The story of a claimant actor searching for peace.

The clicking of Calvin Klein shoes against the marble floor caught her attention. Blue eyes gazing up towards the door as a smirk took form on her face. Her left hand swept the hair behind her ear as her right closed the laptop resting on the desk before her. The doors swung open quickly as a male entered dressed in a full white tuxedo along with a pair of black dress shoes. His hands were covered with white gloves and his hair was swept back a combed thoroughly. He stepped forward steadily, eyes cautiously taking note of every single thing in the room.


“You have some nerve showing your face around here after what you did.” His voice was average yet pleasant of tone and as the words escaped his lips he seemed to tense. “You betrayed us all! When everyone needed you most you walked away and left us to the wolves, but now you think you can just waltz back in here and keep your position above us all?”


The woman stood to her feet with a sigh. She wore a deep red dress with a thick black feathered coat around her shoulders. Multiple diamond rings lined her knuckles as well as a single diamond earing handing from her left revealed ear. On her feet a pair of black Jimmy Choo Josefine 100 stilettoes which caused an echo signifying her approach as she stepped closer to the male.


“There’s no need to fuss about it. You survived after all, did you not? Standing right here before me? That just means you’re worth more than I originally thought.”


“It wasn’t just me who survived. Alphonso, Sue, Jimmy, Garret, they all survived as well and none of them will be accepting you as the owner of this group anymore. Not after the way you abandoned us.”


“Is that supposed to mean something to me?” she questioned the male as she tapped a finger against her rosy cheek. “Remind me again who started this business, who controls this business and who has the capability to end it all in an instant? This was all possible because of me and none of you needed to be a part of it all in order for me to gain what I have now.”


She spoke in a way demanding of respect. The woman did not yell, did not get emotional and did not for a moment make herself out to be weak. Her voice wasn’t harsh, rather it was more pleasant than expected, almost the complete opposite of the words she chose to use. It was as if her voice were a fine brandy and her words a poison slipped within.


“Do you know what this means Caleb? It means that none of you were ever really needed. I could throw you all away at a moments notice and it wouldn’t have changed anything for me. I, madam Beatrice Amphora, am this business. All of this is impossible without me and where I go the business will follow. I could walk out the door this very moment and with me would go all hope of you ever accomplishing anything again so I would suggest you choose your words wisely from now on.” She stepped over to a cabinet on the far side of the room and from it grabbed a small glass as well as a bottle of whiskey. “I don’t know what it is you have planned, but for now I am certain of one thing.”


“And what might that be?” he questioned the woman who smirked yet again as she poured the light amber liquid into her glass and sipped it casually.


“If you could survive the situation I had laid out before you then perhaps you might all be of further use to me. So then, a choice… you can continue to work for me and reap the benefits that will come with it or you can all go about whatever it is you have all decided on and we will see who comes out on top. Your rowdiness against my resources and manpower. What will it be?”


The male clenched his teeth, the anger on his face unhindered and plain for all to see. As she raised her glass and took another sip from her beverage the male reached into his jacket and from it came a handgun. It was rather small and easy to conceal, a suppressor attached to the barrel and now aimed in her direction. The woman’s eyes took note of this adjustment to their situation yet it did not stop her from enjoying her drink.


“If you think I’m just going to fold over and let you keep doing whatever you want then you’re out of your god damned mind Beatrice! Those were friends, family who you allowed to die out there and I won’t just sit idly by and allow you to get away with something like that! Some of those people had children and you think I’m just going to ignore what you’ve done? No, someone has to pay.”


The woman sighed and placed the glass down on the shelf before eyeing the man intently. Her gaze had gone from focused and technical to agitated and disturbed in a matter of moments.


“Enough! Cut! That is enough for the day”, she spoke as the lights grew brighter and the cameramen and crew scurried about to go about their business. A woman approached him to wipe his brow and yet he shooed her away and grabbed the bottle of whiskey from the shelf. “I hired you because I saw potential in your voice, the way you moved und the way you spoke. That display you just gave me was an embarrassment and I will not tolerate it. If you believe that what you gave me right there was a proper example of what a man would act like when relaying the demise of their comrades und the orphaning of their children then you might as well go home und stop wasting everyone’s time.”


“Ma’am, we have enough time for one more shoot”, on of the producers called out to him as he took a large swig from the bottle in hand.


“Forget it! It is clear to me that nothing is going to get done today. Everyone! Take the rest of the night off! We will continue this tomorrow und hopefully by then someone will manage to pull their head out of their ass!”


As he stepped his way towards the exit passed the actor who had managed to fail horribly in his eyes there was a slight glance. His eyes caught theirs for a moment and in that moment spotted something alluring, something useful. He halted right in front of the male and turned to face him, lowering his head ever so slightly to look right into his eyes. He was close, uncomfortably close, and it wasn’t until his nose practically brushed against their own did he finally back away.


“If you can manage to bring that same level of emotion you’re feeling right now onto the set tomorrow then we may accomplish something. If not don’t even bother showing up.”


He stepped into his dressing room and quickly removed the outfit he had been wearing, hanging it on a rack of other just as expensive and exquisite outfits. However while the rest of the outfit was removed the black feathered coat simply unfolded into a pair of pitch black wings. He replaced the stilettoes with a pair of black converse, slipped on a casual black shirt and some black slacks with. After wrapping his watch around his wrist he folded his wings on his back where he would place a thin coat over them in order to keep them concealed. At least now he was ready to leave.


He looked into the large mirror opposite the door, seeing himself in his normal wear. He could certainly see how the world adored him for simply being who he was. Fair skinned, bright blonde hair, blue eyes, rosy cheeks and the freckles which rested beneath his eyes and crossed over his nose only accentuated the natural beauty that came with his very existence. It was simply normal for him as it certainly was with most claimants, apparently he’d have to thank his parents for the looks he received although looking down at his curves and bosom it only served to remind him of just how much he took after his mother.


He exited the room and began making his way toward the exit until a tap on his shoulder caused his head to turn on a swivel and spot one of the new interns that had been hired. A sweet girl by the name of Stacey although he didn’t know why he chose to remember it. Most of the interns would disappear soon after entering any form of confrontation with him and she would certainly be no different.


“What do you need Schatz? I would like to head home as soon as possible if you don’t mind.”


“I’m sorry for the delay ma’am, I just needed to let you know that you’ve been receiving calls all day from someone who’s been calling herself your ‘aunty’. I just thought I’d let you know before you head out.”


Shit! Of course he’d forgotten that tonight was his night out with Evyette. After he lost his temper one day and kicked another claimant through a wall it became clear that he was prone to stressing himself out and it was on that same day the ancients came to make a deal with him. His continued level of freedom within the human realm, but only if he gave Evyette one day to help him release his pent up stress. Tonight they were meant to go out for drinks.


“Fuck, thank you for that dear. Now if you’ll excuse me I am now in a bit of a hurry”, he spoke as he darted out of the building.


Instead of making his way to the car he would instead find his way to a nearby alleyway, flipping out his phone and typing up a quick message before closing it and waiting for the portal which opened before him. The portal itself was just as hot as always and it was because of this that it felt so familiar. A quick step through and he would find himself standing in front of a bar next to Evyette who stood waiting with a smile.


“Took you long enough. I was beginning to think you wouldn’t show.”


“I have a job to do und you know that. Surrounded by incompetence all day I managed to spend an entire day accomplishing nothing more than practicing lines. Lines which should have been done already if these people who are, how do you say, masquerading as actors could manage to do their jobs correctly.”


“You see? That’s exactly why we set these days up for you. You become stressed out far too easily. Now come inside and lets get a drink Gabi. We can talk more with a glass in our hands.”


He nodded and followed behind Evyette who lead him into this establishment they had managed to visit many times. The owner was always an asshole and it made sense considering his family, but how he managed to change the name of his shop so often was disorienting. Last month a sign hung above it which spelled out ‘The Gates Of Hell’ and now it was completely different with the name ‘Blacker Than Blood’. It was odd enough to make him wonder where the names were coming from. Maybe he wrote poems of some sort and these were lines? Or perhaps he was some unhinged lunatic who just couldn’t manage to choose something and stick to it. Either way the names he went by were more than enough to tell he wasn’t like any of the other humans or claimants he knew.


“Well would you look at that, my favorite two ladies in one place.”


“There’s no need for all the flattery Hellfire. We’re just here for a few drinks.” Evyette motioned for Gabi to sit at the bar where the dark skinned male was waiting.


“I would like a negroni, no ice with a splash of lemon und moonshine”, Gabi spoke as he sat down comfortable and rested his head on the counter top. “Please be quick. It would be nice to relax today.”


“Difficult day at work I assume? That’s the life of some big time actor. I’ll whip you two up a couple of ribeye as well, I’m sure you could both use a bite to eat.”


He was always so slick with his word. Casual yet capable and with emotion in every single thing he allowed to slip his tongue. Why he could only be found behind a bar was beyond his understanding and yet Hellfire seemed far too content with the work he did. Mixing drinks, making meals and sometimes what Gabi could only believe was murder behind the scenes. It was difficult to assume which of the three he enjoyed more and yet that didn’t seem to be what mattered.


“Tell me Hellfire. You have the skill und the capabilities, but why have you not gone into the acting industry? You would certainly manage to be more popular than me with your looks, correct?” the question was blunt and yet it only caused a devious smile to take root on the man’s face.


“Well that’s a simple question to answer fraulein. It’s because I enjoy what I do here. I don’t tolerate humans at all and that’s why I certainly wouldn’t work well around them. Don’t get me wrong, they do make for good specimens, but I ain’t gonna waste my time entertaining them when I could be killing them instead. That and I doubt any human would be capable of looking at my body and continuing to  have a fun time.”


Even when explaining himself there was a sense of style that none of these amateur fucks seemed to have. It was so clean and worth listening to that he hadn’t even noticed the drink being placed right before him! It was a beautiful deep brown with a lasting orange which made it look more exotic than it truly was. The beverage was simple and yet it was the way he garnished it with orange peels and lemon zest that called forth its beauty. It was nice to know that at least someone could do a decent job today.


“I rather enjoy the company of humans. When around claimants for too long it is easy to forget that a single misstep could cost you everything. The human realm is frail und weak, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t some form of danger around every corner. That is why I enjoy this acting I have done. Most claimants who look at my work don’t even realize that most of my films depict powerful people who end up in inescapable positions.” He took a steady sip from his glass and smiled ever so slightly at its taste. “No matter how strong you may be no one is truly invincible.”


There was a slight pause after his words and yet that space was soon filled with the chuckles of their current barkeep. There was a serious look in his eyes yet a playful demeanor about his features. He handed Evyette a drink that was unamend, red in color and almost had the look of velvet. There were cherries and camellia leaves adorning the rim of the glass with crystals of salt and sugar. Floating on the surface of the liquid. Perhaps next time it would be best to ask him for something fancier.


“Gabi you’re a bit too young to be worrying about stuff like that. You should be exploring the world, seeing everything that you can, enjoying yours days and lazing around. Relax and loosen up a bit. You’ve still got a lot of time on this planet and you should enjoy your early years by getting out into the fray.” He turned his gaze towards Evyette and winked with a smirk. “She talks like my parents but she’s only lived a fraction of the time. You should take her to more upbeat places.”


“I’ve tried but the boy doesn’t seem to enjoy those types of places. This atmosphere tends to draw him in more”, the ancient responded as they sipped from their glass with a pleased expression.


“That’s because it is easy to blend in when I am in places like this. The last time we went to an establishment that was more excitable und lively I was bombarded with fans and paparazzi. This is far easier to manage compared.”


Hellfire laughed and stepped over to a large fridge on the wall. Within were held multiple cuts of high quality steak as well as many differing cuts of chicken. He grabbed two ribeye and made his way over to the large grill located against the wall behind the bar. He opened a hatch on the bottom and blew a stream of black flames from his mouth which rested on the logs beneath in a relaxed and soft manner. He took a deep breath and for the slightest moment the red in his eyes flared up, the flames rolling and jolting into a strong dance which caused the logs to burst into flames before he placed the raw beef onto the metal rack.


He seasoned it casually yet generously, as he always did. There were always so many flavors it was an experience of its own. The sauces he prepared were just as delectable as the cuts of meat and together they made a symphony of flavors that could always be enjoyed. His cooking reminded him of his father’s cooking, but without the annoyance of having to be near his father.


“Are you heating the grill back up Hellfire?” a voice called out from the crowd of customers within the bar.


“Sorry my man. This is only for a couple of special guests. Maybe next time”, he responded to which the regular plethora of voices once again filled the air. “Now then let’s talk for a bit dear. How does a sweet girl like you end up getting so stressed out? You’ve got a nice home and some servants to take care of it all as well as yourself. Why not just spend more time at home?”


Gabi lifted the glass to his lips and downed the rest of the drink which was prepared, moving the glass over in Hellfire’s direction to which he took the opportunity to fill the glass again. This time it wasn’t anything so special, just a simple moonshine with a dab of raspberry paste which he thoroughly mixed together before sliding the glass back.


“Thank you, und it is not so simple. First of all I am not kind und I will not act as if I am. I would spend time in my home more often but I have come to hate the place. I prefer to be active. Also every time I am home the place gets surrounded by photographers and journalists and I hate having anything to do with them. Nichts als Schweine (Nothing but swine). There are very few people who enjoy my company since I’m seen as rather mean.”


The barkeep laughed as he flipped the steaks, the smoke going up through the vent above it yet the smell spreading throughout the establishment. Next to that he placed a small metal bowl over the flame and filled it with herbs and spice before dumping in what seemed like a red puree of sorts.


“Kiddo you’re not as mean as you think. I know someone who’s most likely a tad bit more angry than you are.”


“Really? Who might this mystery person be?”


“Don’t worry dear. If we come back next week I’ll introduce you to her.”

Gabi’s eyes fluttered open, the bed was soft and warm yet the cool air balanced out the feeling that flushed his system. It was a relaxing feeling and almost enough to keep him in place for a while longer… that is until he realized this wasn’t his own bed.


He rose up quickly and sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose before stretching his arms out to which his wings followed suit. He had apparently taken off his coat and placed it off to the side, and judging by the décor of the room this was certainly Hellfire’s own bed. His living space was simple enough to distinguish from others and especially since it was so clean yet dark. The bed was covered in all manners of silk and cotton, the walls decorated with swirling crimsons and blacks while the floor was carpeted with a heavy charcoal shag. A small desk to the side of the bed and a wardrobe on the far side, but what really gave it away was the case off near an empty space, within the glass resting a serrated sword that looked as if it only knew carnage. It was damaged beyond repair yet seemed as if it refused to fall apart or be seen as weak, blood soaked into the metal and yet not a shred of rust in sight. Residual black flames tickling the edges of the custom weapon.


He rose to his feet and yawned, eyes spotting a folded letter on the desk before picking it up and taking note of the words written on the slip of paper.


Gabi,
Me and the lady had to head out, something urgent came up and it needed to be taken care of. You fell asleep after a dozen drinks so I put you to bed before we took off. No need to do anything, your shoes are by the door, call on Xainayne and he’ll move you where you need to go. The asshole will be waiting, it was part of a deal. Have a good day and try to relax. I decided on a surprise for you so don’t get too hung up on work today little miss.
Jerimyha


Why Hellfire always treated him so well he’ll never know. Maybe it was because of her looks or the way they seemed to get along so well, but it was nice to know tha there was someone he could count on outside of the ancients.


Gabi slipped the shoes back over his feet and folded his wings on his back before placing the coat back over his shoulders. If he’d be capable of using Xainayne as a taxi it would be best to head back home and clean up. At least he could always look forward to a good bath and breakfast. Then again it only served to anger him if the slightest things were in disarray so the morning’s pleasantness was resting on a whim. A sigh escaped his throat before she let the thought cross her mind.


“Xainayne, I’m ready.”


It took a few seconds but the familiar portal leading to the carnival opened up before him and Gabi wasted no time entering and looking about. No one was nearby, save for Xainayne who seemed to be rather pleased with this scenario. Of course he would be.


“How have you been? It has been quite some time since we’ve spoken.”


“Yes it has, und I was hoping to keep it that way. Lass tuns das zu Ende bringen.”
(Let’s get this over with.)


“There’s no need to be so rude, Gabi. No one here is your enemy.” The ancient attempted to protest against his attitude and yet the claimant only grew more agitated by the thought.


“Oh really? Well between you und my father I wouldn’t know what exactly you both are at all! I did not come here for idle banter or a heart to heart, I needed a way back home und you were meant to open that path for me. Wenn das alles ist, möchte ich mich auf den Weg machen. Ich würde lieber sehen, wie die Kerne zu Staub zerfallen und weggeblasen werden, bevor ich meine Zeit damit verschwende, mit Ihnen zu sprechen. jetzt schick mich einfach nach Hause, wenn du willst.”
(If that is all then I would like to be on my way. I would rather see the cores crumble to dust and blow away before I laze about wasting my time speaking with you. now just send me home, if you would.)


With that the two no longer had any words left to exchange. The ancient simply opened up the path for him to which Gabi quickly stepped through and watched as it closed behind him. He was back in his home, standing in his office which was clean as always. The next moments would be essential as he couldn’t even enter the home without being pissed off by his ancient. He grabbed the vase of flowers resting on the end of his desk and tossed it at the nearest wall, fuming as the ceramic shattered and the water within splashed onto the floor. The flowers were beautiful and yet it would go unnoticed by the darkness claimant.


After a few moments the door gently opened behind him to which his head turned to see one of the servants. Emmy. She seemed to be just as concerned as always and it caused the blonde to place his hands on the desk and take a few deep breaths.


“Welcome home ma’am. Are you alright?” the woman asked as she stepped into the room.


“I am fine Emmy, my dear. Just a bit flustered.”


“I’m assuming you had a talk with Xainayne or your father”, another voice chimed in as a tall woman with strait black hair stepped into the room. Her eyes were a deep purple and she almost seemed as if she could stare directly into your heart. “Those two are just about the only people who can manage to stir you up so early in the morning.”


“You know me well Misty. How is my schedule looking for the day?”


“You’re surprisingly clear, although the studio called earlier today and said you would need to come in slightly early. Something about a person you will need to meet.”


“In die Leere und zurück, what could possibly be going wrong now? It is almost as if I am working all of their jobs at once! What good is a producer und director if every little thing throws them for a loop! I wrote the lines, I did all the planning for the sets, now I need to take care of a single person that no one else can deal with? What could have possibly gone wrong?”
(To the void and back)


He walked around his desk and sat in the large, comfortable chair. His eyes closed ever so softly as he began to spin in circles, more deep breaths as Misty cleared her throat.


“Ma’am, I believe this may be important. Something that only you can deal with.”


“Und why would you say that?” he questioned the servant who looked down at a slip of paper.


“I could hear the woman yelling in the background of the call. Something about having her morning ruined and, I quote, ‘being prepared to slit someone motherfucking throat if the person in charge doesn’t show the fuck up’. You may be in for quite a bit of trouble.”


“On Novevu’s name. What?!”


He stopped spinning in the chair and stood to his feet, rushing to the door before turning to face Misty and Emmy once more. They seemed concerned yet clearly relaxed. If they knew anything it was that there weren’t too many problems that their employer could not solve in their own but something told them that this was going to be different. It was almost as if this person were there specifically for Gabi. Perhaps an angry friend of someone who had been fired? No one would truly know until he went to see.


“Tell Freddy to have something ready for me to take to work und have Lizbett prepare the car. I’m going to freshen up und head out as soon as possible. Whatever this nonsense is it will be cleared up even if I have to kill someone.”


