Intro
Neku flies through the air in excitement of Aaron becoming a new master.
Neku: "Crrra, crrra! It's a wonderful day for Neku."
Eris: "Hey, I don't understand! What do you mean Aaron is Neko?!"
Neku rapidly flies into Eris face to provide an unwanted answer.
Neku: "You want answer, Neku want flower, hm."
Aaron: *Grabs Neku. "Neku, answer the question. What did you do to me? What is this power?"
Neku: "I told you, you are Neko. Your spirit has now been bound with that of a Neko spirit, I, so now my powers are your to wield as you see fit. Unfortunately, you're a half angel so you only obtained half my power, for now. Spirits aren't able to form pacts, but at least you inherited my appearance. However, you should take care not to over use your abilities or you may suffer severe side effects."
Eris: "Why would you give him a power like that?"
Neku: "He doesn't have to use them, but it would make Neku happy if master granted her the honor. And in future battles you might be glad to have them. Besides, master's kind, caring, and makes quite the handsome Neko. He will change this world for the better."
Aaron: "Well I thank you for the compliment, but how do I change back?"
Neku: "... Don't know."
Eris: "WHAAAT!"
Neku: "Don't worry, he'll go back to normal soon, Neku think."
Eris: "You think!?"
Neku: "This is a common thing, he'll go back to normal in... maybe a day?"
Eris: "You don't even know?"
Neku: "It'll be fine. Surely he'll be fine."
Eris: ".…"
Aaron: "Relax you two. This really isn't that bad, it might even be a good opportunity to learn how to use this new power. So, I'm your master now."
Neku: "MMhmm."
Aaron: "Then as your master, your first order is to teach me how to master these powers. In the meantime, let's go get this Sin flower."
Eris: "You're seriously still planning on getting that thing?"
Aaron: "Yes. If what Neku says is true, then that flower is quite powerful. It would cause problems for us if the demons got their hands on it."
Eris: "You have a point, that is if she's telling the truth."
Neku: "If we go to this flower you may find a spirit of your own, Eris."
Eris: "What, like you?"
Neku: "You want to know, then go see. He may still be there or he may not. You won't know until you go." *Flies off
Eris: "She's strange. Do you think we can really trust her?"
Aaron: "Yeah, I'm sure?"
Eris: "How can you be so sure?"
Aaron: "I can't really, but I have a good sense of judgement. She doesn't seem like a bad person, however it does feel like she's hiding something."
Eris frowns at Aaron.
Aaron: "Don't worry, I'm sure it's nothing that will be an issue for us later."
Eris: *Sigh "I hope you're right."
Aaron: Eris, Neko, and I began our journey North to Red Water Spring. Neku and I talked a lot on the way. She hasn't talked to anyone since her home was destroyed and she lost her people to the demons. She told me only 100 of her people survived the massacre. Her knowledge of resent events have been quite helpful. As Baren's power grew, so did his control. Not many creatures were able to withstand the harsh changes as Baren's army raided town, decimated the lands, and pillaged fields. Neku's village was one of those villages pillaged. I guess that's why she was so overjoyed about me becoming her master. As time went by, she lost contact with the survivors. She said the most recent contact she had with one of them was 20 years ago. She has no idea if any of her people are still alive, but she hopes that the one we're going to see still is. He's strong and very resourceful. He's a Canis Lupus, a grey wolf spirit. Though he's powerful, he's highly aggressive. Neku said they used to be good friends, but for reasons Neku won't tell me, they stopped talking. By taking the bleeding flower, I guess Canis be forced to confront her. I hope after that they can settle whatever dispute they have, we need more allies. The stronger the better. Even though I'm Neku's master I don't really know what she's thinking, but I can at least feel she misses him immensely. Neku was enjoying the trip greatly, but Eris was having the opposite experience. Neku said that it would only take a day to get to Red Water Spring, but actually it takes three. Now that it's the last day, I finally decided to tell her. Not that it means anything now.
Aaron: "I said I'm sorry, ok. I should've told you the truth. Stop nagging me already."
Eris: "No! Three days, THREE DAYS! We've been traveling for three days and you just now decide to tell me. What's the point now. "Hey Neku, wouldn't it be funny to NOT tell Eris that we'll be walking for three days straight, and that we'd be wasting time doing absolutely nothing? Wouldn't that be hilarious?" We're on a god dang mission..., sorry Heavenly Father, please forgive me my unholy words..., we don't have time for detours! Need I remind you that we are have a job…"
Aaron: "...Regain our followers to increase our battle strength, bury demon hearts for Dante for whatever reason, and find the Ark and deactivate it so our brethren can come to Earth to defeat Baren. Yeah, I remember."
Eris: "Then why in god's name are we out here?! We should be focusing on finding human settlements, not looking for some stupid cave!"
Aaron: "I told you already, we need to get the bleeding flower before the demons, and with any luck we'll find a spirit for you too. Which would be a great help if he would lend us his power."
