glances down at the shard in his hand) I don't see a point in fighting you. 
Siegfried: Fine by me either way… If you don’t wanna fight it makes my job much easier. (Catches his eyes and looks down at the shard) This shard what exactly is it?
The person turns their eyes up to Siegfried for only a moment, before returning to the shard.
Siegfried: (Offscreen) It seems to be resonating from my Azure Energy.
???: (offscreen as it shows the shard) People call them “Shards of Sin”—They’re crimson shards from the boundary containing reactive energy from it, similar to Seithr Cores. I’m sure Zaezel told you about those and how humanity is going to be punished for the actions in the third war with them.
Siegfried: “Shards of Sin”? Interesting name… So, what exactly are these used for anyway, i’ve heard Zaezel talk about em yeah, but yet I have yet to hear how and why these are important to everyone.
???: What are they used for? Why would I say that? I think you have a decent clue about what the cores and shards might be used for. You feel the shard's power, bouncing in your mind with its addicting vibes; and Seithr Cores were what caused humanity to be in the hole they’re in now. The power your so-called government enjoys, is only because of the things like that shard and the cores. (smiles slightly) And their power comes from something they deny the existence of—and its also why they’ll fall.
Siegfried: Thanks for the explanation I guess.. even if it was a bit half-assed, but eh… I didn’t expect you to even answer it at all.
???: You don’t even try and stop us, that’s hilarious, do you just not care what people like us might do to the world? Even the Destroyer is making an effort, but you... just don’t care.
Siegfried: (Turns away slightly with a shrug of indifference) Its not my job to care what happens to this world, all that matters are my answers, (turns his head up at it and away) I could care less what happens to the world along the way. 
???: Interesting response. You know that kind of thinking will consume you completely and its probably why that energy clicks with you. (Turns and then walks over to the door looking at it) Not that someone like you cares about things like that. (glances back at him)
Siegfried: Tch... either leave or try and make it through the door, i'm not paid to sit here and chat with you. (Yawns moving his hand to rest on his swords hilt) Or rather if you don't leave i'll kill you right now...
???: That can wait. (looks past him) You can try the next time if you want. But I don't think your superiors really have desire to bother me... when it comes down to it. 
He retorts in confidence while stepping away from Siegfried.
???: But I have my own methods of manipulating the powers from the boundary. Don’t think we wont get in, we will eventually. But I have a report to give to Zaezel… and I should get back to looking for that girl who saw us. 
Siegfried: Yeah, yeah I can easily defeat you any- (Confused for a moment) ...A girl? What did you slip up and get caught or something?
???: No, she was supposed to be dead long ago. I didn’t even know she was still around. But you don't care. 
Siegfried: Dead a long time ago…? Ah, whatever you’re right I don’t care.
???: I thought so. You’re looking for a girl named Komyo, right?
Siegfried: So what if I am?
Invis: ... Invis... that's my name. 
He says suddenly before walking away, it struck Siegfried as odd to how he knew what he was doing. 
Siegfried: (To himself) That was no damn lucky guess, someone slipped up. 
He scowls in displeasure and annoyance all at once.
Siegfried: Just how much is secret if others already know? Tch. I don’t understand the point of trying to hide anything anymore…yet I don't know a lot myself either, and that pisses me off. 
He pounds the side of the wall with his body as he returns to the boredoms of guarding the facility. 
Siegfried: (To himself) Everyone else claims to know so much more than me, but it doesn't matter. Soon I'll get my answers—and that's all that matters. 
----
==Kiryos I/Nex and Akuhei III: A Bleak Break==
Akuhei: (Offscreen) Now lets try this again. Myri Kukiyona a girl whose always been something of a counter measure to destructive energies of seithr and the boundary—where exactly did she gain the power to see your Sequence before it even happens?
Nex: (Sneers in slight pain) I don’t know.
Akuhei: How do you not know? It was something you did boy, now I suggest you start talking. You don't get to change the rules—that's not how this works!
Nex: Gauhg--!