It never took Gabi long to clean himself up and makeup was never something he cared to use. His blonde hair was neatly brushing against his shoulders, a new outfit of all black marking his mood for the day. Boots, slacks, a tucked in t-shirt and a long coat to hide his wings away as well as provide some semblance of warmth from the cold weather.


The drive was as comfortable as always, Lizbett being his driver for so long she had become quite accustomed to giving him peaceful paths to work as to not stir his temper before things became busy. Normally they would have spoken and caught up on the way and yet this time he was more than busy eating his breakfast and typing up texts and emails to send out in preparation for his arrival. He had assigned quite a bit of his work to Misty and yet Lizbett could never understand how he was still kept so busy.


Then the phone rang.


“Hurensohn, who could this be now?” he spoke as he laid down the slice of toast coated with a sweet smelling red paste. His father had called it red bean paste when he sent it to him, at least he was good for making food… sometimes.
(Son of a bitch)


Looking down at the cellular device a look of worry took form on his face. It was Evyette. That one never chose to call her unless it was time for their nights out, but all that meant was that this was more urgent than normal. He quicky lifted the phone to his ear and answered it.


“Yes? What has happened?”


“Are you in the car? Shit. So you’re on the way to work already. Well Hellfire just told me what he did and I was hoping to catch you before now.”


“What? What exactly is going on here? Do you two know about this situation at my job?”


“Well I didn’t until Hellfire told me a few minutes ago. Don’t worry, it isn’t as bad as it seems. He just requested that someone visit you at your workplace and, while I was hoping to have you two avoid each other, I suppose there isn’t much to be done now. Just try to get along, please.”


“I will not make any promises. We will see once I arrive. I will speak with you later, I’m going to be heading inside now.”


With that the phone hung up and a few more deep breaths escaped his lips. Lizbett couldn’t help but turn around in her seat as she parked and look back at her employer. Of course she would be worried, all of her housekeepers and helpers worried about him This however was different from the normal worry she often had.


“Should I, um, take us back? You don’t have to go in. It, um, sounds like things might be bad and I wouldn’t want you to get hurt ma’am. Or too stressed out.”


“It will be fine dear, just head back home and I will call you when it is time for me to leave this place.”


With those words Gabi stepped out of the vehicle and began her walk to the building, Lizbett watching as he raised his toast to his lips only to have it fall to the ground when it slipped from within its wrapping. This day was not going to be good for him and it was evident from the yelling which could be heard through the car.


“Verdammter Fick! Kann ich keinen einzigen verdammten Tag bekommen, an dem nichts schief geht? Du blöder Scheißkerl! Verdammter Motherfucker, gottverdammter Bullshit, cocksucking fucks!” he turned to the car parked at his side and kicked it, luckily without all of his strength and yet that was still enough to have it almost flip on its side. “Ich gehe in dieses Gebäude und häute jeden, der es geschafft hat, diesen Morgen noch schlimmer zu machen, als er ohnehin schon ist!”
(Fucking fuck! Can I not get a single fucking day where nothing goes wrong? You stupid fucking son of a bitch! Fucking motherfucker, god damned bullshitting cocksucking fucks!) (I'm going to walk into this building and skin whoever managed to make this morning worse than it already is alive!)


His steps sped up, the usual agitated look plastered on his face as his hands slammed against the doors which almost swung off the hinges. The sound of the metal door slamming against the walls holding it in place caused a silence to fall over and type of conversation or confrontation that was managing to go on. Just looking at the room in disarray was enough to cause sparks to fire off in his head and the anger which followed was more than enough to tear down whatever sense of subtlety and holding back that might have even been planned before entering the building.


“Incompetence! All around me! Wenn ein Film von einer einzigen verdammten Person gemacht werden könnte, dann würde ich das lieber tun, anstatt mich mit diesem Quatsch zu beschäftigen! Sore wa doko e itte mo hidoi kusosākasu no yōna mono de, shingurumazā no kuso no hi o yasumu koto ni shita to shite mo,-en ni tsutsuma reta tatemono ni modotte mo odorokanaideshou! Wenn dieses Gebäude nicht in den nächsten drei Minuten geräumt wird, schwöre ich bei elysian, der Leere, bei der verdammten Zitadelle selbst watashi wa korera no kabe no naka ni mada sonzai shite iru subete no jinsei o owaraserudeshou! Watashi wa jibun jishin o hakkiri sa semasu ka, soretomo rei ga hitsuyōdesu ka?"
(If a movie could be made by a single damn person then I would rather do that instead of deal with this bullshit! It's like a goddamn fucking circus everywhere I go and I wouldn't be surprised if I came back to the building engulfed in flames if I ever decided to take a single mother fucking day off! If this building is not cleared out in the next three minutes I swear to elysian, the void, to the fucking citadel itself that I will end every single life still existing within these walls! Do I make myself fucking clear or will you need an example?)


The threat might have managed to fall on deaf ears if it wasn’t mandatory for all people working alongside the darkness claimant to learn German and Japanese just for moments like this. It was also because of this that everyone swiftly exited the premises. Well, everyone but one person.


“Und wait outside until I come out to get you!” she shouted as the doors shut carefully behind the crowd of staff.


“And people say I have a terrible temper. But hey, at least you gave them a warning. Your accent is cute though. Might be why they all put up with you.”


The voice was almost enough to run her ragged. Not that it was unpleasant, but rather Gabi was expecting to be left alone. No doubt this was the troublemaker who had managed to make this morning more of a hell than he needed it to be, her voice wasn’t familiar in the slightest and just thinking about this confrontation that even Evyette was worried about made him frown. He turned around quickly and his blue eyes locked with her deep browns. This girl… was adorable, a posture filled with attitude that screamed how much she demanded to be taken seriously.


“I don’t know who you are, but we are not holding any auditions. What do you—”


“You… might be the cutest person I’ve ever seen! Well, second cutest.”


“W-what?!”


The shorter woman had managed to close the distance between them so quickly it was evident that he was now face to face with another claimant. She smelled of Jayhe’s distinct claimant scent and yet there was something about her that seemed different. For an order claimant her posture was lacking, almost too casual, and there was a sense of the unknown when standing in her presence.


“You remind me of someone. Blonde hair, cute blue eyes, even your accent is rather familiar. You should smile though! You’d almost look like a sweet little doll if you did.”


This woman was far too excited and yet it was intoxicating. How someone so aggressive could manage to be so… alluring? It was almost just like Hellfire in a way and yet she was clearly only acting this way with her. What she had heard which led her here was nothing like what this conversation was now. Was she like Hellfire? Did she simply dislike humans or what she attempting to play some trick on him?


“Who might you be? I do not believe we are acquainted.”


“Oh yeah, fuck. Hellfire woke me up at like five this morning and told me to come here, said that there was someone I’d probably like to meet, but I wasn’t expecting the guy to be right. My name is Eva by the way.”


“Eva? Evagelyne? Aikekunai of the house of order?” what in the hell was she doing here and why did Hellfire know her? It was no wonder Evyette was concerned, from what he had heard from his father this particular claimant was a fan of violence and confrontation! Then again there was one silver lining here. “I see. My father has told me quite a bit about you. My name is Gabi, nothing too special, just a normal claimant trying to make a simple living.”


“Now I know who you remind me of! Fuck, I’m surprised I didn’t notice it sooner! You’re that actor who’s been in those movies! I loved that one you played as a fallen angel in!”


“You mean Fated Fateless?”


“Yeah! That one! The ending where you’ve gained all the power in the world only to be struck down by your own allies was amazing. What made you think of something like that?”


This was an interesting turn of events. He had not been expecting Eva of all people to be a fan of his movies. How long had it been since someone actually just spoke to him like this? Not picking apart every little thing, not misunderstanding all of the things which took place, not believing that things could have ended better? It wasn’t about all of that it was about realizing that some things were just unavoidable and some people simply were never worth trusting. That was how he viewed the life of a claimant to be.


“I just do not like how everyone believes that life is always leading to some happy ending. It has nothing to do with being an adult und nothing to do with growing up, it is simple fact. Sometimes things do not go the way you plan und whether that leads to an inevitable demise or not is a coin toss away. I understand that things do go well often und that is good, but that does not mean that nothing bad will ever happen and we should be prepared for that.”


“The way you think is much like my aunt. She believes that it is more realistic to look at things expecting them to go wrong with preparation rather than to expect things to always go right and end up somewhere you could have avoided… she told me that my mother would look at things the same way.”


“Your mother sounds like a wise person. I would love to meet her if the opportunity ever arises.”


This had caused Eva to smile, something the girl hadn’t done since his arrival and it almost went unnoticed until that very moment. She had managed to call him cute and yet she seemed to be far cuter than he was in terms of attitude. Then the door opened ever so slightly and one of the building staff peeked their head inside. This caused both of them to turn their attention to the door just as the man began to speak.


“Excuse me, miss Gabi. I have something important to speak with you about if you do not mind.”


“Yes, by the cores, what do you need from me now?”


“We all spoke last night and we were hoping to let you know when you arrived, but we’ve all noticed just how stressed you’ve been with work. Everyone has agreed that you need to take a vacation. You need to relax. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen you take a single day off and I’ve been working here for four years. You need this time to yourself ma’am and so we made time for you to have a month to yourself. We will work on lines and set pieces in the meantime, but for now you should clear your head and enjoy yourself.”


This was… unexpected. Not at all what he had been thinking to be met with and yet it wasn’t a terrible thought. Then again just how much could they throw into disarray while he was away? This was the type of thing that caused him to question what would happen, but with his eyes straying to his side and seeing Eva standing their with a content smile as if agreeing with this producer…


“Fuck it, fine. However if anything goes wrong you will contact me immediately. Do you understand?”


“Yes ma’am.”


“Good. Everyone can take the rest of the day off and… let them know I apologize for my words earlier. That was unbecoming of me.”


“Yes ma’am, we all understand. Thank you.”


“Thank your fucking self! Now get the hell out of here before I slam your head through that damn door you waste of space!” Eva spoke without a single shred of care.


This was the Eva he had heard of. In that single moment it had all became clear to Gabi that it was by chance alone that he had managed to escape her ire. She was still ever the same as he had been told and just as he was told she would certainly never change, but it was apparently true that she chose the people she treated like actual people at a glance. Watching as the man disappeared from the doorway was more than enough to cause him to smile slightly before bursting into laughter.


“By the void, that was completely uncalled for. I am glad you said it though. It annoys me to no end when they talk more than they have to.”


“Well it pisses me off to see them alive so I can’t tolerate that nonsense he was spouting. You could take a day off whenever you wanted to, they didn’t need to say shit.” She spoke as she walked towards the door. “So then, let’s go to my place and talk. The day is still early and I haven’t had my morning coffee yet. Let’s talk about something other than work and get to know each other for a bit. I don’t know what it is but something is still telling me I’ve met you before.”


“Fine”, he spoke with a smile. “If I am going to be off for a month then this should be a fun start to this vacation. We can go out to eat later, my treat.”

The coffee smelled divine. It wasn’t often that Gabi had the opportunity to drink coffee, something about his health, but this was rather pleasant. They had arrived at the girl’s home rather quickly with Evyette’s help. Gabi had believed it would have been easier to ask Jayhe and yet she seemed to be struggling to even keep control over their Aikekunai. It was difficult to pin down, but either Eva specifically didn’t care for her or she just wanted to spite the ancient. Either way it seemed like they got along well enough in their own way to understand each other. Regardless this was good, her home was just as comfortable as he expected.


“You have a wonderful sense of style. Your home lets off a warm feeling I can get used to.”


“That’s because I enjoy my time alone, so if I can enjoy it I expect everyone to enjoy it. Well, not that everyone gets the chance to come in here. Save for Gahbreal who just wanders wherever he fucking likes. The prick.”


A shiver ran up the darkness claimant’s spine as they pressed their teeth together. If anything he had been hoping to not hear that name. Everyone always seemed to act as if he were some sort of plague on the community of claimants, an enigma who stands outside of the norm with a job that goes beyond what most people are capable if accomplishing.


“You know Gahbreal? I have heard that he rarely ever gets the opportunity to speak with others or get along with anyone else.”


“I suppose you’d be correct if I didn’t know him well enough. He was assigned to keep an eye on me when I was in a… less tha optimal state of mind… he acts far more fatherly than anyone who doesn’t know him can give him credit for, and yet the way he carries himself around pisses me off. I understand his position but I don’t understand his attitude.”


That asshole. It seemed in that very moment as if he were capable of treating others with respect and proper understanding. That only meant there was no excuse for when he didn’t do the same for others.


“I have never gotten along with him. He always acts as if something is far more important than what is normally going on behind the scenes und yet that is exactly what he needs to pay attention to. He is, how would you say? A piece of dick?”


Eva laughed slightly, placing a fresh mug of coffee before her guest before sitting down in her personal seat with a cup of her own.


“Well I’d say a piece of shit, but I like what you’ve come up with there. Why do you hate him so much however? You talk as if you know him better than me and yet I’ve ever only seen him treat me, Stasia and Verin like daughters of his own. He attempts to do so with DeVian and yet we all know that won’t work too well.”


Of course that would be expected of him. It was more than popular knowledge that he was known for being highly protective of them. Before now he had believed it was simply due to their roles as Aikekunai, but now that wasn’t so clear. He was capable of treating younger claimants as children? Look after them and watch over them? Perhaps it was true that all wolves have their cubs and yet was he not meant to be feared?


“That is exactly why I hate him so much. His focus is always so far off from what it needs to be. It is disgraceful. Er weiß nicht, wie man sich richtig um jemanden kümmert und das merkt man, wenn man genug Zeit mit ihm verbringt...”
(He doesn't know how to care for anyone properly and it shows when you spend enough time with him...)


Eva stood quietly for a moment, thinking to herself before looking directly into the woman’s eyes. Gabi seemed far more agitated than she had expected from the conversation. Most people certainly knew who Gahbreal was and yet she spoke as if she knew him on a more personal level and yet still didn’t like him. What was the cause for this? He certainly had the scent of one of Xainayne’s claimants. Could it be that they had been acquainted in the past? No one ever really spoke on Gahbreal’s relationship with the other claimants of his house.


She poured each of them a cup of coffee, wondering how she could learn more about this person she had come to respect for the topic of his work. An actor who was more so only really known for his works sitting before her with a relaxed yet stern look on his face. He seemed almost familiar in a way and yet it was difficult to understand why this was the case.


“Tell me about yourself, Gabi.” Maybe the simple method would be best. “I think it would be interesting to learn more about you.”


“I do not know about that. I do not very much enjoy speaking about my life, but I suppose I could tell you something…”


He pondered for a moment, watching as Eva placed one of the cups before him. He reached for the warm liquid yet hesitated. A sigh slipped his lips and he leaned back onto the couch. This wasn’t difficult at all, right? It shouldn’t be. Why not just speak casually. There were certain things that couldn’t be said and as such it was paramount to hold those secrets close. Speaking around it however would be fine.


“I was born into the house of Dimea. I am not really someone important or of note, I suppose, und Xainayne does not really give me work to do. In all actuality my life as a claimant is filled with nothing but free time, so I spend all of that time making movies und doing acting jobs. My father is always busy so I rarely ever got the chance to see or speak with him. I was raised mainly by my mother and she chose to raise me in her home country from before she became a claimant. She taught me how to do everything including fighting and training my body. My father on the other hand would spend the little time he had with me watching over my training and overseeing my technique.”


He paused for a moment, grabbing the cup and lifting it to his lips. A deep breath and the aroma filled his senses. It was always a calming scent yet one he did not often get the opportunity to experience. Perhaps forcing the studio to have coffee around would be a good idea.


“My father never really seemed to understand anything outside of combat. He certainly does not understand me. My mother says he must stay focused und in top condition, doing what he can like all other claimants, making things better for us all just as everyone else does. I think it is bullshit. To make things worse, everyone expects me to grow up and follow in his footsteps. Live to do what is best for the rest of these claimants and yet I would rather do my own work. Anything to be the least like him I can possibly be.”


“I can see where you’re coming from, but you shouldn’t take your family for granted”, Eva spoke. She sounded agitated and yet the look on her face seemed calmer than expected. “Some people are just worthless overall. Then again, when it comes to family, you can still be happy they’re alive at the end of the day. Once you lose that it never truly comes back.”


For a moment his eyes refused to stray from hers. This seemed to be the difference between them, Eva’s clear sight forward and her lack of needing to search for answers. For her it seemed as if everything were already in place and alignment. There was no space for second guessing her choices and if she aimed to speak on something it would surely come directly from her own personal feelings. She was not one to hold back and as such she was not one to beat around the bush, prepared to wholeheartedly tell you exactly what she believed to be true and in this case there was no opposing her.


At the end of the day perhaps it would be best to just accept things as they are and simply be pleased with survival. The lives of claimants were not simple, and depending on your role or your family’s role you could be subject to consistent time away from one another. It is commonplace for claimants to simply die or never be seen again and there were far too many stories to tell of people simply dying and being gone for good. Then again it wasn’t so simple for him.


“The problem here would be that I have not gained anything from that man aside from an inconvenience. All he has ever shown me is how to fight. He never showed up for any important day, not once applying himself into my life in a manner that did not involve combat. Disappearing for weeks, months, years only to return und have me exercise, train, spar. He would say I need to be strong because the world is a dangerous place but I did not need him to tell me what I already knew! I needed him to be there! I spent the majority of my life living amongst humans who would make a mockery of me when I was a child, adults who would treat me like garbage, people I would have once seen as equals fighting me und hitting me only for my mother to insist I never fight back! She would say it was not my place to fight und that I must first learn self control yet I should have been able to rely on them to help me as a child!”


He placed the cup down on the table, but upon doing so he intertwined his fingers and they began to shake ever so slightly. The display of anger in his eyes was disturbing and ruthless. So much so that the water which built up just beneath the blue orbs was evident enough to show he was no longer in a good mood. Well, if he ever was to begin with.


“Everything was just some lesson, some trial that I had to overcome. One of my abilities does not go away und I just have to live with it. Everyone treats me like dirt und I just have to turn the other cheek. My parents act as if I am meant to grow into some example of an honorable warrior und yet I do not even like to fight. My mother attempted to do her best to raise me alone und keep me from turning into some rogue claimant, but that only served to fuck my childhood. My father might as well have not ever existed und all he ever did was make me learn to fight and gain more strength. ‘The world will not be forgiving to weakness for claimants. You must be prepared to defend yourself at all costs’ whilst my mother would say ‘you must be attentive und watchful. Remember who you are und keep yourself from going too far’. It was all rubbish. Now I come to find that the opposite of what they told me makes everything easier.”


Eva stood to her feet and stretched before waltzing over to Gabi and sitting by his side. She placed her hands over his own which caused his eyes to flick over to her position. What was she attempting to do? Perhaps maybe he had spoken for too long or had said too much. Then again this was not a situation he had faced before. Speaking with others about these things was not something he had ever done.


“My mother is a very powerful person. More powerful than I believe anyone else in this existing world will ever be. When I think of her I think of what it would be like to have the strength to destroy all things in a magnificent flurry of unimaginable destruction and chaos. Yet even with those thoughts my aunt told me that she was one of the kindest people she’s ever known. My mother was simultaneously feared for her strength and at the same time adored by everyone who had been given no reason to oppose her. I believe your mother desired for you to have one of those things while your father desired for you to have the other. My mother believes in peace at all costs, above all things. I believe that both of your parents simply desire for you to be at peace even if that means you have to fight for it. In the world of claimants we can easily die when faced with an overwhelming force, something we can’t handle. I’m certain that for a parent the thought is enough to drive them to extremes.”