Eris: "I don't need a stupid spirit. What I need is for you to take our job seriously."
Neku: "Hissssss! Lupus is not stupid. He's a very intelligent yokai. Do not insult him!"
Eris: "Yeah, he's a whole lot smarter than you, miss I almost died."
Neku: "GRRRR, you little…"
Aaron: "Be quiet you to. Look up ahead."
*Whisper
Eris: "Is that a demon camp?"
Aaron: "Yeah, and by the looks of it they've been here for a while. But why are they here, we haven't reached the Springs yet."
Neku: "Uh Master, that's the cave that leads to Red Water Springs."
Neku pointed out into the distance pass the demon camp.
Aaron: "What? You said we wouldn't get here until three days? We still have a full day of traveling left."
Neku: "Teehee, I lied."
Aaron: "… Why, there's no point."
Aaron felt a disappointed gaze from Eris. He looked over, but only saw her looking a yonder.
Eris: "Hmm, pay attention you two. Look over there, at that large tent. There's demons constantly rushing in and out of it, and inside are a bunch of demons laying in beds. Some of them look like they're in real pain."
Aaron: "Must have gotten hurt fighting the wolf spirit. He must be really strong, there's like at least a hundred of demons in this camp. Almost half of them are covered with blankets."
Eris: "You'd think an army this size would have enough manpower to steal one flower without so many casualties. Makes me think, is their mission to obtain the flower or wolf spirit? What do you think, Neku? Neku?"
Neku: *Shivering "Uhhh, he's angry. Very, very, angry!"
Aaron: "Who?"
A hollowing shriek echos. "GGGGRRRRRRAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!"
*Whispers
Eris: "WHAT, THE HECK WAS THAT?! THAT SOUNDED HORRING!"
Aaron: "WAS THAT THE WOLF SPIRIT?! I'VE NEVER HEARD SOMETHING SO MIND CHILLING."
Neku: "He's angry. Angry, angry, angry!"
Aaron: "What is going on in that cave?"
Wolf spirit: "GEEET OUUUUUT! DEMON TRASH! YOU FILTHY VERMINS! ROOOAAAAH!!!"
A large throng of demons come running out of the cave, followed by an explosion of corpses.
Eris: "That answers that question?"
Aaron: "Now I understand why they're having such a hard time getting the flower. They'll need to regroup and make another plan. Let's see if we can move closer so we can hear them."
Neku: "Master, you should be able to hear them with your new powers. Nekos have great hearing abilities."
Aaron: "How do I use that ability?"
Neku: "Just say, "Hoo-la! I am Neku, all powerful and dangerous!" *Stupid pose
Aaron: "... No, I'm doing that."
Eris: "Aaron, just do it."
Aaron: "No! That's stupid. Why do I need to do that?"
Neku: "Sorry Master, but depending on the spirit, there may be certain actions needed before certain abilities can be used."
Aaron": "… Fine. Hoo-la! I am Neku, all powerful and dangerous!" *Stupid pose
*Awkward silence!
Aaron: "… Nothing happened."
Neku and Eris blow up laughing. Rolling around on the ground, they try to resist laughing so loud the demons hear them.
Neku: "I can't believe he did that, and perfectly to."
Eris: "Man that was too funny, I can't stop laughing. Totally makes up for you lying to me earlier."
*Smack! *Smack!
Aaron: "Enough with your stupid jokes. Tell me how to transform, we're losing time."
Neku: "Ow, that was mean. Remember how you felt when I first gave you my powers? You were frozen in spirit form, Neku form, and it took days for my spirit to integrate into yours before you could change back. Remember that power, feel its energy flow through you, and it will transform you in a Neko."
Aaron: "Alright, I just gotta feel it, I can do that." *Inhales "I am Neku."
Aaron's body emitted a dim glow. His hair turned a pale grey as a pair of Neko ears grew on top of his head. He grew a silver grey tail with a white under belly.
Aaron: "Wow, this power, it's incredible. Wish I had more time to indulge in it. Now, let's see what information we can pick up."
***
Demon 1Sgt: "Captain, the yokai is too strong. We've lost almost half our men, and even more are critically wounded. We can't keep this up. Our men grow more weary from each assault, they're restless. We've already taken enough Sins, what reason is there for us to continue this?"
Demon Lt.: "You mind your tongue when speaking to the captain, insulant *husk!"
Demon Cpt.: "At ease Lieutenant. Sergeant, you are aware that our mission is to locate and retrieve as many Sins in this area as we can find, correct? And you know that yokai still has one in its possession. As long as it has control of even one flower our mission will not be complete. Retreating now would only stain our reputation as the rightful and superior race of this world. We demons do not falter in the face of death, for it is us who wield it. Our lord has given us the task to obtain all Sins in this region. But not just that, the yokai to, and we're not leaving until our master gets his wish. Lieutenant, what's the status of the yokai."
