“You can’t be serious… of all the shit that could happen right now.”


A sigh escaped his lips as he chewed through the piece of toast, his hands scrambling through drawers of papers and files as he prepared for the inevitable. He had been sitting around enjoying the peace and quiet until his mother had contacted him, something about him ‘needing to see the news’, but it only turned out to be more of a pain than he had anticipated.


“You know he’ll be calling on you soon. You’re one of the only people he can really rely on.”


“I know mom, but that won’t make it anymore safe. I suppose I should be preparing for travel. And I was hoping to visit Chaemai today.”


“This is more important, you know?”


“Oh my, something more important than Chaemai? I think not.”


“Just get yourself together, Nier. Nammay is most likely expecting you.”


He closed the cabinets and drawers, a slip of paper with rather stylized writing on it along with a signature only he would be capable of putting to proper use. Tucking it into his pocket and reaching out to his weapons which rose into the air before settling at his sides, he let out a groan and rubbed his eyes. An attempt to clear away the grogginess to no avail. He’d have to sleep while on the way no doubt, but then again he could always hope that Nammay would send someone else instead of him. However he was always prepared to do whatever the ancient of metal asked of him without question, and that was why he found himself in the Gulf standing before this father figure.


“I’m sure you’ve already seen what’s going on.”


“Yes lord Nammay, do you need me to handle it?”


“You really need to stop calling me that, but as expected you understood the situation. While I could send anyone else I would prefer you handle this. There’s no telling what might happen and I’d rather avoid as many problems as possible.”


“Well if that’s the case it’s only natural that I’m sent out, I suppose. Hopefully I don’t run into anymore Aikekunai. It would be a hassle having to deal with anyone else other than Gahbreal. Although I'm certain Novevu will have DeVian deal with this.”


“As important as this is I don’t see any other Dimea aside from him being sent. That may serve to be a problem for everyone else involved, but if Xainayne is taking this as seriously as he should then it may be unavoidable.”

“Absolutely not.”


“And why is that? You act as if this isn’t a serious matter.”


“Oh, I know it’s serious, but I don’t really fucking care either. My answer remains no.”


“You can’t continue to coddle the girl forever, Gahbreal. She will eventually be pulled into the fray and both of us know that she’s more than capable of fending for herself. Even more than most claimants can say. Besides, Verin will also be present so she will not be alone.”


“You do realize what’s going to happen if anything happens to my daughter… correct?”


“Of course I do, but you have important things to take care of and there aren’t many others who can be relied upon. I’m certain everyone will expect you to be there, but you will continue on with your normal duties and leave this up to Verin and Gahbriogyva.”


“…tell her to come here. Immediately.”


The ancient wasted no time calling upon the girl. Having expected Gahbreal to put up much more of a fight before deciding to agree, this was going smoother than expected and if it could be resolved quickly then that would be all the better. The two stood in silence for a moment under the canopy of the tent, a place of confusion and madness for anyone else and yet a home above all other homes for the present two. Then, right before them, a vestige od darkness began to form like a cocoon of black feathers. They spread open like an ill omen upon all things present and revealed to be within was none other than the girl herself. She looked to be rather calm, yet agitated. The same look held within her eyes that her father currently sported and as she gave them both a disagreeing look it only became more apparent how serious they were. How often had she seen that look upon her father’s face?


“So then. What is this about? I was rather busy with my own work, so the faster we get this over with the better.”


“Your work doesn’t matter right now. You’re being called upon.”


“Excuse me? My work is everything, and I would appreciate it if you didn’t—”


Her father placed his hands on her shoulders. They were heavy, as if keeping her grounded and tether the ground beneath their feet. His eyes were a stark red which only fed into the madness resting behind her own. This was serious.


“Focus. Your work can wait. There’s no need to play dumb, I know you’ve most likely been informed about the events in Rome. You will be going there immediately.”


“Wait. I’m going? You are serious?”


“You will refrain from combat at all costs! This is not a request, your actions here carry more weight than just your own affairs. I know how you fight and we must avoid killing the claimants of other houses to make certain that you personally don’t make any enemies. I wouldn’t want to have to clean up any unneeded messes. Verin will be there as well as Stasia. Work with the two of them if need be. I am expecting DeVian to also be present, but I do not know for certain. However, try to keep your distance. I don’t need you doing anything you’ll regret with her.”


What a pain. She had been expecting to make her way to Rome regardless of what either of them had to say and specifically for finding DeVian. How often would she get the chance to force a fight on her? Then again this could work out even better for her. At the end of the day this would mean that a mixing pot of claimants would be gathering in a singularity, and that meant one thing specifically for her…


“If anyone attacks me I do not plan to hold back. You understand that, correct?”


“I would prefer you flee. You are rather quick to take off with your wings.”


“And what of Quinnox’s claimants? Would they not just chase after me?”


“Hopefully you don’t do anything to get on his bad side at all.”


“Gahbriogyva, your father is correct about two things specifically although he left one thing out. Attempt to refrain from combat, but if there is no avoiding it then do what you must. Don’t initiate conflict. Your only purpose there will be to gather as much information as possible regarding Echowix’s appearance and what she left behind. You will be representing our house here, so try to stay on your best behavior.”


“Hmph.” They were sending people as representative icons and they chose her and Verin? All she could do was assume power was more important than reservations. “Fine, I understand. I have seen what was going on so I get the gist of this situation. I’ll get my weapons and head there immediately.”


“There’s no need”, her father’s words caused her eyes to shift to him. “If combat does break out forgo the guns. Just use your weapon. Don’t hold back. Your survival comes above all else.” His grip tightened on her shoulders and for a moment there was a stinging pain under her skin. Thinking about it this was the first time she had ever been sent on any real request by Xainayne or her father. He certainly wasn’t against showing how nervous he was. “If anyone gets in the way of your survival, kill them. Show no mercy. For us power is everything. If you are to be revealed as claimant to the public then you will do so with power. As your father, I give you permission to fight your hardest... if it comes to that.”


It was almost too much to bear, her mouth holding onto her normal frown and yet her rosy cheeks and eyes as red as blood told a completely different story. The story of someone who had been given something she could have never desired more than she did in that moment. It wasn’t as if she weren’t prepared to do as she desired regardless of what the two of them had to say, but hearing the words from her own father’s mouth? Nothing would compare to the extasy of that. If she could have recorded it and listened to it every single night from that day forward she would have gladly done it, but for now she had to remain composed. This was a rare opportunity after all and it couldn’t be ruined by her own lust for whatever possible carnage awaited them.


“So then, Gahbriogyva. Will you do it? Not that you really have a choice.”


“A choice? Xainayne, you know better than that. I’ll gladly handle this for you. The two of you may rest assured that this will be handled with utmost care.”


“Good, Wolf Pup. Now go. I will contact you if the need arises. Be safe.”


Just as she had come she was gone, leaving not a single trace of her ever being present. Gahbreal sighed and it was an action Xainayne took note of, amongst other things. The claimant male sat down on the floor as if the conversation itself had tired him out. It didn’t take him long before he chose to reach into his coat pocket and retrieve tha flask from within, emptying its contents into his mouth.


“Do you see why I chose this as the best choice?”


“Of course I did. She showed up wearing her combat gear for fuck’s sake. By the realms, I should have expected her to end up going anyway regardless of if we told her to or not.”


“But at least you managed to convince her easily enough. We shouldn’t have too many problems now and at least we will be keeping a closer eye on her now rather than if we did not expect her to go. You should trust my decisions more often, Wolf. Then again it's always fun to see you struggle with parenthood.”


“I always do, but it’s not so simple with her. Let’s just hope she doesn’t kill anyone unnecessarily. Also, if things go awry, you'll be struggling just as much as me.”
The small rodent scurried across the dirt covered floor littered with leaves and other forms of foliage. The way it darted about gave signs of panic and distress that only the creature felt it could really understand and yet as its movements quickened, so too did the sound of slithering behind it. The creature dashed up the leg of a table and through the multiple pots of plants which were placed atop it until it found itself against a wall, turning to its right and moving with deft precision. That is, until it found itself in a corner. How many times had this happened? How many times had this situation occurred? As often as the prey would attempt to escape the predator it rarely ever came to pass that the predator would go without its catch, and this situation was no different. The mouse’s amber eyes were locked onto the serpent which was now positioned before it, each strand of dusty blue and green fur standing up on end as its tail curled behind itself. This was it, there was no escape. It was time to accept its fate. The viper lunged forward only to find its teeth lodged into something completely different from its target, helplessly wriggling around attempting to free itself until realizing what had transpired.


“Valentine, how many times am I gonna have to tell ya to leave Dex alone? I swear if I didn’t raise ya from birth I would have eaten ya already. How did ya even get outta yer cage?” The viper wiggled about, attempting to make noises as it found its teeth trapped in its owner’s arm. “There’s no arguing this time ya know? You’re gonna have to learn to get along with the little rascal just like yer cousins.”


She removed the snake from her wrist, the bite mark added to the many others which riddled her arm. She placed the viper onto the floor and watched as it slithered off in a blur of orange and brown, a satisfied smile on her face which only grew when she turned to see the mouse now standing on the edge of the table attempting to reach her. She almost went about her normal morning banter with the rascal, but then again she had no idea what time it was. Making the decision to sleep in was in poor taste and Florita was no doubt displeased with her lack of action, but it would be fine overall. There was always time to tend to her plants and go watch over her shop. She reached her hand over and the mouse scurried up her arm before taking a comfortable seat on the patch of scales which covered her shoulder. She coiled up onto the floor as she always had done in the past as the small creature squeaked and squealed into her ear.


“What? Of course I haven’t watched the news. When was the last time ya ever saw me do that? Now let me sleep some more. It ain’t gonna be a relaxing day if—” The mouse squeaked a few more times, this time causing her to open up her eyes as rise from the floor in a sluggish manner. “Fine! I’m up! I should have let Valentine eat ya, little punk.”


The mouth leapt from her shoulder and down onto the table again, watching as she slithered across the floor to the washroom where she would begin brushing her teeth. Clearly she wasn’t fully awake as this was her third time brushing her teeth today without even eating anything. As she emerged, teeth cleaner than clean, she spotted the mouse who was now holding what looked to be a small bottle of pills in its hands.


“Ah! I almost forgot! Ya got me”, she spoke as she grabbed the container and shook one of the pills into her hand, swallowing it whole before chugging down a half finished bottle of water which had been resting on the table. Looking around her home as she ingested the medication really made her feel miserable. “This house is a fucking mess. Ya couldn’t have at least cleaned up a bit while I was asleep? Ya have all gotta help me out here, this is a nightmare.” A few loud squeals from the mouse jogging her memory once again. “Fine! I’ll look up the news! I swear ya just want to ruin my relaxation. Now what am I looking for?” A quick glance at her phone and her brow raised, jaw dropping ever so slightly as the situation had finally found itself to her. “Oh…” she spoke as she skimmed through the articles. “Oh no…” she exclaimed as she looked to the mouse which was now once again on her shoulder. “Oh fuck me.”


What was once the normalcy of her home had now become a place she hadn’t visited in quite some time, the warmth filling her system and giving her the factory reset she needed to be fully awake. Her eyes remained on the horizon, or at least attempting to remain focused on it. How many times had this place saved her?


“I see you’ve been relaxing today.” The ancient’s voice caught her attention and she spun around quickly.


“What? No, of course not. I’ve been as busy as a bee.” She spoke to which the ancient of nature simply gave her a once over to which the dark skinned female chose to do the same. Of course she didn’t change her clothes! A tattered and sleeveless crop top splattered with dirt and grass stains, the lower half of her body quickly shifting from its snakelike form to that of her normal legs only to remind herself that she wasn’t wearing any pants or undergarments! “Heh, work has been very slow… today?”


“Sometimes I regret having you abandon your more serious nature, but then again you enjoy this version of yourself more than the other so I can’t blame you. Have you been taking your medication?”


“Yes ma’am. Dex has been making sure of that.”


“Good. Well I didn’t call you here for nothing so I’ll make this quick so you can get situated. I’m sure you’ve seen the news, I doubt it would be possible for you to avoid seeing what has transpired at this point.”


“That’s right, ya can say that again.” Her eyes darted over to the mouse as if threatening its very being before turning back to the ancient. “So, what will ya have me do?”


“If I’m remembering correctly you live in Greece. Athens to be precise. It should be easy enough for you to make your way to Rome and retrieve whatever important things you may find. Whether that be items or information it will do us good to acquire anything.”


The nature claimant lowered her head, toes crossing over themselves as she thought over the situation. It wasn’t hard to guess that their house wouldn’t be the only one doing this and it most certainly wouldn’t be an easy task to handle if some sort of conflict broke out. Perhaps that was why she was being sent, but that only brough tup even more questions. She had abandoned the lifestyle she once chose for a more peaceful experience. Would this not contradict that very choice? Even Florita agreed it would be best to have her make this decision, it was a decision they had come to together, but why all of a sudden would things change? Perhaps it was just that serious, or maybe there just weren’t many others in their house who were accustomed to combat like her. She could think of people like Loic, but even he was far too kind at times although not necessarily the brightest when it came to social awareness. Perhaps that was why she was being sent, but perhaps it would simply be better to ask.


“Uhm, Florita? Why am I being sent out? I’m sure there are much better choices other than myself, so why would ya choose me? I doubt I’ll be any good in a fight and the medication will only do so much. If things get too stressful I don’t know if it’ll be able to hold up—”


The ancient placed her hands on the woman’s arms, all of the little bite marks fading away ever so slowly. She had almost forgotten Florita could do this, and while it did not answer the question it did put her at relative ease. If anything she could say that the ancient of nature was well capable of calming others down if she tried.


“I chose you because I believe you will be able to help. There’s no need to doubt yourself. You know what you’re capable of and even if you stumble you can always pick yourself back up again. I will need your perspective as well as your skills here. There’s no telling what may happen, but whatever does happen you simply need to do what’s best. Try not to cause any trouble and keep your contact with the other houses to a minimum. Now go, I may have someone else help you as well. I will inform you of the details later. You must hurry.”


Back in her home, it never truly felt real. How quickly the transition from her nest to the Fields and back always transpired made it feel as if she were sick, but she did not have time to dwell on that. She had things to do and they had to be done quickly.


“Dex, go and get my weapon. I’m gonna need the thing I suppose.”


As the mouse scurried off she walked over to a cabinet resting against the wall, opening it up to reveal shelves of bullets, magazines and attachments for multiple weapons, but only one really mattered. She grabbed the handgun which rested lazily on a shelf and four magazines as well as a few  boxes of ammunition. With it all placed on the table next to her potted plants she would throw on some clothes that were fixated more on comfort than fashion or defense. Besides, she wouldn’t really need them if things did evolve to a violent scenario. Navy jeans, a cream sweater and some green vans. It was almost like she didn’t understand the very concept of matching or caring for it, her messy head of curly, unkempt hair only serving to accentuate that point as she stuffed the pistol into her pants and the magazines and ammo into her pockets.


“Alrighty. Dex! Get yer ass out here! We’ve gotta get moving!” the mouse came scurrying out of one of the back rooms and up into the comfort of her sweater where it would do its best to remain hidden. A few squeaks and the woman would sigh in response. A few more squeaks and she would grab her wallet from the small tray next to the door. “Yeah, I know it ain’t gonna be a fun time. Ya don’t have to remind me of that. I have a friend who owes me a favor so we can be to Italy by sundown, although we’ll be traveling by speedboat. From there we’ll just figure something out. Maybe I’ll call in a few more favors.”

She hated the water. More than most things really, but it couldn't be helped. By now time was of the essence and she was late compared to what she could have been. For now she would just focus as best she could on strategy and let everything else fall into place as it needed to. If all else failed she at least had a chance to read the article. They shouldn't need to worry about any humans so she could always just move about freely and as quickly as she could with her tail, but if she could avoid drawing the attention that would bring from other claimants that would work as well. Then again it was just as she said... they'd just figure something out, as they always had.

“Do I really have to go? I’d rather just stay here, relax, and be loved by my subjects.”


“As in your ‘subjects’, are you referring to my plants?”


“Maybe. Is that a problem?”


“Not particularly, but I would have at least expected you to want to be loved by… you know… me?”


“Awe, is my Soi jealous?”


“I’m not jealous, Eva. If anything I’m urging you to go. No one really cares for it when you choose to ignore your duties, but I believe this might be a situation which you cannot avoid. Mother might even get upset with you if you just choose to ignore your ancient at a time like this.”


“Oh please, as if anyone really cares for Jayhe that much. I’m sure they’d laugh it off.” She paused for a moment. A sigh flowing from her lips as she rested into his lap, her place of safety above safety. She could feel the disapproving look on the back of her head. “Fine. Fine! If you think I should go I will. Although I planned on going anyway. It’s not like this is something I can very well ignore.”


Eva flinched ever so slightly as the familiar feeling of her partner’s hand resting on her head became all that mattered in that moment. The movement of her fingers through the tangles of her hair, the warmth which resonated off of them, she took in every single moment as she always did. “Good, you always manage to surprise me with how attentive you are while also being so standoffish.” Eva on the other hand sat contently for a moment with a face shaded in red before finally lifting her own hands to remove his gentle touch.


“Enough. I have things to do. Anymore than that and I’m not going to go.” She spoke as she reached into her pocket and retrieved her phone. Soivan was busy wondering who she would choose to call at a time like this, but the answer was clear the moment she leaned back against his chest and raised the phone to her ear. It only took a few seconds before, “Yeah, Jayhe. There’s no need to whine to me about it, I already know what’s happening… don’t bother, I’ll be going myself… yeah… I’m an Aikekunai so I don’t need anyone else! Fuck! Besides, it’s not like anything’s going to really happen! I’ll be there within the hour!” Seeing the small woman hang up the phone and throw it at the wall was both adorable yet increasingly violent, the plants shuffling over to devour the now shattered device, the only things in the area which were no doubt pleased with her anger.


