Azure 0: Rebellion Sequence/A2E4: A Perilous Paradise/Transcript

Previously: Episode 3: The Red Hunters
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Arc 2: Children of Sin
Episode 4: A Perilous Paradise
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Area: The 4th Exalted City of Naobi 
Central level, Outside of the Military District
After some trecking through the lower levels, the waste and debris finally gives way to the sight of the horizon. The instant they step out of the tunnel they activate their concealing ars to make their appearances stand out less.
Turning his head every which way, the young rebel takes in all the sights of the central level of Naobi. Its scale impressive, but besides the NOS personnel patrolling it and the stock Prime Fields clad in units flying above their heads, there are very few citizens. Its structure is built for war, not sight-seeing. There are monoliths, towering structures, and energy flowing along the ground in flashing streams of light being dispersed throughout the whole city. The walls of the city are enormous like a fortress and ars magus vessels streak the skies.
Imyo: Not the most welcoming city... it is built for combat after all.
Locke: Used to be quartered here in Naobi for a while before being transferred back to my original squad in Okoto. The Marshal has turned this city into a war base, so not many civilians live here. This place is sealed tighter than a tuna can.
Imyo: Sure is.
They continue to move through the central level of the city, and even higher up looks impossible to get through, with sealed gates and guards littering the area.
Imyo: It’s an ancient-looking design, yet also futuristic due to all of the weaponry. We had better keep our wits about us if we don’t want to get turned into a puff of Seithr.
Nex: (Shudders) Something about this place hurts my head...what is he using to power all of this?
Imyo: Who knows. The Marshal is the kind of individual who most simply refuse to mess with, even fellow higher ups. They let him do his business, whether people agree with it or not, he is one of the reasons this Government is so powerful and he has a good chunk of the NOS who admire his ambitions and work.
Nex: Yeah well, I don’t want to spend much time here...I hate it.
Cerea: This place is foreboding... I've been here once when I was competing. A lot of military kids are groomed to be promising members of the Militia, so they have some real monsters here. I barely managed to defeat their champion last year.
Nex: I wouldn’t think he’d care about hosting competitions in a city like this...
Imyo: You’d be amazed. Pitting people against one another and seeing who comes out on top is what he does, he’s about supremacy and pushing people to their limits, always has been.
Nex: Really? Why?
Imyo: That's just his philosophy, kid. Naobi and Iwasu not only boasts the best militia, technology, and researchers, but Naobi houses the gladiatorial event that plays out once every year… to immense fanfare. (Sighs in disapproval) But those aren’t any kind of competition for ‘normal’ folk. Those are for people who have Drives and other unnatural abilities. Some of the Sequence Destroyers were put through it too while Lukain at times puts the winner in his personalized force.. .(Frowns) and people have been known to die in those celebrated events.
Nex: (Scowls in disbelief) That’s kind of messed up...
Locke: Well, it's a rare occurrence. Usually things don't go that far, but... yeah, I've heard about that. During my time here nobody died, which is really good. Not a fan of bloodbaths and such.
NOS Guard A: Excuse me...what are citizens doing here? You have no business coming toward the higher levels without explicit permission.
Nex looks over at the guards looking at them from one of the gates leading to the higher areas, their uniforms are decorative and they’re coated in high-tech Ars suits. Their weapons look especially advanced Ars with crystallized bits of something inside.
Imyo: (Quickly) Our apologies, officers.
The one by their side peers at them with suspicion.
NOS Guard B: You’re an awfully large group... six citizens wandering around at this hour? Two of them minors?
Locke quickly comes up with a solution as he looks at Nex and Cerea.
Locke: Escorting them to their houses, officer. We're their families' friends, were asked by their parents to bring the kids back home. Lovebirds tried to run away from home, thought they'd be like Romeo and Juliet... you know how it ends.
Nex: (Confused) The hell…? Hey what's that mea--
Before Nex's words can finish, Imyo smacks him lightly on the back, enough to make him lose his sentence in a cough.
Imyo: Ah, yes, they get into trouble at these hours. Their families are worried so they hired us to bring the kids home. This boy has a Drive, so we have to be careful, need the extra hands, he can get a bit wild.
Nex hums without confidence and in chagrin when Imyo pats him on the back.