Demon Lt.: "Our last assault on the yokai resulted in the complete destruction of half our troops and even more were severely wounded. Lucky for us, we were also able to deal lethal a blow to the yokai. It won't die, but it won't have an easy time fighting back. Also, its mana reserves are almost depleted now that there is only one Sin for it to feed on. Because the yokai sustained such grave injuries, the duration it can use its berserk skill has decreased significantly. If we attack with the full scale of the remaining troops, we should be able to defeat the spirit and retrieve the last Sin. Who knows, our lord may grant you another pet to your collection."
Demon Cpt.: "Excellent. Our lord will be pleased. Not only will the Sins make him and his army more powerful, he'll have another slave for his amusement. Master might even award me the yokai spirit as a testament of my loyalty."
The Demon Captain turned towards his men. He let out a loud roar before speaking.
Demon Cpt.: "Hear me men, the time of deliverance! We have finally weakened the wretched spirit and it's now on the brink of defeat. It's tired and so are we, but we shall not falter now. For we are to superior race that rules this world and all that dwell within it. After we acquire the final Sin we can finally leave this miserable landscape. We will storm the cave, take the last Sin, and capture the yokai! And when we bring back the treasures to our lord he will reward us for our triumph. With the Sins in his possession and the dark energy they hold our lord's power will grow and soon he'll become the king of this realm, and with such a powerful spirit under his control others will know his wrath and bend a knee in his name! Let us retrieve what we sought out for in the name of our lord! Let us fight to make his name echo across the lands, spreading his influence! Let us return home with our heads raised high in respect to our comrades who have sacrificed their lives to this mission! Let us walk with pride in our victory that is soon to come!"
The demon army clamored and cheered to their captain's moving speech. The drew their weapons are roared their battle cries with all their might in respect for the captain and his resolve. The Captain mounted his horse before riding to battle.
Demon Cpt.: "Now is our time to make our lord proud! Now men, CHAAAAAARRRGE!!!"
Dem. Army. "HOOOOOORAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!!!"
***
Aaron: "Oh no!"
Eris: "What's wrong?"
Neku: "They're about to attack again!"
Eris: "Then we have to stop them."
Aaron: "No time for a plan, we have to move now or else we won't get to the springs before they do. Come on! Neku what's wrong, we have to go?"
Neku had a terrified look on her face; paralyzed with fear."
Neku: "I can't. I'm not welcome. Lupus is angry. Master will hate me. Run, we have to run away."
Neku tries to fly away, but Aaron grabs her arm before she has that chance.
Aaron: "Neku, what are you talking about? We don't have time for this. If we don't stop the demon army many lives could be lost. And, need I remind you your friend is in danger? He could die!"
Neku: "N-neku c-can't. Master will learn the truth if he goes into the cave. Master will hate Neku. L-leave, and master stays with Neku. S-stay and Master leaves Neku."
Eris: "Hey, we gotta go, now. We don't have time to waste."
Aaron: "Go on ahead, I'll be right behind you."
Eris: "Then hurry up!"
Eris runs off towards to demon army, leaving Aaron and Neku behind.
Aaron: "Neku, I don't have the slightest clue what you're talking about, but I do know that whatever it is doesn't matter right now. If the demons get their hands of that spirit, not only will another one of your kind be forced into slavery, but he'll be forced to commit countless atrocities. You know what that means."
Neku: "Lupus is strong, he can protect himself. He hates me. He doesn't need me. He will tell Master the truth and Master will leave me!"
Aaron: "Why do you mean? What is this truth? The demons just said that your friend is badly wounded and won't withstand another attack. Leaving right now would ultimately make me upset anyway. But right now, whatever you did in the past doesn't matter right now, because an even bigger problem is about to arise."
Neku: "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, but I can't. It hurts-can't bare the thought of what Master will think of me. Lupus doesn't want to see me. Even if I help him now, you'll both still hate me."
Aaron: "Fine, I'm not going to force you. Clearly I don't understand what has you so frightened nor am I in a position to speak on it. Stay here if you want, but I'm still going down there. I still have a job to do. Just know, if you don't move forward now I'll be upset regardless."
Aaron stands and turns towards the demons off into the distance.
Aaron: "I don't know nor care what you did in the past, right now all that is just being a distraction. But I do know this, if you abandon your friend and let him succumb to the same fate as so many other innocent people, then you'll only validate his anger towards you. And not only will he be upset with you, so will I. You know when me and Eris found you in that abandoned town she asked me how I could be sure we could trust you. My answer to her; I couldn't, but my gut told me I could count on you. I made a bet with Eris? When the time comes and I need your help you'll be there. I'm hoping that I'll win. Aren't you?"
Aaron runs off towards the demons leaving Neku behind as she was still frozen with fear. As the distance between her and Aaron grew, the more and more she felt a sharp pain form in her chest. Aaron finally caught up with Eris, but too much time was wasted.
Eris: "What took you so long, and where's Neku?"
Aaron: "I don't think she's coming. She's having "issues"."
Eris: "Tch, figures. I knew we couldn't rely on her. The demons are too far ahead, we won't make it to the cave before they do."
