EvoBlaze: Control Sequence/V2E7: Outlier's Credence (Kiryos and Sylar)/Transcript

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Cold Feet
 
Area: The 13th Hierarchical City of Kagutsuchi 
Lower Levels, outside of the NOS Outpost
A panting Myri runs through grass and into the thicket overgrown on the declining slope outside of the outpost, she hurries after Kiryos, trying to catch up to him, but the Major is nowhere to be found.
Myri: Kiryos? Kiryos, where did you go…?
Her pants increase and her exhaustion from earlier exertion of that strange magic begins to catch up with her. She finds a small rock and sits down on it, letting herself rest for a few moments. Lifting her hand to her face, she turns it and frowns in deep thought.
Myri: That took a lot out of me. What was that…? Those strange crystals, why did I react to them? And Kiryos... he would have died... that strange malevolent force gripping his mind, plunging him into those kinds of thoughts... I’ve never experienced anything like this. I don’t think Nex knew either…
Out of her sight, particles of scourge pool together and move around, slowly inching closer to the rock. Feeling a chill up her spine, Myri looks around the clearing, but there’s no one in sight.
Myri: ...Kiryos?
This brief confusion is replaced by alarm, Myri gasping as a shadowy being darts in at her and moves its inky limb with talons forming on a spherical blob of a hand. Closing her eyes in fear, she pulls away but never feels the claws reach her.
Dropping down from the tree, Kiryos agilely swings the blades backward into the Seithr Being’s pitch form and impales the crystal embedded in its head, causing it to get flooded with a frigid energy that spreads throughout its body. After a few more seconds, it forces the being to retreat with a hiss as it dives back into a puddle of liquid and scurries away.
Kiryos: Are you alright, Myri?
Myri: (Opens her eyes and frowns) I’m fine now... thank you.
Kiryos: It’s dangerous, why did you follow me?
Myri: ...Are you okay?
Kiryos: I am fine, I remembered their weakness.
Myri: (Frowns and shakes her head dissatisfied) That’s not what I meant... I meant, are you okay? Mentally. What you did back there…
The concerned gaze of the girl remains on him for several seconds, but he remains silent before looking to the side and spotting more blackness moving around. This sight causes him to frown and reach to the girl.
Kiryos: (In urgency) We can’t stay here, something is attracting them.
Myri: (Confused) W-wait, what about Nex--he said he’d be back--
She doesn’t get to finish as Kiryos takes her hand and leads her further down through the thicket, letting the shadows move around past them.
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Primordial Awakenings: Episode 7
-Outlier's Credence-
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Gestures of Adversity
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
High Levels District "Moete Plaza"
Bustling citizens continue to move about the streets chatting among themselves while a bench is occupied by Reiga, Mysteria and Akari. Structures on the side paths hold a bright blue flame that flickers and they decorate the streets, each separated by artificial rockeries. The glow they cast in the fading daylight attracts many citizen's eyes as they enjoy the sights.
Akari: (Smiles) Such a pretty blue flame... it's like an Azure.
However, Reiga can't appreciate the sights of the higher levels of the city, nervously tapping his fingers against the surface of the bench, the red-haired male finds himself looking around nervously while Mysteria maintains a straight and seated posture and is flipping through the notifications on a device, but her face can't hide an underlying concern either. Just behind Reiga, a confused Akari watches her partner fidget around and hangs over his shoulders.
Akari: (Frowns, looking at him) Reiga, you're moving around an awful lot... it isn't comfortable.
Reiga: Sorry. I can't help it... (looks at the direction of the outpost) it's been over an hour now, and Kiryos hasn't showed back up yet.
Mysteria: (Sighs, troubled) No reports of criminal activity from any of our other units either... it seems like it was an isolated assault on that outpost.
Reiga: What do you think they wanted from there? Wouldn't it be more efficient to try and get one of the bases?
Mysteria: Their actions don't make much sense, no, so there had to be something valuable involved. Maybe the database...
She lifts her head up and watches the people go about their daily lives. Taking in the sighs of people walking in and out of stores, sitting out in the awning and watching the flickering fires contained in the mechanisms decorating the area. But the realization that this could alter in the blink of an eye worries the young woman.
Mysteria: With the city still in recovery from Zaezel and Nex... another attack could send our city spiraling into chaos.
Akari: (Sighs, dejected) It's all so sad...
Reiga: Yeah, this definitely isn't what I wanted to get you involved in, Akari.
Akari: Um, has this kind of thing happened in other cities, Mysteria?
Mysteria: (Shakes her head) Not on this kind of scale, no... certainly, Irregularities have appeared in cities but they’re always quelled rather quickly by the likes of our military. (Groans in frustration) It's always when Nex is around that it gets out of hand.
Akari: (Confused) Why?
Mysteria: I don't know. Destruction follows him everywhere. I just hope we don't see another Yamatsumi...
Akari: Yamatsumi?
Reiga: It happened a few years ago... wasn't it the accident that made Nex a Phase Black Irregularity? You saw him back then, right?
Mysteria: (Grimaces, setting her hand on her sternum) Yes. Yamatsumi's defenses fell, the barriers were destroyed, the city filled with Scourge, the Gate was compromised... it was terrible. He was manic at the time.
She looks at the plaza and pictures a similar result, a vivid detailing of the ruin, scourge that fills the air and people left struggling to survive in the aftermath, some have black veins crawling through their bodies. The fire engulfs the cobblestone paths. She quickly shakes her head to rid herself of this disturbing thought.
Mysteria: (Frowns in refusal) That can't happen again...
Reiga: So that's probably part of why you freaked out when you saw him absorb those objects when we fought the Seithr Beings, huh? You really thought he was going to kill all of us.
Mysteria: I'm afraid of that happening again in this City. Of him ruining everything we've built for society. How hard we've worked to keep people safe from the Scourge and to try and have some semblance of hope in this world that your family and countless others fought for. Reiga, you need to understand that outside of here it's completely different. And the NOS is all that stands between mankind and a cruel, twisted reality. Nex is here to destroy that wall.
Reflecting over her words, Akari slides off Reiga and sits to his right on the edge of the bench. The Prime Field shakes her head once as she responds.
Akari: I don't think he's here to do that... I think he's looking for someone the NOS took away. When I read his memories by accident... that was the feeling I was getting. That feeling hurt so badly...
Mysteria: His memories can't be that reliable. Not when he's getting twisted by that artifact. That girl you saw might not even exist.
Swiftly rubbing his head at a loss, Reiga shrugs with a long sigh.
Reiga: I don't know about any of it. (Firmly as he lifts his head) But I believe wholly that Akari had nothing to do with it. And if he ever tries to hurt her again, I'll defend her to my last--
Akari: (Peaks over and blinks at him curiously) But you lost last time, Reiga.
Groaning at her response, the Lieutenant slumps.
