Kiyozawa: "W-What do you mean, you're going to take my father's power?"
*He stutters, his eyes widening in shock and disbelief.*
Kiyozawa: "Why would you want such a thing?"
*He takes a step back, his heart racing as he tries to process the cult leader's words.*
Axel: "The power of a Death Angel is incredibly valuable."
*He explains calmly, his expression unchanging.*
Axel: "It would be foolish not to acquire it. Especially when the king of Death Angels is right here."
*He pauses, tilting his head slightly as he observes Kiyozawa's shocked and horrified reaction.*
Axel: "He did try to kill you."
*He reminds Kiyozawa coldly.*
Axel: "But that's beside the point. Power is power, and I intend to take what is most precious."
*He takes a step closer to Kiyozawa, his hand still outstretched expectantly.*
Axel: "You will help me."
*He snaps his fingers, instantly replaying the traumatic memory of Kiyozawa's adopted father mercilessly slashing his life force again and again. As the agonizing scene unfolds before Kiyozawa's eyes.*
Kiyozawa: "Okay, I'll help you."
*He tears up, his eyes filled with unshed tears as he watches the memory unfold before him, feeling overwhelmed and heartbroken all over again. He can't help but break down.*
Axel: "I'm assuming that's a yes from you, correct?"
*The calm tone of the goat cult leader's voice was almost unnerving as he turned to Kiyozawa, his piercing gaze never wavering. He stated, his words carefully measured, each one dripping with an unsettling confidence.*
Kiyozawa: "I'll make the first move."
*He murmured softly, spreading his large, onyx-black wings wide. With a sudden burst of energy, he launched himself downwards, his senses heightened as he scanned the tunnel for his father, locked in battle with a menacing demon along with someone else.*
*The cult leader's eyes narrowed as he observed Kiyozawa's sudden flight towards the tunnel. His wings disappeared as abruptly as they had appeared when Kiyozawa entered the dimly lit passageway and halted abruptly. Tears welled up in his eyes as he stood frozen, merely watching the brutal battle unfold before him.*
Kiyozawa: "Father..."
*His voice was barely above a whisper, filled with a mix of emotion and urgency. Suddenly, he let out a piercing screech, the sound waves cutting through the air like a knife, directly targeting Zentarō's location amidst the chaos of the demon battle.*
*Upon hearing the heart-wrenching screech, Zentarō paused his fierce battle with the demon, allowing Hayden to continue alone. He turned slowly, his eyes locking onto Kiyozawa, his beloved adopted son whom he had once attempted to take from this world.*
Zentarō: "Kiyozawa..."
*Zentarō stood his ground, his expression a complex mix of regret and longing as he gazed at Kiyozawa, the son he had once tried to extinguish. His voice was steady, laced with an underlying current of emotion.*
Zentarō: "Kiyozawa... I've been searching for you."
Kiyozawa: "Father..."
*His voice trembled slightly despite his calm demeanor as he met Zentarō's gaze.*
Kiyozawa: "...I've been searching for you too."
*His wings fluttered gently behind him, betraying the turmoil within.*
*Zentarō's expression darkens at the word 'Father'. He hadn't earned that title from Kiyozawa, not after what he did. His hands clenched into fists at his sides.*
Zentarō: "Don't call me that. You lost the right to call me Father."
*His voice was cold and distant.*
Kiyozawa: "That's right..."
*His voice cracked, a single tear rolling down his cheek.*
Kiyozawa: "...You tried to end my life. The life of the son you were supposed to protect and love."
*His wings drooped, the weight of his father's betrayal heavy upon them.*
*Zentarō's eyes flickered away from Kiyozawa's gaze, guilt and regret swirling in their depths. He knew he couldn't escape the truth of what he had done. When he looked back at Kiyozawa, his expression was one of grim determination.*
Zentarō: "I did."
*Kiyozawa unsheathed his sword smoothly, his voice echoing sharply through the tunnel.*
Kiyozawa: "No hard feelings, but..."
*He paused, steeling himself.*
Kiyozawa: "...I'm taking your power."
*His eyes hardened, mirroring the cold blade in his hand.*
Kiyozawa: "It's not like you need it anymore."
Zentarō: "..."
*His eyes narrowed dangerously as he saw the sword being drawn. He knew Kiyozawa's skills, knew how deadly he could be.*
Zentarō: "Your technique's improved... Expected nothing less."
*He readies his own weapon, but something in his tone changed*
Zentarō: "You don't have to do this..."
Kiyozawa: "I must."
*He replied calmly, his grip tightening around the hilt of his sword.*
Kiyozawa: "For what you did to me... For the pain and the betrayal. Your power is the only thing I want from you now."