Aaron: "You're right, we won't."
Aaron grabs Eris by the arm.
Eris: "What are you doooIIIIINNNGGG!?"
Aaron hurls Eris through the air, throwing her towards the cave.
Aaron: "Collapse the entrance and find the wolf spirit, I'll hold off the demons!"
Eris: "Aaron you idiOOOTTTTT!"
Eris flies over the demon army barely sticking the landing in front of the cave entrance.
Dem. Cpt.: "Halt! What is that?"
Eris: "That idiot. How am I supposed to…, what the heck?"
The Eris's arm began emitting a shallow glow. The light began to harden and take shape.
Eris: "This is…"
The shield granted to Eris formed on her arm.
Eris: "Woah! But, how did Aaron…?"
Aaron: "Eris, block the cave, now!"
Dem. Cpt.: "Humans! They're trying to impede our progress, kill them now. Lieutenant!"
The demon Lieutenant charged the cave, shaking the Earth with ever step.
Aaron: "No you don't!" *Phantom Leap.
Aaron warps in front of the Lieutenant, grabbing him by the horns and slowing him down, finally bringing the demon to a halt.
Aaron: "You won't get past me. Eris, hurry up!"
Eris: "Don't rush me, I've never used this thing! Hmmm, what was that spell Angis taught me?"
***
Beol: "Angis."
Angis: "Yes father."
Beol: "It just occurred to me, ever since I deserted our followers our angels haven't been taught how to purify demons. I fear that Aaron and Eris will have trouble dealing with the demons they come to face.
Angis: "Ease your concerns father, there's no need for worry. You're not aware of this, but after you fell ill I took great care in training some of our angels on how to properly fight demons in private. I've made sure Aaron and Eris properly learn the basic of Nirvanian arts."
Beol: "Well prepared as always. But why train them specifically on how to fight demons, and by using Nirvanian arts no less? That's our most sacred art and most respected treasure. Why not teach them one of the other sacred arts?"
Angis: "Because Aaron asked me to. Aaron is childish and naïve, but he's very perceptive and quite intuitive. It was him who first approached me and asked me to start training the angles. I don't know how, but he knew we'd need to know how to fight. And the strange thing is, I was thinking the exact same thing. So, I taught him what he wanted to learn. The Angelic Sword-style: a well balanced and versatile sword art, capable of accurately dispersing large groups of enemies or precisely taking out a singular target. Aaron particularly fancied this style, still I wonder why he chose to train with a sword. And what's even more perplexing is he specifically asked me not to train Eris with a blade. Blunt weapon and magic was fine, but no blades."
Beol: "Strange indeed. Why would he ask to train with a blade but ask to deny Eris the opportunity? I know she has a temper, but not one so bad it would cause worry. Did he ask that you train her with any weapon specifically?"
Angis: "Well, he did ask me to train her, but not with a weapon per say."
Beol: "Then with what?"
Angis: "He wanted me to teach her how to use armor, a shield."
***
Eris: "Ri-ria-ryu... RIUDESU!"
A bright condensed light exploded out of Eris's shield, shattering the walls of the cave causing the entrance to collapse. With the entrance sealed the demon could no longer get in, but neither could Aaron.
Aaron: "Heh, looks like it's just you and me now."
Dem. Lt.: "Hah! You and what army?"
Aaron: "Haha, I am the army!"
Aaron used all his might to lift the demon off its feet. He grunted as he flung the demon back into the horde of demons.
Dem. Cpt.: "Hmm, this human is irregular. Be on guard men, this one's dangerous."
Aaron: "Got that right, and I'm not the only one either. My partner unfortunately won't be joining us right now, they're a little tide up right at the moment. But, my friend should be here soon. And they'll show up right when I need them the most. Now, enough talk. Come at me, I'll take you all on!"
Dem. Cpt.: "We'll see how long you last, human. Men, here's your chance to prove your devotion to our lord. Kill the human!"
The horde of demons roared as the rushed towards Aaron. They swarmed by the hundreds. Aaron had doubts if his strength would be enough to overcome this fight, but where he lacked in strength he made up for it in determination. He took his stance, ready to meet the horde, and defend the cave at all costs.
***
Eris: "Grrr, this was a stupid idea! We should've just left the demons be until we had enough manpower to fight them. They would've stolen the dumb flower and maybe have killed the spirit, but we'd still come out alive and able to fight them once we get stronger. But now, I'm stuck in here with an enraged spirit, Aaron's stuck out there with a horde of vicious demons, and now that Neku ran off, there's no support for either of us. DANG IT! Where did everything go wrong. Well, it's not like she would've been that much help if she stayed. I knew we shouldn't have trusted her, but I just had to listen to Aaron opinion. That naïve fool! Grrrraaah, CURSE IT ALL! As soon as we got into trouble that fur-ball bails on us, and she was the one who suggested we come here! And if that wasn't bad enough, me and Aaron got separated because of her! I told Aaron we couldn't trust her, but he just wouldn't listen, now look what happened! I swear, once I get out of here, if I get out of here, Aaron better be ok, because if he's not, I'm gonna do what Aaron should've done when we found Neku laying in the dirt."