Reiga: (Deflated) Aw, c'mon... way to shoot me down there, Akari. Can't I get a little respect for trying?
Akari: (In realization) Oh, okay! Let me try again. (Breathes in) I'm happy no matter whether you win or lose! Happy just to be with you! Is that better?
A soft laugh comes from Mysteria who watches the two, letting herself smile.
Mysteria: You really have been raising her well, Reiga. It's like she's always been with you.
Reiga: (Nods) She has opened up a lot. I just wish it could happen at a better time...
Mysteria: We have the World Order. It has never fallen, even in humanity’s darkest hours. I firmly believe we’ll get through this.
Reiga: Hope you're right.
He stands up and looks over his shoulder where Kiryos departed for, and his sigh can't hide his anxiety any longer.
Reiga: Hey, Mysteria... I know we're supposed to be looking for the ones causing these problems for the people, but I'm really getting worried about Kiryos.
Mysteria: Well... I suppose we can look in the Outpost ourselves. If it was an isolated incident, then we're technically still following orders, because that was where they were last sighted.
Reiga: (Perks up) You're saying we can go there?
Mysteria: Yes, that's what I'm saying.
Reiga: (Elated) You're a lifesaver. No time to waste then--let's get going, Akari.
He grabs the girl's hand and hurries off to the outpost, Mysteria following behind with a sigh of amusement.
----
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Outside the NOS Outpost
Making his way out of the Outpost, Akuhei pockets his hands and looks around when he comes out in front.
Akuhei: Now what should I do... send in others to find Azure 0 or try to catch up to the Major... one is long term, the other is a problem I can nip in the bud right away.
After pondering over this for a moment, he lifts his eyes to look ahead and notices three figures approaching the outpost. The three spot him as well, leaving Reiga's expression slowly shifting to a frown while he scrunches his brow.
Reiga: General Akuhei… why is he here?
Akari: Reiga, I don’t want to talk to him…
She quickly touches and tugs the cuff of Reiga's sleeve, hiding away behind him.
Reiga: (Looks over to his right at Mysteria) Mysteria, do you mind? I don’t think Akari--
Before he can finish his last words, the General speaks out at the three with a gesture of his hand before walking over to them.
Akuhei: Well, look at that, the Lieutenant and the Prime Field, and even the Lieutenant Colonel too.
Reiga: (Exhales in disappointment) Sir…
Akuhei: You don't seem very enthused to see me, Sorairo.
Reiga: (Lifts his head) ...Is anyone ever enthused to see you?
Unfazed, Akuhei shrugs in acknowledgement and looks over to see Akari shying away behind the red-haired younger male. Feeling his stare, she holds her head away.
Akuhei: Have you been taking good care of her? You haven’t forgotten your mission Lukain left you with, have you, girl?
Akari: (Softly) N-no, sir…
Akuhei: I certainly hope so, after all, with everything escalating, there may end up being a need for you.
Reiga: Hey, what's that mean? And do you know that Nex tried to kill her?
Akuhei: No shit... she's a Prime Field of our system. He hates those (mockingly) system puppets after all.
Reiga: Akari isn't a puppet. And honestly, I was hoping I could send her home.
Akari: Home?
Reiga: Yeah. Back with dad and them. You'd at least be safer.
Akuhei: (Scoffs) Hah... sorry to say, but the Marshal sent you and her here. So unless you feel like challenging him--and by extent me--I'd stick it out.
Reiga: (Frustrated) But why does she need to be involved?
Mysteria: (Softly, in warning) Reiga, calm down.
Akuhei: (Raises his brow) C'mon, Sorairo. You can make a guess, can’t you?
Mysteria: They're suggesting to weaponize Akari...?
Reiga: Why? There hasn’t been a need for weaponized Prime Fields since the Third War. We can stop this without relying on that. Marshal has no reason to force her to use her unit.
Akuhei: If you can, by all means, try. But like I said, things are only going to get worse. In fact, another Prime Field might be in the mix, and they're probably weaponized. We’d be kinda stupid to not use ours, you know?
Reiga: A-another Prime Field? One was smelted outside of the NOS notice?
Akuhei: (Waves his hand and shrugs) Well, there’s nothing concrete... but possibly, yes. They’ll see Akari as an enemy too because of her connection to the system. I hope you’re strong enough to protect her… if it gets to be too much for you two, we’ll have to do things our way, (leans in with a glare) got it?
Taking in this information, Reiga struggles to keep his calm, breathing in deeply.
Reiga: (Shakes his head in disbelief) …So I have to deal with Zaezel, with the Irregularities, with this Prime Field--you actually expect me to do all of--
The sharp tone of the General cuts in right over Reiga.
Akuhei: What? Too much for the Prodigy to handle? (Mockingly as he places his hand against his chest) You should be honored to have so much faith placed in you--but you can go home if you feel like crying to daddy about the pressure. The Brigadier General can take over in your place.
Reiga: (Growls) That’s not even necessary, and I--
Mysteria: (Quickly responds) He understands, sir… (To Reiga, quietly, gesturing to the rockeries) Reiga, go wait over there with Akari, okay?
Still in disagreement, Reiga reaches for Akari's hand, taking it before he quickly moves her and himself away from the General who has a smug look on his face. After they depart, Mysteria openly exhales.
Mysteria: Sir, may I ask why you’re at the Outpost? A squadron contacted me earlier about a disturbance, possibly an attack…
Akuhei: There was... (glances over at the outpost) apparently some Irregularities broke in. The Major took off too, I was just about to go look for him.
Mysteria: So, Kiryos is around here? Then we’ll accompany you--
Akuhei: (Raises his hand) No, no--no. There’s no need. I insist. (Cocks his head with a falsely nervous grin) Azure 0 has been seen in this area, and we wouldn’t want to put our Prodigy and his doll in a bind.
Mysteria: (Disheartened) Nex was here?
Akuhei: Wreaking havoc as usual. I’m here to deal with that. I want to make sure that he didn’t kill the Major or something. As for you, you should be ordering Reiga to continue looking for the Irregularities…
Mysteria: We were, sir. But they were last sighted here.
Akuhei: Well, clearly, they’ve since departed. I’ll let you know what happened with the Major though once I figure it out.
He walks by her, stopping as he recalls something, but he doesn't turn back around to face her.
Akuhei: By the way, the Overseers have a desire to speak to you later, Lt. Colonel.
Mysteria: The... Overseers? Why would they...?
Akuhei: Something to do with the Prodigy. They have some sensitive information regarding him. I don’t think they’re comfortable sharing it with him directly, but you are close to him, and you can keep him in line.
Mysteria: I... I'm not sure I understand. But I will answer their request then, but first, please make sure the Major is alright. It's urgent, sir.
Akuhei: I intend to. I know you’re all very close, so cross your fingers he’s still alive.
