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« on: December 11, 2025, 01:23:01 pm »
Back to where we left off:
General Maxine Mumfre known ever since she was a child that Cordath is a real cruel bastard who will just do things for **** and giggles. Being powerful, evil and bored is one thing. Being powerful, evil and bored who ends up finding something interesting is a problem. Especially for those who are blessed by Orion, God of the Spirit Realm. Now? She believes that Cordath is just a major assh0le. Especially since this whole situation literally went to hell. From the raid that took so many lives, to her goddaughter being accused of a crime, seeing that same goddaughter getting kidnapped by a terrorist who is supposed to be dead, and now dealing with evil nether knight specters. Just her luck.
Maxine: Keep pushing them back!
She barked as she along with whatever is left of her men begin to fight through the prison building. General Winre along with Lieutenant Vega and a few others spirit user soldiers also push the nether knights back as they make their way for escape. Despite their best efforts, they were being overwhelmed when humanoid ant specters begin to join. That was when Sam and Alisa barge in to help. Sam creates a spirit barrier to shield her mother and the others while Alisa use her white tiger sprit animal to dispatch the threat. Once they clear the way, Sam lead the group to a hidden door. It leads to an underground passageway toward a secret hideout where they are met with a young woman.
Young Woman: You were lucky you got out of that ambush alive and still standing, minus a couple of scraps and bumps here and there.
The young ponytailed scout said as she guides the group through the sewers with a lamp in her hand.
Vega: Barely.
Maxine: Who are you exactly? And where are we going?
Young Woman: Oh right. Well, I'm Mr. Dragunov's weaponsmith. My name is Riona. She introduced herself with a half-bow.
Winre: Well Riona, where are we going?
Riona: We're going to Safe Haven.
Vega: Safe Haven? Did you make that up? She scoffed, showing no interest to the name.
Riona: No, I did not. Plus, it was a last minute name given to by some assassin.
Maxine: What would an assassin be doing here? Wouldn't they be with Goten and some of the Darkfires?
Footsteps approaches the three with a female voice echoing the walls.
Voice: True, but things do happen.
A young man with short black hair comes out from the shadows. He is lean yet muscular who is wearing casual assassin attire. One distinct thing about him despite his tanned yet pale skin is that the man is wearing an eyepatch while his other eye is silver. The man is shown to be Senji "Voltan" Hazeldine, son of the Blood King, Issun Hazeldine in the Hazeldine Clan. The Hazeldine Clan had a rocky relationship between the Zolnerowich and Darkfire family back when Natasha Zolnerowich and Qrow Darkfire were in their prime. But after the major evil specter event, things began to mellow out to the point that some of the Hazeldines such as Voltan went to go do their own thing.
Sam: Voltan! Holy crap, you're alive! She exclaims with a laugh as she excitedly approaches the dhampir and gives him a huge hug. Voltan return the hug with a snicker before the two let go of each other.
Voltan: I see you tykes have gotten better since the last time we've met. Ya even got some battle scars to show proudly. You and bird girl.
Sam: You're one to talk. Heard that fight against that bat guy pr*ck was brutal.
Voltan: Yeah, it was. Glad that I was able to stop his ass up for good. But let's just say that if I had power like that, I would've acted like a rampaging beast as well. But no use in dragging stuff like that. Besides, figures that it's time that I welcome you both to Safe Haven. Not as lavish as the Darkfires' home but it's good enough.
Voltan walks over to a dead end of the passageway. Using his blood magic, he activates a portal on the wall. He then casually steps through. Once the group follows through, they see a makeshift camp leading to an underground storage that has a family of survivors resting and three others helping those who sustained injuries during the raid. There are two Apothecaries who are healing those in need of serious attention and about four knights and three dames who survived the nether knights ambush.
Maxine: Are these residents of the village? She ask with a frown.
Voltan: Yeah. Those who weren't killed or ran off anyway. Same goes for the few good knights and dames. Sparks is here as well with Sergei, Vik and Ana.
Alisa: Wait, Maya is here?! I thought she was with Sergei!
Voltan: Some of the specters came through and tried to finish what the raiders started. Sergei and Maya held them off as best as they could until I showed up with Vik. Good thing too. Sparks was still recovering from that raid attack.
Sam: And the evil specters made things worse.
Volatn: Yup. We got a few healers trying to help her recover. But you know how boar headed the Zolnerowich family are. He says with a sheepish fanged smile
Maxine: Trust me, I know. Gets that from their old man.
Voltan: Heh. Hey, Riona! Get Major Hardass and the chick to the medical area. I got Sam and Max here.
Winre: General Winre, dhampir.
Voltan: Yeah, yeah.
Before Winre can say anything, Riona guide him and his lieutenant to the nearest medic area, which is met by reluctant grumbles from the general. Meanwhile, Voltan gesture the women to follow him so he can patch them up but mainly talk to them in private.
Voltan: Right this way, ladies~!
Later:
After the group recover from their major wounds, the group of soldiers and their allies group up to form a plan.
Voltan: We only got a few good soldiers who didn't wind up dead or become a specter. Majority of them are injured, but we've gotten them fixed up and ready to fight.
Maya: We can't really just charge up on them head on. We'll only be hurting ourselves and those who will fall for Ostell's tricks. She point out with a sigh Not to mention the possible allies he has. We don't even know where he has V or where they will appear.
Riona: Well, if I was a power hungry, sociopathic bastard who will do anything to get what they want, I would start by gathering an audience up on Rockwell Hill. The place is isolated and no one is allowed to enter that area unless you got corpses to bury or burn.
