"RETREAT!"
The shrouded blackened night flashed with explosions as billows of smoke reached high into the sky. Screams could be heard throughout the capital of South Korea, Seoul, as flames and destruction paint the once mighty infrastructure of the modern city. Loud gunfire and shouting could be heard as a fire fight against an unknown force takes place on a massive street where Korean infantry hold a barricade. Vehicles and armaments of many kinds lay abandoned on the battlefield as jet fighters blast through the sky. Lower on the ground, military drones whizzed past the troops while providing support with gunfire and explosive ordinance against the threat.
"FALL BACK! FALL BACK!" A commander yells out frantically for his soldiers to retreat as defensive fire pelts into the monsters approaching them. The remaining infantry proceed to run past him and into the encampment while their enemies continue to approach undaunted, the bullets bouncing off of their bodies as if they were being fired against steel. Their enemy, Galactic Golems: Their well armored and titanic bodies hold the texture of stone while a majority of their exterior appear covered in space phenomena. An explosion rings out as a building not too far away begins to collapse, a loud animalistic roar resounding in the background. The defensive units and turrets continue to fire at whatever targets they can find with their armaments as commands are hopelessly shouted across the battlefield.
Rushed footsteps are suddenly heard from behind the commander as he halts his gunfire to turn around. "Sir! We've lost contact with sectors 4 through 8! Reinforcements are delayed, the convoy was most likely destroyed by a group of Singularities!" A soldier with a communication device calls out to the man anxiously, his eyes darting back and forth between his commander and the enemy.
The old commander widens his eyes in disbelief as he immediately points toward their backline with a tense expression. "Sentry Squad! Regroup and head back toward the rally point! Inform the mechanics we can't hold sector 3 anymore!" The panicked yet firm commander yells out with urgency as a few of the troops retreat further into the encampment to begin preparing their escape route. The commander briefly glances back toward the approaching golems when a mortified voice suddenly screams out.
"COMMANDER! BEHIND US!" A soldier calls out in terror, bringing a few of his comrade's attention toward their backline. The sight that graced them caused their faces to pale and eyes to shrink in fear.
A group of black skulled wolf creatures with star-like apparitions covering their bodies burst through the right side of the base and begin their rampage. Screams ring out through the encampment as the backline gets picked off one by one from the sudden onslaught.
"STAR HOUNDS! PROTECT THE MECHANICS! BUY TIME FOR THE RETREAT!" A soldier shouts out in an attempt to refocus their attention while everyone's panic only begins to triple. They were getting flanked and their escape was now cut off. Everybody already knew, retreat was no longer an option. Another building explodes in the distance as shouts of retaliation continue to erupt from the soldiers in the encampment.
The commander glances back to his troops before staring off into the blackened sky with hopeless eyes as the golems continue their approach, plowing through the forward blockades. The once beautiful skyline of Seoul was now a shadow of its former glory, the buildings crumbling as fires and explosions could be seen far into the horizon. The commander's gun was no longer shooting or even aiming toward the enemy as it simply hung to his side. This was it. There was nothing they could do, nor would there be anything anyone could do... This was the end of humanity.
Suddenly, a young soldier runs up to the commander and grabs him by the shoulders before shaking him roughly. "COMMANDER! WHAT ARE YOUR ORDERS!? IF WE FALL THE REMAINING SECTORS WILL HAVE AN EVEN HARDER TIME! WE NEED TO BREAK THROUGH THE STAR HOUNDS AND REGROUP!" The commander, unresponsive, continues to stand in the grasp of the young man as he stares into his worried eyes blankly.
With a grimace, the younger soldier proceeds to hoist the commander onto his back in order to move him to a safer distance. After running further into the encampment the soldier sets the man down with a pained expression. The young soldier then looks around and notices that the drones were no longer being sent out, causing his face to pale even more. "Did the Star Hounds already get to the mechanics team? Without them we no longer have additional support..."
"THE BARRICADE IS DOWN! WE'RE OUT OF TIME!" A random soldier shouts, catching the young man's attention. The Galactic Golems had already reached the gate and began tearing through to enter their barely fortified camp as the remaining infantry fruitlessly attempted to defend from both sides.
"KEEP FIGHTING! DON'T STOP UNTIL YOU'RE LAST BREATH LEAVES YOU!" Another soldier screams out as bullets continue to fly toward both directions. The young soldier's standard rifle was empty and there were no extra supply units. The young man proceeded to look down at his singular weapon, a small pistol and one last clip remaining. It would do little to damage the hounds let alone the golems. A sudden thought breaks through into his mind before the young man shakes his head and glances over to his frozen commanding officer.
The older man leaned against a piece of the pavement with a somber expression, not even bothering to sit up fully. The young soldier could only stare in sadness as the former stature of their squadron's leader had been lost against the darkness. The Abyss had consumed almost all of South Korea. And now their city was at its near end. All that would remain after their loss would be Incheon and Seosan and the only support that they could have received would most likely not be arriving anymore. If the loss of contact with the neighboring nations indicated anything then it meant that the end was nearing, didn't it? Was this truly it? A random string of unfortunate occurrences that led to the fall of humanity? Were any of their allies faring better? Was the western side falling as well? The last thing he had heard was that they were fighting back viciously yet still losing ground. If they couldn't stop this invasion then how could anyone survive this?
As the Star Hounds continued to close in from the back and the Galactic Golems pushed through their front, the young man began to feel wet droplets fall down his cheek as he touched his face in a small bit of surprise. He hadn't cried all that much in his short life, but this... this was the first time he had ever cried as an adult. Just barely 20 before his life was changed forever. Was his mom even still alive? Wait... his mom? His mom? Oh...