Eris walked into the cave for what felt like hours. It was dark, cold, and damp.
Eris: "Darn it, I need to get out of here. It's so dark in here and it smells awful. Uh, what's that? There's a light up ahead. Man, I hope this means my walking is over."
Eris finally reaches the end of the cave. Moonlight came in through the ceiling, lighting the cave beautifully. The sound of the trickling water, the cool breeze coming in from the open ceiling, and the glamorous shine from the light reflecting off the moss and rocks were breath taking. That is, it would be if it the entire cave wasn't covered and reek with blood.
Eris: "Gag! My god, what in Nirvana happened here? This place, it-it reeks of death."
The corpses of demons were sprayed everywhere. Pools of blood, shredded limbs, and internals were splattered all over the cave walls and floor, and a mist flooded the air.
Voice: "What are you doing here, fallen angel?"
Eris turns towards the voice coming from a dark corner. A shadowy figure forms from inside.
Eris: "You, you're a spirit aren't you? "
Spirit: "Maybe I am, maybe I'm not. Why does it matter to you?"
Eris: "Because unfortunately I'm here to find you."
Spirit: "Unfortunate indeed. Why do you seek me?"
Eris: "First, I'm human. Why assume I'm an angel?"
Spirit: "You smell like an angel, but that doesn't matter. You're not suppose to be here. Leave, now."
Eris: "Sorry, but I can't. I'm sure those ears of yours picked up on the sound of rubble blocking the entrance. I'm sure you can guess I can't move it on my own, being a human. Even so, "
Spirit: "Really? You saw an army of demons and decided to run towards it. That's pretty stupid, don't you think?"
Eris: "Well, I have my own personal reasons to."
Spirit: "Lier!"
Eris: "Huh?"
Spirit: "I've been fighting demons for years. They're ruthless, cunning, fears, and take great pride in their work. No living creature would ever go near one, much less fight one, unless their plan was to die. On another note, there's no way you could've snuck in here without that army noticing. Matter of fact, you shouldn't have known about this place in the first place. This whole cave reeks of death, yet you came anyway."
Eris: "Like I said, I have personal reasons. But they don't matter right now. We have to leave. The demon army is right outside and desperately trying to get in. I managed to block the entrance , but it won't hold for long. If we don't get out of here now we'll both die."
Spirit: "Tch, I've been fighting demons for years. I'll be just fine, you on the other hand will surely die."
Eris: "Haha, you'll be fine. Don't make me laugh."
Spirit: "Hmm?"
Eris: "If you were able to fight we wouldn't be talking right now. Also, I doubt that you would've let me stay in here as long as you did. You probably would've tried to kill me actually."
Spirit: "Sniff, sniff, sniff... grrrrrr!"
Eris: "Also, you wouldn't be hiding in that shadow if your wounds weren't severe."
Spirit: "GGGGRRRRRRR!!!"
Eris: "Those wounds of yours, they're fatal aren't they?"
Spirit: "GGGGGGRRRRRRRAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!!"
Eris: "AAAHHH!!!"
The shadowy figure exploded from the darkness. Its ominous aura flooded the room, staling the air and blackening the light. It loomed over Eris in a repulsive grotesque form.
Spirit: "ROOOAAARRR!!! YOU CURSED ANGEL, WHY DO YOU SMELL LIKE THAT!!!"
Eris: "WHAT?!"
Spirit: "YOUR SENT MAKES MY BLOOD BOIL! TELL ME, WHO SENT YOU?!"
Eris: "I guess diplomacy isn't your forte. Alright, how about bluntness. Tell me, is your name Canis Lupus?"
Spirit: "...WHERE DID YOU LEARN THAT NAME?"
Eris: " From another spirit named Neku. Me and my partner... found her a few days ago. She told us a spirit might reside in these springs, named Canis Lupus. I take it that's you?"
Spirit: "GRRAH, THAT TRAITOROUS MAMONO! HOW DARE IF SHE SPEAK MY NAME! HMM, IF SHE SENT, THEN DOES THAT MEAN SHE'S HERE AS WELL?!"
Eris: "Well, yes but… WOAH!"
Canis attacked Eris. He tried to crush her under his hand, but she evaded.
Spirit: "GRRRRAAAAHHHH, YOU'VE MADE A GRAVE MISTAKE COMING HERE WITH THAT CURSED MAMONO! IF SHE'S HERE WITH YOU, THEN THAT MEANS YOU'RE AFTER MY SITH! I'LL DIE BEFORE I ALLOW THE LIKES OF YOU TO EVEN TOUCH IT! LEAVE!!! BEFORE I LOSE MY PATIENCE AND KILL YOU ALONG WITH THE REST OF YOUR FILTH!"