*His voice was steady, betraying none of the turmoil inside him.*
*Zentarō's heart clenched at the accusation. He had hurt his son deeply, and now he was reaping the consequences.*
Zentarō: "I know what I did..."
*He stepped forward, sword in hand*
Zentarō: "But I won't let you take my power without a fight."
*Without hesitation, Kiyozawa unleashed his screech, a deafening sound wave that ripped through the air towards Zentarō. The force was palpable, carrying all the pain and anger pent up within him.*
*Zentarō's eyes widened as he felt the sound waves hit him, his ears ringing painfully. He staggered back, temporarily disoriented. His sword arm dropped slightly, giving Kiyozawa an opening.*
Zentarō: "Fuck..."
*He growled, trying to shake off the disorientation and defend himself.*
*As the sound wave hit, Zentarō stumbled back, temporarily disoriented. Seizing the opportunity, Kiyozawa darted forward, his sword singing through the air. He swung it with all his might, aiming for a clean decapitation, his face set in a grim expression.*
*Zentarō barely managed to block the sword swing with his own blade, feeling the force behind it. His son's strength had grown significantly. They clashed swords several times in rapid succession, each impact sending vibrations through their arms.*
Zentarō: "Kiyozawa... stop!"
*The clash of steel echoed loudly in the tunnel as Kiyozawa relentlessly attacked, his movements fueled by suppressed anger and hurt. Each swing of his sword was precise and powerful, driven by the desire to end Zentarō's life and take his power.*
Kiyozawa: "Die!"
*Zentarō's breath came in harsh gasps as they fought. He was holding his own but could feel himself being pushed back. He knew he couldn't let Kiyozawa win - not like this. With a sudden burst of strength, he pushed forward, knocking their swords aside.*
Zentarō: "Enough!"
*The force of Zentarō's repel sends Kiyozawa stumbling backward, his foot catching on a loose stone. As he struggles to maintain his balance, his eyes lock onto his father's face - the face he'd once loved unconditionally.*
Kiyozawa: "You..."
*Zentarō grabbed Kiyozawa by the collar with his free hand, pulling him close. Their faces were inches apart, breaths mingling.*
Zentarō: "I said STOP."
*His voice was a low, dangerous growl. Behind them, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed.*
Zentarō: "Listen to me..."
Kiyozawa: "Why should I listen to you?"
*He cried out, tears streaming down his face.*
Kiyozawa: "After everything you've done to me, how can you expect me to just... just forget it all? You tried to kill me, Father!"
*Zentarō's heart shattered at the sight of his son crying. He pulled Kiyozawa into a tight embrace, ignoring the pain in his ribs from the earlier clash of swords.*
Zentarō: "I know I hurt you... I know I was wrong."
*He whispered brokenly, holding his son close.*
*Kiyozawa's arms reached out to embrace his father, tears blurring his vision. But suddenly, a dark figure appeared behind Zentarō - the goat cult leader, his eyes glowing with malevolence. Before Kiyozawa could react, the leader began absorbing Zentarō's power.*
*Zentarō's eyes widened in shock as he felt his power being drained. Weak and vulnerable, he turned to look at Kiyozawa with horrified eyes. He saw the heartbreak etched on his son's face - the same face he had once cherished and loved above all else.*
Kiyozawa: "Father..."
*He choked out, tears pouring down his face as he watched the cracks spreading across his father's face like a spider web. It was as if Zentarō was slowly disappearing, his very existence fading away.*
Kiyozawa: "No, please... Father, no..."
*He sobbed, reaching out desperately.*
*With a final stab through the chest using Kiyozawa's own sword, Zentarō shattered into countless pieces, his form disintegrating completely. The goat cult leader laughed manically, holding Kiyozawa's sword stained with his father's essence. Kiyozawa froze, his tears freezing mid-fall.*
*The goat cult leader turned to Kiyozawa with a cold smile, dropping the blood-stained sword at his feet.*
Axel: "Looks like you have your revenge now, boy."
*His voice was calm and mocking. Behind him, Hayden suddenly noticed the scene and tried to rush forward, but it was too late.*
*Kiyozawa's voice trembled as he confronted the goat cult leader, his face contorted with grief and confusion.*
Kiyozawa: "Why did you kill him?!"
*He screamed, his hands shaking violently.*
Kiyozawa: "My father... my own father is dead because of YOU!"
Axel: "Why did I kill him?"
*He chuckled darkly, stepping closer to Kiyozawa.*
Axel: "That power was too pure, too immense. It would have been a waste if it stayed with one man. Now, it belongs to a greater cause."
*Kiyozawa broke down completely, falling to his knees as sobs racked his entire body.*
Kiyozawa: "Father... I'm sorry... I'm so sorry..."