Vega: Impressive.
Winre: Wait, how would you know that?
Riona: Simple, General. Scrappers often take damaged armors and clothings from thieves and the undead such as zombies. They keep anything useful. And as for the bodies, they either bury them or burn them on Noman Hill, so people won't get sick.
Maxine: Alright, so we got our potential location. Question is how do we get there unnoticed?
Voltan: Hey, Maya. You alright?
Voltan gently place a hand on Maya's shoulder, shaking Maya from her her deep train of thought.
Maya: Yeah, just... sighs
Alisa: We will save V. Once she's safe, we'll regroup in the Kingdom of Tera and contact the Darkfires.
Maya: I know. I just wish I could have been here sooner.
Sam: Don't blame yourself. We can't control what fate has planned for us, whether we like it or not. Best we can do is keep moving forward. We will make things right. The deaths of the innocents will not be in vain.
Winre: Finally, something we can agree on. He says jokingly with a half smile. Where did you learn to talk like that?
Sam: Turns out those boring ass lessons weren't a complete waste of time. She replies back with a smirk Plus, Vampire Boy and I found a way to sneak through the back entrance and toward the hill mentioned earlier. Only problem is that we'll be running into some undead and freaky bone sucking specters.
Maya: Of course we will. She says sarcastically with a sigh
Maxine: Alright, it's settled. Let's make it happen.
Without wasting time, the underground insurgent group prepares themselves for a fight. Voltan and the now recouperated soldiers sharpen their blades, repair their armors, ready their spirit powers and pray for Orion's strength to pull through. In the Apothecary corner, Maya finished up her meditation, making sure that her connection to her Thunderbird spirit is intact. Maya then walk out to see her gauntlets refined alongside everyone else's weapons. Maya walk up to the group, ready to move out.
Alisa: In Russian: "Ready to go?"
Maya: In Russian: "Let's go save our family."
Meanwhile, Winre has a private conversation with his lieutenant as the two ready their weapons.
Winre: This is between the two of us and nothing more. I don't care how close both houses are when it comes to family. We still have a job to do at the end of the day. Even if that girl is innocent, Benedict probably had turned that girl into a wild beast by now. If Vendetta has a drop of innocent blood on her hands, she will be executed. No hesitation. No persuasion.
Vega: And if her family intervenes?
Winre: Do what they cannot. If they can snap the girl back into some sense, good on them. To be honest, I rather you deal with the Zolnerowich family than those savages (Darkfires) that they are aligned with. But if all else fails, you know what to do. I'll deal with the aftermath. I refuse to let another Natalya roam the land again.
Vega: Yes, sir. It will be done.
Winre: Good. Meet up with us when you are done here.
With that, Winre leaves the room to join the others, with Vega following behind minutes later. Armed up and filled with courage and determination, the Insurgents along with the resident member of the Zolnerowich family have made their way through the tunnel exit, leading them outside to a dawning field.
Sam: Sunrise... it's been that long huh?
Maya: Okay, there might be a few **** trying to take our home. Fantastic. She grumbles sarcastically.
Alisa: Seems like a good time for a speech. Maya?
Maya: What? Why me?! You're the Captain! I'm not a Darkfire. I'm not even a royal!
Alisa: You're a guardian and the child of Natasha Zolnerowich. They need to know that there's at least one with them.
Maya sighs as she walk to the group of soldiers who came with them. Maya hate speeches, but Alisa was right. Clearing her throat, she begin to speak.
Maya: People of this land! For those who do not know me, my name is Maya Zolnerowich. I'm the first child of Natasha Zolnerowich and Ezekiel Pierce. Our enemies believe that they gained the upper hand and why would they? Our homes are burned. Our families are scattered. The blood of our loved ones stain this land, and they will do whatever it takes to divide us from our friends and family. I know you are scared. I know that you are tired. Filled with sorrow. Filled with rage. I know this because I feel the exact same way as you all do. But I want you to know that you are not alone on this. I stand with you. We stand with you. With us working together, we can win this! We can and we will show these people that we do not go down easy! That we come back twice as hard! We will make sure that these bastards will regret coming here with their blood!!
Maya raise her fist in the air, her spirit aura flaring and revealing thunderbird wings from her back which made the crowd cheer and roar with her.
Maya: You are not fighting for the Zolnerowich family or for the Darkfire family! You are fighting for your family! Your friends! Your home!
Winre: She's really enjoying this, huh? Not a fan of speeches, my ass.
Alisa: Shush. Let her have this.
Meanwhile:
Valentina march down the hall of Benedict's manor with silent fury in her eyes. Everything has gone south. Those damn Darkfires do everything but what they're supposed to do. No wonder they get along with the Zolnerowich family so well. They're both arrogant, boar headed fools with power. Seems like something that Valentina can't be fully rid of completely. Bad enough that she had to share the same air as that fool Anubis. She can tolerate Cordath well enough. But people like Anubis... you give a hairless ape like him immense power and they gain a god complex to the highest degree. Valentina only follow one person and that sure as hell isn't someone who wants to be god. Although not powerful enough to defeat him, she is powerful enough to make sure that he doesn't try something with her... for now. Good thing she has allies. Speaking of which, Valentina takes a deep breath and open the door to Benedict's study room, nearly slamming it shut. She sees Benedict going through some papers and adjusting his glasses.
Benedict: I see that things didn't go so well?