“It’s okay, you’ll be fine. Will you be leaving now?” Soivan spoke as he gave the woman a tight hug.


“Yeah. The sooner I get there the sooner I can get this settled, I suppose. Then again I guess this is quite important. I planned to go anyway, even if I was told not to. I have a few things to check up on.” She twirled her head around, moving her hair aside as she looked Soivan directly in the face. She seemed nervous and that was more than enough to reveal what she wanted, the two of them sharing a kiss before she finally chose to stand to her feet. “I love you. I’ll be back when this is all over. Hopefully it isn’t going to be too much of a hassle.”


“I love you too. Take a few of my plants with you and try to have a bit of fun while you’re out there..”


“Thank you Soi. I won’t be gone for too long.”


Her exit was standard, the plants which would be accompanying her being ones that she had come to know well. Not that it was common to have them follow her around, rather she spent so much time with Soivan that it was becoming easier to tell them all apart. She had meant to ask him if they had names at some point and yet she always forgot to do it. When she found herself with Soivan all other things tended to no longer matter, and she wasn’t against admitting it entirely. It was for that reason she only accepted to have three of them escort her and she simply named them by number. However the moment she walked down the stairs and to her own home a whisper reached all of their ears.


“Ignore me.”


With it the plants almost seemed to not even register his very existence and yet Eva sighed as she looked across the room at her brother who was sitting in the edge of the countertop with a sandwich of what looked to be lettuce, tomato and possibly turkey. “Did you really have to do that? It’s not like Soivan doesn’t already know about you.”


“I know, but my job becomes easier when no one is constantly peering at me. Besides, it’s a simple order. They will still have their senses about them, but registering me just won’t be possible. Are we really going to do this? You know once we begin there won’t be any turning back. The events which will begin falling into place—”


“You don’t have to explain it to me. My entire life revolves around this… you should remember that.”


“I asked you once before and you never answered me. Do you believe Soivan’s feelings for you will remain after you’ve accomplished your goal? Do you believe everything will remain the same?”


Eva didn’t much care to change her clothing, instead choosing to simply change her slippers she had been wearing with a pair of tight fitting tactical boots, the same footwear which held the holster for her knife. A pair of loose fitting blue basketball shorts and a white t-shirt with a black cardigan. It wasn’t often she prioritized comfort over everything else, but perhaps today was just one of those days. “I believe nothing will ever change between the two of us. That’s what the meaning behind being someone’s soulmate it, even if things do manage to change around it. Now then, enough questions. You just need to focus on being my shadow as always. Things are finally starting to move in an impactful way and of course there will be certain eyes who can’t resist. The name of our game is manipulation.”


“As terrifying as always. I’ll meet you there—”


“No need, open the path yourself. There’s no time to waste.”


“Of course, sister.” He paused for a moment, clearing his throat before uttering a single phrase. “Open the path to my destination.” Eva watched on as his order was made apparent, the very fabric between the realms twisting and tearing apart at the sound of his order. It wasn’t even capable of being classified as a proper path. It looked more like a forced entry, a breach straight through the Prism and directly to where they needed to go, although the location on the opposite end was not their direct objective. “We will be entering around the edge of the area to  avoid dropping into the midst of things. While this is important, your protection is my main priority. Stay safe, stay out of trouble, and I will continue watching over you at all times.”


“Don’t talk to me like I don’t know what I’m doing. Come, let’s go”, she spoke to the plants which followed behind her through what seemed like a tear in reality. It always felt odd passing through this anomaly her brother was capable of creating. She could remember the first time it had happened, when he found himself incapable of traversing through realms as his very existence was being kept secret. It seemed more like a tantrum at first, but when the very realms began to heed his words things became clear. It was situation like that which made her believe her mother could see into the future. No doubt he was one of the most potent members of their family and a brother she could rely on. If only he could command the Void in the same way, he might have found himself holding onto too much power. “Alright. I’ll be counting on you.” She spoke as she turned to see her brother already gone, no doubt surveying the area before proceeding to shadow her. “Of course. Typical.”
He almost slipped and fell on his face, catching himself just before loosing his balance completely. He rubbed the frost from his arms before allowing his body the time to adjust, spending so much time with Shinzo taking its toll on his overall tolerance to the cold itself. However what was most important would be what had caused him to lose his balance in the first place. His eyes turning to Daenu who looked to be growing rather impatient with his lack of cooperation.


“There ain’t no chance in hell I’m gonna do what you’re askin of me this time. Just send your other ants out, let em stumble around in the dark trying to ‘look’ for somethin for ya. Maybe it’d be a bit of a lesson for you as to why it’s a terrible idea to fuck up the claimants who follow ye when someone else does you wrong.”


“Haden, this isn’t a matter up for debate. You either do it or you die.”


“Oh? That’s my ultimatum? Well why didn’t you say so. So how about this then, I’m gonna go to Rome and gun down every single thing I see move on sight! Let me tell ya, I ain’t gonna bother with playin nice with a bunch of people I don’t care about and you know it. So I’ll go, but it ain’t gonna be a different ordeal from my normal times out on the job.”


“How can you manage to be such a prick? I swear, I’ve given you far too much for you to act this way toward me every time we're together!”


“Well you give and you take now don’t ye?” he only managed to be getting angrier by the second which was a feat in its own right. As he tied his hair behind his head into a bun he reached into his pocket for his flask, but found nothing. “Well shite! I ain’t gonna bother with it mum, this crap is really gettin to me… I’ll go, but at this point it’s only because I’d feel sorry for whoever else would have to feel around the city of Rome in my place until they find whatever it is they’re lookin for… I’m an adaptable lad, Daenu. I don’t like questionin your choices too often, but this is surely one of those times where I’m gonna have to ask how long this is gonna go on? This is a prime situation in which I wouldn’t be a necessity if the majority of our house could see. I’d go as far as to say we’re all an adaptable lot just because of our situation, but I’m growin tired of seein everyone hobbling around here.”


Odd was the only proper way to describe this conversation. Imagine, he has no alcohol for the slightest moment and its enough to have him sober up the amount he needs to speak about something he cares about. He wasn’t lying however, while he was a disagreeable sort he rarely ever did seriously question the choices that Daenu made, just as rarely as he referred to her as his mother. It served twofold, accentuating his care for the rest of the house as well as his remaining disdain for the choice she had made long ago. It seemed he would never allow a moment to pass by without showing his lack of agreeance. Then again it was just the way he always was. Most importantly however it led this conversation to a close, as there was only one real way to end it without a transition into a massive argument… silence. The only thing worse than arguing Haden was arguing with sober Haden, after all.


“Is there anything else specific ya want out of this? I mean, other than me time?”


“If you could refrain from killing others that would make all of our lives easier. This honestly shouldn’t be any different from your normal type of work, aside from the amount of other houses which will be involved. Although none of them should be hostile. We don’t know who is sending who, so it is important that you don’t take any unnecessary actions. You could very well end up making an enemy that leads to your demise if you’re not careful.”


“I’ll keep that in mind, as if there are many people who could really give me that much trouble.” He spoke as he tucked in his shirt and moved his handgun from the back of his pants to the front. “Alright, I’m headin out. If ya find anyone else who can do this let me know. I still ain’t pleased about havin to go out here. I’d rather spend the fuckin time with someone else, but I suppose that’s too much to ask.”


“Be safe Haden. And try to behave, kiddo.”


“Aye, and you as well. I’m sure you’ve got some meetin to attend. Try not to get too heated, you know those assholes like to tease ya.”
The cold replaced with warmth, the biting wind now a slow breeze, a sigh escaped his lips as he reached into the pocket of his black slacks and retrieved a single fingerless brown leather glove. He placed the hem of the handwear between his lips as he rolled his sleeves up to his elbows, taking his time to make certain that his glove was comfortably on his hand before reaching for his pistol and checking the firearms closely. Of course there was already one in the chamber, but sliding out the magazine would reveal it was already missing several bullets. “For fuck’s sake”, he muttered under his breath as he placed the item in his back pocket and retrieved another from his side pocket. Sliding the magazine into his favorite handgun was like a brief moment of pleasure and the moment he did he began walking down the road slowly with his eyes analyzing his surroundings attentively. Each step was careful and yet at the same time it was all for the wrong reasons, a gunshot echoing through the air as a nearby shop window shattered before he stepped inside of the dark building. The glass crunching beneath his feet, eyes sifting through the darkness before he found his mark. He only took the bottles with the highest alcohol content, emptying the contents of some into his flask while placing the others onto the bar for consumption.


Bottle after bottle he chugged down the contents of each as if they were incapable of really doing anything for him, but ever so slowly were they finally starting to give him the buzz he was looking for. From one bottle to the next, he would lift the beverages and cool them to a proper temperature before consuming them entirely. At this point it wasn’t as much a means to regain his normal drunken state, but rather for his own enjoyment before no doubt having to deal with others. However the sound of approaching footsteps gave way to the realization that he might have to deal with an annoyance earlier than anticipated.


He hadn’t expected someone to come to the location of a gunshot, but then again everyone present was no doubt looking for clues as to where they should begin or what they should be looking for outside of the location Echowix herself had chosen to appear. Was this person planning to attack? It was clear that he wasn’t going to be the only hostile person present, but he certainly was not expecting to come across another so soon. Only someone who was looking for a fight would approach combat or the sound of gunshots in a city supposedly occupied by no conscious entities other than claimants. Well, that or someone who was out of their mind. It was for that reason he chose to disregard putting his hand on his gun and instead prepared to outright freeze whoever chose to come into view. His greatest fear would be Le’eroy, his hope being that he was left back home because of his wild nature, but the moment he spotted the figure rounding the corner he remembered the other two categories he had left out of who might be bold enough to just go around approaching anyone and everyone they found.


Confidence and friendliness.


“I thought I would have found you if I followed the sound of a gunshot. You’re terrible, stealing the moment you get the opportunity from these poor people.” Just hearing the woman speak was a terrible omen and a warning to watch his step. Cyva of all people. It wasn’t until that very moment that he had really taken Daenu’s warning seriously. He was close to making an enemy of unparalleled consequence and he had barely arrived!


“As if you have the right to talk to me like that, rabbit. I wasn’t expectin to see ya here. Aren’t you one of the children of chaos and all that? I know you’re not just here to give me an earful, are ye?”


“How kind of you to offer, now pour me a drink if you don’t mind.”


“Just as bossy as ever. I don’t know how Gahbreal puts up with ye. Now that I think of it, ain’t the wolf stalkin around here somewhere? Seein you here I’d almost guess he’s right around the feckin corner.”


“He’s dealing with business of his own, as usual.” She spoke as she watched him pour a freshly chilled beverage into a glass before handing it over to her. “ Verin and… someone else are here in his stead. I’m here on my own bit of business as well.” She took a sip of the drink as Haden chuckled to himself.


“Always the secretive type, aren’t we? Alright, I ain’t gonna pry. Let sleepin wolves lie was it? At least you ain’t after me head.”


“Indeed… actually, we should travel together. It would benefit us both in the long run, would it not? Besides, I think it will be fun. We can catch up on lost time. I’m sure you have lots to tell me about Shinzo.”


This was odd. Cyva was certainly the friendly sort, but this was a little too friendly. It was almost as if she were attempting to have him trust her more than normal. As if he didn’t already trust her. Then again she was never the sort to go behind people’s backs unless it were completely necessary. If anything she were possibly planning to just order him around while they were out here. However she was right about one thing, it would certainly be easier for them to work together for the time being. Luckily she had happened to be the first person he ran into and no doubt one of the few people who was actually present. There were only going to be few in his opinion who were bold enough to come directly to the area without taking caution on their approach, but for him he couldn’t be bothered to care for conflict when he could just end it with violence. Cyva on the other hand was most likely brought there by Gahbreal, and if that were the case it would be stupid to try attacking her. However the Aikekunai was getting ahead of himself. From what Daenu had said everyone was at least planning to stay neutral.


Cyva finished her drink, an attempt at warding off the edge that followed this assignment. It was her plan to deal with this as easily as possible and for the most part that would have been fine. However, now that Gabi was present, she had a completely different objective as well as the current one. She knew her daughter well, knew all of her tendencies, but most importantly she knew her temperament. She had to be prepared to help Gabi as soon as the need arose. Her daughter was always prone to conflict and if she were here it would be wise to assume she might very well start some form of conflict. This didn’t however mean she could follow her around, Gabi’s sense of smell would just give her away. Because of this it would be best to keep her distance yet be prepared to move at any time.


“Alright, fuck it, let’s get movin. I’ll follow your lead since I know you ain’t gonna let it be any other way, lass. So where are we off to?”


“Well first we should survey the area, make sure nothing strange is going on before going directly to where Echowix showed herself. While I’d rather go straight to the destination I also would rather keep from being blindsided by some unknown variable…”


“Le’eroy?”


“Indeed. If Lunia does send him out here then he’s bound to fight someone. I'd rather it not be us.”

“Ballafex!” Flori’s voice echoed through the air. “Ballafex, I know you’re here! I’ve been calling you for hours!”


The ancient waded through the thick forest for what seemed like hours attempting to get the claimant to show himself. It seemed as if her were completely ignoring him, so much time passing since Echowix had chosen to make her appearance that it was aggravating. It would make sense that Ballafex would know nothing about it as he never chose to stay too close to civilization, but it was for that exact reason the ancient chose to keep him within the realm as often as possible. Although he wouldn’t admit it an air of worry arose from his most loyal claimant choosing to ignore his summons. However, as he finally came across the male it seemed his worries were unfounded.


“There you are. I suppose I should have expected that you’d be meditating, but I remember ordering you to do your meditations within the realm. It’s difficult enough to keep track of you as is. No one has time to track you down like this… are you even listening to me?”


He watched on as his claimant did not even move. His meditation deep and unbothered, as it had always been. Ballafex often chose to meditate in this manner and the other ancients agreed that it was good to have him do so without disturbance. He was a troubling boy after all, and when he wasn’t meditating he was roaming about the earth without restraint or purpose; leading to his tendency to often find himself in the domains of other ancients disturbing the lives of humans whenever he saw fit. However he would meditate for years at a time, doing what he would call ‘becoming one with the earth’ and there was no better description than that. Flori could never get used to the sight of his very skin crumbling off, his bones clearly visible as nature grew through his very flesh if it could even be called that anymore. It was almost as if he were entirely dead when meditating and it wouldn’t be a first if someone mistook him for a corpse. However it was easy to wake him up, this being proven by Flori’s choice to stomp his foot against the ground to which the earth beneath them shuttered and all the nearby creatures scurried off.


“Are you awake and focused now?” he questioned him. “I’d hate to have to cause more damage to your surroundings, but I do have more important things to attend to.”


Following his words the skeletal figure began to shift and creak, dust and dirt falling from its frame to reveal his flesh beneath the very gaps of crumbling and cracking skin and bone. As the form stood to its feet did the very earth beneath his feet shift and stir, rising up to fill in the erosion of his bones and body until he no longer had the form of a dilapidated corpse. Instead he now stood tall, tall enough to look down on the ancient as the dust which now swirled around them settled to the ground beneath their feet. His skin looked as dry earth yet with time it would begin to look more like that of normal skin, tanned and soft. His long blonde hair folding over his shoulders and his golden jewelry still adorning his body, the only thing he was missing would be the robes he normally wore which no doubt withered away with the passing of time.


“Flori! It is good to see you! I did not believe you would personally come to awaken me. For what do I owe this honor?” he spoke as he opened his arms as if expecting a hug to which the ancient stepped back slightly.


“There’s no time for that. I need you to do something for me right now.”


“A request? For me? This is new! You do not often give me many things to do. Unless… this does not have anything to do with Florita, does it?”


“No, of course not. Not like you’d listen if it did anyway.”


“You should really try to get along. The two of you go hand in hand, you should be the closest to one another. Then again all elements must be birthed from the foundation of the earth. No one is going to like you if you keep acting that way.”


“Enough of that! Echowix has finally made a move, and I need you to go and see what has occurred.”


“Echowix has shown herself? Outside of the Citadel? I see, so things are beginning to change somehow… interesting. Very interesting indeed. Well then,” he spoke as he lowered himself to one knee. “What will you have me do, my master?”


“I’m glad to see you’re finally taking this seriously… you will be working with Marjorie, although I doubt she’ll have her hands directly in any of this, or really be on our side at all. As such it will mainly be up to you to gather as much information as possible regarding Echowix’s appearance. You’ll be going to Rome. Something must be there for her to have shown up.”


“Is that so? Blasphemous though it may be, I will not raise a hand to your Champion."


“Avoid Marjorie unless she approaches you. The last thing we need is for you doing something to upset Novevu's Aikekunai."

"Qrow? Why would that one care about our house? If I'm correct he cared very little for anything outside of his lover's health."

"Just how long has it been since you've socialized with the other houses?!"

"You know, I have no idea... regardless I'll be heading to Rome immediately."

"Before you do that, please find yourself some clothes. There will be other claimants there and, although you’re rather good looking by normal standards, I doubt anyone will want to see you wandering about naked.”


“There’s no need to worry about that!” the claimant spoke with a bellowing laugh as he reached down to the ground beneath himself. His hand plunged directly into the dirt and stone, from within drawing out a perfect set of robes as well as his rifle and bayonet. “I remembered how upset the others were the last time I showed up without any garments so I made sure to bring a spare set of clothes!”


“How thoughtful... now are you ready?” the ancient asked as he watched the claimant fix his robe over himself and place the bayonet and sheath into his waist wrap. With that he stood tall and gave a smile and nod, the ancient sighing as he opened the way for him. “Normally I’d have you make your way there on your own, but for some reason you’re all the way in South America and I doubt you have any proper means of transportation. While you could always travel underground or just do your ‘dust-walking’, I would prefer you don’t draw a scene on your approach. Now then, go.”


