EvoBlaze: Control Sequence/V2E4: Lurking Shadows (Nex and Kiryos)/Transcript

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Area: Confidential Area in the NOS Region 
Archives Remnant
A NOS soldier steps into the large room after an onyx door swings open with a loud creak. As they come into the rather dark chamber, they spot an individual behind their desk looking over some kind of scroll-like devices. Their body doesn't move a single inch when the person steps in.
NOS Soldier: Excuse me, I was asked to deliver this, it’s from the Marshal-- (Confused) are you...?
The person lifts their head from their study, strands of their light purple hair move around, the rest of their body is covered in a uniform that looks like a cloak with intricate designs, and a glowing clip that looks similar to a butterflies wings emits from a gem-like ornament that sits on their wrist when they rest it on their jaw. Their cold magenta eyes stare a hole into the soldier.
???: Bring it here then.
Somewhat nervously, they place the device on the desk and the woman’s hand touches it before pulling it toward herself.
NOS Soldier: Are you a part of that family? I...don't remember seeing you.
The soldier receives an unwelcoming tone from the woman who keeps her eyes on the device that unravels to show a crest and some kind of data.
???: (Without looking at them) An advisor if you must know. I’m not part of the militia.
After looking at the message they stand up and walk over to a database emitting a bright light, placing their hand on it, before looking at what appears to be an archive.
???: It’s been a while since the Marshal has requested something like this of us...I do know where this is, however, and I will pass it to the head of the family. If that's all you have to say, soldier, then you can see yourself out.
Looking around the soldier soon comes to attention and nods in understanding, they seem hasty to leave the room and shut the large alloy doorway behind them.
For a moment, the strange woman looks to where they exit and then she takes the gun out of one of the storage units, its body shimmers with strange patterns, and an ebony pair of wing-like guards wraps along its body, and its front bears three barrels. Afterward, she leaves the archive, returning to her desk as she touches a device on the desk, sending a message out from a glowing digital screen. While waiting for an answer, she looks at the intricate armament while speaking to another individual from the Duodecim.
Anikou: This is Anikou, I advise you to deploy some members to ensure this operation is successful. I will transfer the information to a secure location, make sure the remains of that object are handled with care, and try not to lose it, or our lives are forfeit.
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Primordial Awakenings: Episode 4
-Lurking Shadows-
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An Eye for Conflict
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Outside the NOS Outpost
Nex walks ahead until he looks on at the building nestled ahead of him with a squinting gaze. Moving through one of the corridors of stone and steel that lead toward the building, Nex hears only the whispers of leaves but along with a crisp wind, he feels the sensation of eyes on him once more. Breathing in deeply with a growing frown the rebel's steps come to a stop, while he turns, then presses himself against the wall back-first. Scanning about with his two-toned eyes he points his attention to a shadowy crevice where a vantage point atop stone architecture hides. Scowling at it, he reaches for and takes the hilt of his large sword, pointing its blade in that direction as a gesture of knowing.
A few moments later, the woman makes herself known with a smile as she twirls her gun. 
Valetha: I suppose you're used to looking over your shoulder, aren't you, Beast of Sin?
As soon as he registers the voice with a provocative twist to it, the rebel lowers his sword only slightly with a wary stare. 
Nex: (Sighs and glances away) It's only you again...you know, for a moment I thought you were gone after Sylar chased you off.
Valetha: The insects of that resistance have been chasing me down ever since.
Nex: I've heard.
Valetha: Not that they were any match for Iblisa...the resistance this world puts up is terribly weak. No wonder the Order rules the majority of these poor souls...
She chuckles to herself, but the young man huffs in disinterest and shoots a glare of disapproval.
Valetha: So did you come to this nest of the Order to bring them death?
Nex: (Sharply, interrupting) Why are you here?
Valetha: (Smiles before she becomes serious) Wadatsumi...
Nex returns a look of confusion toward her response.
Valetha: Where something awakened. (Reaches to the sky as though feeling for something) The beautiful light that touched the sky, and spread its ashes through the air… the brief moment it was there, I saw it and it was gone. (Stares back to Nex) The key to the conflict that'll fuel that desire...I have no doubt you’ll locate that object again.
Squinting at her wording, Nex shakes away his brief surprise and scoffs through his teeth while swinging his head away. 
Nex: You’ve been looking into the Boundary too much haven’t you? Completely out of your mind.
Valetha: It is merely what I heard...and you know I'm not. No, no, those crimson embers speak, the darkness that burns eternal consuming everything in its wake, it leads to you, and she’s waiting too...you've heard that call.
Agitated now, Nex gives off a slight growl and straightens himself while his eyes flash hostility.
Nex: Okay, shut the hell up, I don’t have time for your prophetic nonsense, and I have nothin' to do with it. You’re going to draw attention and then I’m gonna be the one who suffers for that.
As she steps along the stone structure, Valetha hums in amusement, setting her weapon by her hip.
Valetha: For once, I didn’t come to cause a conflict. Not with you, anyway.
Nex: There's no place you can connect to the Boundary in this area, so why come to an outpost? Why follow me here?
Valetha: Follow?
Nex: I felt someone watchin' me earlier. That wasn't you?
Valetha: Oh dear Beast, while the carnage you create does fill this ugly husk with a sense of glee... my eye isn't always on you. I have my reasons for coming here.
Nex: (Baffled as he lowers his head) Then who the hell...
Valetha: You draw the eyes of many, for the desires of destruction, and the pleading of pointless hope. Have you thought about listening to these cries resounding from the depths?
Nex: Tch. I'm not interested in that.
He begins to walk once more, and Valetha jumps down to where he previously stood.
Valetha: I didn't believe so ...but where’s that girl who was relying on your protection, anyway? She stands on the opposite side of yours.
Nex: (Flatly) She isn’t here right now.
Valetha: Doesn't it worry you that she could be used against you? Even just a little? Why take that risk when it would be so much easier to just get rid of such a volatile object. (Stares at her weapon) Are you planning something against it? That's a bad choice.
Nex: (Sighs in annoyance as he looks back) I have no intention of letting anything get in my way, what she does is up to her.
After hearing his words, Valetha's expression relaxes, as she raises her arm and points her gun to the outpost.
Valetha: Walk your road how you like. I heard those people in the so-called royal families were planning something big... the threats in Kagutsuchi are only escalating.
Nex: Was only a matter of time.
Valetha: I hope you take care of yourself now, it would be disappointing for the most dangerous person in this world to fall to this order.
Hearing her steps draw away, the man turns around partly.
Valetha: Iblisa senses the coming carnage...the flames of conflict spread and I chase them wherever they form.
Clicking his tongue when she disappears out of the corridor the rebel looks back ahead.
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Shadow of Uncertainty
 
Area: Kagutsuchi 
Outside the Higher Levels
Among the shadow and rubble, Kiryos moves through the area, scanning it with a hint of solemn disappointment. The NOS allowed this. The people he served, let this happen.
A voice cuts the dead air. 
Byakai: (Voice only) Monster caused a mess, him and Nex’s battle. All to create some strange object...I remember seeing odd spheres like the ones that appeared in the Liberation Sector’s notes.
Recognizing the tone, Kiryos turns his attention to where the cat beastkin sits on one of the structures against a wall that still stands, though it’s a bit damaged.
Byakai: Him and those Seithr Beings appearing have caused a bit of panic in the city… at least you decided to stick around. Most of the NOS ran away, so I guess their basic troops can’t do anything to someone like Zaezel.
Kiryos: Someone had a bright idea to send those people to their deaths.
