"I'll be honest, Zaron ... that sucked." Veena admitted in disappointment, deciding to express her opinion without filter. "I mean, we've all had bad days every now-and-then, but ... never that bad."
"Mm..."
Zaron groaned back in vague response, struggling to comprehend the result of their attempt in the Battle-Sim's Co-op mode. His eyes were unfocused, his pace swayed with each step, and his wings drooped in depression: the Draiken boy was mentally drained.
After their Battle-Sim escapade, the two young Draiken rendezvoused with Lillis, Reina, and Nai at Café Vale briefly before journeying homebound. Their current trek consisted of a dirt path spanning along the left side of a large, freshwater reservoir, its ripples reflecting the evening sun with dazzling beauty. With barely an animal or vessel cruising across the water, the scenery before them was a tranquil as a watercolour painting.
Additionally, the opposite side of their path spanned the edge of their homely local town: Sierra Vale. The quiet town consisted of various serpent-styled buildings, homes, and shops dotted throughout for the everyday necessities of the Draiken locals. It was spacious in size and quiet, even during popular holiday periods. Whilst not the most exciting place for the sociable crowds, Sierra Vale was the ideal escape from the constant noise of the outside world.
Step, step, step, step, step...
It was the usual evening stroll for the two Draiken, trekking through the same path that they followed home every day. It was convenient considering the two lived close to each other, saving any unnecessary detours whenever they visited town or journeyed to their local academy.
Zaron adjusted the torso-strap of his weapon-holster, ensuring the Artoria blade was fastened securely onto his back as he grew accustomed to its weight. As a species dedicated to the art of weapon-based combat, the Draiken had engrained its own culture around the concept of weaponry and its purposes – for protective purposes and various novelties such as sporting events and showmanship.
As anyone would expect, any weapons require extensive licenses and permits through Dragora's official governing bodies. Whilst it was possible for individual Draiken as young as fourteen to claim a weapon licence, many regulations and procedures were set by the governing bodies to ensure trust and security on the wielder. From firsthand experiences, it took both Zaron and Veena almost two years to claim their weapon permits. It was a long and gruelling process, yet the feeling of walking freely with a weapon attached to their bodies and no one batting an eye made the wait more worthwhile. Of course, Zaron's Artoria blade was the weapon that determined the fate of the War of Nations two decades ago, so he expected a few eyes to wonder in his direction curiously.
However, Veena's own weapon – the Kurama blade – was also historically relevant. Passed down through generations of the Alko family, the Kurama blade was considered one of the most famous swords in the history of Xaphire. From beasts of all shapes and sizes, to humanoid enemies with malicious intent, to even the paranormal: the notorious katana endured centuries of bloodshed and hardships to be etched into history as the 'Longest surviving active weapon in Xaphire'. It was impossible for Veena to deny the burden placed on her shoulders for wielding such a historical artefact, knowing that the reputation of her lineage could crumble if she ever lost to destroy the Kurama blade. She decided to neglect the thought and enjoyed her leisurely stroll with Zaron - whilst teasing him of his failings.
"There was one benefit to the entire run, though ... Chrom's reaction during your screw-up was the face of legends." She giggled in amusement, patting the broken Zaron's back playfully. "It was like his soul was sucked out of his body. I honestly felt sorry for him. And then when Lillis, Reina, and Nai found out-!"
"Enough. I get it already."
Zaron interrupted her immediately before she could cause any more damage, feeling the playback commentary was unnecessary. Witnessing Zaron's dour expression, Veena decided to step ahead, switching back to him with a curious gaze. Zaron stared back at her as she walked backwards casually, wondering what was on her mind. Part of him expected an interrogation, another expected further teasing.
"Okay, so ... I can't help but feel that there's something going on with you right now." She admitted lightly, expressing her thoughts whilst keeping the momentum of her backward steps. "The constant over-tiredness; the new training regime; the sudden inheritance of Artoria: It all just ... too much to be a coincidence."
The dazed Zaron met eyes with her, hesitation set upon him as he considered how to respond. He was on the verge of admitting about his visit to Selon Anora and his unexpected meeting the Goddess Enva, feeling she had the right to know. However, he was worried that she would scoff at the tale and tease him for mentioning it. Especially with the plan he had in mind regarding her involvement, he could not afford the headache of trying to convince her. Unfortunately for him, Veena was an unbelievably persistent individual.
"Come on, Zaron, time to spill it." She pursued in her curious interrogation, refusing to back away on the topic until she was satisfied with his answer.
Zaron fell silent as he contemplated his decision, considering the thought that she would find out eventually regardless of his choice. Lifting his half-open, unfocused eyes, Zaron succumbed to the pressure.
"You probably won't believe me, but the last few days have been ... eventful." He first murmured with a small sigh, revealing his small venture into the ruins of Selon Anora. "I was chilling up at Grand Falcon's Peak – as I do – when Denzo decided to drop by and pester me..."
His story continued, recollecting every event to a detailed degree, acting as though the memories were implemented into his brain surgically. Within these details, he first detailed his encounter with the ferocious Venxe, mentioning the casualties of his smashed smartphone and crushed arm in the process.
However, he reworked his story and skipped out how the beast uncharacteristically scurried off, instead commenting:
"I gave it the slip when it was smashing up my phone..."
He hoped Veena would accept the twist in his excuse blindly, knowing it was near-impossible for his words to be fact-checked. During his explanation, Veena nodded on in intrigue, acting as though she was completely invested in the story.
She even commented underneath her breath:
"So that's why you haven't responded to my messages lately."