A disturbing crunch is heard; Nex wiplashes against the ground when pressure bursts in him from forceful and brutal pounds against his body with a loud cracking of bones and a thwak each time. After he regains a harsh breath he shoots a leer to the man with the mocking sneer returning a detest-filled glare from the bloodied and hard ground. 
Nex: Rgh...(sneers in animosity) I didn't. 
Akuhei: Do you care about her now or something? What exactly 'changed' hmm? You never gave a shit before—why do you now? Of all the damn times we've done this tired song and dance. 
Nex: I decided to protect her—that's all... if it changed anything I'm unaware of it. 
Akuhei: Eh? Protect? Oh now you know better than to do that Nex. I think I'll let you watch her slowly suffer… (stops, thinking over it for a moment) no...maybe not, I don’t think you care as much as she believes and wouldn’t get much a reaction when you’re only with her ‘cause you have to be…
Nex : Shut...up…don't even try it-- (Pushes himself off the ground, rather tries to, but swiftly collapses as a splitting pain fills his head from a blow) Uhgh!
Akuhei: Hehehaah... (Offscreen as Nex grunts and moves slightly and he speaks with a sinister edge) Or maybe I'm wrong? 
Kiryos still contemplates and hesitates to make his move, looking for a perfect opportunity.
Kiryos : (To himself) Hm… close enough, but it’s not the right moment.
Nex: (Coughs) Projects... 
He rasps it out. 
Akuhei: (Raises his brow in mocking manner and frowns) Projects? Can we stay on topic here—maybe speak more than one damn word? 
Nex: (Strained) It still is on topic bastard. She has shit to do with this... (crindges in pain slightly) Ghah...the Azure Sin Subject... what are they? The projects revolving around the cores, and the real gates... I found out more about em, in Taoreta...its connected to those damn worms isn't it? 
Akuhei: Ohhh... (taps his head with a finger and tilts it) You mean the confidential information that bastard cat stole from archives protected by the SIA that got him killed? That's why you're here isn't it? To find out more about those projects, and to destroy the gate here? (Lowers his head as he grins mockingly down at Nex) Perhaps you should find that one out yourself mm? 
Nex: Zaezel shouldn't be here... not just for me. He's after somethin...something that happened in Kagutsuchi... he wants the gate... 
The man turns his head, blinking his eyes with a sudden disinterest and pockets one of his hands. As the man uses his sole to keep Nex on the floor he gives a sneering huff. 
Akuhei: The Azure Sin Subject—the Nefas—you heard him in the 5th Area didn't you? (Looks back to Nex) You already know what they are. 
Nex: Heard what...
Akuhei: (Sighs) For knowing the truth you ask the most damn idiotic questions I've ever heard. (Gestures outward) They're an immitational remnant of seithr and the calamitious powers of the boundary! These humanoid beings imitate—which means 'copy' destructive P-o-w-e-r from the 'soul' by a modification or 'change' to the core of their being. You follow that? 
Nex: ...
Akuhei: So yes Nex... you're getting warmer on your little search and quest to learn the 'causality' behind things. 
Nex: ?! How do you know I--
Akuhei: I just do. Freaks you out doesn't it? I love those reactions. (Chuckles as he shrugs a bit) Though they're nothing but failed monsters in the end, just piss poor designed nightmares. What they do is none of my concern. 
Nex: (eyes widen) Failed monsters? 
Akuhei: For fucks-- (Mocks as he sighs and leans in) Yes. F.a.i.l.e.d--say it with me—FAILED. Do you not know the meaning of the word? They had the right idea but... well, it failed. 
Nex: Then... they weren't the intended result? You know about the people that made those things? 
Akuhei: (Closes his eyes in annoyance) Ugh. 
With a mocking sneer, the man drives his sole into the fresh wound and fills the chamber with the scent of iron.
Nex holds back a scream before Akuhei steps off of him and motions Leviathan from its position behind him. The sleek chain slithers and worms before it vanishes to a emerald darkness. Nex catches a few breaths just long enough for the pain to set in when something pierces him from bellow and Leviathan launches out of his body.
Instantly, Nex's wail follows the tear of his coat's thick black layer.
