Since we are born, our fate is determined; That's what we are made to believe in.
Money…Power…Fate…These are the things that really matter – this world was not forged for all. The strong feed upon the weak, that's all there is to it.
But one day this world will come to an end.
Behind the darkness, a little demon opens his eyes. This demon is a light grey creature, that only comes up to three feet in height. He has a rounded head that is a tad too big for his bode, with three spiked formations on it and a stitched scar on his left side. Additionally it has a white armband on both arms and a circle hole on the middle of his chest, outlined by a white layer.
-Hi everyone, don't be afraid and gather around. My name is… well it doesn't really matter, you will soon forget it anyway; But let me tell you a story, I'm good at telling stories. It's not like it's a fiction story, it's actually more like a biography; And I think it's really cool, it involves all the cool stuff you want in a good story: some cool characters, special powers, mystery, some OP old geezers, interesting antagonists, dazzling fights, some neat plot twists, with a little bit of betrayal, character's development, and a plot. A nice plot. Well slow sometimes, but you get the picture. – declares the little demon, with a malicious smile.
- I think I can do some past-present situation shit, right? It will be more entertaining, I think. But first let's set the big picture of this world. It's not really complicated, but there are some points you have to keep in mind. – says the demon reaching for an old TV, turning it on.
"The old story says it all started with the gods. They reigned over all the other living beings, without defiance: it was the natural course. Out of mercy, the gods decided to give some of their essence to humans, trying to have humanity achieve new heights. The emerging super-humans were the result; these new powers came with some sort of drawbacks: their bodies could not handle the god's essence, which would be known as Essentia.
The abilities that were obtained differed from individual to individual. There were some who could control an element like fire, but their insides would burnout when manifesting their power; there were others that gain a mutation type ability, only to be consumed by their new savage instincts and retain the appearance of them; there were cases of giantism, be it total or partial that would result on break bones when returning to normal.
The new abilities open the door to new wars between humans for power and the gods intervened; however, the gods would not resist the mankind's numbers, not with the powers that were given. The gods, beings that were never defied, would meet their end… Soon, a new society would be ruled by power, influence, and fear.
It was the beginning of a new age. The world hierarchy would be brand new and the war for its power was just the beginning. Madness, conspiracies were consuming those that seat on the throne. The darkness lurks around each and every one, when given the taste of power. This was the fate of those controlling the world, the leader of the Nation."
- A nice intro, am I right? There is much more to it, but we'll get there. – remarks the demon turning off the TV – To cut story short: the gods found human race was too weak and tried to fix that giving out some of their pretentious 'god essence' to them. Such a really good idea, so well thought…hihihihi- mocks the demon.
- Surely the humans would use the powers to make a prosper era and would not give in to their greed… wha?! The humans betrayed the gods' expectations?? No way!!
The demon shakes his head – What the hell did the gods expect? Of course, they would do that. Thanks a lot gods, you lead to this world's order breakdown and to never ending wars for power and territories. Nice one, you fuckers!
The darkness starts to crack, revealing parts of a white room.
-This story is about how this dystopian world was shattered. Don't blink, or you may miss it. – proclaims the demon with a malicious smile as he turns back on the odd TV. The image starts static again, but slowly begins to form a clear picture.
*****
It's nighttime. In Thartan city, an unusual shadow sneaks into a wrecked house. The man is cautious of his surroundings as he arrives to the corner room in his dark grey cloak. It's dark, and as the man travels across the decaying room and broken glass, he reaches his destination. The man invokes some Essentia on his hand and its light illuminates the area, exposing a child covered in sheets.
-I finally found you – whispers the man as he stooped – I'll do what I can.
The man unveils the sheets, revealing a little girl, who's sweating and trembling. The hooded man rolls up his sleeves and chants: "Blood Breath: Init".
Red shapes of energy start to emanate from his arm, wrapping around the girl. As soon as engulfs her chest, a light aura appears surrounding her; She wakes up in excruciating pain, gasping, and squirming as she could.
-IT HURTS, IT HURTS!!! – screamed the red hair girl.
-I'm sorry, it's the only way I can save you. Hold on, little miss. – the man takes a deep breath – "Blood Breath: Bond".
The aura around the girl intensifies and manifests physically, as it blows away anything near. The man remains in the same spot, carrying on with his plan while his hood gets overthrown, showing an aged man with a russet grey beard. Soon, the aura's color would darken, and this fact didn't escape to her visitor.
- "RELEASE"
Just like it began, it was over; the Essentia covering the room would dissipate, leaving almost no trace of it. The man stands up and trembling due to the aftereffects, but the girl seems to have settled down. A burning crest is seen shining on the child's chest, the proof of the ritual conclusion.
-It's done. I'll leave the future to you. I hope that we can meet again. – declares the cloak man as he prepares to vanish.
*****
A cloaked figure emerges from a dark Essentia teleport on the Warrant Central roof. From there it can be seen all Thartan city, from the old cathedral to the big mansion. The cloak man takes a dagger from his coat and slits his hand without hesitation. Blood starts to flow, pouring down at the roof.