The tears seemed to flow even harder than before as memories of his childhood began to pour into his mind while pangs of pain punched through his heart, filling the dark crevices inside his being with beautiful recollections. Joy, anger, sadness, fear, and disgust filled his very soul yet... despite all those differing emotions, every memory felt like it was more priceless than anything the world could offer...
The young man once again looked down at his gun in contemplation before growing angry, no, furious at himself... Was he really so much of a coward to have considered such a thought? While his brothers and sisters in arms fought valiantly to the end... Was he going to leave them behind in their final stand? With the shake of his head and the wipe of his tears, the soldier stands up on his two feet while loading a singular clip into his pistol. He then salutes to his fallen commander and faces toward the golems as the other soldiers all focus their fire onto the wolves, their weapons, ineffective against the stone-like beings. The young man stares at his pistol for a moment longer before nodding to himself. If he was going to die, he would die protecting what was most precious in his heart. Even if it was a long fading memory.
The golems were now through the barricade and ready to wreak havoc when suddenly... A lone soldier stood in front of them, his pistol raised in defiance against the insurmountable threat. "COME ON YOU UGLY B*STARDS! I'LL HOLD YOU BACK ALL ON MY OWN IF I HAVE TOO!" Tears no longer streamed down the man's face as unbridled rage filled the man's very being. The shortly halted golems proceed to move forward, uncaring of the insect before them.
The young soldier promptly unloads his pistol... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, Chk, Chk, CHK, CHK. The soldier winces. "Empty." The closest golem to him begins to raise its massive fist, ready to bring it down on the small and insignificant being.
"RAAAAAAHHH!" With a desperate resolve the man throws his pistol to the ground, raises his fist, and punches forward just as the giant's arm blasts toward him.
Wake Up
The young and valiant soldier did not survive. Neither did the remaining infantry that remained in the sector they had been tasked to defend. Sectors 2 through 8 of Seoul had fallen as one of the last bastions in South Korea, along with every other nation's remaining fortresses, began to take their last breaths.
North and South America. An astronomical alliance was built between the two continents as strife only forged a pact between them. The promise to support each other during the cruel and harsh times held strong between the nations as overseas support was no longer an available option. They could only rely on each other, though in the end, all that was left were a few war fortified lands still continuing their desperate struggle. Their coalition, battered and bruised, continued to wage war desperately with a dim light remaining in their vision... but, their hope slowly flickered and faded in the face of the Abyss as they began to fall.
Europe, Africa, and Asia. The many nations among the 3 continents had also banded together when the time called for it. Race became irrelevant as they simply became humans, putting down old rivalries and bitter memories for the sake of survival just as the western countries had. They valiantly fought to the bitter end and supported each other the best they could. But they lacked the ability to provide aid to one another efficiently as they had been the second to be hit the hardest. Australia was the first to fall as it had been unable to receive any support due to their isolated geography. They had also been the first to report the attacks. After Australia came the Asian continent. And then Africa and Europe. And finally, like a wildfire, the Americas were also forced into the mayhem of destruction. In the end, humanity sought an anguished victory, but could only find the Abyss staring back.
Wake Up
Yet... suddenly... When the humans took their last stand, a valiant battle where they would fight to the bitter end, a light of hope shined. As the remaining embers of humanity began to fall there lay a key to the problem at hand gifted to them by a system beyond their comprehension. By beings beyond their notice. A solution.
Wake Up
Humanity had been given the power of the Sacred Catalysts. The people that had survived up until now were given superhuman abilities, some even defying the laws of reality, completely changing the tides of the war.
Wake Up
Like a surge, the humans fought back with the power of their Sacred Catalysts until the Abyss became an afterthought. No longer did they have to live everyday in fear. No longer were they the weak and frail creatures they once were. No longer would they sit powerless against a force they couldn't fight against. For when the humans now stared into the Abyss... It blinked.
Wake Up
But... with the Abyss no longer being a threat to humanity, life moved on... A few decades. A couple of centuries. And people suddenly forgot what it was like to be afraid. People forgot what the past had endured. They had become... Complacent
Wake Up
Well that would change pretty soon. After all? What is a story without its strife? A victory with no challenge? A hope with no conflict?
WAKE UP
"Oi Ji-hu. Wake up. Now." A monotone yet clearly annoyed female voice calls out causing a young man to open his dark blue eyes drearily in the barely lit room.
The room he found himself in was a familiar sight as always. His numerous posters of various animated shows. His closet, filled with clothes, lazily opened and unorganized. His tinkering bench with broken pieces of scrap laying around along with his mechanical gear. And of course his PC, which was for some reason still on. "Ughhh. Who woke me... Oh." His eyes finally rested on a blackish-purple haired young lady with purple gray irises. She stood with a cold stare, her cybernetic arm dimly lighting up the darkness with an orange glow.
Ji-hu, a young male with messy black hair and abhorrent sleep schedule, finally sits up in his bed to get a better look at the one who had awakened him. The lights suddenly flick on causing the young man to flinch before covering his eyes while grimacing. "Aghhh... What time is it Mei? And why do you sound... upset?"
The now named Mei continues to glare coldly at Ji-hu, her dour mood becoming all the more prevalent. "It's 7:30 a.m. The time we were supposed to go out on a dungeon run you idiot." The young lady speaks with an irritated monotone as the now sheepish Ji-hu cringes for a moment before briefly looking to the side with a horrified expression plastered across his face.
Ji-hu glances over to his tinkering bench to distract his thoughts as he fidgets on his bed. "Ohhh... the dungeon raid... I agreed to that?" Ji-hu questions in uncertainty while desperately trying to avoid eye contact.