Nex: GHAGH! (Coughs again, holding his head down with his hand over the wound) Ahuugh...you... 
The Rebel falls silent and coils his head into the side of his coat's collar with a agonized, and pitiful groan. 
Akuhei:(Offscreen as he sounds sickeningly enthralled and excited) Ooooh that one hurt! Writhe s'more, I bet it hurt did didn't it?! Ahahaa... that wont heal for a while eh? Almost killed you, didn't I? Didn't I?!
Kiryos watches with a slight grimace of annoyance at the General's behavior. What could he do though standing by watching like this? If he stepped in now, he'd be killed. But his expression hints that he could barely stand anymore of it. After all, Nex had spared him, and since that time, he'd learned so much for himself about the truth of the government's ways. 
Watching Nex writhe wasn't something he took any kind of pleasure in. 
Turning on his side to get pressure off of the horrid trench wound, Nex coils his head down, and grasps the injury which cut to the bone. With a pained scowl he locks his teeth together and still writhes. From the gaps blood gushes out between growls, the crimson drips down his mouth and body to the tiled ground.
Akuhei: (Smiles with insane glee) Ohhh that would have been bad of me... don't you think Nexi boy? I can't go breaking the rules—that's just unheard of!  
Nex remains agonized by the blow that eats at him inside inflicting a excruciating sensation which weakens him until he doesn't struggle much at all and his hand hits the ground flat. However, slowly, the hateful crimson and azure nova behind Nex's irises direct themselves at Akuhei with cold malice once more.
Nex: Go to hell...
Akuhei: Oh lemme tell you the urge is hard to hold back; the desire. You feel it from your Grimoire...(Walks over and smiles again as he pokes him with Leviathan's blade and lifts his gaze and drops his tone) Don't you? The desire to kill, its power is wonderful, isn't it? And it just. keeps. growing.
Nex merely looks at him with narrowed eyes, while Akuhei's expression shows dejection for a moment as he pulls the blade away. 
Akuhei: Too bad you never fucking use it. (Scowls annoyed) One of these days Nex, I'm going to get bored of it. And then, I'll kill you for real. 
The rebel remains silent until he groans as Akuhei then puts a grip on his threat and lifts him slightly off the ground. 
Akuhei: (Returns to a demented smile) But I'm feeling generous today... all that talking of the Azure Sin Subjects reminded me I have the most wonderful thing to show you. (To himself) Wait a second... 
He remembers there being another present in the room and clicks his tongue in slight annoyance.
Akuhei: (To himself) The Major... that's a slight snag. I could kill him but... (reaches into his coat while speaking) hey, Major, if you're done listening in—I’m dismissing you from this vicinity… (Grins) Go focus on your mission, These two are in my custody now.
Kiryos sighs as Akuhei somewhat messes up his plan, but still it was the only chance for him. He turns around and heads for the exit, only to stop before the door.
Kiryos : General, I would like you to know that… (snaps his fingers) I quit.
Suddenly icy mist fills the room and freezes Akuhei in place, neutralizing him for the time being.
Kiryos turns around and helps Nex get up from the floor. 
Kiryos : (Looks at Akuhei) Stay frosty.
As the ice forms higher with crackling sounds and glimmers bright, a few seconds pass until a serpentine energy builds itself, it pulses slowly as green veins spiderweb throughout, before in a single instant it wildly rends through shattering the icy prison to pieces.
Akuhei with arms swung out lets off a laugh of amusement when the ice shatters.
Akuhei : Ehehaahaa! You quit?! Oh of course you do! (shrugs outward as he fixes his coat) it doesn’t surprise me a bit.
Nex: (To himself) Damn, he knew this was gonna happen... 
Akuhei: You’re looking for the “Truth” aren’t you Kiryos? I knew the others should have shattered that will to the “World’s” before it became an issue—I mean at least you would have been a bit more obedient to them.
Kiryos : Tch… obedient? Why? To continue killing people that didn’t do anything to deserve the bitter end? (Closes his eyes) Oh, I am sorry, Akuhei, but I am sick of it. I will follow my own path from now on.