- "Blood Breath: Seeker"
The blood drops that were shed by the man resonate with each other and started to establish some kind of connection. After a few moments, the blood forms a symbol, a characteristic shield creed. The man makes a forced smile, while emanating some Essentia on his right hand to stop the bleeding.
-It had to be there, huh? This is going to be a pain in the ass. I hope this really works out. M, it's almost do…
Breaking his self-speech, the man notices that has someone on his trail, and is getting close. As a wanted man, he leaves as fast as he can.
5 minutes later, an eight cell team arrive to the roof. It's Thartan City's Special Task Force, led by Charles "Sly" Solomon, a veteran commander that is feared for his cunning mind and his flawless control over his Essentia ability: Soft Flow. Charles can be recognized for his eccentric outfit, a red and blue brightly colored motley, and his stylish moustache.
-He's gone, huh? – observes Solomon, while rubbing one of his moustache tips.
The men make a quick search of the area, finding out the blood symbol splattered on the roof. It was clear it was that man's ability trademark.
-Sir, take a look at this.
«…Really? Asmund, Luther? »
-Contact Holtz, he will be thrilled with the news. Who knew this was going to happen… - says Solomon, as he strokes his moustache – I can't believe that he's going to Asmund after everything… one of the most wanted man alive diving into the belly of the beast. What kind of nutjob would do this?
-Sir, should we trace and follow him?
-No, even if we could trace him, we could not deal with them alone. This mission was to monitor his actions, and we didn't deliver. But he's going out of town, so our job is done. Time to wrap this up. Destroy any traces left by Darkmore.
-Yes sir.
«He's just a shadow of his past self, but nevertheless he's still the former Oath Legion number two and the Red Prophet. This is becoming once again truly bothersome, but it doesn't concern me anymore. What a relief that I won't be the one to take on that monster. » - thinks commander Solomon, smirking.
*****
The TV turns off all of a sudden. Without a second thought, he simply stares, with his malicious full white eyes, with some conflict expression.
-Well, I think I have to give you some info about Asmund first… - says the demon while dressing a cap and a university cloak – It's time for school guys!
A map appears, where is engraved the title Jarwen.
-Let's start right away, shall we? Asmund is known as the slum city of Jarwen Country, one of the big five countries on Crimson Continent. The city is oppressed just like any Nation territory, ruled by fear and iron fist. Anyone who defies the Nation will be reduced to ashes, and I'm afraid there is no exceptions. Even though it's like that, Asmund's nights entertainment is known throughout the whole continent, contributing to be one of the most profitable cities. You can do all kind of stuff there, there's so much incredible cultural things: robberies, murders, illegal gambles, the red-light district…oh the red-light district… - the demon kinkily smiles - I should have enjoy it while I could. But I'm starting to lose focus, so let's get back to that old man quest, shall we?
*****
It's raining at Asmund City. An old and tired man arrives its vicinity, knowing that come back to this city would mean bring up the past again. But he made a promise, there's no way around it.
«Every time it rains like this, it makes me remember about that day. I really miss you M, but I will fulfill our promise, no matter what. »
The Asmund rusty and ancient gates, recognizable for its Asmund's maroon symbols, are the only way in and out of the city. The city is surrounded by sturdy walls and watchtowers. And on the present day the watch guard was even reinforced, due to the information sent by Thartan's Task Force. As one of the Nation's most profitable cities, Asmund has the biggest army on Crimson Continent, in exchange of a large donation to the Nation trust fund done every month. This army consists of 8 squads, each with its war veterans and new talents blooming from all over the globe, including some of the top rated Essentia users. Using the Asmund army outfit is only possible to the very best. This is the power that wealth can buy. With the constant harassment of rebels against the nation, more than half of the squads are out of town, leaving the 3rd and 4th squad on the city. But with the information that the Red Prophet was coming to town, it was sent the request that the 1st squad would return from war frontlines to backup Asmund. That was how much of a threat the intruder was.
At the gate entry, the 3rd and 4th squad were gather waiting for their unwanted guest. The 3rd squad was composed by many youngsters, and that would lead to be the youngest squad among all the Asmund's Army. Even thought they were inexperienced when compared to the other squads, they hold the most potential Essentia wise. Among them, the 3 troublemakers Luke Howell [Essentia Ability: Fiber], Troy McClay [Essentia Ability: Haste] and Philip Peck [Essentia Ability: Sound] were annoyed by their sudden summoning.
-I don't get it. Why would you need to call the 3rd and 4th squad to deal with some geezer? – inquires Luke - And we are here standing for hours already.
-Yeah, and I overheard that even the 1st squad was requested to comeback…- says Troy while shaking his head- 3 squads to take care of an old man. I don't understand the need to call all of us. This is just ridiculous.
-I heard that old man is crazy strong, and one of the most wanted men of the Nation for years. – declares Philip.