The claimant stepped toward the portal, stopping just before entering without even turning to face the ancient. “Flori. What are my permissions for combat?”


“Refrain from it at all costs. While normally I wouldn’t care and let you do as you please, there will be too many houses involved for you to act too freely. If combat is unavoidable focus on restraining your enemies or fleeing. The last thing I need is for you to collapse a building and draw everyone’s attention to yourself. However, if you feel your life is in danger then show no mercy. however, no one should be expecting you, so try to keep to yourself if you can.”


“Understood.”
The moment the portal was gone, and he could once again feel the distance between himself and Flori, that feeling of separation set in once again. It was sad every time he thought about it, and yet he couldn’t be bothered with it now that he found himself with the excitement of finally having something important to do. It was a feeling of giddiness he found himself enjoying every moment of as he walked down the empty roads. Or rather there was a sense of greater joy since he had been forbidden from entering cities and towns since everyone was afraid he would destroy the buildings. He couldn’t bring himself to understand why everyone was so afraid though, he had only done it once!


He took a deep breath and with it the ground beneath his feet had begun to turn to dust, but before he could do any real damage he stopped himself and let the dust fall back to the earth. Part of him wanted to just waltz around and feel everything out, but another part of him remembered that he was told not to dust-walk mere moments ago. Instead he looked around for a moment only to realize he had no idea where he was or where to go. Perhaps it would be best to ask for help, but then again that might end with him getting into a situation he didn’t want to be in.


Perhaps it would be in my best interest to just move around underground. I’ll come out if I feel I must, but for now it might just be a better option to remain out of sight as Flori suggested. Keep to myself.


Or at least that was what he thought, compared to what would actually come to be. Once again he remembered just how few chances he would get to actually roam around a city and as such he would walk the streets and take in as much as he could. Get a feel for the foundation around him, the feeling of the vibrations through the earth beneath his feet, the minerals which made up each building around him, the construction beneath the ground under his feet. With every step an echo and with every echo a new construct to memorize and add to his collection of things he could create at a moments notice. He would explore this place and while doing so keep his eyes open for any other claimants. The moment he spotted one would be the moment he found a target to follow, and that would no doubt lead him to something important.


Perhaps I should have asked Flori which other claimant would be present. It has been some time since I have spoken with other claimants. I wonder if all the Aikekunai are still the same as before…

He cast the thought aside as he began sauntering down the road in his normal manner. If any word were to be used to describe his movements it would be intimidating, his stature not lending any aid to reduce the aura of  grandeur he senselessly exuded from his person. It was mainly the reason he was always met with so much hostility. He did not believe himself to be better than anyone, but he believed his element to be greater than everyone. As such everyone was treated equally regardless of status or title, no one received special treatment, in his eyes everyone was the same from the lowest human to the most esteemed claimant. Once anyone came to realize this they would certainly succeed in understanding the male better, albeit also understanding why so many people disliked him. However, not many people cared to put themselves at risk fighting him over it. He was certainly arrogant with his words and assumed everyone was on the exact same level of importance as himself unless they were and ancient or treasure, but that arrogance was followed alongside a troublesome ability which made him difficult to approach with hostility. All it took was single aggressive touch after all and you might find your body's mineral breaking down and being extracted into the dust of the earth.

Even so, everyone would agree it was a far easier choice to leave him be if possible. He was far too kind for his own good and it was because of this that it was rather difficult to properly anger him enough to start a fight. Ballafex was known for many things, but most importantly he was known for being a teacher to humans. Viewing them not as their own separate existence and rather closely intertwined with nature itself, as a very part of the earth. It was also for this reason he would spend much of his time here in Rome picking up the slumbering human bodies he came across and moving them off to the sides of the roads and streets. If anything did manage to happen he would at least like for them to be directly out of the way.

“This crap is ridiculous... hey! What the fuck are you doing?” Eva called out to a group of claimants who looked to be on the brink of exchanging blows. Of course, none of them paid her any mind. “Oh, so that’s how it’s going to be?” 


“You should probably intervein. Just for the sake of having everyone know you’re doing your job,” Koven spoke as he watched his sister pick up the heftiest stone she could find on the ground. 


“Shut your dumb ass up. If they can’t follow the first order then they don’t get second chances. Perhaps they should pay more attention!” 


She tossed the stone, about the size of a fist, as if attempting to take off one of their heads. It was obvious that was her intention, as the stone smashed against the side of one of the claimant’s heads. It didn’t do an extreme amount of damage, but it was enough to cause a stagger and gather their attention. This was when they turned to see Eva standing furiously in the middle of the road. Needless to say, none of them were impressed. 


“Who is this little girl?” 


“Who is what?” she spoke as she approached at a quick pace. “Disperse, trash! Or I’ll have you all kneel as you properly should!” 


“This kid is cray. Did you just throw a rock at one of us?” 


“Damn, is that more than five seconds of not following my orders? Let me help you then. Kneel!” she spoke as they all fell to their hands and knees. It was at that moment she reached down drew a sword from one of the claimant’s sides, lifting it into the air as if preparing to strike them all down. “Your punishment for insubordination will be death!” 


It was a correct and proper execution, one that only royalty could deal and yet she was surprised to find that the weapon was stopped before it collided with her target. She looked at the blade, held in place by a hand which did not bleed, what seemed like sand crumpling from the palm where the sharp edge was held tightly. She could only question why Koven did not act immediately. 


“Come now, there’s no need for that. Everyone makes mistakes. What’s important is that we learn from them,” of course it would be him. 


“Stay out of my way, Ballafex. These clowns seem to believe they can do whatever they want.” 


“Well, I’m sure they realize that isn’t the case anymore. Isn’t that right?” he spoke as the claimants nodded profusely. “See? Now let them go, Evagelyne.” 


“You are a thorn in my side I will cut and burn with the flames of death. Get the fuck up, and get the fuck out of my face,” she spoke to which the claimants all quickly got up and scattered in different directions. “That goes for you too asshole. The next time you even think to touch a weapon in my hands I will have you kill yourself.” 


“I will try to remember that.” 


“And NEVER use my full name again. You don’t deserve that courtesy, peasant!” 


“I will try to remember that as well. Stay safe, Eva.” 


“Shut up and go die somewhere!” 


It was only slightly shocking as she watched the male seemingly vanish. It wasn’t his own ability which caused it, but instead it almost seemed out of his control entirely. Something which had been done on occasion and yet not something she had ever seen happen so suddenly. 


“Koven! Where are you?” she called out to which she received no answer. “Are you serious? Goddamned asshole.” 
Meanwhile, looking down from the rooftops down onto the street stood a shadow taken human form. Eyes as red as rubies gazing down at the girl’s every step. Eva did not care to hurry or put herself through any more stress than was needed. It was because of this that she believed it would be a simple task to watch over her. 


“Koven.” 


“Yes, aunt May?” the boy responded. 


“There should be no major problems, but things may not go as smoothly forever. A lot of the ancients chose to uphold peace, but some did not agree with those terms. Specifically, Novevu and Xainayne.” 


“Does that mean those claimants will be dangerous? Should I treat them as immediate threats?” 


“No, that will only cause problems. The only death claimant who is confirmed in Rome is DeVian, who will no doubt always be in close proximity of Stasia.” 


“Two people who would be an annoyance to deal with. Even if I am an Aikekunai, it would be bold to assume I could take on two at once. And with Stasia here I’ll assume Verin is here as well?” 


Mayray took a moment to absorb the facts. It was easy to forget that Koven was also an aikekunai. He played an important role in Audo’s plans, his previous life going as far as to set up his own death just to fulfill that purpose. However, he was never the strongest person and was never meant to be seen as an aikekunai. That was the role of his sister. Yvaxiphoria, daughter of Audomattadjia, currently acting under the name of Evagelyne and living as the order aikekunai in her brother’s place. All for the sake of getting close, all for the sake of learning more. All for the sake of their desired future. Koven’s orders become law, and as such it was only natural that he would act as her true voice when she gave those orders. 


“You will refrain from fighting at all costs with any of them. Your physical strength might not be anywhere near its peak, but your orders are capable of changing the course of most things. We both know they become less effective against people who rank higher than you, and if you try to order other Aikekunai it will only work for a moment. It’s a card you cannot play right now, so hold off on using them in combat unless you must.” 


“I will. For now, I will observe and act as I must to assure my sister’s safety.” 


“Good, I’ll be taking my leave... there is also one more person in this city you won’t need to worry about as much, but it will be good to have you know she’s around.” 


“Who might this person be?” 
“Yeah, hello?” Gabi spoke as she leaned back in her seat. “Yeah, I’m already here. This place is fucking horrendous.” 


“Don’t be so upset, sweetie. I know you wanted to stay at the other place, but it seems your sister got to it first.” 


“She's not my sister! What I don’t know is why everyone keeps telling me to stay away from her.” 


“Well, that’s simple, it’s because you don’t like her... at all. Are you meaning to tell me you wouldn’t try to start a fight the moment you spotted her? That’s trouble we currently don’t need. Barely anyone even knows you exist, save for close friends and important people, but you know all of that.” 


“Everyone knows I exist! I’m a media sensation, a star! Some people are just too stupid to realize I’m a claimant.” 


“Yes. And your father and I have gone to great lengths to assure that. Tonight, however, I suppose that doesn’t matter. Just try to refrain from revealing your relationship with your father and I unless you absolutely have to.” 


“Fine... I still think I should just level that entire building.” 


“Again, you cannot destroy the building DeVian and Stasia are using just because you wanted it for yourself.” 


“Why not? I fucking hate her! Did you know I’m sharing a room with Verin? Verin?! She didn’t even want her sister in the same place! You should all just let me kill her and maybe we’ll get a better one next time.” 


“I’m likin’ this one more and more! If the lass keeps it up, she may just rival ya in ruthlessness!” 


“Oh quiet. I’m not that bad.” 


“The fuck? Who was that?” Gabi questioned her mother as she leaned forward in her seat. “Do you have me on speaker?” 


“Tell the lass to come over here, meetin’ her sounds like a feckin riot!” 


“Sorry dear, I’ve just been patrolling with an old mentor of mine. Shut the fuck up Haden.” 


“Haden?” 


“Patrol my arse, don’t lie to the lass! We’ve been drinkin’ for the past hour. We’ll get around to searchin’ for shite after we’re done here.” 


“Damnit Haden!” 


“Oh, so you can go drinking with work buddies, but I can’t knock down a building with an enemy inside of it?” 


“It’s one of the biggest buildings in the city! Of course not, and I will not say it again! Now then, I’m going back to patrolling-” 


“Patrollin’ she says.” 


“Shut up! Let me know if you need any help or anything. Bye my little raven.” 


“Bye mom.” 


Just as quickly as the call ended did Gabi rise to her feet and drag a chair out to the balcony which Verin stood. There was no need to exchange words, so she did not. The winged woman simply lifted the chair and tossed it out into the distance. Where it landed could be someone else’s surprise for all she cared. 


“What the fuck? Are you crazy?” Verin questioned her to which Gabi sighed and slumped her shoulders. 


“I just want someone dead. Is that too much to ask?” 


“Psychopath.” 


“A beautiful psychopath,” she spoke as her eyes lit up with excitement. A smile as devilish as could possibly be mustered by the woman as she gazed out upon the changes taking place within the city. “That’s more like what I wanted to see. Lizbett!” 


“Yes ma’am?” the woman responded as she rushed to her. 


“Bring my guns, I want both of them!” 


“Of course, ma’am.” 


As the woman left to retrieve the weapons Gabi could not help but marvel at the structure which rose in the distance. No doubt this would be exactly the type of thing she was looking for, and hopefully she would come to find a proper challenge at the place, but for now she could only watch as stone rose from the earth. It was on a scale the likes of which she had never seen before, something entirely out of a horror film crafted by humans. A construct of devastating stature, blackened stone and bedrock come together in the shape of what she could only call a tower. However, the design looked completely unnatural. Almost as if it were crafted by something outside of their realm, outside of their existence, as if the one making it saw beyond what could be made by the average mind. Perhaps it was for that reason it looked to be a place where living monsters no doubt would reside. 


“Here you are, Gabi,” the woman spoke as she approached with the two shotguns in hand. 


“Thank you, dear. Watch over my things while I’m gone,” she spoke before turning to Verin. “It goes without saying I’m going to check that thing out. Call me, but only if something important happens.” 


With those few words she was gone. Out to have a closer look at what looked to be a construct crafted to house an alien deity. 
His eyes were glued to the scene, his face riddled with confusion unearthed beneath the normally relaxed gaze. He could not understand it, could not fathom it, why this was happening the way it had. He looked on, having been whisked away from his current task on such short notice. It was all so obvious and yet things were not turning out as they should. It was because of this that Ballafex, as he looked directly into his ancient’s eyes, was more conflicted than ever before. Not just because his ancient seemed relieved, but because of the reaction which the other claimants of his house. 


“I don’t get it,” Marjorie whom he was stood next to at the time turned to see the claimant’s face. It seemed as if she were the only claimant who had even noticed him speak. “What are they all celebrating for? As if this conclusion is proper.” 


There was no time for the champion to get a hold of him before he was sent back to where he had once been along with everyone else. There he found himself, standing on the streets of Rome, although he barely even noticed. His eyes were still forward. 


“Flori... Flori!” he called out, but received no answer. He could almost feel the severing of what connection he had with the ancient. “Impossible.” 


He wanted to cry out, but to whom? He wanted to plead for the answers he desired, but who would give them? It was unexpected, like something that was always a possibility and yet he had believed it to be nothing more than a falsehood draped in empty words. At least that was what he thought until today. 


“What a... what a,” he stammered out as he fell to his knees. His palms against the ground, he watched on as his skin cracked and crumbled. “What a farce. What diabolical treatment, what horrendous despair. Is not earth everything? Does not everything reside upon the land provided? What say you?!” 


He cried out to anyone that might answer, but who would hear him with the answer he sought out? 


“He always seemed to act as if he were dealt an unfortunate hand. Almost as if he felt everyone were staring at him through blazing eyes and with hardened hearts. Perhaps, I was a fool to have doubted him,” he spoke as he dug his hand into the earth and pulled from it his rifle and bayonet. “No. I was certainly a fool to have doubted him. If I desire proper justice, then just as he I must force it out.” 


He began down the roads, a dust steadily rising about him as he proceeded further. Each step ate away at the minerals beneath his feet, pulling traces of earth from the structures around him as the dust formed a thick haze about his area, following him with every step he took. It didn’t even seem as if he were walking on the ground anymore, as if walking in the dust itself as he proceeded forward. It was easy enough to tell by the look on his face. He did not seem angry. Instead, he looked more disappointed than that, as if he had expected far better from those he saw as most capable. 
“What?” he spoke as if insulted in some way. 


“I said I don’t know how you managed to get your freedom from the Prism, but that doesn’t matter right now-” 


“Yeah, I know it doesn’t matter. What I’m askin’ is what you said after that?” 


“Evyette, go and find her! No one has time to play games with you.” 


“The fuck?” he spoke as a deep laugh escaped his throat. “Alright, I got you. I’ll definitely find her. You can count on that. But don’t get the wrong idea. Things ain’t the same as they once were.” 


“Is that supposed to mean you’re still as weak as before?” 


“It means that I give as much of a fuck about you now as I did the last time I saw you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go about doing the job of your lackluster lackeys. Just like old times, huh?” 


“You know your father is one of the people I sent, right?” he laughed in response just as he did before. 


“Yup. Just like old times.” 


He exited the bar in a casual manor, a yawn escaping him as he slipped his arms into his coat sleeves. On the inside he was clearly pissed, coming to the knowledge that Evyette had simply just been demoted the way she had been. On the outside however... he was equally as pissed, black flames turbulently dancing over his frame as the echoes of his footsteps accompanied him along his way. On one hand he didn’t believe it would be difficult to find her, but on the other hand he did not know just how well hidden she was. One thing was certain, however. He had the perfect person to call for help.


“Come on guys, I didn’t mean it! I promise!” Nier spoke as he maneuvered his way through a fight he found himself in. Perhaps they were not familiar with him, but what was he kidding. No one knew him for anything more than fawning over Chaemai. “I said I was sorry!” 


“Are you fucking crazy?!” 


“You can’t just attack us then apologize for it!” 


“It was a joke! A joke! I didn’t even hit anyone with those knives! Oh, wait.” He reached into his pocket and retrieved his phone before looking to see the familiar name he hadn’t seen in a long time. “Hellfire, how’s it going brother?” 


“No time for games, I need you to... are you in a fight?” 


“What? Oh yeah, I upset a few people. Nothing too serious.” 


“Sure. Anyway, I need to call in a favor.” 


“Oh my. You know what the price of that favor is, right? I’m going to need to... what? Wait a second.” There was a long pause before he began speaking again. “Alright. What was I saying?” 


“Did you just kill those people?” 


“Of course not! I just knocked them out for a little bit.” 


“Hmph, sure. You were talking about the favor?” 


“Oh yeah, the favor. I’m going to need both you and Evyette’s ring sizes. I will accept nothing less.” 


“If you can manage to find her location before me then by all means. But I’m not gonna do a damn if I find her first. Not that I don’t already believe I’ll be doing a better job at this than you. Just make a few calls, ask a few questions, and get back to me. Also, let me know if anything happens to Gabi or Eva. I heard they were both out there, and I’ll come if I have to.” 


“That’s probably not a good idea.” 


“Yeah, no fuck. That’s why I said if I have to. Evyette is currently more important anyway.” 


The phone hanging up was Nier’s sign that he was now left undisturbed. He looked down at the unconscious frames which now laid upon the ground. A sigh escaped his lips as he continued on his path of information gathering. For someone like him that was the first of things that needed seeing to. While he was here on official business given by Nammay it didn’t mean he would be doing things any differently from his normal work. And as always, things were going well. 