The unamused Mei gives an eye roll at her brother's cowardice as she grabs him by the collar of his shirt before lifting him out of his bed and onto a chair. Mei then proceeds to jab a finger into Ji-hu's face aggressively, causing the boy to wince. "Listen. YOU said that TODAY would be the best day to go. YOU are the one who told ME to wake up early for the dungeon. YOU asked for this Ji-hu." Mei finishes her irritated recollection of yesterday's events with a huff as the terrified Ji-hu cowers in his chair.
"I told you that you'd be too exhausted, but no, you said you'd be fine!" Mei mutters at Ji-hu with a tired expression as he cautiously uncovers his head and looks down shamefully at his lap. "Ah... I did say that, didn't I...?" Ji-hu draws out with an apologetic tone.
"Yes. You did." Mei glares deeply into Ji-hu's very sorry eyes without blinking. Ji-hu promptly shakes his head a few times before fully bowing down in his chair. "Ok ok! I'm sorry! I didn't expect to be up so late at night alright! Let's just call it off!"
Mei stares at Ji-hu for a few seconds before sighing exasperatedly. "Fine, don't come, but I'm still going. I didn't wake up this early for nothing." The disgruntled sibling mutters while shaking her head in disappointment before heading for the door.
"Thanks a bunch Mei! I promise it won't happen again!" Ji-hu grins in relief while watching Mei almost make her way out of his room before halting briefly.
"Sure. Like you haven't said that the past 5 times this month." Mei sarcastically mumbles under her breath while rolling her eyes once more. She then turns back to Ji-hu with a softer expression painting her face. "Take care of yourself, alright?"
Ji-hu proceeds to look into Mei's eyes, now filled with a hint of mild worry, as a soft smirk graces his face. "You too Mei. Don't do anything above your level." The young man's expression then quickly changes to a large grin as he holds a finger up. "Actually I should probably warn the Abyss. After all, the great gorilla Meihua is heading their way!"
The oblivious boy chuckles as Meihua gives him a quick glare before heading out the door, shutting it loudly and causing him to jump a little. Ji-hu sweat drops while turning to his computer to take care of his open tabs. "Not the best choice of words huh?"
The disgruntled Meihua could be seen exiting their semi-large apartment complex with an annoyed expression as she heads out for the presumed dungeon run. The cityscape of Seoul had changed drastically in the last 600 years. Technology advanced slower than anticipated due to the marvels of the Abyssal dungeons and Sacred Catalysts, though, this did not mean humanity refused the chance to invent new things. With many nations becoming united in the plight of the Abyss things surprisingly ended up staying that way even after the war. Korea was now unified once more though mostly due to the circumstances of the former Northern political party and their decisions during the war. In a turn of fortunate events many other conflicting nations wished to settle their differences in favor of a new and brighter future, however... This did not mean there weren't many who disagreed.
The forgetful young man's name is Ji-hu Kwon and the seemingly cold young lady is Meihua Yu. They are both agents in the International Hunters Index, a large international group that actively fights against Abyssal Disasters in dungeons. The Hunters make a living off of the monster's cores, a material dropped by defeated Disasters that can be used for almost anything. The International Hunters Index boasts a whopping 50 million Hunter operation that spreads out across all the corners of the Earth. The two siblings are both now 19 and have become fully fledged Hunters, earning them the right to clear higher level dungeons on their own. Though, at their own peril of course.
Inside the duo's abode, Ji-hu stares at his computer while remembering that in the previous night he had been searching about Dimensional Control users and had found nothing... again. A frustrated Ji-hu sighs loudly while closing the numerous open tabs on his computer. "Why is it so damn hard to find anything but the basics on Dimensional Control!?"
Ji-hu drags a hand down his face in irritation before making a claw shape with said hand and tugging at the space beside him lazily. The area indented around his fingers pulled and ripped open to reveal a dark blue rift bearing a searing white outline. Ji-hu simply puts his hand inside and pulls out a bottle of water before sipping from it in annoyance, the rift closing on its own mysteriously.
The young Hunter looks up at the ceiling as visions of a wishful future play out in his mind. "If only I had an instructor or something... Someone who could teach me everything there is to know." Ji-hu then looks back down at his desk before covering his face and dragging his hands down again while groaning. "Now that high school is over this isn't a joke anymore... I have to take it seriously... More seriously than I already have." Ji-hu grimaces before turning to look at the door Meihua had left through and deadpanning. "Or Meihua's gonna have to carry my ass in the dungeons again..."
A couple of hours pass as Ji-hu finds himself tinkering with a strange metallic object on his table. Odd devices wrapped around Ji-hu's arms and head as the young Hunter continued to work at the circuitry of his peculiar device.
Ji-hu suddenly sighs dejectedly while taking his head gear off before wiping the built up sweat away. The young Hunter lifts up his device while folding pieces of it carefully. "I know Mei said she wanted the shield, but does she really need it? She's already stronger than a tank on her own anyways." Ji-hu huffs in exhaustion before blowing a strand of hair out of his face, a softer expression replacing his annoyed one slowly. "But... I guess we have to take Malevolent level dungeons instead of the Vector ones since we aren't getting money from Uncle Yu anymore."
The rift user momentarily glances at a picture sitting on his window sill before exhaling exasperatedly and ruffling his hair in frustration. "I know we both agreed that we shouldn't depend on him anymore since he's already too nice, but seriously... maybe we should've asked for a little allowance... he'll probably give us one if we ask nicely."
Ji-hu then turns to the arm shield that he had been tinkering on and stares at it briefly. With a firm resolve, Ji-hu nods to himself before putting on his headgear once more and restarting his work. "Mei's right. She'll need this arm shield if we're going into the real dungeons together... Our lives will be at risk and I can't depend on her so much anymore either. Though... maybe I do deserve a break from all this hard work heh." A cheeky expression shows itself on Ji-hu's face when suddenly, a loud explosion goes off nearby as Ji-hu's room shakes violently. The young Hunter gets thrown out of his chair while his gear crashes against the floor with a loud crunching sound as Ji-hu just stares upward at his ceiling blankly. "Or not."