Eris: "Sorry, but I couldn't even if I wanted to. Trust me, I couldn't care less about the flower, but unfortunately I need it to complete my mission."
Spirit: "THEN, YOU, WILL, PERISH!!! GGGRRRAAAHHH!"
Canis spits a poisonous fog at Eris.
***
Aaron struggles fighting off the demon army. His energy and stamina wanes the longer he fights, and he starts losing his spirit form.
Aaron: "Gasp! Gasp! Gasp! I can't do this, gasp, much longer. I need to, gasp, finish this. GHAA?!"
Three demons surround Aaron and thrust their weapons at him. Aaron was barely able to evade and counter their attack. He manages to snap the neck of one, kicks the second to the ground and steal its weapon, and pierce the last through the heart. He tries to get a brief moment of rest, but gets struck from behind by a demon lieutenant. Aaron manages to block the attack, but gets knocked threw the air and crashes to the ground. He struggles to crawl to his feet, but immediately falls to his knees. He catches himself with one arm, but can't move the other.
Aaron: "Argggggh! That demon broken my arm. But, I can't give up. Not yet, I can't give up. Not yet!"
Minion: "I got you!"
A demon attacks Aaron from behind. He barely manages to dodge and disarm the demon, then knocks it to the ground. He stabs the demon in the neck.
Aaron: "You got what, a sword in your throat? Should've stayed quite. Is that all you got? Come on, what are you all waiting for? I could keep this up all day!"
Minion: "No you won't."
A demon bursts out the ground and grabs Aaron from the back, immobilizing him.
Minion: "I got him! Run him through!"
Aaron: Tcha?!
Several demons swarmed onto Aaron. They all thrusted their weapons, ready to kill Aaron and the demon holding him.
Aaron: "RRRRRAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!"
BOOOOM!!!
Minion: "What?! Where'd he go?"
Aaron and the demon were somehow transported into a strange spatial void right before hit by the attack. The lack of air made it impossible to breath and the almost zero pressure cleaved at their skin. Aaron's Neko form gave him a resistance to the effects, but the unwelcome demon was greatly assailed by the effects.
Minion: "What, gasp, is this place, gasp? It burns! Gasp, can't breath, gasp!"
Voice: "You have entered my domain without my permission. May it be mortal, angel, or demon, all will pay a price for their intrusion. My you suffer till death."
Minion: "Curse, gasp, you. You, gasp, wretched, gasp, spirit."
The demon passes out, losing his grip and freeing Aaron. But, even though Aaron the lack of oxygen and the excruciating pain of the voids lack of gravity almost puts him into a state of shock. On the brink of passing out, Aaron sees a human-like figure approach him.
Voice: "I'm so sorry. I hope you can forgive me."
Aaron begins to fall unconscious. The being places its hands on Aaron's cheeks. A slight distortion formed around them.
Voice: "Are you ready, it's time to go back?"
Aaron passes out as a slight distortion forms around them, and is sent back to the battlefield. He opens his eyes and pulls himself to his hands and knees gasping for air.
Aaron: "GASP! Cough, cough! Uhh, what? I'm alive, but how?"
Voice: "I'm sorry, I should never have left you to fight them all by yourself. Now look at you, you're all hurt because of me."
Aaron looks up and sees the human figure standing in front of him. His vision clears and he sees Neku.
Aaron: "Neku, you came back."
Neku: "I did but, I never should've left. If I had stayed you wouldn't be in such a hurt state."
Aaron: "Neku you..."
Neku: "No, I need to say this while I can. You-you're crazy you know that? No one in this world would ever dare to fight a demon, but you chose to fight a thousand of them. And for what reason, glory, riches, popularity, a person? Why, what reason could you possibly have that would make you even think of doing something that invites death. You could die any number of ways, and all of them are painful. Or you could spend the rest of your life being tortured, which is a fate worse than death. What gives you the courage to fight such terrifying creatures, and how do I get that courage?"
Aaron: "What?"
Neku: "The way you fight, it's like you have no fear of death. How do you fight knowing that just one mistake could cost you your life, or the lives of the people you care about?"
Aaron: "It sounds like you are speaking from experience."
Neku: "Hmm-hmm."
Neku begins to cry softly.
Neku: "It's my fault. I-I..."
Aaron hugs Neku before she can finish speaking.
Aaron: "Neku, whatever you did, whatever this guilt and pain you are feeling is, I just want you to know that we all have done things we regret. And there's no shame in running away if things becomes too much for you. Fear is what keeps us alive and helps us learn. But eventually, we'll have to face our fears, whether we're ready to or not. Fear is more of a strength than anything. The only weakness is choosing to stay weak and run from your fears. Courage isn't something you are simply born with, it takes time and strength to muster the willpower you need to fight. But, even though the greatest warriors show great courage, they to are not fearless. However, they all have something to fight for, something they would give their lives to protect."
Neku: "Something to protect?"