No one had ever told him Eva was so well spoken and perceptive. One moment it was like speaking to a normal person, albeit a bit overbearing, and the next it was like talking to someone who viewed themself as being a status above you. This change was ominous and yet alluring in a way. It was difficult to imagine why others view her so poorly if this was how she spoke to others. Then again it did not seem as if she’d ever speak to many other people like this. It was exactly what he needed.


“Perhaps you are right... maybe I should take another look at things between me und my parents.”


“What do you mean ‘perhaps’? I’m always right so don’t forget it. You may be one of the cutest girls I’ve ever seen but that doesn’t mean anything to me. Remember, I’m always fucking correct in all my ways.”


There it was. The side that everyone talked about again. It was so out of place after what she had said and yet that was exactly why it caused the darkness clamant to smile the way he did. Eva could only watch as Gabi’s cheeks lit up red just beneath his freckles, his smile opening up into a chuckle and quickly upgrading into a laugh with a voice just higher than her own. His happiness in that moment was just genuine enough to make this entire situation worthwhile. Eva could almost swear the smile was nostalgic in a way.


He calmed himself, placing a hand over his chest and taking a few deep breaths. He turned his eyes to meet Eva’s gaze and held onto his smile.


“Ich schätze deine Wrote, but it will take some time to mend anything between me und my father. I cannot blame my mother for being in her situation und trying to do what she could, but my father will garner no such mercy from me. He could have done better than what he did. Sometimes I feel as if it would have been better if he had simply left for good, but then I am certain my mother would implode. Chaos does not bode well for her although it is in her nature.”
(I appreciate your words)


What could that have meant?


“Well we should decide on where it is we’re going to eat. I don’t want to go to some place where the servers are going to piss me the fuck off… or better yet I think I have somewhere we can go. It won’t be super fancy, but I know somewhere with good food and pleasant company.”


“Well then I shall place myself in your hands. Lead the way.”


Eva smiled and in a matter of moments the portal leading them to the Prism opened up. They casually made their way inside to which they found Jayhe sitting patiently. She almost looked as if she were prepared to say something to the Aikekunai and yet the moment her eyes caught a glimpse of Gabi she seemed to almost grow pale. Like he was possibly the last thing she had hoped to see.


“Oh my. Well, hello Eva… Gabi…”


“Wait a minute? You know her? Damnit, this is why you piss me off! You knew someone who looks this adorable and you didn’t tell me about them?”


“Well I certainly can’t just send you the information of every single claimant I think you’d like child. Especially since you enjoy harming others at random and I will not help you do that.”


“Well it seems you two get along rather well.”


“Fucking bitch. Just open the portal to where I requested so I can get out of here.”


“You think I’d just do as you say after you speak to me like that? You can’t possibly believe I’m that much of a pushover.”


“I would like to request you just let me get to where I would like to be.” Gabi spoke as his wings shifted beneath his coat. “I am not a huge fan of the Prism und I would like to just get to my destination without having to get agitated beforehand.”


The ancient looked at him for a moment, their eyes locked onto one another and yet his blue eyes gave off a extreme sense of malice and bloodlust. It was almost as if he wanted to fight and yet that was certainly a poor decision to make for more reasons than one. The ancient eventually chose to give in and open the path for them to exit, but not before flashing Gabi a look that screamed ‘do not come back’. He wasn't going to give it a second thought.


As they stepped out of the portal and back into the human realm the air seemed so comforting. He could almost swear this felt familiar. It was warm and yet the wind was cold, the sun setting on the horizon revealing the open landscape around them, fields as far as the eyes could see with farm animals scattered about and crops growing far out into the distance, even the dirt and gravel path stretching out into the distance seemed familiar. Why was this all so familiar? It reminded him of when he was a child and yet that was not a feeling that ever managed to bode well.


“Come on. I’d rather get inside before the insects start to fly all over the fucking place.” Eva’s voice snapped his attention away from the distance.


He turned to follow her and upon doing it came to realize what was happening. The large house which sat before them. It wasn’t anything too special but large enough to be more than what the average person could easily own. Well managed, well maintained, clean and with the average design you’d expect from the average home. Alongside the land around them this entire setup would certainly cost a fortune. Maybe Eva was more perceptive than he had expected or possibly just toying with him all this time, but this couldn’t just be coincidence.


“This house…”


“Hurry up, I’m starving! We can’t stand out here all night!”


“R-right. My apologies. Watashi o fakku.”
(Fuck me.)


They approached the building slowly, Gabi lagging behind slightly until Eva knocked on the door. Why she chose not to use the doorbell only the ancients might possibly know, but they could hear the footsteps approaching from within the home. As the sound of the lock being released was heard from within the door Gabi could feel his stomach turn. Then once the door was opened the entire situation began to unfold itself.


“Oh! Eva, it is you! What might you be doing here so late?” Cyva spoke with a bright smile.


“Hello Cyva. We just came by to see if we could join you for dinner. The Void forbid we have to go to some shitty restaurant somewhere.”


“Could you not have gone to visit Jerimyha at his bar? He always makes good food, but I will not miss out on the chance for company.” She was always so cheerful. How she managed it was confusing, but that’s simply how Cyva had always been. “However you said ‘we’? Who have you brought along with—”


The woman turned her gaze to Gabi and in that moment her eyes lit up. Eva raised her brow, seemingly confused as to what had caused her to cut her sentence short. Then as the woman rushed over to Gabi it all made sense. The two, while Gabi was certainly taller, looked almost exactly identical save for Cyva having teal eyes and Gabi having pure blue alongside her freckles.


“Wait a minute. You two?”


“Ah, well, I suppose I owe you an explanation”, Cyva started as she positioned herself at Gabi’s side. “It’s quite the secret, but this is my beautiful daughter Gabi. Just look at her! Doesn’t she look just like me?”


“Well I do have my father’s eye color, as much as I hate it, but that is besides the point.”


“How long has it been since we’ve last spoken? When you began living on your own we just… lost all contact with you.”


“Yes, well I do very much enjoy my time alone. That und I did not want to really speak with either of you for quite some time. I still do not wish to speak with father.”


“I see...”


The two stand silently for a moment, eyes turned towards the ground as Eva still stood in shock and awe. Discovering that the very people Gabi was at odds with were people she knew, but seeing just how poor their relationship was only pressed her to desire after more information. What could she say? What could she ask? At this point was there really any reason to beat around the bush?


“Hold on a fucking second. Are you meaning to tell me that you two are seriously related and no one told me? What kind of bullshit is that?” she questioned the two of them to which Gabi sighed and approached the home.


“I suppose I can explain more over dinner. For now I should properly introduce myself. My name is Gahbriogyva Leigh Dimea, daughter of Cyva und Gahbreal, und I will have to request you keep this a secret. Me und my parents have gone to great lengths to assure no one knows my family ties. It will only be a hassle if the wrong people were to figure it out. There is no real punishment if you decide to tell others, but my father und Xainayne will certainly be unpleased."

“Gabi has always been quite the handful as a child. It was difficult enough to get her to do as she was told, but with Gahbreal working as much as he does the majority of her upbringing rested on my shoulders.”


Cyva spoke as she chopped up multiple vegetables and placed them to the side. There were carrots, potatoes, celery and a few small tomatoes. The room was filled with the smell of spices and herbs boiling in a pot of water which had been thickened with a mixture of flour and cream. The only thing left to be prepared was the large cut of beef lying on the counter to Cyva’s side. It wasn’t until Gabi came rounding a corner into the kitchen that the meat would even be touched.


“Gahbreal did his best to be a part of it all while also continuing his word, but… I could tell it was weighing on him more and more. Above all else he desired for her safety yet at the same time not many people know how he was raised like I do. He knows, just as I have come to learn in my own way, that the only person who can really protect you is yourself sometimes. It was why he mainly spent what little time he had with her aiming to perfect her combat skills.”


“That’s odd. I don’t think I’ve ever heard anything about Gabi fighting. Only her exploits in movies.”


“That is because I like to keep it that way”, he cut in as he sharpened the set of knives he would be using. “My father spent so much time focusing on combat and yet he did not realize that I am not one to fight when it does not please me. If I am going to fight it will always be on my terms.”


His mother laughed, pausing her chopping for a moment in favor of turning to her child. She could tell he was not pleased with her reaction yet could he blame her? She did spend the entirety of his childhood at his side, watching over him, keeping hi out of trouble. She knew that what he said was completely true.


“She is not wrong. I remember one time Gabi’s teacher called me and said she had kicked some boy in the face. Apparently they had told her she was ugly and no one would like her so she kicked him in the chin and dislocated his jaw. I was more concerned about the boy’s health and yet the teachers were more concerned about Gabi. Turns out he had told her that almost a full year before she retaliated and when asked why she would say—”


“I wanted him to understand that all actions have consequences. Even if it takes a hundred years there will always be consequences, und he should be glad I was lenient on my punishment.”


He spoke casually as he began cutting the cut of meat into medium sized cubes. A slight smile formed on his face when reminded of the past himself, causing him to chuckle ever so softly. Cyva smiled as well, pleased to see her daughter enjoying herself if only for a short moment. It was good to have her home again.


“At least it wasn’t as bad as when you would not hide your wings away. We had gotten you so many coats to wear so you would be comfortable while also hiding them and you simply would not do it. Granted you were quite young, but you wouldn’t listen to anyone around that age.”


“Ugh, do not remind me. I believe I was five und I thought it would be easier to just fly wherever I needed to go. It is embarrassing to think about.”


Eva rose to her feet quickly, nearly knocking the chair she was seated upon onto the ground. Both Cyva and Gabi turned to her which revealed a troublingly bright look on her face. For a moment he felt a sense of unease, almost as if something dreadful was going to happen. Then again she seemed to radiate that type of energy so it was only natural to feel that. What could she possibly want?


“Gabi… show me your wings.”


“I beg your pardon?” he responded with a raised eyebrow.


“Show me your wings! I need to see them now!”


“By the Void, what has gotten into you? Fine! Hold on a moment.”


He walked over to the pot of boiling ingredients and carefully placed each cube of meat into the mixture, making certain not to spill anything. Once done he washed the blood from his hands and dried them well before stepping into the more open area of the home where a large couch sat in front of a television. Looking at the couch did not bring him comfort or pleasant memories, but then again nothing inside this house would.


He removed his coat one sleeve at a time and upon it falling from his shoulders a pair of large black wings unfolded. Along with his arms they stretched out, a few rolls of the arms and he almost seemed more comfortable than before. They were completely black and yet the few feathers which fell from them as they opened faded into nothing only to be replaced from where they had once fallen. Once it seemed his stretch was complete they folded back behind him although in a far more casual manner, clearly visible and not pressed against his back.


“Oh thank the cores, I forgot how good it feels to stretch out like this. They stay folded up so much between work and being around everyone else. They start to feel stiff when I don’t move them around often.”


Cyva smiled at the sight, her daughter relaxing and being as comfortable as could be. Eva on the other hand stared in astonishment before standing to her feet and walking over to the taller woman. She grabbed his hands and looked him directly in the eyes.


“You look like an angel.”


“Aren’t angel wings white Eva sweetheart?”


“Cyva, don’t fucking ruin this for me! Besides! The human depiction of an angel is flawed! If the gods they believed in were as powerful as they claim then the wings should be whatever color they desire! That being said it is now settled. You will be my angel from now on.”


“Entschuldigen Sie?”
(Excuse me?)


“That’s right! You should be proud! You will watch over me as a loyal guardian for the rest of your days. Then, I can always count on my cute angel to save me from all manners of harm.”


“Eva, dear, you don’t need anyone to watch over you. You are among the most violent of the claimants. If anything many people need protection from you.”


“Cyva I swear to the ancients themselves I will carve your heart out if you ruin this for me! You may not want to belong to me but if I can get your daughter then I’ll have at least one of you!”


“Sorry Eva, I will have to pass on that offer. Not that I do not believe it would be fun to roam about with you, but I would prefer not to do anything combat oriented. The ancients have done quite a bit to ensure I need not enter the field of battle und I will not sully the kindness I have been permitted. I would rather continue my duties with my career.”


“Damnit. Well, if you ever change your mind I will always accept you. As my personal assistant.”


Cyva seemed to enter a rather heated conversation with Eva, something about her only wanting to spite Gahbreal with the offer to which the woman didn’t even bother refusing. At times it seemed as if she really didn’t like certain people and at others it seemed as if she were just a fan of causing a stir. Either way it wasn’t enough to distract Gabi from continuing what he had started.


The meal was beginning to smell wonderful, a stew made with all the basic ingredients they had always used. It was moments like these, sitting in his family home and cooking meals, that he would come to remember the good moments of the past. When he was at his youngest his father would come around far more often. He was about three or four at the time but his father was always prepared to spend as much time with him as possible. The days he would take him out shopping or to interact with other children. When he would have her accompany him to different places for work. The few times he had shown her how to cook and bake. Those were the memories that were so comforting and yet also so saddening.


“Where did all the good times go?” he spoke under his breath before his eyes rose from the pot and turned to look in the direction of the front door.


Was it just me, or did I just hear the wind shift outside?


“Eva, you can’t bother Gabi or distract her form her work. While she does not have any duties given by Xainayne that means she must make a living for herself. Things are difficult enough for her already and she won’t need the extra stress.”


Yes, I certainly heard something. It was clear as day. Like a gust apart from what the rest of the wind was doing around it. Then footsteps.


“Huh?! What do you mean by that?! Since when was I stressful to be around? Besides, it isn’t like I’m going to just interrupt all of her work from now on!”


The steps are heavy. Casual. Almost as if they believe they belong here. Familiar.


“You would show up in places where you weren’t allowed to be just to talk with me Eva. I understand that you have the things you enjoy, but you cannot allow it to disturb others around you. I could barely get any work done without you popping up.”


“I can’t believe you think I’m that overbearing! Normally I wouldn’t forgive you, but since I’ve gotten the chance to meet your cute daughter I suppose I’ll let it slide… Gabi?”


His hands were pressed against the countertop, nails digging into the marble as his teeth pressed together violently. His eyes were now locked onto their meal resting over the fire, and yet the blue orbs were clearly focused on something else. By now both Eva and Cyva had turned their attention to him and yet they did not understand what he understood.


Being trained by Gahbreal was not meant to be taken lightly and it was certainly no small ordeal. Cyva would tell the normal person that he rarely ever agrees to train or even oversee others, taking on student being even more rare. Gabi on the other hand would grow impatient even being asked the question. Being raised from day one within his household, you would come to find him as clearly filled with compassion. Growing older it would soon be apparent that you were destined to be taught about combat by him and once it began nothing was ever easy. Every ounce of your being would be pushed to its limits. Most people would call him a ‘wolf culling lambs’, but Gabi saw things a completely different way.


He is not so great that I would call him a wolf among lambs. That would mean me saying he was all powerful compared to everyone else. There are many capable of fighting him with equal power if they had the skill to do so. No, my father is a wolf amongst countless other wolves. As his child I suppose I was just meant to be the same.


“You have to be fucking kidding me.”


Just as the words fled from his lips the sound of the door handle being used alerted the other two of what was happening. Cyva was the first to understand as she knew her far too well, Eva quickly coming to the conclusion moments later. The door swung open and with a few heavy steps entering the home it would be closed yet again.


Of course she would be sharp enough to hear something like that. For fuck’s sake, is everyone born from his family’s blood some kind of physical monster? It's the same shit with both May and Hellfire.


The steps began ,making their way across the house and as they did he began to speak.


“Hey love, you didn’t have to make dinner. I thought I told you I’d take care of that tonight. I won’t be able to stay for long. Me and Nier have been given another joint assignment. Somethin about a group of assholes tryin to start a war. I should have a few hours to—” he paused as he rounded the corner and saw Eva sitting at the table. “I see we have company. No wonder you decided to… cook.”


He stopped in his tracks, red eyes resting on the head of blonde hair next to his wife’s. He wanted to smile, the twitch at the corner of his lips was enough to give that away to Cyva and Eva, but at the same time he could not bring himself to do it. This wasn’t the type of situation in which he could rightfully smile, was it? He had to do something at least. Say something. But what could he possibly say that wouldn’t be shot down in an instant?


“Ga—”


“Jikan o muda ni shinaide kudasai! Nidoto iimasen... Moshi anata ga hanashi tari nakayoku shitai nonara, zutto mae ni sō shite itadeshou.”
(Don't waste your time! I will not say it again... if you wanted to talk and get along you would have done so a long time ago.)


He stood silently for a moment, Eva watching to see what response he might have. This was a good chance to learn more about their relationship and any little detail would be more than enough.


“I suppose you’re right. It was good seeing you again.”


What?!


She watched as the father and daughter parted ways then and there. He didn’t even attempt to speak more, to get in a word. All the times she had opposed him, spoken out of line, outright told him to die in some ditch and he always seemed to be prepared to push back against it. Seeing him fold like this was unnatural. He simply turned and walked away into his and Cyva’s bedroom.


What could have possibly happened between those two?


Cyva did not waste any time going after him. It made sense, the order claimant had never seen anything like it. If he were capable of turning him away so easily the girl might have been a major pawn in having Gahbreal never oppose you. Gabi hated both Gahbreal and Xainayne. If at some point he ever decided he wanted to outright defy them, mobilizing Gahbreal against an enemy that was also his daughter would be an impossible task to ask even for him. It might even cause his own betrayal depending on his state of mind at the time. At first it was a simple means to spend time with a possible friend and now it turned out to be quite the scenario for Eva to gather information.


“So… do you mind telling me what that was all about?” she questioned Gabi who seemed agitated just to hear her speak.


“I would rather not speak about it. Let us simply get this meal over with so I can return home. I knew this was a fucking mistake.”


“You don’t have to be so stressed. It won’t hurt to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, so just talk to—” she was cut off by the sound of steel embedding itself into stone, the crack of shattering marble and snapping wood. A closer look and she would find the knife which was being held in Gabi’s hand planted firmly into the countertop, the wooden handle crushed beneath his grip. Her gaze roamed up to meet his eyes and upon doing so would be met with two red glowing circles where the blue had once been. “Is that madness? Just like Gahbreal’s?”


Gabi twitched, as if being snapped back into his senses. He released the knife to which the splinters of wood fell to the floor and took several deep breaths. With each breath the red slowly faded until there wasn’t a single sign of it.


“I apologize, but I really do not wish to speak about it. Maybe another time. For now I would just like to eat and get out of here.”


Just as he finished speaking Cyva came walking back out of the room where she had gone to meet her husband. She didn’t even stop to notice the damaged which had been caused to the kitchen, instead making her way over to Gabi and turning down the flame beneath all of the food. Then, with a hand placed on her daughter’s shoulder she would speak.


“Come with me. We need to talk for a moment.”


The darkness claimant nodded with a sigh and followed behind his mother who lead them to the front door. They slipped their shoes on before heading out into the open air. They walked for about several minutes, until their home was far off in the distance. It was probably so that the daughter and father could go without hearing one another. Then they stopped in a clearing amongst the surrounding crops where Cyva would begin to speak.


“Is it not possible for the two of you to at least speak? I has been five years since we last saw one another and even longer since you or your father were face to face. You could both at least talk to one another.”


“Es tut mir leid, Mutter. Ich sehe einfach kein Szenario, in dem ich diesen Mann mag. Es spielt keine Rolle, wie sehr er sich entschuldigt. Seine Handlungen sind mehr als genug, um mir zu zeigen, dass sich nichts geändert hat.”
(I'm sorry mother. I just don't ever see a scenario in which I will like that man. It doesn't matter how much he apologizes. His actions are more than enough to show me nothing has changed.)