Byakai: Wasn’t that your Marshal and the others in the Council responsible for letting this happen? That… General of yours isn’t even supposed to be out in the field. Technically speaking, your Brigadier should have had command, but instead, this turned into a massacre where hundreds of souls were lost to Zaezel’s scheme.
He closes his eyes, letting out a sigh while his tails twitch.
Byakai: I would hope the LS doesn’t allow the same to happen... I know my father wouldn't have. (Ears droop) Don't get me wrong I don't think highly of the LS, they didn't do anything to help either. Nicaiah or those higher ups...all that concerns them is this War.
Kiryos: Bloodshed... it never changes. To think that we had a Golden Age almost half a century ago... just how did we let it go? A rhetorical question, but a question that still needs to be asked.
Byakai: A Golden Age? I've heard about it... clearly, not everyone agreed with it. But is it that surprising? People never seem satisfied. It began as a good intention, now it's twisted into something else entirely.
Kiryos: Indeed. To think that we had a chance to live in a better world, (Outstretches his arm towards the destroyed parts of the city) free of this madness... something went terribly wrong back then. (Closes his eyes) Still, no one is without guilt in this situation. We all bear our burdens, however we can.
Byakai: Burdens...that's true, and we all have our reasons for being involved in this.
He hops down, landing across from the assassin and places his right paw-sleeve under his muzzle in thought.
Byakai: Speaking of that, why are you here? You were sent to kill me due to my father's actions against the NOS, and because of what he taught me.. .but you decided against it. You really don't seem like most NOS personnel, desiring glory, or enforcing order, or anything like that. You don't even seem to be protecting anything, unlike your friend with the AIP.
Kiryos: Why should I? I was forced into this... because my mother made some sort of a deal. She said it was for my own good, but... sometimes I doubt that.
Byakai: Your path doesn't feel right, I'm guessing. (Looks down momentarily) Not being able to choose your road is the worst feeling...I chose to walk away from the LS, even though my father likely would have wanted me to try and uphold our ideals. I don't know if that was the right choice, but I get some solace that no one decided it for me.
Glancing back to Kiryos, the cat beastkin frowns.
Byakai: Sorry that you weren't afforded the same freedom. There would be a lot of guilt in so much empty killing.
Kiryos looks at his hands briefly and lowers his head.
Kiryos: Sometimes, when I look at my hands, I see them stained with someone's blood. I can't wash away my guilt. (Sighs) To take someone’s life is like losing a part of yourself. A very unpleasant experience, but later you start getting used to it. Killing doesn’t seem to be as horrible as you thought before, but that means that you’ve lost much of your conscience and innocence.
He turns his gaze towards Byakai.
Kiryos: Pleasure or guilt… I feel none of that during the moment I sever the connection between a body and a soul… I feel only sorrow. Sorrow that will never end, because your hands have been stained with blood, and you will never be pure again. But later the realisation of what you have done hits you, sending you tumbling into the depths of misery.
Byakai: It creates regret. Those regrets consume the person or we're somehow able to deal with it and move on. That all seems to be weighing on your mind heavily... are you sure you can continue on a road like this?
Before he can answer the beastkin, people run up to them in a panic, flustered and out of breath.
Person A: That terrorist Zaezel is back, he's come to finish us for certain this time!
Byakai: (Surprised) Hold on, he's already attacking again...? Why? What would he want there?
Person B: We don't know! The troops here, they didn't stand a chance--there isn't anyone to help us right now. Shadowy monsters of Seithr are appearing... Vigilante, Major, please--!
Byakai looks at Kiryos momentarily, as though waiting to see what he'd do.
Kiryos: How many of you are still alive there?
Person A: There's a group of us...we've been trying to use a building as cover while we were sent to get help.
Byakai: The shadowy monsters must be those Seithr Beings that appeared recently... it really is strange they're appearing inside a government-owned city.
Kiryos: (To Byakai) Do you know how to fight them? If you do, we may be able to save some lives today.
Byakai: I know how to battle them, although it isn't exactly an easy task, even with that knowledge on how to destroy them.
Kiryos: Still worth a try.
Byakai: You're right. I guess if we don't do anything then us complaining about the NOS and LS not taking action would make us hypocrites. (Looks to the people) We'll help.
Person A: (Relieved) Thank you, both of you. You have no idea how much that means to us.
Byakai: You should go back to shelter, we'll see what we can do about the Seithr Beings.
Kiryos: Retreat. That's an order.
They listen to the Major, and quickly depart.
The duo heads toward the area in question, it isn't long until they arrive in a chaotic scene unfolding, thickening hazes of Seithr creeping through the air. A distorting miasma seeps around, as Seithr sticks and takes shape of whatever it touches, painting it in a darkening hue. The remnants of energy can be sensed, a suffocating and poisonous air, Kiryos seems a bit disoriented by it, but tries to shake it away.
While they walk, they spot a group of small red-colored crystalline masses scattered on the ground which shake around violently. Their dark auras pull in the remains of life energy around them. As it occurs, the shards become more vivid, almost a burning blaze of scarlet. Eventually, the shards are encased by the Seithr which take on humanoid shapes and the shadowy being that emerges hisses at the two.
Seithr Being A: More flesh worms show up?
Seithr Being B: It isn’t the Azure… their desires mean nothing to us. Zaezel won’t care about them.
When they come close, sharp razor edges pop out of the slits on one of Byakai’s sleeve-paws, igniting the metallic bodies in a slight glow as he takes a stance, tails twitching wildly.
Byakai: (Growls) Haven’t you caused enough damage here? You stole many souls already.
Kiryos summons his weapons, keeping his eyes on the Seithrspawn, ready to react to any aggressive movement.
Kiryos: I suppose you haven't come here to bargain.
Seithr Being A: Bargain? We're just here to send more souls to the Boundary's darkness. Without these flesh worm's desires, we wouldn't be here.
Byakai: (Ears twitch as he frowns) You're saying people are attracting you all...? It isn't these people, they just want to be left alone.
Kiryos: (Sarcasm) No respect for others' desires.
Seithr Being B: No. But they feed us, and a greater will in the Boundary, as well as possibilities much stronger than us. You wouldn't understand that, fleshworms.
Byakai: (Angrily) That's reprehensible. Is that what Zaezel wants to do? Devour all the life energy here?
Seithr Being A: He does what he's told by that force, as we all do. Will you run away in terror like the others, or will you try and battle what you can never truly kill? Stay, and we'll enjoy shredding your bodies to ribbons and letting your souls be consumed by the Boundary's power.
Kiryos: I don't think so.
He summons an ice dagger and throws it at the being's crystal, forcing it to block with its limbs and leaving their back open for an attack, which the Assassin exploits by quickly dashing past his enemy and striking them in the back with his blade.
Shadowy auras cloak the struck Seithr Being which slips away into a pool of darkness. While a vigilant Kiryos is trying to locate the creature, a small tendril whips him from below. Pain surges in his ankles, causing him to lose balance and drop on his back against the concrete with a thud.
When the second shadow lunges in at him it creates sharp, curving talons on a blob-like hand. Prior to them making contact, however, a blur intercepts. Byakai twists in midair and strikes with a vicious drilling lunge to cut away the Seithr on the entity. On a hit, the black material pulls apart momentarily to reveal the glistening mass of the crystal. Reeling, the entity tries to cut down Byakai midair, using both its strange arms in a pincer motion, but the beastkin avoids it nimbly and aims his next blow. His hind paw slams into the small gap where the crystal still is, leaving a crack on it. While the Seithr Being produces a horrid shriek, Byakai vaults over and transitions into a downward-traveling diagonal slash through its inky body.
Seithr Being A: So the flesh worms know how to battle us, doesn't matter.