Zaron followed on by mentioning his deadly encounter with a new species of animal – the Ptarro. As he mentioned the razor-winged rodents, he brushed his fingertips lightly against the gash-mark on his left cheek. Although it had almost healed up entirely, the subtle signs of scarring were unmistakable with its rough texture. And yet, Zaron decided to pay no mind to the forming scar, accepting it as a recent addition to his growing collection of injuries and wounds. Additionally, it served as a fresh reminder of the risks he would face in the future.
Finally, Zaron's story reached the crucial point: detailing the encounter with the Goddess Enva. The moment the name was mentioned, he noticed Veena's raised eyebrow, taken aback by the sudden name-drop. Zaron expected the reaction, silently agreeing with her on how ludicrous it all sounded at this point. And yet, he chose his next words carefully, hoping not to lose her attention in the process. He then pressed on, recollecting the mind-numbing trial he faced to regain his family pendant, along with revealing the goddess' true intentions.
"So, yeah ... I now have to restore the severed bonds between Dragora and Humesa." Zaron summarised with an awkward chuckle, acting as though he was playing off the task's importance purposely. "Everything's fallen into place so conveniently ever since: Dad's sudden reappearance; inheriting the Artoria blade; and his ruthless training regime."
Veena stared at him with a neutral, blank expression, processing all the events described before her.
"Are you screwing with me?" She then responded in an unconvinced tone, crossing her arms as her glare pierced into Zaron.
(Oh, crap...!)
Whilst expected, Veena's response was not the ideal outcome Zaron had desired.
"Trust me, Veena. I'm telling the truth with this one." He assured her, his tone calm and serious as he attempted to convince her. "I thought the same thing when Denzo told me about Selon Anora. But, I swear on my life, I met Enva in person. She set me on these trials and believed I was worthy enough to carry out her request."
Veena swayed her head in uncertainty, "Hmm ... I don't know, Zaron. It's just feels too farfetched to me. I mean, let's recap here: You went toe-to-toe against an actual Venxe; you were chased down by an undiscovered animal with razor-wings; And to top it off, you just so happened to meet the Goddess of Dragora – who decides to conveniently request you to set out on an impossible task."
"Well ... improbable is a more accurate description." Zaron corrected in an awkward murmur. "But, yeah ... that pretty much sums it up."
"Did you get concussion again?" Veena then questioned.
"Wha-? No! Of course not!" Zaron waved off hastily. "I haven't had concussion in over a month."
"Sure..."
Veena was far from convinced, much to Zaron's frustration. He scrambled his thoughts frantically for any other ideas, refusing to give up on his pursuit to convince her. At the same time, Veena returned to walking beside him, enjoying the atmosphere of their walk.
"What if we took a detour and visited Selon Anora?" Zaron then suggested. "I could introduce her to you."
"Not happening."
Without even considering the thought, Veena instantly shut him down.
"Why not?" He asked her.
Veena then glanced at him with a half-eyed stare, "Because I don't want to go down into a forbidden forest and watch you get mauled by a Venxe."
Zaron's expression turned to stone upon hearing her answer, feeling as though he was struck at the core by her brutal words.
"You don't trust me at all, do you...?" He murmured in a depressed tone, forcing a lifeless smile as he felt his soul crumble away.
Veena was silent as she considered the question, glancing ahead with a blank expression.
"No comment."
"Urk-!"
Like a stab in the back, Zaron felt his spirit shatter as his body jolted in abrupt reaction. However, the dejected Draiken boy then shifted to a quieter, murmuring tone as though he was thinking out loud.
"...I really need your help on this one."
Veena expression froze. She turned her head away swiftly, hiding her expressions from Zaron's view. In turn, Zaron stared at her blankly, oblivious to the overwhelming grin she hid from him.
***
After walking a fair distance, the two young Draiken arrived at a single T-Junction crossroad: one track led to a nearby quiet street where Zaron's home resided; whilst the other continued on to an open field that lead to Veena's home. With dusk setting over the horizon, the crossroad would be where the two split and head to their respective homes.
"I've decided!" Veena announced without warning, causing Zaron to leap out of his skin in a startle. "I'm staying at your place tonight."
She leapt to face him with an immediate gleaming grin, acting as though she was full of renewed energy. Zaron was left bewildered, his eyes widened in disbelief as he stumbled on his response.
"I, err ... what?" He blurted out. "...Why???"
Veena shrugged lightly as she responded, "We need to conduct our plans somewhere, right? Why not in the comfort of your own home?"
Zaron stared at her, a grin curling from the corners of his lips as realisation set in his mind.
"So, wait...? Does that mean you're willing to help me?" He asked her cautiously, clarifying that she was not duping him.
"I said your story was farfetched, I never said I wouldn't help out." She answered nonchalantly. "And besides ... someone needs to keep you in check."
Even though she fell into her typical teasing tone, her feline-like smile was as clear as day: Veena was ecstatic to help him out.
Zaron smiled back with immense gratitude, "Thanks, Veena."
In return, Veena returned with a warm, radiant smile before her eyes lit up in realisation.
"Ooh, I just thought! Will your mum be home?" She questioned eagerly, trotting up beside him as the two pressed on to the left path of the T-Junction.
"She's at work, but I'd suspect she'll be back home not long after us." Zaron informed her casually. "Why'd you ask?"
"I just want her input on a few things." Veena then admitted, grinning cunningly as ideas popped in her mind. "...I also want to gloat."
"Why am I not surprised...?" Zaron murmured as he rolled his eyes.