Ji-hu groans before quickly rising to his feet as the quake recedes. He gazes at his broken equipment sitting on the floor before grumbling to himself dejectedly. "Welp. That's gonna hurt the budget." Ji-hu briefly glances around before holding a thinking pose in confusion. "Did the building stabilizers not activate? Why did it shake so much?" The young Hunter's face quickly changes from annoyed to serious as he looks out his window to see people fleeing. "First things first, gotta deal with whatever the hell happened outside." Ji-hu hastily runs out the door while putting on a hoodie and pulling out mechanical gauntlets from his portal space, the technology shifting onto his hands and over his arms as a worried expression paints his face. "I really hope no one's hurt."
A few minutes later a winded Ji-hu is seen running through a usually crowded street now empty of people. "I swear the quakes came from over here. Did everyone already escape to safety? Where are the other Hunters?" Ji-hu promptly claps his face with his metal hands before taking a deep breath. "Get a hold of yourself, just keep going. Remember, you promised yourself to defend those who can't protect themselves." Ji-hu screeches to a halt as he rounds the corner of a building and finds a large crater in the middle of an inactive construction site. Damage to the nearby buildings was evident though the lack of people confused Ji-hu.
Ji-hu glances around in a confused manner due to finding no Hunters around, only strangely eerie shadow creatures. "What the hell? Did a new dungeon appear? Why are there no Hunters? And are those... Shadow summons?"
The young rifter quickly runs over to the edge of the crater and peaks downward before noticing more shadowy Abyssal-like creatures along with an odd looking spacecraft. "That doesn't look like a normal dungeon portal... And those are definitely shadow summons... But who's Shadow Manipulation in Korea could be this strong?" Ji-hu momentarily surveys the area before his eyes stop at a tall figure standing a few feet away near the edge of the crater.
Ji-hu squints while trying to get a better look of the figure when his eyes suddenly widen in recognition. "Is that Paxis!? Why is the #20 here in Korea!? What the hell is a covert solo Hunter like him doing here?" Ji-hu quickly runs over to Paxis and passes by multiple shadow summons that somehow seem to miss his intrusion by sheer luck.
Finally arriving near the odd individual, Ji-hu takes a few breaths before analyzing the person before him and deadpanning. "Masked face? Black cloak? Edgy vibes? Yup that's 100% Paxis."
Paxis. Full name classified. Paxis is currently Globally Ranked #20 in the International Hunters Index and is an extremely patient and careful individual. He is known as one of the strongest Shadow Control users in all of history and is extremely skilled in many types of combat. Very few have personally seen what Paxis looks like as he always wears a black mask with no discernable markings. In terms of pure ability, it is stated that he could conquer all of the United States on his own in just a week. He is by all definitions of the term, a walking nation of unkillable Disasters.
Suddenly, a low and authoritative voice calls out to Ji-hu, surprising him slightly. "Please step away from the crash site. I am still determining the threat level of this scenario." The masked individual speaks without bothering to look in Ji-hu's direction.
Ji-hu stands awkwardly while fidgeting with his fingers before scratching the back of his head. "Oh um... I just wanted to let you know that I'm a Hunter too and that I'm here to assist!" Ji-hu firmly declares with a raised mechanical fist.
Within the International Hunters Index there are countless active members, each varying in skill and ability, that actively fight in Abyssal dungeons or against criminal Sacred Catalyst users. Though powers tend to overlap, more often than not Sacred Catalyst users specialize in one specific skill set. The International Hunters Index is the main operating Index in the world, but there are National Hunters Indexes and even City Hunters Indexes all over the globe. Paxis often prefers working alone and is also a top 50 Hunter, which is why he is given the authority to commandeer any situation and force others away. Unfortunately he had somehow missed this random boy, a lapse in his capabilities perhaps?
The esteemed Paxis turns around and proceeds to analyze Ji-hu, taking notice of his gauntlets as the young rift user just squirms under the intimidating man's invisible glare. "Alright then. What is your Sacred Catalyst? Biomechanical Engineering?" Ji-hu raises a finger to answer before immediately getting interrupted by Paxis who decided to not wait for a reply. "Currently the pod in the crash zone is inactive and I need to assess what level of force is necessary to prevent any more damage to this city. Do what you can, but stay out of my way."
Ji-hu shakes his head nervously before going into his explanation as Paxis just watches in mild intrigue. "My Sacred Catalyst is Dimensional Control sir. I have little mastery over it... but I personally built these devices that allow me to take part in combat." Ji-hu pulls out a strange looking device from a portal to show before putting it back into the rift he took it out of.
Paxis stares silently at Ji-hu much to the young Hunter's continued discomfort. "Dimensional Control? When was the last time I've heard of an active Dimensional Control user? Although he seems lacking in his mastery, his technology seems well made... Perhaps his Sacred Catalyst is why none of my shadows sensed him?" Paxis turns back around as his summons continue to move closer towards the spacecraft while simultaneously securing the area. "Very well. Be prepared to portal away if things get too dangerous."
Ji-hu's expression becomes downtrodden as he watches Paxis continue to stare at the pod in the crater. "I guess that makes sense. It probably doesn't help that I'm here..." Ji-hu sighs quietly before saluting to leave quickly. "Yes sir! I'll just go keep any curious citizens away from the crash site." Ji-hu turns to leave when a shadow creature suddenly steps in front of him, halting his movement and causing him to look confusedly at Paxis.
"That is unnecessary. I placed my shadows around the area before you arrived to keep this site locked down. You just so happened to evade my detection somehow. Just stay near me and wait." Paxis explains, once again, without turning to look at Ji-hu.