The first humanoid creature emerges from the dark puddle, its injuries healed, and it hisses at the two before sinking its limbs into the earth. In response, the Seithr squirms through and turns into a small batch of moving spikes which erupt at the duo.
Kiryos places his hands on the ground and pushes himself off of it, performing a back handspring and getting out of the spikes' way. Another attack comes his way, as the creature lunges at him with one of its limbs transformed into a spike, but the Assassin leaps over it, twisting in mid-air to throw a volley of daggers at the crystal, chipping away at it.
A shadowy pulse blows through the air and trips the two up, the beastkin goes tumbling a couple of feet away before rolling back in with narrowed cat eyes while Kiryos recovers soon after. Byakai's right paw rests on the ground while he remains in his stance, thinking about how to approach. As the second one reappears, the damage done earlier is nullified, seithr collecting on it and repairing its body and crystal. It produces a hissing cackle when it pulls itself broken limbs and form into shape.
Seithr Being B: Kssheeehee! Such a pitiable assault, your souls are as fragile as the rest of these flesh worms!
An odd and mishappen liquid claw tries to grab the two, but they manage to avoid it narrowly.
Byakai: (Growls) We can't let them regenerate, they'll outlast us. Our hits aren't doing enough damage... but maybe-- (Blinks as his ears twitch in thought) You think your ice can reach their crystals, even just temporarily?
Kiryos: Perhaps... Mother knows how to shatter their crystals with ice. Maybe we can try something.
Byakai: I don't know if we can shatter them that easily, but ice might help to make it a bit easier. Neither of us are that experienced in battling these beings but we have to learn somehow.
Kiryos: Use my shoulders as a platform to jump off when I give you the signal.
He dashes forward, giving Byakai an opening by taking a swing at one of the beings with an ice claymore, exposing the crystal and freezing it.
Kiryos: Now.
Byakai charges in tailing the young man and leaps from the Major's shoulders as instructed, while airborne he brings all ten claws out and dives right at the being's crystal with breakneck speed. Thrusting his claws at the last second, the edges slice across the frozen crystal stunning the humanoid being. It stays there, its crimson eyes still staring down their target, but the crystal cracks apart further, bit by bit, and begins to dissolve, radiating a glistening bursting display of dark red energy. Byakai is surprised by how much damage the crystal could take, but it looks to be over.
The thing's body becomes less concentrated, breaking down. Even in death, the creature still sneers with malevolence and disdainful disposition.
Seithr Being A: It doesn't... matter...don't you get it? There will always be more of us than there are you...so long as souls continue their cycle, so long as these flesh worms desire it...so long as this world continues to break down...your actions will mean nothing. Our mind-- is eternal!
In the moment, Kiryos stares at the blackness around the crystal, a strange force surges through it. He loses focus for only a moment, as it seems to trigger a vision, his surroundings are sucked into the darkness and the Seithr, people struggling with the Black Corrosion. It's cold, no warmth around him, not even a ray of light. Some of the people struggle about and crawl at him, their limbs blackening to the darkest pitch.
Kiryos: (To himself) What is that? No... what is going on?
While he is unable to do anything except stare at the hopeless scene, a blue light shines beyond, touching the edge of the darkness. He tries to get to it, but its disappearing rapidly, its radiance being stifled by something.
The crystal suddenly breaks, unable to hold itself together any longer, and with it, the strange scenery shatters like glass the blue light becomes a bright red and expands-- the feelings of dread still remain. Was it just trying to mess with his head, or was it something more?
During the lull, the beastkin quickly strikes the second’s crystal while it’s concentrating its attack on an unsuspecting Kiryos. The inky maw the being turns its limb into almost closes in on him, but it collapses into liquid right in front of him as Byakai’s claws rend across the object. The second one’s crystal breaks easier and dissolves away.
Byakai: Kiryos, what just happened? You were just standing, staring there for a moment.
The Assassin shakes his head as his surroundings restore themselves. Byakai’s perplexed gaze across from him, as the beastkin pants, scanning the area or any more of the Seithr entities.
Kiryos: I... I saw something... something from beyond this world. It was like a vision of events that either transpired long ago or have yet to come. I can't really tell if it was real.
Byakai: That's odd... maybe the Seithr Being was just trying to rattle you and get in your head, showing you something that isn’t real. It was a bit stronger than I expected, which is strange, considering they shouldn't be able to gain power…
Kiryos: I don't know. But I saw something... azure, I suppose. Something out of this world.
Byakai: Wait... (Shakes his head in disbelief and turns to him) you saw the Azure? That--everyone has spent decades trying to find that thing, you actually saw it?
Kiryos: (Closes his eyes in thought) It's not a surprise, honestly... my ancestors could converse with it. My grandmother... she was the Imperator. People say she could hear the Azure.
Byakai: So you're involved in that whole clan that serves the traditions of the Imperator then... you really are an odd one. I may not believe in skepticism, but if that's all true I guess that would make that vision more than a mere scare tactic that Seithr Being used.
Kiryos: You have every right to remain skeptical... these visions don't matter currently. I'm trying to survive, not follow these premonitions.
Byakai: I see...true, there are more immediate problems. (Turns his head to the clearing haze) But it looks like we succeeded, the Seithr is dying down a bit.
He makes a calm smile.
Byakai: It’s good to know our actions made a difference to these people. I need that sometimes, I’m sure you do as well.
A faint shadow of a smile appears on Kiryos' face.
Kiryos: Making a difference... it soothes my soul a bit, helps me escape my misery. (Sighs) I feel like I should do something about my life.
Byakai: Perhaps you should, you don't seem happy with it. (Closes his eyes in thought) Still, I can't imagine Zaezel's shadows only being here to gather energy, he could have gone anywhere for that...
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Peacekeepers
 
Area: The 1st Imperial City of Okoto 
Halls of Eternal Order
A large room spreads out before them, embellished and brimming with wealth and power in its inspiring presence. Everything had a marbled and glassed appearance tinted in silver and blues, the ornate feel is completed with the organic etchings above them in the ceiling where chandeliers of gold glint as they gently sway holding blue light within the tips of each wrapping limb. Several statues stand in the room as well, each having a different crest on their body and glow with an inner light.
All of those present stood at attention primed and proper with their dress uniforms. A chair for each member stands before them surrounding a beautiful glossy table the room with a flag dozens of feet long above them and smaller ones all set in a circular layout which face toward the largest area where the Head of Council would sit.
The man in question takes great attentive stance in his chair, turning his eye to the two who bring themselves through the doorway of whites and blues. Covered completely in silvery blue gown and headdress, the head of Council stares hard for a moment before addressing them.
Nier: You’re nearly late, Marshal.
Lukain doesn't seem to respond with much more than a placid stare, while Lazarith splits away from him approaching the Head and taking the seat closest to him.
A man next to Nier donned in nothing but a mundane uniform with a little badge, reads a list, calling the names of the ones who stood present in the room.
Council Member: The meeting will now begin, each representative say “I” to confirm your respective presence…
[Dialogue as it shows Lukain] Military Division and the Voice of the Overseers: Marshal Lukain Necaros.
The Marshal takes his seat and interlocks his fingers, his gaze nowhere particular while he seems as detached as usual. However, he still responds.
Lukain: I.