The two continued their conversation as they journeyed down the path. Veena proceeded to suggest numerous plans that could lead to success in their crucial task, her words flying a mile-a-minute as ideas were surfacing continuously only to be nixed a second later out of obvious contradiction. Furthermore, each of her excitable suggestions was more ridiculous and barbaric than their predecessor, implying at one point that the two should storm Humesa's capital in demand to rekindle their bonds with Dragora. Laughing away at her hyperbolic suggestions, Zaron joked that the two should 'politely' request Humesa's cooperation instead, expecting the nation to accept their proposal with open arms. The conversation continued throughout the remainder of their walk, dedicating themselves to their imaginations as the ideas flowed through. Regardless of how ridiculous their numerous suggestions were, both were far too absorbed in the other's company to care.
Finally, Zaron and Veena reached the homestretch of the walk: a quiet singular neighbourhood basking pleasantly under the evening light. The row of houses followed the similar integral designs as to the central area of Sierra Vale: scaly, serpent-styled homes that blended superiority over its territory. Additionally, each home was sheltered with clusters trees towering over them, acting as though they were all reaching to claim the last of the sunlight. Small specs of the auburn sunlight broke through into the neighbourhood, enriching the atmosphere with its golden aura. Overall, the woodland neighbourhood was serene, ideal for homeowners who prioritize peace and tranquillity over all else. As the two proceeded through the tranquil neighbourhood, Veena was preoccupied in figuring out the purpose behind Zaron's peculiar predicament.
"You know ... maybe it's destiny." Veena suggested to him randomly with a snicker.
"No."
"Hmm, so ... fate?"
"No."
"Oh! What about ... prodigy?"
"Veena, you're not helping."
"I've got it!" Veena then gasped enthusiastically, certain that her eureka moment would change Zaron's mind once and for all. "You are ... the Chosen One."
"Would you stop!"
"Ah-hah-hahaha...!"
With Zaron's exaggerative outbursts and Veena's fits of laughter, their voices echoed throughout the neighbourhood like twittering birds. Without hesitation, Zaron clasped a hand over Veena's mouth hastily as he found her non-stop giggling beyond bothersome. Veena let out a muffled squeak in response, caught off-guard by his abrupt action to silence her.
"Mmph-hm-hmm...! Okay-okay! I'll stop! Ahahaha...!" Veena expressed as she pushed his hand away from her mouth, one extra laugh escaping her before finally calming down.
Letting out a small sigh, Zaron placed his hands in his pockets and walked on casually, noticing his house was in eyes-view.
"What does the rest of your family think about this?" Veena decided to ask. "They know you took on Enva's request, right?"
Zaron shook his head.
"As far as I know, they don't have a clue about what happened in Selon Anora. Enva even suggested I avoid informing them on the subject."
"Really? That's weird..." She then commented warily. "I mean, Virion gave you Artoria on the same night you met Enva. Something that significant must be more than a simple coincidence. They must be aware of it to some extent, right?"
"I wouldn't put it passed them." Zaron admitted casually, shrugging his shoulders at the possibility. "But, Enva insisted I not mention it to them. She was even acting hesitant when I asked her."
"Huh..." Veena murmured to herself in response, her mind wondering before suggesting a possibility. "Maybe there's some bad blood between them, or ... maybe it's all a set up between the four of them."
Zaron's default expression froze as the thought crossed his mind. With a threatening aura surrounding him, a murmur escaped her mouth in displeasure.
"If it's the latter ... I'll be having words."
Veena switched away from Zaron momentarily as an abrupt snicker escaped her, caught amused by his exaggerated intimidation.
The two finally reached the Nitro residence, stepping through the small front gate and approached the front door nonchalantly. Zaron reached into his pockets to retrieve his house-key – only to find the door unlocked and slightly ajar. The two young Draiken froze, glancing to one another in wary confusion. Initially, Zaron considered the idea that Denzo or their mother had returned home earlier than expected, leaving the door open obliviously as they entered. However, he felt such a possibility was uncharacteristic, believing they would be more considerate regarding home-security. With both mind and body tense in caution, Zaron opened the door further with a light push.
Creak...!
The door's haunting noise echoed throughout the house's main hall, setting off an uncomfortable aura in the process. The two Draiken hesitated, alarm bells ringing in their heads as they peered inside. The hall of the house was silent – eerily silent. It was as though the place was untouched, not even a scratch on the walls or footprints on the polished wooden flooring.
Despite no proof, Zaron knew that his home was compromised.
He reached behind and gripped the hilt of his Artoria blade gradually, his eyes sharp and muscles prepared for action. Veena followed suit and gripped her Kurama blade, sensing the distinctive tension clouding over them. The two then stood silently at the entrance of the opened door, frozen in place as they searched and listened intently for any signs of movement. Zaron then felt a soft nudge on his arm, causing him to glance over to Veena. He found her staring at him, indicating to him that they should step inside. Zaron nodded back, agreeing with her before proceeding into the house with absolute caution.
He wished he still had his smartphone, knowing he could call up his mother, his father, or even Denzo to confirm their locations. There was also the option to borrow Veena's phone, yet he was afraid that any attempt of emergency contact could alert their potential intruder to attack.
And then, as he took another single step.
Swish!
As if like a lightning bolt, a shadow-like figure leapt into view. The sheer velocity of the figure as it approached the two Draiken caught both Zaron and Veena off-guard completely. In immediate retaliation, Zaron released the Artoria blade from its metallic holster and swung at the light-footed attacker.
Shiing...! CLASH!
"WHOA!"
FWOOSH...!!!
Zaron's blade rebounded from his mysterious opponent's swift weapon unexpectedly, causing him to be thrown off his feet. He flew back a considerable distance, colliding and tumbling across the ground without resistance.