He ask sarcastically, not looking up from his papers. In a burst of speed, Valentina place both palms of her hands onto the desk, making it creak under her strength.
Valentina: Cut the sarcasm, Ostell. They're coming this way. Cordath spoke to me about what happened.
Benedict: I know. He spoke to me as well. He says as he finally glare up from his papers. Although maintaining his calm composure, Valentina was able to tell using her senses that Benedict is also as vexed as she is about the situation. Out of all the times those Darkfire brats would stand together to face a threat, it's when a good plan comes together. Doesn't help that fool (Anubis) is also plotting my demise as well.
Valentina: Guessing that Cordath warned you to see what you'll do as well.
Benedict: Indeed. Though that's the beauty of dealing with certain people like him. It's also a game of who's the bigger king of fools. I swear, you give someone a sliver of immense power and they gain a huge ego. It's typical, really. Had plenty of those back then to deal with.
Valentina: And yet here you are, about to meet the same end as your former leader.
Benedict: Oh, now you insult me. Even if my demise comes, it will not be by his (Anubis) hands. This I am sure. He says as he gets uo from his chair and begin to walk away from it. Walk with me.
He says as he begin to leave his office. Valentina trudge behind Benedict closely as they leave his office and walk down the hall.
Benedict: It's true that I had tried to find some form of immortality through my studies, but what I seek and what I had gained was something far greater than some mere god. During my time, I have aligned myself with those who share the same ideals as I have. Those who would go beyond to further humanity in terms of evolution and expand on the power that was given to us. I had only met a few who shared my vision or something similar. Although Natalya had bigger ambitions of her own, there were some things that I have agreed with when it comes to certain things such as divinity. Gaining godhood isn't something to laugh at. Hell, gaining demigod-hood is also a far fetched attempt but better than nothing. There were many tales and stories behind it. But what those like Natalya and I seek was far greater than mere godhood. There are beings that are far older and far more powerful than gods from different myths and legends. You have ancient monsters, primordial beings and so on. For my previous organization, we had primordials and we had Titans. Hence was the power I gained which was amplified by Cordath. To achieve the power of a Titan. It also proved that no matter the godhood, there's always something far greater. I plan to not use my abilities for something so simple minded such as ruling a bunch of lesser creatures. That is a desire for the simple minded. What I desire is what I stated before. To continue on my purpose as a scientist. Being an executioner is just a hobby. turn his gaze to Valentina You mentioned earlier that the Darkfire Brothers worked together for once against Nightshade. I was informed that as well. I was also informed that it was short lived due to a disagreement followed by careless actions that divided them once more. Those actions cost the soul of a man one of them tried to save. This only proved that our plan to divide others can work. We just need to push a little further.
Valentina: And what of the Zolnerowich and their allies? One is alive back at the village, one is in your custody, and the other two are somewhere across the land. I told you before that I want that family wiped out. You know as much as I do that their bond is inseparable.
Benedict: Yes, until Natalya came along. There are still people to this day wary of Vendetta and Vinette due to what their mother and older sister has done. And once we unleash our other plan, things will turn out okay. By the time the Darkfires appear, it will already be too late.
Valentina: And what, your plan is to torture the girl to do her bidding?
Benedict: If I'm some primate like everyone else in that blasted village, yes. Savages torture people. What I do, dear Valentina, is something close to creating life. Rebirth as some say. I pick, I prod, I burn, I tear through flesh and bone to create something new. Something better. Whatever comes to mind. I would like to let you in on a little secret on the Zolnerowich family: You cannot control them no matter what you do. They're too bull-headed to be control in both mind and spirit in both mundane and supernatural means. The most powerful being on the planet would try to force them to do their bidding and they'll flip them off in response. Natalya learned that the hard way when she tried to control her own flesh and blood. There are some theories as to why they are like that, the most plausible being that they have some sort of connection to Orion or the Spirit Realm as a whole.
As Benedict talk about his theory, the two stop by his living room. Benedict turn the handles on the large clock tower which activates a secret room. As the two walk down the stairs, Valentina ask Benedict a question once he is finished with his theory.
Valentina: If that is the case, then what makes you think that framing Vendetta would work?
Benedict: I learned that there are other ways to go about it. As you will see soon enough.
As he says this, he and Valentina stop in front of an operating table made of stone. On top of it is rubber infused with dark spiritual energy. On it lays a barely conscious Vendetta Zolnerowich, who is slowly recovering from her vivisection that Ostell was performing on her. Her torso still open with her internal organs and ribcage still showing. There were diagrams of V's internal organs that were written down and drawn. The smell of blood and organs hit Valentina's nose like a truck. It's not a bad smell but it was potent enough to make her wide awake. V's regeneration us still kicking as it begin to close the gaping wound but it's taking some time, showing that Benedict has been doing this many times along with using some kind of drugs that slows regeneration. Valentina look at the teenage girl who in turn glare back at them both with justified animosity.
V: Well... look who it is. The worst that Cordath has to offer: A disgraced mad Titan and a wretched tapeworm.
Benedict: I see that your insults are getting better, brat.
V: Goes to show I'm still educated, assh0le. Now what the hell do you want?
Benedict: Well I've been thinking. Since my associate and I are on borrowed time at the moment, I figured that we expedite things a little by having you put on a little show with you on the spotlight. Benedict calmly approaches her with a malevolent look in his eyes.
V: Tempting, but hard pass since I'll be getting out of here in a moment!