[Dialogue as it moves to Rychia] Research and Development: 2nd General Rychia
Rychia: I…
The woman who spoke takes the seat next to Lukain. She has dull red hair which swept over her eyes and lays on her shoulders. Sporting a beautiful figure covered in a uniform which has a raised collar blown back, as the black dress like design hugs her slim figure with small lacings of red. The back of it opens up into two split pieces that hang down like a petal of a flower, all of it pitch as night. A strange sense of coldness, elegance, and cruel power embraces to make her image, and her deceivingly ethereal red eyes held nothing but glints of hidden, unreasonable expectations of everyone around her. Her arms are hugged by the sleeves of the uniform which go into crude sleek black gauntlets-- a clicking sound comes as she taps her fingers with impatience on the rest of the chair. Knee-high armored boots shine like onyx, hugging her thin legs covered in black tights, the boots sleek like her gauntlets as they come down into a pointed toe with a heel. She had no smile on her thin face, merely a look of disinterest for the time being.
[Dialogue as it moves to Lazarith] Council's Guard and Templar: Lazarith
Lazarith: I.
He hastily replies, his wings conceal themselves and the youngest male maintains a dutiful stare at the Head and his fellow Council members.
[Dialogue as it displays Yyntal] Sequence Intelligence Agency: Colonel Yyntal Sorairo
A male then speaks up who wore his dress uniform as well, being from the military it amounted to a large pauldron of fabrics and metals displaying his status over his normal attire. That man however held no sense of coldness around him, his blue eyes are clear and strong.
Yyntal: I, sir.
Amanohokosaka Clan: Imperator Kaiji Amanohokosaka
Suddenly a youthful-loooking woman in purple robes emblazoned with the Clan's crest steps forward and raises her hand. Her aqua blue eyes look at Yyntal first, then she shifts her focus to Nier.
???: Unfortunately, my cousin Kaiji cannot attend this meeting, so I represent the Amanohokosaka Clan. I am Marina Hikamigawa.
The Council member looks to Nier for guidance, he waves it off.
Nier: Very well, you have his permission to do so?
Marina: Of course, sir.
Yyntal remains at attention but can’t help but appear somewhat surprised to see Marina here in Council.
Council Member: If all are present… the meeting can begin.
Nier : First and foremost, the beings that have escaped from the cryogenic chambers in those ruins within Taoreta…
Lazarith: Wasn’t it the SIA's job to make sure that didn’t occur? (Looks at Yyntal) Our division only aids with the problem after the fact. They're not even supposed to be anywhere near the cities.
Yyntal : Yes, our division was sent to those areas to keep breakouts from occurring. None did save the spot we’ve determined Zaezel came from in the Yurisa Region. (frowns as he places his hand on the table in thought) I wasn’t told which members were even there. (Sighs dejectedly) Apologies, but we don’t exactly know how its occurred, sir.
Marina : Nobody could know for certain. Those attacks were sudden, so our military couldn’t respond to them properly.
Rychia : It’s not as though its this large unsolvable issue you make it out to be… (Holds her hand out as she straightens her self and shakes her head) Zaezel will be dealt with soon enough. Be thankful that only one escaped… those beings are filled with energy from the depths of the Boundary—we’d be lucky to save any cities if there were more.
Lazarith : It only took one. It took one that costed lives and caused a considerable amount of damage to the city already.
Lukain closes his eyes, listening to the words of the other members.
Lukain : ...I did request for the aid of the SIA in the matters in Kagutsuchi but you saw fit to keep them in their current position—letting Zaezel slip by. (Fixes his uniform) I may be the Marshal of the NOS but I can’t win conflicts with miracles and lack of reliable soldiers and no officials to guide them aside General Akuhei who isn’t even there on official deployment but of his own whim.
Yyntal’s eyes squint with slight disapproval as he speaks out placing his hand on the table.
Yyntal : (Frowns in heavy disagreement) My own son is deployed on your word, sir, along with others, they are every bit “decent”. (shakes his head once before casting his hard stare) I would understand the deployment of the Destroyers if this conflict fell out of hand, but it hasn’t. In fact, Reiga is key to stopping beings like Zaezel and restoring peace in this turmoil.
Marina : (Frowns and gazes at Yyntal with indignation) Reiga is still a boy, Yyntal. He doesn’t yet know how to defeat these beings, and you expect him to take on Zaezel on his own? One man can’t repel the attack alone… even if he is the Azure Prodigy.
Nier : These Irregular Beings only fan flames of war, it was vital to make sure it didn’t happen—and we failed in that. If they reach the old branch’s ruins then we’ll be looking at a much larger problem. Reiga is the one with that strength to stop them.
Lukain : (Sighs as he rubs his temple) Yes, however, the Azure Prodigy lost against Zaezel, and you expect him to win and stop this? (lowers his hand)
Yyntal : Why would you send him on his own? To test his strength? Of course, he’s going to lose, Reiga hasn’t seen war, Marshal.
His words come strongly, but to the Marshal who held no empathy or sympathy-- he merely shakes his head at the Colonel’s words.
Lukain : And whose fault is that? (Strengthens his gaze) if you know something surrounding Lieutenant Sorairo, please say so. If not, stop speaking now.
Yyntal : …
Lukain : It isn’t my fault that you raised him poorly… focusing on giving him a childhood instead of his potentials as a future leader of this Order, he has yet to even hone his abilities over his power of Azure, which would be needed to help defend our Government from the threats of these Irregularities. Your neglectful choice to leave him as he is has made him into what he is now. And because of that he isn't even close to ready to fight this war.
Yyntal grinds his teeth at the statement but keeps his calm as he blows it off with a near silent huff and growl.
Lukain: Sorairo should be standing at the spearhead of my forces just as I witnessed your own father, he certainly contains potential but he has never been taught to put it to use. He is a child of a lieutenant whose potential is rotting away in meaningless ideals. Fear wins a war, not this faith in one boy.
Marina : (Places her hand on the table and leans towards Lukain) With all due respect, Marshal, I have to say that fear is good only for intimidation. To win a war we have to be swift and able to cooperate. And besides… you have no family of your own, so that is why you don’t know whether the Colonel is right or wrong.
Lukain: I could spend so much time picking that logic of yours apart but I simply just don't have the time.
Rychia : A child that can’t fight properly or win is useless in today’s world Colonel. By fear… the Marshal meant weapons and instruments to direct it. The Exitium… the AIP... the Azure… hate me for saying this as I don’t care— but even the Cores.
Nier : Do not speak of them!
He thunders strongly in disdain toward the very mention of the cores.
Nier : (Places his hands back down keeping a strong frown) We are to move toward peace. There is nothing in those cores that lead us to anything but further toward sin. We have enough of a problem as is that’s coming to haunt us—our foremost job is to keep from bringing another conflict like the Third War and its World Crisis with the Irregularities.
Rychia : You can’t deny they were the reason we “won” that war or stopped that Crisis.
Marina : They were the catalyst to the creation of creatures like Zaezel. Do you not understand? We were digging our own grave ever since the Third War.
Nier : Your “Methods” and advancements may have been part of what’s given us our place as world government, but the morality highly questionable. What we stand for, is a vision of peace and eternity as the system was built and intended to allow in pursuit of perfection of our world.
Lukain thinks to himself as he watches the others bounce opinions off one another, his expression remains unchanged the entire time. 
Yyntal: I agree with the head of Council, we are peace bringers above all else Marshal.
Lukain: (Straightens out in his chair and hardens his stare) Yet peace continues to die despite our efforts, what does it tell you about the people’s desires? (Turns his gaze back to them) Of course...none of that matters. Peacekeepers... that is who we are.
Nier: (Voice only) We will continue to rely on the strength of our military in order to suppress this invasion of Zaezel's forces.
----
Shackles of Status
 
As Byakai and Kiryos continue moving through the wreckage of the higher levels and aiding people where they can, a sudden sound of approaching steps draws their attention, and a male's voice follows.
Reiga: (Voice only) Kiryos! Hey!
Akari: (Voice only) Kir-Kir!