“Gabi, er kann nicht viel tun. Dein Vater hat viel zu tun und seine Arbeit erfordert fast immer, dass er weg ist. Er hat getan, was er konnte, um die Dinge mit dir zu reparieren, die einzige Möglichkeit, die er konnte, während er gleichzeitig die Ordnung aufrechterhielt. Gib ihm einfach eine Chance.”
(Gabi, there is not much he could do. Your father has a lot to deal with and his work almost always requires he be away. He did what he could to mend things with you the only way he could do so while also maintaining order. Just give him a chance.)


“Er hat seine Chance verloren! Außerdem hätte er, wenn er wirklich reden wollte, dies in den letzten Jahren jederzeit getan. Er kann Mörder und Mörder finden, die versuchen, sich vor ihm zu verstecken, und doch habe ich mich überhaupt nicht versteckt. Er entschied sich, die ganze Zeit nicht zu sprechen.”
(He lost his chance! Besides, if he really wanted to talk he  would have done so at any time these past years. He can find murderers and killers attempting to hide from him and yet I haven't been hiding at all. He chose not to speak all this time.)


A sigh escaped Cyva’s lips as she sat on the ground. The woman seemed defeated and yet that was not the feeling she gave off.  She looked tired, exhausted, as if she hadn’t slept in years.


“Gahbriogyva. We do not live forever, we are not immortal. Your father has fought countless battles over countless generations and throughout that time he has certainly died multiple times. From what I know each of his past lives were far from the same and that goes for all Aikekunai like him. Claimants like Stasia, DeVian and Eva just to name a few. Their past lives were not the same as their current lives as well and it is because of this that I fear every single day I will receive news of your father going out to fight and never coming back.”


Cyva stood back up to her feet and walked over to her daughter, placing her hands on his shoulders. It was always so easy to see how genuine his mother was. Even now, when she was trying to be strong and demanding of him with her eyes locked directly onto his own it was easy to see how close to tears she was. It was truly a sad sight to see.


“He does not have the choice, it is everything he is and he refuses to share the job with anyone else. He lacks the heart to make anyone else do his duty in his stead and so his entire life as well as his future is all dedicated to his work. That does not mean it comes before you or me, your father has made it clear that he is more than prepared to drop everything for our sakes, but that does not mean he is unwilling to die for the sake of his duty and when he does the same man will not exist. Although he may carry the same name he will not be the same person. I would just like you to know the same Gahbreal I know, if only you’d give him the chance to make up for what he has done.”


Gabi frowned, his features softening as he took another deep breath. Of course his mother was right. That was one of the first things they had made clear to him upon his being capable of understanding the concept. Not even the ancients were safe from death. His father wasn’t doing just anything with all of his time, it was a continuous battle that never ended behind the scenes. A mock peace hidden behind the works of him and his subordinates. His life was always at considerable risk the moment he left his home nine times out of ten.


Even so he could not bring himself to forget the past. To outright forgive him for the mistakes of the past? It was not going to happen. Even so, with that look in his mother’s eyes, he didn’t have much of a choice. While Gabi did not care much for his father’s desires he certainly cared for everything his mother desired. While he hated how she always took his side it was impossible to assume she would do anything other than that. The woman was prepared to kill for his sake, fight for his sake and even die for his sake. This was no different after all.


“Alright. I give. If you want me to do something then I will try. Do not blame me however if things do not go well.”


“All I ask is that you try. I’m not going to pretend that you two will ever get along, but I would like you to live without the regret of never speaking with one another.”


“I understand.”


“Good, and thank you sweetheart. I will head back home and continue preparing dinner. You should take the time to relax outside for a moment before you come back. It has been a while since you’ve been here with us. Spread your wings and take it all in. I know you want to.”


Gabi’s eyes lit up, the reminder of where he was flushing through his system. He could remember it so clearly, the childlike voice he once had calling for his mother to watch him. For his father to help him. He could clearly see the little girl flapping his black wings in an attempt to lift himself off of the ground and before he could even stop himself the wingbeats at his mother’s back was more than enough to tell her he was off and in the skies. She only looked back once to see his soaring through the air before she continued on her way back to their home.


Gahbriogyva was incapable of holding back his smile. He hadn’t flown like this since the night he had left this house for good, five years ago. It made his chest feel tight to think about it. He would spend the vast majority of his time as a child gliding gracefully through the air to strengthen his wings and just be alone with his thoughts. The time he had gone through his first breakup he found himself in these skies above his home, when his father would miss his birthdays or his graduations he would be in the sky, when things did not go how he desired…


The cool breeze brushing against his cheeks and through the strands of golden hair atop his head. The feeling of the wind travelling through his cloths and across his frame. It sent a shiver up his spine and through his soul. Before he knew it the tears were already falling down his cheeks.


“Why could he not just stay the way he was at the start? This would not be so hard if he had just stayed the same”, he told himself as he closed his eyes.


Gabi could almost imagine it, see it clearly. The small girl running across the field with the larger male walking behind her with his eyes trained on their surroundings. He was always so cautious back then. He could see him lifting the girl up and watching with a proud smile as her small wings flapped and fluttered in the wind. In that moment it almost seemed like nothing else in the world existed. If only he didn’t remember his childhood so clearly. It might not make how things were now hurt so much.

He stepped into the home, slipping his shoes from his feet as he made his way back into the kitchen. He was certainly calmer. Levelheaded at the least and prepared to continue on with their plans for the night. His mother was smiling as brightly as ever. The two of them rarely ever agreed on anything and yet when they did it was always in her favor. At least both him and his father had that in common. When it came to telling her ‘no’ it was absolutely impossible to do so. At least once he was old enough to understand just how emotions worked.


Gahbreal was out and about, sitting on the couch sharpening and polishing off his axe. Eva seemed to be intent on having a conversation with him and yet the concepts they spoke of didn’t make any sense. It was almost as if they were speaking a different language and yet that might have just been his own mind attempting the cancel out the noise.


Gabi’s eyes traced the edge of his weapon, how he managed to keep it so clean and sharp a mystery of its own. His mother had told him that the weapon experienced consistent use and because of this he had to make certain to work on its upkeep daily. It was one of the few things he could remember seeing him do from the past outside of the usual sparring and time spent together as a child, but looking at it more closely as an adult it was so very ominous. The only truly clean part of the weapon was its edge, sharp enough to cut through the air itself with how much time he spent giving it care. The rest of the weapon was stained with shades of blood that looked as if they’d never wash away. Even tinges of madness seemed to creep along its frame.


“You don’t understand, Eva. This isn’t some kind of game. Sometimes the actions we take can be the difference between peace and conflict. We are held amongst important people and because of this our actions are not just our own.”


His father’s voice finally reached him, tearing through the fabric of his makeshift serenity. They must have been talking about work.


“As if that ever mattered to me. I do as I please and that’s that. If it causes someone an inconvenience then that’d be their own problem. If I worried about all the pansy fucks who complain about every move I make then I’d never be able to get anything done. You can worry about that crap if you want to, but I certainly won’t.”


“You can’t keep acting out of line like that Eva! One of these days you’re going to end up harming or killing someone and it won’t be forgiven. Jayhe has asked me on multiple occasions to cover for you and do what I can to make up for your slip ups, but that can only go so far.”


“Then maybe you should mind your own business! What I do with my time and my power does not equate to what you desire for me to do. If I want someone to die then they die, if I want to start a war then I will start a war and nothing you say or do can stop me! Perhaps you should learn to watch your tone because I’m not some child awaiting guidance from you.”


“I know that, Eva, but you need to understand that you can’t keep acting in such a chaotic manner! For fuck’s sake! How can an order claimant embody the exact opposite of what their title states? You’ve managed to avoid the brunt of most major conflicts of the past so you may not understand, but war amongst the ancients is the last thing anyone needs. Once war starts sides are inevitably formed, factions and allies band together and the moment an ancient calls for us to fight there is no other choice. As lackluster as it is, the peace we have now is far better than what the past held, and I will not risk the chance of my family being at war with one another! This impacts all of us, not just you, and I would hope you understand that.”


“Oh I understand. I just don’t very much care. You will come to realize it eventually, whether you finally listen or it gets forced into your thick skull. When I desire something it very much belongs to me. Whether it be lives, hearts, items of vanity or war itself. It will all belong to me if I want after it. My life is no one person’s to command aside form myself. There is only one person I would allow to order me about and it certainly is not you.”


“Anata wa jibun jishin o mimamoru ka, sukunakutomo tanin no sewa o suru koto o manabubekidesu. Anata wa jibun ga fure rarenai to shinjite iru kamo shiremasenga, sekai wa anata ga nozomu koto o nani demo dekiru hodo shinsetsude wa arimasen.”


“Bié nàme shǎ. Nǐ yīnggāi xiàng qítā rén yīyàng liǎojiě nǐ zài wǒ zhī xià de wèizhì. Wǒ de yuànwàng yě kěyǐ chéngwéi fǎlǜ. Wǒ de chūshēng yǐjí wǒ de zhíwèi dōu zhèngmíngliǎo zhè yīdiǎn.”


As Eva’s words concluded so did her eyes shift to Gabi who stood by his mother’s side watching the conversation unfold. He could see it clearly, the determination, the seriousness, status made plain. Her eyes were like daggers digging into the frame of his skin. It almost felt as if a sharpened blade was being plunged directly into his breast and gave him the desire to choke. Then he remembered who exactly he was and a sigh escaped his lips.


His father looked over as well, noticing his child had come back to the home he rested his axe on the floor and stood to his feet. It would have been optimal in his own mind to avoid having her see him like this, but it was much too late for that. Cyva had all but ignored the entire situation and continued to cook. Seeing that must have meant this was a common occurrence. 


“Well, you two are rather on edge? I do not believe I have experienced such a heated argument outside of… well… myself speaking with my coworkers.” He leaned against the edge of the counter top and turned his attention directly to Eva. “Moshi anata ga watashinochichi to no sensō ni owattara, sore wa anata ga gijutsu-teki ni mo watashi to sensō o suru koto o imi suru koto o anata wa shitte imasu ka?”
(You do realize that if you end up in some war against my father that means you would technically be at war with me as well?)


That was enough to grab Cyva’s attention. Not so much concerned with Eva yet rather concerned with her daughters statement. The way he chose to speak could have meant many different things. It could have been a declaration of his own opposition towards Eva’s choice of words, it could have been an outright threat if he truly meant it, but Cyva was most concerned with the implications that came along with it. There was no time to be pleased with her daughter siding with his father for once, rather there was more concern to be had with Gabi outwardly stating that he was willing to fight at all. Just looking at Gahbreal’s face she could see he had realized the same.


“Oh? So you’d be willing to fight if I were to go against your father?”


“Do not think so lowly of my reason for fighting. All I will say is that a lot has been done for me to be capable of living the way I currently do und, much to my dismay, I would not be capable of continuing that lifestyle if a war were to begin. While no one knows my origin as you do, they certainly know I am a claimant. All it will take is someone deciding to target me in that time und my ‘lackluster peace’ would end right there.”


They both stood motionless for a moment, gazes locked as it seemed they were in some invisible conflict with one another. Then Eva cracked the slightest smile before bursting into laughter.


“I’m liking you more by the second. Gahbreal couldn’t handle a joke if it were all the world had left, and he certainly takes everything far too seriously. You on the other hand seem to be akin to standing your ground in my favorite type of way.”


“Well I have never been one to back down easily und if you were serious then all that would mean is I was serious as well.”


“Well you have no need to worry”, she spoke as she turned her attention to Gahbreal. “I have no desire for war as of the moment. While I certainly won’t give a damn about Jayhe, or any of the other ancients really, that doesn’t mean I’d start some fruitless fucking war. We all certainly desire peace in our own way. My path toward peace is just much longer than yours.”


Cyva sighed as she went back to working on their dinner. Gahbreal on the other hand leaned back on the couch and relaxed himself. He could almost hear him saying ‘this is too much stress for me’ as he often did when he was a child. Then again it was expected when dealing with the stunts he’d often pull. At one point he had even attempted to fly as high as he possibly could when his wings had grown large enough to allow flight. Neither his father nor mother were capable of flight and he ended up having to throw her up into the air so that his mother could catch him. Then his father had to catch them both which certainly left him injured for almost a week.


That was the first time he had learned just how powerful his father was, and the older he grew the more apparent it became. As a child he would often attempt tossing items the same height as his father had once thrown his mother and yet there didn’t seem like there would be a possible way to ever match it. Around the time he had almost given up on matching his father’s feat of strength was the same day he would approach him out in the field and say something Gabi would never forget.


If you want to be strong then you have to be prepared to work for it. My blood runs through your veins, and as such you will be capable of being strong just as I was taught, but it will not be easy. We must prepare you for the worst. I will always be more than willing to protect you at all costs, but a time may come when I am not there to watch you from the darkness.


He spoke in such a casual manner on that day and yet the implications were dire. He remembered wondering what might cause his father to be out of reach? What could ever stand in his way or prevent his momentum? He had seen his father do so much, move things that no one else could move, even lift things that no one else he knew could ever imagine lifting. With all of that he still felt as if something might manage to keep them apart. Perhaps he knew how their relationship would turn out and was prepared to sacrifice it for his sake, or maybe he believed he might fall in battle… the answer was as vague now as it was then.


“The food is prepared.”


Cyva’s voice caused her child to snap back to the present, breaking from his own thoughts and realizing he had been within his own mind for about a few minutes. Eva quickly made her way to the dinner table and seated herself wherever she saw fit. Cyva went about gathering the plates and glasses to place in their positions on the table. Gabi remained in his position leaning against the marble counter, watching to make sure his mother didn’t require any assistance gathering items.


Cyva paused for a moment on her way to the table, head following her now moving husband as he made his way to the front entrance with axe in hand. She did not do anything out of the ordinary. It wasn’t as if she had expected him to stay much longer. He did mention that he had more time, but she knew better than anyone that when the ancients call he could not truly deny them.


“Are you leaving already? I will make certain that there is something for you to eat upon your return.”


“Thank you, my love. I will be home later tonight.”


“Do you not plan to stay?” Gabi spoke as he walked over to the pot of cooked stew. “It has been a while since we have eaten a meal together.”


Cyva did not stop her movements, rather she simply smiled upon hearing the words. Eva did not pay it any mind, focusing entirely on the meal which she had been waiting for. Gahbreal on the other hand stopped and sighed. A poor sign to say the least. All that meant was the exact same thing it always meant.


“I can’t stay… however, you can come along with me if you’d like.”


For a moment he wanted to believe that it was expected his father would just leave. But then—


“What did you say?”


“You can come with me, if you’d like. You’re more than old enough to be present for whatever this job may be. Why not?”


Cyva looked as if she were prepared to pass out. It wasn’t very often anyone had the opportunity to see the woman when she was truly angry, but now was certainly the time.


“Gahbreal, have you lost your mind? What if something were to happen to her?”


“Nothing’s gonna happen. She’ll be right next to me the entire time.”


“Can you be certain of that? I will not have my little girl come to any harm! Do you hear me?”


“Sich beruhigen. I will be fine mother. It is not like this would be my first time in a combat scenario. It will be perfectly fine.”
(Calm down.)


“Sweetheart, this is not going to be the same as what you normally would expect. The average claimant does not have to face the types of situations people such as your father does. There are choice claimants who can live average lives and there are others who were born for battle. Your father comes from a family of that type and as such his duties are aligned with that heritage. If you must fight it will not be a simple scuffle. You will be engaged in battle.”


“As I said mother, I will be fine. A large portion of my life was dedicated to being proficient in combat. Believing that I cannot hold my own at this point would be more of an insult than anything else.”


Cyva was prepared to argue against it further, but this was a good opportunity. If this would allow her husband and daughter to get along for even the slightest bit of time, or have them connect in the tiniest way, it would be worth it. Not only that but seeing the look on her child’s face was enough to tell her that the woman wasn’t going to back down. They were both so difficult to deal with sometimes, but that was what made them father and daughter.


“Fine. I will allow this, however it goes without saying that if Gahbriogyva gets hurt I will—”


“I know, my love. I’m not going to let her get hurt. Watashi wa mo~tsu to hayaku shinudeshou.”
(I would sooner die.)


“Korrektur. Du würdest sterben. Now hurry along before someone shows up to complain.”
(Correction. You would die.)


With that Gabi waved to his mother as well as Eva before following behind Gahbreal who was already slipping his boots on. It was always odd that he managed to remain so clean when his work was nothing near the word. The daughter reached for his coat but his hand was intercepted by his father’s own. The action was confusing yet he didn’t waste time before explaining himself.


“You won’t need that. It will get in the way of your wings and you’re going to be using them most likely. You’re gonna be doing claimant work, you can fly around as much as you want.”


That caused a slight smile to form on his face and the first one his father had seen in half a decade. The woman fashioned her shoes over her feet and reached under the small table next to the entrance, but what Eva didn’t expect to see as she awaited their departure was for Gabi to pull a custom shotgun from under the piece of furniture. Triple barrel, small enough to fit in cloths and unfathomably dangerous looking. Not because of anything completely drastic, but mainly due to the amount of wear and tear it had seen as well as all the custom decals almost entirely covering its frame.


“Holy shit Gahbreal, you never told me you used a gun!”


“That’s because I don’t…”


“It is mine dear”, Gabi stated as she reached into a large case resting on top of the container. “My glove is at my house and Nammay told me I should always keep it there in case I need it. This gun was made by Uncle Nier who specifically told me to leave it with my father. Something about him bringing it to him for daily maintenance so it will not shatter to pieces.”


“It can’t be helped loved. You said you wanted a gun and Nier agreed to make it. Neither of us knew he was planning to make the damn thing for people of our physical aptitude. The bullets are all custom made by Nier too and they have so much power behind them the weapon can only fire so many shots before it starts falling apart. You couldn’t even use the thing until we worked to increase your physical strength.”


“He meant well and that is all that truly matters. Besides, I can use it now. Perhaps he expected me to get strong enough to use it, which did happen.”


“Wait a second, Nier knows about you too?” Eva questioned Gabi.


Gabi looked at her friend as if expecting she would have assumed that were the case. Then again Nier was a very specific person. Serious about his work yet playful beyond compare. An overall troublemaker at heart with a duty he was more than prepared to perform at any given time. He could go from normal conversation to cutting someone’s head off at an alarming speed, but that only meant he would take it extremely seriously when told not to let anyone know about him.


Eva certainly wouldn’t know unless he told her and he wouldn’t do that at all. Then again this was Eva, and based on what Gabi could glean from a single day of time with her… she most likely just couldn’t believe so many people would keep it secret from her.


“Of course I would know Uncle Nier. If I am remembering correctly he was present on the day of my birth. Right mother?”


“To my dismay, yes. That madman. He showed up on the day of her birth and took note of every detail about her he saw. Then, cut to a month later, he sends us lists of materials he would use to make her a wedding ring! All of the materials based on the experience of her birth and what he called her ‘preferences’.”


“You cannot say he was incorrect however, the ring is my favorite and I have yet to see one I like better.”


“Wait. He made the ring?”


“Yes! He sent us those lists and then actually made the ring as a gift on her tenth birthday! She’s been holding onto it ever since.”


“I have to visit him for maintenance every so often to make certain it stay at the proper size for my finger, but I won’t be growing anymore so it is perfect now.”


Gahbreal opened the door and looked out into the night sky. It was dark, comfortable, beautiful even. The stars littered the night sky and as he stepped out into the open a breeze of cool air brushed against his skin. It was this weather and night sky that made him love being home with his wife rather than out doing whatever tasks the ancients had to offer him. This would be okay however compared to other nights. With his daughter at his side everything would be okay.


“Alright Gabi, let’s get going. We’re gonna be late.”


“Okay. Eva, I will have my father bring me to your home after we have finished up. We have something to discuss.”