Akuhei : Eh I kinda figured that’d happen… given who your family is. (moves his foot and taps the ground) But don’t get me wrong—I didn’t really give a shit if you had your mind broken to obedience of their systems or not…
Akuhei gains a slight scowl as he places his hand out while folding the opposite over his forearm. 
Akuhei: Were it left up to me, I would have simply killed you. But, it wasn’t, it was their choice to put you through any of that. In fact some of them were the only thing keeping you from death… because I knew you were going to become a thorn.
As the serpent spoke, it struck a question in Kiryos’s mind: who was “they”? The Council, others in the SIA? Whose choice was it behind the decision of the day his life completely changed?
Akuhei : But alas who am I to stop the great government from making their choices? You’ve opened your eyes, you’ll seek the “truth” and they’ve given themselves a problem in you now…
Kiryos : (Folds his arms) Maybe they knew better than you. After all, the mighty General Akuhei isn’t omniscient.
Akuhei : Oh I know more than you think Kiryos… (glances at Nex who slumps over keeping his strong leer) ask Azure 0.
Exhausted, Nex growls slightly as he tries to remain on his feet. Blood still flows down from the wounds, and the man grimaces as they were in no shape to continue fighting. 
Akuhei: I know exactly why they made the choices they did… I just really don’t. (grinds his teeth) give a fucking damn, what they think. I hate them in fact… them and their little toys they left in charge…
Akuhei’s words slide out with disgusted malice as he cocks his head to the side for a moment and then regains his smile.
Akuhei : But…you’re free to search for the Truth of your own soul, I don’t really care, losing one pawn doesn't matter at all. Besides, now that you’ve let yourself go… no one will listen to a “Traitor”.
Kiryos : I don’t intend to talk to anyone from the government. And those who know me would listen to what I would say. Not that it matters to you, anyway.
Akuhei : Nono it doesn’t matter to me, but just because you cut yourself from them doesn’t mean you’re done dealing with them. I don’t have time for you though regardless… (Turns his stare back at Nex) and I’m not done with you Azure 0, I have a present.
Nex : Tch... (growls as he held his chest) you can keep it…
Akuhei’s feet move him along the broken tile as his hand outreaches to the side summoning Leviathan around him once more to deal with Kiryos if need be. 
Akuhei: Oh come now, don’t be so sour about it. I promise its something you’re gonna fucking love.
Kiryos creates a glimmering ice dagger in his hand and throws it at Akuhei in an attempt to distract him.
Kiryos : Enough of your atrocities.
As Akuhei catches the dagger in his sight, he flashes a amused smirk, catches it between his fingers, and a corrosive emerald aura cracks through it until the ice shatters. 
While Nex struggles to bring himself to a stance again, Kiryos then starts to draw his blades--until Akuhei raises a hand and waggles it.
Akuhei : Ah ah, wait… (reaches into his coat and pulls something spherical out from it)
A core of solid seithr and strange force slides out into the palm of Akuhei’s hand, blood red energy violently swarms inside of its ebony body.
Nex’s eyes widen with surprise as he witnesses it, and lowers his head into a growl.
Akuhei : (Snickers as he spins it for a moment and then laughs) Kukuahahahaa! Nex! Do you know what this is? This deep red ... Do you remember it? You should... 
The thing pulsates with a strong energy that makes Nex a bit nervous and he holds his chest as his body feels like an inferno ran through it. His eyes glint angrily as he struggled, that tug was unusually strong, surprising him.
Akuhei: (Offscreen) You wanted to know what Zaezel was after? This was the start of it all. 
Nex: (To himself) Impossible, that Seithr core is completely red...but only my power or direct exposure made the Seithr Cores a full red like that—how did this bastard get one?! 
----
==Miwa II: The White Flower and Promise==
They manage to get through to the cathedral after passing through the eastern hallways. As they come up to the large gate encasing the transporter in a cocoon of steel bars, Yumiko prepares to enter.
Yumiko : Here we go again then. (Reaches her hand out, but stops as she heard approaching footsteps)
??? : Are you leaving, Miwa?