Recognizing his companion's voices, the Major turns around to see the figures of Mysteria, Reiga, and Akari come over to the two. Slowing to a stop when they're a few feet away, Reiga greets him with a relieved smile while Akari stays just behind him with her arms behind her back and a jubilant expression of her own.
Reiga: Good to see you're alright. Was worried when I didn't see you during the battle with Zaezel earlier.
Mysteria: Hm...that's strange, there was a report here of criminal activity but I'm not noticing anything out of the ordinary.
Byakai: We handled it. No one to take in though--it was Seithr Beings.
Mysteria: Oh... how disturbing to think they're slipping by our radar. (Bows her head to Byakai momentarily) I thank you, Vigilante, (Gestures to Kiryos) and excellent work as ever Major Hikamigawa.
Reiga: (Squints in amusement) Hah... now that's just like Kiryos to have already handled things in the shadows. (Nods) Well, I'll be sure to do my own part in this battle regarding Zaezel.
Kiryos: You do that... I know you can do that. You're not alone in this.
Reiga: Course I'm not alone, I've got you, just like when we were kids. Mysteria too.
Akari: (Quickly looks at Reiga) Don't forget me.
She happily chimes in while standing to Reiga's side.
Reiga': Oh I know, that's a given.
While Kiryos dips his head in thought over being unhappy with his situation, he remembers everything he cares about is with the system--Reiga looks to Byakai.
'Reiga: And you, uh...aren't you the guy who Kiryos was trying to--?
The vigilante beastkin flinches a bit at the questioning gaze of the Lieutenant, and his tails twitch about while he turns away.
Byakai: (Quickly interjects) Ah, I should be going. There are still more criminals I need to handle, ones who are possibly connected to Zaezel's appearance. Good luck to you, Kiryos. Perhaps our paths will cross again.
With those words, the beastkin quickly jumps away to a higher building and disappears. Reiga scratches his head and shrugs it off.
Reiga: I swear I recognize him? In any case, I guess it's a good thing we have decent vigilantes around...
Mysteria: It's always a help when the people in this world stand up to the battle. Sometimes even we need them...without his help, these people might have been killed.
Akari notices the assassin's expression and her smile is replaced by a look of confusion.
Akari: Is something wrong, Kir-Kir? I'm sensing strange things... are you sad about something?
Kiryos strokes his chin in thought as he thinks of the words to say.
Kiryos: Sort of... it's just sorrow for all the lives lost today. So much destruction around... it's hard to believe that it was a much more peaceful place just a day ago.
They walk to a central part of the block and look across to the recovering portion of the district and the buildings that were attacked. Reiga takes a seat on a cement wall encircling one of the broken statues, dipping his head while he exhales. Mysteria and Akari stand nearby to his side.
Reiga: Well, thanks to the Brigadier... (Rolls his eyes without sincerity) sort of... Zaezel retreated somewhere at least. But... (Pulls his hand through his hair) some lives were saved.
Mysteria: The Brigadier and Nex spent most their time battling each other... it still puzzles me that he was raised with our enemy. Nex's Grimoire consumed many lives in the city, even if it was to battle Zaezel... those sacrifices can't be ignored.
Reiga: No, I know that. I hope to take out Zaezel so Nex's Grimoire doesn't have to be involved again...not only that, but it threatened Akari. (Sighs in thought, resting his head against his temple) Sorry Kiryos, it's been rough. A lot has happened, I'm just glad you're okay honestly. You did more good today than anyone in that massacre involving Zaezel.
Kiryos: It's not enough to save everyone... but it was at least something.
He draws a glyph in the air, and icy mist emerges from it. From this mist, a magnificent white wolf walks out towards her master.
Kiryos: (Ruffles Koori's fur) I'm sorry I couldn't let you out sooner. It's safe now.
Reiga: Some is better than none.
Akari smiles at Koori, kneeling down to pet her on the side with child-like glee in her eyes.
Mysteria: One thing is certain... Kagutsuchi will take some time to recover from this. It will be weeks of just chasing out these criminals who will come in to take advantage of the chaos. I heard even Commander Lazarith is being discussed to be deployed by the World Order Council.
Reiga: Oh wow. Well, things are getting more serious by the day... is this going on in any other cities, Mysteria?
Mysteria: Last I heard, no... only Kagutsuchi is currently being targeted, but this crime is becoming less isolated. It may spread soon... with a majority of our forces concerned about the LS, it makes dealing with them much harder.
A frown lashes on Reiga's expression when he hears that.
Kiryos: So even the Templar are being deployed... anything about my mother, Mysteria?
Koori gently touches Akari's hand with her nose, sniffing it, and wags her tail, accepting Akari as a friend, much to her happiness.
Mysteria: She's with the Council right now...representing the clans in place of the Imperator. And (looks to Reiga) so is your father, in place of the SIA leader.
Reiga's eyes widen momentarily as he puts his gaze to her quickly, reeling back.
Reiga: M-my dad is? Ah... talk about responsibility. I wonder why the SIA leader isn't appearing lately.
Mysteria: Sometimes stand-ins are used. I know Akuhei and the SIA leader aren't in good terms, so it seems they trust Colonel Sorairo due to his better publicity. But they'll all be having a meeting I heard. Marshal and the Head of Council and head of the Research department will also be there.
Reiga: Man... all the top brass. Is it because of Nex and his Grimoire or something else?
Mysteria: That I don't know... but I'm positive they'll discuss the threats. They never meet like this unless it's dire, so Marshal might have been here in the city personally to assess the situation and is reporting it as we speak…
Kiryos: So the situation really is that critical, otherwise they wouldn't organise an urgent meeting.
Reiga: Sounds to me like there's something bigger going on. Not that we'll ever know about it...
He looks at Koori and Akari and gains a smile again.
Reiga: I can't be the only one who misses the simple times when we could all just chill out in the academy courtyard, wasting time discussing how we'd make this world a better place, right?
Mysteria: You're still endearingly naive, but I'm glad you haven't forgotten those days. (Smiles) We'll get there...we just have to fight for it now.
Reiga: That was the only escape I had from my responsibilities, so I miss those days sometimes...because now they're all spent trying to live up to my family name. Thankfully, I have you guys.
Kiryos: We're both prisoners of our status, Reiga. It's not as rare as you think. The nobles are expected to set the bar for the others.
Reiga: Yeah sure, I get that, but I feel like I'm among the only people who sometimes don't like it. I mean you've always enjoyed your status as a noble, but me I just--I don't know...nevermind.
Mysteria: It's a lot of pressure, but the people need individuals like you and Kiryos to look up to, even the Brigadier and the rest of the families. The NOS are the last protectors of order, without us, it would collapse into chaos.
Reiga's eyes shut slightly as he sighs. 
----
A Scarlet Sword
 
Nex draws closer to the building which displays the large banners of the NOS, pointing his gaze to them he still remains out of sight at this point. A couple of rounds of scanning around, it's a small outpost, no towers or outside fortification. The young man approaches and breaks through a sealed entry, shattering it easily with a touch of his hand as crimson energy shoots through the glyph. He jumps landing against the metal flooring of the outpost's interior, taking note of the lower level where the NOS soldiers move around, their numbers appearing to be thin in comparison to normal which makes Nex frown in thought.
NOS Soldier A: (Paces around) Why didn't they just have one of the families deal with this...
NOS Soldier B: (Standing completely still with a sigh) Would draw too much attention.
NOS Soldier A: (Turns to the other soldier, frowning) Something about it just feels wrong though.
NOS Soldier C: Take it up with our superiors and let me know how well that goes for you. Shut up, and do your job.
NOS Soldier B: It isn't like those terrorists will show up anyway. Just wait until the others are done here.