"Oh... ok." Ji-hu wears a disappointed look before turning back toward where Paxis was standing. The young rift user glances around in awkward silence, scratching the back of his head before raising a finger to question the top ranked Hunter. "Um, if I may? Why are you here Sir Paxis? In Korea I mean." Ji-hu timidly questions, his curiosity getting the better of him.
Paxis glances at him for a moment, debating on whether he should inform the young man of anything. After a brief second the experienced Hunter sighs before turning back toward Ji-hu, causing the young rifter's face to brighten a little. "I am visiting for a conference with Korea's branch of directors. I'm sure you've already heard, but the Abyssal dungeons in China and Korea have been getting quiet lately. We still haven't figured out the reason why, but there is little need to worry... yet." Paxis momentarily pauses while looking up at the sky. "As I was heading toward the HQ this strange spacecraft fell from the sky before creating the crater you see before you." Paxis answers simply before going back to observing the odd object.
Ji-hu wears a confused expression at Paxis' last tidbit of information before looking back down into the crater to analyze the spacecraft himself. "The sky? But Abyssal Disasters don't emerge from the sky. They always come from underground, why would it..." Ji-hu's thoughts are suddenly interrupted when the spacecraft opens up and reveals a pod that begins to make a hissing sound. The latches of the pod start to unfold as a gleaming light and mist leak out.
"Prepare yourself." Despite the situation Paxis appeared calm and collected as he instructed Ji-hu to focus. Though the young Hunter, being startled, lets out a yelp before raising his armored appendages for combat.
Paxis watches with bated breath as nothing happens for a few seconds. This was the first time something like this had ever occurred since the beginning of the Abyssal invasion. Nothing that had Abyssal origins ever came from the sky. This could very well be a declaration of war from a foreign nation. Though the model of the transport vehicle didn't ring any bells. Paxis glances over to Ji-hu briefly before bringing his attention back to the pod. "I must protect the other Hunter if things get dire."
Suddenly, much to the surprise of the other two, a female humanoid being covered in stars slowly steps out of the pod. Its odd clothing resembling some sort of ceremonial garb. The being's eyes were covered with a veiled headpiece, its overall appearance a far cry from normal. It appeared to be in a state of limbo as Paxis' shadows moved forward with no hesitation.
The experienced Hunter watches with trepidation as his shadows continue moving closer and closer to the Abyssal Disaster. But... for some reason the Disaster doesn't move? "I don't know if I can handle this on my own... If it's a Calamity level Disaster then the entire Korean peninsula is already done for. It might even reach Japan depending on its classification. Would Commander Cho be able to reach our location in time?" Paxis thinks to himself while waiting cautiously for a few seconds longer just to be sure. The Abyssal Disaster makes no moves nor reactions toward Paxis' shadows as the seasoned Hunter stares down at the being. "It seems inactive... a trap?"
Paxis turns his head briefly to Ji-hu, who was currently just standing in shock at the sight before them. "It doesn't matter anymore. We're all dead either way if I'm correct, but I guess I shouldn't frighten him."
"Hunter, stay here, I'm heading down to deal with the Disaster. If it appears that I have been overtaken in battle contact this number." Paxis forces a download onto Ji-hu's phone prompting a confused expression from him as Paxis suddenly leaves without hearing the young rifter's reply.
Ji-hu had thrown a hand forward in hopes of getting the battle hardened Hunter to stop but just sighs dejectedly. "Yes sir." Ji-hu silently begins observing from the craters edge and reluctantly stays put so as to not hinder Paxis. "Since it's humanoid it could be a Calamity level Disaster... Will I even be able to make a call before everything around us gets destroyed? Can Paxis even handle this? He's better in a war of attrition..." Ji-hu briefly takes a glance at his phone and notices the random contact information he was given. Who was it that Paxis wanted him to contact in case of an emergency?
Paxis braces himself with a pool of shadows as he jumps down into the center of the crater to meet with the humanoid Abyssal Disaster. Though he wasn't afraid, Paxis was no fool, he knew depending on what he did he and everyone in this country could die in a split second. While his defensive capabilities were no joke they were not where his strengths lied unlike Freesia or Amari. Nor did he have reality bending powers like the Cho or Alter... In fact he was quite tame in comparison to the others, but at the very least, he could teleport the threat to a place with no civilians. At least minimize the casualties. He slightly regretted not calling in for backup when he had the time. His overconfidence would be the death of him if he were proven correct.
Unbeknownst to Paxis, he had overlooked one crucial detail... just as HE had been analyzing the Abyssal Disaster so had IT been analyzing him...
The mysterious being suddenly lifts its head ever so slightly, startling the seemingly stoic Paxis into pausing.
"Hello, human." A feminine voice, speaking Paxis' native language, makes its way out of the Abyssal Disaster's mouth much to the shock of the Hunter.
The seasoned Hunter instantly becomes wary and furrows his expression. "It greeted me in a non-threatening tone? Impossible. All known intelligent Abyssal Disasters have only used language to torture or play with their opponents. This thing is far more intelligent than any other Abyssal Disaster that we've ever encountered... What exactly am I facing right now?"
The Abyssal being holds her hands up in a gesture of surrender, somehow surprising Paxis even more. The expression was extremely human, not like that of a sadistic killer, but that of a regular human being. "I mean you no harm, human. I am sure my appearance has put you on guard, but I can assure you that I am not the monstrous creature you think me to be." Geni then looks around at the damaging crater her spacecraft had caused and bows deeply. "I sincerely apologize for the trouble I have caused. I did not intend for this destruction to occur for I was meant to land in an unpopulated area. I truly hope no life was lost due to my rough entry onto your planet."