Miwa’s eyes widen as she hears the light and slightly sad voice, turning to see a young girl looking at her with radiant eyes as she holds something within her small hand. The Azure Interface Primefield she encountered last night had come to say good-bye it seemed, while Yumiko looks over and tilts her head in confusion at Illia’s apparent recognition of Miwa.
Yumiko : Does she know you?
Miwa : I..I do...but, its impossible...
Iilia : Miwa, its fine, its dangerous for you to stay here… even Exi knew that when he saw your Azure like I did.
Yumiko : Exi? (blinks) I’m very confused… Miwa? (Looks at her)
Miwa : No, I can’t leave yet, not if you’re still here.
Yumiko : What? (Rubs her head) What’s going on?
Miwa : I never knew what happened to everyone after the accident happened. If I have a second chance to help you than I want to! After all, all I wanted to do was help all of the AIPs…
Iilia : … (stares) Did you know other AIP? (Frowns) I see… that’s why you’re so sad. You knew another Type… and you didn’t get to know what happened to her.
Yumiko : Wait you’re an Azure Interface Primefield?
Iilia : (Nods as she walks over to Miwa and smiles at her) Don’t be sad Miwa. You’re going to have the chance to help many people.
Miwa : Then come with us, you don’t have to be kept locked up away in there. Not like...her…
A tone of sorrow in her voice brings a frown to the young AIP’s expression as she looks up at her.
Miwa seems incredibly troubled and Yumiko simply listens as there was very little she could do. Though she did know why she was so upset, it was because she never knew the fate of the AIP she met 200 years prior.
Iilia : Miwa, I don’t know if I can…and I’m not trying to make you sad, I know that something bad happened long ago, I feel sadness from you. (Frowns slightly) But if I leave, Exi would be upset. He has me because he lost the ones he cared for long ago, I remind him of what he lost—so I’m all he has left. You don’t have to worry about me being hurt when he’s around Miwa. 
For some reason, Miwa felt sorrow around these AIP, the inability to help made her wish to help and do anything she could in this time, it was like a second chance for her.
Miwa : Promise me that if you’re in trouble, you’ll fight. You won’t let them take you without a fight.
Her voice rang with a certain determination solidified from a pain that probably couldn’t be understood by the young girl. And she simply stares at her for a moment.
Iilia : Can I… do that? (closes her eyes slightly) Fighting, it seems so hard (looks back at her with a nod) because I’ve heard, it hurts at times… but I’ll try Miwa if I have to.
Miwa : I just want you to be safe. I don’t want to see someone else hurt because of me.
Yumiko : (ears droop slightly thinking to herself) Miwa… no one has been hurt because of you… it couldn’t of been her fault for that.
Iilia : I’ll be safe Miwa, I promise. (nods as she then looks at her) You have to be careful too, Exi told me to tell you to be careful of the people who have the red shards, the fragments of sin. People who have used bad energy from the boundary…
Yumiko : Bad energy?
Iilia : But Exi told me that… you have something different. Something pure, and something good. (holds her hand) “Treasure that gift to help others see hope again in this world”. That’s what he said.
Miwa : I will try.
Iilia nods as she then puts something in her hand.
Iilia : He wants you to have this. (Offscreen as Miwa takes it) He has one to, but for some reason he really wanted you to have one. I don’t know why, but he said it would turn into something really pretty when I gave it to you.
As Miwa opens her hand to see it, its a withered white flower, that looked incredibly aged. It almost brought her to tears holding that flower… and she concentrates, generating a pink aura around it as it blooms into life once more.
Miwa : …
Yumiko : (Offscreen as Miwa looks at it) ! Its… alive again…
Miwa pictures the young girl in her mind who had a similar flower in her hair after Miwa brought it to life for her back then as well.
The flower that young man with those strong jade eyes gave to that AIP, a similar flower that withered and perished and now 200 years later-- it lives again in her hands. She holds those memories which were cherished inside of its gleaming petals a symbol of their hope.
Yumiko : Miwa… are you okay? (Looks at her)
“Alpha Four”, she says it but no sound comes as a single tear drops to the petal of the ivory flower.