Still clearly unsatisfied, the soldier resumes their patrol around.
After hearing their conversation, the rebel squints in thought putting his hand on the wall. A few more seconds pass by as he tries to see more, but eventually, he seems to become impatient and leaps over the railing landing on the ground.
Upon spotting the silver-haired male, the soldiers all instantly ready their weapons, while one responds in alarm and points his way. 
NOS Soldier B: A-Azure 0! The hell are you doing here! Don't you have bigger problems than a isolated outpost?
With a swishing motion, Nex draws his sword, setting it to his side as he watches the surrounding officers. As a few become bold enough to try to come near him, the man swings the blade and dark energy shreds through them, causing their bodies to flood with Seithr. Their blackening bodies fall down as they writhe, and afterward, a cold glare is directed toward them by the man.
Nex: The NOS is always my concern...I'm the enemy of your world, after all. No matter how small the force, you know I can't let any of you think you can try anything.
NOS Soldier C: Dammit, (points to a few other soldiers) someone notify the squadron leader!
Nex: Go ahead. By the time they get here, you'll all be dead.
Grimacing in disdain at the comment one of the officers lift their weapon and begin to fire his direction, with Ars bullets but the rebel easily dodges as he weaves away, closing in and aiming a punch at their midsection which sends them flying backward and into a metallic construct. Two more jump in at him with their weapons drawn and the rebel spins his body kicking one away and then uses his sword's massive body to clash with the other, swiftly overpowering them and forcing them to the floor, before a mass of darkness breaks them down into shadowy flakes of scarlet.
Hearing more approach from behind, Nex ducks from the blade of the short swords that aim for his head, and then cuts through them with his own blade, edge glinting red in a horizontal slash.
Among the carnage, some of the others had run off toward a structure.
A few seconds later Nex knocks away a few more but squints when hears the hum of a device. Turning around he tries to find the source of it, slightly bothered when he finds nothing. It isn't until the Ars Magus device reveals itself from a cloaking spell cast on it, and had gathered energy along a strange rod. Clicking his tongue in irritation and slight surprise, a concentrated force is fired toward him, the projectile covered in restrictive blue runes. Although the rebel reacts fast enough to avoid it spearing him through his body, it pierces his lower shoulder, causing him to recoil with a growl. The one manning the device steps out into sight.
NOS Soldier D: Even if this place is rather secluded, we wouldn't leave ourselves completely defenseless. We were saving it for Zaezel’s forces... but circumstances presented...
A collection of disruptive energy sparks around him from the sharp needle-like golden projectile glowing with patterns of inner light the rebel glares as he holds his injury. His fingers draw away as he's unable to touch the object without it causing pain. His eyes narrow, and Seithr masses while darkness whirls in streams of red and shrouds his arm.
Nex: ...Weapon from the Research division. Tch, idiots...you just make this damn thing even more restless.
Some of the remaining NOS soldiers motion for a binding Ars to be released, and as it wraps around him he glances to it with a scowl and a long sigh.
Nex: Of course...
NOS Soldier D: It’ll keep you from causing trouble while the others deal with this invasion you’ve let break out.
Nex: (Squints in confusion) Invasion…? Listen, I have nothin' to do with that. Those guys are just pissed at your Government.
NOS Soldier C: No. Your actions have let them break through... what did you think would happen when you damaged our defense mechanisms during that fight with that terrorist, Zaezel? You’ve caused an utter mess is what you've done, but it was probably your intention.
The rebel's stony expression breaks into a wince while he coughs just as the blunt weapon drives into his gut, but he still glares.
NOS Soldier C: Why are you here? To kill us? I doubt it's just that...
Nex: You're all planning something...and this place is quiet enough to keep attention away from yourselves.
NOS Soldier C: Perceptive for a savage. You're not incorrect, though. Once the Marshal gains permission, both you and Zaezel will know the might of this Order.
Their reply is full of confidence, and Nex squints, passing air through touching teeth as he furrows his brow.
Nex: Tch...is that so. Then I was right. You have a counter plan with the System...don't pretend like this invasion is any real threat to those bastards. If anything it's just an excuse for them to--
There's a sudden sound that cuts the air, as the blur of a strange crimson blade made up of Seithr strikes through the ceiling in a crimson streak and drives through the back of the skull of the soldier just in front of Nex, while silver-haired rebel pulls his head back in surprise at the construct before it breaks down into particles. For a second he stares at the spot it previously stood, complete shock twists his expression, but before he can do anything, a second sword drives into the object lodged in his shoulder, before it shatters and disrupts the restraint spell, scattering it into glinting light. Slowly dimming, the construct breaks apart.
With his shoulder free, Nex finds himself at a loss and swiftly points his gaze to the hole in the ceiling level, for a brief second he sees the figure of a woman holding her hand out as she stands on a crimson glyph, but she swiftly vanishes from his sight.
In the next instant, the soldiers point their attention to the incoming force that rushes them suddenly. Haze fills the room, and the rebel breathes it with a bit of a grimace upon realizing it's Seithr. The remaining NOS soldiers seem to occupy themselves with that and run in to meet their new threat. Sounds of yells and growls of effort and pain fill the air, but Nex can't see it clearly as the Seithr thickens.
Nex: The hell is goin' on--was that Valetha who caused this?
During the bedlam, the young male turns his attention to the binds on him, and he breaks them easily without the interference of the magic.
The collection of Seithr flowing around is drawn inward to Nex who winces in alarm as crimson streaks move along him. Staring at it, he clicks his tongue in frustration and his pupils dart to the corner of his sclera in thought. As though coming to a decision, the man sighs in relent, before the pace quickens and the collection of Seithr build around him in masses, his irises constrict and become pure crimson. Mere seconds later the pent up darkness erupts from his body and attacks wildly, striking many in the form of shadowy serpents of a crimson hue. The sounds of struggle break into terror and agony as the dark manifestations rush through.
As it draws to a close, Nex hunches slightly and forcibly contain it with a growl as it shrinks down returning to his body. He then breaks away, rushing to another hallway. The room behind him is fairly silent if there was anyone left he didn't care to know, and doesn't bother to look back at the damage done.
A couple of moments pass since the younger male's departure, and some of the assailants from earlier step out, looking at the husks left behind.
Criminal: That Grimoire is as devastating as we heard...but it didn’t get to store much.
Criminal B: Doesn’t matter, that won’t keep it quiet forever. It’s working that’s all that was important. Besides, our friend won’t encounter any resistance to get what they needed here. Now, let’s clear the rest of this place of any stragglers.
----
A Forced Compromise
 
Nier: Concerning Azure 0, he’s an element that must be handled with care. We must not forget...he destroyed an entire city owned by our government.
Rychia: I remember hearing of that… That is quite the weapon of a young man, whoever designed him had an impressive taste. Imagine the damage he’d do now… drop him into LS’s top levels and watch him consume everything. A million thorns removed instantly.
Nier: I do not want a repeat of that cataclysm. However, he needs to be stopped.
Rychia: He’s too wild. Why not instead allow the Marshal to utilize one of our… “pets”-- the AIP. A Weaponized AIP...that will calm him sufficiently, don’t you agree?
Lazarith: (Appalled) P-pets? What? AIP aren’t pets…
Marina: The AIPs are living beings, General, and I would refrain from calling them “pets”. They are much more human than you think. I personally know the AIP that is currently partners with Lieutenant Sorairo, and I would assure you that they are fragile.
Lukain: Fragile… I almost have to laugh at that. The power the AIP possess is immense, they can become stronger than you could imagine. They are fragile until they become a living weapon when their soul unleashes its potentials.