"ZARON?!"
Veena yelled out to him in horror before switching to engage with their mysterious opponent immediately, noticing a steel blade arcing towards her without warning. At the last second, she unsheathed her Kurama blade without a second thought, connecting her blade with the enemy instantaneously.
Swipe! SLASH-SLASH! CLASH!!!
Bursts of sparks flew on impact, both combatants executing a series of successive strikes to the other in a battle for domination. And then, the two stalled with their blades crossing against the other suddenly, allowing Veena to grasp a visual of her opponent in full detail.
Through her immediate observation, she found the mysterious attacker was female, basing the assumption on her evident body proportions, slim figure and her tight-fitting yet flexible shadow-styled attire. The mysterious attacker's facial appearance was concealed entirely behind a jet-black, masking helmet, preventing anyone from identifying her.
From initial view, the helmet's shape was typical for any motorcyclist or racer, complete with a robust faceguard and blacked-out visor. However, upon further inspection, Veena noticed various adjustments and additions reworked into the helmet. The visor of the helmet was shaped like oversized, glaring shades, curving round and connecting at the central crux of the helmet – where the nose would be situated. On each ear-section of the helmet were sleek incurved antennas, used assumingly to assist with amplifying the attacker's senses of her surroundings. Finally, vents were seen underneath the helmet's jawline, releasing silent gasps of air as it allowed breathability and ventilation inside the helmet.
What was also peculiar was the attacker's choice of weaponry: an enlarged, razor-sharp Arm-Blade attached to her right forearm. Its unique design allowed it the advantage to slice through the air without any resilience, a devastating tool for any unsuspecting target. It was also clearly retractable based on the several slim gaps etched along the blade. However, Veena was caught out as she found her opponent lacked wings, realising the mysterious attacker was Human.
"Nngh..."
With her feet planted against the floor, Veena held her tensioned position with no desire of forfeiting to her mysterious opponent. However, she could feel the fatigue from the Battle-Sim still lingering in her body, causing her joints and muscles to scream out as the intense force bore down on her.
Swipe!
Just then, the mysterious attacker swiped back her arm-blade as she changed tactics abruptly, causing Veena to stumble forward and lose her tension.
Swoop!
Veena rushed to recover her stance as she heard the incoming arm-blade. Whilst regaining her footing, the Draiken girl leapt back immediately, evading the arm-blade as it missed her narrowly by a hair. With her initial strike was unsuccessful, the mysterious attacker continued her pursuit aggressively and executed a propelled somersault, leading the swing with her arm-blade. Veena braced with the Kurama blade frantically as she awaited the inevitable impact.
Step-step-step! Whoosh...! CLASH!!!
Before the mysterious assassin could land a fatal strike, a large blade intercepted the incoming attack. Within an instant, Veena noticed Zaron beside her, his fangs bare and eyes as sharp as daggers upon enduring the full extent of the opposing force.
WHAM!
With the assassin caught off-guard successfully, Zaron twisted rapidly and heal-kicked his opponent in the torso. The immense force through his boisterous kick caused the assassin to tumble back into the darkened hall. Zaron watched with a cautious stance beside Veena, the Artoria blade gripped firmly and eyes locked on target. Veena matched him, regaining her posture with the Kurama blade as she prepared for the next clash. Both their breaths were heavy, their hearts racing as adrenaline pumped through their veins. They could feel their fatigue gradually burning through them, the sense of lactic acid building in inconvenient areas. Regardless, the two young Draiken awaited the inevitable counterassault, knowing that rushing in on their mysterious opponent blindly would only leave them vulnerable.
"You took your time." Veena then commented with a tired huff.
"Sorry, I … was a bit disorientated." Zaron responded with a wheezing chuckle, brushing the sweat off his brow.
Veena glanced at him, "Really? You got disorientated over a little push?"
Zaron switched to her, "Well, excuse me, little-miss perfect. It wasn't my intention to be thrown fifty-feet across the street–!"
Just then, his words were halted as they caught a glance of the mysterious attacker's intimidating silhouette re-emerging from the darkness.
"Zaron ... what's our play?" Veena requested in a blunt tone as her sharp eyes focused solely on their mysterious opponent.
"We'll sync up our attacks and attempt to overpower her." Zaron responded in an instant, his glare locked onto their opponent with his weapon close to his side. "The moment you see an opening, don't hesitate to strike her down."
With weapons at the ready, Zaron and Veena tensed up their stance. The two young Draiken anticipated their approach, believing the assassin had no chance to defend herself against two opposing blades with her measly arm-blade. If they were vigilant on their paired assault, they expected an easy victory.
Step ... step...
However, as she stepped forward, the attacker then flicked her left wrist.
Shink!
In that moment, a second arm-blade appeared from her left forearm, matching parallel with her existing right arm-blade.
""TWO?!""
The two Draiken were taken aback, blurting out in surprised before reforming and leaping into action. Hoping to use the limited space to their advantage, they charged into the house with relentless resolve. Veena took the lead of the assault, prioritizing her agility as she rushed down her opponent.
Swoop! Slice-slice...! CLASH!
As ferocious as a rocket, Veena struck blades with the mysterious assassin, forcing her opponent back with a flurry of quick lunges and stabs. At the same time, Zaron swung his Artoria blade at every opportunity between Veena's swings, refusing any time for their opponent to breathe.
BANG! Shing…!