She pictured the girl who she helped to learn and was her friend back then who had a wish for peace and would never harm any. Yet... Miwa knew something terrible happened to them. 
An individual with a heart as innocent as her own. How did “Exi” know all this? She wouldn’t get to know, they had to leave.
Iilia stares at her wondering why she had gems of water forming in her bright eyes.
Miwa : I’ll come back! I promise. I have to ask Exi so many questions now.
Yumiko : Well, I guess there’s no changing that resolve. Right now we might be on the run, but one day we’ll come back here. (Looks at Iilia) So wait for us okay?
Iilia : (nods with a smile after she releases Miwa’s hand) We will. Good luck Miwa.
She squeaks out as she then backs away letting the two have their space to prepare to go into the city. Miwa keeps hold on the flower for good luck, it was a flower she’d never let die again.
As they step into the transport, the light whirls and hums in low tones gradually picking up as it gathers force in its vicinity. Particles of energy generate around them, distorting the area as it collapses around them. However, Miwa didn’t feel sick this time or scared, she simply continues to look at the flower with heavy eyes. Yumiko has a gentle tone as she speaks to her and draws her eyes.
Yumiko: Hey. (Puts her hand on her shoulder with a smile as she notices her somber look) You’ll come back. Whatever it takes we’ll get you back to Iwatsuchi to find them.
----
In a room with a single door behind him a spherical ceiling stretches above with a large database connected to a metallic core.
A man in his mid 20's in appearance with frayed semi long white hair and bright jade eyes looks to the bending light which creates a massive hologram screen display. A decorative uniform of scarlet and white sits on his body, one he didn't particularly care for but wore due to protocol. 
On the screen is what appears to be the boundary in its darkness and a strange massive object within it. Only a part of it is focused on, but neon blue light courses throughout its organic azure-colored spherical form clad in shimmering metallic armor. A dark red energy also sits beneath it, separated and prevented contact to the object by a large magic sigil. Between it is red and blue, swirling together like thick tails of dark and light kept separate by the seals of magic all around its shell. 
Exi: (To himself) Still sleeping within the boundary... Nex hasn't stirred its activity at all thankfully. The world is still stable. Until we figure out how to remove the corrosion it wont be safe to activate...
Approaching footsteps catch the man's attention, and a knock on the door brings his attention away from the display. He leaves the table and walks over to the door, touching it, the door slides open and he looks at the girl who stares at him with bright eyes of curiosity. 
Iilia: Exi? Are you still busy? 
Exi: Iilia? (exits the room and lowers to her level as he looks at her) Did you find Miwa and give her the blossom? 
Iilia: Yes I did. She said she'd come back one day to talk to you. 
Exi: (Sighs and then stands back up) I would imagine she'd want to. 
Iilia: Exi, there were people in the hallway... I think they were listening in...
Exi: Miwa is beginning to recall the past where she met the first Azure Interface Primefield that became the individual to complete the successor. If the SIA catches onto her she'll be in dire danger. 
Iilia: ... (Frowns) 
Exi: No one aside us and Nex is supposed to know the truths of this world's secrets the government buried which linked to the past when the Azure was found again, and AIP became weapons. Those 'seithr cores', if it's true that the Red cores are still being designed then we're destined to repeat history and we'll meet ruin at the Azure's judgement for those sins.  
Exi moves past the girl and she follows him in a hurry, the man walks over and looks down over the railing at the lower wing. He watches the soldiers patrol the area with a slight frown-- Though no real emotion is shown in his expression. 
Exi: Knowing that... (closes his eyes slightly) I don't understand why our previous leader left us and left me in this position. (turns his head slightly to the structures) Perhaps his hope was devoured by the 'core' of the red and green darkness he found in the Third War or perhaps the weight of usurping the gods power destroyed his mind knowing that it would bring destruction and despair to all our futures.
He closes his eyes as he pictures the blackness in the boundary.
Exi: (Thinking) The Azure Sin Subject... it wasn't supposed to be possible for them to be created after the war, and yet they're here crafted by man in the present. If they're here... then there's no doubt their architects are looking to make something succeed in contact with the source of that sin.