NOS Guard A: Oh? I see. Well, the housing districts are by the main gates. These two shouldn’t be wandering up here, it’s military-owned sectors from here on.
Dumbfounded by the conversation, the teenager whips his head back, exasperated as he is put on the spot. Restraining a groan, he then looks at the officers and tries to follow along.
Nex: I...was sneaking out to explore the military sectors. It didn’t work though... clearly.
In a moment of realization, Cerea catches onto the intent and helps Nex out with her own performance.
Cerea: (Waves her hands quickly) No no... he just tried to impress me. You know, (glances to Nex) I always wanted him to do something dumb for me, something that proves that... he loves me. So I told him we should run away. He's just trying to cover for me, officer.
Eyes half-closed at this, Nex shakes his head and shrugs his shoulders before resting his hand on his side.
Nex: Sure...whatever she says.
Processing this story, the two officers exchange looks with one another, before one of them beams in response.
NOS Guard B: Oh, so that's what it's about. The wildness of young lovers, but they say the man will fight the ferocity of beasts to protect those dear to him.
Nex: ...(Shakes his head quickly) I'm sorry--what the hell are we even talking about anymore?
NOS Guard B: And by the way, if you want to impress her, son, then you should show your skills in the Marshal’s Gladiatorial competition, the annual Supremacy of Souls!
He walks up to Nex who is baffled at this sudden action, uncertain of how to respond when the man's contact device flashes a display of some kind of Colosseum sitting atop Naobi appears in his face. There are drawings depicting competitors clashing in the various sections of the flyer.
NOS Guard B: It’s pretty soon, you know? Normally you’d need the higher ups stamp of approval, but... if you’ve got a strong enough Drive, you can get in just by showing him yourself. If you’re the champion, oh I guarantee you’ll get any girl you want.
Nex: (Blinks with a look of confusion) Uh…
Imyo: (Chuckles nervously) He’s wild, but not that wild. Is it really that time of year?
The guard shuts the display off momentarily and pockets the device.
NOS Guard B: Sure is. And we’ve got front row seats to all the action, just have to stay here for the night…
NOS Guard A: (Clears throat) We’re still on duty... Don’t let yourself get too excited.
Locke: You sure sound like you've been holding that pitch in your head for a while. You sure you don't want to become a salesman when you retire?
Spence: Yeah. That would definitely be a good course of action. Gotta think about retirement plans.
NOS Guard A: (Sighs) Nah, he's just a fan of the show... an overzealous fan who thinks he knows best. Anyone who has a Drive and talks to him near this time he asks to join.
Nex: You can't be serious... NOS Guard B: Of course I'm serious. (Gestures in enthusiasm) Everyone loves a dark horse. It makes the action more exciting! So you never know, kid, you could make it a much better experience for us.
Unable to deal with this, Nex restrains rolling his eyes.
Locke: Yeah, well, I've seen the games before. Didn't that guy win last year... you know, from the Duodecim family? It was like... (Snaps his fingers, trying to remember) Kochoki, right? The guy who fights with gauntlets and greaves? I have a friend here who sent me a link for the final match.
Locke's words only excite the Guard more who lights up with passionate tone.
NOS Guard B: Eikorae from house Kochoki! A favorite who is an absolute terror in combat! He burnt the competition to the ground and is undefeated. Even got put in Marshal's personal forces.
NOS Guard A: Now you've got him going...
Imyo: (Puts his paw on his head) What have we been dragged into…
Nex: (Sighs, muttering) This is so stupid…
Serza: (Voice only) Hello citizens of Naobi, guards. Enjoying discussion of the annual event?
Hearing the mellow tone of the male come from ahead, Nex's eyes light up with alarm, giving himself a second to process who it belongs to. Watching two figures come out of one of the military gates, he catches himself before he squints and withholds the urge to say anything. Imyo sees the slender teenaged male accompanied by a slightly older young adult with a naginata.
Arcius casually greets the guards and seems to approve of their discussion.
Arcius: Good to know that the spirits of our protectors are at an all-time high. Seems like this event is going to be a blast, I can already tell. And I've already seen the betting info on the web. Seems like we've got a few favorites this year.
Locke slightly turns his head to the one-eyed man, trying to put him at ease.