Yyntal: Do not speak of such immorality in the consul. We are protectors and do not rely on such “weapons”.
Rychia shoots a look at Yyntal, eyeing his blade behind him.
Rychia: So speaks the one with a weapon capable of destroying existence slung on his back, designed as imitation of the Genesis Destroyers’ weapons. Do you, “no longer use” those weapons?
Yyntal: That is completely different, the Nex themselves are not alive, AIP are. You know my position on the Exitium, and forcing AIP to become weaponized.
Lukain: In your eyes, perhaps, however in mine they were far more useful in the war than could be imagined.
Marina: Then let us see you fighting in the front lines, Marshal.
Lukain: I’d be more than happy to fight in the front lines, were it the Council would allow me to, but I can barely get away from my desk these days without having to explain every little detail.
Marina: I am sure you understand that the AIPs are more valuable than these weapons. It takes a titanic amount of soul energy to create one.
Rychia : The AIP and the Nex are similar to each other in more ways then one. The core of their existence for one…both come from the boundary both draw their power from it. Depends on the AIP or the Nex Exitium really to determine their value… some AIP are trash like the replicas. Others are near the levels and capable of perceiving “Gods”. We know of what we speak. After all both the Marshal and I are where we stand because of the mere fact we’ve advanced the NOS. That is the truth, you can’t deny it.
Yyntal : (Stands) And it is those same thoughts of AIP being mere weapons, of people with power being tools, that put it into others heads that we can simply capture that man and expect him to willingly do as we wish for the betterment of this world.
Rychia : You’re horribly uneducated, we won the Third War not on diplomacy but dominance and utilized every bit of power we had. That perfected young man is key to mankind’s desires whether you wish to swallow your peace loving words or not it will never change that its the truth.
Marina : Dominance, you say? That was not dominance, but terror. You decimated those people, you ruined lives, and you erased everyone in your way. I was there, Marshal. I saw the terrors of war personally, as a young girl.
Marina’s azure eyes burn with fires of sorrow as she remembers the events of the Third War. Witnessing her friends die in a conflict she did not understand had changed her inside. She lowers her gaze and tries to hold her tears back.
Yyntal : (Frowns as he looks down)
Lazarith : That war was nothing to be proud of…
Lukain : And?
His voice cuts the silence once more with a stern uncaring tone.
Lukain: I utilized what I saw fit to put the NOS where it is now… as the undisputed Order of this world of ours. This system, this entire government would be nothing without the advancements I allowed it. Everything in that war I had a hand in with the aid of the other architects… everything that allows this government to enjoy its superiority as the world power.
Rychia: All the system lacks is the awakened power of the “True Azure” and without it… and a new mind to replace the corroding one…
Lukain: Even the wish for peace that the previous head spoke for will never come to light. If you want the world to be as you wish, you need desires, as well as the Azure. Be it a reality of complete destruction or as we seek one of "Eternity" of mankind's order... neither will come to be without him. So if you want your peace… you had better be willing to stain your hands in sin once more to get it.
Marina: The world is already decaying, Marshal. There is not much left for it.
Lukain: Exactly, so why do we even bother? Why hold on to these meaningless ideals? This world is dying… either change with it or you’ll perish. Like most of this world has already. These ideals we hold up in the Council, this idea of “Peace”, it died, long long ago.
Marina: That is not what I meant. We have to do something to somehow prolong our existence. Perhaps holding onto these ideals will allow us to live another day.
Yyntal: … For those of us who have a reason to fight for the world we do. I still believe in the idea of a peaceful world… that may be where Reiga gets his so called childish ideals. But they’re ideals I will die for Marshal. I’m a father, I will not let my child’s world fall apart due to the mistakes of the past. (Looks around at the others) Marina, Lazarith, myself… even the Head of Council, we have reasons to try and help this world. Even if we are never redeemable… our children and those we care for-- don’t they deserve a world as well? One that isn’t destroyed?
Lukain: You’re entitled to think whatever you wish, Colonel… I would sooner end this war properly instead of worrying about such trivial things.
Nier: We are trying to end the war. That man who has the Azure, he’s our priority, with him that is when our vision can come to light, that is perhaps the only thing I agree with you on.
Lukain: If you will not give me the support of the SIA’s SD Division then at least allow me to handle this in an efficient way. We would stop every threat, and contain Azure 0, all in one clean sweep.
Yyntal: What are you suggesting?
Lukain: The AIP is a potential key to dealing with Azure 0, and within her program, it was requested to place the groundwork to stop the threats against our world. Of course, it is dormant. So you can conclude my suggestion for yourselves.
Alarm falls over the rest of the members, while Rychia seems to be the least surprised as she seems to give an approving look.
Rychia: It would get results...
Nier: (Raises his voice in protest) Utilizing one of those weapons now is completely out of the question, they are only to be used as a last resort!
Lukain: I have a Four on the field partnered with Colonel Sorairo’s son, and because she is my design, I ultimately have the say on what to do with her. If I think she can be of use stopping Azure 0, then why would I not seize that opportunity?
Yyntal: The reasoning for her being with him wasn’t to be utilized as a weapon. That Four, Akari, has a bond with my son, what if Nex destroys her? You can’t risk that.
Marina: (Takes her seat) Indeed, that AIP is unique. She is meant to empower Reiga, not hunt after Azure 0. If you want to catch him, you can send stock models.
Lukain: You must be joking… he destroys stock models with ease, that is nothing but a waste of development. Not only is the Four one of the most efficient of the designs, but she has a reaction with Azure 0. Testing that interaction with the Azure has its benefits.
Marina: (Sighs, realizing that it’s pointless to argue with Lukain) You are the Marshal here.
Yyntal: (Sighs quietly) And should it work, if you apprehend Azure 0 what do you intend to do?
Nier: We’ll deal with that decision when he's here. There is no reason to discuss it now… That being said, I have the say in this Council, Marshal. I can suspend you from that field, do not forget that. If I deem you so much as trying to harm the NOS I have the authority to keep you here until I say otherwise.
Lukain: You can, but I believe that to be a rash decision. One that will ultimately hinder your Government, placing it at immense risk against threats you have no idea how to handle, but for obvious reasons, I do. I can stop Azure 0...but only if I am allowed the means to do so. The Head of Council is a mere figure, the only reason the previous was any different was because he was also the head of the SIA and one of our former partners during that War.
Nier: … (Closes his eyes with a slight look of detest, backed into a corner he sighs) Very well...do as you will, Marshal. But the AIP is a last resort, understood?
Lukain: Yes. sir.
Nier: So long as I have my word here I don’t believe you to be so brazenly foolish to challenge the council's authority at such a crucial time.
Lukain: I would never dream to. I was simply trying to reason my actions, and make my point crystal clear so we can handle this in the quickest and most efficient way.
Marina: Right now our main problem is Zaezel. (Looks at Nier) And about Kagutsuchi, sir... the Amanohokosaka clan will make sure that the destroyed parts of the city will be restored. Our money will serve a good purpose in this case.
Lukain: (Tilts his head away in disinterest) Yes well… you handle those matters of goodwill as you wish. I’ll stop the threat of Zaezel and capture Azure 0. If you’ve nothing more to say, sir, I would ask to take leave.
Nier: … (Offscreen) You’re dismissed Marshal.
Rychia: I will leave as well, there is nothing more to discuss now that the main objectives have been handled. I must be returning to my own department for now… It's been a pleasure.
Lukain swiftly turns, and leaves the room without a second thought, Rychia does the same following after him as the rest of them stay behind.
Marina: (Sighs) Marshal Necaros in his usual repertoire...
When the meeting concludes, Lazarith approaches the Head of Council, looking at him in plight.