Aaron: "Fighting those demons is the most terrifying thing I'd done in my life, and to be honest I want to go home. They're strong, much stronger than me. And they aura is so overwhelming. I'm surprised they haven't used any sacred arts. If they had I'd be dead already. But, even though I know I could die I still choose to fight, because there's one thing that scares me more than them."
Neku: "What?"
Aaron: "The thought of my father dying. He's very sick and won't last much longer if I idle. If I don't fight he will die, and that thought terrifies me, even more than the thought of fighting Baren. My father means that much to me. He's done so much for us and has struggled for so long without even asking for help or expecting anything in return that now death circles him. All of his children love him dearly and would fight to protect him. And that's why, now that he's unable to care for himself, it's time for us children to take up the mantel and return his kindness in full."
Minion: "Sniff, sniff, sniff, found you! He's over there!"
A demon points out Aaron and Neku's hiding spot and alerts the rest of the minions. They all rush to attack Aaron and Neku.
Aaron: "Crap, looks like they found us. Well Neku, is there something you wish to protect?"
Neku: "Yes, yes there is!"
Aaron: "Then why don't we protect it, together?"
Neku: "Yes, together."
Neku hugged Aaron. A bright light shined from his body and Neku vanished. As the light began to dim, Aaron gained more feline attributes and his clothing became more fur-like.
Aaron: "Great, another technique I need to figure out how to use."
Neku: "Master, this is spirit possession. As long as we're like this you have all my powers and abilities now. But, unfortunately my powers are more defensive than offensive."
Aaron: "And you're in my head, great. Alright, let's do this."
Neku: *Chuckle. "Let's."
***
Canis and Eris were still engaged in a brutal battle. They had exchanged numerous blows and were becoming exhausted. Eris started to struggle evading Canis's attacks and was hurled into the cave wall.
Eris: "GAAAHUUUH! Uh, this isn't going well. Aaron, where are you."
Canis: "YOU'VE TESTED MY PATIENCE FALLEN! THIS IS YOU LAST CHANCE TO LEAVE OR DIE!"
Eris coughs up some blood as she tries to stand.
Eris: "Sorry, but I can't. I'm sure you already know that I caved in the entrance, so I'm stuck here until my partner comes to get me out, not that I'd leave if I was able. I'm invested now, so there's no way I leaving until I beat you, hehe."
Canis: "PFF, THEN DIE! *HORRA HORDA!" *Black pack
Three shadow wolves crawled out of the shadows.
Eris: "Geez, can't catch a break. Aaron hurry up!"
Canis howled and the the wolves charge Eris. They zig zagged, jumping off the walls and diving in and out of the shadows. They launched quick and decisive attacks on Eris in succession. She tries to defend herself against them by dodging, but was overwhelmed by their speed. Eris began to get very frustrated.
Eris: "Gah! Grrrr, enough!"
Eris delivers several quick and precise blows to each of the wolves as that lunge at her. She knocks one of the wolves into a jagged rock and the others to the ground. They quickly scramble to their feet, ready to attack again.
Eris: "One down, two more to go."
Spirit: "Heh, *CANUS HORRA!" *Wolf's terror
Canis and his summoned wolves shriek out howling, it's so loud that Eris can feel the vibrations.
Eris: "GEAAAAAH! What, is this?"
Canis: "KILL HERE, NOW!"
The shadow wolves charge Eris.
Eris: "Tch, gotcha. *Lumos Maxima." *Brightest Light
A bright light shined from Eris's hand, piercing through the wolves causing them to fade away and disappear.
Eris: "I'm glad I took those lessons in defense against darkness from Angis, I might be in real trouble right now if I hadn't. If that was your attempt to terrify me then you really need to do a lot better than that."
Spirit: *"... BERSERK!" *FULL RAGE
Canis ROARS and shakes the walls of the cave. It was so loud that Eris thought he might created a cave in.
Canis: "HOW'S THIS?"
Eris: "... That's, not, great."
Canis: "HEHE, GOOD! *LUPA GRO!" *Wolf Growth
Canis' arms grew to the size of a boulder. He swats and swings at Eris trying to crush her.
Aaron: "Eris, ERIS!"
Eris: "Huh Aaron, is that you? How are you…?"
Aaron: "No time to explain. Has Canis gone berserk yet?"
Eris: "He just did. What do you want, I'm busy right, *NOW?"
*BOOOM!!!
Aaron: "I overheard the demons say Canis can't stay in berserk form for more than a few minutes. He also has several major injuries, main injury on his torso, and broken bones. You should find and attack those spots. He'll probably be guarding them, so keep your eyes open for any strange movements."
Eris: "Oh really?! That's very good to know. I'll let you know when I'm done."
Aaron cuts off communication with Eris. She then faces Canis.
Eris: "Alright Canis, it's been fun playing with you, but it's time to end this little game. I'm getting serious now, so get ready. Cause I'm coming for ya!"
Eris jets at Canis, and he does the same to Eris.
Canis: "YEEEES, SHOW ME YOU'RE RESOLVE, FALLEN ANGEL! HAVE AT THEEEEE!