Troy giggles. – Strong? We trained in order to become elites and reach the 3rd squad of Asmund. Even if it were just the 3 of us, we could handle this easily. And who knows, maybe Commander Haze would reward us with some nice vacations.
-Yeah, even though he was one of the most wanted man 10 years ago, he disappeared and he's older now. He certainly doesn't mean shit nowadays. – Luke
-You say that, but I also heard that he was the one who made the scar on commander's face 5 years ago. – Philip.
-I think you overheard that Peck. To injure our commander is almost impossible, and leave that scar? An old man couldn't do that. You know that each new generation has a better Essentia control, so we are fated to be strong that the previous gen. I bet that it was another squad commander that scarred our commander, like Commander Gibbon.
-It's what makes sense, this old man doesn't stand a chance. The Nation has to review their data and update the marked book.
As the three squad mates were chatting, a light golden ponytail with a bun man approaches them. This man possessed a strange metal bat, with three saws surrounding it. At his long white coat, is possible to see at his left side the 1st squad emblem.
-You really think that you can handle that monster? What a fucking joke! Even the 3 squads may not be enough to beat him down. We have to go for the kill if we want to survive.
-C-c-c-com-commander!!-shout the three soldiers at once, while getting in formation.
It was in fact commander Haze Moltz [Essentia Ability: Resonating Metal]. The youngest squad commander in Asmund history; His battle achievements are taught on Asmund army academy, and his vicious style makes him feared by every Asmund enemies. The meander like scar that crosses his lip on the left side to his chin was made in a battle against the Oath Legion guild, where he was the sole survivor. Haze would be known as one of the few that survive a Oath Legion's strike on the infamous Battle of Hallow Hill. He's also known for originate the high number of deserters recruiting wise, due to his old barbaric spartan trainings.
-You guys seem too eager to get some action…want me to provide some extra training?
-It's not really necessary sir. We need to be ready for when the enemy arrives – says nervously Luke.
-Yeah, we don't need more sparta - - I mean, splendid training, sir.
-You guys always drag me into these messes. – mutters Philip.
As Haze continues to lecture his squad members for their nonchalance attitude, a tall and slender guy puts his hand on Haze's shoulder. The long silky hair would reach his lower back, hiding the peculiar chest armor that he had, while his arms seemed much longer than they should be. This would be strange if it weren't the 4th squad commander Austen Schwartz [Essentia Ability: Bio-Magnify]. He is known as a creepy and sadistic member even among the Asmund Army, leading to a series of killing on his own squad. He shows absolutely no mercy for the weak.
-Oh, come on, be nice to your squad Hazey-boy. They can't know how terrifying Darkmore can be. This new generation, I tell you, I think it doesn't show respect to anyone – says Austen, and in a provoking tone continues – Even I cannot even phantom how strong he is…but your scar does, isn't that right? Kukukuku
Haze fix his gaze towards Austen and shakes off his hand from Haze's shoulder.
-Hands off, you annoying creep. Darkmore has to be reaching his limits, based on the reports. Even so he's coming here, knowing that we are expecting him. Cornered animals are the most dangerous. He really is a monster.
-Hmmm, sounds like you are a Darkmore's fanboy. Are you going for a rematch or are you defecting our army? – provokes Austen.
-He's one of the greatest of all time, it's natural that I admire him – says Haze as he strokes his old scar – The Hallow Hill's battle was decided singlehandedly by him; He defeated more than 120 soldiers, leaving only me alive with this scar as warning. His essential control is second to none, he's a fucking monster. I trained during these 5 years to stand a chance against him, but I can't say that even with whole army we could defeat him without a large wipeout. – Haze coldly stares at Austen – You can go stretch those arms of yours somewhere else, I don't care.
-Don't be like that. And you have that image of that old man, but years have passed, who knows if he even can use Essentia after so many years being chased. My squad is at the outer layer and could have already captured him, you might not even have a chance to face h—
KABOOOM!!!
The gate explodes. More than a third of the troops stationed on the first line of city's defense were wiped out. Every soldier is speechless seeing an attack of this magnitude; The only thing replacing what formerly was known as the Asmund city entrance is big black cloud of smoke. Soon, the smoke starts to dissipate, revealing a shadow of just one man. Everyone could fill his presence.
-He's here. – states Haze, preparing his battle stance – Luther Darkmore.
The intruder shakes off the dust from his cloak due to the explosion. As he walks in, it is drawn a grey beard on a 50's man face; his shady grey coat has the extinct Oath Legion creed on his back. It was the same man that had escaped Thartan City days ago. It was indeed the Red Prophet, 2nd man in command of the legendary Oath Legion guild, the conqueror of the Blue Storm, the Crimson Battle Imp, and a top priority on the Nation's marked book, Luther "The Red Prophet" Darkmore. He's known for his extreme rare Essentia Ability: Bloody Road, and to have achieved the limits of this aptitude. The Nation would try to erase every information regarding Oath Legion and any other extinct threats so that it could quench any new opposition movement. The new gens aren't taught about it, as it can be dangerous, or so the Nation says. As such, they don't fear confronting people like Darkmore: ignorance is a bliss. But war veterans, that face Oath Legion, know of him. There was a saying about Darkmore: "The question isn't who's going to fight him, it's who's going to sacrifice for the others get a chance to run".