V attempts to accelerate her regeneration but was subdued by Benedict grabbing an anti-elemental scalpel and pierce V's smaller intestines with, making her shout out a swear word in Russian. V grunt in pain as Benedict slowly twist the blade before yanking it back out, but she never loses focus on her assailants.
V: Without that accursed dark spirit powers and these binds holding me, I'd show you a thing or two on what I learned from the raiders.
Benedict: Pups learn how to bite at such a young age, little Zeus.
V: Stop calling me that! I'm not a god! Something you and those who sold their souls to Cordath need to know along with the fact you're never going to get away with this. By the end of this, your blood will be shed, whether it's from my blood family or my bonded family.
Valentina: Still the optimistic, just like your fool of a father...
V: In Russian: You demented, blood sucking bit---!
V was nearly done regenerating due to her intense emotions but Valentina manage to plunge her clawed right hand into V's closing abdomen before it fully healed. V yelp in shock and panic when Valentina wrapped her hand around V's liver, almost tempted to rip it right out but held it firmly. Meanwhile, Benedict calmly thank Valentina with a small wave of his hand as he go through his medical equipment on his desk.
Benedict: Save your strength for the show, little wolf. Especially when they put you down like the animal that you truly are.
V: Fat chance in hell, you pr*ck! There is no way you can lie to these people to convince them to kill a Zolnerowich!
Benedict: I don't have to even lift up a finger to do anything. The people already have doubts of you due to what your mother has done in the past. That and some of the higher ranked soldiers suspecting that you played a part in the raid is more than enough to convince them to execute a mangy dog like you. All I need is one little touch. Aha! Here it is!
Benedict lift up a syringe full of red substance. In it has a skinny black tube worm like substance as thin as an inch worm wiggling around. V's eyes grew wide and she leans away while looking at the syringe.
V: Wh-what the hell is that?
Benedict: Oh, this? Ladies, this is the source of your little rampage at the village. Every raider has either this injected inside of them or some medallion on them. It's activated when fed with anger, hatred, violence and most importantly the blood of it's victims it's host kills. And it so happens that when you were brought in by Alisa and that bald brute Viktor, I happened to snatch the medallion before the guards could stow it away in storage. Unfortunately, the medallion was broken. But thanks to some help, I was able to find other ways to utilize it.
Benedict explains as he walk over to the left side of the operation table where while watching V's eyes slowly form tears.
Benedict: And you could already guess what I plan to do with it. And trust me, Valentina, this is much better than the medallion idea.
V: You bastards! You can't do this to me! Get off of me!
Ignoring her liver being held captive, V still tries to fight back, even going as far as breaking one of her restraints to try to rip out Valentina's throat with her left hand. Both Valentina and Benedict had to restrain V as she struggles to break free and kill them both, but the experiments took a toll on her body. Valentina manage to knock V out again by hitting her pressure point while Benedict quickly inject the syringe inside of V's neck. After catching their breaths, the two quickly get up. Benedict snaps his fingers and summon his nether knights.
Benedict: You two. Grab the girl and get her into position in the forest by Norman Hill. Now!
The knights nod and grab V after taking the restraints off of her. They then begin to sink quickly into the shadows. Benedict then turn to the rest.
Benedict: Find whatever nit witted and hard ass knight still lurking around that godforsaken village in disguise. Send word that Vendetta Zolnerowich is going on a rampage by Normal Hill, attacking villagers.
The nether soldiers salute and disappears as well. Benedict use his shadow powers to travel back to the study room with Valentina trailing close behind. Once she steps out of the shadow, she sees Benedict pick up his spear that is hanging by the fireplace that has just been snuffed out, making the room very dim to the naked human eye.
Valentina: This is your glorious plan?
Benedict: Save it. It's already bad enough that I have one human cockroach with so called divine power counting on my downfall. For now, I need you to head back to Abaki and the others. I will send some reinforcements to delay the calvary that will be storming in to save whatever left of their precious human pets.
Valentina: Are you kidding me---?!
Benedict: Have you forgotten what Cordath has said?! He raised his voice angrily toward Valentina that even had her stunned for a moment. Our advantage was lost the moment Qrow's brats decided to work together after years of conflict with each other! At least one of them are on the way here! Time is NOT on our side anymore! And I will be damned if I let ANYONE take what I have created with my own two hands! What I have sacrificed! Even if I have to die on the battlefield, I will do it on my own terms, as a TITAN!!
As he emphasized that last word, he slam the hilt of his spear with rage, shadow tendrils sprout out of the ground like wild animals as it crawls onto his skin, burying deep inside of it with sickening squelching sound. Once done, Benedict is now covered with spiritual nether armor, almost as if it came from Cordath's realm itself.
Benedict: Head back to Abaki. I will join you soon with the others. If I am not back within a week, tell Abaki to initiate phase two. Stay vigilant, Valentina. Anything can happen.
He slam the hilt of his spear again on the floor. In an instant, Benedict disappears into the shadows once more. Huffing out a short exasperated sigh, Valentina slink back into the shadows. Whether it's out of care or rage, it does not matter. Not anymore. Because milliseconds later, the whole manor erupted into a exploding inferno. All of his work. His research. Gone. Reduced to ashes. And even if someone manage to somewhat salvage whatever is left, even before this has happened, they will find nothing but gibberish if they're lucky since many were hexed with traps that can harm even powerful dark spirits. Even if Benedict falls tonight, so will his work. Only he and he alone will obtain the knowledge he has.
The Battle of Norman Hill:
V woke up into a white empty space. Nothing. This isn't the first time that she has been in a situation like this. This just means that she has been knocked out again. V look around, only to face a white wolf in front of her. Her spirit animal, Ragna the Tempest Wolf.