So far, he had come to discover that both DeVian and Stasia were present in the city. If it were just Stasia he might have contemplated killing her, but that would make the point of no violence null. Even if he chose to target DeVian that would result in the same, even if Novevu had refrained from agreeing with the others. Speaking of which, Xainayne’s own Verin was present as well and joined by Gabi. Both were wildcards in his eyes, and both needed to be watched closely. Harm coming to them might be enough to start a war. An air claimant he had heard little about, one of Evyette’s who seems like they’ll be joined by Shinzo. Taking the samurai into account was impossible without bringing up Haden. And he was currently with one Cyva, who could be the most dangerous asset at play yet also the one who warranted the least worry. 


For now, he simply typed a bit on his phone before slipped the item into his pocket before continuing on his way. He had done enough searching for the time being. Now, he would simply go about looking for the item of everyone’s desires. Whatever Echowix was doing here he planned to find it first. He had two ancients counting on him, after all. 
“I told ya we’d get lost if I listened to yer directions,” she hissed out the words as she pressed her palm against her forehead. “What an imbecile I am, trustin’ my directions to a mouse!” 


The mouse looked at her only the way a person sick of her shit could. A few aggressive squeaks were all he could muster out at the woman before pointing down another road. 


“Well, no I don’t know where we are. But that don’t change the fact we’ve been walkin’ around fer hours! My feets are startin’ to ache from all this.” 


The mouse squeaked at her a few more times, crawling across her shoulders as it sniffed the air and pointed down another street. As much as she was complaining, she certainly listened to every single direction the little mouse gave. 


“Dex, I swear. I’m not used to walkin’ around like this and ya know it.” 


Another subtle squeak. 


“I know the humans are asleep, but I ain’t gonna go slitherin’ about the streets like a snake. Who knows what kind of attention that might bring to us!” 


More squeaks followed by the mouse raising its hands into the air. 


“I mean... yeah, I suppose not havin’ been knocked out with the other humans is enough to catch the attention of others. But that don’t change the fact that we’re still,” she paused as the mouse pointed her directly to a building. “Oh! Would ya look at that! What would I do without ya, little rascal?” 


The mouse rolled its eyes, tucking itself into the multitude of curly hairs upon her head before she stepped into the building. While she had just arrived, it was clear that the people had to be claimants. As she and Dex had just discussed, they would be the only ones left awake. However, it was at this time that she decided to do something that would no doubt be a horrible thing for someone like her to do. She would interact with them. While she thought it would be a smart move, Dex knew it would be far too difficult for someone like her. Especially when she was properly on her meds. 


“Yo, my peoples. How are ya doin’?” It was horrible! Worse than he had initially imagined it being! It’s like she was drunk but wide awake! “I am Kel. I mean, Anna. I mean, Lamia. Fuck!” 


She took a deep breath, her forked tongue flicking out to which she came to a sudden realization. One of them was a fire claimant. If she made the wrong move and they decided to make things too hot she’d start to hallucinate. She couldn’t fight like that! And so, she decided to keep it cool. Or at least as cool as someone like her could possibly muster. The attempt already falling apart as she leaned against the desk which was occupied by another claimant. 


“My name is Kel-Anna. Kel fer short.” 


Neither Stephani nor Vivian could possibly fathom what had just taken place. They could only watch on and feel sorry for Florita who had apparently been left with no other choices better than this girl. Meanwhile Kel-Anna had completely believed she nailed the introduction. First impressions were everything, and she had certainly succeeded in that. 


“Now then. I would like a room, if ya please good person,” she spoke as she handed the order claimant a card. 


“This is a rewards card for... a videogame store?” 


“Ah! Wait! Hold on a second,” she spoke as she shuffled through her pockets to no avail. “It turns out, I don’t have any money. Would it happen that Florita mentioned my comin’,” she questioned them only to receive her card back along with a shake of the head. “Well, that is a problem.” 


The mouse quickly scurried from its hiding space to only do what looked and sounded like yelling at the nature claimant. To her it was rather normal, but to everyone else it was nothing more than the sight of a mouse reprimanding someone for forgetting to bring their wallet. 


“I know, I know. Nothin’ fer it now. No need fussin’ over it,” she spoke as she pulled a blunt from her pocket and placed it between her lips. “We’ll slither around town and find somethin’ to do.” 


The mouse quickly slapped the item from her mouth to the ground and picked it up before running about the lobby with Kel-Anna hot in pursuit. 


“Damnit, ya fuckin’ rat! I oughta eat ya for this!” she called out after the creature as she tumbled around attempting to capture the mouse. 
He stepped forward, looking down at one of the humans which laid unconscious upon the ground. It wasn’t the type of look you’d get from someone who cared. Instead, it lacked any form of enthusiasm or pleasure. There rested nothing more than disappointment in knowing that he would not be capable of seeing their faces as he went about his work in its full capacity. His frame was that of stone, his face carrying no features of which could be understood. No eyes, no ears, no mouth, nothing outside of the cragged and rugged earth of gray coloration. He opened his palm, sharpened fingers spread outward before clasping them into a tight fist. In doing so the very ground seemed to open up like some jagged maw and crush the human now made corpse within. It was as if the very earth had devoured them itself. 


“Now rise, golem of mine. Let stone, and mortar, and dust, and blood become your frame. Let death and despair be your guide. Rise from the mire and do my bidding.” 


With his words the blood and flesh seemed to almost soak into the shifting ground. Then, seconds later, from the very spot the earth would rise up in the form of a monstrosity. Arms long and thin with several fingers more akin to blades on each, legs with no feet and rather sharpened points which hit the ground with sharp pings. Its torso was thin and almost looked as if it could fall apart at any second, yet of course it did not adhere to such a thing. The earth from which it was built soaked in blood, making it look to be made from a dark and murky reddish gray and the bones and organs of the human which once existed a graft into its being. Ribs protruding from its chest cavity, bones peeking from under the surface of its limbs, fresh meat visible all over, but most importantly rested the human’s skull upon its shoulders. A longer than average neck holding it up straight, stone barely covering it as horns of pure onyx broke through the bone and jutted out to either side. It did not move, did not react, did not act. 


“Good and proper work. A being of which only I might create. Only I might dig from the mire of earth. Now, all you need is a final touch,” he spoke as he reached forward and dug his finger into the remaining eye which rested in the construct’s skull. He drew it outward, crushing it in his palm before using the blood to carve a red symbol onto its forehead. “Now then, with this you are complete. Awaken creature of despair, general of my invasion. Your name will be Harrow.” 


Upon receiving those words the creation began to shake, as if being brought to life in that very moment with its limbs snapping and churning. The bones could be heard creaking, some breaking as its limbs twisted to life, its jaw gaping open in a way which suggested pain. 


“Good, it seems I’ve made proper use of the vocal cords. So, tell me, my creation. Speak, and relinquish unto me how you are feeling.” 


“I... I... I am,” the golem stammered out in a female voice, as if struggling to make the words proper. “I am... pain... extreme... pain...” 


“Does this pain disturb you?” 


“It... does not...” 


“Good. Then you will be the first of many. Now watch on, my creation,” he spoke as his feet rose from the ground. “Marvel at the sight of my creation! Bear witness to the monument of despair I bring! Will shall drown this place in distress! Condemn these lowly creatures to the darkest mire, the agony which resides behind their courage. We shall take their corpses and from them build up an army of the vilest dregs. Then, and only then, will they come to understand fear.” 


With his own rise from the ground, so too did the earth before him shift and stir. Arms outstretched he would shape the earth into a greater structure, a monument, a citadel of his own. A tower which rose from the darkest earth, taking the form of crags and celestial apprehension. To him it was an icon, a marvel, something to be praised for its greater design. To others? Nothing more than a foreboding icon looming in the distance. It could not be properly understood or registered without complications or confusion. An unnerving feeling drawn from the very sight of it. Its design more akin to that of what one would call the nightmarish abode of a clandestine Great One, but was that not normal for someone who had seen what he saw? 


“This will do for the time being. I was told to simply cause a stir, so anything larger than this might attract too much attention... now then. As for you,” he spoke as he descended back down to his golem. However, this time he refrained from allowing his feet to touch the ground. 


“My... master...” 


“You have a very important job, my creation.” 


“What will... you have me... do?” 


“Go forth, cause a stir, kill to heart’s content. That pain you feel? Smear it across the bodies of anyone and everyone you come across. No mercy. No morality. And when they are unable to fight back any longer you will simply cry out so that I might hear. Then I will craft them into your brethren.” 


“Yes my... master...” 


With those orders the golem proceeded to hobble down the road in a manner which suggested a struggle to move, but it didn’t take long before it began sprinting at high speeds. It wasn’t until it had no longer remained in his sight that Famine chose to make his way to the top of what would currently act as his camp, but it also wasn’t long until he could hear it echo in the distance. A scream, or rather a blood curdling howl, the likes of which only one of his nightmares could make. He could only laugh as he looked down on the city of Rome from his throne of anxiety. 


“Perfect. It seems I’ll be getting some fun out of this yet.” 
“Maybe we should go and check out what that thing is in the distance,” Cyva spoke as she placed down the glass she had been drinking from. Haden simply scoffed at the idea. 


“There isn’t a single point in that lass. Ya know it’s probably just one of Flori’s kin tryin’ to be a bother. Let the order brats deal with it. I’m sure the lads need somethin’ to do anyway.” 


“You say that, but it has been there for quite some time and it doesn’t seem like anyone has even approached it. Not to mention that crazy scream we heard a while ago right after it was put up. You don’t think it’s odd that they would go about building something like that out of nowhere? The Kinoz did agree to no conflict, after all. Besides, something about it doesn’t seem right. It barely even looks like normal earth.” 


“You’re thinkin’ on it too much. I ain’t gonna worry about it. We’ve still got a job to handle, so leave it to the peacekeepers and put it off your mind.” 


“That’s easy for you to say. Four of my own loves are currently in this city. If something were to happen to them I might just-” 


She paused as they both heard the sound of quickly approaching footsteps. The scent of Naiick’s house wafting on the air let them know who exactly it was, but the moment they came into view it was clear that something was awry. They were injured, holding onto a damaged arm and running with a leg damaged just as badly. It was to neither Haden nor Cyva’s surprise when they fell to the ground with a groan. 


“What the feckin’ hell?” 


“Hey, what happened to-” Haden quickly stopped her and pulled her behind the bar before she could finish speaking, or give away their position. 


“Be quiet.” 


“What do you think you’re doing?” 


“I said quiet, lass. Look.” 


Following his words, she peaked over the counter at the claimant who struggled to their feet. Their weapon was still clutched tightly in their uninjured hand. It was a handgun she did not get the chance to properly examine before he was promptly charged down by what looked like a large hound made from stone and bone. Then four more rushed the claimant as well. 


He attempted to fire on them, the bullets landing yet seeming to have little to no effect. The moment the canine skull which rested on one of their heads clasped around his ankle the claimant was dragged back down onto the ground, and it was then that the stone hounds crowded his position and began tearing him limb from limb. Their screams could be heard as Haden chose to look away. Cyva, on the other hand, did not flinch or waver as she looked on at the gruesome sight. However, it wasn’t until the creatures ceased their assault and backed away that she found herself wanting to hide away. The very same howl they had been hearing at a distance, now just outside of their building. It made her ears ring, her jaw ache, her eyes water, as if someone were having death throws right outside, and yet that was not the case at all as the first golem approached the now dilapidated body which rested on the ground, barely breathing. 


“All for... my master... you... will become one... of us.” 


Cyva nearly vomited in her mouth, the sight of the very earth churning beneath the claimant and grinding him into the very gravel and cement beneath their feet. It was horrific, and yet not nearly as horrific as the bloodied stone creature which emerged from where the corpse once was. Alongside the stone hounds which were covered in blood and gore with the skulls of dogs, now stood another golem who looked to be barely capable of standing. Reddened stone and bone melded together with flesh, the long brunette hair which once rested upon the claimant’s head now covering the skull which was now this creation’s own, clawed hands and feet with a tail that looked to be made from the claimant’s spine. It was at this point that an order claimant approached, no doubt due to the screams which were heard. 


“What the hell is this? Your houses both agreed to refrain for these types of actions! Stand down immediately?” 


“How... bold of you... to assume...” 


“What are you talking about? You’ll be answering for this murder,” the claimant spoke as they approached. It was at this time Cyva could get a decent sight of them. Male, taller than her clearly, but that only made it shockingly more obvious as to just how much taller these things were. 


“Holy fuck, that thing is almost double my size,” she spoke as Haden drew his gun. 


“Well stay hidden so we don’t have to deal with it. I don’t even want to look at the things.” 


“Bold... of you... to assume you have... the same authority... of my master...” 


Those were the words exchanged before the golem raised its clawed hand to strike. The order claimant quickly jumped out of the way, swinging his sword towards the golem’s midsection where he would find a clean connect. The weapon now buried deep into the golem’s stomach, or what one might call its stomach. 


“My master,” it began as the claimant watched on in what had quickly become horror. 


“Are those, real bones?” 


“My master ordains... that you experience... terror!” 


It was over as quickly as it began, the golem’s fingers stabbing directly through their body before lifting the claimant into the air. It was there where they would remain for a brief moment before being tossed to the side where they staggered against the ground. The golem, with talons now drenched in blood, approached the other freshly crafted stone construct and carved upon its skull the same symbol which was visible upon its own before letting out another howl and standing by for several seconds. It only took those few seconds for the body to begin creaking and shaking, as if stifled by its own existence before inevitably falling flat on its face. Steadily it picked itself back up, rising to its feet where it now stood alongside the first golem. 


“You... belong to the master... I... belong to the master... we... are the... vanguard,” it spoke before pointing one of the bladelike fingers towards the order claimant which was still struggling to stand to their feet. “WE kill... for the master... WE sing... for the master... WE feel pain and WE give pain... for the master... now create death... for the master... and sing... that he might know...” 


With those words the newly formed golem stepped forward, slowly and carefully, as if gathering its bearings, just before diving forward as great speeds. The claimant attempted to defend themself, but there was no chance as the golem tore away at him until his flesh barely clung to bone. Tenacity be damned as he still clung to life, Cyva straining every fiber of her being to resist the urge to help, but as the creature leaned back with the bones in its chest cracking under the pressure did she find herself once again frozen in place. The howl this one released like that of a man who was forced to die in the most gruesome manner over and over again for all eternity. 


“Whoever you are, you won’t get away with this,” the claimant spoke as he struggled to even remain conscious.” 


“I am... Harrow... you are... one of us...” 


It didn’t take long before the earth beneath him wrapped around his frame, like a hand sprouting from the ground under his feet. What then took place was no doubt a painful end, their body being dragged into the solid earth without comfort, without mercy, without peace, as their screams turned to gargles, and then silence accompanying the crunching of bone and the sloshing of meat and sinew. Then, from the puddle of blood upon the earth, rose another stone golem. An odd mix between what looked to be a creature and a human, hunched forward on all fours with sharpened bones covered in stone protruding all over. The skull now malformed and its teeth in the shape of large fangs. That was when the first golem approached and dipped its fingers into the pool of blood at its feet to carve out the same mark on its skull. 


“Now... you are... kin... go and... find more meat... for our master...” 


The newly formed golem began to move, just as the last had, before shaking about as if uncapable of remaining still. They stood for a moment as if listening for something which could not be heard before the stone hounds sped down the road and the three golems all went their own separate ways. The first continuing down the road as the other two climbed their way up buildings and out of sight. It wasn’t until she was sure they were alone that she finally spoke. 


“Haden, I have no idea what I just saw.” 


“Yeah, maybe ya shouldn’t have been lookin’! I ain’t gonna have anything to do with those feckin things, that’s for certain!” he spoke as he gathered himself and rose to his feet. 


“We should call this in. This could be something no one here is capable of handling alone. Can you get ahold of Shinzo?” 


“I’m gonna assume he’ll show up in Rome eventually. Until then I doubt he’ll answer any calls while he’s talkin’ to his damn mother.” 


“Gahbreal has business to take care of as well, I doubt he will show up even if I could get to him... perhaps we should search out the nearby Aikekunai. If they know about this, they may have some means of resolving the issue. Or at least the ancients might listen to them long enough to do something.” 


“Aye. You’re not wrong. They may intervein if their favorites are in danger.” 


“My thought exactly, and that makes our target a simple find.” 


“Who are ya thinkin’ lass?” 


“We’re going to go pay one of my esteemed daughters a visit,” Cyva spoke as she stepped out and surveyed the area. “If we find her, based on what Gabi said, we’ll no doubt find DeVian with her.” 
“Welcome, sir! As I have been informing all the others, everyone else has been knocked unconscious. I am here to welcome all claimants and Aikekunai, as well as inform you that this place will be acting as a base for everyone. So long as you keep things-” 


“So, it seems I’m in the right place.” 


“Excuse me, sir?” interrupted again? 


The heavy sound of boots across the floor told a tale of terrible of his journey to the building. Each step left a fading footprint in blood behind as he approached the order claimant who acted as greeter and informer. He wore anormal pair of dark blue jeans along with dark brown boots which looked to have been walking through corpses before his arrival. A tucked in black shirt and bulletproof vest rested under an unzipped hoodie of the same color, the hood resting on his head, his hands covered in worn out gloves and a short sword hanging from his belt. That too was covered in fresh blood. He casually stopped just short of the order claimant. 


“How many claimants have arrived so far?” 


“I have no obligation to give that information. I must also request that you keep things peaceful.” 


It was odd. The entire situation. It hadn’t been a problem at all up to this point, but there was no telling what house he belonged to. There was no scent on him, or rather he carried the faint scent of multiple houses, nothing stood out enough to give him away.  