Lazarith: Sir… I wish to speak with you about a request. After hearing everything the others have had to say.
Nier: Speak, Commander.
Lazarith: I want to go out to Kagutsuchi… in order to bring back Myri. (Frowns as concern gleams in his eyes, drifting to the corner of his sight) I don’t want to take any chances, with people like General Akuhei there, and Zaezel...I’m not there to protect her like I was in the past.
Nier’s eyes become wide with the idea of sending someone in.
Nier: Perhaps...the Council could use a pair of eyes directly on the field of battle.
Lazarith: Of course, my wings are for the protection of this order you all seek to uphold.
Nier: We'll speak in private, follow me, Commander.
As both the Admiral and Commander leave, Yyntal stares at the table for a few more seconds, letting out an exhale of exhaustion.
Yyntal: ...I don’t know if that meeting was efficient or not…
Marina: Neither do I, Yyntal… neither do I. (Looks at him, walking over to the man) Still, it’s nice to see you again. We haven’t met in a long time.
Yyntal: It's never a good time it seems. I don’t know if I’d wish to be out in the current conflict or not.
Marina: (Sighs) It never was easy, remember? I left the Militia a long time ago, but I worry about Kiryos. He is an Assassin… forced into this role, he despises everything, even his life. I do not want to see him suffering, Yyntal… just like I suffered when my brother died in my hands.
Seeing the woman's pained expression causes the male Colonel to turn his gaze down slightly.
Yyntal: Yes there were a great many loses in that war. I remember how hard it was for you... loss is a difficult part to deal with no matter how strong a soul we have. And now it seems to be threatening this generation. My son being asked of so much, with hardly any experience to his name. Simply because he is gifted with the Azure, the Marshal expects the universe of him... but I can see it in my son's eyes that he both wants to be here and doesn’t.
Marina: Kiryos desires the same… after all, they are birds of a feather, like we are. One is an idealist who desires to bring peace into the world, while the other is a bit more cynical, but well-meaning as well. (Closes her eyes) Though Kiryos wasn’t like that when he was a child, remember? All those experiences made him the man he is right now. Every time he came back home, I healed his scars, I gave him the solace he didn’t have. (Opens her eyes) Oh, what I am saying?
Yyntal: And for him to have met my son, well I’m sure we may have seemed like the picture-perfect family… but… (Sighs thinking to himself) I had to join the SIA for the fact of Reiga and it took time from him. I can’t even say anything to him now… (Exhales) Sometimes I wish I could have gone another road… but at least he has a good head on his shoulders.
Marina: (Smiles) That’s because Kiryos has to guide him sometimes. (Suddenly frowns) Sometimes fate doesn’t give a choice, forcing us to do something what we don’t want to do… like what happened with us. (Looks at Yyntal’s weapon) This thing still affects you, doesn't it?
Yyntal: The Exitium... Gadreel is no blade I’d choose, but, I am here because of my own decisions. (Closes his eyes) That guilt is my own to bear... and if it means keeping this weapon in line and preventing it from being used for worse ends, then so be it.
Marina: You did not answer my question, Yyntal. (Looks at him with concern) Those weapons affect your mind and soul.
Yyntal: (Opens them) I’m aware of what a weapon like this causes...but I’ve seemed to do alright for the past few years.
Marina: (Brushes her hair off her eyes) But you told me once that the effect was gone when I was by your side. Perhaps it has to do something with my blood.
Yyntal: Perhaps, I do remember that. All the same, I wouldn’t let a weapon like this be the death of me. Though serving the SIA might... (Closes his eyes as he shakes his head) knowing so much, and never being able to speak any of it.
Marina: The same happened with me. I cannot tell the truth to anyone, or else Kiryos will die. It is hard to know something that others don’t, but the circumstances force me to keep it to myself.
Yyntal: I have a feeling... that someday things won't be able to be hidden anymore. And I fear that day because its likely one we’ll answer for a lot we won’t be able to justify. I still think we should've just let that man be when he was taken in by a family. (Shakes his head) But I don’t know what exactly happened there, still, it may of stopped a lot of suffering, if we just moved to a new vision and worked with what we had, rather than desiring more.
Marina: (Sighs) People can be weak. Their vices can overwhelm them, and they crave for more and more. Leaving Nex be could be a wise decision, but what’s done is done, and there is no way to bring everything back. We have created a monster by our own hands, and we all deserve punishment for it, Yyntal.
Yyntal: I suppose you’re right...and now, it is too late to leave things be. We can not begin to ask for forgiveness from the gods now, after the Third War we simply deny certain things. This war simply continues, and what could have been salvation for this world, seeks to destroy everything.
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Meanwhile, Nex walks into a smaller room within the depths of the outpost and looks to see a display on a large monitor, it shows that a recent transfer had occurred and shows the name of another facility. Coming closer, the rebel scrunches his brow at it.
At the same time, the NOS official displays their charge of the outpost with a more detailed uniform, and upon hearing him and turns around stepping back in surprise, while they also reach for their weapon, but the young man lunges in and knocks it away from an unsteady grip of the leader with a swipe of his hand that makes streaks of crimson like talons. After the impact, the metallic body of a polearm goes sliding away across the steel mesh. With a fierce stare, Nex presses his hand against the man’s uniform’s collar and snarls.
Nex: So...feel like talkin’ about what this is they’re all planning? Or do I have to do it the hard way?
[Cuts to the four NOS officials, Reiga, Kiryos, Akari and Mysteria]
While the four NOS officials enjoy the company of one another, Mysteria receives a message and answers, a communication with a NOS soldier begins, but she can't make out most of it due to sounds of conflict on the other end so it's only heard by her.
Mysteria: Yes? The outpost is being attacked-- by who? Hold on, I can't hear you, you're breaking up--hello? Do you copy?
It abruptly ends, and Reiga stands up, quickly coming to attention and glancing to his troubled superior.
Reiga: Trouble?
Mysteria: I'm not sure... someone is attacking our outpost just outside this area. That explains why no one intervened in this problem earlier. I need to stand guard to make sure no one gets through while the district is recovering.
She stands back up and turns to Kiryos, speaking to him with a frown.
Mysteria: I hate to ask you this, but do you mind checking the outpost, Kiryos? Reiga still hasn't recovered fully.
Kiryos: Fine, I can do that.
He climbs up to the top of the statue to see the area and notices the outpost Mysteria was talking about.
Kiryos: I see it. (Jumps down to the ground level) It won't take long. Come, Koori.
The wolf's ear twitch as she hears her master's words, and she trots to his side.
Akari: (Stands back up and waves to him) Be careful Kir-kir, we'll be waiting when you come back.
Reiga: Ah, he'll be fine. Cynics never are bothered by anything, he's cold as ice remember?
Kiryos: (Sarcasm) And you're just begging to die, aren't you?
Reiga: (Grins as he looks to Akari playfully) Ohhh look out he's serious now, he’s dishing out threats.
Akari giggles in response, and Mysteria soon cuts in with a sigh at Reiga's lax nature.
Mysteria: (Voice only) Come on Reiga, we need to remain vigilant.
Reiga: (Snaps to attention) Ah, right, coming! (Looks back to Kiryos) Hey, I mean it, be careful out there.
Kiryos: The same goes for you.
Kiryos walks in the direction of the outpost, with Koori trotting alongside him.
When the three other officials head deeper into the city and toward the populated areas, a few murky shadows dart away and slither up along the tallest structure to come to the side of Zaezel who's sclera fill out with black as his hand holds the red core.
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End of Lurking Shadows
Continues in: Arrival of Irregularity
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Category:Control Sequence Transcript