When Akuhei leaves the premises, Mysteria returns to Reiga and Akari with a look of concern on her face, uncertain what to make of the information.
Reiga: Hey, did the General know what was going on? Where is Kiryos?
Mysteria: He... got involved with Nex again…
Although the news visibly worries Mysteria, her partner gives a shrug and a sigh while Akari remains quiet, still uneasy from seeing Akuhei.
Reiga: Well, he knows what he's doing.
Mysteria: How can you be so certain? His actions have been questionable as of late.
Reiga: Even so, he’s still our friend, Mysteria. Maybe he doesn’t make the best decisions, but neither do I and you tolerate it from me.
He says the last words with a bit of a playful grin, leaving Mysteria shaking her head at it in exasperation.
Mysteria: That’s completely different, Reiga, and you know it. I just can’t understand why he’s making such rash decisions at a time like this.
Reiga: To be honest, I don’t think Nex would kill him. He let him go the last time, and the only reason he tried to kill Akari was because of his issues with Prime Fields. (Walks by her and turns around, waiting for her) If Akuhei won't let us follow him, then there's no point in staying here. I trust Kiryos to handle himself. So let’s go try to find those Irregularities causing the people trouble. After that’s done, we need to find an alternative solution to this mess, so Akari doesn't get dragged into it.
Mysteria: (Nods in understanding, regaining composure) Alright, let's head to the Residential District of Hibana.
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Melted Sorrows
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Lower Levels
As the two continue to get further away from the outpost, Kiryos feels Myri rip away from him in a huff.
Myri: Okay, I’ve had it--why aren’t you talking?
Shameful silence is all that greets her, leaving her in further frustration.
Myri: You can’t just brush this under the rug, why would you try to do something so awful to yourself?
His eyes are glazed over as he tries to collect his thoughts and regain his focus, and he finally speaks.
Kiryos: You've seen me at my weakest. It's... something I would've never wanted to show you... and yet I was too weak to prevent it.
Myri: What? (Shakes her head in disagreement) No, it was just the crystal... I saw it, Kiryos, it wasn’t your fault. There was no way that you could fight that pressure of that strange force back. Akuhei was trying to manipulate you to get you to take your own life. But that doesn’t mean that those thoughts manifested from nothing.. so please, talk to me--where did it come from?
When the Major’s look doesn’t change from a solemn and disappointed expression, Myri realizes something that makes her frown.
Myri: Please don’t say you actually wanted to hurt yourself...
Kiryos: (Sighs and looks aside) That wouldn't be the first time.
Myri: Wouldn't be the first time? Kiryos, why would you want that?
All liveliness is absent from her tone. Her voice quivers while only sorrowful eyes look at the Major as Myri seems unable to comprehend her friend's logic.
Kiryos: Because... because I've killed. I've tainted myself. My actions are irredeemable.
Myri: So you just want to throw your own life away? I'm sorry, Kiryos, but I don't agree with that at all.
Kiryos: So am I to live with the knowledge that I can never wash my sins away? Am I to suffer under that burden?
Myri: I don't know... when you put it like that it sounds hard. But to leave everyone who cares about you behind, to end your own pain, I don't think it will end your suffering at all. I just...
She lowers her head in fear of the thoughts.
Myri: It hurts to even think about... but I feel like your soul wouldn't be at peace. Like there's something even worse... so... it scared me when you did that. I don't want to lose a friend to something horrible like that...
Kiryos: (Sighs) It's hard... to tell anyone about your insecurities. I'm not even sure if I should've told you this.
Myri: Please don't withdraw. I just don’t want you to throw your life away. Even if you don’t value it yet, other people do...
Kiryos looks at Myri and lifts his head slightly.
Kiryos: Perhaps... perhaps they do.
He approaches her and awkwardly averts his gaze.
Kiryos: I've only spoken about this only to the people I hold dearest to me... yet you managed to make me open up. It is a gift...
Myri: A gift? Well... if I could help, that's good enough for me. Just... don't do that again, okay?
Solemn worry still hangs in her voice, as she raises her head back up.
Kiryos: I promise I won't.
Once Kiryos says those words, he expects the girl to perk up, but she doesn’t, to his surprise.
Myri: It's just, when I think about something like it happening... it’s all too familiar. The suffering, desires leading toward despair and hatred, sins too much to bear... and it hurts to even think about it--it hurts like it was happening to people I cared about. It just hurts...
Her hand spreads near her collar, pressing it tighter as though she were in pain.
Myri: There’s this sudden guilt that pierces my soul, and that’s why... I can’t bare to see someone collapse under the weight of those things. I’m so scared of what will happen if it does. And the worst thing is I just don’t know why my mind becomes so fixated when this occurs. I never even left Kagutsuchi, Lazarith has always protected me so... why?
Fright coats her voice alongside uncertainty. There is no smile on her face, her eyes are almost watery, but hidden in strands of her hair. Kiryos frowns, this sudden burst of sorrow in her is surprising to him. It seems like his own experience might have triggered something inside the girl. When she realizes she had an emotional upset, Myri exhales and lifts her gaze, quietly replying in apology.
Myri: Ah, I’m sorry. This wasn't supposed to go this way... I got too caught up in these awful thoughts and broke down...
Kiryos looks at his hand and exhales. He touches Myri's face, stroking it gently and brushes her hair off her eyes.'
Kiryos: It doesn't suit a lady to think of grim matters.
Strange warmth pierces his hand as the young man feels the softness of Myri's skin with his fingertips.
Kiryos: My mother told me of you... or your power. Today I've seen what you're capable of... such power can change the world. Such power can... can save people like me from the darkness.
Myri: Thank you... Kiryos.
Her surprised expression fades back into a somber smile and she nods.
Myri: I hope I can learn how to help our world... to show Nex and anyone else who tries to harm it that there's something worth salvaging...
Akuhei: (Voice only) How pathetically naive. Then again, I’m not surprised in the least... but all your desire is going to do is get others closer to that suffering. Sometimes it really is better to just stop and realize when shit is fucked beyond repair, y’know.
Myri and Kiryos both look over, the girl frowns and steps back when Akuhei walks toward them. With no sign of Nex her frown returns.
Akuhei: Oh, but I would be lying if I didn’t mention that power of yours being interesting. It’s just hilarious to think you believe it can be used for anything remotely good at this point, or that someone like you can suppress the thoughts that come with it... but well, maybe the Vampire is just that desperate for a chance.
Myri: Akuhei... what happened to Nex? What’d you do with him?
Akuhei: Azure 0? He gave up. You made him so damn weak that it took nothing at all to deal with him. You should have seen it. Soon he’ll be enjoying a lifetime of suffering... all thanks to you. Want to join?
Myri: (Eyes widen and she frowns in disagreement, shaking her head) You’re lying. He said he’d be back...