“You’re as useless as they come,” he spoke as he removed the hood from his head to reveal a gaze that suggested he hated him entirely. Not just due to his answer, but rather before they had even met. His head was closely shaved with a full beard of medium length. He also looked as if he hadn’t slept in days. 


“I apologize, sir. However, if you could you please tell me what house you belong to then we may get you sorted out and into a room.” The faster the better with this one. 


“My house? I belong to the house of Karr.” 


“That’s not a proper house, sir. I’m going to need to ask that you take this seriously?” 


“This is why I hate claimants. You all seem to act without the slightest regard for those you trample beneath your feet. How quickly you all forget,” he spoke as he reached into his hoodie and drew from it a handgun the size of which did not look as if it properly made sense. 


“What are you doing? All but two of the houses agreed to remain peaceful!” 


“You just said it yourself, didn’t you? My house isn’t a proper house you know of. Just as my ancestors and those before them, I will do my family’s work.” 


The projectile fired from the gun tore through the claimant with little issue, the hole left in their body as they fell to the ground a marvel of raw damage that was also displayed in the crack which snapped in their ears when he pulled the trigger. He pulled back the bolt on the handgun and allowed the now empty bullet casing to fall to the ground, placing the bolt in the same hand as the gun before reaching into his hood and pulling out another large cartridge. He looked down at the male who now stammered and gasped on the ground, not dead yet clearly close to that fate. 


“I suppose this is why Levei gave me those new bullets. I suppose I should use those from now on to make things easier for myself,” he spoke as he placed the new round into the bolt and loaded his handgun before placing it back under his hoodie. “Sorry about that, my own bullets are gathered from battlefields you claimants have used in the past. While killing you all with your own weapons is effective, that doesn’t mean it’s easy, and most of you can just heal yourselves back up. I have to be accurate, thorough, precise, perfect.” 


“Levei? Who are you?” the order claimant spoke as the male drew the sword from his side and held it with the blade pointing downward at the claimant. 


“Don’t be so naïve, claimant. And who am I kidding? I’m not sorry at all. If anything, I’m sorry for myself. Lacking the satisfaction of knowing that your family won’t be present to watch you die as you all should.” 


His way of doing things were twofold with the sword. He did not trust the ways in which claimants could heal and as such did not trust their ability to die normally. It was due to this that he had come to learn two methods of slaying his targets. Beheading, and utterly destroying their hearts. Not knowing if certain claimants were capable of surviving the former or the latter alone, he always chose to do them both. This was why he plunged the blade into the order claimant’s chest and twisted it about violently before lifting the sword skyward and slicing directly through their neck. The motionless silence was what he needed to know that they were dead and done in. 


“I believe in no gods for they would have saved us from you. I believe in no mercies for those have been robbed away. I do not believe in your ancient lies, nor do I believe in your Elysian and your Void. I believe in the beginning of life and I believe in the end of the very same. Die and become nothing, just as my family has. Ashes to ashes.” 


He placed his sword back within its scabbard before reaching into the pocket of his hoodie where he retrieved a fragmentation grenade, and the only one in his possession. Normally it would be useless against claimants, the only real things which carried any form of effective use being the tools he had come to either craft or do extensive research on, but it would certainly be useful for one particular measure today. He pressed the button for the elevator and watched as the door opened, pulling the pin just as the door began to close and tossing the item inside before backing away to cover himself. The loud boom shook the floor around him, but that just meant he had successfully put the elevator out of proper use. Now he could go about doing his business without the thought of anyone slipping by him too easily. 


He placed the hood back over his head. His gun drawn and held steadily in his right hand; the hilt of his sword squeezed tightly between his fingers. He did not shake or falter as he began to ascend the stairwell to reach the next floor. He’d take this slow, or as slowly as he wanted to. Snuffing out whatever claimant were within the building as they either came his way upon discovering the elevator to be useless or simply waited without a care for him to do his proper duty. Of course, there would be some who could just fly or possibly survive jumping out of the building from the upper floors, but that wouldn’t alter his plan. He was wearing the title of Claimant Hunter after all, and the last of his line. If they tried to escape then he’d just have to hunt them down.

“You can’t be serious… of all the shit that could happen right now.”


A sigh escaped his lips as he chewed through the piece of toast, his hands scrambling through drawers of papers and files as he prepared for the inevitable. He had been sitting around enjoying the peace and quiet until his mother had contacted him, something about him ‘needing to see the news’, but it only turned out to be more of a pain than he had anticipated.


“You know he’ll be calling on you soon. You’re one of the only people he can really rely on.”


“I know mom, but that won’t make it anymore safe. I suppose I should be preparing for travel. And I was hoping to visit Chaemai today.”


“This is more important, you know?”


“Oh my, something more important than Chaemai? I think not.”


“Just get yourself together, Nier. Nammay is most likely expecting you.”


He closed the cabinets and drawers, a slip of paper with rather stylized writing on it along with a signature only he would be capable of putting to proper use. Tucking it into his pocket and reaching out to his weapons which rose into the air before settling at his sides, he let out a groan and rubbed his eyes. An attempt to clear away the grogginess to no avail. He’d have to sleep while on the way no doubt, but then again he could always hope that Nammay would send someone else instead of him. However he was always prepared to do whatever the ancient of metal asked of him without question, and that was why he found himself in the Gulf standing before this father figure.


“I’m sure you’ve already seen what’s going on.”


“Yes lord Nammay, do you need me to handle it?”


“You really need to stop calling me that, but as expected you understood the situation. While I could send anyone else I would prefer you handle this. There’s no telling what might happen and I’d rather avoid as many problems as possible.”


“Well if that’s the case it’s only natural that I’m sent out, I suppose. Hopefully I don’t run into anymore Aikekunai. It would be a hassle having to deal with anyone else other than Gahbreal. Although I'm certain Novevu will have DeVian deal with this.”


“As important as this is I don’t see any other Dimea aside from him being sent. That may serve to be a problem for everyone else involved, but if Xainayne is taking this as seriously as he should then it may be unavoidable.”

“Absolutely not.”


“And why is that? You act as if this isn’t a serious matter.”


“Oh, I know it’s serious, but I don’t really fucking care either. My answer remains no.”


“You can’t continue to coddle the girl forever, Gahbreal. She will eventually be pulled into the fray and both of us know that she’s more than capable of fending for herself. Even more than most claimants can say. Besides, Verin will also be present so she will not be alone.”


“You do realize what’s going to happen if anything happens to my daughter… correct?”


“Of course I do, but you have important things to take care of and there aren’t many others who can be relied upon. I’m certain everyone will expect you to be there, but you will continue on with your normal duties and leave this up to Verin and Gahbriogyva.”


“…tell her to come here. Immediately.”


The ancient wasted no time calling upon the girl. Having expected Gahbreal to put up much more of a fight before deciding to agree, this was going smoother than expected and if it could be resolved quickly then that would be all the better. The two stood in silence for a moment under the canopy of the tent, a place of confusion and madness for anyone else and yet a home above all other homes for the present two. Then, right before them, a vestige od darkness began to form like a cocoon of black feathers. They spread open like an ill omen upon all things present and revealed to be within was none other than the girl herself. She looked to be rather calm, yet agitated. The same look held within her eyes that her father currently sported and as she gave them both a disagreeing look it only became more apparent how serious they were. How often had she seen that look upon her father’s face?


“So then. What is this about? I was rather busy with my own work, so the faster we get this over with the better.”


“Your work doesn’t matter right now. You’re being called upon.”


“Excuse me? My work is everything, and I would appreciate it if you didn’t—”


Her father placed his hands on her shoulders. They were heavy, as if keeping her grounded and tether the ground beneath their feet. His eyes were a stark red which only fed into the madness resting behind her own. This was serious.


“Focus. Your work can wait. There’s no need to play dumb, I know you’ve most likely been informed about the events in Rome. You will be going there immediately.”


“Wait. I’m going? You are serious?”


“You will refrain from combat at all costs! This is not a request, your actions here carry more weight than just your own affairs. I know how you fight and we must avoid killing the claimants of other houses to make certain that you personally don’t make any enemies. I wouldn’t want to have to clean up any unneeded messes. Verin will be there as well as Stasia. Work with the two of them if need be. I am expecting DeVian to also be present, but I do not know for certain. However, try to keep your distance. I don’t need you doing anything you’ll regret with her.”


What a pain. She had been expecting to make her way to Rome regardless of what either of them had to say and specifically for finding DeVian. How often would she get the chance to force a fight on her? Then again this could work out even better for her. At the end of the day this would mean that a mixing pot of claimants would be gathering in a singularity, and that meant one thing specifically for her…


“If anyone attacks me I do not plan to hold back. You understand that, correct?”


“I would prefer you flee. You are rather quick to take off with your wings.”


“And what of Quinnox’s claimants? Would they not just chase after me?”


“Hopefully you don’t do anything to get on his bad side at all.”


“Gahbriogyva, your father is correct about two things specifically although he left one thing out. Attempt to refrain from combat, but if there is no avoiding it then do what you must. Don’t initiate conflict. Your only purpose there will be to gather as much information as possible regarding Echowix’s appearance and what she left behind. You will be representing our house here, so try to stay on your best behavior.”


“Hmph.” They were sending people as representative icons and they chose her and Verin? All she could do was assume power was more important than reservations. “Fine, I understand. I have seen what was going on so I get the gist of this situation. I’ll get my weapons and head there immediately.”


“There’s no need”, her father’s words caused her eyes to shift to him. “If combat does break out forgo the guns. Just use your weapon. Don’t hold back. Your survival comes above all else.” His grip tightened on her shoulders and for a moment there was a stinging pain under her skin. Thinking about it this was the first time she had ever been sent on any real request by Xainayne or her father. He certainly wasn’t against showing how nervous he was. “If anyone gets in the way of your survival, kill them. Show no mercy. For us power is everything. If you are to be revealed as claimant to the public then you will do so with power. As your father, I give you permission to fight your hardest... if it comes to that.”


It was almost too much to bear, her mouth holding onto her normal frown and yet her rosy cheeks and eyes as red as blood told a completely different story. The story of someone who had been given something she could have never desired more than she did in that moment. It wasn’t as if she weren’t prepared to do as she desired regardless of what the two of them had to say, but hearing the words from her own father’s mouth? Nothing would compare to the extasy of that. If she could have recorded it and listened to it every single night from that day forward she would have gladly done it, but for now she had to remain composed. This was a rare opportunity after all and it couldn’t be ruined by her own lust for whatever possible carnage awaited them.


“So then, Gahbriogyva. Will you do it? Not that you really have a choice.”


“A choice? Xainayne, you know better than that. I’ll gladly handle this for you. The two of you may rest assured that this will be handled with utmost care.”


“Good, Wolf Pup. Now go. I will contact you if the need arises. Be safe.”


Just as she had come she was gone, leaving not a single trace of her ever being present. Gahbreal sighed and it was an action Xainayne took note of, amongst other things. The claimant male sat down on the floor as if the conversation itself had tired him out. It didn’t take him long before he chose to reach into his coat pocket and retrieve tha flask from within, emptying its contents into his mouth.


“Do you see why I chose this as the best choice?”


“Of course I did. She showed up wearing her combat gear for fuck’s sake. By the realms, I should have expected her to end up going anyway regardless of if we told her to or not.”


“But at least you managed to convince her easily enough. We shouldn’t have too many problems now and at least we will be keeping a closer eye on her now rather than if we did not expect her to go. You should trust my decisions more often, Wolf. Then again it's always fun to see you struggle with parenthood.”


“I always do, but it’s not so simple with her. Let’s just hope she doesn’t kill anyone unnecessarily. Also, if things go awry, you'll be struggling just as much as me.”
The small rodent scurried across the dirt covered floor littered with leaves and other forms of foliage. The way it darted about gave signs of panic and distress that only the creature felt it could really understand and yet as its movements quickened, so too did the sound of slithering behind it. The creature dashed up the leg of a table and through the multiple pots of plants which were placed atop it until it found itself against a wall, turning to its right and moving with deft precision. That is, until it found itself in a corner. How many times had this happened? How many times had this situation occurred? As often as the prey would attempt to escape the predator it rarely ever came to pass that the predator would go without its catch, and this situation was no different. The mouse’s amber eyes were locked onto the serpent which was now positioned before it, each strand of dusty blue and green fur standing up on end as its tail curled behind itself. This was it, there was no escape. It was time to accept its fate. The viper lunged forward only to find its teeth lodged into something completely different from its target, helplessly wriggling around attempting to free itself until realizing what had transpired.


“Valentine, how many times am I gonna have to tell ya to leave Dex alone? I swear if I didn’t raise ya from birth I would have eaten ya already. How did ya even get outta yer cage?” The viper wiggled about, attempting to make noises as it found its teeth trapped in its owner’s arm. “There’s no arguing this time ya know? You’re gonna have to learn to get along with the little rascal just like yer cousins.”


She removed the snake from her wrist, the bite mark added to the many others which riddled her arm. She placed the viper onto the floor and watched as it slithered off in a blur of orange and brown, a satisfied smile on her face which only grew when she turned to see the mouse now standing on the edge of the table attempting to reach her. She almost went about her normal morning banter with the rascal, but then again she had no idea what time it was. Making the decision to sleep in was in poor taste and Florita was no doubt displeased with her lack of action, but it would be fine overall. There was always time to tend to her plants and go watch over her shop. She reached her hand over and the mouse scurried up her arm before taking a comfortable seat on the patch of scales which covered her shoulder. She coiled up onto the floor as she always had done in the past as the small creature squeaked and squealed into her ear.


“What? Of course I haven’t watched the news. When was the last time ya ever saw me do that? Now let me sleep some more. It ain’t gonna be a relaxing day if—” The mouse squeaked a few more times, this time causing her to open up her eyes as rise from the floor in a sluggish manner. “Fine! I’m up! I should have let Valentine eat ya, little punk.”


The mouth leapt from her shoulder and down onto the table again, watching as she slithered across the floor to the washroom where she would begin brushing her teeth. Clearly she wasn’t fully awake as this was her third time brushing her teeth today without even eating anything. As she emerged, teeth cleaner than clean, she spotted the mouse who was now holding what looked to be a small bottle of pills in its hands.


“Ah! I almost forgot! Ya got me”, she spoke as she grabbed the container and shook one of the pills into her hand, swallowing it whole before chugging down a half finished bottle of water which had been resting on the table. Looking around her home as she ingested the medication really made her feel miserable. “This house is a fucking mess. Ya couldn’t have at least cleaned up a bit while I was asleep? Ya have all gotta help me out here, this is a nightmare.” A few loud squeals from the mouse jogging her memory once again. “Fine! I’ll look up the news! I swear ya just want to ruin my relaxation. Now what am I looking for?” A quick glance at her phone and her brow raised, jaw dropping ever so slightly as the situation had finally found itself to her. “Oh…” she spoke as she skimmed through the articles. “Oh no…” she exclaimed as she looked to the mouse which was now once again on her shoulder. “Oh fuck me.”


What was once the normalcy of her home had now become a place she hadn’t visited in quite some time, the warmth filling her system and giving her the factory reset she needed to be fully awake. Her eyes remained on the horizon, or at least attempting to remain focused on it. How many times had this place saved her?


“I see you’ve been relaxing today.” The ancient’s voice caught her attention and she spun around quickly.


“What? No, of course not. I’ve been as busy as a bee.” She spoke to which the ancient of nature simply gave her a once over to which the dark skinned female chose to do the same. Of course she didn’t change her clothes! A tattered and sleeveless crop top splattered with dirt and grass stains, the lower half of her body quickly shifting from its snakelike form to that of her normal legs only to remind herself that she wasn’t wearing any pants or undergarments! “Heh, work has been very slow… today?”


“Sometimes I regret having you abandon your more serious nature, but then again you enjoy this version of yourself more than the other so I can’t blame you. Have you been taking your medication?”


“Yes ma’am. Dex has been making sure of that.”


“Good. Well I didn’t call you here for nothing so I’ll make this quick so you can get situated. I’m sure you’ve seen the news, I doubt it would be possible for you to avoid seeing what has transpired at this point.”


“That’s right, ya can say that again.” Her eyes darted over to the mouse as if threatening its very being before turning back to the ancient. “So, what will ya have me do?”


“If I’m remembering correctly you live in Greece. Athens to be precise. It should be easy enough for you to make your way to Rome and retrieve whatever important things you may find. Whether that be items or information it will do us good to acquire anything.”


The nature claimant lowered her head, toes crossing over themselves as she thought over the situation. It wasn’t hard to guess that their house wouldn’t be the only one doing this and it most certainly wouldn’t be an easy task to handle if some sort of conflict broke out. Perhaps that was why she was being sent, but that only brough tup even more questions. She had abandoned the lifestyle she once chose for a more peaceful experience. Would this not contradict that very choice? Even Florita agreed it would be best to have her make this decision, it was a decision they had come to together, but why all of a sudden would things change? Perhaps it was just that serious, or maybe there just weren’t many others in their house who were accustomed to combat like her. She could think of people like Loic, but even he was far too kind at times although not necessarily the brightest when it came to social awareness. Perhaps that was why she was being sent, but perhaps it would simply be better to ask.


“Uhm, Florita? Why am I being sent out? I’m sure there are much better choices other than myself, so why would ya choose me? I doubt I’ll be any good in a fight and the medication will only do so much. If things get too stressful I don’t know if it’ll be able to hold up—”


The ancient placed her hands on the woman’s arms, all of the little bite marks fading away ever so slowly. She had almost forgotten Florita could do this, and while it did not answer the question it did put her at relative ease. If anything she could say that the ancient of nature was well capable of calming others down if she tried.


“I chose you because I believe you will be able to help. There’s no need to doubt yourself. You know what you’re capable of and even if you stumble you can always pick yourself back up again. I will need your perspective as well as your skills here. There’s no telling what may happen, but whatever does happen you simply need to do what’s best. Try not to cause any trouble and keep your contact with the other houses to a minimum. Now go, I may have someone else help you as well. I will inform you of the details later. You must hurry.”