As the being spoke, a million thoughts and scenarios currently ran rampant in Paxis' mind. His battle hardened instincts were screaming that this was dangerous. That this was far beyond his understanding. This Abyssal Disaster was unbelievably strong and he didn't know what powers it held... but his curiosity overwhelmed it all. He had always been a knowledge seeker and now, the greatest mystery of the Abyss was standing before him. A talking Abyssal Disaster that didn't seem malevolent and the fact that it had just apologized... What knowledge could this bring?
The creature, sensing that Paxis would not be speaking yet, decided to continue. "My name is... Geni. And I have come to your planet to fulfill a prophecy. My planet's great prophet foretold of a select few warriors that would be capable of quelling the sickness that has plagued countless worlds for eons. It was said that those warriors were to be birthed on this very planet." Geni then looks around again, as if analyzing her surroundings thoroughly this time. "As expected, you have already protected yourselves from the first wave." Geni's gaze then seemed to somehow pierce directly into Paxis' despite neither of their eyes being visible. "However... your peace will not last." The foreboding tone spoken by the supposed Abyssal prophet sent shivers down Paxis' spine. The implications were impossibly terrifying.
The now named Geni seems to lower her head in a tired manner as she watches Paxis carefully. "The only thing I can give you is my council and warning. The peace you experience now is only but a moment in the never ending cycle that is time. If you do not heed my words your planet will fall. Just as the countless others have. Should you accept my words as truth I shall aid in discovering these hidden warriors and inform them of what they are destined to achieve."
As Geni finished her explanation Paxis appeared to be in deep thought while the many shadows that surrounded them lay still. "First wave? The countless others that fell? Great hidden warriors? Could she be speaking of the top 10?"
The wary Hunter finally looks up from his thoughts to stare at the odd Abyssal Disaster before gesturing towards Geni as he speaks. "Greetings... Geni. I am a member of the Earth's International Hunters Index. I must ask. How can you expect me to trust you and your claims? You come from the stars and yet closely resemble the Abyssal creatures that you speak of." Paxis then narrows his eyes in suspicion. "And can speak my language perfectly... could she be a part of the system? Or is it all an elaborate hoax? She could be a Henkaishin user. It would explain the appearance and the capability of human speech translation."
Geni nods in full understanding before glancing to the side. Another human-like action that did not go unnoticed by Paxis. Geni returns her gaze to the season Hunter before speaking. "That is fair and true. I am a being compromised by the... Abyss as you say. Yet I have not fallen like the others have. Which is why I stand before you now. Sent as a prophet and final messenger. You may take my words as a lie and cut me down here and now for I will not stop you... After all, my fate is already sealed. But I must inform you that I hold information of which is vital to the survival of your species. Should you end me now, you will lose your only chance at winning this Universal war. Though... even I doubt the legitimacy of the prophet's claims. I have only arrived to carry out a long forgotten duty. Or perhaps to give what is left of my life some semblance of purpose." Geni states her response calmly, but for some reason... the last part of her long explanation sounded almost wistful to Paxis.
The seasoned Hunter continues to watch Geni for any sudden movements before responding. "What do you mean compromised by the Abyss? The Disasters we have fought were nothing more than mindless beasts. Only a great few were capable of speaking and even then it was never to converse intelligently as we are doing now. Are you claiming that these monsters we've been battling were once intelligent beings?" Paxis questions with slight curiosity lining his voice.
Geni shakes her head solemnly before raising her hand to stop Paxis from asking more questions. "Some, not all. I will answer any inquiries about the Abyss should you accept this arrangement. A last ditch effort from me if you will. As I said I will perish either way, therefore, the choice is up to you." Geni presents an ultimatum to the experienced Hunter while laying her hands out dramatically. A difficult choice to be made by a single man that could change the entire future of everything... Forever.
Paxis gazes forward with concern etched into his face, contemplating everything he had just heard. "If what this being says is even remotely true then the information it holds is invaluable. Even if this turns out to be an elaborate hoax I cannot risk this chance. The consequences are too dire and the implications are too great." Paxis continues to ponder to himself as Geni stands not too far away from him, patient and unbothered.
After a moment of tense silence, Paxis finally speaks up. "I alone as a single man cannot decide the outcome of this arrangement. But I have deemed you too important to simply ignore. Since you are a being similar to the Abyss you will most likely cause chaos to the populace. Will you cooperate with my conditions as well and let me transport you to one of this country's leaders?" A few of the shadows around Paxis slowly begin to dissipate as he becomes less wary of Geni. They wouldn't have done much anyways if she had been a Calamity.
Geni clasps her hands together and bows deeply with a small hint of joy. "But of course. I am simply a cascade of knowledge for you to consume. I will guide your race to the best chance of survival." Geni then raises her head while lowering her hands. "However, as I said before, not even I know if this prophecy holds true. We may very well be fighting a lost battle either way." Geni informs Paxis once more. Reminding him of the true monster that is the Abyss. An all consuming threat, not just on Earth, but spanning the entire Universe. A war fought by countless species. A war that many hadn't survived.
Paxis calmly nods in response, though he would be lying if he said he wasn't shaken to his core. This could very well be the beginning of another invasion even worse than the first. If that were to occur... the planet wouldn't survive. Only a few reality bending individuals would be capable of living on into the bleak future.
The seasoned Hunter glances up at Ji-hu's location, noticing that he was watching their interactions earnestly. "I'll have to inform that Hunter to go home and keep quiet about this... Or maybe it would be best to bring him with us. I can't risk letting this get out to the public." Paxis then turns to Geni, who was still watching him, to address the Abyssal prophet. "Very well please follow me." Paxis gestures for Geni to follow as he begins moving toward the edge of the crater. Geni begins walking, much to the small surprise of Paxis, as she slowly follows the shadowed Hunter. He had assumed she would float due to her garments doing so, but it seems he was incorrect.