Locke: Who you'd put your bet on, partner? Maybe I could make some plats on this as well.
Arcius: (Wags his fingers) Uh-uh-uh, you'll spoil my luck. But you will see. If that participant goes to the finals, it's going to be worth it.
Serza: (Looks at Arcius with a grin of amusement) I'm surprised you haven't entered yet...you'd win easily. As for me, I'm not one for combat...
Nex gives him a subconscious dubious stare at this remark, but Serza doesn't seem to pick up on it.
NOS Guard A: (Straightens out in alarm) Oh, forgive our unprofessionalism… Colonel Serza-- Arcius.
Serza: (Shakes his head, wagging his hand) At ease, I quite enjoy a good bit of speculation to hype up Marshals favorite competition.
He notices Nex looking at him and returns a stare of his own, walking over, much to the teenager's shock who steps back warily. Imyo watches this reaction with interest, ready to step in.
Serza: You're not in trouble for running around here...don't worry. But I can tell you have a strong desire there, friend. I sense a Drive like no other.
Nex: (Frowns in surprise, thinking to himself) H-huh? Does he already know it's me?
Locke: A lot of people have Drives around here.
Arcius: Yeah, but my friend here senses something special about you, he is quite well-versed in matters like this.
Guard B: See? (Elbows the other guard) I told you man, he's got something to him! Even the Infernal Viper agrees!
Nex: (Squints and frowns) ...I really don't.
Serza's jade eyes close in thought before he shrugs once.
Serza: I don't know for sure, just was playing into things to see what he'd do. He does have an interesting spark, but can't really tell what it is. Do you want to show us your Drive?
With a sigh at this persistence, the young rebel looks at Imyo for guidance who soon speaks up.
Imyo: We really need to be going to the residential district now... his parents can think about entering him into the competition. He shouldn't be out here in the military districts. He knows better.
Arcius: Oh, his parents will be pissed. I'd bet mine would be too.
Locke: Yeah, I remember my mama just freakin' out about everything. When I was out with my friends on a concert, when I was at my girlfriend's place, when I got into fights... all that stuff made me the man I am now. I say let the kids experience life.
Spence: Yeah, in this day and age kids are too sheltered, they're too safe... when I was a kid, I was about and about all over the city. Man, those were the days.
Seemingly disinterested in the topic and hums in reminiscence of something.
Serza: Ah, family. Of course. Wouldn’t want to make your family upset… maybe some other time then.
Imyo: We’ll be going, officers.
Imyo soon pulls Nex away, the voice of the guard still reaches them though as the group moves toward the main residential districts.
Guard B: (Offscreen) I'm serious, give it some thought, kid! The show needs it's dark horses! You could be famous!
When the words reach them from behind, the cat beastkin releases a long-held-in sigh of exasperation.
Imyo: Gods... what on earth did we run into. Although those two…
Nex: I know that guy.
The sudden response from the youngest male makes his ears flick, and Imyo turns his head at him attentively.
Nex: I met him a few months before you found me. The guy with the jade eyes and green streaks in his hair.
Imyo: That Serza fellow... he did remind me of someone. So did the other young man with him.
Locke: Hope he didn't recognize us, otherwise we'd be screwed.
Spence: Wouldn't want to become gladiators to fight for our freedom.
Imyo: Remember, we have concealing Ars on. They wouldn’t be able to recognize us even if they knew us.
He then returns his focus to Nex.
Imyo: Is that boy with the jade eyes your friend from the refuge?
It takes Nex a few seconds to try and answer this question, recalling the conversations and encounters he shared with Serza.
Nex: (Frowns in thought) I wouldn’t call him that. He’s... odd. I’m not really sure what he’s doing, or why he’s here. And that other guy with him isn’t anyone I know...
Spence: But those two guards knew them. That's not a good sign.
Locke: Yeah, they were pretty important. Arcius and Serza... gotta remember those names.
Nex: I would go talk to Serza, but I’m not sure it’s a smart idea if he’s with people I don’t recognize.
Imyo: Well, you might get a chance another time, right now we need to stay away.
He looks ahead and spots the elevator to ride to the residential areas, the six make their way along toward it. However, a question burns in Nex's mind and he looks right at Imyo with a squint.