Ragna: Back to where it all started. He says with a sigh
V: Getting real sick of this place. She grumbles bitterly Sick of being treated as an experiment. I need to escape.
Ragna: Vendetta, listen to me. That substance that mad titan injected into you, that was what your mother was experimenting on years ago. He finally was able to perfect it. If that manage to get out of the village...
V: A lot of people could die...! We need to move!
V tries to move but notice the black substance holding her in place. She tries to use her lightning powers but it too engulfs her hand. She struggles to see her wolf spirit being coated with the same substance as well.
Ragna: Listen to me, Vendetta! It feeds off of your most potent negative emotions! Fight it! Remember the people who cares about you! Remember--!
The wolf's maw is snapped shut as the substance fully engulfs him. Once it fully engulfs V, she is met by darkness. She tries to find a way to wake up, only to be met with a pair of red eyes and a splitting headache. The emotions of rage and hatred pounds into her mind. V screams in pain as she tries to fight back. But it was relentless. It focus on the people who wronged her. Her mother. The organization. The raiders. The doctor. Valentina. Those memories fuel her buried emotions. Emotions she tried to move on from as it forcefully form fangs and claws onto the teenager. V tries her best but it was futile. Her agonizing cries for help is only met by a wrathful roar. In the forest, V's eyes fly open, her blue eyes being replaced by crimson red as she lunge at the nearest nether soldier disguised as one of Winre's own. They begin to restrain V and put her by a stump. Benedict, disguised as one of the higher ranked soldiers of the Kingdom of Tera begin to speak to the angry mob, his voice being disguised as well.
Benedict: People of this village! You have suffered greatly at the hands of the raiders. You lost so much! Many of the perpetrators may have escaped, but we can still rely a message toward them. Here is the child of the infamous Natalya Zolnerowich, someone who tarnish everything her own family and those once allied to her for her own selfish gain. And here, history repeats again. Tonight, the cycle stops here! For justice!
The angry mob chants as the executioner readies his bardiche. Before he can bring it down on V's neck, a lightning ball collides with the Executioner's bardiche, knocking it out of his hands. Another lightning ball makes contact on the executioner's chest, knocking him back.
Benedict: What is this?!
He exclaims and was shocked to see Maya, Sam, Voltan and Vega fighting their way through the angry mob. They've incapacitated moat of the crowd and soldiers that tried to stop them. The adults and the small army that were with the group fell back to fend of hellspawns and their generals. Maxine told Sam's small group to advance. Benedict hiss in annoyance as he turn to his guards.
Benedict: Don't let them near the savage! Kill them!
Benedict ordered both of his remaining guards and the other guards that he fooled while he tries to find the bardiche dropped by the executioner. V sees this and starts to wriggle free from her chains while snarling in anger and hysteria. A group of knights charges against Sam's group, forming a shield wall against them. Sam steps up with her sword drawn.
Sam: All of you are pledging an alliance to the wrong person. A madman disguised as one of our own who's goal is to destroy us all!
Knight: He has stopped most of the raiders from killing any more innocent lives, Commander! He also has all the right to execute the savage that caused all this, the savage you once knew as Vendetta Zolnerowich!
Maya: It's all lies! That knight is Benedict Ostell in disguise! He wants nothing more but to stain our family's home and everything it stood for! You are being lead blindly by a madman!
A nether knight charges behind Maya only to be slashed and knocked back by Voltan Hazeldine.
Voltan: Back off! He growled as he form blood blades from his arms. The knights close in on the group, ready to attack.
Knight: Can't believe that the Darkfires would let some of your kind still roam free, Hazeldine.
Voltan: Good thing they did. Would miss the opportunity to kick your stupid asses! He sneers as he flash his fangs at the group.
Knight: ENOUGH! Close in on them!
A knight instructs as they charge at their direction. Sam, Maya, Voltan and Vega charges as well clashing against their adversaries. The group were able to tell which ones were the nether knights and which ones weren't. Voltan keeps his footing and swiftly slashes his targets, but not after enduring a number of cuts and is then staggered from by a mace-wielding knight. He falls on his knees and looks up to find the knight winding up for a killing blow. Voltan swears silently in Spanish as he brace himself for a blow that he knows will only incapacitate him. Maya sees her fallen ally and quickly punch a knight out of the way. Vega shoves a knight off of her and closes in on Maya while activating her spiritual armor. Vega gives Maya a boost in the air which made her punch the ground, sending a powerful shockwave which blast the knights back and save Voltan and Sam. Maya begin to get back up, only to hiss in pain. Vega rush over and help the young woman up.
Vega: I got you.
Maya: Thanks.
Sam: You okay, Maya?
Maya: Yeah. Where's Voltan?
Voltan: Here. He groans as he stretch, his back fixing itself on it's own due to cracking sounds it's making. Damn, that's gonna sting tomorrow morning. But I'm the last one to be worried about. I see that your injuries aren't fully healed.
Maya: They're healed enough. Don't worry, I'll be careful.
Voltan: You better. Or else, I'll personally kick your feathery ass myself.
Vega: Wait a damn minute, you still have injuries and yet you're out here on the battlefield?
Sam: She'll be fine. She assures as Voltan takes Maya away from a now annoyed Vega
Vega: She'll be a liability! We have a job to do! I'm here to kill a mad scientist, not babysit someone who can't even protect herself!
