Kuma's hammer whistled through the air "I have you now!". Metsuhai was standing with his back to the wall. He had nowhere to retreat. Metsuhai was deflecting blows coming from all directions with his longsword. "Kuma, you're getting overexcited," announced Lezner "you need to keep cool, and man, don't kill your partner… Metsuhai you must never ever get cornered like that in battle."
Lezners criticism is actually a compliment. It means he thinks we stand a chance in battle. Not too long ago Lezner was commenting on everyone except me and Kuma. At the first two and a half days he wouldn't even look to our direction. Our reputation is getting better. And it's not just Lezner. Students are laughing at Kuma no more. They are now willingly ready to spar with either of us and respect our strength. Everyone except Koi.
Koi was standing on the other side of the training hall clearly displeased.
Koi is usually so cool and not hot- blooded. So good with the ladies. Right now he is clearly out of balance. He feels he is getting dethroned. I think collision is inevitable.
The last part of training on this fifth day was in the gym. "I want more!" Lezners voice could be heard pretty much to the other side of the street. Metsuhai was continuously lifting small weights. At some point his new white bandage got untied. Metsuhai caught it on time, split second before anyone could see the sign of the ritual duel. Metsuhai rushed too retie it. The previous bandage started to smell. So I had to put a new one. Everywhere around him people were working hard. Doing push-ups, crunches, sit ups, and other body building exercises. Kuma was lying on the floor, forcing every muscle in his body. He was still trying to lift the heaviest weight. To everyones surprise he actually made it go above ground several centimeters for a very short time, before it landed back in place with strong steel collision sound. With training this hard, it was not uncommon for trainees to hate their trainers. However, Metsuhai didn't see any hate, and even complaints were only spoken quietly when no was listening. He did not know whether this was because of the strict discipline and culture in the order, or because many of the trainees were trained from a very young age. Perhaps they, just like him, understood the necessity of it all. Probably all these factors count. It was finally nearing the end of the daily training when Lezner called them out "Come here my children." He is being unusually nice. I wonder how long can he keep this up. All the trainees gathered in a circle around Lezner and those in the middle, like a basketball team. Each putting his hands on the other's shoulders. "I will not keep this a secret from you," explained Lezner, "demons are naturally strong. Big evolved muscles are their nature. No matter how much we train, they will always be bigger. And that means only one thing. We have to work even harder to beat them in their own game. Class dismissed."
The afternoon was the resting time. The time where they were instructed not to train to let their bodies recover. Lezner suggested not to strain the mind either but this was one advice Metsuhai couldn't follow. He was walking around the fort-city breaking his mind frantically looking for a way to earn money. Not only he owed money to Kuma, in a week's time his medicine bottle will run dry again. The natural solution would be to get a job. That is, not including his main work as a soldier. But warriors of the order were not allowed to get another job- their only sacred duty was fighting evil. Even if he tried working off the books, who would hire a tired teenager who is a part time worker without education. And the payment wouldn't cover Metsuhai's expenses as it is. A large wooden signpost on the side of the main road, not so far from the barracks, caught his attention. The signpost was overfilled with pasted printed notes. Some of them were in languages Metsuhai did not understand. But few of them were still readable. The format of the note structure was repeating itself: a highlighted title at the top, then a short description above a picture and finally the prize money. The note which stood out the most read: 'Mordon- very dangerous. Very strong. Very cruel. Killed eleven of our best men and more than hundred civilians before the publishing. Estimated level- C.' Beneath the description was a blurred picture of a large red demon who wears nothing but sport pants. His head was integrated into the body without a neck. Particularly apparent were his significantly long arms reaching all the way to the ground. Beneath the painting was the number 15,000.
Another note written 'Airborg- indestructible, flying, very fierce. Only for pros. He ate a whole family. B- '. The picture showed a stone winged beast with the number 17,000 beneath it.
On the far left was a half erased note- 'Invedos- very tricky opponent. Extremely hard to handle. C'. A blurred dark grey human figure appeared on the picture with the prize of 13,000. Nearby was a particularly large note: 'Tornador- as strong as a whole army, uses violent magic. Large in size. Estimation: A.' On the note was drawn what looked like a picture of a stormy night with the number 17,500. And there were many others. Too many.
At the very bottom of the signpost was an old note. Metsuhai almost missed it. At the very top of the note was a perfect picture of the baron Phaulin. 'Baron Phaulin- ancient, undefeated, indestructible. You see this guy- you flee. Dead men don't need money.' And at the very bottom of this note was a tiny written number- 18,000,000,000.
This is it! Even just hunting this Invedos guy will allow me to pay back Kuma and get two more weeks of medicine. I have to go to battle.