Akuhei: Am I? It wouldn’t be the first time he couldn’t keep his word, just ask his psychopathic friend.
He walks over to them, circling the two and leaning in with a sneer.
Akuhei: They always get the worst: Death, mental damage, horrible dismemberment, loss of identity, turned into a shiny new toy for someone--well, you get the idea. So I can only imagine what fate awaits you, girl.
Kiryos: Leave her be... if you need to torment anyone, I'll suffice.
Akuhei: Torment? I think that's the least of what someone like you deserves, Major, after your failure to bother in securing either the girl or Azure 0. The Council's orders are to return that girl.
Myri: The Council? Am... am I really causing that much trouble?
Akuhei: Yes. Now, then, Major, stand aside and I won't hurt you. Much.
Kiryos frowns while keeping his eyes on the General who moves around them, his thoughts become conflicted as the decision weighs on his mind.
Myri: Kiryos, it's fine. I don't want you to get hurt...
Akuhei: I can wait... this tension is delicious.
----
Volatile Soul
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Outside of Residential District "Hibana"
In place of a hand, a claw brushes against and touches the floor letting off a few sparks in the area. An amount of seconds pass until the squatting Sylar groans and sighs in annoyance when he receives no signals.
Sylar: No sign of the hellspawn here either... where is he going? Is he heading to the research district? That's risky, even for a thing like him.
People move around the area while he stays a fair distance away scoping the clearing for any kind of sign of the Seithr Beings or Zaezel.
Sylar: This sure would be a lot easier--if a certain someone actually gave a shit about all this!
Standing up, he throws out his arms and complains openly before recalling some distant memories of traveling with Nex and others who accompanied them and then sighs in resignation as he rubs his face with his claw once.
Sylar: Whatever. I don't need him to figure this out. Never needed anyone. Flying solo is what I do best.
Male voice: (Offscreen) So you are here after all. I thought those were just rumors.
Sylar: (Looks over) Huh?
Male Voice: The infamous S-class Phase Red Irregularity "White Demon" himself. Between you and the Destroyer, I’m surprised Kagutsuchi is still standing, given everything I’ve heard about you two.
Walking over to join Sylar from a path entering the residential district, the Demon squints in confusion at the male and looks to the side in thought.
Sylar: (Cocks his head in confession) Yeah, guess we’re pretty infamous, but, uh...who are you?
Malais: I came from Nadir Union, just like you.
Sylar: (Shakes his head once and shrugs) Still not ringing any bells…
Malais: The Crimson Overtakers…
Sylar: The Crimson who--?
Malais: (Sighs and pockets his hand with a frown) That figures. But nevermind... Cal’s group was too far ahead of us for you to remember, I guess. Although, we’re pretty much the top dogs around that place, ever since you left.
Sylar: Good for you…? I never liked it... scenery was always a hellscape, people were always assholes, missions were life and death every day, and the biggest minus: couldn’t stand that I had to have ice cream delivered from the Cities to where I lived--do you know how much that costs? Just to indulge in a simple treat of frozen heaven?
Malais: ...No, I don’t.
Sylar: Okay, (claws at his body dramatically) think of being flayed and your nails are being torn off your hands one by one--(gestures at him with an index digit) times that by one thousand. And you will understand the pain.
Malais: (Shakes his head at a loss) ...Do you ever take anything seriously?
Sylar: Be glad I'm not. And if you’re here to chat up the good old days of me being part of Nadir, (points forward) then you can turn around and keep walking, because I have nothing to say. (Squints and leans his head in) To you, or to Cal.
Malais: You really live up to your reputation, you’re a S-class asshole. Really take over conversations, don’t you?
Sylar: (Smiles mirthlessly) Only ones I find incredibly boring.
Malais: You know, what ever happened to the people who traveled with you?
Just as those words come out of his mouth, he's met with a dark glare from Sylar.
Malais: Just saying, I heard you were once in a pretty big group. And those actions you made with them have caused you to become infamous in Nadir. Not all for good reasons either. People don’t just get to walk out, you know?
Sylar: (Shrugs with indifference) Well, I did. So what, you’re saying the ones in charge put a hit on me or somethin'?
Malais: Not yet. But it could happen.
Sylar: Well, thanks for the warning, but I really don’t care.
With those words he walks toward the Hibana district, walking by Malais on the sidewalk. He looks over at Sylar who begins to head into the crowd of people, but stops as he hears him.
Malais: Didn’t think you would. But you might care about the information we can share about the beings like Zaezel who recently showed up.
Sylar: (Looks over his shoulder) Yeah, can say I have a few questions about them. But mostly I just want to send him back into the hole he crawled out of.
Malais: A man called a Demon fighting the Seithr Irregularities…
Sylar: (Glares) Something funny about that?
Malais: If I’m honest, yeah. But--
While they have their conversation, the NOS members make their way through the district as well, and Sylar groans in annoyance when he spots them coming nearby through the crowds.
Sylar: (Sarcasm, annoyed) Oh, great...
Mysteria: They couldn't have gone too far...
Reiga: Hey, what's Sylar doing over there? Who is he talking to?
Malais: More of the NOS peons on our trail… I guess our casual conversation will end there. But if you want to talk further, I'm sure you can get a way to find me.
Sylar: (Growls) Hey, if you bolt now, you’re gonna make me look like I have somethin’ to hide!
Malais: That is the criminal way of life, you’d know that. Some advice you probably don't care about--I wouldn't hang around Hibana for too long.
Just as Malais disappears into the crowd and avoids the NOS by splitting down to another path, Sylar chases after him but loses him in the shuffle looking around quickly.
Sylar: Get back here you--
From behind, Reiga, Mysteria and Akari approach him, and upon realizing it, the criminal groans.
Reiga: Okay, who were you talking to?
Sylar: You would associate me with this regardless, so it’s none of your concern, kid, hit the road and bother someone else. Not in the mood to deal with your Order’s bullshit.
Feeling disrespected by the Demon, Reiga clicks his tongue and nearly spits a response, but Mysteria extends her arm over his chest and shakes her head.
Mysteria: We’re looking for the Irregularities who caused trouble in an outpost. They’re from Nadir, isn’t that in the region you come from? If you know something, I ask you to tell us.
Sylar: Devil be damned... am I seriously this unlucky? (Begrudgingly turns around to face them) Listen, guys, I don’t know. I have no connection to Nadir anymore. I haven’t for years. They’re the ones who are so freaking clingy and can’t get over the fact I just wanted to move on with my life. And that’s all I want to do. And if you keep bothering me, (lifts his right hand) I’m going to put this claw right through Lieutenant Air Head’s skull.
Reiga: (Clicks his tongue) So I'm Lieutenant Air Head now...?
Frowning at the Demon's explanation, Mysteria rests her hand on her jaw in contemplation.
Mysteria: But we can’t be sure you’re telling the truth, you both worked within that criminal agency.