He feels something lightly tug on his sleeve and then glances back to Illia who seemed to be trying to cheer him up. 
Iilia: Exi, lets go look outside and walk around the building. Maybe we can find one of those flowers. 
Exi: Alright, but quickly. I'll have to go back to work soon. (Sighs thinking to himself) 12 and 4, their imitation cores don't corrode naturally like most others from influence of their origin in the sealed off boundary—its like they're holding onto something. I'll make sure the NOS never weaponizes her. 
He goes to follow her down the hallway. 
----
==Ending: The Red in the Boundary==
In the middle of the wreckage of the conflict that Zaezel brought, Sylar stands against the wall of the partially destroyed building. 
Away from him was Valetha searching through crevices into the soot and seithr on the metal ground uncaring of the fact it made her skin bleed to touch the edges of the shrapnel through her attire. 
Sylar: (in disbelieving tone as he waves his open claw) Let me get this straight—You're suggesting this scientist knew about this fantasy of yours, called the 'Red' and that's why the Illegal forces came here? Because they're after it... which has some kinda research century old that uses theories disproved fucking years ago...
Valetha: That's the archives he had...(turns her head back to sylar before she continues searching) I'm certain of it. And the government was coming after him to confiscate it... because its bad research, around the 'Red'. From some century ago likely.
Sylar: Uh, bad research? You mean black? Like illegal?
Valetha: No. 'Bad', it shouldn't of been done, it shouldn't exist! In the past, there was an entire city that went (gestures with a cold grin) fwoosh—up in flames because of it! The peaceful city being destroyed in the past, and all the people turned to seithr as punishment!
Sylar: (Lowers his head away with a smirk of disbelief) ...A city destroyed in the past? (Folds his arms as he plays with lightning inbetween his digits) We're pulling shit out of our ass now aren't we? There was never a city destroyed in the past. 
Valetha: Oh all those poor people some weren’t even aware and then the red just kills all of them and makes their souls damned forever! Nono Demon it was a sin! A sin of creation…punishment for what they did! Those people were insanely mad! They must've been. And just because they're gone now doesn't mean what they left behind is...
Sylar: Well then, you'll have to forgive me for thinking you're batshit insane. (Stops the lightning and then looks away toward the deteriorated walls) I mean what is this all from—a memory? Memories can't be trusted worth crap...they decay like anything else. You ever think it might not be real and just a figment left over from I dunno... some kind of torment? Were you mishandled?
Valetha: Mishandled? Its drilled into my head by humanity! Those labs, those scientists its no figment of my imagination, demon, I remember seeing something in the gate!
The abysmal depths of darkness and slowly something comes into view which is blackened and crimson in color while on occasion swarming emerald squirms throughout it in veins. 
Valetha: (Offscreen) There was nothing in that gate, nothing but darkness and the quiet of that boundary... but I saw it. Something hiding which emitted insane levels of seithr, pulsating with power—a core body of power! Black as night, organic, red wrapped inside of a formation like a spherical cocoon. They kept wanting me to make contact with it... but I didn't. But just knowing of it, made my soul so... so... cold... inside. I wanted to take their lives after it demon... 
Sylar: (To himself) ...Gate... is this Red some kinda form of concentrated seithr? A body of power...hidden in the boundary. Seithr comes from the boundary and this thing made seithr? ... tch wait why am I even entertaining this shit? 
Valetha: The image of that dying city was burned into my mind after it. I pursue the Red uncontrollably… and its led me here! 
She stomps the ground with her heel continuously in place out of frustration, and Sylar watches with confusion in his expression as he lets off a sigh and stands straight. 
Valetha: Right here on this seithr covered ground… its dead dead dead just like the scorched city! (Stops suddenly and then looks at Sylar once more with her ruby eyes) And only here, did I see that memory. How do you explain that when its never bothered me until now? 
Sylar: Mm... easy. (puts his palm out facing the ceiling) Here's your explantion: I think you're suffering from a symptom called a fucked up mind—sometimes caused by a traumatic experience. I suggest going to seek psychiatric help or perhaps a mental asylum.