Amongst the clash, Veena's Kurama blade ricocheted against the attacker's right arm-blade, causing sparks to fly and illuminate the room upon contact. As her blade rebounded, Veena noticed the other arm-blade soaring towards her in a lunge motion – aiming directly for the throat. Due to their proximity, she had no time to evade nor parry the arm-blade blade, leaving her helpless to its fatal end. However, Veena then smirked, lowering her posture in the process.
Thwip!
"Hup...! HAH!!!"
CLANG!
As though by unspoken command, Zaron leapt over Veena immediately and intercepted the incoming arm-blade, striking down against the weapon with his Artoria blade and sending the attacker off balance unexpectedly.
Whoosh...!
Continuing his momentum, he kicked off from the wall close beside him forcefully, leaping over his opponent and landing behind her. Upon planting his feet, Zaron twisted and swung his blade into an uppercut, directing the next two-handed strike towards the attacker's blind spot. At the same time, Veena followed up rapidly with her own attack, refusing to waste the opportunity opened before them. Both the Draiken had the same mind-set: they believed it would take a miracle for the mysterious attacker to escape their two-way assault, no matter the additional weapons in her arsenal nor possibilities for escape.
Swoop!
However, miracles were on the wrong side of the conflict.
Swing! Whoosh!
The attacker recovered abruptly and retaliated to the tag-team attack, parrying Veena's blade with a sudden blind kick of her heel. Additionally, she evaded Zaron's blade by curving her body flexibly, acting as though she was repelling the sharp metal soaring passed her.
"Grgh!"
Without anytime to lose, Zaron curved and arched his weapon, his fangs grounded as he attempted to correct his previous attack. On the other hand, Veena took the opportunity to fall back, attempting to reassess the situation whilst also avoiding the large, aggressive Artoria blade – preferring not to be caught up in its devastating path.
SWING!
Swoosh...!
However, the two Draiken were baffled as they witnessed the mysterious attacker leap up into a swift somersault, evading the blade once again with ease.
Grab!
Just then, Zaron felt a pair of hands clasp his shoulders mid-swing, causing him to sway off his stance. The assassin had used the oblivious Zaron as a form of apparatus for her escape, kicking between the walls and ceiling to assist her momentum. Her movement was swift and erratic, leaving both Zaron and Veena no time to react. Just as he felt the hands release their grasp on his shoulders, the alert Zaron attempted to switch his body and intervene in desperate haste.
"GAH-?!"
BANG! Crack…!
He was a second too late. The hand that was once on his shoulder had grasped his neck intensely, pinning him against the wall of the house with unbreakable aggression. With the immense force behind the grapple, Zaron collided the back of his head hard against the wall causing a significant crack to form behind him.
Clank...!
Additionally, he dropped the Artoria blade on accident, rendering him at a severe disadvantage. The grip around his neck was firm enough to close off his airway, causing the Draiken boy to gasp and wheeze of oxygen desperately. His eyes were darting in various directions, searching for any viable way to escape. Witnessing the event unfold, Veena lurched forward with the Kurama blade as she prepared to strike, her heart leaping from her chest in a gasp of panic.
"*Urk…!* W-WAIT! VEENA! NO!" Zaron bellowed back to her in desperate plea, glaring at her to stand down.
Veena halted her movement, her entire body tense as she watched helplessly. She was trembling, her mind racing for ideas as she was terrified for Zaron's safety. Alternatively, Zaron refused to show any emotion as his gaze switched to the arm-blade, glaring down could consciously as it aimed close to his throat – just above where her own hand was placed. He was frozen on the spot, unable to react efficiently no matter how he could escape the predicament. Instead, his eyes focused deep into the abyss of his opponent's helmet visor, attempting to read her mind. To his confusion, the assassin was also frozen in place, as though hesitant to unleash the fatal strike or allowing her victim a second longer to accept his fate.
(What is she waiting for?)
"Zaron..."
Veena murmured to him soundlessly as she continued to watch from the side-line, stricken with terror. Zaron could feel a bead of sweat slide down the side of his brow, his stuttering breath more pronounced as he struggled to hold his composure. As though the cogs in her mind proceeded to click, the assassin drew back her arm-blade gradually, preparing to strike the fatal blow whilst relishing in the moment. Watching the arm-blade target him, only one question formed in Zaron's mind.
(Why...?)
There was no doubt in his mind that he was the assassin's main target, yet he was clueless on the purpose behind the assault. The only possibility he could imagine was that he was caught in a feud between his parents and an old enemy from their days during the war or even during their glory days prior. Regardless of the context, the timing of the assault could not be any more coincidental.
Swoosh!
In that moment, the mysterious attacker lunged her arm forward.
"NO!!!"
Veena shrieked out at the top of her lungs, unable to restrain herself as she witnessed the event. However, Zaron had no plans on dying.
Grab!
Just as the blade was inches from his neck, Zaron snatched the arm hastily with an iron grip. The assassin was caught off-guard, her body jolting on the spot as her arm halted in its tracks unexpectedly. Zaron found his opportunity to strike back, thrusting the arm-blade aside before following up with an immediate uppercut to the attacker's chin – ignoring the deep gash inflicted on his palm from grasping the arm-blade.
Whack!
The mysterious attacker stumbled back, breaking off from her immovable position. Additionally, she lost her grip on Zaron's neck in the process, allowing him the chance to breathe and further retaliate. Gasping out in brief relief, he continued his counterassault promptly with a series of swift, consecutive punches and jabs.
WHAM! Whack-whack-whack! BAM!!!