Eris and Canis get into a deadlock. They shared blow for blow unwilling to be defeated by the other.
***
Aaron: "Gasp!!! That's, gasp…! The last, gasp…! Of them, gasp…!"
Aaron collapsed. His muscles were on fire and his bones felt ached to the core. He used all of his and Neku's energy and broke his spirit form and split from Neku. They lied on the ground in pure agony.
Neku: "Easy Master, you've worked your body too hard. If you strain yourself too much more you'll die."
Dem. Cpt.: "Tsk, this human is a real nuisance."
Dem. Lt.: "Shall I deal with him, Captain?"
Dem. Cpt.: "No, We got what we came for. Let's report back to Lord Baren."
Dem. Lt.: "But Captain, what about the Sin?"
Dem. Cpt.: "It's not important, we've obtained something far more valuable."
The demon captain and lieutenant began to leave.
Aaron: "Hey!"
Aaron tries to stand and confront the demons.
Aaron: "Where, gasp, do you think, gasp, you're going?"
Dem. Cpt.: "Save your breath human, this fight is over. My men are dead and I have what I want. You should be proud, you fought valiantly. Relish this moment and regain your strength. I look forward to witnessing your growth."
Aaron: "Doesn't matter. I still, gasp, can't let you leave."
Aaron collapses back to the ground.
Dem. Cpt.: "Oh don't worry, we'll meet again, very soon. Besides, killing an enemy that's already been weakened wouldn't please me at all. See you later, human."
The demon captain summons a stead and rides of into the distance.
Neku: "No! You won't escape. Spatial…"
Aaron: "No Neku! Let him go. As much as it pains me to say, we can't beat him. Besides, Eris needs our help right now, so let's help her first."
Aaron began crawling towards the cave.
Neku: "I'm sorry Master, if I had aided you from the beginning this wouldn't have happened. I put your life in danger, I'm sorry Master."
Aaron halted for a moment, then changed his crawl towards Neku.
Aaron: "Stop saying that. You came didn't you, geez? It's because of you I'm still alive."
Aaron reached Neku. He stood up and picked Neku up as well, although it was difficult.
Aaron: "You apologize too much. If you really are that sorry then you can pay me back by telling me that secret you've been hiding, but only when you're ready. For now, let's go..., help..., Eris."
Aaron suddenly collapses and falls flat on the ground.
Neku: "Master, are you ok?!"
Aaron: "Uh, no. My whole body hurts, and I can't feel my arms or legs either. And, I'm so tirezzz."
Neku: "Thank you Master. Your kindness knows no limits, and I'm forever grateful. I wish we could stay like this together, forever. Rest, you deserve it."
Neku reverted back to her child-like form from when she first met Aaron and Eris. She then falls asleep beside Aaron.
***
Eris: "Gasp, gasp, gasp, that, gaps, took, gasp, way too much, gasp."
Canis: "Looks like, gasp, you beat me. Wasn't expecting that, gasp. Good job."
Eris: "Well you didn't, gasp, exactly make it, gasp, easy."
Canis: "Neither did you."
Eris and Canis laugh a little. Canis pulled himself to his feet. His legs were shaking and he was bleeding heavily.
Eris: "Hey easy there, Canis. You're hurt pretty bad. You move too much and those wounds will become a lot more than just fatal, they'll become your end.
Canis: "Tch, this is nothing. My father a put me in worse shape. And my name isn't Canis Lupus."
Eris: "Oh, then what is it?"
Canis: "Canis Lupus is just my breed of species. Conan Lupo is my true name."
Eris: "Well, it's nice to meet you Canon Lupo, even though I wish it was under better circumstances."
Conan: "Please, just Conan. I'm not very fond of formalities."
Eris: "Likewise."
Conan: "So Eris, you wanted my flower, didn't you? Kill me and take it, you've earned that much from defeating me. Otherwise, I'll have to ask you to just leave. I don't want anything to do with you if you're allied with that Mamono, nor do I want her getting her filthy paws on my flower. If you don't kill me now I'll just end up coming after you later to take the flower back."
Eris: "We didn't come here to kill you. My partner is the one who wanted the flower. I really couldn't care less about it, and I was being honest when I said I didn't even want to come here ya know."
Conan: "Is that so?"
Eris: "Yes. I was only convinced to coming here because my partner refused to listen to me and leave you alone, and Neku told me I might gain a spirit alley for the fight ahead, so I guess I really only came here for you. And speaking of Neku, why do you hate her so much?"
Conan: "You don't know, figures as much? Why would she tell you was she so desperately tries to bury underneath the world?"
Eris: "What do you mean by that?"
Canon: "Neku is not who she says she is. She's committed sins equal to that of the demons you faced outside. She looks innocent, but that's just a ruse. The truth behind that smile of hers, is she's killed every master she's ever had."
Eris: "What!?"
Conan: "Yes. And your friend, Aaron was it, is next."