Back upward near the edge of the crater Ji-hu could be seen laying on the ground observing Paxis and the Abyssal Disaster when some of the shadows surrounding the duo suddenly begin to disappear. "I've been watching those two stand around for a while now, but what the hell is going on? Why didn't Paxis end the Disaster already? If it's as intelligent as the other humanoid Disasters then... It's definitely a Calamity..."
Ji-hu's worried eyes follow Paxis and the Disaster as they continue to get closer to him. "What if... what if Paxis was mind controlled? Is that the power of this Abyssal Disaster?? N-no that isn't possible. He isn't someone who loses his will that easily. He's one of the top rankers, he definitely knows how to defend himself from mental attacks so... that's gotta mean the situation is safe enough... right?" Ji-hu glances around nervously before groaning quietly at the stupid decision he was about to make. Steeling his resolve once more, Ji-hu smacks himself in the face before sliding down the crater and using his gauntlets to slow his descent.
Just as he reaches the bottom the Abyssal Disaster that had been following Paxis suddenly disappears then reappears right in front of Ji-hu's face, a burst of wind following harshly. Though her clothed face hid her eyes, her gaze almost seemed to pierce Ji-hu's soul even if it wasn't visible.
In slow motion, Ji-hu's expression changes to one of pure horror at the sudden appearance of an Abyssal face, having not even realized who was in front of him until just now. Not a second had passed since he touched down into the crater yet... he was frickin face to face with a humanoid Abyssal Disaster that could very well be a Calamity!? "I'm gonna die? I'M GONNA DIE!" Ji-hu's face scrunches as memories of Meihua, Uncle Yu, and a few others pass through his mind. "I-I'm sorry Mei. I didn't fricking keep my promise!" Ji-hu mentally screams at his foolish mistake as he covers his head and tightens his fists in preparation for an attack while knowing full well it was pointless. In the back of his mind he was secretly hoping Paxis would somehow be able to save him, but even he knew that Paxis most likely hadn't even realized what had happened yet.
In that exact moment, as Ji-hu began to panic, Paxis had suddenly realized that Geni was no longer behind him. The seasoned Hunter processed everything in slow motion, his shadows pooling beneath his feet as he bent downward before leaping forward from pure instinct. Summoned shadows flew out of Paxis and toward the two as he attempted to close the distance.
With a cold expression of fury, the devastated Hunter summoned a blade in his hand and prepared to strike. Paxis only hoped that he could save the young man as the shadows that Paxis had summoned now barreled forward on the ground like rabid animals, mirroring his distraught mental state. "Dammit! I was foolish! Forgive my idiotic mistake young Hunter! At the very least this proves she isn't a Calamity which means I can kill her!" Paxis furiously berates himself over his beginner level error as he quickly nears the two.
Paxis continues to get closer and closer until he can almost reach with his sword when suddenly... a soft weeping could be heard, surprising the shadowy Hunter into freezing. Paxis reaches the two and lands, skidding beside them, but restrains his sword strike in pure befuddlement.
Ji-hu, who had thought his body was going to be vaporized along with the entire intersection, was now also opening his eyes in confusion. "C-crying? I'm not crying am I?" The young rift user proceeds to wipe his face though finds no tears, only sweat from the tense and terrifying situation.
The weeping, in fact, seemed to be coming from Geni who was now on her knees as the robes around her were glowing ever so slightly brighter. A liquid flowed down her cheeks much like human tears, though they were more Abyssal in nature. Geni's pain filled voice could be heard as she began to mutter. "I... have not seen a being who could control the rifts in so long... Am I dreaming? Is this reality? To think that I would find a warrior so early in my arrival... A miracle... Finally..." Geni continued to softly weep while covering her face as the two confused Hunters watched, baffled at the sight before them.
Paxis, unsure of what to do, halts his shadows. Immediately he sends a few of his summons to Ji-hu's side just to be safe before retreating into his inner mind to begin ruminating. "What does she mean? Are Dimensional Control users that special? I've definitely read of other users not too long ago. Does it have something to do with her race? And why would he be one of the prophesied warriors? He's far too weak to be of any use..." Paxis' gaze fell upon Ji-hu who was currently just staring at the odd sight before him. "Why is this Hunter so unique?"
Ji-hu lets out heavy breaths that he hadn't known he was holding, hoping that just maybe, maybe he was alright. "What the hell is this Disaster talking about? Wait... THE DISASTER JUST TALKED! It has to be at least low Calamity then! A-and controlling the rifts? Chosen warrior? What is going on!?"
Ji-hu nervously looks behind Geni and toward Paxis. "Um sir. I may need a little information? Is this monst..." Ji-hu glances at Geni awkwardly. "Person an Abyssal Disaster? And what in the Sacred Sanctions is she talking about!?" Ji-hu questions in absolute confusion as Paxis almost looked amused at his panic, though it seemed to be the trick of the eye.
Paxis shakes his head while exhaling with a hint of relief as the shadows around him dissipate, finally deeming Geni not to be a threat. "That I do not know myself." Paxis promptly gives Ji-hu a small bow, much to the shock of the young Hunter. "I apologize for not being fast enough to prevent her from reaching you. Had you been harmed it would have been due to my inadequacy."
Ji-hu freezes up and shivers as he stares at Geni in fear. "Wait wait wait wait so not even the #20 globally ranked Hunter could follow this things movements? Paxis isn't known for his speed, but his reaction time is still insanely fast! What exactly are we dealing with here?"
Ji-hu continues to watch the being cry softly. While it was kind of awkward, he... also kinda felt bad? Like it was his fault somehow?
Gathering his courage, Ji-hu walks up to Geni and kneels as well, surprising Paxis slightly as he hadn't expected Ji-hu to want to interact with such a being. "Um miss... Abyssal lady? Can you explain a bit more? And um... please don't cry? I feel bad for some reason... like I stepped on a cat's tail by accident. Oh wait you probably don't know what a cat is haha." Ji-hu nervously chuckles in an attempt to keep himself calm while scratching the back of his head.