Metsuhai entered the hospital, walking fast. It was late evening and Metsuhai already finished his personal training regimen and had Sakiu grind the recently bought amethyst to powder. Metsuhai scanned the hospital, happy to find a familiar light blue haired nurse. She was somewhat tired from the long workday yet received Metsuhai with a smile.
"I am back," explained Metsuhai "my left arm really hurts, and I'm out of medicine. I do have all the ingredients though, and you said I can count on your help."
"Follow me to the doctor's office. I'll work as fast as possible."
They walked into a typical room with a desk and computer on it, the only unusual part was a model of a human skeleton.
"How much do I owe you?" asked Metsuhai, somewhat worried while the nurse arranged the ingredients. She looked at him for a moment as if not understanding the question, then wiped his fears away- "For a warrior of the order, a not expensive lifesaving procedure should be free… I am Akiara Kasumi by the way."
Metsuhai nodded to show he was listening. Akiara poured one substance into another, mixing them with a steel spoon. She cut a green leaf into the mix and lit a candle under it. After that she skillfully distributed the blue powder at the top of the slowly heating compound.
"Now we just wait another moment or two."
Metsuhai watched the mean looking liquid bubbling, getting to the right color.
"It's ready," Akiara grabbed the bottle with her glove wearing hand and rushed to deliver. As Akiara approached Metsuhai, her foot collided with the table's leg. She lost her balance dropping the precious cure. At the last moment she automatically caught the bottle. But oh no… her other hand instinctively trying to avoid the fall grabbed onto the bandaged hand of Metsuhai, revealing the ritual duel mark. Metsuhai and Akiara were both in shock. Akiara stumbled back, placing her hand on her heart, gasping. She was terrified. "This is a duel mark. You participated in a ritual duel."
"Yes, I did," sadly answered Metsuhai.
"Now that I know, are you going to kill me?"
"No, I can't," he admitted "Will you tell everyone?"
"No, I won't."
"But I did a ritual duel. This should never be done. I broke the ultimate taboo."
"And how does killing you makes anything better?"
For a few moments neither of them spoke. Metsuhai took the cure and put it in his pocket.
"I want to know who did you duel with."
"The baron Phaulin," barked Metsuhai.
Akiara gasped once more "The king of evil. And you fought him!"
"Now you know what kind of filthy bastard I am. You probably hate me."
"No, I think you are very brave."
There was nothing more to say. Metsuhai left the room.
…
Metsuhai entered his room in the barracks quietly. It was already after curfew time so if caught outside the bedroom a warrior could get himself into serious trouble. Also, Metsuhai didn't want to wake up his roommates. To his surprise, upon entering he spotted Takeo sitting on his bed and wiping his Kalashnikov with a clean rag, though his gun seemed perfectly clean.
"Takeo-kun," whispered Metsuhai "I need to hunt demons. How do I start?"
"Can't wait to go to battle, can you?"
"Something like that."
"Brave, but you need your sensei's permission. You can't act on your own."
Metsuhai nodded as he prepares for sleep. Even if he wanted to go without asking Lezner, he didn't know where to find the enemy. It might be difficult to convince Lezner, knew Metsuhai, once he makes up his mind there is no way back. I can't mess this up. Metsuhai regretted not asking Takeo whether he ever went on a mission, before they went to sleep.
Metsuhai was so nervous in the morning martial arts training that he missed kuma's blow to the face. Metsuhai fell off his feet, caressing his hurting face. Kuma's strike was so strong.
"I'm sorry, I was sure you are going to block this," Kuma rushed to apologize.
Lezner did not say anything, but by his expression he was even more displeased than usually.
Metsuhai got back to his feet with Kuma's help. I'll deal with convincing Lezner when the time comes, decided Metsuhai. His strategy was already prepared anyway. But it didn't calm his nerves. However he realized that he needs to get a grip of himself, otherwise his chances will become even slimmer. "Don't worry about it," he reassured Kuma, "I'm fine. Lost my concentration for a moment."
For the rest of the lesson Metsuhai was pushing himself even harder than usually.
"Fifteen minute break!" barked Lezner after the loud gong sound, "meet me at the gym."
Metsuhai bowed slightly to thank Kuma and rushed to Lezner before he'll disappear. Lezner stopped in place releasing more smoke "what do you want?"
"I want to go into battle," Metsuhai got straight to the point.
"You are not ready. You'll get yourself killed. You need weeks of more training. It's not like we are over staffed. I'm trying to help you avoid certain death."