*His tears fell onto the now-empty ground where Zentarō had stood moments before.*
*As the goat cult leader vanished into thin air, leaving no trace behind, Kiyozawa was left alone to grapple with his overwhelming emotions. The world around him seemed to fade away as he knelt there, consumed by grief and regret.*
(At South Orbrea in the border).
*The black flames intensified, fueled by the pent-up rage he harbored against both his sister and the Heaven Orb King. Despite knowing he couldn't possibly defeat the Heaven Orb King, one desire burned even brighter—he desperately wanted to kill his sister.*
Mochizuki: "Sister, come out and play!"
*He channeled his black flames into the wall, creating a large, gaping hole through the border.*
*He continuously let the black flames consume his body, literally burning himself alive.*
Mochizuki: ''Show yourself!!!"
*His voice boomed like thunder across the border.*
Aiko: "Of course it would be you, Mochizuki."
*She said mockingly, her eyes filled with derision as she looked at him.*
Aiko: "I suppose you've come for revenge, since I've always been the 'perfect' child, haven't I?"
Aiko: "Honestly."
*She continued with a smirk.*
Aiko: "It was nice when Heaven Orb King chose you Mochizuki to be his personal toy instead of me when we were kids. It's been quite enjoyable watching you suffer while I got all the attention."
*Her words dripped with venomous satisfaction.*
Mochizuki: "Makes sense, you damn bitch."
*He growled angrily. He instantly unleashed his black flames, hurtling straight towards Aiko like a deadly comet. His expression was murderous.*
Mochizuki: "You're such a—"
*He cut himself off, too enraged to speak coherently.*
Aiko: "Oh, you want to know why you were chosen as Heaven Orb King's little plaything, Mochi?"
*She taunted, her smirk widening as she looked at her brother.*
Aiko: "It's because you couldn't control your stupid flames. Unlike me, who can wield them with perfect precision."
Aiko: "Let me show you the difference between a true fire master and a pathetic flame-throwing brute."
*She whispered seductively, appearing directly in front of Mochizuki. Her blue flames erupted, burning him severely before she kicked him strongly, sending him tumbling backwards with a scream.*
*Mochizuki extinguished his black flames, his body charred and smoking. He opened his eyes, fixing Aiko with a gaze filled with pure hatred.*
Aiko: "I think I should end your miserable existence once and for all."
*She declared coldly, channeling her flames to their absolute maximum power. The intensity was blinding, the temperature scorching enough to melt metal instantly. She raised her hands, aiming the concentrated blast directly at Mochizuki.*
*In that moment, Mochizuki closed his eyes, accepting his fate with grim resignation. But just as the searing heat began to envelop him, a memory of Kaien flashed through his mind like a beacon of hope.*
Mochizuki: "That's right. I promise him I come back"
*He whispered silently to himself, remembering his promise.*
*In that moment, the blue flames abruptly ceased. Aiko collapsed to the floor, coughing up blood from an unseen attack. She looked up, her eyes wide with shock and pain, to see a teenage boy—no more than sixteen years old—standing protectively in front of Mochizuki.*
Aiko: "Who the hell are you?"
*She demanded, her voice hoarse from the blood in her throat as she struggled to move, her body wracked with pain.*
Mochizuki: "..."
*Mochizuki stared in shock, his eyes wide with disbelief as he beheld the familiar face of Kaien standing protectively before him.*
Mochizuki: "Kaien..."
*He whispered softly, his voice filled with emotion and shock. The name fell from his lips like a prayer, a desperate plea for reality to make sense. Aiko's eyes narrowed, her gaze flicking between Mochizuki's stunned face and Kaien's stance.*
Kaien: "I followed you... I noticed how angry you were, so I had to come with you,"
*He stammered out, his voice breaking with emotion. Tears streamed down his face as he finally spoke the words he'd been holding back for so long.*
Kaien: "I know I was awkward around you..."
*His voice choked with emotion, used his power to heal the burns on Mochizuki, transferring the pain and injury onto himself. As he did so, tears streamed down his face uncontrollably, his body trembling with the effort and the weight of his feelings.*
Mochizuki: "Kaien, you don't have to do that!"
*He shouted, reaching out to grab Kaien's arm desperately. But Kaien shook his head firmly, his eyes filled with determination. He used his power once more, this time transferring the burns onto Aiko.*
*Aiko was too injured to pursue them, her body wracked with pain and shock. She couldn't believe that someone so young could possess such a strong ability. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she watched Kaien's selfless act, her mind struggling to comprehend the extent of his power.*
*Mochizuki's hatred for his sister had completely faded in that moment, replaced by a profound gratitude and affection towards Kaien. He swiftly grabbed Kaien's hand, pulling him away from the scene before Aiko's guards could arrive. His grip was firm yet gentle as he led Kaien away.*
(In his mind).
"He came just for me..."