Geni promptly wipes her face and composes herself before calmly answering Ji-hu. "I apologize, young one. My... race was made up of beings who could control the rifts." Ji-hu's eyes widened by a large margin at this information, a small tug of hopefulness arose momentarily before disappearing as Geni continued. "We were capable of controlling space as if it were our limbs." Geni appears wistful as she continues to explain. "I am... the last of my kind and have long since forgotten the feeling of another's spatial energy. You reminded me of the family I lost a millennium ago."
Geni then looks directly at Ji-hu, slightly scaring the young Hunter a bit. Her Abyssal skin glowing with the stars and phenomena of the Universe. "As for what I mean. You hold a very special type of rift essence. It holds a mystical aura that surpasses even the greatest of my peoples warriors. To find a rift bearer on this planet indicates that the prophecy may hold true. Which means this war can finally be put to an end and that all the blood that was shed would not be in vain." Geni finishes her explanation while gazing deep into Ji-hu's soul.
Ji-hu just lowers his head and looks at the ground in response before immediately looking back up at Geni with a blank face.
"WHAT!?"
End of Chapter 1
Character Sheet
Geni (Gen-ai)
Age: Unknown
Species: An alien race of "Rift Bearers"
Sacred Catalyst: (Was some sort of Dimensional Control)
Character Description: A tall female humanoid Abyssal Disaster. The only difference is that the stars and constellations that make up her skin and body glow a bluish hue in contrast to the normal dark void of the Abyssal Disasters. Wears some sort of ceremonial robe that glows and floats. Is compromised by the Abyss yet still retains sentience and intelligence. Eyes are covered by a headpiece. Has long white hair reaching to the mid torso length.
Likes: Reading
Dislikes: The Abyss
Fears: Unknown
Relations: Is teaching Ji-hu to master his rift warping capabilities. Has met Paxis.
Ji-hu Kwon
Male
Age:19
Nationality: Korean
Ranked Globally #34,771,389
Sacred Catalyst: Dimensional Control
Sacred Catalyst and how it works: Gives user the ability to control space and enter dimensions. Ji-hu in particular has trouble using it efficiently and in turn has created technology to aid him in combat situations. The nations have not seen a Dimensional Control user in a very long time. Though it is not an extremely rare ability as of late it has been absent in the system.
Character description: Medium Height, Black hair, Very dark blue eyes. Has messy hair. He wears hoodies and sweatpants most of the time. Has a combat suit that he rarely wears. Has unwavering determination when it comes to doing his job. Will risk his neck for other people's lives much to his sisters' worry and annoyance. His main choice of weapon for dealing with Abyssal threats are his combat gauntlets that he created himself to increase his fighting strength. Is extremely good with technology and mechanics.
Likes: Tinkering and very old movies
Dislikes: Overly spicy food
Fears: Not being capable or useful in battle and hindering others
Character relations: Son of Eun-kyung Kang and Gajok Kwon. Childhood friends and brother of Meihua. Best Friends with Atlas and Romy. Learning under Geni.
Meihua Yu
Female
Age: 19
Nationality: Chinese
Ranked Globally #32,770,522
Sacred Catalyst: Divine Intervention
Sacred Catalyst and how it works: Divine intervention blesses or curses the user with random events that can be either lucky or unlucky. These events can occur at any time during the user's life. This Sacred Catalyst can also force byproducts onto its user that can be both positive and negative. These byproducts are placed on the user the moment they receive this Sacred Catalyst.
Character description: Medium Height, Black Purple hair, Purple gray eyes. Has short straight hair. Has a cold demeanor, but is extremely soft hearted at the core. Her left arm is entirely mechanical due to an accident which resulted in the loss of her appendage. This arm is mostly used for combat. Has enhanced strength as a byproduct of Divine Intervention. Has enhanced durability as a byproduct of Divine Intervention. Has asked Ji-hu multiple times to give her an arm shield for more dangerous missions. Is extremely patient at times, but can just as easily get riled up quickly.
Likes: Spicy food and drawing
Dislikes: Her mechanical arm
Fears: Losing anyone close to her
Character relations: Niece of Zichen Yu. Childhood friends and sister of Ji-hu. Best friends with Atlas and Romy. Knows Hyun-ki Cho and respects him.
Codename: Paxis
Male
Age: Classified
Nationality: Chinese
Top Ranked Globally: #20
Sacred Catalyst: Shadow Control
Sacred Catalyst and how it works: Little is known about how far Paxis' Shadow Manipulation can go, but he far surpasses all known shadow manipulators in all of Sacred Catalyst history. Has been stated to have no limit to his control over his and other's shadows though has not been confirmed. Can create shadowy material from thin air. Can create constructs, illusions, Abyssal Disasters, weaponry, and armor. Has destructive attack power and high durability along with great reaction speed.
Character Description: Tall, Masked face, Silver hair, Eye color unknown. Calm and collected. Does well in extremely stressful situations. Well versed in the history of Sacred Catalysts. Well versed in Abyssal Dangers and their abilities. Is a knowledge seeker. Main Weapon: Shadow constructs. Is rarely seen using hand to hand combat, but is apparently adept at many types of fighting. Can summon most Abyssal creatures formed out of his shadows. Unknown if he can summon Calamity level Abyssal Disasters. Most likely able to, but chooses not to use them in battle. Most consider him a walking nation.
Likes: Has been said to like origami and nature
Dislikes: Unknown
Fears: Unknown
Character relations: Is teaching Nagato. Has met Ji-hu and his friends (Finds him intriguing). Knows most of the top ranked Hunters. Friends with Hyun-ki Cho.