A burning sensation, quick and severe. It spread throughout his forarm, the Devil could feel his movements tightening and a loss in his grip.
"Impossible" spitting as he spoke, the Devil tried clawing at the cloth that bound him.
It was of little use for him to attempt, he lost his footing and fumbled. However, he did not fall.
Instead, the Devil flapped its wings and rose into the sky, taking Kuzunoha and the scroll along with him. They were several hundred feet in the air and the Devil turned to catch his prey.
His claws outstretched, the Devil tried to strike.
The slack of the scroll bolt rose behind the Devil as he flew, but once it left his field of vision it too changed direction. Suddenly, the Scroll darted around his wings, wrapping them tightly. The Devil could no longer defy gravity and the scroll itself had never released his forearm.
With another cinch, the Scroll drew the Devils forearm to his own throat while they plumited toward the ground.
Kuzunoha stopped in midair, surprising the Devil as she took the high ground. The scroll wrapped around the neck of the Devil and squeezed tight.
"'#*!$%_$~*#_~;{}" Without hesitation she began chanting in tongues.
"'#*!$%_$~*#_~;{}" Again and again she kept up the mantra and tones.
Boils and blistered appeared across the body of the Devil, its toxic nature roiling to the surface.
The Devil tried to mutter the word 'impossible' once more, but his neck snapped repeatedly.
The scroll was not done, cocooning the Devil it began to glow with intense light as the chanting continued.
"Devil. Be gone." Kuzuhona threw her hair back and landed on the sand below her. The energy she had used to cocoon the Devil was a little much.
The scroll had done its work. Of the devil, nothing remained but a core.
"No blood? too easy." Kuzunoha patted herself on the back, stored the core away and strode back into the Tower.
"Well, we're fine for now but I think its time we move." She wasn't wrong, Qu wanted to get away.
Qu scratched at his head a bit and kept repeating himself. "We need to get out of here, we have been discovered."
It was rare to see the Tower Spirit so flustered, Wu Hai didn't want to end his training for the evening but there was more for him to be doing than that. Very quickly, Wu Hai left the Tower. He spread out his spiritual sense to see what was in the area, he couldn't find the presence of demons or devils.
Kuzunoha tried to console Qu a bit, but it only served to increase his disposition.
Wu Hai stood before the Tower with the token and stored it. The Tower was shrunken and put away. Wu Hai channeled a darkness ring, then lightning orbs to create a teleportation circle. He was pressing his finger to the circle when a figure flashed in front of him to grab, it was too slow.. Wu Hai had already teleported away.
'That must have been the reinforcements' The Prince had taken himself and the Tower back to the Western Mountain's Entrance. The Elders had put aside several plots of land around the City for the Tower to be expanded upon, The Tower caught the sunlight exquisitely.
Entering the Tower, Qu was still anxious but he had calmed down some.
"I cannot feel the eyes upon us, but that doesn't mean we have escaped." Qu opened the main doors and had the new arrivals leave.
There was no room already in the tower, everyone was packed tightly for a few days during the Prince's training session. Qu was thrilled to have the space back and ported himself back to his chambers. There were things to consider, terrible things.
"We are not staying, I made a vow. I will keep it." Zao Wu Hai had a lot on his mind, but he couldn't deny that things were going to get crazy.
"Kuzunoha, please go get the other Onmyoji." The Prince didn't want to rely solely on Kuzunoha's preparedness against Devils, Demons and Undead.
"If I am to gather forces, you should go and get everyone." Kuzunoha patted Prince Wu Hai's chest and then used the light step to travel to the Castle.
There was a lot of skepticism about the limits of the Onmyoji, Kuzunoha was among their elite. If the Onmyoji forces were fully deployed, they may stand a chance against a singular Devil. But Kuzunoha was unique among them, she was far more practiced. It was also true that she would not depend on the help of others when given the chance, stubborn and enduring.
֍ꟷꟷꟷꟷ֍
There were thirty Judges on the panel, the World Courts had convened after the Chinese attack on Geneva. People from around the globe were watching, The Espers had sent their own representative.
Wuliao sat in the center of it all. He had been instructed to tell his story.
"My name is Wuliao. I was born in Shanghai, I was a patriot. I fought in the army as a youth, like most of our countrymen at the time. People died." He drew another breath to continue, he knew that his story would make a difference.
"I was Captive by a group known as the Syndicate, held in a laboratory and experimented on. The Guards were State Police. Then, one day.. a Man came. A Man from another World, he freed us and offered us a place to go. I fled. It was all too strange, and I was frightened."