"If I won't go hunting demons I will die." Metsuhai removed the bandage, revealing the spider mark. "What's this, a tattoo?" asked Lezner but by his expression he knew the truth.
"Demon Lord level venom," explained Metsuhai, "has no cure." Lezner cigar fell out of his mouth. "Where did you get it?"
"I fought baron Phaulin."
Lezner started to laugh until he started to choke. Lezner was so entertained he forgot to ask what's beneath the other bandage. "Now that was good, I didn't laugh like that for a while. But either way if you are dying anyway I guess I can't stop you. Good luck. You'll need it." Lezner petted Metsuhai on the shoulder, a rare sign of affection.
Lezner told Metsuhai exactly where to find his new army commander. He promised to speak to him in advance so he'll be expecting Metsuhai. Thus, on the afternoon of his fifth day of training Metsuhai found himself seated across Ando Nakamura. Ando had black hair and black eyes and he was wearing his uniform. On his left shoulder was the brown strap with the sun symbol and two blue lines, indicating that his rank was that of lesser sergeant. Meaning he was two ranks above Metsuhai, who was on the lowest rank called Redavoi. The ranks apparently were similar to the Russian military for historical reasons. Ando's desk was in perfect order, every document pile neatly arranged and every drawer had signage.
"Rushing to go to battle, are you? You know you are a soldier, this will come sooner or later whether you want it or not." Before Metsuhai could answer Ando added "well, if Lezner sent you then you earned his trust. Lezner is a responsible man."
Metsuhai nodded since he felt there was nothing he had to say. Ando began filling a thick document. Without lifting his eyes from the papers even for a second he asked questions.
"It is recommended to go as part of a team. You can have one or several partners going to battle with you. Will you?"
If I have a team this will significantly improve my winning chances. But… that means I'll have to split the money and that's unacceptable. I will not have the means to survive and even though I take the medicine daily I can feel the venom is still spreading.
"I will work alone."
"Have you ever killed a demon before?"
"I did… kind of."
"Have you seen people die? Or corpses?"
"I have."
Ando kept writing, unfazed by any answer. "Done," he announced eventually, sliding the document for Metsuhai to sign. Metsuhai skimmed through the document briefly and signed.
Ando stashed the signed paper into one of the drawers. "Ok, this is how it works," said Ando as he draws a somewhat large phone, a bit similar to Nokia, "this is your battle phone. It's more durable than any smartphone but you can only use it to call people with the same equipment. They are also the only people who can call you. The conversation done on these devices cannot be listened to since they are impossible to hack. Don't lose it because its cost will come out of your salary. Also, if a demon gets his filthy hands on it, the phone will self-distract in two minutes. The phone films everything, giving us priceless intel of the battle. This is also how we determine your payment. You can edit the footage a bit. Some warriors don't want to reveal their style or some of their abilities, though if you overdo it with deletion you might be punished."
Metsuhai put the battle phone in his pocket. "There are several kinds of missions," explained Ando "there are the patrols. Typically done in teams, fighters secure locations with strategic importance or places where civilian population could be in danger. Quite often they are sent to act as a living wall between areas where the barrier is temporarily weakened and civilians. Sometimes they don't get to fight at all. Other times they are the only ones standing between the monsters and the people. Every warrior who works on the field does a patrol from time to time. There are also the extermination missions. These are the most dangerous, since this occurs only when there was a confirmed border crossing. A demon with unknown power, probably D class, was seen and the warrior goes to exterminate. Here battle is almost guaranteed. The last kind of missions are the hunting missions. The warrior goes to actively search for the enemy in areas suspected to have enemy activity. These include places the future telling guild recommends, spots the scientists agree the barrier is weaker or unconfirmed reports from locals. Not always you get a choice, but what kind of mission interest you right now?
Metsuhai thought it over shortly. "Extermination mission it is."
"Unfortunately we are overwhelmed with work and there are urgent matters to be done before we can give you one. But since you clearly want a fight, I'll send you to notoriously dangerous hunting ground."
"Thank you," replied Metsuhai and saluted.
Metsuhai entered the shaking army helicopter, wearing all his battle gear. This included his sword, shield, chainmail armor, leather boots and battle phone, attached to his belt that was tied around his armor. He also wore two backpacks: one which contained supplies (mainly food and water) in case he doesn't return to the extraction point in time, the other was a parachute.
The chopper was dense with warriors. Metsuhai quickly took his sit, allowing the few warriors still not inside to get in. Almost all seats were taken by armor wearing men. They were armed with various cold weapons and all had backpacks and battle phones. Soon everyone was seated uncomfortably except a one eyed old man, wearing camouflaged clothing with a single blue stripe on his shoulder strap. He held-on to a rubber strip on the ceiling while the chopper took off, shouting over the noise of the engines:" men, you go into battle! Show no mercy since you shall receive none. If you get seriously wounded or cornered call for aid, will reinforce you as soon as we can. The order doesn't leave men behind!"