With those words he stepped out into the night air with his father. After a brief moment, and a quick check to make certain they had everything they needed, the portal opened. The two stepped inside and a familiar feeling washed over him. How long had it been since he had been in this pocket of the void? Then again it only ever lasted for a short moment before they ended up where they needed to be.


“You finally came. Good. The sooner we get this done the sooner everyone can calm down… by the way, that child at your side. Is this?”


“Yes, Lunia. That is my daughter.”


“It has been so long since I last saw her, and she has grown so much!”


“Hello Lunia. So what are we here to handle?”


“She will be working with you then? That will work. Now, the reason I called you here… it’s Le’eroy. He snuck out again.”

“So this will be another search for Le’eroy? Do you have any idea where he has gone?” Gahbreal questioned the ancient to which they gave a shake of the head.


“This is Little Moon we’re talking about. If he’s good at anything it would be covering his tracks, but he barely leaves any as is. I have a faint idea on the area you may find him in, but that won’t be enough to just find him outright.” Lunia approached Gahbreal and handed him a small slip of paper before whispering something just out of Gabi’s hearing range before speaking bluntly again. “This is of the utmost importance. You know how volatile Le’eroy can be so please make sure you find him before he causes any trouble.”


“Understood. We will leave immediately.”


With that Gahbreal opened the path back to the human realm, Gabi giving Lunia a smile and wave before passing through along with him. This job seemed far more formal than he had initially anticipated it would be. All this time he had assumed his father was a bounty hunter of sorts and yet with a task like this it became clear that would not be the case. His father did quite literally anything that was asked of him from the ancients and it was possible that combat would be involved, however it wasn’t assured. Then again there were more important things to worry about.


Le’eroy. Someone his mother had always referred to as dangerous. Not that he was a terrible person, but rather he was easy to get on the wrong side of. His mother would say he ‘lacked the social qualities of your average person and only understands battle’, while his father would say ‘Le’eroy is one hell of a fighter, someone you don’t want to end up in conflict with unless you know you can win’. Was this really the type of place for him to be? From what his parents had said it could only be gleaned that he would decide if he cared for him in a moment and depending on that answer attack without mercy.


He couldn’t contain the smile which grew on his face. This would certainly be a good opportunity, one which would allow him to fight freely if it came down to that, but hopefully they could avoid conflict. Le’eroy was no Aikekunai so it wasn’t like he lived the same type of life as his father, but Le’eroy was also quite old compared to her and had fought in one of the wars of the past. If things came to blows this would no doubt be somewhat troublesome if 


“Are you alright?” his father questioned him which. Gabi had been so focused on his thoughts that he didn’t even realize they were at their destination. “You seem lost in thought.”


“I am fine. There is nothing to worry about. So tell me, where is this place you have brought me?”


It was a large forest and there they stood in the dead of night, upon the forest floor. It was humid, but thankfully it was not raining. The soil beneath their feet was soft yet sturdy enough to not fold under their weight. The trees were all tall and loomed overhead yet most surprising was the wild nature of the place. There were only few places left around the world which were so floral, left out of the hands of those who would tarnish the natural growth of the location.


“This is the Amazon rainforest. Le’eroy has come here in the past to hunt, something about 'offerings of quality meat for Evyette'. He tends to gift the ancients and treasures gifts from his hunts, but he’s only ever come to the amazon for Evyette. He prefers to gift them meats from dangerous creatures. He tried to give Evyette Komodo dragon meat once, but that didn't turn out well.”


“Interesting. So then, where should we start our search?”


Gahbreal looked around the area, it was easy to see the red lingering within his eyes while they were surrounded by this darkness. They were just as observant as always yet still just as hostile as he could remember.


“Don’t get caught off guard by any of the animals in this area. While most creatures tend to avoid us at all costs it is never easy to tell when that might change. I will move along the ground to the east from here. You follow from above and let me know if you see anything. Based on the way Lunia spoke he has been gone for a few days now so he will most likely be well hidden. Keep your eyes open for small details that are out of the ordinary or discrepancies in nature.”


“Alright. Let us get this over with.”


His wings opened up and from them came a gust of wind before he leapt into the air and rose high above the trees. Maybe it was his father’s training or simply just because of the Dimea name, but it was so natural to see at night. Sometimes the light itself was too bright and yet this dimly lit night was perfectly clear. It was easy to see his father moving beneath him.


Gabi flew overhead, watching as Gahbreal quickly moved beneath him. This was a new experience. He had never managed to see what his father did for work and yet there was a sense of danger all around them. It wasn’t instinct or a premonition, rather a foreboding sense of unease all around them. Neither of them knew where their target was or what exactly they were doing, but what they did know is that they were looking for one of Lunia’s claimants while bathed in moonlight. A hunter in the forest. A claimant who could be either hostile or calm and there was no telling which.


There were multiple showers of rain all around them, visible from a distance away yet not close enough to affect them. They all seemed rather normal… excluding one in particular. A look down towards the ground and it would become clear that his father was calling for his attention. Gabi descended quickly to the ground, landing calmly onto the grass and dirt below.


“I haven’t noticed any footprints and although there have been signs of movement and hunting the rain has all but washed away any trails. From here it looks as if he were heading north, although he could have made it seem that way to trick anything attempting to track him.”


“He would go to such lengths to avoid us.”


“Technically the reason is twofold, but of course. Le’eroy likes his freedom, but he has trouble controlling himself at times. He is kept on a rather tight leash to assure he doesn’t do anything crazy, but it’s because of that he always knows he will be pursued if he leaves without permission. That and he is a hunter by nature. He covers his tracks all the time."


“So he knows someone will be after him. That will make this more annoying. By the way, I do not know his abilities, but I saw something strange from above. There were multiple areas around us which were being affected by rain. One of those areas seemed darker than the others, almost as if the rain or air itself were discolored und I could barely see through it. It was to the north as well.”


Gahbreal seemed to be busy thinking about the details he was given, but he didn’t waste time focusing on the thought. Instead he made use of the information as quickly as he could.


“Alright. You lead the way to that area and I will follow behind you, might have spotted one of his abilities. Be careful, and if anything happens then land immediately. We will deal with this together. I’m sure he won’t be happy to just go along with us. Most importantly however we have to make sure we don’t present a challenge. If he decides on fighting then it can’t be helped.”


“Understood.”


Gabi jumped back up into the air, wings catching hold of the wind and carrying him higher. The area was beautiful, a marvel of nature and yet also a massive hellhole. From below it was ominous enough but from above it was difficult to see through all the foliage. Then again that wasn’t important. What mattered was making his way to the area specified. If this was where his father had chosen to go then this rain that seemed difficult to see through would no doubt have something to do with their target.


His focus shifted to combat, wondering what exactly to expect if things shifted to an exchange of blows. If Le’eroy was as intense as his father and mother had described him then an outright fight in the forest would be disadvantageous right from the start, and he would no doubt spot them before they even knew his exact location. If he chose to attack then there would be no room for error. Then again it wasn’t like it would prove to be anything that couldn’t be handled. His eyes strayed down to the forest floor where Gabi spotted his father quickly moving through the trees. With the two of them together this would be child’s play no doubt.


He clutched tightly onto the weapon in his hand, brushing his fingers along the barrel before checking to make certain the shells had been properly loaded. By now they were closing in on the area where the rain seemed discolored and upon closer inspection it was all coming together. From a distance it seemed like the average droplets of water, but upon better examination it could be seen that the rain itself was black. The mist in the air created by the falling water as well as the black coloration of the water itself made for poor conditions. Then again it would be easy enough to see through something like this and if things became too serious then he’d just have to use an ability or two. It would be expected that he fight back with his abilities if attacked, right? What wasn’t expected however was the response to entering the area.


“What in the Void is that?” Gabi uttered under his breath.


A slight gleam of light from within the trees the moment the raindrops began falling on his person. He always hated the rain and how it weighed down his feathers, but as the gleam began approaching at high speeds things quickly changed for the worst.


“Shit!”


With a twist of his wings he twirled off to the side, just barely escaping the massive sword that came spinning through the air in his direction. An attack like that right from the start? They hadn’t even spoken or properly seen one another! That would have killed him if he didn’t move out of the way, but why would he attack like this without proper reason?


A setup? Possibly for a secondary attack? Anticipate! Counter!


His head quickly turned on a swivel, facing his back where there was now a... person? When did they get there? How did they get there? Not only that, but they had also managed to catch the weapon which had been thrown and was preparing to attack again. This had to be him and yet there was no way. Then again he had decided to attack him so didn’t that mean he could attack back? This was no doubt the person they came here for, so perhaps combat was going to be the only way out of this. No one could really blame him for this, right?


A quick glance would reveal he wasn’t flying at all, rather falling from his position. Had he managed to get above him? No, again, he would have spotted something like that. Could he move around freely through means of teleportation? Why had no one described what he was capable of ability wise to him before? Either way there was only one means of him reaching with an attack and that would be with another throw. If this person was strong enough to catch the sword then there was no way he would allow them to appear stronger then him, and once his weapon was taken then that would mean the end of this fight.


Being prepared for the attack made things far more manageable, but that didn’t mean it was easy in the slightest. Le’eroy threw his weapon, as expected, and rather moving out of the way Gabi instead opted to catch the weapon himself. It was just as difficult as he thought it would be, and it did cause him to recoil ever so slightly in the air. However distance wasn’t a problem for him as he raised the shotgun in his left hand.


“You attacked me first. Understand I will not be holding back.”


Gahbreal kept his eyes forward, attention glued to the environment as he proceeded. It was always difficult to track down Le’eroy, but when he used this rain it just made everything nearly impossible. There were certain tells for his position, things like him always being in the center of the downpour, but with the hindered sight and hearing it only made things more of a hassle. That coupled with Le’eroy’s wild sense of hearing he could probably tell they were nearby before they even touched the rain.


A crack followed by a thunderous boom and his attention would quickly turn to the skies. Above him the sight of his daughter as well as Le’eroy? No, of course not. Personally he knew that the male had no way of reaching those heights and yet that only made the situation clearer. He had been shot clearly as the smoking barrel of Gabi’s gun had made that clear, but the girl seemed to have the same thought in mind as he kept his distance from the target. The distance wasn’t far enough however. This was going to turn out poorly if he didn’t act fast. Le’eroy was easy enough to handle on his own, but his daughter would be a different story if things went too far.


“Pup! Get back!” he shouted to the woman who’s eyes confirmed his order.


Too slow, much too slow as the skin on Le’eroy’s body became a translucent shell of water filled with a black smog. The shell erupted seconds later, bursting into a large area of smoke which covered a large portion of the sky. He could not tell what his daughter was thinking, but he knew which action should have been taken next.


“Come to me! Get out of the sky or he’ll keep attacking you!”


The smoke had completely enveloped him, making sight all but useless. His father’s voice had caught his attention and gave him direction, the only proper thing he could think to clearly follow and yet it also seemed too easy. This person who could see at long distances in this pouring rain, who moves so cautiously in this environment and, most importantly, is a member of Lunia’s house of archers… why did he choose to attack with a sword from that distance? That person he had taken down in the sky was a clone, an ability to confuse him alongside the rain which was already hindering his sight. Perhaps landing was the proper choice.


Or maybe it is all a setup? Am I being corralled into a trap?


The thought was quick. Just as quick as the stinging pain which followed his exit from the smoke. He couldn’t even make it down to the tops of the trees before he was attacked! Of course it would be a distraction. No proper hunter would fight without leading their prey into a trap, having them fall into the hunter’s hands. The feeling of taking damage was insatiably dreadful. He grabbed the arrow which was lodged in his wing and pulled it out quickly, tossing it down to the trees below. This situation had only managed to be rather…


“Unacceptable.”


Gahbreal had seen it all, his eyes burning a stark red. There was no denying just how agitated this had made him. His grip only managed to tighten on his weapon and yet he had to remain calm. This was a mission to bring him back, and as much as he wanted to make him pay the proper price that was not an option. Instead he would need to focus even harder than before. As angry as he had managed to become he still hesitated to take his eyes off of his daughter. Le’eroy was certainly always difficult to deal with, but seeing the slight glow in Gabi’s eyes meant the situation had changed for the absolute worst.


Le’eroy was relaxed, more relaxed than anyone could give him credit for. He sat casually on a branch high up in the trees, his legs keeping him steady as he prepared his next arrow to fire. The first shot was successful of course. Even if he had fired the arrow before everything else it would have been a clean hit, but he wanted more than anything to be certain that the arrow would land. He had spotted the wings from quite the distance in the moonlight, and while it did bring worry there was an even greater sense of desire. A sense of wonder as to who or what could be flying through the air!


Possibly something exotic that can be eaten? Some mythical bird maybe? Or from the way it moves a claimant who wants to fight? Heretic? Sinner? Either way it will make for a good hunt now that it will surely be grounded.


He shifted, preparing to lower himself down to the forest floor and yet his eyes instinctively shifted upward. Just out of the corner of his vision he spotted it in the far distance. Those same black wings rising into the air.


“Are they crazy? They’ve already been hit once. Why would they continue to stay in the air, or better yet they’re going even higher up into the air. I don’t trust this.”


He steadied himself after vocalizing his thoughts, raising the bow at the ready and honing his sight onto the target. This didn’t make any sense to him. Normally the average person or creature would hide themselves away to keep from being spotted after taking damage. This person was relying on wings to fly, and one of those wings was now currently damaged slightly. What could they possibly gain from something like this? Were they preparing for an attack? Or maybe they believed they could get high enough to escape his range and spot him from above. Either way it wouldn’t—


“Wait… what?” he muttered as he caught the slightest glimpse of their eyes. "Madness? I have to take them down now before something happens.”


His instincts screamed at him, nudged at his spine as he drew the arrow back and loosed it into the air. He could see it all clearly. The approach as the arrow flew through the air, its spiral that carried it straight to its target as well as the clear mistake of his actions upon the moment it reached the woman who was now clearly visible in the light of the moon. He wanted to say it was impossible, claim it was some sort of fluke or trick, but he could clearly see it now. His sword held plainly in this person’s left hand while the arrow was caught in their right. This didn’t make any sense and yet there was no time to think of that either as for the briefest moment their eyes met.


In the midst of the pouring black rain, all sound drowned away by the heavy beats of water on the ground, he could clearly see the two red orbs peering directly at him. He should have moved and yet now it was too late. There wasn’t any time to think about his next actions or plan anything out, he had to reposition himself. He had almost managed to fall back beneath the treetops yet in the literal blink of an eye the direction of the situation had been decided. Gabi’s eyes closed slowly, a moment of respite and thought before a storm of his own design, and upon opening them again a flash of deep red coated everything within his sight. The rain came to an instant halt as the remaining droplets hit the ground before... silence. The sounds of subtle nature outweighed only by the overbearing wingbeats in the sky above, almost as if a means to giving an omen of inevitable victory. No need to run, no need to hide.


Le’eroy landed quietly on the ground, his hair standing up on end as a smile spread across his face. This was certainly an interesting turn of events. It wasn’t very often he had the chance to fight new claimants and yet this one had come right to him! It was only natural that he be excited and yet there was a feeling of panic he couldn’t shake. Almost as if his mind was being unraveled. He looked about for a moment. Deciding on where he should head next to better prepared for an attack; yet time had already more than ran out. The echoing of flapping wings halting for a moment, silence in the air as the chirping of crickets and the songs of cicadas rose to the surface of his senses.


It’s so quiet. Did they finally land to tend to their wound? If so I can’t waste this opportunity. I should move to a position to ambush them and—


“There you are.”


Perhaps it was the darkness of the night or the flash from earlier doing something to blunt his senses, but the female’s voice was all too real. He could only turn his gaze just quickly enough to spot them. Black wings closing overhead alongside a pair of red eyes glowing in the dead of night. They had landed above him, perched in the trees while keeping as quiet as the grave. Clearly they were skilled in a manner of speaking, but it was the eyes which made him feel uneasy. Almost as if fighting were inevitable. Eyes that were glazed over with a hunger for a violent outcome. Perhaps he could use this moment to get answers from this unknown person.


“Who are you? What business do you have with me—”


“You see, I am not the type to fight. In fact I would go as far as to say I hate it. Hurting others, violence, carnage… pain… it all rather disturbs me.” He paused for a moment, Le’eroy’s sword slipping from his fingers and falling to the ground below. “However, there is a beauty to it. Right? The screams? The helplessness? The look of despair in a person’s eyes when they realize there’s no real escape for them? Ah! It’s absolutely mesmerizing! Wouldn’t you agree?”


Le’eroy had no idea what to make of this. On one end of the spectrum he had come to understand that this was the exact type of person he disliked. The very example of the type of people he believed had no right to exist! His very blood, his soul desired to bear down on them with every once of his power and yet it almost felt like some voice was ushering him to turn and run away. It didn’t make the slightest ounce of sense. Something about them made the drums of war sound off in his ears. The aura of danger resonating through the air. Mesmerizing.


“I don’t know who you are child, but I don’t believe I can allow you to live. Your very existence is a plague, a sin which I cannot allow to continue.”


A vile grin spread across his face, from cheek to cheek, his eyes glowing bright enough leave traces of red lingering in the air. Of course things would manage to turn out this way. Of course it was also to be expected. The woman couldn't keep the chuckle from escaping their throat as he stepped down from the trees and fell softly on the ground with a flap of his wings. The closer he managed to get the more Le'eroy seemed to grow irritated. It was a feeling he hadn't truly felt in a long while yet it did not feel completely right. What was really causing this urge to move? to take action regardless of consequence? Perhaps it was the eyes or the earlier flash of red, but he couldn't even rely on his connection to Lunia anymore. It almost felt as if he was cut off from the moon itself.


“Oh? Well I’m glad you’re thinking that way! I assumed that was the case from the start so you don't need to worry yourself. But say, you won’t mind if I kill you right? I mean, it’s only natural that I kill my attackers so don’t get too upset with me! I'm sure Lunia will forgive me if I bring her your spine or maybe a few ribs! Right?! Right?!”

This was odd. What was happening? He hadn’t expected to run into something like this, but what was he supposed to do now? They were so far away yet they closed the gap so quickly. Running was not a proper option and yet something in the back of his mind was ushering him to run. To move in general. It didn’t make an ounce of sense. This was surely a battle he could win even if he was forced to fight physically alone and without the moon on his side. That much was clear. So why was this voice in his head telling him to flee the area? Move away as quickly as possible? His instincts were completely out of their element for reasons he couldn’t understand.


“Might you be… thinking of running away from me?” Gabi’s voice interrupted his thoughts. “You were, weren’t you?! As if I’d allow that to happen! We’ve already gone too far now. The two of us are locked in a passionate fate now und you’re not going to be leaving until I’m completely satisfied.”


“You must really think lowly of me, child. Perhaps I should teach you a lesson in proper respect.”


“Don’t be so ignorant. My respect for you only goes as far as the quality of your bones. Then again that might not make much sense. You surely have powerful bones, but I don’t respect you at all!”


Disrespect was an understatement! The more he spoke with this woman the more it seemed their life needed to end. What was once a solitary desire to see them fall was now a means to calm the nagging feeling of dread they carried along with them. So long as they lived then the members of his house were in considerable danger. He was an enigma, someone who was clearly troublesome yet managed to remain alive for so long.


A low grow escaped his lips as he barred his fangs, eyes widening and zeroing in on the person before him. His fingers flexed under the pressure of his own anger, muscles becoming more defined as he crouched down low to the earth. He could feel the dirt and stone crumbling beneath his toes as he planted himself in place and steadied his position. How long had it been since he’d felt this way? Since the bells of war chimed in the air? Since his purpose was brought back to the forefront and his desire to cleanse the world was all that mattered again, second only to his mother.