Wuliao took a small drink of water from a glass on the table in front of him, his next words caught everyone off guard.
"I could hear the crazed and panicked thoughts of others, the City I grew up in was loud. I sought shelter in the mountains away from the world, to be forgotten and live a hermits life. It did not last very long, I met a young woman with her children in tow. They were being hunted by the same people who had imprisoned me. A Group up the mountain had given me food and shown me the cave to isolate myself. They gave me peace and comfort. They are the Priesthood of Zao."
"Led my the Brother of the Man who liberated me. A Man who was also a Patriot before he reincarnated, came back to this world to save his family and tried to save the world he once held dear!" Wuliao's voice grew in volume, he couldn't emphasis it the way he wanted and it resulted in a near yell.
"I AM NOT A SLAVE! I AM A MAN!" Wuliao pointed to the Chinese rep that was under guard and on the other side of the room.
"These people who imprisoned me did unconscionable, unspeakable acts on hundreds of us, perhaps thousands. If it was not for Zao Wu Hai's heroic act of freeing us, we would have died at the hands of these so called Scientists." Slamming his fist on the table, Wuliao knew he might have gone too far.. blood was trickling from his fingertips.
"And now. Now I sit in a room, filled with people who wish nothing but my immediate death. Don't believe me? You.." He pointed at a random Rep, the Turkish Representative looked around and was about to reply when Wuliao shocked the room again.
"You, you're more interested in getting back to your mistress than listening to what I have to say. And you, you're only interest is in gaining favor to exploit our group. It was your own leader who ordered it, don't try to deny it. I can hear your very thoughts. This goes for all of you, There is no lie that escapes me, no truth you can bury." People in the room began to shift, their private thoughts were being used against them.
"ORDER, ORDER." The moderator tried to regain the floor but there was more to be said.
"and you. Moderator. You keep thinking about money you've recieved, a bribe for these proceedings. Account number 43527135824-9... Bank of Madrid." Wuliao began pointing in one direction after another.
He revealed state secrets on national television, tales of scandals and rape, murder or fraud. He began exposing everyone with something to hide.
"I don't expect this world to change overnight, I don't think anyone does. However, if these people remain in places of perceived power they will only destroy what little you hold precious in the name of a greater good they refuse to explain. I have said my piece, and now my leader has some words to say himself." Wuliao stood up and stepped back a few feet.
A black dot appeared in the room and with a flash, Zao Ho had appeared.
"Greetings Earthlings." He laughed.
"I've been dying to say that since the 1950's. How many times does this world have to place its hopes and dreams in the hands of others? Why can each of you not do your own thing, and live your lives fully? Why do you war among yourselves when there is so much more out there." Ho pointed to the sky.
His heart was pounding, he had been leaving the Jungle City often in recent months and yet it was discussing it with outsiders that was bringing him to this state. "Evil will come to this world some day, like it had before. Devils and Demons are real. It was thanks to the civilizations of the past that we finally drove them from this world. Your own history speaks of them frequently, and yet you deny your own words as a people. Before the advent of printing presses, lies on paper were exceedingly rare. Read more, you're missing out on truth."
"I bring you choices, rather than ultimatum. Listen carefully. Leave my people alone. Anyone who is attempting to make contact with me, are my people and will be treated like Zao Clan members. They will also be held to our standards, and punished if breaking them. I did not ask this of Brazil, but I ask it now. Open your borders temporarily without restriction and guide those that wish to join me to the Jungle City gates. In return, I will leave all the precious metals 'from this planet' in my collections to your government." Ho took a seat and started writing some things down.
The floor was buzzing with questions, some people were still outraged from Wuliao's speech and others were downright bloodthirsty having their secrets shared with the world.
"The Government of Botswana offers its assistance, if Brazil does not." The south african representative saw an opportunity but it had passed quicker than his words.
"I have cleared such situations with our leadership, in principle we agree. Brazil accepts this offer." Ribeiro Lima, representative for Brazil refused to give up their well earned position of favor.
Zao Ho looked the court over, he began again by speaking softly at first. "Very well, Who represents China now that their secretary general and president are things of the past?"
It was a shallow question, Ho knew that it would strike a nerve. He had killed many people during the night and more were to come.
"I nominate Wuliao, because he doesn't want it." Ho surprised everyone, including Wuliao.
"No. Ancient One, I beg you.. no." Wuliao's plea was sincere,
Zao Ho couldn't subject the man to such a forced life, he said "I understand, I only mean to impress my desire to have someone honest in the position. Perhaps you could pick the next leader instead?"