-Hello everyone. What a warm reception, did you throw a party just for me? I'm flatter really, but I'm sorry, I have a tight schedule tonight, so can you move aside? – requests Darkmore with a careless smile.
Austen changed to a serious expression, sweating; he could sense Darkmore's strength from where he stood. He thought that Darkmore was overrated by those who talk about him, but now he thinks that there might have been some underestimation.
«What a fucking monster, and he's not even on his prime. » Austen starts to emanate his Essentia.
-Are you getting cold feet, you freak? – teases Haze, as he unsheathes his special metal club. -If you want to run, now is the time.
-Who's says that I'm afraid? I'm excited – says Austen, while his remaining men assemble – Let's see what he can do about this. 4th squad execute ploy #2, full power.
-Yes, sir. – replied the 4th squad soldiers as they conjure Essentia and channel it to the member Vasco Hill [Essentia Ability: MultiShot]. His body was burnt, for the excessive use of his ability, even more without a proper Essentia ability of conversion between the other soldiers and Vasco.
-I'm ready sir. – says Vasco in clearly pain.
-Good. FIRE! – orders Austen.
-Youngsters, can you let this old man go just this one ti-- -tries Darkmore, but it gets interrupt by an eminent attack, from multiple Essentia arrows coming from different directions. -It's going to be like that, huh?
His smile disappears and his eyes appear to be burning, right before the impact. A large dust cloud emerges from the attack explosion. Vasco is in serious difficulties to remain standing up, and his skin seems to have been burn again. The other members are supporting him, as they try to find Darkmore.
- Did we get him?
- "Blood Road: Red Claw"
- I don't know. I can't s —
In an instant and coming from where the attack hit, red rough shaped Essentia slices cut down every 4th squad member. Austen is speechless as his men drop on the spot.
-3rd squad, get ready! Let's give him a day to forget! – yells Haze, as he conjures Essentia on his club – formation D!
The remaining units of Haze's squad gather all their Essentia on Raihan Vickers [Essentia Ability: Convection], whose ability makes it possible to channel Essentia between bodies, the drawback of it is that is only possible at direct contact, and is impossible to do more than once each day. Vickers would collect all the other members' Essentia and give it to Tomek Giles [Essentia Ability: Rampart]. Giles can forge shield walls, and its duration and its resilience depends on his Essentia levels. The downside of his skill is that he's arms are sealed for ten times longer than the time used during his ability.
Haze chose these two members among the elite because of the synergy that they could get, having in mind this present confrontation. With some practice and talent, Essentia ability users can match their abilities up, forming a more powerful skill; this process is nominated as Essentia Sync.
-Transfer complete- informs Raihan- Let's do it.
- "Essentia Sync: Rampart + Convection: Mighty Fortress"
Multiple inscriptions circle signs are developed from Giles and expand. An enormous Essentia orb is created, shielding every Asmund soldier.
Darkmore reappears when the dust settles. He makes an unpleasant smile and condenses a big red orb liquid orb.
- Nice trick, I have to congratulate you for it. But I'm in a hurry. "Condense"- the orb stabilizes, with some dark red projectiles surrounding it. – "Blood Bolt"
Darkmore's attack is blasted against the shield. The shield withstands it at first, but soon it starts to break.
-It's impossible…not even Commander Haze could break it.
-What a monster…
-How can he be cracking our barrier?
The shield wears off, breaking into pieces. The 3rd squad members have exhausted all their Essentia for the defense shield, while Darkmore advances to them, forming an Essentia aura around his whole body.
"Bloody Soul Assault"
A red flash travels between each and every 3rd squad soldier, knocking them down.
-These kids have potential, and the way they could sync up…it was you Haze, wasn't it? – asks Darkmore, while his skin darkens up – Don't worry, I left them alive, but they need some time to rest.
-After this power display, now I know what you meant, Haze.
-Yeah. So if you don't wanna die, follow me, and don't get in my way.
The 2 squad captains take the initiative. Haze surrounds his club with Essentia, while Austen already magnified his arms, doubling their size.
-LET'S DO THIS! - yell both of them.
-I maybe old, but I think I can still manage you two brats. – smirks Darkmore.
Austen tries an uppercut from the right side, while Darkmore ducks; at the same time Haze goes with a club swing from the left, which Darkmore counters by elbowing between Haze's hands, cutting his momentum. The 2 squad captains attack Darkmore simultaneously from both sides, only to discover it was an afterimage. Darkmore reappears behind Schwatz and has his right arm equipped with red armor and as he was about to punch, Haze defends Schwatz with his club, breaking it into pieces.
-Damn it! He broke your stupid bat, now what?