The helicopter shook violently, perhaps due to turbulence. Or was it something else?
The mission commander scanned the seated men with his one working eye.
"Looking good, soldiers… The mission today is on 'the sandy circle', a tiny round island off the shore of Yokohama. Most Japanese don't know this place exists but there are a few locals, most with enlightened eyes. Naturally if they are in danger you are to protect them with your life. They are brave patriots living in a warzone. In five hours from now the chopper comes back for you. Your phones will show you where to go. If you are late, you'll be considered missing in action and will get stuck on hostile territory with no way out."
"First checkpoint incoming!" shouted the pilot into the speaker, his voice echoing through the chopper. "Listen up!" shouted the one eyed man even louder than before, "We're flying low today, so when you jump, count to two and pull the strip. Your parachute should open instantly. If not, use the reserve. As long as you open a chute before four seconds pass you'll be fine. Do you understand?"
"Yes sir!" answered everyone almost in unison.
"Good luck!" he shouted, looking right at Metsuhai.
"Checkpoint!" announced the pilot.
"Go man!" shouted the commander at the warrior closest to him as he pulled the lever, opening the steel exit door. Powerful cold wind stormed in, stealing Metsuhai breath. The designated warrior unfastened his seatbelt, saluted and jumped off.
"Next!" declared the army commander almost immediately and another soldier jumped out. Metsuhais heart pounded strongly in his chest. He never sky-dived before. The little explanation the one eyed commander gave was all he had. It was not very reassuring. But his turn arrived soon and he forced himself to leave the supposed safety of the helicopter.
…It felt amazing. The wind in his face, the pressure in his ears. The amazing scenery. The clouds. It was like cutting through the sky. If it wasn't for his clear understanding that he is going to war Metsuhai would have probably enjoyed it. There was also the fear of falling to his death. The ground was approaching fast. Metsuhai opened his parachute. For a moment nothing happened, but before he sent his hand to the reserve parachute his fall slowed down as the thick cloth unfolded above him. Metsuhai released a relieved breath he didn't knew he was holding. Now he had the time to look down. Beneath him was a lovely beach island, looking like a tourist attraction. Exotic beach with large waves breaking on a long strip of large rocks, piled up one on top of the other. It looked perfect. There was but one thing missing: not a single person was in sight. As he drifted downwards, moving across the shore he noticed a large housing area, with concrete buildings. It was part of the small island city.
Metsuhais feet touched the sand as he struggled to remove the parachute off him. Eventually he managed to fold and put it back into the backpack. I should leave the bags here, carrying them everywhere is uncomfortable. Metsuhai turned off his battle phone camera and buried both backpacks in the sand, using his lifting sorcery spell for the job. He turned the camera back on as soon as he was done. He marked the place with a small pile of stones since this area looked like any other part of the beach. He'll take the backpacks with him when the mission ends unless he'll need them sooner.
Metsuhais steps on the sand made no sound as he made his way from the beautiful shore to the local settlement. At first his hand hovered above the hilt of his sword. He didn't really expect to be attacked immediately but something about the city reminded him his previous adventure in Tokyo. But after walking for a few minutes he forced himself to relax. Maybe I won't even have to fight. Metsuhai immediately got angry with himself. He chose this, although without a lot of alternatives. He came here to fight. That's his way to survive. As Metsuhai moved on the pavement beyond the beach, a strong yellow explosion erupted on the closest street. The city was shaken. Metsuhai increased his walking speed. Explosions further in the city could be heard but not seen. A massive bomber unloaded a series of bombes, one after another. They exploded far within the unfortunate place. Metsuhai passed a store with broken windshield. On his right were damaged tall buildings. His hand moved in the direction of the sword once more. This felt like Tokyo all over again. Metsuhai walked among the many bodies of the fallen, mostly civilians. It's always like this. The innocent suffer first. He heard a weak sound of cry. Metsuhai began running to the direction of the sound. Surrounded by corpses, on her knees sat a little girl, crying loudly. Her dress stained with blood. By Metsuhais presumption she wasn't older than ten. Metsuhai rushed to her, bent his knee to be on similar height, putting his hand on her shoulder. "It's okay, you are safe now."