Nex: Hey, what was that about, calling us Romeo and Juliet and lovebirds? The hell does any of that mean?
Imyo: Oh, you probably don’t understand those things, do you? (Reaches back to his head, rubbing it) Well, it’s not important, kid. Just remember that sometimes you have to act on the spot.
He seems disgruntled over this answer, growing quiet.
Nex: Tch. It felt awkward. Don’t make me do it again.
Locke: Well, you gotta learn how to play pretend, otherwise you'll be found out easily.
Cerea: Yeah, I didn't like it either, Nex, but we had to act like we're two dumb teens in love.
Nex: (Grumbles) Was still idiotic.
After a short snort of amusement from Imyo at Nex's comment, the group enters the gate covered in runes of Magic and passes through it to gather on the large circular surface of the elevator suspended over the lower level. It still allows for a view of the city while the mechanism begins to bring them down.
Watching the machine operate and descend toward the residential district, Serza stands with Arcius and the guards in silent contemplation. His attention is taken by one of the guards speaking to him.
NOS Guard A: Serza, what brings you to Naobi? We’re honored, but your appearance is sudden, sir.
NOS Guard B: It's definitely not for the Souls of Supremacy... although if you two entered it'd be an even bigger hit.
Serza: (Exhales) Hah... no, it's not. Colonel Arcius and I along with the others are here on official orders from Marshal and General.
NOS Guard A: (Surprised) Is something happening in Naobi?
Serza: Supposedly, the Azure is inside this city somewhere, a boy my age with silver hair with red accents and two-toned eyes has it. But since that would make him stand out, I'd put a bet on his new friends hiding his appearance.
Arcius: (Confidently) I'd bet on it.
Suddenly he looks at the gate they took to get on the elevator and strokes his chin.
Arcius: Maybe those guys were the ones. You did feel something, right?
After a few seconds of pondering Arcius shrugs and sighs.
Arcius: Nah, couldn't be them. They didn't seem like the types to hide a wanted criminal, just taking teens back to their houses.
Serza: Well, I did feel something, but it was muddied by some kind of interference so it threw me off.
Serza looks over to the military sector behind them.
Serza: Well, we know they're not going to come through these gates.
NOS Soldier A: We can assure you, nothing suspicious comes from these gates, sir.
Serza: I believe it. But if I was trying to escape the most fortified Cities this world has seen I would do so from the inside.
Arcius: I don't know. I didn't really feel anything, but if you have a hunch about it, maybe we should find them.
Serza: Couldn’t hurt to follow… Faulhier and Rythrean are already in the residential district as well guarding the main gates.
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Area: Naobi 
Mid level, Residential District of Kanpeki
The group reaches the main gate at the residential areas after taking the long elevator ride down. While it’s much smaller than the previous area, most of it seems like it’s only there as a requirement for cities to house civilians, buildings are lavish but few and far between with every possible thing a mind could think of being offered in this one section of the massive city. The streets are lit up, and the monoliths are used to decorate the center of the square. All of the movement and light bothers Nex who puts his hand over his face with a look of discomfort.
Nex: Ugh, what’s with this place?
Imyo: He gives people what they need to handle themselves so he never has to deal with civilians. This is a slice of paradise to most.. to live in Naobi costs a fortune. Most of it is military personnel too, and they’re treated like kings here.
Locke: Yeah, even the garrisons are great here. The only thing better than housing in Naobi is Okoto's high-end districts. There you can get a slice of paradise for yourself, but this ain't bad. If I had more money, I'd buy some property here and rent it out.
Spence: Maybe we should do that after we get our retirement bonus.
Locke: Wouldn't hurt.
Cerea's feet glide across the ground as she turns every which way and looks at the area with interest. She's only lived in a middle-class district, so this view excites her.
Cerea: Man, this sure is something. If this city wasn't a military base, I'd buy some property here as well.
Locke: Entertainment is kind of limited here, since the Marshal likes to keep everyone in an iron grip, but you can find everything you want if you know where to look for it.
Imyo: (Sighs) Hardly anyone can afford Okoto... that may as well be Elysium in comparison to every part of the world. Lukain could easily live there, but he prefers what he’s built to anything else. These twin fortresses have been close more than a few times to becoming sovereign Cities.