Lifting his head and sighing loudly, the criminal breathes in, rubbing his eyes. Summoning his weapon, he spins it once and then points it forward, drawing the attention of the people in the area. The playfulness in the man’s voice vanishes as he glares with ferocity and grinds his tone.
Sylar: You just had to make this a scene you god damn order-preaching pricks. Now I’m gonna leave you a stain on the concrete, and you have no one to blame but yourselves--that’s what you deserve for your accusational bullshit.
Mysteria: Hold on--
Scowling in response, Reiga draws his blades in a flash of blue light as they materialize, and his eyes narrow to a squint while he stays in front of Akari.
Reiga: Not today. I need to stop those people, Akari’s well-being is at stake. If you feel like being an ass as usual instead of being cooperative, then fine. We’ll do it the hard way.
Sylar: (Scoffs with a squint) Pff! Your funeral then.
He activates his Drive and generates a flurry of scourge around himself that ignites into squirming veins of black energy and a sparking field spreads in the area. Akari gasps in alarm and looks around with wide eyes of concern.
Akari: Reiga, be careful, he’s generating the Seithr Scourge…
Reiga: (Looks around in surprise) He is... how? He’s going to hurt these people... Sylar, knock it off, you’re taking it too far. Don’t hurt others just to get to us.
In an instant, Reiga's concern goes toward the people who begin to panic as the substance drifts through the air, crackling with a high pitched noise.
Sylar: Hell no! You asked for it, now you’re gonna deal with it! I don’t care who gets hurt in the process!
Gathering the particles in his hand which condense into a spherical shape of sparking darkness he throws the ball of lightning forward. It crashes into the clearing and launches bolts in several directions, Mysteria rushes over and flourishes her weapon, destroying the bolts with a spear.
Mysteria: (Yells at the people) Get away from here, all of you!
Reiga: Dammit, stop that!
Running in, the red-haired Lieutenant jumps at Sylar and brings the blades down. They collide against Apolloexon which guards against it before the Demon whips it to the side and brings his talons into an uppercut that rends the air directly in front of him, creating a rending streak of lightning that he quickly drops down from with Apolloexon in a slam to dunk Reiga against the concrete.
Mysteria: Reiga--!
Sylar reacts and dodges Mysteria's flurry of quick thrusting strikes toward him, before with a growl he knocks the weapon out of her hands using his own.
Sylar: Don't bore me with your toy stick.
Right before he continues the assault he feels a forcible flurry of golden winds toss him into the side of the building nearby. Dazed, he peels off, only to get thrown into a street light by another gust beneath him and falls to the floor with a groan, holding his head in confusion before a bunch of debris gets tossed at him by another gale which collides into him and leaves him dizzy as his murderous focus slips.
Sylar: (Lifts his claws and makes a crossing motion) Hey, time out! Time out! What the hell is--
A final piece of metal hits him right in the head from behind, knocking him face down on the concrete. A gust of wind followed by golden and crimson roses swirls around and soon Sylar vanishes from the streets.
A baffled Mysteria blinks and picks her weapon up, looking around the area, but finds no sign of an intruder.
Mysteria: Was... was that intervention?
Reiga: (Offscreen) Ungh…
Akari: (Hurries over to him, lowering to his side) Reiga, are you okay?
After a few seconds, he pulls himself up to his knee and sits on the ground, sighing while holding his right arm.
Reiga: Yeah, I’m fine, just a little banged up--as usual... are the people alright?
Akari: Mhm. (Looks in the air) The Scourge is going away now that Sylar left…
Reiga: I guess that’s why he’s called a Demon.
----
Sylar: Agh... I got my ass kicked by magical wind. Couldn’t she have just moved me politely? Although, guess I did get a bit unruly there…
With a scowl of disappointment, he looks at his weapon which sparks with faint crimson energy that cracks through the surface but it soon fades away.
Sylar: (Rubs his temple) Tch, I know better than that too.
He stands up and feels a breeze from behind him, and in front of him is the outpost, a passage leading into the thicket underneath the establishment.
Sylar: You want me here, huh? Fine, I’ll play your game…
He walks off toward the declining path, with Legna appearing on a pillar in the distance watching with a sigh of disapproval, folding her arms with a frown of concern.
Legna: More damaged than I thought... the first of many.
----
Perils of Freedom
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Lower Levels
Akuhei: Alright, I’m getting dangerously close to bored now… make a decision, Major. Before I do this by force.
Taking a deep breath, the Major settles his turbulent thoughts, a resolve becoming clear in his mind.
Kiryos: I will not let you take her...
Myri: (Surprised) Kiryos... no, you shouldn't do…
Akuhei: Ah? Did I hear you right? You are aware of what disobedience implies, right?
Kiryos: I will do it. I will walk the path of a deserter, accepting of its consequences.
Akuhei: You... walk out?
Akuhei stares and squints at Kiryos, registering his words until he breaks out into a cackle.
Akuhei: Ah... hahahahaa! Ohh... that’s too damn perfect! You can’t make this shit up! So it finally comes to that! You quit. Won't your friends and family just be so heartbroken to hear you've become a traitor... all the pain you'll put them through, their sheer disappointment in failing to live up to the legacy your were born into! You really are just worthless shit, aren't you? What a horrible person you are! Khehaa!
Kiryos: (Sarcasm) So should I kill myself over it?
Akuhei: Kill yourself? Oh yeah, thanks to Azure 0 and that girl, that didn't quite work out. But you know what? It doesn't matter. I don't really care what you do, and now that you're a traitor...
Leviathan coils around and launches from underneath the young man, trapping him in its snare as the blades on its serpentine chain dig into his flesh suddenly. While Myri gasps in worry, Akuhei's tone drops and his eyes narrow with a sadistic excitement, showing the serpentine irises.
Akuhei: I can end you myself.
Myri: (Worried) Let him go...!
Akuhei: Why? I knew this would happen from day one. Were it left up to me, he would be dead.
Kiryos tries to encase his body in ice, but the blades shatter the ice with ease and bore even deeper into his flesh.
Akuhei: But instead, they wanted to bother with trying to make him obedient to our Order. Look how well that's worked out!
A darkness shrouds the blades, as some of them leave imprints of green veins while sinking deeper, the chains tightening with crushing pressure.
Akuhei: Oh right... .those assassins trained you to handle pain. Let's see how you handle Leviathan's power though. Should be fun to see how long you last... heheh, oh how I love watching miserable people like you squirm.
A shivering Myri is pulled away by Akuhei's hand, where he grabs her jaw and points her head forward to the scene. He lowers and gives a hiss near her ear in a sinister whisper through his teeth, and trembling in his presence, Myri shuts her eyes.
Akuhei: Take it in, girl. This is only the first of many examples, as you experience the world you love so much. You'll see what people truly desire... as they all get devoured by a suffering you’ll cause and allow to drain their souls completely.