As the returning punches increased in intensity, the mysterious attacker was forced against the opposing wall in a bewildered stumble She was far too overwhelmed to strike back or deflect the onslaught of blows, unable to find a way to evade the retaliated attacks. Veena was left in shock as she witnessed Zaron pummel the assassin against the wall, searching for an opportunity to include herself in the fight. However, she was hesitant, believing she would only interrupt Zaron's pace and render her a burden to him. And so, her only known option left was to wait, utilising the time to regain her stamina. With his opponent pinned to the wall, Zaron struck with one last powerful punch. His fangs clenched and eyes burning immensely, he stopped at nothing to throw his full weight into the final jab.
Crack! BOOM...!!!
With the velocity and power behind his strike, Zaron sent the mysterious attacker crashing through the wall of the hall and into the living room of the Nitro Residence. The unsustainable momentum then caused the fatigued Zaron to lose his balance unexpectedly, stumbling against the crumbled wall whilst using its remains as leverage to support his clumsy feet.
"Grgh...! *Pant ... pant...!*"
His breath was heavy, streams of sweat glistening down his face, and eyes glazed over completely: Zaron was left as an exhausted wreck.
"Zaron! Are you okay?!" Veena yelled to him as she rushed to his aide, grabbing him by the arm frantically to assist his balance.
"Y-yeah ... I'm fine." Zaron stammered with a wavering nod, feeling his throat cautiously as he hoped he avoided an open laceration. "My head's still on its shoulders, at least."
As Zaron staggered over warily to reclaim his Artoria blade, Veena switched to the wall's open gap. Her eyes were first set on the motionless body laying amongst the tough rubble, expecting for her to recover eventually. She then shifted her gaze to the demolished wall before her, feeling a mixture of horror and awe at the level of devastation.
"Has this wall ... always been so fragile?" She questioned Zaron.
"No." Zaron responded bluntly, rubbing his irritable eyes as he stepped up beside her. "That wall ... was recently refurbished."
In that moment, Veena's bewildered stare switched from the gaping hole in the wall to the fatigued Zaron.
"Dammit! My parents are going to lose the plot when they find out." Zaron then groaned in despair, wishing he could ignore the collateral damage.
"Wha-...? Zaron, I'm sure your parents would be more concerned about the human assassin in their house hell-bent on killing us." Veena assured him hastily, struggling to comprehend his thought-process. "But, more importantly ... y-you just destroyed a concrete wall with a single punch."
Although she had emphasised the achievement, Zaron's mind was too focused on the collateral damage of his home over the unexpected burst of strength. "Today hasn't exactly been my day." He murmured in admittance, a downtrodden sigh escaping him as he dipped his head in despair.
"No, wai-...! Zaron, that's not what I-!"
Veena stumbled on her words continuously as she justified her statement, only to give up entirely.
"Oh, forget it."
As the two Draiken concluded their brief conversation, they shifted focused back on the motionless assassin amongst the rubble. With a strong grip on the hilt of his weapon and a fixated glare, Zaron stepped through the gap in the wall and approached his downed opponent.
Step ... step ... step...
He was silent as he proceeded with each step, breath barely escaping his mouth. As he stepped through the gap, he noticed the extent of the living room's devastation. The room was in turmoil: rubble scattered throughout the floor and furniture; the sofas ripped apart; and – much to Zaron's despair – the TV screen propped up on the wall farthest from him was smashed beyond repair. Feeling the bitter fury swell within him, Zaron towered over his mysterious adversary and lifted his weapon intimidatingly.
Grab!
"Zaron, stop."
Feeling a hand grasp Zaron's arm abruptly, he halted his movement and glanced over his shoulder. Veena stood firm as she held him, her wide eyes consumed with caution and fear.
"What if she's just faking it?" She suggested cautiously, her breaths heavy as she attempted the calm her racing heart. "For all we know, she could be waiting for us to let our guard down."
"..."
Zaron sighed out in frustration, understanding her point yet desiring to end the fight before it could escalate further. Stuck in a conundrum, he considered alternatives.
"Do you have your phone, Veena?" He asked her curiously.
"Yeah." Veena answered with a nod, slipping a hand into her pocket to retrieve her smartphone. "Should I call the authorities?"
Zaron considered the suggestion momentarily, knowing it was the preferred option. And yet, he was unsure if they would arrive on the scene on-time.
"No. Call mum first." Zaron then answered as he sternly switched to her. "She's close by and will reach here faster. Tell her the situation and have her get here as soon as possible. After that, you inform the authorities."
"Right. Got it." Veena nodded in confirmation, swiping through her contacts until she reached the name: 'Terra Nitro'. Touching the 'call' icon, she held the phone up to her ear as she waited for Terra to answer.
Ring-ring ... ring-ring...!
In that moment, Veena noticed an odd movement form the corner of her eye – oblivious to Zaron. Her gaze shifted to the direction if the odd motion and noticed the downed assassin's finger twitch.
Click.
"Hi Veena, what's-?"
"ZARON!!!"
Veena bellowed abruptly, cutting off Terra's voice in the process.
"Wha-!"
WHAM!
In that split-second, Zaron noticed an illuminated blue blur appear in front of his vision. He had no time to react, only able to capture a glance of the mysterious attacker before the world around him blacked out abruptly.
BOOM-BOOM-BOOM! BANG! CRASH!!!
Due to the unexpected monstrous force, Zaron's body hurtled through various walls of the house, leaving nothing unscathed as he crashed and tumbled his way out of the house and onto the back garden. Each impact was more painful than the last, various areas of his body surging in pain as he struggled to recover from the tumbling. After colliding and churning up the grass turf, the Draiken boy slowed came to a halt.
"*GASP…! Wheeze...!!!* URK-!!!"