Nex: It’s all too much, I wouldn't be able to stand living in this place...
Imyo: Human beings like their luxuries.
Watching groups walk along the streets and everyone moving in and out of buildings makes it difficult to discern anything in the busy mass of bodies. Frustrated, Imyo huffs.
Imyo: Although there’s so much going on right now, yet all we need to find is one military facility with a transporter in all of this cacophony. Locke: Yeah... alright, let's keep an eye out for something that may be suitable.
As Locke and the others spread out a bit to look for a facility, Cerea and Nex stay with Imyo under a street light.
Cerea: You know... you'd like Iwatsuchi. It has some quieter places, like the district where my grandpa lives. He's not a guy who likes noise and what not. (Looks at Imyo) I heard you and him clashed once during the Third War, but he didn't get much into details.
Imyo: I do recall meeting him in the War, believe we were enemies at the time…
Nex looks around and spots a simulated towering display of a peaceful-looking place with a serene field and azure skies. He becomes nostalgic, longing for it, recalling the time he spent with the girl who gave him his locket.
Cerea: Yeah, and you had to fight, but he had no hard feelings towards you. "War is war", he said, "we don't really pick sides we're on".
Imyo: War is a time when the sides are blurred. Enemies can instantly become allies, and vice versa. I held nothing against him for fighting us. Was more of a human being than some of the people I worked with back then, that’s for sure.
When he finishes speaking, he looks to see Nex staring at the display.
Imyo: Thinking about a peaceful place, huh Nex? It’ll be awhile before something like it can be obtained. (Closes his eyes) I wonder if there’ll be another war soon... one you kids have to participate in. I hope not, but I can’t say the last one ended in a definitive way that was in our world’s favor.
Cerea: Yeah... no one really won. It just... ended. People on both sides lost many, and it was something no one is really proud of... except the Marshal, I guess. He became the big boss around here, and his authority is undisputed.
Imyo: I’m not positive it ended the way he would have liked... but that’s only speculation on my part based on what I saw him participating in.
Nex keeps staring at the display. The mental image in his mind decays, turning into a wasteland, and his gaze is cast downward after this with a hum of sorrow. Imyo notices the young male’s frown of longing, his ears flick once.
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Area: Naobi 
Before the Main Gate to Naobi
Faulhier: Think they'll be here?
Faulhier remarks while surveying the area half-heartedly. Nothing of interest appears to be going on, soldiers patrol the area near the gate by a military facility. Just behind him is Rythrean who scans the area for any sign of intruders.
Rythrean: If they’re attempting to escape…the main gate is one of their only viable options.
Faulhier turns and looks at the fortified entry to Naobi, scoffing at the idea of anyone getting through it.
Faulhier: So this Naobi, Marshal really went all out, huh... what’s it like being here for you, Rythrean?
There's a few seconds of silence, the rose-eyed woman gives a dubious stare to Faulhier.
Rythrean: Are you asking me a serious question?
The male returns her stare with one of his own, lazily throwing his arm out.
Faulhier: C’mon, I’m bored, half asleep... you know my deal if Cresil is inactive for too long. So if you want me to perform at my best, keep me awake. Talk to me. You're like the most silent out of all of us...
Rythrean: Fine, I'll indulge you if you're that lonely... (Looks at the higher city) It is a City I hold great respect toward, but personally I have no connection to it. I was brought here after my defeat in the War.
Faulhier: Ah yeah, you’re the oldest out of us, aren’t you?
He feels a sharp glare from his fellow Destroyer.
Rythrean: Say that again, and I’ll rip your tongue out.
Raising his hands up, Faulhier quickly responds.
Faulhier: What? I didn’t mean it in a bad way... I meant you’re kind of the most experienced here. You were in the War.
Rythrean: (Sighs, folding her arms) That’s nothing special. Ophius is from the War as well. Maybe in a way all of us are.
Faulhier: (Confused) Hmm?
Rythrean: Our weapons were designed to replicate those in the Third War. And they’re part of us now.
She closes her eyes, choosing her next words cautiously.
Rythrean: Don't you wonder about the history behind it all? How we got where we are now?