“You’re foolish beyond your years if you think you can speak so bluntly of your desires for sin right in my presence. Just as with every other one before you, I will cleanse your disgusting presence from existence. Prepare yourself apostate.”


“Apostate! How utterly crude of you. You could have at least called me a miscreant or a whore, but then again I suppose your words will fit if placed in the proper way. For instance, I renounce your sense of morality as well as the living essence of the soul. Can you blame me? You have to admit, everyone you’ve ever known would look better if they were dead.”


“That’s far more than enough, your life is moments away from ending.”


“Then shut your damn mouth und end it already. How am I going to take your bones if you’re too afraid to attack?”


He stepped forward, more than resolved. There wasn’t a moment to waste and that at least they could both agree on. It was impossible for Le’eroy to keep the smile away as he grabbed his weapon from the ground beneath them and lifted it to his side. He had almost forgotten how much he enjoyed this! The feeling of combat, the rush of battle! Peace was always nice and wonderful, but extinguishing the embers of conflict always made him feel alive!


He could hear it faintly again, that voice in his head telling him to flee and yet now he could only manage to ignore it. The words didn’t matter so long as he could attack. The weight of his weapon swinging down on his opponent was all that mattered! Fighting to the death and bringing the heretics to Novevu as he had always—


His vision blurred. A snap in his ears loud enough to disorient him. What had happened? Was he attacked? He couldn’t even see anything happening! His eyelids fluttered, doing their best to clear the mess of his vision and it was then that he came to a sudden realization. His weapon had been stopped, but not by his opponent. It was Gahbreal. He could feel his own strength pushing the male back, something that didn’t make sense until he noticed the most damning detail. The Aikekunai’s offhand was gripping tightly onto the length of a gun held by the woman he had been fighting, the barrel was just off from being pointed directly at his face.


“What is happening here?”


“Gabi! Lower your weapon! I will not say it again!”


The woman stood motionless, eyes turning away for a moment before he chose to lower the gun. Le’eroy looked as if he couldn’t wrap his head around the situation yet a single glimpse in Gahbreal’s direction told him that it would be wise to lower his own weapon as well. This didn’t make any sense. Nothing was adding up. How did he get here? When did he get here?


“Gahbreal? What is going on?” the question could barely be voiced before the male grabbed him by the neck and lifted him from the ground.


“Why the hell weren’t you listening to me? You could have been fucking killed! When I say to stop you stop!”


“That was you? I couldn’t even tell you were nearby! It all sounded like… almost like it was all in my head. I thought the voices were my thoughts and yet you say they were yours? This is not making sense! And her weapon. I never even saw it. When was it raised to my head? My movements were real, but everything else surrounding them was not? Explain this to me!”


Gahbreal sighed, he could see it rather clearly now. Le’eroy had been steadily succumbing to the effects of madness. Not only that, but Gabi had been toying with his mind as it was happening. He could see it in his eyes glowing brighter than his own.


He released Le’eroy and took a deep breath, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a cigarette. Normally the lunar claimant would be against this action but seeing his current temperament decided against it. He reached into his pocket and removed a small lighter which he used to light the cigarette before even choosing to speak again. It was already more irritating than it needed to be.


“Lets all just calm down for a moment. Le’eroy, we were sent to bring you back because you cannot, I repeat, you cannot keep running off like this and these most recent events are exactly why! If you were to end up dead here then who knows what would have possibly happened and if you somehow ended up harming Gabi more than you already have then I would have ended you myself. You on the other hand.” He turned to his daughter who stood less than patiently at his side. “You were meant to follow behind me and yet you decided to go off on your own. I know you’re prone to anger, just like I am, but stow it. We cannot function properly if madness and anger are always weighing down on us. Do you understand me?”


Gabi looked him in the eyes for a moment, almost as if wanting to outright reject his request. Then with a deep breath he closed his eyes. Upon opening them they were back to their original blue selves and he was more than displeased with it. Nothing agitated Gabi more than forcing things down like this, but it couldn’t be helped this time around.


“Yes father. I suppose I can listen to this request.”


“Wait a minute. This little girl is your child?”


“Oh fuck. Alright! Le’eroy, you stay fucking put because if I have to hunt you down again I’m taking one of your legs. Gabi, I’ll take you to Eva’s now. I believe you said you were going to meet her after this.”


“If you do not mind.”


“I’ll be waiting right here and I expect answers.”


“Of course you will. C’mon. Let’s go.”


Gahbreal reached his hand out to Gabi who reluctantly took hold of it before they were enveloped in the nostalgic means of travel. Something was off however. Normally it would only take seconds to reach their destination, but this time however they were in the Void for far longer than he had known them to ever be. There was only one real means to how this situation should be handled.


“Why are we still here? What do you want from me?”


“I want you to tell me what the hell that was back there? We’ve talked about your temperament, gone over how you cannot keep doing this, so why did you attack in that manner?”


His teeth pressed together, anger swelling in his heart as he turned away from the Dimea male. Questions like this were why he hated his father so much and yet there was only so little he could do to appease him as well as his own mentality. The answer however was rather clear.


“What? Did you expect me to be attacked und act as if I was not? Maybe you should ask him why he attacked us without warning.”


“I expected you to practice self control! He attacked because he’s Le’eroy! As powerful as he is Little Moon, he is prone to responding to instincts above all else! You are not the same. You have the proper mentality to resist these things so why do you not do so? You should be above everyone else, so why do you not act like it?”


“Because that is not who I am!” hearing his daughter’s raised voice caused him to hesitate to even respond. “You may believe I am some example of stability und control yet that is not what I am! You gave me this strength! You gave me this madness! Is it not right to believe I wouldn’t use them? We barely ever talk due to your work und yet you act as if you know who I am, but you do not know a single fucking thing!”


They stood silently for a moment, almost as if his daughter was awaiting some answer filled with resolve for why things had ended up the way they had. Then again it was never meant to be. He believed his father had failed him while he believed he had truly failed his daughter. Gabi desired a guiding had as a child yet only managed to grow out of that need, Gahbreal wanted after a child he could raise to properly care for themself in an existence as dangerous as their own yet did not manage to give what that child desired. Neither of them could understand one another and it went much deeper than that.


“Gabi, I want you to be safe and happy. I can’t do that if every time I give you a chance to spread your wings you go too far.”


“Too far? How am I going too far? We exist outside of the world of humans und you still act as if we are held to some lowly standard. I am just using my power to do what I can to make myself happy because it is clear that no one else can do that for me... I knew this was a mistake, coming out here with you. You never understand anything beyond your own interests. I’m not the rest of the claimants und I never will be. Now if we are done here I would like to go to my destination. I have wasted enough time already.”


They remained silent for a brief moment, neither of them deciding to look the other in the eyes. The girl’s father wanted to speak, wanted to voice his thoughts, desired after settling things between them so they could truly be a family yet again… but he lacked the heart to do so. He would do anything for the people he claimed as his children, breach the gates to a world unknown if he had to in order to keep them pleased, and yet his own daughter managed to be the most difficult to deal with. In a sense he understood, the curse of his own madness being a part of her just as it was for him, but that did not mean he wanted her to face it on her own.


I don’t know how I can resolve this…


“Alright… let’s go.”


He reached out his hand which his daughter took without hesitation, appearing at Eva’s front door within moments. He watched as his daughter tugged to pull away from his hand and in that very moment a part of himself died as it always had.


He had imagined the days he would spend with his own child. Doing everything in his power to keep them safe regardless of his own wellbeing. DeVian, Stasia, Verin, Eva, Steph, Najya, even Evans were all his precious friends that he felt needed to be watched over as children. While his memories we all vague, the experience and time of his past lives were all real. He was raised and born to be powerful, trained and battered to be unmovable, put through the trails to be a symbol of what an Aikekunai really is. His memories from all of his past lives may have been tampered with, but that did not mean he didn’t know the past. He was made to remember himself after all. He just wanted everyone he had come to know to understand true happiness and peace yet he couldn’t properly find it himself.


He released his daughter's hand as she pulled away, looking at her back the same way he did when she left him and Cyva to live her own life. He remembered teaching her how to fly even when it was a past life who had those wings and not himself. He remembered guiding her forward when she didn’t know how to proceed. He remembered comforting her when there was no one else who could do it. He remembered seeing her for the first time upon her birth and knowing that she would grow into someone he would love forever…


He grasped her hand before it could fully pull away, drawing her into a tight embrace. It was sudden, surprising, too fast for him to push away and yet something was wrong. Why were there tears in his eyes? He didn’t know how to register this, why his father had done something of this manner so suddenly, but something about it felt comforting.


“I’m sorry I wasn’t enough, wolf pup. I tried, but that’s no real excuse… I’m apologize.”


Those words were all he left for his child before the Aikekunai disappeared into the shadows. He stood in the cool air of the night, wind blowing calmly with a cool sting as his hair brushed against his cheeks. He told himself that the words were meaningless. That it didn’t mean anything because there was no point to them and yet, even to the emptiness that surrounded him…


“Don’t go.”


He stuffed the feeling back down, his hand raised ever so slightly and yet he lowered it before the emotion could go too far. Gabi wiped at his eyes to rid them of the salted droplets before making his way to the door. This was a foul mood to say the least. It was always so confusing to be around his father. He wanted to hate him, wanted to resent him, wanted to reject him… but couldn’t!


My dad is too honest. Too easy to understand. What should make me angry doesn’t und that is what makes me the most upset. Does he not see it in me too?


A few knocks on the wooden door and soft footsteps approached from within the building. There were more important things to focus on and yet now his mind was holding onto his father. It only served to make his mind sway and lose focus. He hated this feeling above all else. The door opening however was more than enough to bring him back to the present, to the events that needed to transpire. To the person who was always hidden behind the veil.


The snaps. The clicks. The tearing. It was always so vague yet clear to the senses. Maybe it was because he was the daughter of Gahbreal.


“I was wondering when you would show up. I thought something might have happened.”


Oh Eva. It is easy to see her innocence behind the aggression, und yet that is exactly why I desire after her. At least for the time being.


“That is of no concern. Of course I would not ever face a real challenge from anyone my father could handle.” He paused for a moment, eyes closing as he took a strong whiff from the room. Eva didn’t know what to think of it, and yet he wouldn’t keep her waiting at all. “Now then, as for what I had wanted to speak with you about. We should not have to worry about anyone unsavory listening in on us, correct?”


It was an odd question and certainly one which put Eva on edge. It was true that she lived in a rather normal area although her walls were reinforced to keep her voice to a minimum, if that were at all possible. Even so that would just mean they needed to lower their voices. Why would she ask something like this?


“Of course. Besides, I’ve had my walls personally tended to in order to make sure no one ever gets the fucking chance to spy on my private life.”


“Ah, that is good to know…”  The order Aikekunai looked at her with a questioning look.


Why was that good to know exactly? What did Gabi want to talk about that was so secretive? Then again there was a greater call to her attention. Watching as Gabi’s eyes gave no warning before turning a bright red was more than enough of an equally red flag. There wasn’t even time to question what she was about to do before the woman was upon her and his eyes were engaged with her own. Why was he so fast? Better yet, why was there such a strong feeling of dread hovering over her? There weren’t many times Eva had felt this way, but every time she did it was never good.


Gabi’s hands pressed against her cheeks in the softest manner and yet it felt like immediate danger. She could feel the woman’s breath brushing against her nose, subtle yet strong enough to let off the sweet scent of persimmons. His eyes were filled with madness, even deeper than his father’s, but they were so alluring it was distressing. She couldn't even smell the familiar scent of the house of darkness on him. It was only the smell of flowers and fruits.


“H-hey, what are you—”


“Hush dear. Just let me look at you for a moment.”


Eva’s face lit up a bright red, every curve of Gabi’s body pressing against her own in a way that was more passionate than she had anticipated. What was going on?! It wasn’t intimate at all, rather it felt abnormally close to having her all absorbed into the moment. Almost as if he were drawing her in. She had to break this silence and escape his grip! If this went on for too long it felt almost like her mind would unravel.


“You know, just because I like you doesn’t mean you can so casually compare our bodies like this. Are you trying to prove how much more womanly you are than me?”


“Oh don’t be so shy. Besides, I personally don't care for all of that. I couldn’t be bothered to care what everyone calls me. I'm a woman clearly, and far more beautiful than most, but if I desire to be called differently then who will deny me that? I can be whatever I desire.”


This was good. In this moment she could learn as much as she could from this enigma of a claimant. Perhaps there were other questions she could have him answer. For the first time since they had come in contact with one another he was speaking far more freely. The woman's German accent was even becoming distorted, a mix between his father's and mother's now.


“Are you saying that you answer to no one? If you have so much freedom then why would you ever listen to the ancients?”


Gabi smiled, his wings raising into the air and folding over the two of them. It almost seemed as if he had figured out what she was attempting, and yet he still chose to answer the questions. What was he trying to accomplish with this?


“Well I wouldn’t say I listen to them out of my own volition. There's a reason I choose to do so. Just as you do, Aikekunai. Even with the power to turn the tides of the world when used correctly you still choose to do what aligns with your interests. What those interests might be however, that is an entirely different story.”


“Are you saying you have interests that give you reason to follow their rules? Or are you saying that it’s because of those rules that your interests exist?”


That question caused a smile to break Gabi’s previously more normal demeanor. His cheeks now lit up a subtle pink as his breathing deepened in anticipation and excitement.


“Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful! I knew I could count on you to be exactly what I was looking for!”


“Huh? What the hell are you talking about? Sorry to disappoint you, but I’m already taken.”


“Oh no, dear Eva. That’s not what I meant. I believe it’s time we talk seriously about our future together, but first I’ll have to take care of a little rat who thinks they can hide from me.”


Eva raised an eyebrow, wondering whatever he could possibly be talking about. The situation had been so tense it was difficult to focus on anything outside of her company. Then it clicked. The situation more dire than it had previously been. How long had he known? How long was Gabi playing the fool and for that case, how long had he been playing along with everything around them? His level of perception must be insane if his words were to be taken seriously, but then it was no longer a matter of ‘if they could be taken seriously’ and rather ‘how could they solve this problem’. Everything seemed so loosely gathered when he was around, difficult to pinpoint anything specific on his mind and yet his eyes gave away his intentions.


“Koi! Don’t!”


Her brother was unwilling to listen, understanding the situation completely as he leapt into action. When he had been noticed was something he didn’t know, but what he did know for certain was that his sister was currently in what seemed like immediate danger. He did not bother taking his weapon in hand, did not bother doing anything more than moving forward and speaking the words he would need to render Gabi unable to act.


“St—”


“Magnificent.”


His reaction time was unbelievable! Before Koven could even finish the single word he chose Gabi had turned his eyes in his direction entirely and with a red flash enveloping that entire side of the room his order no longer worked. There was a slight moment of panic, and yet that did not stop his momentum as he charged forward. In that short period of time he regretted not drawing his weapon, but his hands would surely be enough to take this person down regardless of who they were.


He reached forward, an attempt at a simple yet effective grapple. The wings would be in the way but if he could manage it then there would be no chance for him to escape, or at least that was what he had hoped before realizing just how outmatched he was. He had missed completely, Gabi somehow slipping right past his grip and awaiting him patiently with open arms. He couldn’t even move aside! He had been in too much of a hurry to protect his sister and was completely off balance. If this person planned to end his life then he was helpless to stop them.


“You’re absolutely precious.” The words were confusing to say the least, but what was even more confusing happened to be the embrace Koven found himself pulled into with his head now resting against their chest. “I had a feeling you’d come out to play if I made things seem as hostile as possible. You shouldn’t try to hide from me, dear.”


“Eva? What’s happening?”


“That’s why I tried to stop you, fucking idiot! She was making it far too obvious that you were her target.”


“How did she even know I was here? I was so well hidden, it doesn’t make any sense!”


Gabi released him to which he quickly stepped back, causing him to receive a saddened look from the woman who could only gift him a simple pout. It might have made him feel slightly bad if he wasn’t also being stared down by a pair of red eyes. It was far too unsettling and the level of discomfort it pressed onto his heart was only growing with time.


“You weren’t with me when we went to Gahbreal’s place, but this is Gahbriogyva. Somehow it slipped past us that he already had a daughter of his own. It's quickly becoming clear as to why however.”


“Indeed. Und as fun as it would be to play ignorant forever I rather enjoy pulling people out into the open. Eva is a perceptive little kitten herself, so I had a feeling she knew you were around. I just wanted to see if I could draw you out into the open und I was not disappointed.”


“You’d do something so haphazard? What if I had killed you? If I had a weapon that you could not fight against?”


The mere mention of it caused the woman to blush violently. He shifted back across the room to Eva who was still sitting casually in her position. This time however he sat himself down at her side and placed his fingers on the tip of her chin. Gabi moved her head ever so slightly to face himself before giving her a smile that displayed just how much pleasure the woman had been receiving from this situation they had been forced into.


“Tell me Eva, do you think he could’ve killed me? Could you imagine it? My very life being extinguished right before your very eyes?! Doesn’t it make you want to see it for yourself?! Ah! If only it could be so! I believe I’d fall for you if you were capable, but as of now I’m only capable of falling for myself.”


“Gabi, tell me something… are you under the effects of madness?”


Eva chose to question him instead of answering his question. By now things were already going in a direction she wouldn’t have liked. She had hoped to influence Gabi in a way to have him join her in accomplishing her goals. Meant to explain things properly so that he would understand and yet now? Now it just seemed as if he had plunged the entire situation into chaos. It was a simple question, one she already knew the answer to, but more than anything she wanted to hear his own answer.


“Madness? I’d like to deny it, but then again I love the thought of it. If I’m tethered so closely to madness then who’s to say this isn’t just who I am? Everyone always acts as if madness is so simple to understand, but then what of the concept that I see? Aren’t we all a little mad? Doesn’t the very thought make you writhe with pleasure? My father und everyone else would have you believe madness is some terrible thing eating away at the soul. I however am Dimea to my core und I would sooner believe that madness itself is the element of my home, darkness secondary.”


This had managed to take quite the turn. What Eva had once thought was a harmless situation was quickly devolving into something that couldn’t be controlled. Madness was an understatement, this girl was crazy at best! Then again it was a crazy she found herself wanting for herself even more. Looking into Gabi’s eyes, this woman who happened to be the secret child of someone she knew, all she could see was something familiar and nostalgic. Something she also found a great love within. The swirling waves of chaos.


This woman, a person that so many people believed they knew, standing right before her fawning over their own ideals of madness. Surely he was a claimant belonging to Xainayne. The only reason Eva could really see the ancient not wanting to put him to proper use was due to the reaction of one wolf who was certainly against the very thought of his daughter fighting in any battle without him by their side. She needed him, wanted him to fight for her and yet that only raised the question as to how she could make it happen? The question swirled in her head as she eyed Gabi, his wings fluttering in a simple, excited motion yet without stirring up any wind. What could possibly be used as a means to please him enough to have him join her side as well as gain an affinity toward one another that he wouldn’t be capable of resisting? Something she could be certain he'd desired.


“You seem as if you have something on your mind. Let me hear it.”


She disliked how Gabi seemed to almost know what she was thinking, but that was only a means to reveal his level of perception. That being said it made things perfect. If she were going to make him truly hers, as with all of her mother’s followers, then she would need to appeal to his desires directly. Not say something he’d expect, rather say something he wouldn’t expect from her. Something no one would expect from her.


“Gabi, how would you like to fight me? Right here, right now. No abilities. Just our physical strength. I'd like to see which one of us is stronger.”