Sam: grabs Vega by the collar Listen here, b*tch. I don't give a damn what your hard ass general says. This is my group. My operation. We do this my way.
Villager: THERE THEY ARE! KILL THE TRAITORS!
A follower shouts with a group equipped with sickles, pitchforks and farming flails. Voltan pulls out a bottle with red liquid contents and drinks it. He then gives Maya a small leather bag as he steady her on her feet.
Voltan: This has only one use. Use this carefully. I'll buy you some time.
Maya: You cannot be serious.
Voltan: Yup! Don't worry, I won't kill them. Just mess them up a bit. Now go save Live Wire!
That was V's nickname that Voltan gave her. The dhampir then laughs maniacally as he charge towards the villagers like a madman. Though despite the bloodlust appearance he is playing, Sam and Maya knows very well that Voltan won't harm an innocent. Just smack some sense into a ignorant one. Maya let out a small laugh as she begin to move, followed by Sam and Vega
Vega: Are you sure?
Sam: Yeah, he'll be alright.
Vega: I meant the villagers.
Sam: Oh, them too minus the possible head trauma here and there.
Suddenly, they heard V's hysterical scream that echoes the quiet night. They also hear shrieks from specters which force them to run even faster to the source of the scream and chaos.
The nether knights loaded crossbows and charged against an enraged V who had just recently bit off a vampire soldier's neck and claw open another's jaw. She continues this rampage while resisting the pain of the crossbow bolts landing on her and the various stabs and pokes from the attacks.
V: I'LL TEAR YOU APART!
V calls out, her voice distorted almost sounding like a specter herself as she punches and pushes away more incoming soldiers. Benedict growls as he turn to a ice mage and orders him to freeze her.
Mage: But our men...!
Benedict: grabs the ice mage by the collar It's either them or you watching that thing feast on your own entrails. Choose wisely.
The mage quickly regain his composure once Benedict let go of him. The mage then casts an ice ray freezing most of his own men just to put V in a deep freeze state.
Benedict: Heel, girl.
He scoffs as he arrogantly smirks underneath his helmet. The crowd begin cheering for the knights which Benedict pays no mind to until he notice Sam, Maya and Vega fending off more knights. Sam breaths heavy and tries to maintain her stance. She checks on both Vega and Maya who are also trying to recover.
Sam: Everyone good?
Vega: Peachy.
Maya: I'm good. coughs Just trying to jump start myself.
Sam: Now who's making terrible jokes?
She lightly tease Maya. Vega roll her eyes lightly, silently agreeing with Sam until she notice shadows moving. She grabs the two young women and lept back before the shadows form spikes. And second later and the women would've been impaled.
Benedict: Another group who can't do a damn thing right! One refuse to remain home and another refuse to stay dead!
Benedict growls underneath his knight helmet. Maya sees V's body frozen in a large block of ice which made her eyes spark angrily with lightning.
Maya: What the hell did you do to my cousin?!
Benedict: Your people have trapped the savage in her rightful place! As you know this execution was to have that b*tch's head on a pike, so the people of this village would feel so much safer under proper leadership!
Sam: You mean under false leadership! You've done nothing but perverse this home with your twisted vision!
Benedict: You mean prepare it for a better tomorrow. Your soft hearted family wouldn't know any better if a hellspawn ripped it right out of their asses!
Maya: Mock our family again and I will turn your spine into a lightning rod. She growls at Benedict
Benedict: I would like to see you try, little girl. He says as he begin to march down the hill. He summon his spear from the shadows and gets into a offensive stance. I'm running on a very tight schedule here. So be good children and die quickly.
He demands darkly as he summons multiple nether stalactites on the ground towards the trio who moved out of the way. Vega rushes forward as Maya conjures spirit lightning balls to counter Benedict's darkness tendrils and small needles. In the midst of her dodging, Vega gets gets hit by the flying shards, but pushes through thanks to her armor. Vega shouts bastard in Spanish as she blocks the incoming shards and switches to charge towards Benedict with her spirit spear which she summon from her armor. Benedict was fighting both Maya and Sam simultaneously. Benedict proves to both women how dangerous he is in close quarters combat. As he is kicking both of their asses, Benedict notice Vega charging towards him. Benedict parry her charge and counters by kicking her toward Sam, knocking them both to the side and causing them to crash through some bushes and trees. Maya looks in horror as she proceeds to advance on Benedict. Her flurry of punches pushed him back until the final one made him skid back a few feet. Benedict then dodges her next strike with an nether pillar and proceeds to swipe her with his spear which he resummon into his hand. Maya hiss in pain when the blade scratches her body. She felt her wounds freeze like ice, but sting as if it is burning her from the inside. Maya grit her teeth as she then counters his attack with a quick uppercut, successfully hitting Benedict to his stomach and strong enough to push him at a distance again. Maya's hands spark with lightning as she gets into a fighting stance. Sensing Benedict's rising power, Maya begin using her Thunderbird powers. With a battle cry from Maya and a snarl from Benedict, both fighters clash metal and elemental spiritual power, both locked in a duel between nether straight from the pits of the underworld and the raging storm straight from the skies above. Both are now locked in mortal combat, testing their might against each other.
Meanwhile, Sam gains consciousness after getting knocked back, she felt weak while struggling to get up. Her body tired from the fighting, she let her regeneration kick in as she goes to help Vega up who is still unconscious. Once she knows that the lieutenant is alright, Sam tries to wake her up. Though she stood upright when she heard the bushes rustle and she can hear the clinks of chains.