Sitting on a formation of metal by the building, Faulhier ponders over the question for a few seconds. Taking Cresil out, he taps the edge of it on the surface.
Faulhier: Ehmm... Nah. (Shrugs) Not really... Arcius seems fine with the way things are. And Serza... well, I can never tell what that guy is thinking. But we’re doing something in the world at least, keeping it from going to utter hell. (Doubts himself for a second) Supposedly. So... that isn’t so bad. (Spins his weapon) Not a lot of things to worry about in terms of threats either.
Rythrean: Is that so...aren’t you the least bit curious about the reality of this world, and your role in it? What your fate may be?
Faulhier: (Flatly) Nope. No reason to be.
He notices Rythrean's disappointed look following the response.
Faulhier: I mean, you’re a Prime Field so you’re probably more aware of that kind of thing, and I get that, I do. I even understand looking down on humanity, thinking you know better, hate being involved in their silly hopes and dreams... but I’m a shell of a human being now, you know? Just don't see the point in caring about all that intense stuff...
Rythrean: I see. I’ll respect that. You all don’t bother me... that’s why I’m curious to how you all feel toward our positions as Destroyers.
Faulhier: Well, you’d be wasting your time on asking me, Cerise Reaper. I’m the Crimson Ripper, that's what I'll fight and eventually die as.
Rythrean looks over and spots three civilians moving around the area, looking at the building for something. They don’t spend more than a few seconds scouting around it before turning back around and heading toward the residential area.
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Area: Naobi 
Residential District of Kanpeki
After a few moments, Imyo spots the others coming toward them.
Imyo: There they are, hope they found something for us.
Locke: (Sighs) We do have something, but we gotta work for it. Should be able to hack a transporter nearby, but we also need an ID.
Imyo: Nice work, Locke.
Led to the military facility near the main gate, Imyo and the others keep their distance. There are a few soldiers patrolling the small building's perimeter.
Imyo: Hm... alright. I'll grab a key card from one of them. It'll be too suspicious for all six of us to try this. (Looks at Nex) Nex, you stay here with the others.
A frown of anxiety appears over his face as Nex watches Imyo start moving away, but he stays with the others reluctantly. Seeing his unease, Locke and the other mercenaries try to calm his nerves.
Locke: Chill, Nex. Imyo is the stealthiest of us all... unless you want Spence to go in there.
This is said in a joking tone, but Spence soon speaks up in his own defense with a hearty tone.
Spence: Hey, I'm actually a good pickpocket. Not many people would suspect a guy my size to be skilled at snatching things.
Locke: Yeah, appearances can be deceiving. Switch, you working on a quickhack?
Switch: Yeah, already logged into the system. Ready to employ the hack whenever you're ready.
Satisfied with the response, Locke gives a nod of approval.
Locke: Good. This will be easy as pie.
Taking note of Nex's anxiety, Cerea cautiously moves in closer to calm him down.
Cerea: Hey, we're gonna be alright. We'll get out of this city, then the path is clear. Put some trust in us, okay?
Looking at her once, Nex remains restless even as Cerea tries to calm him down.
Imyo skillfully sneaks around with his feline form, staying out of sight and perching himself on the lighted towers in the field. But just as he begins to set his sights on one of the soldiers below, a voice echoes in the city levels.
Akuhei: (Offscreen) Hello, citizens of Naobi, this is your General speaking on behalf of your Marshal. Don't be alarmed if you see our Destroyers in your city... we currently have a bit of a infestation of pests. Along with a very dangerous child...
In this instant, Nex panics, growling in unease, looking around for the source of the familiar voice.
Nex: That snake… he's here?! He's going to do it again--!
Speaking to no one in particular, the silver-haired male rushes away toward the source of the noise. Moving his large body, Spence tries to cut him off to grab him, but he's too slow and the rebel gets by easily.
Spence: Slippery little--!
Locke: (Urgently) Cerea, after him! Don't let him get away!
Cerea: Why me, Locke?
Locke: Because you're the fastest one here. Go, we'll wait for you here.
Cerea gives a quick shrug and a sigh before turning around and rushing after Nex, trying to catch up to him.
An uneasy Nex rushes through the streets, trying to find where the sound is coming from but he sees no sign of the snake. Hearing the voice once more makes him go on edge.