"If you commanded it." Wuliao knew that Ho was aware of his psychic abilities, despite their differences in direction Wuliao was respectful instead of mindful about the Prince.
"I would never do such a thing, but you must oversee it. We cannot allow a repeat of this to happen." Ho turned back to the world courts.
His eyes flickered and he rose into the air on a bed of darkness. There were no eyes that were not on him in that moment. "I forbid conflict among nations while we remain on this world. Those who disobey will brought before me personally."
Channeling his abilities, Zao Ho encircled Wuliao and they teleported back to the Jungle City's interior.
""ORDER"" ""ORDER!"" The Moderator slammed his gable down repeatedly and brought attention back to the room.
The live audience had yet to turn off the monitors when he began speaking. "While I abhor the idea of being held under someone else's thumb, this Esper is right. We cannot fight among ourselves for pettiness any longer. China paid a heavy price for its arrogance and shortsightedness. I will not allow the EU to share their fate, we shall adhere to a strict non-interference pact for the time being. Violation will be reported directly to the Esper Liason.. Jan Trensta."
"Are you really going to hand over control of world policy to an alien force?" The Chinese rep was still infuriated about the situation and couldn't help but lash out.
"Of course, they have a lot more credibility than your government has 'ever' had." The Moderator closed the session and returned to his chambers.
The internet was buzzing again with conspiracy forums as well as fan sites for the Espers,
People were packing, selling assets and chartering one way trips to Brazil.
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A bloodied figure marched through the snow, his feet were bare.
-{"You are almost there"} Ferser pushed Zhan to the limits, there was rarely time to stop moving let alone rest or relax.
"How much longer?" Zao Zhan was not worried about the length of his journey, he was merely concerned about his goal being disregarded.
-{"Another Camp is on the other side of this wall. The brood had an elder, I do not think you can take him in your state. You must learn to shut off your senses and become unfeeling. Taking off your boots is suppose to help you ignore sensations, but you are not there yet.} Ferser never failed to spoil a mood.
Zhan stood up and peered over the wall to the Camp. Ferser was right. Almost 30 robed figures stood around an alter of frozen blood. A beast laid on the alter, eviscerated. Its blood pooling to a bowl in the middle.
'Ritual?' Zhan was curious.
-{"Yes, It seems this is one I haven't witnessed. We should make use of their distracted states to attack, with their numbers it will be hard for you.} Ferser seemed a bit interested, some of the rituals that he had seen had interesting uses.
'I want to get stronger' Zhan pulled out his bow.
"Oh green Goddess, wrap your arms around mine and aim me true. bring forth a rain for life." Zhan remembered the incantation for Sharp-Rain while he focused his eyes on the lead Vampire.
As storm clouds churned above him, the first water drops began to fall. Sacred waters pattered across the ground and atop the ritual offering. The brazier grew cold in an instant, the burning flesh of the Vampires was regenerating at a slow rate. Screams and crazed looks were thrown about.
Then an arrow brought a silence. An Arrow of Kerawood caught the vapor as it passed, blessing its shot. The Vampire Elder twisted in pain when the arrow pierced its throat. Light effects caused those around the Elder to flinch, giving Zhan an opening to attack.
He channeled his energy into his fingertips and drew the bowstring again.
'29' Releasing another arrow, Zhan darted to through the treeline.
The Arrow brought down a lesser vampire clergy member.
'28' Keeping count as he went, Zao Zhan started firing as fast as he could.
He would make use of the distance between them for as long as possible.
-{"Why only conjure arrows? They are Vampires, pierce their hearts and heads with wood."}
"I'm doing that, why not use an effective wood?" Zhan huffed and puffed.
The Prince didn't have the energy to hide his inner thoughts, speaking them was much more therapeutic in the situation.
-{"You must learn better methods, this one isn't so bad but it won't work on opponents that outclass these"} Ferser's approval withstanding, Zhan felt pretty good about the rate that he was growing.
"I will never give up." Zhan's arrow pierced the heart of yet another Vampire.
'17 left'
֍ꟷꟷꟷꟷ֍
Secretary of the Press for the United States was giving a speech about withdrawing troops from ongoing international affairs, the news from Geneva had been a world altering event. "We have made all inquiries on information concerning the Esper public, please feel free to reach out to your local and state level representatives if you wish to join the exodus. In one week, we will begin ferrying and flying any citizen that wants to leave the country to Brazil."
Tapping the papers down to straighten them out while obviously annoyed, he stood there, straightened the microphone and continued.