Sam: Who's there? Show yourself!
Sam ordered she marches forward, but always turns her back to ensure she catches the noisemaker and that Vega is still there. The rustling on the trees caught her attention as she readies her short sword. She scans the trees with mix feelings of fear and bravery as she felt unfocused upon hearing Maya's and Benedict's fight at a distance. Ignoring the distraction, she hurriedly runs to Vega's direction.
Sam: Damn it, Vega, wake up!
Sam shouts only to be interrupted by a wild scream. With barely any time to react, V tackles her godsister to the ground. Sam's heart raced as V lunges forward preparing to bite her neck, only to be intercepted by Sam's weapon handle.
Sam: No...! Sam's eyes swell up after seeing V covered in blood, bleeding from the head, gazing back at her with big red eyes that stroke fear into her heart. V, snap out of it! It's me, Sam!
She begged as she gripped her weapon strong trying to strategize on how to break free of her sister's bite. V continued to growl at her sister, her inhuman strength starting to overpower Sam's own. Before V can do anything, she yelp in pain as a metal fist smack V in the face, sending her flying back. Sam struggle to get up which is aided by Vega.
Vega: You're welcome. She responds sarcastically as she gets ready to advance but Sam stops her in her tracks. What the hell are you doing?!
Sam: Just wait a damn minute!
Vega: Are you insane?! Look at her!
V just continues to grunt and growl as she recover from the blow. She slowly turns her head towards Vega and Sam. V can see their status: tired, fatigued, sorrow, rage and worried. She felt Sam's pain along with Vega's caution and for a moment, a sense of humanity grips her heart.
V: Sam...? V struggles to call her name, she snarls and tries to fight back the parasite lingering in her.
Vega: What the hell?
Sam: Ven? V, it's me. It's okay. Everything is going to be okay. Just... listen to me.
V tries her best to speak, but the pain in her heart and the feeling of bloodlust still rushes in her veins. Her mind clouded with the spectral image of the a large wolf from before stands before her.
Specter Wolf: She is nothing to you. The wolf voice whispers. Hurt her, then hurt the bad man.
V: I can't...! I won't...! Please... just leave me be.
Specter Wolf: YOU WILL OBEY ME!
The wolf howls, causing V to snap back into her enraged self with a pained scream. V sprints to Sam's position and manages to scratch her armor, causing bleeding. She continues another claw attack, only for Vega to should bash V to the side.
Sam: Lieutenant, wait!
Vega: Can't do that, Commander! That's not your godsister right now! We need to fight or else we'll both die!
With a shout, Vega charges toward V with a battle cry. Meanwhile, both Maya and Bemedict are have been continuing their combat, but the last few spiritual power had cost them to temporarily stop to take a breather, especially Maya who find it hard to breath normally due to the consistent fighting with her Thunderbird powers, not to mention that her wounds aren't fully healed. Maya takes cover behind a large tree in which Benedict fire a few nether aura shards at Maya's position which narrowly miss her.
Benedict: You're persistent! Impressive. Even I'm a little surprised. But even you have your limits. Benedict shouts at Maya You'll never save your cousin, Amaya! You know that it's useless to even try when she's out there killing innocents like a savage! Not even the greatest mind breakers will be able to snap her out of it!
Maya: If I were you, I would quit while I'm ahead, snake!
Maya rest her back on the tree with a pained sigh as she try to maintain her breathing. Her lungs are burning. If she continues, best case scenario, she will pass out. Who knows how long it will be until then for reinforcements like the Darkfires to show up. But she can't give up yet. Not now. Looking at the small leather pouch, she opens it and bring it to her mouth. She begin to slowly drink from it which will help her stamina and her injuries momentarily. She will continue to fight. For the people she loves. As she tries to regain her strength, Benedict comes out of hiding and begin walking toward Maya, growing impatient with her.
Benedict: You can come out of hiding, Amaya. You're on your own. He states as he spin his spear once, holding it behind him with one hand. I noticed some things during our duel. You're fighting with injuries that you haven't fully recovered and you've been overexerting your powers. It's a miracle that you're still standing. Zolnerowich or not, you're still human. You still have limits. You don't have the same firepower as your younger cousin and your younger sister. You're not even on the same level as those Darkfire Brothers. I get it. You're the eldest. You're supposed to be strong. But even you can't fight off an entire army and still have strength to fight someone like me. And if you're struggling to fight me, then you're nowhere near ready to face what is to come next, even if I die tonight. None of you are. The best option you have is to give up. I'm positive that you can be granted power to be the strongest to make your little dreams come true. But only if you're willing. It's not for the weak.
Maya has heard enough. Her dark brown eyes glow and spark dark blue in anger. She steps out her cover in front of Bemedict with a glare. Benedict observe Maya's physical status which made him snicker lightly in amusement under his helmet.
Benedict: So you do have tricks up your sleeve. I was beginning to worry for a moment. Even then, that little trick of yours won't last long. You push yourself too far, you'll pass out while ripping your own muscles.
Maya: I'll take those chances, doc. Maya snarls as she taps into her Thunderbird powers once more. Anything to destroy you, starting with your wicked heart!
Benedict: Then come! Show me what really makes you special, soldier.
With a flick of his wrist, Benedict goes into his offensive stance as he and Maya clash again, their powers lighting the dark forest which blind all who are witnessing this fight, even blinding Sam, Vega and V at a distance.
Vega: No way...! Is that...?
Sam: Maya?!