The whispers start ringing again in Kiryos' head, forcing him to lose his focus and give into his pain as he drops to his knees, but no sound comes out of his mouth. Akuhei stands back up and manipulates a serpentine aura, before sending a shadowy snake at Kiryos, further battering his mental state when it bites into him.
Akuhei: I'll be sure to send your mother down to join you real soon. And your friend Reiga, he'll be taken care of, rest assured! So let it out, scream, let the world hear your wretched prayers! No one will answer, KheeehahahahaHAHAHAHAA!!
Another snake strikes following the General's mad laughter. Kiryos can't withstand the pain from it as it surges through his body, the darkness creeping in on him. Myri tries to get herself to open her eyes, but each strike she can't will herself to and she whimpers in fear, keeping her eyes shut. She feels no power in her body, as it doesn't answer her, and brings her to near tears of frustration.
Myri: Kiryos... I'm sorry, I'm worthless in this situation... I couldn't help him, I caused Nex to...
Kiryos: It's not... your fault...
He wails in pain as both his body and mind are being hurt by Akuhei's weapon.
Bracing himself for the end, Kiryos watches the last snake lunging in at him, a hellish screech piercing the air.
But before it can make contact, it collides with a thrown object coated in dark energy, speeding like a bullet, it crackles and then the energy around it bursts, interfering in the path of the serpent and sending electricity around the area which clusters together nearby Leviathan’s chains, though it doesn't appear to damage it at all. Kiryos remains locked in the Exitium's snare, but with Akuhei’s attention drawn away, his life is no longer in total jeopardy.
Across from it all, Akuhei’s confused tone cuts the resulting silence.
Akuhei: The hell?
Soon after this, another person walks through the grass and stops right in the middle from the other side of the courtyard, summoning the rod-like weapon back to him and resting it across his right shoulder.
Myri: Sylar…?
Sylar: Hey, clearly I'm interrupting this psychopath's playtime, but have you--
Akuhei stares at the Demon and his carefree movements, the General’s smile disappearing into a bewildered look only momentarily before raising his brow and looking to the side grinning in annoyance.
Akuhei: What the hell are you doing here?
Sylar: Well, if you let me finish--I would have said. Sorry though, (stops a minute and looks around the area) am I not allowed to be here? Didn’t see any trespassing signs...
Akuhei: (Exhales with a chuckle) Only you would be brazen enough to just barge in. Now what are you doing here? Why would you have any reason to be here?
Sylar puts his eyes on Akuhei again and suddenly gives an impertinent grin in return.
Sylar: I heard they had the greatest cherry ice cream in this City’s higher level shopping district at the plaza. (Shrugs his shoulders) Though I guess I got sidetracked along the way and found myself here instead, interfering with General Gummy Worms himself.
His reply receives a blank stare from the General who promptly rolls his eyes.
Kiryos: Maybe... you'd be kind enough... to get me out of this.
Sylar: (Scoffs in dismissal) What makes you think I’m here for you?
Akuhei: Haphazardly throwing yourself into things that don’t even concern you, one of these days that selfless side is going to cost you more than your pride. But, it's about as much as I’d expect from an unstable and delusional demon.
Sylar: Sorry, stopped caring about the opinions of egotistical maniacs a long time ago… Come on, throw me your best insult, Underworld Worm.
Akuhei: (Squints and shrugs) I could say a lot, but you’re not worth the time.
Sylar: Here I thought you loved that game. It’s a free chance for you to demean me or some shit. That and there’s a lot I wanna say in the form of this spear through your face--given the crap you pulled.
He points Apolloexon forward after spinning it once in display, while lowering it from its resting position. Amusement seeps into Akuhei's tone when he listens to the Demon's words.
Akuhei: (Scrunches his brow in amusement) Is that what this is about? You're still upset over your little band with Azure 0 breaking up? Did you really think you could stop it? I thought I made it clear, I let it continue just so I could tear it apart... and by the time all of you realized it, you could do nothing.
Myri: Sylar... please, help Kiryos! I know you’re a good person, so please!
Akuhei: A good person? Oh yeah, you’re a real good person, responsible for the deaths of thousands in Ibukido, according to our records.
Sylar: (Glares) Okay, asshole, now I really do want to beat the shit out of you.
Akuhei: Cute... kiddie demon wants to play with ideas of vengeance.
Sylar: ...I prefer to call it punishment, because you completely deserve it. Revenge gets twisted way too quickly by people these days.
While Sylar kept Akuhei’s attention on him, some of the spots near the Leviathan begin to spark, and slowly, the build up of electricity from earlier begins to pull the blades out of Kiryos’ skin, though it isn’t strong enough to allow him to move yet, so Kiryos remains still to keep the pain from intensifying further.
Myri manages to slip away from Akuhei when Sylar lunges in, forcing him to let go of her and she scrambles in response to find somewhere safe. She peers from around a stone structure, looking to where Kiryos is as she notices the blades losing their grip on the young man.
Myri: Hang in there, we just need a bit more time looks like…
Kiryos: (Strained) I hope I can get out of this before bleeding out.
Sylar: Let’s see how good General Gummy Worm is without his cheap-ass snake chain.
Akuhei: You know you’ll need the handicap...
The talons of the Demon ignite with a glowing black energy that becomes a strange electricity, at the same time he spins and reaches out with his weapon in a horizontal swing aiming at Akuhei. After dodging the swing with a weaving step, he approaches.
Akuhei: Trying to be the “good friend”, loyal beyond all comparison... of course. it’s all you have beyond being a killer who wants to bring everything into anarchy and sate an appetite for violence.
There's a flash of a clawing-motion of Akuhei's right hand emblazoned by a green aura that becomes a shadowy snake-like afterimage. Quickly, the Demon steps away, and the blow misses him narrowly.
Akuhei: Why don’t you go back to chasing Zaezel so you can feel good about yourself and stop the monster while turning a blind eye to your own situation? Make yourself feel better... like you have a place in all this beyond massacre.
Expression shifting to one of annoyance, Sylar tries to slash with his claw at him, but a strike to his head knocks him right to the ground after his own blow fails to land.
Akuhei: Oh, sorry, did I hit too close to home? Don’t try to outplay me in my own game.
Akuhei notices Sylar's movements and strikes don't utilize the build up of electricity he creates, and he squints momentarily.
Akuhei: Are you really so overconfident to think you don't need your Drive?
Sylar: (Raises his head back up and grins) Nah, not at all. I love it, especially when I can do shit like this with it.
He flicks his talons into a snap, and the electricity built up around Leviathan bursts and forces the Exitium's blades to recoil and drop Kiryos. Sylar's own energy however also vanishes.
Kiryos quickly rolls out of the way and conjures a small ice wall to hide behind. His wounds were still bleeding, so he covers his entire body in a thin layer of ice.