Lying on his back, Zaron attempted to breathe desperately as he hoped for oxygen to return to his lungs. His entire body was seething in agony: rips and tears were found throughout his attire; cuts and gashes covered in oozing blood; and to top it off, Zaron was certain that he had broken a few ribs.
"Nngh...!!!"
Releasing a pained grunt, he rose to his knees awkwardly, straightening his back out and stretched. He then felt a blast of air flood his lungs, feeling immense relief as his airways opened. He gasped out, feeling every pain in his body escalate tenfold – within his ribs especially. He was dizzy, falling nauseous as he was met with a whirlwind of agony. And yet, regardless of the setback, Zaron forced his entire body to rise.
"Hnngh…! *Huff … huff…!* …GraaaAAAAGHH…!!!"
Demanding his body to comply with his orders, Zaron took to his feet gradually. He was hunched over, hugging his chest with one arm as he exhaled exhausted and agonized pants. He struggled to hold his posture, tempted to perch himself back on the grass to lessen the painful burden. However, his eyes then widened in abrupt horror.
Scrape ... scrape ... scrape...!
Upon directing his sights to the house, Zaron noticed the mysterious attacker emerge through the series of large, devastated gaps in the walls. The visor of her helmet was beyond menacing, emitting a hint of two pupil-like red glows as she approached her target. Her attire was unscathed outside of minor scrapes and dust marks, acting as though the previous beat-down was a mere inconvenience to her. She was an unstoppable force of nature, and she craved for his death.
"Tch-!"
Zaron snarled at the sight of his opponent, readying himself for the next bout. However, as his eyes shifted lower, he noticed a second figure dragged along the ground behind the attacker. It was Veena. Her body was limp and barely conscious, blood seeping from numerous critical wounds.
Her left hand struggled to hold of her Kurama blade, refusing to drop her only chance of defence as though it was her life. She was unresponsive, concentrating on ensuring that every breath she took was not her last.
"…V-Vee…" Zaron murmured underneath his breath, watching her body dragged the floor like a useless, broken doll.
And then, like a spark to a flame, his sorrow twisted to unrelenting fury. He stepped forward, his body shaking and struggling to balance, yet his adrenaline fuelled through his veins in an adamant desire to end his opponent.
"L-let ... let go of her ... you heartless bitch."
With his voice seething through his clenched fangs, the tone of Zaron's threat was weak yet demonic. His opponent froze in her tracks, facing the male Draiken from a safe distance. She was silent, the piercing gaze through her helmet provoking him. Additionally, her stance was firm, acting as though she was challenging his threat whilst refusing to drop her grasp on the barely conscious Veena. Witnessing her blunt resilience, Zaron's body tensed up. He was in the worst position he could ever imagine, feeling every ounce of pain coursing through him. Furthermore, the looming fatigue from his earlier bouts within the Battle-Sim had consumed him fully, feeling his muscles and lungs pleading for him to stop and rest. However, his mind was set only on Veena's safety. No matter the severity of his condition, he ignored it all in priority of his closest friend's survival.
"I'm your target, right?" Zaron pursued the mysterious attacker cautiously, stepping closer with his chest held high. "Then you have no need to involve her. This fight stays between us!"
He then threw his arms open, provoking his opponent to attack him.
"Here I am ... STRIKE ME DOWN!"
Initially, the attacker stood frozen in place, her helmet switching between the Draiken boy opposing her and the motionless Draiken girl in her grasp.
Clump.
And then, she released her grasp of Veena's collar, causing the Draiken girl to drop to the ground lifelessly. Switching back to her primary target, the assassin lowered herself into a prepared battle-stance, one arm-blade aimed towards her vulnerable opponent whilst the other drawn back in anticipation to strike. Zaron stood his ground, showing a calm yet focused stance as he waited for his enemy to swing at him.
Whoosh!
Just like a flash of lightning, the assassin bolted towards Zaron at full sprint. Zaron's eyes widened in immediate response, taken aback by the unexpected velocity.
(Oh crap ... that's fast.)
Before he could even blink, the assassin was close upon him.
Swish!
With a quick glimpse of an incoming arm-blade, the bewildered Zaron shifted his body hastily, ducking underneath the blade seconds before contact. He winced the instant he shifted, feeling the full extent of his damaged ribs. And yet, all he could do was ignore it, focusing all his attention of avoiding death. He then noticed his opponent follow-up with successive combos of jabs and slashes, barely any room nor time for him to evade.
Swipe-swipe-swipe-swipe … SWIING!
The successive attacks were constant and swift, only missing Zaron narrowly as he evaded on every occasion. He used every idea he could muster to assist his evasion – even going so far as to sacrifice his own limbs upon blocking the attacks that he knew would be the least damaging. However, it was a losing battle for the injured Draiken boy. His body continued to ache and sting with every subsequent movement, only increasing in severity overtime. He was desperate for a miracle, praying for an idea that would change the tide of the battle. And then, amongst the constant sweeps and weaves, he noticed a glint of metal within the distance from his right side.
Swoop! Slap!
Without a hint of hesitation, Zaron swiped his closest wing with an instant snap, timing it successfully to the attempted jab from his opponent and throwing her off her pace in the process. He then switched and eyed the object of interest: the Artoria blade – lying flat on the grass far from his position. It was in that moment that Zaron was able to visualise his trusted weapon, only to snap back and retaliate against the assassin as she lashed out at him once more.
His mind was set. As he witnessed the next incoming strike, Zaron dodged with an elongated roll, relying on the full momentum of his body to propel towards his weapon.
Crack!
"Grgh…?!"
He was certain he cracked another rib during the tumble.
(Don't stop now! Don't stop!!!)