Sam calls while both her and Vega are shielding their eyes from the bright light. Meanwhile, V screams in pain as she shields her eyes and curls up. Seeing this, both Vega and Sam takes this opportunity to pin down V.
Vega: Use your spirit magic to kill the parasite festering inside of her!
Sam: What?!
Vega: I know, it's crazy but I manage to take a look while fighting Vendetta. I was looking for weaknesses, but I found something else instead. Now hurry!
V is snapped back into her subconscious as she is faced with the specter wolf again.
Specter Wolf: They will never break us apart. You belong to me now! You. Will. Obey. Me! The wolf's voice echoed through V's mind. I control you, Vendetta Zolnerowich! Something your mother owed me for far too long! Not that sorry excuse of a pup! Finish them. Then the bad man. Then everyone else.
V then felt her left hand gripping Sam's neck as she tries to fight off Vega. It was until V manage to snap out of once the parasite was weaken. V manage to scramble away from the two women with her wind powers, trying to force the parasite out of her. Meanwhile, the specter wolf tries to regain control, only to be stopped by Ragna who was free from his prison thanks to Sam.
Specter Wolf: You fool! Stop this and OBEY!
Ragna: Shut up! You don't control us! You have tarnished our spirits long enough!
Specter Wolf: Stop this! I own you both! Obey me! OBEY!
V: You don't own us! Now get out of our heads!
The specter cried out no in a desperate howl as both Ragna and V manage to banish the Specter Wolf out of her body due to not hearing it anymore. V then double over and cough violently until she spat out a large tapeworm from her mouth. Gasping, she gaze at the worm who tries slithering back to V, only to be stomped on by a disgusted Vega. It was hard to tell what is going on in Vega's mind due to her face being hidden behind the helmet, but Vega manage to pick up V and carry her over her shoulders.
Vega: Hurl on my armor and I'll toss you into the nearest river bank.
She states to V, who only responds by passing out. Vega carries V and hand her to a worried Sam.
Vega: She's still breathing. I think she'll be alright. She just needs rest.
Sam sigh in relief and gratefully place a hand on Vega's shoulder. Vega nod to Sam back. Though the bittersweet reunion was interrupted by the still glowing light and the screams of people.
Sam: Oh, crap! Maya!
Vega: Stay with the girl! I'll be right back!
Vega says as she sprints toward the battle, with Sam following close by with V in her arms. Unbeknownst to them, the essence of the specter wolf pulse before bleeding into the grass. Disappearing back to Cordath.
Back at the fight, the remaining knights notice Vega charging towards them again, making them advance on the soldier to keep her from interfering. Despite the brutal fight to the death, both fighters have suffered some injuries. Maya's lungs begins to sting and her wounds begin to reopen. She even has a new stab wound in her right side and left shoulder, but she pushes through once more ignoring the pain. Meanwhile, Benedict's breath becomes ragged and short as his powers begins to falters as well. Despite this, he ignores the pain as well as he continues to try to put the pressure on Maya.
Benedict: You think that you're the hero in this story?! There are no such things as heroes! Only animals killing each other for trivial things! Even if I were to die here, another will replace me. At the end, you're only delaying the inevitable! You can't save everyone! Your family can't even band together as one to go against mere followers! What will the plan be if someone far worse than comes to play and destroy everyone?!
Maya's eyes narrowed as she taps into a semi powerful state, which later on will be known as a semi version of her divine state.
Maya: We'll find a way. We always do.
Despite Benedict's best efforts, it was futile. Maya violently grabs Benedict by the throat and breaks his neck, bringing him to his knees. She then reels her arm back and punches Benedict's face with tremendous, thunder infused force from her gauntlet. This leaves a huge hole through Benedict's head, which she slowly pulls her arm back out, leaving her opponent to collapse.
Benedict: You.... saved... no one...
Benedict muster to croak out before succumbing to his wounds. Vega then arrives with Sam close behind, having an unconscious V on her back. Upon seeing them, Maya let out a small chuckle before collapsing onto the ground herself, her powers shutting down and her body succumbing to her injuries and fatigue. Vega barely manage to catch Maya as she ease her down.
Vega: Hey, hey! Stay with me!
Vega sigh softly in relief as Maya open her eyes weakly. Vega check on Maya's status as Sam catches up.
Vega: She's okay. Took one hell of a beating but she's tough. She even kicked that mad scientist's ass.
Sam: Heh. Not so tough now, are you?
She taunts the corpse as she lay the unconscious V by Maya. Both Zolnerowich family members safe. Maya notice V by her side, giving a weak smile before falling unconscious again. Before the two can say anything, they both jump up to their feet at the sound of night walkers lurking by. The two soldiers ready their weapons, fighting off their pain, especially Sam due to some blood loss.
Sam: Menu is closed, boys. Come again another time. She sneers as she readies herself for battle.
Vega: You'll have to go through us if you want them, you undead freaks.
The creatures slowly approaches them with claws and teeth ready for the taking. But before they could lunge at them, they have been struck by fire arrows and white magic. This scared off the remaining creatures who ran to their caves and dwellings. Vega can barely stand herself, let alone hold Sam up to process what had just happened. Before Sam can even comment, she pass out with Vega holding onto her. Crap, it was the blood loss from their scuffle with V.
Voice: THEY'RE HERE!
Voice 2: Get them out of there! Hurry!
These were the words Vega heard before finally closing her eyes, rememering seeing black flames from a distance. Unbeknownst to everyone, Benedict's corpse turns black before seeping into the darkness and disappears. A minor setback.
End
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