The little girl stopped crying and looked right into Metsuhais eyes. But it wasn't a childs expression. She meant business. In an instant the small hands closed around Metsuhais neck with unnatural force, far beyond that of a child. Far beyond that of an adult. Metsuhai couldn't breathe. He was confused, overwhelmed. He needed to think fast. Possession, He realized the terrible truth, I heard of this on the lectures and saw it in the hospital. The girl tightened her grip further. Her small hands as if trying to dig into his neck. Metsuhai hesitated striking the poor controlled child and his hands tried desperately to free his breath. He needed air now. His sight blurred. The pain in Metsuhais lungs became unbearable. Metsuhai estimated he has but a few seconds before he collapses. No! I'm not ready to go just yet! In a desperate attempt Metsuhai tore off the hands from his neck, throwing the girl back. Metsuhai regained his breath fast. What do I do now? Metsuhai appeared behind the girl knocking her out with an openhanded strike to the back of the head. The unconscious girl collapsed gently. Now how do I get the demon out? But this was not the problem. "Weak!" a manly hoarse voice declared. A dark crimson figure was making its way out of the collapsed child, as if born. He was standing on four and built like a champion body builder on steroids. He was a mountain of meet. From time to time smoke was leaving his mouth, filled with sharp teeth across a yellow interior. He resembled the first demon Metsuhai met but had darker skin and four small horns. Metsuhai felt like he is touching something hard and unpleasant though the demon was quite far.
Lezner was right, they really are bigger. Metsuhai thought this to distract himself from his own fear. The demon roared in anger and started closing in (conversation was short). This is a crusher, Metsuhai remembered the lecture about demon kind, a race of demons specializing in brute force. At least they usually don't use weapons. Metsuhai sent his sword on the charging beast. But the shallow cut barely slowed him down. The crusher would have torn Metsuhais body to pieces if Metsuhai hadn't put the shield on the way just in time. Metsuhai fearfully looked as the dark crimson claw-covered muscular arm closed around the upper edge of his shield. With a sharp move the crusher tore the shield out of Metsuhais hand, throwing it far. Metsuhai kicked the demon as hard as he could. The crusher shook his head and roared with protest. (well, at least it slowed him down) it can't be. Last time my kick sent the crusher flying back. It's not fair.
The crusher sent his fist right at Metsuhais face. Good that Metsuhai automatically dodged at the last moment. The fist barely touched him leaving a bleeding scratch. Metsuhai swung his blade repeatedly hitting his opponent, and what's more important keeping him down. A few slowly bleeding wounds resulted. Dark red, almost brown blood was slowly making his way out. Then the crusher counterattacked. A devastating fist smashed into Metsuhais stomach. He spat blood and was sent flying back. If not for the armor I'd be dead meat. Metsuhai wanted to get up, but there was no time. The crusher was almost on top of him. Metsuhai was crawling back desperately, trying to reach the shield lying a few meters away. At least the sword was still in his hand. The crusher was taking his time. Knowing he already won. But a miracle happened. As Metsuhai tried to get back to his feet the crusher jumped, intending to land on him and finish this. To his misfortune he landed right on top of that sword, piercing him from side to side. The demon landed right on top of Metsuhai, but he was stunned from pain that even he could not endure. Blood kept spilling all over Metsuhais armor and face. man that was heavy. Metsuhai kicked the demon off himself. His sword still stuck inside. Now the blood was pouring like a river. Metsuhai ran and grabbed his shield. The crusher was roaring in pain. He was in no shape to fight. He desperately tried to pull the sword out of his bulky body. Suddenly an idea stroke Metsuhai. That reminds me. Metsuhai roared, powering himself up. His energy circulated around his body, making him strong. He looked at the agonizing opponent with determination. Metsuhai aimed his left hand at the crusher. I'll end your suffering, cursed being. Metsuhai launched a huge pure white energy beam. His opponent roared a final roar "Noooo!" as the energy detonated. And it was over. The crusher lay dead in a pool of his own blood.
Metsuhai fearlessly approached the deceased monster and with great effort drew out the sword, pressing on the corpse with his foot. As hard as training is, it's nothing compared to battle. The corpse began to disappear slowly. Metsuhai spat demon blood. Nausea overpowered Metsuhai, causing him to puke dark red liquid. Metsuhai remembered the lecture on his third training day. He was tired and half asleep because he over trained and was barely listening to the lector. The old man monotonically spoke:" demon blood has great value. It has many alchemical properties. However, it is extremely toxic. Don't drink it, even though they will drink your blood."
Metsuhai reflected upon what transpired. He was filled with guilt and rage. He was angry at his performance. I did everything wrong. Played right into his hands. He would have killed me if he wouldn't kill himself first. Metsuhai thought about how carelessly he approached the girl, how he didn't power up in the beginning of the fight and that he could use sorcery to retrieve his shield. Metsuhai drew out his battle phone, for a moment intending to erase everything, but stopped. He needed the money, and didn't care that much about what others would say. If Lezner saw this fight he would choke on his cigar.