Much to his eternal agony, Zaron kicked his feet in purposeful ignorance and reached out for Artoria. He swiped the blade's hilt instantly and swung round to re-engage with the attacker within a single swoop.
Swipe...! CLASH!!!
In that immediate moment, the mysterious attacker appeared above him directly and struck down with a tornado-like spin, colliding both arm-blades with Zaron's reclaimed weapon. The two were stalled in position as sparks flew from their blades, pressing down on their respective weapons with every ounce of their might.
"HA!"
Swoosh! Swing!!!
Driven by his unrelenting fury, Zaron broke through the struggle and executed his counterassault, unleashing his blade into a wide, circular arc. The unexpected retaliation forced his opponent to retreat from the clash, the assassin performing a swift backward somersault to gain distance from the young Draiken.
Dash!
However, Zaron charged ahead in an unrefined stride, refusing any free time for her to regain composure. With a boost of momentum, he swung the Artoria blade towards his target, expecting the assassin to act with a desperate parry.
Swing! Swoop-swoop! SLASH! WHAM! CLASH!!!
Both combatants unleashed a barrage of attacks at the other, the pace of their blades matched as both expected the other to stumble eventually. With the immense velocity of the bout, it was impossible to determine who was overpowering the other. All that was seen through the naked eye was a plethora of sparks, dust, and rushing metal.
Fwoosh! Slash-Slash...! CLASH-CLASH-CLASH-CLASH!!!
The two combatants placed their entire souls in sustaining the fight, ensuring they would stand victorious regardless of their setbacks. No matter his ignorance, Zaron felt his body pass beyond the point of exhaustion, straining his muscles reactively in matching his adversary's swift strikes.
Thwack!
"Guh-!"
In a sudden shift in tactics, Zaron was struck with a sudden hook to the jaw, blood sputtering from the corner of his lip. At first, he was caught blindsided by the abrupt punch, losing his flow in the process. However, just as the assassin followed up with a concluding strike, the young Draiken's eyes felt as though they were burning – reminiscent to his encounter with the Venxe.
"ENOUGH OF THIS!"
SWOOSH!
Though his explosion of unyielding fury, Zaron curved his Artoria blade into a rising strike. His execution was swift and sudden, sparing no thought in the outcome as he was overwhelmed with blinding rage. And yet, he was oblivious that his outburst hit the mark.
*Splatter!*
"MMMMmmmnnngh…!!!"
What followed was a muffled shriek, echoing throughout the area like a wallowing banshee. Although his eyes were blurred significantly, Zaron noticed the recognisable figure of the assassin stumble back with her hands covering the right side of her helmet. The young Draiken then shook his head, hoping to shake off the burning irritation clouding his sights. He watched the distinctively-shaped figure – he assumed the assassin – hunch over into a crouched position, rocking back-and-forth in unbearable agony. He then shifted his sights down to the edge of his blade, noticing the deep red liquid seeping from the sharp metal.
"Heh...!"
Underneath the crippling fatigue, a dark yet twisted chuckle escaped his breath.
"Hnngh…! HHHHMMMMGH…!!!!"
Zaron's grin dropped in an instant, his eyes widened at the sound of the assassin's muffled bellows. With his eyesight restored, he was met with a bloodied red eye glaring back at him, consumed with the desire to butcher the Draiken boy mercilessly.
"Ah..."
A weak gasp escaped his mouth in dreaded realisation.
"…Bad plan."
As she rose to her feet eerily, Zaron noticed the full extent of damage he inflicted on the assassin. The Artoria blade had sliced through the helmet entirely, creating a ravaged opening. Furthermore, a deep laceration had formed from the bottom-right of her jaw to the top-eyelid of her right eye, covered entirely in blood and shards from the helmet's smashed visor. Although the damage was not enough to determine the identity of the assassin, it was enough to show that she was beyond livid.
...Step.
The mysterious assassin placed a menacing step forward, a palm placed over the gash of her helmet whilst the blade on her free arm was set to slice and ravage her opponent.
"...Crap."
With his heart racing and heavy breaths escaping him uncontrollably, Zaron acknowledged that his situation grew dire. He then tensed his body, attempting to lift the Artoria blade that sat in his grasp.
"...Grrgh...!"
And yet, even with an almighty heave, it was to no avail. He had no strength left to spare.
Step-step-step!
As though by instinct, the attacker continued to approach her exhausted opponent, her prey set in her sights. With his desperation rising, Zaron continued his attempts to lift the weapon manically, unable to hide his quickened breath and floods of sweat.
"Dammit...! Why now?!"
Swing-swing-SWOOP!
Close enough to execute him, the assassin lunged her blade forward in a spinning, circular motion. Zaron tensed up as he braced for the inevitable, unable to hold his eyes open as the arm-blade aimed close towards his exposed neck. It was her win.
Whoooosh!
BOOM…!!!
With any hint of warning, an abrupt explosion erupted in front of the unsuspecting Zaron – instantly engulfing the assassin before she could claim his life. The startled Zaron braced himself with his free arm instinctively, blocking the colliding debris from blinding him. After a few seconds, the dust fog dissipated and a familiar voice emerged.
"I've already dealt with a migraine the entire day ... and now here I find this pathetic waste-of-oxygen attempting to assassinate my son."
The terror that once encapsulated Zaron's expression morphed into ecstatic delight. With a grounded restraint on the assassin with one hand and a deadly battle-knife locked around her with the other hand, Terra Nitro was prepared to take the fight into her own hands. She glared down at the restrained assassin judgingly, releasing a low, darkened sigh.
"I hate to say it, but ... there'll be blood on my hands tonight."