Back in her home, it never truly felt real. How quickly the transition from her nest to the Fields and back always transpired made it feel as if she were sick, but she did not have time to dwell on that. She had things to do and they had to be done quickly.


“Dex, go and get my weapon. I’m gonna need the thing I suppose.”


As the mouse scurried off she walked over to a cabinet resting against the wall, opening it up to reveal shelves of bullets, magazines and attachments for multiple weapons, but only one really mattered. She grabbed the handgun which rested lazily on a shelf and four magazines as well as a few  boxes of ammunition. With it all placed on the table next to her potted plants she would throw on some clothes that were fixated more on comfort than fashion or defense. Besides, she wouldn’t really need them if things did evolve to a violent scenario. Navy jeans, a cream sweater and some green vans. It was almost like she didn’t understand the very concept of matching or caring for it, her messy head of curly, unkempt hair only serving to accentuate that point as she stuffed the pistol into her pants and the magazines and ammo into her pockets.


“Alrighty. Dex! Get yer ass out here! We’ve gotta get moving!” the mouse came scurrying out of one of the back rooms and up into the comfort of her sweater where it would do its best to remain hidden. A few squeaks and the woman would sigh in response. A few more squeaks and she would grab her wallet from the small tray next to the door. “Yeah, I know it ain’t gonna be a fun time. Ya don’t have to remind me of that. I have a friend who owes me a favor so we can be to Italy by sundown, although we’ll be traveling by speedboat. From there we’ll just figure something out. Maybe I’ll call in a few more favors.”

She hated the water. More than most things really, but it couldn't be helped. By now time was of the essence and she was late compared to what she could have been. For now she would just focus as best she could on strategy and let everything else fall into place as it needed to. If all else failed she at least had a chance to read the article. They shouldn't need to worry about any humans so she could always just move about freely and as quickly as she could with her tail, but if she could avoid drawing the attention that would bring from other claimants that would work as well. Then again it was just as she said... they'd just figure something out, as they always had.

“Do I really have to go? I’d rather just stay here, relax, and be loved by my subjects.”


“As in your ‘subjects’, are you referring to my plants?”


“Maybe. Is that a problem?”


“Not particularly, but I would have at least expected you to want to be loved by… you know… me?”


“Awe, is my Soi jealous?”


“I’m not jealous, Eva. If anything I’m urging you to go. No one really cares for it when you choose to ignore your duties, but I believe this might be a situation which you cannot avoid. Mother might even get upset with you if you just choose to ignore your ancient at a time like this.”


“Oh please, as if anyone really cares for Jayhe that much. I’m sure they’d laugh it off.” She paused for a moment. A sigh flowing from her lips as she rested into his lap, her place of safety above safety. She could feel the disapproving look on the back of her head. “Fine. Fine! If you think I should go I will. Although I planned on going anyway. It’s not like this is something I can very well ignore.”


Eva flinched ever so slightly as the familiar feeling of her partner’s hand resting on her head became all that mattered in that moment. The movement of her fingers through the tangles of her hair, the warmth which resonated off of them, she took in every single moment as she always did. “Good, you always manage to surprise me with how attentive you are while also being so standoffish.” Eva on the other hand sat contently for a moment with a face shaded in red before finally lifting her own hands to remove his gentle touch.


“Enough. I have things to do. Anymore than that and I’m not going to go.” She spoke as she reached into her pocket and retrieved her phone. Soivan was busy wondering who she would choose to call at a time like this, but the answer was clear the moment she leaned back against his chest and raised the phone to her ear. It only took a few seconds before, “Yeah, Jayhe. There’s no need to whine to me about it, I already know what’s happening… don’t bother, I’ll be going myself… yeah… I’m an Aikekunai so I don’t need anyone else! Fuck! Besides, it’s not like anything’s going to really happen! I’ll be there within the hour!” Seeing the small woman hang up the phone and throw it at the wall was both adorable yet increasingly violent, the plants shuffling over to devour the now shattered device, the only things in the area which were no doubt pleased with her anger.


“It’s okay, you’ll be fine. Will you be leaving now?” Soivan spoke as he gave the woman a tight hug.


“Yeah. The sooner I get there the sooner I can get this settled, I suppose. Then again I guess this is quite important. I planned to go anyway, even if I was told not to. I have a few things to check up on.” She twirled her head around, moving her hair aside as she looked Soivan directly in the face. She seemed nervous and that was more than enough to reveal what she wanted, the two of them sharing a kiss before she finally chose to stand to her feet. “I love you. I’ll be back when this is all over. Hopefully it isn’t going to be too much of a hassle.”


“I love you too. Take a few of my plants with you and try to have a bit of fun while you’re out there..”


“Thank you Soi. I won’t be gone for too long.”


Her exit was standard, the plants which would be accompanying her being ones that she had come to know well. Not that it was common to have them follow her around, rather she spent so much time with Soivan that it was becoming easier to tell them all apart. She had meant to ask him if they had names at some point and yet she always forgot to do it. When she found herself with Soivan all other things tended to no longer matter, and she wasn’t against admitting it entirely. It was for that reason she only accepted to have three of them escort her and she simply named them by number. However the moment she walked down the stairs and to her own home a whisper reached all of their ears.


“Ignore me.”


With it the plants almost seemed to not even register his very existence and yet Eva sighed as she looked across the room at her brother who was sitting in the edge of the countertop with a sandwich of what looked to be lettuce, tomato and possibly turkey. “Did you really have to do that? It’s not like Soivan doesn’t already know about you.”


“I know, but my job becomes easier when no one is constantly peering at me. Besides, it’s a simple order. They will still have their senses about them, but registering me just won’t be possible. Are we really going to do this? You know once we begin there won’t be any turning back. The events which will begin falling into place—”


“You don’t have to explain it to me. My entire life revolves around this… you should remember that.”


“I asked you once before and you never answered me. Do you believe Soivan’s feelings for you will remain after you’ve accomplished your goal? Do you believe everything will remain the same?”


Eva didn’t much care to change her clothing, instead choosing to simply change her slippers she had been wearing with a pair of tight fitting tactical boots, the same footwear which held the holster for her knife. A pair of loose fitting blue basketball shorts and a white t-shirt with a black cardigan. It wasn’t often she prioritized comfort over everything else, but perhaps today was just one of those days. “I believe nothing will ever change between the two of us. That’s what the meaning behind being someone’s soulmate it, even if things do manage to change around it. Now then, enough questions. You just need to focus on being my shadow as always. Things are finally starting to move in an impactful way and of course there will be certain eyes who can’t resist. The name of our game is manipulation.”


“As terrifying as always. I’ll meet you there—”


“No need, open the path yourself. There’s no time to waste.”


“Of course, sister.” He paused for a moment, clearing his throat before uttering a single phrase. “Open the path to my destination.” Eva watched on as his order was made apparent, the very fabric between the realms twisting and tearing apart at the sound of his order. It wasn’t even capable of being classified as a proper path. It looked more like a forced entry, a breach straight through the Prism and directly to where they needed to go, although the location on the opposite end was not their direct objective. “We will be entering around the edge of the area to  avoid dropping into the midst of things. While this is important, your protection is my main priority. Stay safe, stay out of trouble, and I will continue watching over you at all times.”


“Don’t talk to me like I don’t know what I’m doing. Come, let’s go”, she spoke to the plants which followed behind her through what seemed like a tear in reality. It always felt odd passing through this anomaly her brother was capable of creating. She could remember the first time it had happened, when he found himself incapable of traversing through realms as his very existence was being kept secret. It seemed more like a tantrum at first, but when the very realms began to heed his words things became clear. It was situation like that which made her believe her mother could see into the future. No doubt he was one of the most potent members of their family and a brother she could rely on. If only he could command the Void in the same way, he might have found himself holding onto too much power. “Alright. I’ll be counting on you.” She spoke as she turned to see her brother already gone, no doubt surveying the area before proceeding to shadow her. “Of course. Typical.”
He almost slipped and fell on his face, catching himself just before loosing his balance completely. He rubbed the frost from his arms before allowing his body the time to adjust, spending so much time with Shinzo taking its toll on his overall tolerance to the cold itself. However what was most important would be what had caused him to lose his balance in the first place. His eyes turning to Daenu who looked to be growing rather impatient with his lack of cooperation.


“There ain’t no chance in hell I’m gonna do what you’re askin of me this time. Just send your other ants out, let em stumble around in the dark trying to ‘look’ for somethin for ya. Maybe it’d be a bit of a lesson for you as to why it’s a terrible idea to fuck up the claimants who follow ye when someone else does you wrong.”


“Haden, this isn’t a matter up for debate. You either do it or you die.”


“Oh? That’s my ultimatum? Well why didn’t you say so. So how about this then, I’m gonna go to Rome and gun down every single thing I see move on sight! Let me tell ya, I ain’t gonna bother with playin nice with a bunch of people I don’t care about and you know it. So I’ll go, but it ain’t gonna be a different ordeal from my normal times out on the job.”


“How can you manage to be such a prick? I swear, I’ve given you far too much for you to act this way toward me every time we're together!”


“Well you give and you take now don’t ye?” he only managed to be getting angrier by the second which was a feat in its own right. As he tied his hair behind his head into a bun he reached into his pocket for his flask, but found nothing. “Well shite! I ain’t gonna bother with it mum, this crap is really gettin to me… I’ll go, but at this point it’s only because I’d feel sorry for whoever else would have to feel around the city of Rome in my place until they find whatever it is they’re lookin for… I’m an adaptable lad, Daenu. I don’t like questionin your choices too often, but this is surely one of those times where I’m gonna have to ask how long this is gonna go on? This is a prime situation in which I wouldn’t be a necessity if the majority of our house could see. I’d go as far as to say we’re all an adaptable lot just because of our situation, but I’m growin tired of seein everyone hobbling around here.”


Odd was the only proper way to describe this conversation. Imagine, he has no alcohol for the slightest moment and its enough to have him sober up the amount he needs to speak about something he cares about. He wasn’t lying however, while he was a disagreeable sort he rarely ever did seriously question the choices that Daenu made, just as rarely as he referred to her as his mother. It served twofold, accentuating his care for the rest of the house as well as his remaining disdain for the choice she had made long ago. It seemed he would never allow a moment to pass by without showing his lack of agreeance. Then again it was just the way he always was. Most importantly however it led this conversation to a close, as there was only one real way to end it without a transition into a massive argument… silence. The only thing worse than arguing Haden was arguing with sober Haden, after all.


“Is there anything else specific ya want out of this? I mean, other than me time?”


“If you could refrain from killing others that would make all of our lives easier. This honestly shouldn’t be any different from your normal type of work, aside from the amount of other houses which will be involved. Although none of them should be hostile. We don’t know who is sending who, so it is important that you don’t take any unnecessary actions. You could very well end up making an enemy that leads to your demise if you’re not careful.”


“I’ll keep that in mind, as if there are many people who could really give me that much trouble.” He spoke as he tucked in his shirt and moved his handgun from the back of his pants to the front. “Alright, I’m headin out. If ya find anyone else who can do this let me know. I still ain’t pleased about havin to go out here. I’d rather spend the fuckin time with someone else, but I suppose that’s too much to ask.”


“Be safe Haden. And try to behave, kiddo.”


“Aye, and you as well. I’m sure you’ve got some meetin to attend. Try not to get too heated, you know those assholes like to tease ya.”
The cold replaced with warmth, the biting wind now a slow breeze, a sigh escaped his lips as he reached into the pocket of his black slacks and retrieved a single fingerless brown leather glove. He placed the hem of the handwear between his lips as he rolled his sleeves up to his elbows, taking his time to make certain that his glove was comfortably on his hand before reaching for his pistol and checking the firearms closely. Of course there was already one in the chamber, but sliding out the magazine would reveal it was already missing several bullets. “For fuck’s sake”, he muttered under his breath as he placed the item in his back pocket and retrieved another from his side pocket. Sliding the magazine into his favorite handgun was like a brief moment of pleasure and the moment he did he began walking down the road slowly with his eyes analyzing his surroundings attentively. Each step was careful and yet at the same time it was all for the wrong reasons, a gunshot echoing through the air as a nearby shop window shattered before he stepped inside of the dark building. The glass crunching beneath his feet, eyes sifting through the darkness before he found his mark. He only took the bottles with the highest alcohol content, emptying the contents of some into his flask while placing the others onto the bar for consumption.


Bottle after bottle he chugged down the contents of each as if they were incapable of really doing anything for him, but ever so slowly were they finally starting to give him the buzz he was looking for. From one bottle to the next, he would lift the beverages and cool them to a proper temperature before consuming them entirely. At this point it wasn’t as much a means to regain his normal drunken state, but rather for his own enjoyment before no doubt having to deal with others. However the sound of approaching footsteps gave way to the realization that he might have to deal with an annoyance earlier than anticipated.


He hadn’t expected someone to come to the location of a gunshot, but then again everyone present was no doubt looking for clues as to where they should begin or what they should be looking for outside of the location Echowix herself had chosen to appear. Was this person planning to attack? It was clear that he wasn’t going to be the only hostile person present, but he certainly was not expecting to come across another so soon. Only someone who was looking for a fight would approach combat or the sound of gunshots in a city supposedly occupied by no conscious entities other than claimants. Well, that or someone who was out of their mind. It was for that reason he chose to disregard putting his hand on his gun and instead prepared to outright freeze whoever chose to come into view. His greatest fear would be Le’eroy, his hope being that he was left back home because of his wild nature, but the moment he spotted the figure rounding the corner he remembered the other two categories he had left out of who might be bold enough to just go around approaching anyone and everyone they found.


Confidence and friendliness.


“I thought I would have found you if I followed the sound of a gunshot. You’re terrible, stealing the moment you get the opportunity from these poor people.” Just hearing the woman speak was a terrible omen and a warning to watch his step. Cyva of all people. It wasn’t until that very moment that he had really taken Daenu’s warning seriously. He was close to making an enemy of unparalleled consequence and he had barely arrived!


“As if you have the right to talk to me like that, rabbit. I wasn’t expectin to see ya here. Aren’t you one of the children of chaos and all that? I know you’re not just here to give me an earful, are ye?”


“How kind of you to offer, now pour me a drink if you don’t mind.”


“Just as bossy as ever. I don’t know how Gahbreal puts up with ye. Now that I think of it, ain’t the wolf stalkin around here somewhere? Seein you here I’d almost guess he’s right around the feckin corner.”


“He’s dealing with business of his own, as usual.” She spoke as she watched him pour a freshly chilled beverage into a glass before handing it over to her. “ Verin and… someone else are here in his stead. I’m here on my own bit of business as well.” She took a sip of the drink as Haden chuckled to himself.


“Always the secretive type, aren’t we? Alright, I ain’t gonna pry. Let sleepin wolves lie was it? At least you ain’t after me head.”


“Indeed… actually, we should travel together. It would benefit us both in the long run, would it not? Besides, I think it will be fun. We can catch up on lost time. I’m sure you have lots to tell me about Shinzo.”


This was odd. Cyva was certainly the friendly sort, but this was a little too friendly. It was almost as if she were attempting to have him trust her more than normal. As if he didn’t already trust her. Then again she was never the sort to go behind people’s backs unless it were completely necessary. If anything she were possibly planning to just order him around while they were out here. However she was right about one thing, it would certainly be easier for them to work together for the time being. Luckily she had happened to be the first person he ran into and no doubt one of the few people who was actually present. There were only going to be few in his opinion who were bold enough to come directly to the area without taking caution on their approach, but for him he couldn’t be bothered to care for conflict when he could just end it with violence. Cyva on the other hand was most likely brought there by Gahbreal, and if that were the case it would be stupid to try attacking her. However the Aikekunai was getting ahead of himself. From what Daenu had said everyone was at least planning to stay neutral.


Cyva finished her drink, an attempt at warding off the edge that followed this assignment. It was her plan to deal with this as easily as possible and for the most part that would have been fine. However, now that Gabi was present, she had a completely different objective as well as the current one. She knew her daughter well, knew all of her tendencies, but most importantly she knew her temperament. She had to be prepared to help Gabi as soon as the need arose. Her daughter was always prone to conflict and if she were here it would be wise to assume she might very well start some form of conflict. This didn’t however mean she could follow her around, Gabi’s sense of smell would just give her away. Because of this it would be best to keep her distance yet be prepared to move at any time.


“Alright, fuck it, let’s get movin. I’ll follow your lead since I know you ain’t gonna let it be any other way, lass. So where are we off to?”


“Well first we should survey the area, make sure nothing strange is going on before going directly to where Echowix showed herself. While I’d rather go straight to the destination I also would rather keep from being blindsided by some unknown variable…”


“Le’eroy?”


“Indeed. If Lunia does send him out here then he’s bound to fight someone. I'd rather it not be us.”

“Ballafex!” Flori’s voice echoed through the air. “Ballafex, I know you’re here! I’ve been calling you for hours!”


The ancient waded through the thick forest for what seemed like hours attempting to get the claimant to show himself. It seemed as if her were completely ignoring him, so much time passing since Echowix had chosen to make her appearance that it was aggravating. It would make sense that Ballafex would know nothing about it as he never chose to stay too close to civilization, but it was for that exact reason the ancient chose to keep him within the realm as often as possible. Although he wouldn’t admit it an air of worry arose from his most loyal claimant choosing to ignore his summons. However, as he finally came across the male it seemed his worries were unfounded.


“There you are. I suppose I should have expected that you’d be meditating, but I remember ordering you to do your meditations within the realm. It’s difficult enough to keep track of you as is. No one has time to track you down like this… are you even listening to me?”