*His crystal on his chest flashing once more, a subtle sign that his heart was racing. He felt his face heating up as he blushed deeply, realizing the truth of his feelings.*
"I think I'm falling for him,"
(Out of his mind).
(At the Town That Never Stops Bleeding).
*Hiromi charges forward towards the female cult member, her fist cutting through the air as she unleashes a powerful punch. A gust of wind follows the trajectory of her blow, sending a forceful wave straight towards the demonic form of Lust.*
Lujuria: "You can't win without killing me!"
*She taunts, narrowly dodging Hiromi's first attack. She quickly backpedals, only for Hiromi to reappear right in front of her, landing a powerful uppercut that sends the cult member's body several feet into the air.*
(In her mind).
"How can this be? Even with Lust's power, I can't win! She managed to hit me. No, I'm not losing to her. I have to kill her for my Leader's plan!"
*She begins to form razor-sharp blades from thin air, her eyes filled with manic determination.*
(Out of her mind).
*Hiromi immediately channels fifty percent of God's power, but the moment a thought of murderous intent crosses her mind, the energy dissipates completely. Her eyes widen in shock as she feels the razor-sharp blades slice through her flesh.*
(In her mind).
"What just happened? I guess when I thought about actually killing her, it stopped the power from working."
*She stumbles backwards, blood dripping from multiple wounds.*
*The female cult member advances, her blades gleaming menacingly in the light.*
Lujuria: "You're not even half as strong as I thought,"
"I'm sorry for thinking that way, Lord. I promise I won't let my thoughts wander to such dark places again."
*Hiromi focuses her mind, erasing any trace of murderous intent. She slowly regains access to God's power, feeling its energy coursing through her veins once more.*
(Out of her mind).
*Hiromi channels fifty percent of God's power, the seven colors swirling around her fist like a miniature galaxy. She charges towards the female cult member with blinding speed. Lujuria responds by focusing her own energy, creating a barrier of dark energy to block Hiromi's attack.*
*The clash of Hiromi's God's power and Lujuria's dark power results in a catastrophic explosion that shakes the entire town. Buildings crumble, windows shatter, and the ground trembles violently. A massive crater forms where the two energies collided, smoke and debris filling the air.*
Lujuria: "..."
*She staggers back, her arm badly injured from the explosion. She glares at Hiromi with pure hatred and disbelief.*
Lujuria: "Impossible... You should be dead!"
*She clutches her wounded arm, dark energy flickering unstable around her.*
Lujuria: "Lust..."
*She growls angrily.*
(In her mind).
Axel: "You're not strong enough. That's disappointing."
*Axel's voice echoes in Lujuria's mind, calm and commanding. She feels a sudden, overwhelming sense of weakness and despair wash over her as Axel's presence infiltrates her thoughts. Her powers begin to fade, her dark energy dissipating like mist in sunlight.*
(Out of her mind).
Lujuria: "Silence, fool!"
*She hisses, her eyes burning with malice. She turns her gaze to the tunnel, spotting a sobbing figure - the second link, vulnerable and alone. A wicked grin spreads across her face as she channels the remnants of Lust's power.*
Lujuria: "The second link must be so important to you, huh Axel!"
*She screams, her voice dripping with venom. She shapes the last of Lust's power into a gleaming sword of dark energy. Her eyes dart between Hiromi and the tunnel where Kiyozawa who's in despair.*
Hiromi: "Is that... Kiyozawa?"
*She whispers to herself, her heart pounding. She watches in horror as Lujuria hurls the dark energy sword towards the tunnel entrance. Without hesitation, Hiromi unleashes seventy-five percent of God's power, darting forward to intercept the weapon.*
*With lightning speed, Hiromi reaches Kiyozawa just in time, pulling him aside moments before Lujuria's sword strikes true.The dark energy blade misses its intended target but pierces another demon who had been battling Hayden nearby.*
Hiromi: "..."
*Hiromi's gaze meets Kiyozawa's, and memories of their first encounter flood her mind. She remembers his bitter words about the police only caring for God Orbs and disregarding Demonic Orbs. Today, she has proven him wrong by saving him.*
Kiyozawa: "Why did you... save me?"
*He stutters, his eyes wide with disbelief. He stares at Hiromi as if seeing her for the first time, trying to comprehend why she would intervene to protect him.*
Hiromi: "It's because a police officer's duty is to protect those who need help."
*She replies with a genuine smile, her eyes shining with sincerity. She extends a hand towards Kiyozawa, offering assistance despite the chaos and danger surrounding them.*
Lujuria: "AXEL, YOU BASTARD!"
*She screams at the top of her lungs. Slowly, she begins to collapse, her body losing its sensual curves as Lust's power leaves her completely. Axel has taken away her most dangerous weapon, leaving her weaker than before.*
Lujuria: "Damn him..."
This will continue in the next chapter.