Puffing up his cheeks and exhaling loudly into the microphone he said, "There have been numerous attempts to bring people into the ports along Brazil's coastline, however there a number of complications due to the overwhelming number of of people arriving from across the globe. Other nations have also been helping transport their departing citizens. Brazil does not have the resources for a long term occupation of the City, the national food supply will be greatly affected. We have prepared aide, but the United States cannot feed the world's fleeing masses alone or forever. We urge citizens to donate their property to others when they leave, how you do that is your choice. The President has a few words he'd like to share. I yield the floor to him. Thank you."
After being led into the room by Secret Service, the President stood before the podium.
"Members of the Press, We have an unprecedented event in front of us. Our overpopulation has found a solution to itself, even if it is only temporary. While it might not be an act of pure charity to help deport, export and transport people from our nation to Brazil, as a nation that values the concept of freedom we cannot and will not dare stop our people's ambition. There are no guarantees that have been given by the Espers that assure you will be chosen, but Zao Ho has spoken strongly about his stance of non-aggression so long as we allow people to come. As a father, I understand the desire to keep your family close, many of you are traveling as complete families. We here in Washington want you all to be safe as you travel." Three flags flew behind the president, one for America, one for the state of Washington D.C., and one of the Zao Clan.
The President had more to say, but sentiment and observation were not always the same thing. He felt the weight of the abandonment the people were swarming toward. The Earth had its problems, but the long history of the world and heritages were precious things..
For him, he couldn't understand it entirely until his children spoke of leaving the night before.
Watching the event in Geneva changed everything, people opened their eyes wide. Some saw the Demons and Devils, Some saw the sanctuary that nearly all religious groups spoke of. For the President and his family, it was an end to a way of life. No matter the outcome of the Zao Clan's impending arrival there was nothing that would remain the way it once was. Many of the questions of the universe and life were answered, just like that.
"While I do not believe that everyone will be able to join the passage into the Other World, I do believe that many of our children will also be departing. It is a sad thing for this country and this world. We can do things differently in their absence. Perhaps our petty differences will destroy us, perhaps not. I choose to believe in the depth of men, and the courage of tomorrow. Those that choose to remain, we cannot give up. For a brighter future, we must do as my father would have done. Only this time we must 'Make Earth Great Again.'" Giving his families trademarked envocation, The President stood down from the podium and was escorted out.
The secretary of the press once again took the microphone in hand. "Are there any questions, quick questions?"
Scanning the room, one reporter asked "Will the President's children be joining the exodus?"
"No comment." he stopped the question flat.
"Do you think the remaining members of the Democratic party will try to sneak into the Jungle City? We've heard on several forums that they plan to create their ideal society on every planet once they've gained access." The National Juggle was a sock puppet style news outlet, but after the appearance of the Espers they had a myriad of unorthodox questions that bordered on insanity.
"The Democratic Party died with Joey Bribes, and like most socialists they cannot survive in the wild. The Other world is a wild world, democracy will be a luxury for villages and impossible for a Kingdom. The President is set to meet with the Zao Representives next week. We will have more information at that time." He was furious, but kept a calm tone.
Another question came from near the Emergency Exit. "How can you be sure? There are people from all over the world arriving in Brazil right now, its almost a landslide of people. The Nation of Brazil is said to have taken in over one million people today, they stopped bothering to check incoming ships at customs as well. Its a mad house, but no one is daring to start a conflict."
"Do you have a question in there?" The smaller press outlets had a tendency to make statements instead of questions, even though he had asked if the white house was sure it didn't translate very well.
"I asked, how can you be sure that members of the Nazi Party aren't trying to sneak over to the other world?" repeating his question with a slightly different flare, the reporter felt accomplished.
"You're asking me? I think that they will be turned away, Wuliao's performance in Geneva proved that they will not be accepting crazy people. The Government of Brazil has handed temporary authority of its Nation to the Espers. You wanna ask me if I think that's okay? I think its nuts, but what else can I do besides object. I think I've answered enough questions for the day. Thank you very much for coming. Jan Trensta will be making a press statement in the morning. See you then." It didn't take long for the Secretary of the Press to leave the room, the whole ordeal was a bit lopsided.
The secretary himself was somewhat interested in seeing the other world, even if he were accepted it would mean that he leave everything behind. There was no television on the Esper's world, leaving would mean giving up all that he had built or accomplished. It was the same for millions of people who had started to make the journey.
Jungle City became a Mecca, people kept arriving by the Hour.