He watched on as his claimant did not even move. His meditation deep and unbothered, as it had always been. Ballafex often chose to meditate in this manner and the other ancients agreed that it was good to have him do so without disturbance. He was a troubling boy after all, and when he wasn’t meditating he was roaming about the earth without restraint or purpose; leading to his tendency to often find himself in the domains of other ancients disturbing the lives of humans whenever he saw fit. However he would meditate for years at a time, doing what he would call ‘becoming one with the earth’ and there was no better description than that. Flori could never get used to the sight of his very skin crumbling off, his bones clearly visible as nature grew through his very flesh if it could even be called that anymore. It was almost as if he were entirely dead when meditating and it wouldn’t be a first if someone mistook him for a corpse. However it was easy to wake him up, this being proven by Flori’s choice to stomp his foot against the ground to which the earth beneath them shuttered and all the nearby creatures scurried off.


“Are you awake and focused now?” he questioned him. “I’d hate to have to cause more damage to your surroundings, but I do have more important things to attend to.”


Following his words the skeletal figure began to shift and creak, dust and dirt falling from its frame to reveal his flesh beneath the very gaps of crumbling and cracking skin and bone. As the form stood to its feet did the very earth beneath his feet shift and stir, rising up to fill in the erosion of his bones and body until he no longer had the form of a dilapidated corpse. Instead he now stood tall, tall enough to look down on the ancient as the dust which now swirled around them settled to the ground beneath their feet. His skin looked as dry earth yet with time it would begin to look more like that of normal skin, tanned and soft. His long blonde hair folding over his shoulders and his golden jewelry still adorning his body, the only thing he was missing would be the robes he normally wore which no doubt withered away with the passing of time.


“Flori! It is good to see you! I did not believe you would personally come to awaken me. For what do I owe this honor?” he spoke as he opened his arms as if expecting a hug to which the ancient stepped back slightly.


“There’s no time for that. I need you to do something for me right now.”


“A request? For me? This is new! You do not often give me many things to do. Unless… this does not have anything to do with Florita, does it?”


“No, of course not. Not like you’d listen if it did anyway.”


“You should really try to get along. The two of you go hand in hand, you should be the closest to one another. Then again all elements must be birthed from the foundation of the earth. No one is going to like you if you keep acting that way.”


“Enough of that! Echowix has finally made a move, and I need you to go and see what has occurred.”


“Echowix has shown herself? Outside of the Citadel? I see, so things are beginning to change somehow… interesting. Very interesting indeed. Well then,” he spoke as he lowered himself to one knee. “What will you have me do, my master?”


“I’m glad to see you’re finally taking this seriously… you will be working with Marjorie, although I doubt she’ll have her hands directly in any of this, or really be on our side at all. As such it will mainly be up to you to gather as much information as possible regarding Echowix’s appearance. You’ll be going to Rome. Something must be there for her to have shown up.”


“Is that so? Blasphemous though it may be, I will not raise a hand to your Champion."


“Avoid Marjorie unless she approaches you. The last thing we need is for you doing something to upset Novevu's Aikekunai."

"Qrow? Why would that one care about our house? If I'm correct he cared very little for anything outside of his lover's health."

"Just how long has it been since you've socialized with the other houses?!"

"You know, I have no idea... regardless I'll be heading to Rome immediately."

"Before you do that, please find yourself some clothes. There will be other claimants there and, although you’re rather good looking by normal standards, I doubt anyone will want to see you wandering about naked.”


“There’s no need to worry about that!” the claimant spoke with a bellowing laugh as he reached down to the ground beneath himself. His hand plunged directly into the dirt and stone, from within drawing out a perfect set of robes as well as his rifle and bayonet. “I remembered how upset the others were the last time I showed up without any garments so I made sure to bring a spare set of clothes!”


“How thoughtful... now are you ready?” the ancient asked as he watched the claimant fix his robe over himself and place the bayonet and sheath into his waist wrap. With that he stood tall and gave a smile and nod, the ancient sighing as he opened the way for him. “Normally I’d have you make your way there on your own, but for some reason you’re all the way in South America and I doubt you have any proper means of transportation. While you could always travel underground or just do your ‘dust-walking’, I would prefer you don’t draw a scene on your approach. Now then, go.”


The claimant stepped toward the portal, stopping just before entering without even turning to face the ancient. “Flori. What are my permissions for combat?”


“Refrain from it at all costs. While normally I wouldn’t care and let you do as you please, there will be too many houses involved for you to act too freely. If combat is unavoidable focus on restraining your enemies or fleeing. The last thing I need is for you to collapse a building and draw everyone’s attention to yourself. However, if you feel your life is in danger then show no mercy. however, no one should be expecting you, so try to keep to yourself if you can.”


“Understood.”
The moment the portal was gone, and he could once again feel the distance between himself and Flori, that feeling of separation set in once again. It was sad every time he thought about it, and yet he couldn’t be bothered with it now that he found himself with the excitement of finally having something important to do. It was a feeling of giddiness he found himself enjoying every moment of as he walked down the empty roads. Or rather there was a sense of greater joy since he had been forbidden from entering cities and towns since everyone was afraid he would destroy the buildings. He couldn’t bring himself to understand why everyone was so afraid though, he had only done it once!


He took a deep breath and with it the ground beneath his feet had begun to turn to dust, but before he could do any real damage he stopped himself and let the dust fall back to the earth. Part of him wanted to just waltz around and feel everything out, but another part of him remembered that he was told not to dust-walk mere moments ago. Instead he looked around for a moment only to realize he had no idea where he was or where to go. Perhaps it would be best to ask for help, but then again that might end with him getting into a situation he didn’t want to be in.


Perhaps it would be in my best interest to just move around underground. I’ll come out if I feel I must, but for now it might just be a better option to remain out of sight as Flori suggested. Keep to myself.


Or at least that was what he thought, compared to what would actually come to be. Once again he remembered just how few chances he would get to actually roam around a city and as such he would walk the streets and take in as much as he could. Get a feel for the foundation around him, the feeling of the vibrations through the earth beneath his feet, the minerals which made up each building around him, the construction beneath the ground under his feet. With every step an echo and with every echo a new construct to memorize and add to his collection of things he could create at a moments notice. He would explore this place and while doing so keep his eyes open for any other claimants. The moment he spotted one would be the moment he found a target to follow, and that would no doubt lead him to something important.


Perhaps I should have asked Flori which other claimant would be present. It has been some time since I have spoken with other claimants. I wonder if all the Aikekunai are still the same as before…

He cast the thought aside as he began sauntering down the road in his normal manner. If any word were to be used to describe his movements it would be intimidating, his stature not lending any aid to reduce the aura of  grandeur he senselessly exuded from his person. It was mainly the reason he was always met with so much hostility. He did not believe himself to be better than anyone, but he believed his element to be greater than everyone. As such everyone was treated equally regardless of status or title, no one received special treatment, in his eyes everyone was the same from the lowest human to the most esteemed claimant. Once anyone came to realize this they would certainly succeed in understanding the male better, albeit also understanding why so many people disliked him. However, not many people cared to put themselves at risk fighting him over it. He was certainly arrogant with his words and assumed everyone was on the exact same level of importance as himself unless they were and ancient or treasure, but that arrogance was followed alongside a troublesome ability which made him difficult to approach with hostility. All it took was single aggressive touch after all and you might find your body's mineral breaking down and being extracted into the dust of the earth.

Even so, everyone would agree it was a far easier choice to leave him be if possible. He was far too kind for his own good and it was because of this that it was rather difficult to properly anger him enough to start a fight. Ballafex was known for many things, but most importantly he was known for being a teacher to humans. Viewing them not as their own separate existence and rather closely intertwined with nature itself, as a very part of the earth. It was also for this reason he would spend much of his time here in Rome picking up the slumbering human bodies he came across and moving them off to the sides of the roads and streets. If anything did manage to happen he would at least like for them to be directly out of the way.

“This crap is ridiculous... hey! What the fuck are you doing?” Eva called out to a group of claimants who looked to be on the brink of exchanging blows. Of course, none of them paid her any mind. “Oh, so that’s how it’s going to be?” 


“You should probably intervein. Just for the sake of having everyone know you’re doing your job,” Koven spoke as he watched his sister pick up the heftiest stone she could find on the ground. 


“Shut your dumb ass up. If they can’t follow the first order then they don’t get second chances. Perhaps they should pay more attention!” 


She tossed the stone, about the size of a fist, as if attempting to take off one of their heads. It was obvious that was her intention, as the stone smashed against the side of one of the claimant’s heads. It didn’t do an extreme amount of damage, but it was enough to cause a stagger and gather their attention. This was when they turned to see Eva standing furiously in the middle of the road. Needless to say, none of them were impressed. 


“Who is this little girl?” 


“Who is what?” she spoke as she approached at a quick pace. “Disperse, trash! Or I’ll have you all kneel as you properly should!” 


“This kid is cray. Did you just throw a rock at one of us?” 


“Damn, is that more than five seconds of not following my orders? Let me help you then. Kneel!” she spoke as they all fell to their hands and knees. It was at that moment she reached down drew a sword from one of the claimant’s sides, lifting it into the air as if preparing to strike them all down. “Your punishment for insubordination will be death!” 


It was a correct and proper execution, one that only royalty could deal and yet she was surprised to find that the weapon was stopped before it collided with her target. She looked at the blade, held in place by a hand which did not bleed, what seemed like sand crumpling from the palm where the sharp edge was held tightly. She could only question why Koven did not act immediately. 


“Come now, there’s no need for that. Everyone makes mistakes. What’s important is that we learn from them,” of course it would be him. 


“Stay out of my way, Ballafex. These clowns seem to believe they can do whatever they want.” 


“Well, I’m sure they realize that isn’t the case anymore. Isn’t that right?” he spoke as the claimants nodded profusely. “See? Now let them go, Evagelyne.” 


“You are a thorn in my side I will cut and burn with the flames of death. Get the fuck up, and get the fuck out of my face,” she spoke to which the claimants all quickly got up and scattered in different directions. “That goes for you too asshole. The next time you even think to touch a weapon in my hands I will have you kill yourself.” 


“I will try to remember that.” 


“And NEVER use my full name again. You don’t deserve that courtesy, peasant!” 


“I will try to remember that as well. Stay safe, Eva.” 


“Shut up and go die somewhere!” 


It was only slightly shocking as she watched the male seemingly vanish. It wasn’t his own ability which caused it, but instead it almost seemed out of his control entirely. Something which had been done on occasion and yet not something she had ever seen happen so suddenly. 


“Koven! Where are you?” she called out to which she received no answer. “Are you serious? Goddamned asshole.” 
Meanwhile, looking down from the rooftops down onto the street stood a shadow taken human form. Eyes as red as rubies gazing down at the girl’s every step. Eva did not care to hurry or put herself through any more stress than was needed. It was because of this that she believed it would be a simple task to watch over her. 


“Koven.” 


“Yes, aunt May?” the boy responded. 


“There should be no major problems, but things may not go as smoothly forever. A lot of the ancients chose to uphold peace, but some did not agree with those terms. Specifically, Novevu and Xainayne.” 


“Does that mean those claimants will be dangerous? Should I treat them as immediate threats?” 


“No, that will only cause problems. The only death claimant who is confirmed in Rome is DeVian, who will no doubt always be in close proximity of Stasia.” 


“Two people who would be an annoyance to deal with. Even if I am an Aikekunai, it would be bold to assume I could take on two at once. And with Stasia here I’ll assume Verin is here as well?” 


Mayray took a moment to absorb the facts. It was easy to forget that Koven was also an aikekunai. He played an important role in Audo’s plans, his previous life going as far as to set up his own death just to fulfill that purpose. However, he was never the strongest person and was never meant to be seen as an aikekunai. That was the role of his sister. Yvaxiphoria, daughter of Audomattadjia, currently acting under the name of Evagelyne and living as the order aikekunai in her brother’s place. All for the sake of getting close, all for the sake of learning more. All for the sake of their desired future. Koven’s orders become law, and as such it was only natural that he would act as her true voice when she gave those orders. 


“You will refrain from fighting at all costs with any of them. Your physical strength might not be anywhere near its peak, but your orders are capable of changing the course of most things. We both know they become less effective against people who rank higher than you, and if you try to order other Aikekunai it will only work for a moment. It’s a card you cannot play right now, so hold off on using them in combat unless you must.” 


“I will. For now, I will observe and act as I must to assure my sister’s safety.” 


“Good, I’ll be taking my leave... there is also one more person in this city you won’t need to worry about as much, but it will be good to have you know she’s around.” 


“Who might this person be?” 
“Yeah, hello?” Gabi spoke as she leaned back in her seat. “Yeah, I’m already here. This place is fucking horrendous.” 


“Don’t be so upset, sweetie. I know you wanted to stay at the other place, but it seems your sister got to it first.” 


“She's not my sister! What I don’t know is why everyone keeps telling me to stay away from her.” 


“Well, that’s simple, it’s because you don’t like her... at all. Are you meaning to tell me you wouldn’t try to start a fight the moment you spotted her? That’s trouble we currently don’t need. Barely anyone even knows you exist, save for close friends and important people, but you know all of that.” 


“Everyone knows I exist! I’m a media sensation, a star! Some people are just too stupid to realize I’m a claimant.” 


“Yes. And your father and I have gone to great lengths to assure that. Tonight, however, I suppose that doesn’t matter. Just try to refrain from revealing your relationship with your father and I unless you absolutely have to.” 


“Fine... I still think I should just level that entire building.” 


“Again, you cannot destroy the building DeVian and Stasia are using just because you wanted it for yourself.” 


“Why not? I fucking hate her! Did you know I’m sharing a room with Verin? Verin?! She didn’t even want her sister in the same place! You should all just let me kill her and maybe we’ll get a better one next time.” 


“I’m likin’ this one more and more! If the lass keeps it up, she may just rival ya in ruthlessness!” 


“Oh quiet. I’m not that bad.” 


“The fuck? Who was that?” Gabi questioned her mother as she leaned forward in her seat. “Do you have me on speaker?” 


“Tell the lass to come over here, meetin’ her sounds like a feckin riot!” 


“Sorry dear, I’ve just been patrolling with an old mentor of mine. Shut the fuck up Haden.” 


“Haden?” 


“Patrol my arse, don’t lie to the lass! We’ve been drinkin’ for the past hour. We’ll get around to searchin’ for shite after we’re done here.” 


“Damnit Haden!” 


“Oh, so you can go drinking with work buddies, but I can’t knock down a building with an enemy inside of it?” 


“It’s one of the biggest buildings in the city! Of course not, and I will not say it again! Now then, I’m going back to patrolling-” 


“Patrollin’ she says.” 


“Shut up! Let me know if you need any help or anything. Bye my little raven.” 


“Bye mom.” 


Just as quickly as the call ended did Gabi rise to her feet and drag a chair out to the balcony which Verin stood. There was no need to exchange words, so she did not. The winged woman simply lifted the chair and tossed it out into the distance. Where it landed could be someone else’s surprise for all she cared. 


“What the fuck? Are you crazy?” Verin questioned her to which Gabi sighed and slumped her shoulders. 


“I just want someone dead. Is that too much to ask?” 


“Psychopath.” 


“A beautiful psychopath,” she spoke as her eyes lit up with excitement. A smile as devilish as could possibly be mustered by the woman as she gazed out upon the changes taking place within the city. “That’s more like what I wanted to see. Lizbett!” 


“Yes ma’am?” the woman responded as she rushed to her. 


“Bring my guns, I want both of them!” 


“Of course, ma’am.” 


As the woman left to retrieve the weapons Gabi could not help but marvel at the structure which rose in the distance. No doubt this would be exactly the type of thing she was looking for, and hopefully she would come to find a proper challenge at the place, but for now she could only watch as stone rose from the earth. It was on a scale the likes of which she had never seen before, something entirely out of a horror film crafted by humans. A construct of devastating stature, blackened stone and bedrock come together in the shape of what she could only call a tower. However, the design looked completely unnatural. Almost as if it were crafted by something outside of their realm, outside of their existence, as if the one making it saw beyond what could be made by the average mind. Perhaps it was for that reason it looked to be a place where living monsters no doubt would reside. 


“Here you are, Gabi,” the woman spoke as she approached with the two shotguns in hand. 


“Thank you, dear. Watch over my things while I’m gone,” she spoke before turning to Verin. “It goes without saying I’m going to check that thing out. Call me, but only if something important happens.” 


With those few words she was gone. Out to have a closer look at what looked to be a construct crafted to house an alien deity. 
His eyes were glued to the scene, his face riddled with confusion unearthed beneath the normally relaxed gaze. He could not understand it, could not fathom it, why this was happening the way it had. He looked on, having been whisked away from his current task on such short notice. It was all so obvious and yet things were not turning out as they should. It was because of this that Ballafex, as he looked directly into his ancient’s eyes, was more conflicted than ever before. Not just because his ancient seemed relieved, but because of the reaction which the other claimants of his house. 


“I don’t get it,” Marjorie whom he was stood next to at the time turned to see the claimant’s face. It seemed as if she were the only claimant who had even noticed him speak. “What are they all celebrating for? As if this conclusion is proper.” 


There was no time for the champion to get a hold of him before he was sent back to where he had once been along with everyone else. There he found himself, standing on the streets of Rome, although he barely even noticed. His eyes were still forward. 


“Flori... Flori!” he called out, but received no answer. He could almost feel the severing of what connection he had with the ancient. “Impossible.” 


He wanted to cry out, but to whom? He wanted to plead for the answers he desired, but who would give them? It was unexpected, like something that was always a possibility and yet he had believed it to be nothing more than a falsehood draped in empty words. At least that was what he thought until today. 


“What a... what a,” he stammered out as he fell to his knees. His palms against the ground, he watched on as his skin cracked and crumbled. “What a farce. What diabolical treatment, what horrendous despair. Is not earth everything? Does not everything reside upon the land provided? What say you?!” 