Darkmore seemed displeased. Haze starts to gather more Essentia than before, looking back to Schwatz.
-I didn't show any of you my true ability, this match isn't over yet. Follow me. – says Haze- "Metal Resonance: Magnet"
Haze uses his essentia ability to control his metal club fragments, channeling essentia to each fragment and uses them to attack Darkmore, who activates a red spherical barrier around him. As the barrier forms, Schwatz stretches his arms and grabs Darkmore's collarbone and pulls him out of the barrier before she closes completely; the remaining soldiers would reuse the transfer essentia again and fire a new Essentia ray towards Darkmore. He could repel the grab of Schwatz but not in time to avoid the lightning, causing an explosion. As smoke clears out, a red beam is projected against the soldiers, making them unconscious. Darkmore is injured on his right arm.
-We finally got him – smiles a fatigued Austen, falling into his knees.
-Yeah, but we are the only 2 persons still standing, and I can't gather enough Essentia for more than 2 attacks. – says Haze with his right arm injured, and bleeding from his head. He looks to Darkmore and shivers- And now that monster is really pissed.
-It's days like this that I think I should rethink my life. -jokes Austen.
At the same time, Darkmore exhales and starts gathering an even bigger Essentia orb.
-It's time to wrap this up, I can't waste more time here. -declared a gasping Darkmore, coughing up blood - «Blood Breath: Burnout Bo- -»
Before Darkmore could launch other attack, he is sniped by a lightning shot on his left shoulder, making him disperse his attack. He drops on his knees, covering his new wound.
From the busted gate appears the 1st squad, leaded by Cosmo Gibbon [Essentia Ability: Arsenal]. His ability makes it possible to turn any object on a random weapon. The 1st squad returned from the Sleeping Forest battlefield to backup Asmund. This squad is known for its cold and precise Commander orders; Commander Gibbon seems detached from emotions, and all his men are known for following his commands without fail.
-Cough, cough, cough… I'm getting to old for this- announces Darkmore as he flinches because of the pain.
Haze and Schwatz walk towards the injured man. Schwatz grabs Darkmore's right leg and throws him in the air with his long arm, catching him in the air and smashing him again and again against the ground, like he was a broken doll.
-That's enough, Austen. It's time to finish this. – orders Gibbon with a cold gaze.
Schwatz seems annoyed for dropping Darkmore on the ground, who is clearly hurt. Nevertheless, he smiles sarcastically knowing that Darkmore's end is near, even though he hates Gibbon and his boring orders.
-You're so grown up, little Cosmo. I still remember you learning how to control Weapon Essentia Force with Lowther. I thought that you would take his steps. I guess I was wrong hehehe cough, cough. -says Darkmore trying to catch a breath.
Cosmo seems unfazed.
-You do not respect the world's order; I could not follow you. See where you end up: The Oath Legion was destroyed; all your friends were killed or are being hunt down. All that for following Maddox and his crazy ideas…-says Cosmo while unsheathing his sword – Do you not regret it, not even one bit?
Darkmore coughs up blood. His face is sad.
-It's true, I lost everything that matter to me. My oldest friends are dead, the guild that we made to have a place where we all belong was abolished, the people who believed in what we were doing are being persecuted…all because of our ambition.
-I will end your suffering, for the old time's sake – says Cosmo imbedding his essentia to his sword.
-But you know, I do not regret the choices made. Even if I have to die here, there will always be someone who'll take Maddox's will and try to make it right what is wrong. I hope that someday you'll understand that. My only regret is that I could not save the last one.
-Goodbye, Luther. Your era has finally come to an end. – says Cosmo lifting his sword.
Darkmore looks resigned with his death. As Cosmo is about to strike him, big metal chunks pierce his body. He drops his sword and as he looks back, Haze condenses a big metal orb and squash it down on Cosmo; as he takes Cosmo out of picture, Cosmo's men quickly get on fighting stance. All the present Asmund's guards are against Haze.
-Is this a joke, Moltz? What the hell do you think you're doing? – asks a shocked Austen – Are you crazy?
Haze seems unfazed by the reaction of Austen, and walks in front of Darkmore, ready to protect him.
-Old fart, leave. You have to finish what you have started.
Haze turns over to Austen, pointing his left index finger. His look became even more serious.
-Austen, you're a prick. I don't have to give you any explanation, you creep; I have my reasons to do this. You use your power to bully the ones that are weaker than you. I know what I am doing means to defy the world government, but I already made my choice. – Haze starts remaking his bat on his hand, with his ability.
-Now you're showing your true colors, huh? I know that you were not Nation material ever since I met you. – replies Austen.
Darkmore starts to get up. He inhales and smiles.
-Maybe it's not my time to die, huh? You're right, I still have something to finish.
-Old man, don't die on me. We still have a score to settle between us, this scar will continue to tingle until I get my revenge. – says Holtz as he finishes recreating his metal bat again. – With this we're even. We will meet up again.
-Kid, if we get out of this one, you can count on it. – promises Darkmore as he gathers essentia to flee, while Haze and Austen face each other.