Metsuhai walked in the city with his sword drawn, blood still dripping from it. He promised himself not to shame himself in battle again. He passed a half collapsed building, noticing some movement. Metsuhai stepped in, prepared for anything. To his surprise, four firearms were aimed at him. Four armed man with worn clothes looked at him with distrust. A twelve year old armed with a small gun and a big knife, who stood with the men, saluted Metsuhai and said loudly "go get them!"
Metsuhai saluted back, feeling pride for doing pretty much the most dangerous job in the world. Giving hope to these people and humanity. Metsuhai smiled and kept walking. These brave civilians were under attack yet refused to back down. They chose to defend their homes with their lives. That was worth respect.
A wrecked car, lacking a tire and with broken windows was turned upside down, blocking some of the pavement. Somewhere far away another explosion sounded. Metsuhai lifted his gaze and spotted a wicked looking bat creature. Four wings, one eye and big front teeth. Not a pleasant sight. Metsuhai aimed his palm and released a wide white stream. The bat tried dodging but the stream was just too wide. The light engulfed the tiny opponent. The bat squeaked his last. Metsuhai checked the time on his battle phone. It was 16:33. I still have time. A humming sound put Metsuhai on guard. It was a large armored truck, driving through the battlefield. The driver was a tough Russian- looking mature man with a massive Kazak mustache, wearing military outfit and a bulletproof vest. On the seat beside him lay an unusually large rifle. On top of the truck were stationed two teenagers in full armor. One holding a long lance and the other twin gladius swords in their hilts. How do children like me get dragged into this? Metsuhai understood right away this was one of the many supply trucks, delivering essential supplies to the locals. Water, food, medicine, ammunition and more. The truck stopped next the half-collapsed building and both young fighters unloaded a few crates in front of the defenders. Then the truck moved on, driving far beyond the allowed speed.
After this incident Metsuhai walked around the city for some time. He encountered more people with guns, cracked roads, houses in bad shape and smashed cars. Metsuhai knew something is approaching him. He didn't really know how, he just knew. A small snake with three eyes was silently closing in on his foot. Metsuhai only saw him at the very last moment. The snake struck in a split second. Somehow Metsuhai instinctively reacted, cutting the creature in half just before those venomous teeth would close around his foot. Out of the open sewer entrance crawled-out a whole pack of snakes, as if the sewers were throwing up. The serpents charged forward, relying on their numbers. Metsuhai took battle stance. Metsuhais sword whistled through the air. He cut a snake with every swing- cutting them in half. Soon Metsuhai stood breathing hard on top of a pile of bettered snakes.
It seemed that one sneak didn't charge. Metsuhai turned his attention to the last snake
"Wait! Wait human," said the sneak with a childs voice. Metsuhai looked a bit surprised.
"We are living creatures," continued the talking snake, "There's more similarity in us than meets the eye. We both feel pain. Can't you let me go? One snake more, one snake less, doesn't change much. Doesn't make a difference."
Metsuhai sliced the snake in half. "No, it makes all the difference."
The decapitated head of the snake spoke "we are gonna win the war, and you are all going to be eaten!" and his eyes lost all expression.
Metsuhai started to understand how bad his situation really was. He was alone, surrounded by numerous deadly foes, tired, hurt, and in addition his spider mark was acting again.
Metsuhai kept walking throw the city. If I was asked a few weeks ago whether I'd want to fly in army helicopters, sky dive and fight evil using powers I barely understand the answer would be a clear yes. But now I see how cruel this war really is. All the blood and pain. Sometimes I miss the good old days, that feel so far now, when life was simple. He brushed off his sweat. A noise of propellers sounded up in the sky. Soon a chopper flew above the tallest buildings. Metsuhai wanted to salute, but never got to. A fire ball hit the chopper, sending it crashing down far far away. Metsuhai moved in the direction of the fire attack. The attacker was far but there was still a lot of time until he had to be at the extraction point. He passed by a torn corpse of a man. He did his best not to look at it.
While Metsuhai was walking on the damaged street, some movement caught his attention.
A group of four grey beings was consulting about something in an alley. Half men, half mice. One of them was wearing a huge backpack. As Metsuhai moved forward one of the ratmen approached. It was strange that the grey guy didn't draw his curved blade. Metsuhai decided to do the same at least for now.
"Yo, human" the ratman called out.
"Ratman?" said Metsuhai, not knowing where this conversation is going.