Akuhei: (Voice only) This child in question was under the care of Marshal before being aided by a group of... mercenaries, a feline is their leader. We're currently trying to contain that child, and they're located somewhere in the Exalted Cities of the Marshal.
Displays of the six individuals from the system’s records show up on the screen briefly.
Akuhei: (Voice only) If you see them, report them to your nearest branch-owned facility or a Sequence Destroyer.
Nex keeps moving through the streets until he finds a crowd of people who are gathering around one of the large displays. And with a squint, he pushes his way through them, looking up, and the teenager realizes it’s a broadcast from Iwasu. The General addresses the people with a chilling smile.
Citizen A: Naobi was infiltrated? Those rotten mercenaries...
Citizen B: We need to find them, run them out of here so they can be executed! How dare they disrupt our lives! Bring turmoil to our perfect City!
The people become a vocal, unhappy mass. Nex seems to groan as he feels their aggressive and hateful energy but he quickly looks around, realizing he’s become lost among this crowd, and that he’s run far away from Imyo and the others.
While trying to find Nex, Cerea goes toward the crowd and also sees the broadcast.
Cerea: (To herself) A damn broadcast? Is that what got him so rattled?
She gracefully maneuvers through the crowd and finds Nex among them, touching him on the shoulder.
Cerea: Hey, c'mon, we gotta go back. We can't get distracted here.
Feeling her hand brush his shoulder, Nex flinches, growls in alarm and looks over at Cerea, still in a fit of unease. His two-toned eyes display immense discomfort.
Akuhei: (Offscreen) Failure to take action or withholding information about these criminals will lead to a personal chat with myself. And by chat, I of course mean this...
The screen shifts to show a prisoner in a LS uniform within some kind of cellblock in Iwasu. A serpentine head is snapping down on their neck, emerald chains of energy constricts them, and slowly drains their life. The imprints of tainted emerald-colored energy invade their skin that is infected and they slowly become a melding mass of Seithr before the eyes of the civilians. The person releases a wail before that is left as a gargled and indiscernible sound. Nex watches it all with horror in his eyes and before he runs away again.
Akuhei: (Voice only) Are we clear? I hope so... and Azure 0, I know you can hear this-- the longer you make us do this, the worse I'll make it for your new friends. I hope you look forward to it!
The cackle and laughter of that man torments him as he runs off from the crowd and hides in an alley.
From a little way away from the crowd, Serza and Arcius both spot the broadcast as well. When it ends, Serza hums.
Serza: (Shakes his head) General making a statement as usual…
Arcius: Yeah... still creeps me out at times. I prefer a quicker way to kill a man.
Cerea cringes as she sees the death on live broadcast, holding back the desire to hurl before she notices that Nex is missing.
Cerea: (Sighs) God dammit...
She leaves the crowd and takes a few steps forward before taking a look into an alley.
Cerea: (Voice only) Hey... you there, Nex?
Nex doesn’t answer and keeps going through the alley, trying to find a way out of it, his mind is still stricken by the man’s voice and actions. He keeps moving absently until his foot hits some kind of construct. A magic glyph flies around him, blinding him. His Azure responds violently in reaction with it, shattering it without warning. This causes a hole to form where the floor should have been, and before he can react to all this he falls through it with a growl of surprise.
Darkness fills his vision, but in the next moment comes a unpleasant thud and pain spreads across his torso with a throttled gasp escaping him. Then a soft glow of some kind of light fills his eyes. Feeling grass tickle him, the dazed Nex watches an alluring teal light move through the ground. Small crystals sprout around the secluded area.
Hearing the noise, a girl gets up to her feet and rushes over to the collapsed Nex, looking over him.
Yellow-eyed girl: Um, are you alright?
The girl in question has a voice that is soft and kind, and bright yellow eyes with blue centers look at him in concern, her hair is a soft shade of periwinkle blue and she wears a civilian outfit.
Nex: ...Ungh.
He registers the girl's full figure and appearance, and a strange feeling sets in, disbelief filling his eyes when he recognizes her.
Nex: Nozomi...?
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End of A Perilous Paradise
Continues in: A Concealed Light
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Category:EvoBlaze
Category:Rebellion Sequence Transcript