As they prepare for battle, the large metal orb that was drop down implodes, revealing an angry Cosmo injured across his body, with his vest torn apart.
-I hope you're prepared to suffer, Haze. I will carve you a brand new scar to make you remember this moment. Death is too good for you; I will take you to Stormford. -says Cosmo as he gets his sword engulfed in essentia- but first I will kill that old men and end this, as planned. – he proceeds to blast the condensed essentia slash towards Darkmore.
Just before the attack reached Darkmore, Haze cut off the attack with his bat.
– You old fart, get going!
-Thank you, kid. I hope you can get out of this too. I promise I will return to help you when I can. – says Darkmore as he proceeds to disappear from the scene, leaving a dark red Essentia fainted trace.
- Now us, Commander Haze. It's time for your punishment for going against the Nation orders. – declares Cosmo as he summons dual blades, with every 1st squad member and Austen by his side.
Haze breathed in. He knew that his winning chances were practically null, but it was his choice, so he was in peace with himself. He points his bat to the remaining Asmund troops.
-You should live the way you want, and trust in what you believe. I don't have any regrets for what I've done since the day I was born and if I have to die facing you, so be it. – Haze dashes to confront them with a devious smile, covering his bat with all his remaining essentia -Let's do this!
*****
As the fight between Haze and the rest of Nation forces happens, Darkmore would flee to Asmund's night shadows. He arrives to Asmund City's slum, entering in a decaying house. He travels across multiples rooms, where there were homeless people everywhere you looked. He senses the Essentia leak and traces the source of it. He enters the room stepping on broken glass and passes a youngster with golden hair and dirty scruffy clothes who seemed asleep and had been leaking Essentia too, but he was not who he was looking for. A little further down the aisle there was another kid, covered in rag sheets and trembling. The kid's black hair would cover his eyes, but not his painful expression; the kid was sweating and mumbling, but in contrast Darkmore seemed pleased to have find the boy.
-It was difficult, but finally I found you, the last one. Here we go, time to get you some relief.
Darkmore begins emitting his essentia from his hand, above the little boy's head, similar what he did to the previous girl in Thartan. The boy started convulsing and screaming as Darkmore was continuing to push Essentia. A dark aura appears surrounding the little boy, and violent essentia waves start emitting from him. Darkmore seemed worried and tried his best to not let the kid die, he couldn't fail now: the fate of the world depended on it.
«Huh? What's happening? It seems that this boy has an abnormal essentia center. Even if I try to resolve the same way as the other six, this boy's body can't take the essentia. Was this a bust? »
-Jax? Are you ok? -the golden hair kid rubs his eyes as he heard Jax agony screams, just as he notices Darkmore - Who are you?! What are you doing to my brother?
Darkmore continues to try saving the boy without paying any attention to the other kid, however the blonde one started to gather essentia on his right arm, revealing an angry expression on his golden eyes.
-What are you doing to my little brother? Get away from him! You are not going to harm him, no one will – says the blonde with determination, as his arm starts to get dark blue, and the essentia forms an icy flower – "Ice Lotus".
«Well, well, well. We've got some young talent right here, huh? This world is full of surprises, but I don't have time to deal with this now. »
Darkmore smiles, as he forms a red barrier around him and the sick kid to prevent any interference. The other kid launches his attack, which strikes against the barrier. Although it seemed that it was pointless, the blonde kid would not stop trying to get to his little brother no matter what. As consequence of his stubbornness, his arm was starting to get frostbitten.
-Let go of him! AAAAAAAAAAHHH!
The blonde as he concentrates even more power on his attack resulting in an increase of power, and the frostbitten to extend along his body and neck. The barrier starts to crack.
-You brat, don't you see you're harming yourself?! You can get cripple! Cough, cough – says Darkmore, as he tries to calm down the angry boy.
-I don't care, I will protect Jax! – says the blonde as the frostbitten starts to reach his chin.
-…Leo don't– whispers Jax, as he opens his eyes, revealing a rare violet color.
Suddenly the essentia that was being transmitted by Darkmore suddenly changes color, turning red into dark blue.
«What?! It couldn't be! This boy possesses an essentia crippled center, how can he be doing this? I am sure that I am not wrong about it. Unless…no, it can't be. The world's fate is really exciting. »
-Sir, I will let you do whatever you want with me but stop Leo before he gets his essentia center destroyed. - pleads the boy named Jax.
«This kid…tsh. In this state he's more concerned about his brother than with himself. » -Fine, youth is always a pain in the ass. Just lay down and take deep breaths.
Darkmore gets a serious look on his face and bites his right thumb, starting to bleed from it and slides the blood on his palm.
"Blood Contract: Boost"
Luther extends his right arm in Leo's direction, where his barrier gets reinforced and blows away the boy. Leo as he is pushed, unconsciously releases his essentia power and drops on the floor panting. His Essentia is completely dissipated, and his arms start to darken up from the frostbite.