"Let's discus business."
"Sure." Metsuhai kept watch on the three ratmen who stood silently, not doing much. Just looking to his direction.
"We are at war.," said the ratman as a matter of fact, "Surviving is tough. We have little children to feed. So while the war rages on, we are doing some work on the side… See that big bag. It's full of cocaine. If you want you can have some too."
"I'm not really into drugs."
"You know your bargain human, how much you want. Thousand bucks, two thousand maybe?"
The offer was tempting. I do need the money. Unfortunately the battle phone camera is on, both broadcasting and recording. Probably I'm not being watched, since they can't watch everyone all the time. But who knows. If I make a deal with these half humans I'll get into serious trouble. Metsuhai remembered how Chizue fought the ratman before. They are the enemy. If I start sparing enemies now I won't have a future as a warrior.
Metsuhai lowered his gaze with frustration "I can't."
"Fill him with lead boys!" the ratman ordered.
Out of nowhere, new models of rifles materialized in the hands of the ratmen. The ratmen opened fire with unchanged expressions. Filling the ground with shells. It was good Metsuhai reacted in time, jumping back, hiding behind an upside down car. I don't know if my chainmail armor can take it, and even if does, my head is exposed. The ratmen were shooting nonstop, making more and more holes in the car and Metsuhai, who hid behind it knew the car couldn't take much more. Metsuhai powered up, closing his eyes as the energy overflows him. A thin layer of white aura surrounds him. Next moment Metsuhai was gone.
The leader ratman gestured with his hand. The other ramen stopped shooting and approached the car with hesitation.
Metsuhai appeared behind one of them in a split second piercing him with his sword. As Metsuhai draws his sword out of the ratmans body, the ratman collapsed. Then Metsuhai pierced the second one and the third one.
The last ratman (the leader) drew his sword in the nick of time. A fencing exchange began. The ratman was skilled, but Metsuhai was just too fast. He put wound after wound until the ratman collapsed, mumbling something unclear. After short consideration, Metsuhai took one of their rifles and put it on his belt. This may be useful. He sent out a large yellow beam and vaporized the drug filled backpack. Metsuhai checked the time again. It was 17:24. He had until 20:00 at most.
Metsuhai proceeded to search enemies in the city. He was tired now, from using all that power. A rest would have been nice. But Metsuhai forced himself to keep moving on. He walked confidently, ignoring the burned corpses. His senses were warning him of danger, although anyone seeing this would be alarmed. Metsuhai squeezed through a narrow passage when a corpse lying on the side of the road talked to him. "Run, save yourself while you can," the burned from head to toe person Metsuhai mistook for a corpse forced himself to speak, "I tried to fight him, but he was too strong."
Metsuhai looked with compassion on the destroyed man. He was clearly beyond saving. Metsuhai stepped into a wide abandoned market square. On the other side stood a slender brown humanoid thing. His torso and groin were covered with fur. His arms ended with small blood covered claws. On his head were two tiny horns. And what a mean looking face. Like he was born to torture. Firestarter, Metsuhai recognized his race, he took down the chopper.
Metsuhai charged forward as fast as he could. Of course he wasn't powered up no more. He had to conserve stamina, otherwise his body couldn't take it. Long before he reached his opponent, the firestarter aligned his palm with the sky. A stream of fire rotated widely around his palm, condensing into a ball in the middle. He throw it to Metsuhais direction. Metsuhai avoided the attack and felt satisfied from how smovely the fight was going. Then the fireball detonated behind his back, throwing him off his feet. These fire balls are strong, no wonder the chopper couldn't take it. Metsuhai got up just to get blown away by another fireball. It's not like the firestarter was wasting time. Fortunately Metsuhai put his shield on the way in the nick of time. Metsuhai was dragged backwards by the overwhelming force of the explosion, surrounded by flames. The heat was intense but soon the flames went out. I have to change the flaw of this battle. The firestarter was attacking again. It seemed his attacks were not very diverse. Metsuhai fired a white energy beam, charged as usual with his faith magic. The beam collided with the fireball in a great blast, both attacks with similar force. Metsuhai charged through the smoke, with a new plan in mind. The firstarter already had another fireball above his hand. Perfect! Metsuhais hand got covered with yellow glow as his incredibly fast lifting spell began affecting the enemy. The firestarter wasn't torn to pieces. He wasn't even lifted or fell, but he did lose his balance and with it, the control of his own fireball. The fireball practically exploded in his hand, creating a river of fire. Metsuhai used this moment to reach the firestarter, sending his sword forward. The desperate firestarter instinctively sent his claws forward, but the sword was much faster- running him through the chest. Metsuhai stared right into his opponents eyes as the firestarter breathed his last. He was clearly in pain. Metsuhai pulled out his sword and walked away, turning his back to his fading opponent.