Koven thought it was an absolute mistake to ask such a request, Eva believed it would be fruitless in the end yet saw no other way. Even so Eva was surprised to see the reaction she managed to receive. It was a guess, a hope really, an assumption that Gabi would be the exact opposite of her father and it seemed like a foolish inquiry, but it was her own perception that made it seem like the proper choice. When the red in Gabi's eyes deepened, her smile something you could only expect to see on the face of someone who had completely thrown away their caution entirely, that was more than enough of an answer. In Eva's mind she had discovered something about the woman that would prove to be invaluable. In Gabi's mind? Saying she was at the peak of euphoria wasn't nearly enough to properly describe how she felt.

"I didn't expect you to move so fast!" Gabi spoke as she moved forward, his lips nearly pressing against her own. "If you're okay with it then who am I to resist after you chose to give me your all so suddenly?"

“Could you stop teasing me?! For fuck’s sake, I’m not so easily flustered.”


The brunette blurted out as she pushed her company away. Gabi did not mind, rather found it amusing nonetheless. It would have been too easy if it was going to be so simple to get under her skin or through her guard. The concept of friends did not ever properly register with him, and in that sense everyone managed to only be treated either like a pet or an equal. Of course no one would have a seat above her own position.


“If you insist. However, if you’re serious, then we should do this right away!”


“Not so fast. If we’re going to do this then we do it legitimately. No killing blows, no fatal wounds. We stop right before connecting and whoever get’s the first takedown is declared the victor. It would be far too easy if we were going after each other’s lives.”


That was a lie. While it would be easy enough if she were prepared, no doubt, this was an entirely different situation. She had no clue how Gabi fought, no clue how he reacted to  damage and absolutely no proper measure for just how strong he really was, physically or elementally. So far she knew he had the wings resting on his back and his eyes which flashed a red that could disable a person’s abilities, or at least that was what it seemed like. It only served to make her even more pleased with herself that she mentioned the fight would be purely physical. It would have ended up in a disadvantage for her if that weren’t the case.


“So that’s how you want to do this? Fine. While it certainly will be less fun I can’t rightfully say you’re wrong. It’ll certainly give us more time to feel each other out. Shall we do this outside?”


“Wait... outside of my house?”


“Of course! We certainly can’t destroy your home. Besides, we’ll need the space. I’m certain this will be a fun fight!”


Eva stood by, looking as cautious as ever. It brought a smile to Gabi’s face. How things had managed to go this way was doing him a service. He had expected to end up forcing her to fight him, but somehow she brought it up herself! Simply thinking about how forward she was sent a shiver up the woman’s spine. He could feel his body heating up with excitement, something he hadn’t felt in a long time, as his eyes remained locked on his newest sparring partner. How would she respond? How would she react? When she had suggested it he had believed she would desire a fight at a later date and yet now he didn’t know for certain how far she was willing to go. Most other claimants were so uptight, even if they knew who he was they still refused to challenge him or accept a challenge. Eva however proved to be just what he had been searching for.


“I guess that’ll work. It’s not like anyone is going to bother annoying me afterwards anyway. Just in case… Koi!” the calling of his name caught his attention, his face turning from his phone to meet her disapproving gaze. “You will make sure no one interferes. Just keep any bystanders away.”


“Sure. I can do that. You know this is a stupid idea though, right? You should probably think things through a bit more before making decisions like this.”


“Oh there’s no need to be so hard on her. She’s simply following her instincts just as you did not too long ago.”


Was that an insult? He couldn’t even tell! This entire situation was in poor taste and with every passing moment it seemed his sister was digging a deeper hole for herself. He slid his phone into his pocket and allowed a sigh to escape his lips before giving his sister his full attention.


“I didn’t ask for your opinion, I gave you an order. Just stand by and make certain no one gets in our way. Do that and keep out of sight. This won’t take too long.”


She spoke as she made her way to the front entrance, swinging the door open as Gabi followed close behind her. He made certain to turn back to Koi with a look that suggested he didn’t need to worry, but that only made things worse for him. There wasn’t a chance in hell that he’d trust this woman and that would persist for all time. Gabi on the other hand didn’t care at all. He didn’t plan to kill Eva or even hurt her at all so this was going in his favor, she just saw her as another girl who he could get along with. Then again it was his turn now to get what he desired from her out of this. Him pausing for a moment as they stepped out onto the empty road. She could feel the cool night’s breeze rushing through his feathers as he crossed his arms and looked to the sky.


“How about we make this interesting. A stipulation of sorts between the two of us with this.”


This is exactly what she had wanted. Eva wasn’t expecting him to come forward with it, but now she could certainly allow him to feel as if it were his idea.


“We could do that. What kind of stipulation do you have in mind?”


This was exactly where he wanted this to be, how he wanted this to go. It wasn’t as if he didn’t understand the risks. Rather he didn’t care for the risks.


“A simple winner gets their desire. If I win then you introduce me to your mother. I feel as if she would be a person I can get along with well.”


“That will work. However, if I win then I will require something of equal weight.” By now things had managed to go exactly where Eva desired for it to go. Now she just had to seal the deal with her own side, “if I win you will belong to me. Your body, your soul, your everything will be mine.”


The mere mention of her stipulations almost made it impossible for Gabi to register his surroundings. Eva, this girl she had just recently met, was everything he desired in an equal. Those words were exactly what he had wanted from her. To hear the bold demands that no one else was nearly capable of uttering in his direction. His breathing sped up, eyes glazing over as her cheeks became almost as red as her irises. With all of the mishaps the day brought, this moment was more than enough to give him the feeling of pleasure he had desired. And as the woman’s breaths sped up he couldn’t resist throwing all caution to the wind.


“That’s exactly what I was hoping to hear. That confidence. That audacity! Ah! It makes me want to keep you all to myself… make you all mine, but that wouldn’t be realistic at all… I accept your terms. Now let’s fight before lose this wonderful feeling coursing through my body.”


“You almost talk as if you’re getting off on this, Gabi.”


“And is that wrong? Don’t you feel the rush as well? The possibility of losing something so important to you? Doesn’t it make your body heat up?”


“If you mean the feeling of anticipation then I suppose I can understand. Then again I’m  only pleased when the world is in the palm of my hand, and I wouldn’t dare settle for anything less. That is what it means to be royalty after all.”


Koven watched as the two of them conversed, their own interests clashing in a way that was mesmerizing yet also difficult to fathom. Both of them seemed to be the type of person who would manipulate and move others into doing what they desired. Both seemed to enjoy the thought of conflict although Gabi clearly wasn’t ashamed to hide the pleasure it caused them. Eva had managed to change attitude rather quickly, acting in a way befitting of her royal status. Gabi seemed to be fawning over the thought of having their all taken away from them. From an outside perspective they were both giants in the world of perception, but even more so they were terribly alike in terms of violent auras.


Perhaps it would be best if he phoned in someone who would prove to do a better job of handling things if it went too far. Then again he didn’t believe his sister would allow it. How long had it been since he’d seen her so adamant about something? Acting as she saw fit in a manner that put her in line with her destiny? She rarely ever chose new subordinates and instead used the ones her mother left behind for her, but something about Gabi had managed to draw her in. It seemed the same could be said about the woman herself.


“Alright you two, the area is clear. The rules are simply as you set them to be. This is a simple spar and a takedown will result in a victory. Stopping before your fatal blows is the most important rule here. Grapples, kicks and punches are all allowed. I will step in if I must. It also goes without saying that weapons are allowed. Do you both understand?”


“Let’s get this started already. The sooner we begin the sooner we can finish this up.”


“I’m ready at any time. Whenever you say the word, dear.”


He watched as Eva opened her palm upward before her face, an intricately crafted boot knife forming from what seemed like the dust in the air. It was a weapon that Koven had almost never seen her use, but that just meant she would be taking this a little seriously. It was silver with an edge of well sharpened bronze, the grip composed of pearl and jade. The guard was the most detailed part of the weapon and made in the shape of a blooming lotus. It was the weapon given to her by Nammay and one she truly cared for, even if it wasn’t her real personal weapon. Gabi on the other hand… equipped nothing?


“Are you prepared, Gabi?” Koven asked to which the woman merely smiled in his direction.


“There’s no need to worry. It’s better if I don’t use my weapon. It’s a little dangerous so my hands will be far more than enough.”


The words were simple and yet they had managed to make Eva more upset than she had anticipated.


“Are you trying to make a fool out of me? I am not so weak that I would need any claimant to handicap themselves for me, nor am I willing to hold back against someone who forgoes their own weapon. If you don’t plan to fight me with your all then you shouldn’t have agreed to fight at all.”


It was a simple display. A means to have him draw whatever weapon he would decide on. She really just wanted to see what weapon he would equip for the most part, but it was also a legitimate moment of anger. Did Gabi really believe she would not be capable of defending herself against him if he had a weapon? If so then that was a clear insult she could not stand for. Gabi on the other hand did not seem pleased. The woman looked rather agitated which was not the goal, but her eyes gave off a slight glint of submission as her right hand was extended off to the side.


“Fine… but don’t say I didn’t warn you.”






“I don’t know how you could have allowed this to happen.”


“I didn’t allow anything. Gabi has been avoiding me for years, I couldn’t have guessed someone would introduce her to Evagelyne of all people. That might have possibly been the worst person she could have ever met.”


Xainayne laughed at Gahbreal’s clear distress, an act that did not make him happy int the slightest. It had taken longer than he had anticipated to explain things to Le’eroy and even longer to explain why he had to make sure he told no one of her existence. If Eva already had the chance to meet her he’d have to do more to insure she didn’t run into anyone else that might pose a problem. One of those others mainly DeVian. She specifically was well behaved, but it was her willfulness that made her a dangerous friend for Gabi. A desire.


“You know you won’t be capable of controlling her forever Gahbreal. Gahbriogyva is more than capable of taking care of herself.”


“I know that, but that is exactly why I am worried. Gabi isn’t like everyone thinks she is. I know my daughter well, and none of this is going to do her any good.”


“It’s that attitude that makes her dislike you so much. She’s never going to desire being closer to you if every time you two are together it’s a matter of you attempting to control her. If you rob her of the freedom she craves then she’ll never come to like you.”


“That’s not the problem here!” he stopped himself. Lowering his voice as he leaned back in his seat. “I’m certain that my daughter has kept things as vague as possible, that’s just the type of person she is when wanting to keep things to herself. However I would do anything for Gahbriogyva, and I mean literally anything. That being said there are some things I cannot condone and she is not so easy to read.”


He stood to his feet and moved to pour the ancient a glass of wine, taking the rest of the bottle for himself before he chose to elaborate. It was always difficult to describe his daughter’s temperament, that was exactly why he hadn’t chosen to explain it to anyone other than his wife, but putting it into reasonable words was a task of extreme caution. If he said the wrong things then she might be seen as a threat that was too dangerous. If he didn’t say things with a level of sensitivity then it would make other believe he viewed her as some sort of problem. Either way it was unavoidable now.


“My mother and father held power in high regard. Not strength, but power. While you raised me in your own way they raised me to be powerful. My mother would often say, ‘Tsuyo-sa wa dare demo eru koto ga dekiru monodesu. Chikara ga areba, yama o ugokashi tari, sora o hikisai tari suru koto mo dekimasuga,-ryoku wa arimasu ka? Chikara wa tsuyoi mono to fumetsu no mono o wakeru monodesu. Tsuyo-sa no aru seikyū-sha kara no 1-kai no dageki wa tatakai no nagare o kaeru koto ga dekimasuga, kenryoku no aru seikyū-sha kara no onaji dageki wa sekai o kaeru koto ga dekimasu.’ It always stuck with me, even after they no longer associated themselves with me. Their loyalty to you and Phita has always been unparalleled, but they made certain that I understood strength did not equate to power. It’s a concept that many people don’t really understand and I always believed it would be my duty to teach the same to my own children, but Gabi already knew.”
(Strength is something that anyone can obtain. With strength you can move a mountain or tear the sky apart even, but power? Power is what separates the strong from the immortal. A single blow from a claimant with strength can turn the tide of a battle, but the same from a claimant with power can change the world.)


“What do you mean by that? Wouldn’t that be a good thing if she were intelligent enough to understand the lesson before receiving it?”


“Normally yes, but this was when I had first started beginning her training. I asked her if she wanted to learn how to fight like me and her response was something I’d never forget. ‘I don’t need to learn how to fight. I just need to gain more power. I’ll get stronger on my own, but can you teach me how to be as powerful as Xainayne?’ I couldn’t understand where the words had come from.”


“Well at least she has good taste. If she were searching for a good measure of power to compare herself to then why not an ancient?”


“She was five at the time, dad. Up until that point she had been only going to school within the human realm and being taught basic things about the duties of claimants by Cyva. The way she said it was almost like someone had put the ideas of it into her mind. More frighteningly she made true on her words. I rarely ever got the time to train her normally because she often trained herself. Cyva would often help her with things that couldn’t be done alone but physically she worked on her own strength and agility. All I taught her was my family’s style of combat with the longsword and the hand to hand techniques you taught me. Then she started acting out.”


He took a long drink from the bottle, a sigh escaping his lips once he finished and placed the empty bottle down on a small side table. He lifted his right hand and a glove made from darkness formed over his hand. It clung close to his skin and with its appearance his eyes steadily began to glow brighter. The red was solemn and calm, without any malice or anger behind them.


“Madness for most is seen as a form of curse. Even for me I find it unpredictable and capable of causing great damage. Too much of it can drive a person to the very depths of insanity and if it goes too far it will easily drive a person to death. The body cannot easily handle it however it functions differently for me and it is the same for her. We can resist it rather well and it is due to it being a part of us. We can tolerate so much it is rather vague just how much it would take to be our end. Because of this we have to manage it properly to assure it doesn’t overtake us. For me that management comes from my wife and my axe which steadily absorbs darkness and madness from my so long as it is within close proximity. Gabi on the other hand just has full control of the madness itself, easily just turning it off and turning it back on.”


“I don’t understand you Gahbreal. All of these things you’ve been listing sound like positives. The girl is clearly quick to understand and catch on to what’s important, a fast learner as well as efficient with her training, even going as far as to being capable of omitting the dangers of your greatest weakness. With the amount of stress madness has caused your past lives I would believe you’d be nothing be proud to find she has the ability to resist something you cannot—”


“Just listen Xainayne, I’m trying to explain this properly and it is difficult in few words… Gabi chooses madness over being sane! She has full control over just how much madness effects her and because of this she can hide it indefinitely, but she chooses to remain filled with it! At all times it is a constant! Eventually we had to begin keeping a close eye on her because we would send her off to school and she would return home with human bones. She would raise her levels of madness on purpose just to feel it and it was clear to see just how much she enjoyed the feeling. When she became old enough I had her choose a weapon and had Nammay give it the same function as mine yet far more effective. She realized its purpose and pushed the thing to its limits, filling it with so much madness it’s almost capable of being described as a cursed item. The only person I know who can even touch the thing without being hastily encompassed in madness is Gabi herself. Then one day she requested we spar with our real weapons to which I refused.”


Xainayne laughed, as serious as the situation was for his claimant. Just the thought of his own daughter, or anyone for that matter requesting that the two of them fight sounded completely ridiculous. Of course he would never do it. Even if he ordered the two of them to fight himself that might have just ended with Gahbreal’s instant betrayal. It was clear to all of the ancients that anything which would cause the Aikekunai to battle with his daughter would only end with his rebellion and he had made certain to make it known.


“Of course you wouldn’t fight her! As if she’d receive a decent challenge anyway. You’d go so easy on her it would hardly be anything that anyone could classify as a real match.”


“Well she attacked me anyway. When I refused she grew impatient and went on the assault, holding nothing back at all. It was horrible yet a good situation which revealed two important things. One being just how dangerous Gabi’s hands had become. I don’t know what training she forced herself through, but she was more than capable of deflecting and stopping my axe with her bare hands.”


“You fought her with your real weapon? What were you thinking?”


“There was no time to think before I was forced to be on the defensive. The plan was to take her down quickly to stop the fight, but then it became clear that it wasn’t something I could do because Gabi was stronger than me at the time. That was when she was around thirteen years old I believe. She would disappear for days to train herself and I still don’t know what she was doing during that time, but whatever it was had to be beyond straining on the body because she matched me in speed and overwhelmed me in strength. Not to mention that she was better at fighting. It was almost as if she knew what I was going to be doing before I did it. I haven’t sparred with her since, but I’m certain she’s only gotten stronger with time. I should have known something was wrong when she chose the name of her weapon and told it to us, but I was just happy she was happy at the time.”


“Didn’t she name the weapon Knochensammler?”


“Yeah. Bone Collector. I should have be able to tell from there, but I believed she just thought it sounded cool or some shit. Then she actually started collecting bones with the thing. It started with animal bones, then upgraded to human bones. Cyva believes she’ll eventually grow out of her habits… I think it’s only going to keep getting worse.”






Her breaths were steady, slow, filled with a sense of regret. Perhaps it was a poor choice to make the request, but Eva wasn’t prepared to pass up on the opportunity to see this all through. Then again it was plain to see just how dangerous the situation had become in mere seconds. She wanted to see Gabi’s weapon for herself as she had recalled hearing about it back at Gahbreal’s home. Seeing it up close however? It looked as if the thing had no purpose outside of tearing its opposition apart.


A plume of darkness had appeared over his hand and all that was left behind was a gauntlet that reached up to his elbow. It was made from the same material as her father’s axe although its color was slightly bluish in comparison. It looked to be designed in a manner of layered plate, leaving no compromising positions in its makeup. Compared to the average gauntlet however each finger ended with a sharpened claw, reminiscent of what seemed to be the claws of some mythical beast. Serrated, curved ever so slightly and sharpened enough to reflect the moonlight if hit at the right angle. It almost seemed as if the very air around it was heavy, weighed down by some unseen thing and nearly the entire thing was stained in the crimson of human blood even though it looked to be in perfect condition due to constant maintenance.


“I’m ready when you are, dear. Try not to disappoint me. I’m counting on you to fill me with excitement, and keep in mind that if you win this I’ll belong to you.”


“I haven’t forgotten. Now that you’re serious we can get this settled. I won’t be going easy on you just because you’re Gahbreal’s daughter.”


“That’s good. I was hoping it would actually make you want to fight me even harder.”


Eva prepared herself, put up her guard while keeping her eyes glued to the woman before her. Gabi looked as relaxed as ever with that same smile on his face which only grew in intensity as the anticipation built up in his chest. He could feel the heat in his bosom as the time for combat came ever closer and there was no possible way he could hide the desire for it all. How long had it been since he had the chance to fight another claimant? Possibly a few years since anyone actually chose to fight instead of give up or run? This situation was absolutely perfect, and against an Aikekunai no less! The stance he chose to take was familiar in Eva’s eyes, the same as Gahbreal’s yet far more wild in comparison.


Koven could see just how much of a mistake this was, watching them both closely as he stepped back to a good distance to assure he remained out of the way. He’d certainly need to make an arrangement in order to insure things remained in good taste, but he would need to do so in a manner which would not attract his sister’s ire. How could she always manage to be such a pain in times like this.


“Alright you two, complete your preparations. Try not to push yourselves too hard… begin!”

Koven could feel it. The tension in the air was thick. So much so that anyone incapable of grasping the situation might find it difficult to even move. The fight had been declared and preparations were set, but the two woman still stood motionless with their eyes pinned on one another. You could hear the wind howling, so quiet the dropping of a needle could be heard. As much as he wanted to move position and gain some distance he didn’t want to miss a single moment. All of the buildup to this simple match and yet they had put so much weight on it. Certainly he couldn’t just move haphazardly. A single misstep could be the distraction that causes one to fall.