Watching Leviathan break away, Akuhei turns his attention to the spot where Kiryos stays in cover behind the ice. A short chuckle emits from the General.
Akuhei: A distraction, huh? Clever, and congrats on accomplishing jackshit. After all, how does it stop me from spearing him right through the heart with this Exitium?
Sylar: (Groans in exhaustion) I can slow it down...
Akuhei: In your current state? Ehehe, shouldn’t lie to yourself so much. The next time you’re thinking about intervening, Demon, remember just how pointless it’d really goddamn be. These people aren't worth it, and you’ll just get someone killed, anyway.
Sylar’s expression darkens to a cold glare while he remains on guard. To his surprise, Leviathan restores itself to a blade, before Akuhei places it away.
Akuhei: Lucky for you... my time here is up. So, I'll let you get that scrap of karma you need so badly to keep your mind from collapsing. Not like I “needed” to kill him, just was asked to deal with him. So guess I should be thanking you... his suffering can continue, and I have a wonderful idea of how to go about it.
Kiryos looks behind his cover, observing the battlefield.
Akuhei: I had enough fun with breaking your best buddy, it wasn’t much of a challenge, given his weakness appears to be that girl there. 
Sylar: (Scoffs and tilts his head away) Funny, from what I’ve seen, she’s helped him silence that damn Grimoire.
Akuhei: Still, thanks to a chink in his mental armor, he lost quick enough. I hope you all enjoy the result. It’s nothing you haven’t seen, but nothing you can stop this time. I should get back to what I was supposed to be doing... otherwise the rest of the top brass will get pissy...
Akuhei steps away, turning his back to them without concern and walking out of the area. The Demon huffs out through his teeth, spinning Apolloexon a few times and returning it to a resting position as it automatically becomes a rod once more.
Sylar: (Frowns in fatigue) That guy really is an annoying slithering shitpiece.
Myri takes a couple steps forward gingerly, frowning as she stares at the spot where Akuhei had stood moments ago.
Myri: That man... he causes me so much pain, but I don’t know why. I couldn’t even act against him…
Sylar: About what I’d expect... not like you’re used to dealing with a remorseless psychopath. They tend to be real good at hitting the buttons that’ll cripple you if you’re not ready.
Kiryos melts the cover down and limps towards Sylar. While he stopped the bleeding, his injuries still impair his movement.
Kiryos: I owe you my life... if there's something I can do to repay you, just say it.
Sylar: Damn right you should, your little life and death drama there cost me my desert.
Myri: (Sweatdrops and frowns) So you’d choose the ice cream over someone’s life?
Sylar: Usually. (Looks to Kiryos and shrugs) But in all seriousness, you don’t owe me anything. I'm used to not getting anything in return... not like you can make ice cream appear out of thin air.
Kiryos: If you say so...
He reaches into his coat and pulls out a small device that upon activation creates a healing field. The Assassin's wounds start healing rapidly as he keeps his thumb on the button.
Kiryos: It's a quite expensive Ars... but if you can afford it, you don't need to carry stims.
Sylar: Must be nice to have access to healing Ars of that level... I don’t see the citizens ever usin’ it. But given how Akuhei was about to off you, doesn’t seem like you’ll be enjoying the luxuries of the high life much longer.
Myri: (Looks at the healing field, frowning in thought) I suppose in comparison... people protected by the NOS and those who serve them do get better treatment...
Kiryos: For some, it's a gilded cage. You have to do what you're told by the government, you have to obey every rule imposed upon you. You don't get a choice, the government is able to choose for you. Some become quiet gears in a humongous mechanism, others secretly rebel against the norms and regulations. (Turns off the Ars) The system requires you to know your place in this world. Dissidents are not tolerated.
Sylar: Pah. This is why you will never see me serving a government. Freedom is somethin' we have to fight for, it isn't gonna be granted by anyone, certainly not the bastards calling the shots in the Government and the ones pulling their strings.
Myri: I hope Lazarith will be okay...
The Demon moves away slightly, focusing and looking at his claw as a small bit of energy begins to surge along his claw.
Myri: Um... what are you doing, Sylar?
Sylar: (Sighs) So the snake was psyching us out.
Myri: Huh?
Kiryos: I don't exactly understand...
Sylar: He was guilt tripping Myri for no reason.
Myri: (Shakes her head with a frown) But he said that I was why Nex--
Sylar: Nex is fine. If he wasn't, or if he was taken, I would know. I can... track his energy, somewhat. But he's around here, can sense him. I'd guess that Akuhei just wanted a certain reaction from you.
Myri: (Stops in surprise) I...I didn't even know.
Kiryos: I see... I felt some sort of power from Miss Kukiyona. It makes sense that the Marshal values her so much.
Sylar: (Lowers his claw and crosses his arms) I don’t know much about this power people are talking about, but this much is clear: her going back there isn’t such a great idea. Who knows, they might weaponize it or something.
Myri: Lukain did say the power was used during the War against past threats to the world…
Sylar: Imagine by now Lukain has told the rest of them what you can do to Nex's power, which means you’re about to have a lot of unwanted attention.
Myri takes in those words, but sighs in acceptance as she approaches the Demon's side and stares at the pathway where she can glimpse the higher levels. Past all the residential districts, airships moving through the sky, magic sigils scattered along the horizon, the areas looked to be heavily restricted ahead and it would only get harder from here on. Finally, she speaks out.
Myri: That doesn’t matter. I took that chance when I told Lukain that I wouldn’t return, even for Lazarith. The only way I will learn more is to keep trusting that traveling with Nex will shed some light on all this. He knows about my strength, and I want to trust his word.
Kiryos: Are you certain about that? The path ahead is unpredictable, full of suffering and sorrow. Do you really want to take this chance?
Sylar: What else would she do? Go back home and pretend everything is gonna be fine?
Kiryos: (Sighs) You're right... there are no good alternatives.
Myri: (Lowers her head, shaking it once) Even I know it... going back at this point would just make even more problems. Despite Nex's wish to destroy the NOS, I don't want the people in the Government to suffer over my situations. I don't want my power to be misused or to create another situation like the Third War.
Sylar: At least you get that much.
He starts leading them deeper through the passage, trying to pinpoint the energy of his ally.
Myri: I never imagined this, though. (Looks upward at a loss) Lazarith always told me I could one day help change things for the better, all those things he told me, I just never took it seriously... I guess it just goes to show how little I really knew about my life. And now I can't even go and ask about it...
Slightly surprised, Sylar turns his eyes to the girl briefly.
Sylar: So White Wings knew about your purpose, huh? Funny... guy didn't strike me as one to hold secrets, he's so... well, proper and disgustingly law-abiding.
Kiryos: Certain things are not meant to be known. (Strokes his chin) If Lazarith kept silent, he had his reasons... perhaps he did that to protect you from your destiny.