Valetha blinks at the response and then cracks into a laugh holding her gun up as the barrel shakes, making Sylar roll his eyes at her behavior. 
Valetha: Ahhaaa! Don't you see? Its the past repeating itself! Its because of the Red that these people, these insects died! Its just, like the city! The Red leaves death in its wake! Nothing but destruction and death--! Because that man, the bastard of a scientist knew about it this poor poor city is suffering for it! 
Sylar: Yeah okay fine the Illegal Forces were here for research stemming from Ishana—but Ishana wasn't destroyed. It was sealed off. Nothing illegal was going on there, it was regarded as one of the safest cities. 
Valetha: Isn't that the perfect place? Where no one would suspect anything? 
Sylar: ...
Valetha: The Red is why people DIE and give in. It leads you to kill, it builds the sin in all of us sleeping like a little beast. (Taps her head with the barrel of the gun as she walks back over to Sylar) It consumes the souls it takes... and pursuing its power… its like an alluring scarlet virus in the mind. Fills you with a desire to kill and commit evils… Twists you, warps you! And you have no choice but to twist with its spiral.
Soles of her heel clacking loudly against the wreckage, she approaches closer each moment until the Demon looks down at her when she's advanced right to his chest. 
Valetha: The governments know. Nex… Nex he’s… a part of it. Nex is in the center of everything… him and his Azure, and he’s why I came here. He’ll lead me to The Red.
Sylar: If you're trying to freak me out its not working, although I will say you're a bit... lustful.
Valetha: That's because you exude alluring strength...(puts her hand on his chest and Sylar simply looks over) like he does. You're a force of destructive nature, and sin, demon. It's a shame you don't embrace that true side of yourself more often. 
Hearing that, Sylar's eyes narrow slightly as the energy in his arm lights up bright with pulsating darkness. In a second's passing his digits tightly grip the woman's arm and he lifts her looking at her with a sneer while the seithr around him sparks with his sudden disdain. 
Sylar: It's a shame that your body is flimsy as hell and I can rip it right apart. (drops her as he growls slightly) Just get back to the damn topic. 
Valetha: My body is no where near as strong as something like yours or his. But my own humanity is nearly gone at that. Once I find the red I'll finally have my answers!
Sylar: Why the hell would the government who is clearly against free will and chaos be letting something that strong as this 'Red' exist?
Valetha: Because they can’t stop it. Not now…those scientists who knew about it died. The government came in and said (waggles her finger in front of Sylar) nono you can’t be doing that, that’s a sin against our world!  (frowns and then laughs slightly) Oh they’re so scared to death of it happening again! But they can't stop it... A world that doesn't know is a perfect world they can lie to and hide their demons. 
Sylar: If Nex knows about the Red why has no one ever heard of it but you? 
Valetha: People prefer ignorance and the government provides the magots with it... and I never said the Beast of Sin knew about this... only that he's the one who will lead to the Red, but I have a feeling he knows.
Valetha then smiles and she starts to walk away, putting Iblisa away in its straps on her back, the riffle's energy quiets as she draws away down the street out of the deteriorating ruble. 
Valetha: Demon, the Red is real...its the truth no one wants to see. People still seek it out... I have to find my own connection to it, and punish the rest of humanity for what they've done. I have to kill. Its why I've been killing and will continue to kill. 
Sylar: (Walks out looking to the side at her while she moves toward the sector) And why tell me any of this?
Valetha: Because you already know you're looking for the truth too, you aren't ignorant. I think you just fear the truth like anyone else.  I feel... the Red can lead someone to the only truth for this world there is.
Sylar: Tch, whatever you say Scarlet Demoness. (To himself) If this has anything to do with the Eye of Sheol then I need to find Nex... this is sounding a lot like Ibukido and Taoreta's classified records of those experiments with the gate Nex looked into in the past—Just what is this 'Red'?
Sylar pockets his claws into his coat, flips his hood back up and then turns back to the sector heading an opposite route, he wore a frown of troubled thought holding his head slightly downward while he continues moving.
----
End of Episode 22
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