-Please, leave him alone. He's suffered so much already, if you have to harm someone, harm me I don't care- says Leo crying.
Darkmore sighs as he returns to fully concentrate his essentia to Jax.
-You reckless brat! Don't you see I'm trying to save him? Cough, cough
-It's alright Leo, he's speaking the truth, I feel better. Don't you worry – says Jax trying to smile – Sir, can you heal my brother? Half of his body seems frostbitten from his Essentia overuse. Heal him please.
-Do you think I could do that? That was his own carelessness. I can't treat other's physical injuries; I don't have that power, I'm not a fucking healer.
-But you are healing me. – says Jax.
-Jax, don't you worry about me, this is just a scratch. – says Leo clearly in pain – but please fix him up, old man.
-Old man?! You brats are a pain in the ass, I'll give you that, hehehe- says Darkmore while scratching his head. – Kid lay down and drink this- from his coat, Darkmore takes a small flask with a green, fluorescent fluid- It will ease the pain and open the essentia channels that you clog.
Leo drinks the potion, instantly feels how bad it tastes- bleurgh, this has a really bad taste! Are you sure you are not poisoning me? - the frostbitten starts to wear off, as he complains about it – Jax, look! It's working!
-Thank you, mister. – says Jax more relaxed now, but sweating and convulsing from his own condition.
-Don't worry about that. Do you know your body's condition boy?
-Yeah, unlike my genius brother I can't use Essentia without hurting myself. As I start to gather it, my body collapse, I have a broken essentia center. It's so frustrating I want to help my brother, but I'm so useless.
- It's true, your brother can be considered a genius being able to use his Essentia ability to this extent at such a young age, even though he is so reckless. But do you really think that you're useless? I think you might possess even more potential than that icy brat, it's just that your body can't handle it yet. It's a long shot, but it might be worth it to explore it: you can be someone who can change the world.
-I don't care about that. Right now I'm being a burden for Leo. He could try to enter one of the big guilds or even create his own group. He always talks about travel across the globe and live adventures just like Rengar, the great. We always talk about how we would step into every continent, learn about every culture, and make a safe space for people like us who were thrown away by the Nation. But instead he's taking care of me, a damn defected ragdoll. I'm sick of it, hold him down this much – says a sorrowful Jax while tears run out from his eyes.
Leo puts his forehead against Jax's forehead and grins.
-There's no reason for you to think about that, you are my 'lil bro. You'll never be a burden Jax!
Darkmore's face draws a sadness smile, as he looks to Leo nostalgic.
«He resembles M a lot… I see the same stubborn and rebellious spirit on this kid. I'll do everything in my power to easy up their turbulent journey, as my own journey is ending. No matter the cost »
Darkmore starts generating more essentia and all of a sudden, he stabs Jax on his chest.
-Wha- Jax begin to glow, and light is shot from his eyes – AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!
-JAX!! You bastard, I'll kill you, you damn old fart! No matter what happens to me, I'll kill you! – states Leo with a fierce look while accumulating Essentia on his right hand again.
-Stop Leo. Look.
Jax starts levitating. The red essentia that Darkmore used starts to turn purple and condenses around Jax's body. As the purple essentia forms a thin layer around Jax, a forcefield orb is created. The round sphere starts to crack and absorb every essentia and attract physical items of the room. Darkmore attacks the sphere, destroying the absorbing orb which creates a compressed explosion. Jax falls on the ground, astonished, looking at his hands.
-That power…it felt like it was mine. And I didn't collapse.
Darkmore shakes dust on his clothes, coughing even more blood.
– It didn't "felt" like your power, it was your power. It's just that your body can't handle the stress that essentia does…yet.
-Yet? Does this mean that I can get better?
-Well, it's not going to be easy, but it's possible. You have to fix your essentia center, but that is really complex. I can seal some of your essentia channels, and you could use 10 to 20% of your Essentia, perhaps.
-Really? Then please, fix him up right away. – says Leo with shining eyes full of hope.
-You're really weird kid. You were promising to kill me moments ago and now you trust me enough with your brother's life.
-Yea, yeah, I'm weird. Now fix him up. We can finally start our journey together Jax!
-If it were that simple, I'd do it. – said Darkmore while tapping some Jax's body points – All I can do is trying to ease his pain and cut off his essentia supply drastically. I can't cure you, but you'll be able to use some essentia. But the overuse of it can aggravate your condition even more, so be careful.
-Thank you, sir. That's not even close to the problems I had. I can finally help Leo, instead of burdening and worrying him.
Leo rubs Jax's head, smiling.
-I will always worry about you, lil Jax. But with this we can finally have our adventures, conquering the freedom we were searching for.
Darkmore face suddenly becomes painful, reminiscing some sorrowful memories.
-Kids, I see potential in both of you. I think that following your dreams maybe a dangerous road for you to travel, you can become this world's enemy with that mindset.
-The future belongs to those who believe in their dreams, and that's who we live our life.