Scrunching his expression at the mention, Sylar frowns in apparent disdain.
Myri: He was adamant about it, about not doing anything I didn't want to, I mean. I think Kiryos is right, he had to have his reasons.
Bobbing his head to the side and rolling his eyes at the idea, Myri perks up upon registering something.
Myri: Wait... Sylar, how do you know about Lazarith?
Sylar: Who--what? Oh, that, uh... you see--
Myri: Because, it's odd you know him, since he only goes out on rare occasion.
Clearly caught off guard, Sylar blinks and rubs his head in seldom-seen hesitation, as though trying to think of something to say.
Sylar: Right, of course. See, people in his position tend to frown on the ones like me who use the Boundary's powers and the Seithr Scourge. So, yeah, we've crossed paths... he, uh... did the usual thing Templar do, try to stop me from becoming a threat to everything around me. We had a scrap, I won of course, and made him leave me alone or I said I'd fry his wings off.
When the Demon finishes, Myri sighs, let down by the answer.
Myri: Oh, is that all? I was hoping you might know more about him, he never told me about his missions.
Sylar: Nope. Sorry, don't know anything about that. I don't pay attention to the Templar... Demons and Angels don't gel. Hell, they recorded one of my (Sarcasm) greatest achievements in Ibukido as a criminal, (Huffs and shrugs it off) them and the SIA.
Myri: Oh... sorry, I didn't mean to bring something bad up. I just thought... since you weren't calling him anything bad, maybe you were on good terms with him.
Sylar: Then you think too much.
Kiryos: (To himself) He doesn't tell the truth... he met Lazarith and my mother in Taoreta, although she didn't let me in on everything that happened there. (Outloud) It sounds like you have problems with all authorities, both LS and NOS.
Sylar: (Flatly) Gee, what gave you that impression...
Myri: But I still don't understand. Lazarith isn't the type to just attack without warning... what did they blame you for?
Frowning with annoyance, Sylar openly sighs and picks up pace, making it difficult for the others to keep up. His tone becomes a bit prickly and harsh.
Sylar: (Looks back to her in a squint) Why don't you stop asking me all these questions. Confront him about it sometime, yeah?
Flinching at his growl, Myri lowers her brow and watches him beginning to pull away as he takes steps ahead.
Myri: Hey, please, don't get upset, I just wanted to learn more about you and why you knew Lazarith, why are you leaving?
Sylar: Devil be damned--you don't need to know about me, I have nothing to do with you. Now I'm gonna find Nex, so I can get back to what I should be doing. You just stay here, don't cause problems, and wait till I come back with him. Cool? Good.
When the Demon leaves to head into the deepest part of the passage, Myri exhales as a frown creeps in while she and Kiryos wait by the thicket faintly glowing from the approaching moonlight touching the leaves.
Myri: Like a lightswitch... he became cold quickly. Maybe I did pry a bit too much.
Kiryos: He has no reasons to trust us at all... he lived in Taoreta, the place where even your best friends can kill you for a couple of platinum dollars.
Myri: Now I feel insensitive for even asking to learn more about him, his life sounds hard. But it was just his story that struck me as odd, because it doesn't sound like Lazarith at all.
Kiryos: I think Sylar didn't tell you the true version of those events. Some things aren't meant to be known, as I've said.
Myri: Maybe. Oh, right, since... you defected, what are you going to do? Maybe you can come with us?
Kiryos: I have nowhere to go... I'd appreciate being in someone's company.
Myri: (Smiles at the idea) We can ask Nex when he comes back, it’ll make the journey more enjoyable, right? Besides, Nex isn’t much of a talker.
Kiryos: You never know what's going to happen. If my path strays away from yours, you don't need to worry about me.
Myri: No, I guess I don't. You can take care of yourself, you're a professional, trained and everything. But it can be a lonely road, I imagine. (Looks at him and gives a warm smile) So just remember you can come by and talk to me anytime you want to, I'm your friend. Just like I told you a couple days ago when we were with Reiga, Mysteria and them.
Kiryos: (Nods) I'll keep that in mind... you're my friend too, Miss Ku-- Myri.
Myri clasps her hands behind her back, nodding in agreement while keeping her smile.
----
Specter's Omen
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Just outside the Abandoned District
Sylar finds himself at the depths of the passage, the thicket has thinned, and Seithr is heavier with some remnants of overflow of Seithr present. The outpost and other paths aren't even visible anymore save for the remnants of a town further down, the Demon looks at his claws once more, watching the darkness inside pulsate intensely.
Sylar: Somewhere around here...
Concentrating, he eventually turns his head to a spot and feels the Seithr in the air is off balance. With a snap, he illuminates the particles turning it into sparks to reveal the collapsed rebel. But before he can do anything, a spririt of a beastkin manifests and glares at him with bristled fur.
Sylar: A cat... cat ghost? What the hell?
Koyoto: Stay away from him, he’s in an unstable state, how did you see through my Magic?
Sylar: Okaaay, not what I was expecting to run into. Well, Nex can explain that to you later, I’m his ally. Believe that or not…
Koyoto: Given his attitude, I wouldn’t say he's the type to make allies.
The beastkin spirit remains on edge, gathering magic his hand, only to fall down once more, leaving Sylar confused and looking down at him, watching Koyoto's image fade in and out.
Sylar: Uh, you okay there, magical cat spirit? You're flickering. Pretty sure that's not normal...
Koyoto: Dammit... I've spent too much... (Lifts his head with a distrusting glare) But you look as though you're a Seithr Demon. How can I know you're not after his Grimoire?
Sylar: (Gives him a blank stare) Ah, one of those types. (Rubs his head) Look... do you know Vamp Princess? She sent me in this direction.
Koyoto: Legna…? I see. (Closes his eyes) Then I suppose I can leave him to you, I need to restore my strength anyway. Just be warned he's not... he's not right. I can't suppress this odd energy of his.
Sylar: (Troubled) Odd energy...? What do you mean, furball?
Koyoto: The snake forced him to absorb a strange core... his Azure is unstable now... something is trying to break loose... it must not. Or Imyo and my work will have been for nothing... we severed his connection, but his Grimoire is trying to rebuild it--
Quickly losing strength, Koyoto disappears into the statue on the floor. Again, this leaves Sylar bewieldered, he tries to say something but the spirit vanishes too soon. His eyes go to Nex on the floor, wounded and unconscious, with the main injury refusing to close and infested with green shadow. Bright veins of crimson and maroon surge through his skin from his hands, and break through the rounded shells, and leaves Sylar frowning in rare alarm.
Sylar: Wait, this energy is from--the hell is going on? What are they hiding in Kagutsuchi? (Shakes his head in exasperation) God damn, Nex, how does this crap always happen to you?
----
End of Outlier's Credence
Continues in: Enforced Ventures
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Category:Control Sequence Transcript