That's enough. I'm tired and wounded and have no strength to fight any more. Furthermore, the chopper is coming back soon, It's already nearly seven. I should get my gear and head to the extraction point. Metsuhai examined his shield thoroughly. It had a large dent not far from the middle and some scratches. It could use some repairs. Metsuhai walked fast in the direction of the earlier marked beach area, seeing once more the tormented city. The order should send more men here. The locals need all the help they can get. Metsuhai thought this even though he understood that if the order could do it, it would. This place just demonstrated how bad things were.
Metsuhai was walking on the pavement of the almost not inhabited city. The sunset already began. Suddenly Metsuhai heard a strange voice "hey you, can you hear me?" Metsuhai turned back and forth trying to pinpoint the one talking. The street was completely empty. Metsuhai put his hand on his swords hilt. "Where are you, I don't see anyone."
"Of course you can't see me," replied the soft voice "you never saw me…" Metsuhai was still trying to figure out where the sound comes from, cold sweat covering his face.
"…You will never see me. I was inside you all this time…" am I possessed? "…I am your conscience. And you are a terrible person."
"I don't believe you."
"You did a ritual duel and destroyed your parents home. No wonder they are not calling to you. They never want to see you again."
"No! My parents love me!"
"They don't call you. What's more, they bound your abilities. You have evil inside you. How else can you use demon magic. You almost caused humanitys demise once, dueling Phaulin, and this will happen again. You are a danger to humanity and furthermore, don't deserve to live. There is but one way out… pierce yourself with your sword. Pierce yourself through your heart." Metsuhai stood there shaken. Looking at his blade. Not knowing what to do.
"And it's going to get worse every hour," insisted the voice, "You must end this now!"
Metsuhai stood there paralyzed. His confidence smashed. His resolve gone. Or so it seemed. "Fuck the humanity, I don't care!" he shouted with rage.
"No!" shouted the voice, "You will kill your loved ones with your own hands!"
Metsuhai swung his sword violently cutting throw the air "I knew you are not inside me," declared Metsuhai with fury, now that the load voice clearly came from the outside. The invisible demon was surprised and lost his concentration for a moment. Metsuhai saw for a split second the very blurred horned image. "Braaak! I have to do everything myself" hissed the demon as he disappears. Metsuhai attacked immediately, sending his sword to where his opponent just stood. His sword cut only the air.
"Show yourself, coward!" Metsuhai called out in rage. No answer followed.
Next something hit Metsuhai in the lower center of the chest. Metsuhai spat blood (it wasn't as strong as with the crusher, but still painful). Metsuhai swung his sword hitting nothing again.
Now his back was hit hard, pushing him forward (that was so painful!). Metsuhai shot a white beam that exploded strongly, again hitting nothing. I can still sense his energy! Metsuhai tried to concentrate, sensing all energy around him. He sensed nothing. Metsuhai received a blow to the balls "nice try," mocked the invisible foe.
Metsuhai bent down in pain. Metsuhai sent more light beams, missing.
"Our power difference is unbridgeable. There is nothing you can do."
Metsuhai received a kick to the knee. Not only he lost his balance, the pain was horrible.
Metsuhai roared in anguish. Immediately his power went up. Maybe if I power up, something changes. It will exhaust me… Well, what else can I do. Metsuhai roared more and his energy got even stronger.
"It doesn't matter how much you power up. Not against repeated blows to weakness points." Metsuhai received repeated blows nonstop. He got hit to the head, to the torso, to his back, to his knees. He spat blood. "I had enough fun. Time to end this." Metsuhai heard the sound of a drawn blade. It can't end like this. I'm not ready to die yet! Metsuhai roared. He squeezed every muscle in his body, using every drop of energy he got left. It felt so hot and a bit ticklish too. To Metsuhai surprise suddenly his sight completely changed. He didn't know this. But his eyes were glowing blue, even if just a little bit. Everything was more lit and defined. Metsuhai saw in 360 degrees and to a great distance. He finally saw the horned guy again, still completely blurred. As if Metsuhai barely saw his silhouette. He was coming to pierce Metsuhai from behind (and what a coward) I…I can see. Metsuhai moved swiftly, taking his opponent by surprise, piercing him through the heart one instant before he was supposed to be pierced.
"Where did I went wrong," mumbled the fast fading demon. He was disappearing fast, while still invisible. Metsuhai never got to see the demons true self. Metsuhai struggled with tears. So this is how war is like.