-Hmm, a good saying no doubt about it. I hope that you can achieve your goals hehehe. But it's not going to be easy…
- No matter what we have to overcome, we will do it. And together! – says Leo while hugging Jax – And if we get a master like you everything is possible. Join us mister!
Darkmore finishes his procedure to Jax and stands up. Even though he would like to join them, he knew that it wasn't possible to do so. The recent wounds are ripping apart even more, due to the overuse of his ability.
-Sorry kid, no can do. I really can't stay with you, they cannot find Jax. He will lead this world to change without fault, I'm sure of it.
-You don't need to leave. No one cares about us, no one is trying to get Jax. And if they did, we would be more safe with you!
Darkmore smiles and puts a hand on Leo's left shoulder.
-You really resemble M…if I could, I would stay with you. But look at my state, my fate is set on stone.
-Then break it! We'll help you in any way we can!
Darkmore chops on Leo's neck, leaving him unconscious on his arms.
-He would not take a no as an answer, right?
-Yeah, he would not. – says Jax while smiling at his brother – he has a strong will, and I would follow him anywhere.
-This life is full of wonders, it's sad that it's so short. Your brother seems to have what it takes to make it big, but your potential maybe the key to achieve it. You're special, but there are others just like you. My Essentia Bloodline Ability allows me to get a glimpse of the future, and that led me to save 7 children, including you. You will run into some of them along your journey, I'm sure of it. As you have your ideals, they will have theirs as well. Maybe your ideas are aligned, or maybe not. The only thing that I'm certain is that there will be a big new uprising wave that will knock this world out of this crumbling state, courtesy of the new generation. You have what it takes to head this movement.
-I'm not fit to rule or to be followed. Leo is a person who can inspire and be the source of hope to others, like he does it for me. I gladly would offer my life for his dreams; I have no interest in anything in this world.
-You say that now, but your destiny has other ideas for you. I just wish you could live the way you want, but the world will need you. You will suffer, no doubt about it.
-I don't actually understand what you mean, can't you tell me just what will happen?
-You'll know when you get there. when the time comes, you'll understand. Goodbye Jax.
Darkmore get to the exit, ready to leave; but he stops and turns back to Jax. He takes an old notebook from his cloak and gives it to him.
-Take this. I thought what I should do with this, and I end up deciding to give it to you two. This is my log journal: there are all kinds of information about my travels. This includes info about places, items, local customs, people and even maps. Some of it will be coded, but a smart kid like you can figure out. Inside of it there are also some drills and tips that could help you guys improve the Essentia control. I guess you have to get stronger to fulfill your fate, and you will need all the help you can get.
-Sir thank you for everything. I understand that you are in trouble, can we help you in anyway? I'm sure Leo would agree tha-
-Live. No matter what, live. Don't rush your own growth and don't reveal to anyone your power, specially to the Nation, unless you can stand your own ground. Your brother would definitely be drafted to their army with his skills, and if the wrong person sees your power, you will be considered a great threat to the Nation itself. If they know about my involvement even more so. In the log I gave you there are some things that can help you on your journey if you know what to look for.
-You have done so much for me, and we don't even know who you are. Will we ever meet again?
-You can call me Luther. I wish I could say that we would meet again, but even I can't see so far ahead. Good luck kiddo.
As he spoke his last words, Darkmore disappeared as swiftly as he appeared.
*****
Scene changes to Darkmore fleeing through the Asmund night. As he is running, an essentia slash cuts his path. Gibbon appears with his squad members, surrounding a battered Darkmore.
-I guess little Cosmo is all grown up huh? I guess that was it to that lad Haze. My bad, brat couldn't do anything for ya…
-Time to go, Luther. Your life is over. -declares Gibbon as he unleashes another essentia wave from his sword, making a deep cut on his right shoulder.
Darkmore gets on his knees. He's facing the ground.
-Finally, you understood that this was all in vain. There are things in this world that are to remain unchanged, and one of them is the Nation authority.
Darkmore starts laughing. Then he looks at Gibbon.
-You may be right; my life might be over. In my last travels I saw how much this world has to change. Poverty, kills, power abuse, just tragic. In the meanwhile I saved some children, that are considered trash from your world. One day the world's shackles that the Nation holds will be torn apart by them. And even a new troublemaker just like Maddox maybe come into play once again. – declares Darkmore, while thinking about Leo and Maddox similarity- I saw the great wave of change, and there's nothing you can do to contain it!
-You old fool, there's no change to your fate! – declares Gibbon as he is striking down with his sword.
Darkmore was not afraid of his death, the only thing in his mind was: «Now it's up to you…the new generation. Follow Maddox's Void Path»
*****
The demon appears again in the dark, with a wicked smile on his face.
-And that was it. A little appetizer for the story. A prologue if you will. But this is some old story, from ages ago. Some good stuff, am I right? Yeah, it's a pity that the old men died… or didn't he? And the kids, so joyful and talking about changing the world for the better…yeah, they would change the world alright, but was really for the better?