Eva could see it clearly, the hunger in Gabi’s eyes. It was almost as if they wanted nothing more than to pounce forward and yet decided upon holding back. Perhaps waiting to give her the first move? Or relying on counters perhaps? No, that was not the case. If she had learned to fight from Gahbreal then her stance may have been off, but the core concept was the same. The moment the opportunity arose she would bombard her with attacks one after the other. Powerful and difficult to manage. What Gabi didn’t know however was that she had gotten the chance to fight at Gahbreal’s side on multiple occasions and knew his fighting style well. This wouldn’t be a first time experience seeing it up close and that would be the downfall of allowing her to attack first, but she also wasn’t so haphazard.


Taking note of how Gabi was in fact no Aikekunai she did not expect too much of them. She trained against and fought alongside warriors of the highest class and claimants of great standing. In truth her brother was the real Aikekunai between the two of them and yet she was capable of overpowering him regardless of that fact. She was raised to be capable of that at the very least after all. That was why for the slightest moment she chose to hold back on her approach.


Running through her mind was the thought of how very few times she’d taken things seriously in a fight, but that had to be done. Going all out would only manage to out her true potential as well as the web she had spun around herself over all these years. She was Eva, the Aikekunai of order, and yet at the same time she was not. She did not prefer the dancelike movements in combat that Gahbreal used or anyone else for that matter. Battles were meant to be won with raw power, a power that cannot be stopped or combatted. The same type of power her mother held onto and the same type of power she was destined to inherit. The power that was meant to follow the name of Yvaxiphoria Vall!


…and it was for that reason she chose instead not to hold back at all.


She pushed forward quickly, watching the change of expression on Gahbriogyva’s face. It was almost as if they hadn’t expected her to be as fast as she was, but that would only prove to be her own mistake. However it did not last long before the ominous smile grasped her expression again. Even in this situation she found the means to enjoy herself and it was frightening. Eva raised her dagger on approach, moving to strike from her right with the item yet, right before impact, the weapon was thrown through the air. An elaborate feint, one which aimed to make it seem the attack would connect when in fact it was a pass to the opposing hand to attack from the opposite side. Effective in most combat scenarios and with Gabi’s lack of reaction it seemed this bout would be over quickly.


The echoing of metal striking metal screeched through the air and for a moment Eva was clearly confused. She could see the gauntlet raised to intercept the strike, but for the life of her could not recall ever seeing their hand being raised. Was it some trick? Or was Gahbriogyva simply that fast? She didn’t allow it to slow her down, twisting her body for a kick to continue applying pressure. This at least caused them to step back in order to avoid the strike. That being said it wasn’t a good thing. The backstep was nothing more than a means to give leverage to their quick charge forward. They were fast, too fast for his title.


They first chose to strike at her with his bare left fist, something that Eva could easily move aside, and yet the amount of force needed to do so was far more than expected. It would make sense that their attacks would be quick since Gahbriogyva fought with fists and feet, but the amount of strength behind their strikes was something she hadn’t felt before. It almost reminded her of a scenario she had seen play out in the past but there wasn’t any time to focus. Thinking had to be kept to a minimum now as she was caught exactly where she did not want to be. Directly in the path of a flurry of attacks. She knew it would be difficult to deal with Gahbreal’s fighting style just from watching him fight time and time again, his entire goal to bear down on his targets with a series of never ending strikes, but it was far more troublesome than she had imagined.


Koven watched with a great sense of anticipation. He could remember it faintly from his past lives, or at least the combat experience, but this seemed like a scale of combat that wasn’t meant to be currently happening, It explained why Eva seemed to want them so badly, but perhaps his sister hadn’t managed to see the scale of this person’s power. Seeing her get pushed back was troubling to say the least.


Eva continued stepping back and to the sides, avoiding attacks by hairs and brushes as Gahbriogyva continued stepping forward with strikes from all directions. Eva was in the midst of combat so it was possible she didn’t realize it, but Koven had seen the girl’s father fighting alongside his sister on multiple occasions. Comparing the two side by side with his sight alone it was clear that while Gahbriogyva’s stance was wilder her attacks were far more balanced and steady. In a way it seemed as if they were a better outright fighter than Gahbreal with the same style.


It was difficult to tell who would win, Eva avoiding the attacks expertly while Gabi refused to let up. Neither of them had managed to land any blows but that could be summed up to the two of them still sizing one another up. Then a change. Gahbriogyva’s left foot stomped forward with great force, the ground cracking beneath its weight as the palm of her left hand slammed against Eva’s stomach. The attack didn’t seem like much at all and yet it had managed to send the girl reeling back. This was the first time he had ever seen his sister struggle so much, the first time he had actually seen anyone land a blow on her, the first time he had ever seen her spit out a ball of multicolored blood onto the ground. Even so she still managed to smile.


This was exactly why she wanted to fight her, the exact reason Gabi could look her in the eyes and see someone who was an equal. It wasn’t very often she could find someone who enjoyed conflict as much as her, but it was easy to tell the moment she saw her. The look in her eyes, the way she spoke. No matter how much she wanted to hide it the truth was plain as the moon I the sky above. As clear as the separation between darkness and light, chaos and order!


“Don’t back down now! Let’s get as serious as we possibly can, und fight until we’re both satisfied!”


“As if I would ever back away from a fight. On my name and title by birth, the princess of the claimants will never waver.”


They both charged forward, the battle itself taking a step past what it once was. Gahbriogyva had begun moving in a manner that boasted a mix between standard martial arts, dance and something reminiscent of almost tribal conduct. Yvaxiphoria moved quickly, accurately, her movements fast yet her strikes even faster. Where Gahbriogyva would throw a punch or kick, Yvaxiphoria would dodge and strike back. Sparks flew through the air every time their weapons clashed, the wind roaring around them as they tide of the world shifted and swirled about them.


Nothing else mattered outside of the fight at this point and that was clear to Koven. His sister’s stance had completely changed to that of one she would use with a sword. Gabi stepped forward and was quickly met with a horizontal strike so fast she couldn’t even duck beneath it or step aside. The only option available was to step back to which the feeling of the blade grazing her cheek made the woman pause for a moment. Her tongue slipped from her mouth and with a taste of the nearly black liquid seeping from the wound her eyes spelled the pleasure she had received from this damage.


“This is exactly what I had wanted. I can’t count on anyone else, it has to be you. Someone with a soul as jet black as my own.” As she spoke her eyes lit up more and more, the red growing into something past Gahbreal’s, past Hellfire’s. It was deadly of its own accord. “Ah! I love it… I don’t think I can hold back anymore.”


She took up her stance, the pressure she applied onto herself so strong her feet shattered and sunk into the concrete. Yvaxiphoria watched as for the first time this night the woman flexed her muscles and spread her wings. She recalled her earlier statement in which she referred to her as an angel, but seeing just how serious she had become and how unhinged her personality had managed to get… perhaps it would have been best to name her fallen instead.


Gahbriogyva pushed onward, bringing the fight even further into the madness she craved. Her approach was fast, faster than before, her strike even faster. Yvaxiphoria had barely managed to get out of the way and even still it felt as if the very air surrounding her fists were dealing damage. There was no longer any margin remaining for error. Her dagger slicing through the air as if trying to sever the woman’s soul as she attempted to dodge these strikes that looked as if they meant to shatter her entire existence to ash.


Her feet moved forward with power, strikes with force behind each of them. Dodging was becoming more and more difficult as time went on and at some point she noted Yvaxiphoria choosing to instead switch her entire guard. She had referred to herself as a princess and seeing the way she chose to wield her weapon made it all the more believable. She fought more like a knight than someone who should be wielding a dagger. She would strike out with her fists and instead of moving away she held her ground, using the flat of the dagger to deflect her strikes. How she could even manage it with such a small weapon was beautiful in Gahbriogyva’s eyes, but that did not mean she had made a terrible mistake. The distance was what made this battle favorable for her and now she had chosen to willingly stay within close proximity.


Sweat rolled down Koven’s cheeks as he continued to watch the battle like a hawk, refusing to miss the slightest movement. His sister had chosen to refuse backing away and instead meant to close the distance between the two. She would have been at better odds if she had a longsword instead, but her opponent was not going to allow a move like that to throw them off clearly.


The fight had become something the likes of which he could only describe as a dance of physical beauty. The way their steps intertwined with one another, them choosing to step back or approach in sync as they would switch between attack and defense. Yvaxiphoria fought as if her life was truly on the line and it was clear to see just how serious she had gotten. Gahbriogyva returned those feelings in kind, her fists speeding up with the shortened distance and her expression more serious than ever. Even still they both shared the same smile that could only be made by two people who were deep in the clutches of euphoria.


Yvaxiphoria lashed out with her weapon, thrusts missing by unrecognizably short distances or slicing the top layer of the woman’s skin. Her kicks would connect every so often or hit her guard, causing them to shift ever so slightly to the side. Gahbriogyva smiled horridly as her punches flew out one after the other, some being deflected and countered while other hit their mark and caused her opponent to step about and readjust to compensate. Her knees and feet were weapons of a different caliber, if not blocked making for an effective means to push the swordswoman back. Yet with the damage they had both taken neither of them chose to stop smiling.


The next step was something Koven had not expected to see. Watching as his sister took a large step back, pivoting on her left foot and pressing the pommel of her dagger to her left breast. It was something he knew all too well as it was something he was forced to face many times as a kid. She was planning to throw away all other forms of attack and focus entirely on her weapon. While it would be foolish to do so with a dagger, that just went to show how far she was willing to go as he left hand positioned itself behind her back. Gahbriogyva however responded in kind. It was almost as if she could feel her intentions to fight with everything and strengthened her stance even further. Just looking at her made it seem as if the madness within her person was teeming through the air, her stance completely different from before, right foot back and left foot forward, right hand held at waist height as her left extended forward and lowered just above her knees.


They stood motionless once again, but this time it was different. Yvaxiphoria’s eyes were like sharpened blades prepared to pierce the heart of her opponent, Gahbriogyva’s like that of a demon’s who lusted after the life of the same. There was no nee for a que as they both charged toward one another. The difference in speed from the first time compared to now was staggering, Koven shuttered at the thought of having to fight either of them for a moment as they exchanged blows. This was how they both fought without using abilities? He had faced Yvaxiphoria multiple times in the past through sparring and yet it was never anything like this. It was intoxicating to watch, enough to draw in the faint of heart who could not resist the allure of combat.


Yvaxiphoria’s strikes were faster than anything Gahbriogyva had managed to see up until that point, even faster than her father’s albeit with less strength behind them. It was impossible to dodge of block  it all! Instead she chose to simply avoid what she could and take the rest in kind while dishing out her own strikes in the process. Yvaxiphoria on the other hand found the fight to be staggering equal. They weren’t going for the kill, rather they were attempting to create the opening needed for a deciding blow. The damage they had both managed to receive was gradually growing more and more extreme yet neither of them could stop now.


In Yvaxiphoria’s mind the words were as clear as day. If I am going to end this I cannot fight as if I am trying to ‘win’. I have to fight as if my life depends on it, as if I am fighting to kill this woman.


In Gahbriogyva’s mind the words were just as clear. This fight will be decided by a finishing blow. An attack strong enough to shatter the earth and tear out bodies apart. With an attack aiming to steal a life.


Just as those thoughts crossed their minds did their smiles fade away. The dagger sliced through the air as if severing the threads of life, tearing apart her opponent whilst attempting to get closer and closer to the finishing blow. However the child of Vall could see it clearly. The seriousness on Gahbriogyva’s face as her eyes sharpened, and for the slightest moment within that fight she could see so clearly the embodiment of madness that was hiding behind the angel.


There was no chance to react, no time to renew her chosen actions as she watched the blonde step forward with her shoulder. The felling of her body colliding with her own was unimaginably strong, staggering her entirely and leaving her wide open. Gahbriogyva didn’t waste any time at all stepping into that opening. Three direct punches to the body, one to the stomach, ribs and mid chest. They were strong, so strong it knocked the very air from her lungs and mad it difficult to even stay conscious. Then, before there was time to recover, the woman ducked down low and with her right leg swept her legs from beneath her.


Yvaxiphoria found herself fallen down, laying on the ground let still unprepared to give up. She could barely breath and yet she was calm, the song of war still playing in her ears as she looked up and there she spotted a sight that was both terrifying sad at the same time.


As Gahbriogyva’s right foot returned to its original position it quickly slid forward. This weapon she had rarely ever had the chance to use for takedowns compared to her hands, lifting high above her head where her left hand would press against the side of her ankle above her head of blonde hair. Her wings instinctively rose as well, blocking out the light of the moon as if saying that all she wanted to exist in that moment were the two of them. Her eyes however spelled a completely different feeling from what her body displayed. The horror of seeing an attack that certainly had the power to kill her outright yet right next to it rested a set of glowing red eyes filled with madness. Even so, behind that madness rested a single request.


Please don’t die on me. You have to survive this…


As the foot fell, Yva could only feel adoration in twofold. She had been trained by some of the most powerful people for the sole purpose of never facing defeat, and yet this woman she had just met had managed to surpass her at some point in pure physical capability. Secondly for her brother, who had managed to intercept the attack which was meant for her so quickly it made her remember why he was named her protector. He blocked the attack perfectly and even still the power was enough to pivot his feet into the earth and cause the surrounding buildings to shake from the impact. However she didn’t even have to see his face to know just how angry he was.


“I could have sworn that one of the rules for this match was not to kill one another, Gahbriogyva.”


“So then you’re standing in my way? I would not advise that if I were you. I applaud you for blocking my attack, but I won’t be letting you get away with interrupting my fight so easily.”


Yva watched with a look of distaste, her brother was strong but he was certainly a fool. Aikekunai or not he was not prepared for this fight. Unlike her he was meant to be an assassin and his capabilities in straightforward combat would not be enough to stand against Gabi. Perhaps if she had her sword it would have been more even, but then that would have just made it a battle of stamina and endurance which she most likely would have still lost. Looking at Gabi now she still hadn’t even broken a sweat. Just what kind of training did Gahbreal put her through? Then again she didn’t have much time to think about it as the slight sniff from Gahbriogyva’s nose made it clear that something was going to happen which she would need to stop herself.


“By my order! Halt immediately!”


The words came out just as quickly as Gabi’s head swung around along with her fist, the way her body twisted yet remained balanced something that looked as if it could not easily be replicated yet both her and her assailant stopped in their tracks per Yva’s request. The blade which was nearly piercing Gabi’s chest the exact same distance away from its mark as the gauntlet was from this new arrival’s face.


“Put your weapons away, you two are a fucking embarrassment to duels throughout all the realms… I suppose it was expected of Koven to interfere, but I expected better from you aunt May.”


The woman sighed as she slid her kodachi into it’s scabbard. It was almost as if the order itself removed all hostility from her person, but that did not mean her presence alone wasn’t enough to keep Gabi on edge. He hadn’t even noticed them until she was directly behind her. She slapped Koven in the back of the head, an action which caused him to drop his defense as well as Gabi’s foot before moving to the side. She then knelt down at Yva’s side and offered her a hand to which the woman grabbed it and was helped to her feet.


“I apologize, Gabi. It seems my brother and second mother just couldn’t contain themselves.”


The darkness claimant still looked as hostile as ever, yet with a blink of the eyes her original blue orbs were once again visible for the group to see accompanied with a smile.


“I cannot blame them. It is only natural to want to protect those dear to you. It seems you are well loved, although I would love to know who this new face might be.”

"No. You really don't."


“That does not change the facts however, this was my loss. That is exceedingly clear as my family had to step in the way they did… I will abide by your terms as we agreed.”


“About that.” Her words caused Yva to raise her eyebrows. Gabi could understand her concern, but it would only manage to go unwarranted for now. “I have come to the conclusion that I much rather prefer your stipulations more than my own. So then, as long as you make certain to remember to introduce me to that mother of yours I will gladly work alongside you. Although I suppose this would be a partnership und I do not belong to you.”


“What are you getting at? What are you trying to gain from this?” Koven questioned her to which he received a bright smile.


“Nothing at all. Even you can see that I would gain nothing from this. It just seems like it would be a lot of fun.”


She could tell that her words had caused the group to be rather confused. Well, all but Yva who was more than pleased to hear the outcome. Her response was all that Gabi needed, and as she reached her hand forward towards her then that was more than enough. A simple handshake they chose to share as a means to seal this deal they had made and with it she would gain even more pleasure from this like no doubt.


“I’ll be more than happy to accept your terms, Gahbriogyva.”


“This is good. I look forward to having more fun with you, princess.”


With that she took a few steps back before jumping up into the air, wings opening and carrying her higher before the feathered appendages wrapped around her entire frame and vanished into darkness. It was always calming to be like this, but it never lasted long. The wings opening to reveal her standing inside of her own home. She had managed to put up quite the front, but even she had to admit that she had been far too reckless this time around; the proof being the multitude of black droplets falling to the floor around her.


She stumbled over to a display in the room she had appeared in. The display was all the room held and yet it sat empty, a simple stone pillar with a small extension which something could be held on. The walls were adorned with multiple depictions of warriors and combatants from the past, multiple backgrounds and ethnicities as if reminding her of those who would be called masters. The floor was covered in clear marble and within that marble could be seen a multitude of human and animal bones. She staggered over to the case, her steps slowing down ever so slightly with each movement as she removed the gauntlet from her hand. She did not fall, refused to fall until the weapon was placed back where it belonged. Then, her legs finally gave out.


The thud from her body hitting the floor did not sound off however as she felt the familiar hands which supported her. He was tall, taller than her father, and looked to be less distressed than could be expected from the others. All she could offer him was a smile as she attempted to force herself to her feet.


“There’s no need to strain yourself lady Schreiber. Allow me to take care of you for now.”


His voice was as loud and commanding as always, but it fit him for who he was. A nature claimant who could speak with both creatures and flora alike. While he could do so that was all he was capable of and whether they chose to listen to his words really depended on the creature or plant itself, meaning he would need to form a literal bond with them. That being said he was quite the gardener and made for a perfect medical expert. He lifted her up into his arms, making certain to not cause her wings any discomfort as he walked her down the halls of the large building.


“Thank you, Lespin. It seems I was a bit careless today.”


“Do not bother yourself with that lady Schreiber. It is my duty to aid you as best I can, and I knew what to expect when I found your gauntlet to be missing. At least allow me to care for you every once in a while.”


Dependable as always. Gabi could see the two human servants she had take care of the basic tasks standing by near her bedroom, both of which went into immediate panic the moment they saw her condition. Lespin however was the first to speak.


“Lars, go and retrieve my supplied immediately and bring them to the young master’s room. Emmy, have Freddy cook a warm meal with some of the special ingredients we have prepared as well as telling the Mist Daughter to run a warm bath. Tell her to use the salts from my garden produced by the violet mushrooms. Sharoleen!” he called out to which an air claimant in a maid’s dress came floating by. “Go and fetch something that will help the young master relax. Be quick about it.”

"Yes sir."

"Yes sir."


“Why are you wearing that thing, Sharoleen?” Gabi questioned her to which the woman twirled in the air and smiled.


“I thought you might think it was cute.”


“It… it is very cute my dear.”


With the order, and the compliment, everyone went about their business. Sharoleen specifically now sporting a bright smile. Lespin however brough her into the bedroom and laid her down on the large bed. Her breathing was normal and her heartrate was fine, albeit a bit slow. If Xainayne or her father had ever found out about this they would rip them limb from limb, not to mention her mother. Even so he couldn’t manage to be angry with the girl. Aside from her condition she wasn’t yelling or angry in the slightest. Instead smiling brightly and looking as if she had been satisfied in a manner that he couldn’t understand.


“Please rest now, lady Schreiber. It will take some time for me to properly treat your wounds and I will wake you when your bath and dinner is prepared.”


“Thank you, Lespin. I will trust you to take care of everything.”