He cried out to anyone that might answer, but who would hear him with the answer he sought out? 


“He always seemed to act as if he were dealt an unfortunate hand. Almost as if he felt everyone were staring at him through blazing eyes and with hardened hearts. Perhaps, I was a fool to have doubted him,” he spoke as he dug his hand into the earth and pulled from it his rifle and bayonet. “No. I was certainly a fool to have doubted him. If I desire proper justice, then just as he I must force it out.” 


He began down the roads, a dust steadily rising about him as he proceeded further. Each step ate away at the minerals beneath his feet, pulling traces of earth from the structures around him as the dust formed a thick haze about his area, following him with every step he took. It didn’t even seem as if he were walking on the ground anymore, as if walking in the dust itself as he proceeded forward. It was easy enough to tell by the look on his face. He did not seem angry. Instead, he looked more disappointed than that, as if he had expected far better from those he saw as most capable. 
“What?” he spoke as if insulted in some way. 


“I said I don’t know how you managed to get your freedom from the Prism, but that doesn’t matter right now-” 


“Yeah, I know it doesn’t matter. What I’m askin’ is what you said after that?” 


“Evyette, go and find her! No one has time to play games with you.” 


“The fuck?” he spoke as a deep laugh escaped his throat. “Alright, I got you. I’ll definitely find her. You can count on that. But don’t get the wrong idea. Things ain’t the same as they once were.” 


“Is that supposed to mean you’re still as weak as before?” 


“It means that I give as much of a fuck about you now as I did the last time I saw you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go about doing the job of your lackluster lackeys. Just like old times, huh?” 


“You know your father is one of the people I sent, right?” he laughed in response just as he did before. 


“Yup. Just like old times.” 


He exited the bar in a casual manor, a yawn escaping him as he slipped his arms into his coat sleeves. On the inside he was clearly pissed, coming to the knowledge that Evyette had simply just been demoted the way she had been. On the outside however... he was equally as pissed, black flames turbulently dancing over his frame as the echoes of his footsteps accompanied him along his way. On one hand he didn’t believe it would be difficult to find her, but on the other hand he did not know just how well hidden she was. One thing was certain, however. He had the perfect person to call for help.


“Come on guys, I didn’t mean it! I promise!” Nier spoke as he maneuvered his way through a fight he found himself in. Perhaps they were not familiar with him, but what was he kidding. No one knew him for anything more than fawning over Chaemai. “I said I was sorry!” 


“Are you fucking crazy?!” 


“You can’t just attack us then apologize for it!” 


“It was a joke! A joke! I didn’t even hit anyone with those knives! Oh, wait.” He reached into his pocket and retrieved his phone before looking to see the familiar name he hadn’t seen in a long time. “Hellfire, how’s it going brother?” 


“No time for games, I need you to... are you in a fight?” 


“What? Oh yeah, I upset a few people. Nothing too serious.” 


“Sure. Anyway, I need to call in a favor.” 


“Oh my. You know what the price of that favor is, right? I’m going to need to... what? Wait a second.” There was a long pause before he began speaking again. “Alright. What was I saying?” 


“Did you just kill those people?” 


“Of course not! I just knocked them out for a little bit.” 


“Hmph, sure. You were talking about the favor?” 


“Oh yeah, the favor. I’m going to need both you and Evyette’s ring sizes. I will accept nothing less.” 


“If you can manage to find her location before me then by all means. But I’m not gonna do a damn if I find her first. Not that I don’t already believe I’ll be doing a better job at this than you. Just make a few calls, ask a few questions, and get back to me. Also, let me know if anything happens to Gabi or Eva. I heard they were both out there, and I’ll come if I have to.” 


“That’s probably not a good idea.” 


“Yeah, no fuck. That’s why I said if I have to. Evyette is currently more important anyway.” 


The phone hanging up was Nier’s sign that he was now left undisturbed. He looked down at the unconscious frames which now laid upon the ground. A sigh escaped his lips as he continued on his path of information gathering. For someone like him that was the first of things that needed seeing to. While he was here on official business given by Nammay it didn’t mean he would be doing things any differently from his normal work. And as always, things were going well. 


So far, he had come to discover that both DeVian and Stasia were present in the city. If it were just Stasia he might have contemplated killing her, but that would make the point of no violence null. Even if he chose to target DeVian that would result in the same, even if Novevu had refrained from agreeing with the others. Speaking of which, Xainayne’s own Verin was present as well and joined by Gabi. Both were wildcards in his eyes, and both needed to be watched closely. Harm coming to them might be enough to start a war. An air claimant he had heard little about, one of Evyette’s who seems like they’ll be joined by Shinzo. Taking the samurai into account was impossible without bringing up Haden. And he was currently with one Cyva, who could be the most dangerous asset at play yet also the one who warranted the least worry. 


For now, he simply typed a bit on his phone before slipped the item into his pocket before continuing on his way. He had done enough searching for the time being. Now, he would simply go about looking for the item of everyone’s desires. Whatever Echowix was doing here he planned to find it first. He had two ancients counting on him, after all. 
“I told ya we’d get lost if I listened to yer directions,” she hissed out the words as she pressed her palm against her forehead. “What an imbecile I am, trustin’ my directions to a mouse!” 


The mouse looked at her only the way a person sick of her shit could. A few aggressive squeaks were all he could muster out at the woman before pointing down another road. 


“Well, no I don’t know where we are. But that don’t change the fact we’ve been walkin’ around fer hours! My feets are startin’ to ache from all this.” 


The mouse squeaked at her a few more times, crawling across her shoulders as it sniffed the air and pointed down another street. As much as she was complaining, she certainly listened to every single direction the little mouse gave. 


“Dex, I swear. I’m not used to walkin’ around like this and ya know it.” 


Another subtle squeak. 


“I know the humans are asleep, but I ain’t gonna go slitherin’ about the streets like a snake. Who knows what kind of attention that might bring to us!” 


More squeaks followed by the mouse raising its hands into the air. 


“I mean... yeah, I suppose not havin’ been knocked out with the other humans is enough to catch the attention of others. But that don’t change the fact that we’re still,” she paused as the mouse pointed her directly to a building. “Oh! Would ya look at that! What would I do without ya, little rascal?” 


The mouse rolled its eyes, tucking itself into the multitude of curly hairs upon her head before she stepped into the building. While she had just arrived, it was clear that the people had to be claimants. As she and Dex had just discussed, they would be the only ones left awake. However, it was at this time that she decided to do something that would no doubt be a horrible thing for someone like her to do. She would interact with them. While she thought it would be a smart move, Dex knew it would be far too difficult for someone like her. Especially when she was properly on her meds. 


“Yo, my peoples. How are ya doin’?” It was horrible! Worse than he had initially imagined it being! It’s like she was drunk but wide awake! “I am Kel. I mean, Anna. I mean, Lamia. Fuck!” 


She took a deep breath, her forked tongue flicking out to which she came to a sudden realization. One of them was a fire claimant. If she made the wrong move and they decided to make things too hot she’d start to hallucinate. She couldn’t fight like that! And so, she decided to keep it cool. Or at least as cool as someone like her could possibly muster. The attempt already falling apart as she leaned against the desk which was occupied by another claimant. 


“My name is Kel-Anna. Kel fer short.” 


Neither Stephani nor Vivian could possibly fathom what had just taken place. They could only watch on and feel sorry for Florita who had apparently been left with no other choices better than this girl. Meanwhile Kel-Anna had completely believed she nailed the introduction. First impressions were everything, and she had certainly succeeded in that. 


“Now then. I would like a room, if ya please good person,” she spoke as she handed the order claimant a card. 


“This is a rewards card for... a videogame store?” 


“Ah! Wait! Hold on a second,” she spoke as she shuffled through her pockets to no avail. “It turns out, I don’t have any money. Would it happen that Florita mentioned my comin’,” she questioned them only to receive her card back along with a shake of the head. “Well, that is a problem.” 


The mouse quickly scurried from its hiding space to only do what looked and sounded like yelling at the nature claimant. To her it was rather normal, but to everyone else it was nothing more than the sight of a mouse reprimanding someone for forgetting to bring their wallet. 


“I know, I know. Nothin’ fer it now. No need fussin’ over it,” she spoke as she pulled a blunt from her pocket and placed it between her lips. “We’ll slither around town and find somethin’ to do.” 


The mouse quickly slapped the item from her mouth to the ground and picked it up before running about the lobby with Kel-Anna hot in pursuit. 


“Damnit, ya fuckin’ rat! I oughta eat ya for this!” she called out after the creature as she tumbled around attempting to capture the mouse. 
He stepped forward, looking down at one of the humans which laid unconscious upon the ground. It wasn’t the type of look you’d get from someone who cared. Instead, it lacked any form of enthusiasm or pleasure. There rested nothing more than disappointment in knowing that he would not be capable of seeing their faces as he went about his work in its full capacity. His frame was that of stone, his face carrying no features of which could be understood. No eyes, no ears, no mouth, nothing outside of the cragged and rugged earth of gray coloration. He opened his palm, sharpened fingers spread outward before clasping them into a tight fist. In doing so the very ground seemed to open up like some jagged maw and crush the human now made corpse within. It was as if the very earth had devoured them itself. 


“Now rise, golem of mine. Let stone, and mortar, and dust, and blood become your frame. Let death and despair be your guide. Rise from the mire and do my bidding.” 


With his words the blood and flesh seemed to almost soak into the shifting ground. Then, seconds later, from the very spot the earth would rise up in the form of a monstrosity. Arms long and thin with several fingers more akin to blades on each, legs with no feet and rather sharpened points which hit the ground with sharp pings. Its torso was thin and almost looked as if it could fall apart at any second, yet of course it did not adhere to such a thing. The earth from which it was built soaked in blood, making it look to be made from a dark and murky reddish gray and the bones and organs of the human which once existed a graft into its being. Ribs protruding from its chest cavity, bones peeking from under the surface of its limbs, fresh meat visible all over, but most importantly rested the human’s skull upon its shoulders. A longer than average neck holding it up straight, stone barely covering it as horns of pure onyx broke through the bone and jutted out to either side. It did not move, did not react, did not act. 


“Good and proper work. A being of which only I might create. Only I might dig from the mire of earth. Now, all you need is a final touch,” he spoke as he reached forward and dug his finger into the remaining eye which rested in the construct’s skull. He drew it outward, crushing it in his palm before using the blood to carve a red symbol onto its forehead. “Now then, with this you are complete. Awaken creature of despair, general of my invasion. Your name will be Harrow.” 


Upon receiving those words the creation began to shake, as if being brought to life in that very moment with its limbs snapping and churning. The bones could be heard creaking, some breaking as its limbs twisted to life, its jaw gaping open in a way which suggested pain. 


“Good, it seems I’ve made proper use of the vocal cords. So, tell me, my creation. Speak, and relinquish unto me how you are feeling.” 


“I... I... I am,” the golem stammered out in a female voice, as if struggling to make the words proper. “I am... pain... extreme... pain...” 


“Does this pain disturb you?” 


“It... does not...” 


“Good. Then you will be the first of many. Now watch on, my creation,” he spoke as his feet rose from the ground. “Marvel at the sight of my creation! Bear witness to the monument of despair I bring! Will shall drown this place in distress! Condemn these lowly creatures to the darkest mire, the agony which resides behind their courage. We shall take their corpses and from them build up an army of the vilest dregs. Then, and only then, will they come to understand fear.” 


With his own rise from the ground, so too did the earth before him shift and stir. Arms outstretched he would shape the earth into a greater structure, a monument, a citadel of his own. A tower which rose from the darkest earth, taking the form of crags and celestial apprehension. To him it was an icon, a marvel, something to be praised for its greater design. To others? Nothing more than a foreboding icon looming in the distance. It could not be properly understood or registered without complications or confusion. An unnerving feeling drawn from the very sight of it. Its design more akin to that of what one would call the nightmarish abode of a clandestine Great One, but was that not normal for someone who had seen what he saw? 


“This will do for the time being. I was told to simply cause a stir, so anything larger than this might attract too much attention... now then. As for you,” he spoke as he descended back down to his golem. However, this time he refrained from allowing his feet to touch the ground. 


“My... master...” 


“You have a very important job, my creation.” 


“What will... you have me... do?” 


“Go forth, cause a stir, kill to heart’s content. That pain you feel? Smear it across the bodies of anyone and everyone you come across. No mercy. No morality. And when they are unable to fight back any longer you will simply cry out so that I might hear. Then I will craft them into your brethren.” 


“Yes my... master...” 


With those orders the golem proceeded to hobble down the road in a manner which suggested a struggle to move, but it didn’t take long before it began sprinting at high speeds. It wasn’t until it had no longer remained in his sight that Famine chose to make his way to the top of what would currently act as his camp, but it also wasn’t long until he could hear it echo in the distance. A scream, or rather a blood curdling howl, the likes of which only one of his nightmares could make. He could only laugh as he looked down on the city of Rome from his throne of anxiety. 


“Perfect. It seems I’ll be getting some fun out of this yet.” 
“Maybe we should go and check out what that thing is in the distance,” Cyva spoke as she placed down the glass she had been drinking from. Haden simply scoffed at the idea. 


“There isn’t a single point in that lass. Ya know it’s probably just one of Flori’s kin tryin’ to be a bother. Let the order brats deal with it. I’m sure the lads need somethin’ to do anyway.” 


“You say that, but it has been there for quite some time and it doesn’t seem like anyone has even approached it. Not to mention that crazy scream we heard a while ago right after it was put up. You don’t think it’s odd that they would go about building something like that out of nowhere? The Kinoz did agree to no conflict, after all. Besides, something about it doesn’t seem right. It barely even looks like normal earth.” 


“You’re thinkin’ on it too much. I ain’t gonna worry about it. We’ve still got a job to handle, so leave it to the peacekeepers and put it off your mind.” 


“That’s easy for you to say. Four of my own loves are currently in this city. If something were to happen to them I might just-” 


She paused as they both heard the sound of quickly approaching footsteps. The scent of Naiick’s house wafting on the air let them know who exactly it was, but the moment they came into view it was clear that something was awry. They were injured, holding onto a damaged arm and running with a leg damaged just as badly. It was to neither Haden nor Cyva’s surprise when they fell to the ground with a groan. 


“What the feckin’ hell?” 


“Hey, what happened to-” Haden quickly stopped her and pulled her behind the bar before she could finish speaking, or give away their position. 


“Be quiet.” 


“What do you think you’re doing?” 


“I said quiet, lass. Look.” 


Following his words, she peaked over the counter at the claimant who struggled to their feet. Their weapon was still clutched tightly in their uninjured hand. It was a handgun she did not get the chance to properly examine before he was promptly charged down by what looked like a large hound made from stone and bone. Then four more rushed the claimant as well. 


He attempted to fire on them, the bullets landing yet seeming to have little to no effect. The moment the canine skull which rested on one of their heads clasped around his ankle the claimant was dragged back down onto the ground, and it was then that the stone hounds crowded his position and began tearing him limb from limb. Their screams could be heard as Haden chose to look away. Cyva, on the other hand, did not flinch or waver as she looked on at the gruesome sight. However, it wasn’t until the creatures ceased their assault and backed away that she found herself wanting to hide away. The very same howl they had been hearing at a distance, now just outside of their building. It made her ears ring, her jaw ache, her eyes water, as if someone were having death throws right outside, and yet that was not the case at all as the first golem approached the now dilapidated body which rested on the ground, barely breathing. 


“All for... my master... you... will become one... of us.” 


Cyva nearly vomited in her mouth, the sight of the very earth churning beneath the claimant and grinding him into the very gravel and cement beneath their feet. It was horrific, and yet not nearly as horrific as the bloodied stone creature which emerged from where the corpse once was. Alongside the stone hounds which were covered in blood and gore with the skulls of dogs, now stood another golem who looked to be barely capable of standing. Reddened stone and bone melded together with flesh, the long brunette hair which once rested upon the claimant’s head now covering the skull which was now this creation’s own, clawed hands and feet with a tail that looked to be made from the claimant’s spine. It was at this point that an order claimant approached, no doubt due to the screams which were heard. 


“What the hell is this? Your houses both agreed to refrain for these types of actions! Stand down immediately?” 


“How... bold of you... to assume...” 


“What are you talking about? You’ll be answering for this murder,” the claimant spoke as they approached. It was at this time Cyva could get a decent sight of them. Male, taller than her clearly, but that only made it shockingly more obvious as to just how much taller these things were. 


“Holy fuck, that thing is almost double my size,” she spoke as Haden drew his gun. 


“Well stay hidden so we don’t have to deal with it. I don’t even want to look at the things.” 


“Bold... of you... to assume you have... the same authority... of my master...” 


Those were the words exchanged before the golem raised its clawed hand to strike. The order claimant quickly jumped out of the way, swinging his sword towards the golem’s midsection where he would find a clean connect. The weapon now buried deep into the golem’s stomach, or what one might call its stomach. 


“My master,” it began as the claimant watched on in what had quickly become horror. 


“Are those, real bones?” 


“My master ordains... that you experience... terror!” 


It was over as quickly as it began, the golem’s fingers stabbing directly through their body before lifting the claimant into the air. It was there where they would remain for a brief moment before being tossed to the side where they staggered against the ground. The golem, with talons now drenched in blood, approached the other freshly crafted stone construct and carved upon its skull the same symbol which was visible upon its own before letting out another howl and standing by for several seconds. It only took those few seconds for the body to begin creaking and shaking, as if stifled by its own existence before inevitably falling flat on its face. Steadily it picked itself back up, rising to its feet where it now stood alongside the first golem. 


“You... belong to the master... I... belong to the master... we... are the... vanguard,” it spoke before pointing one of the bladelike fingers towards the order claimant which was still struggling to stand to their feet. “WE kill... for the master... WE sing... for the master... WE feel pain and WE give pain... for the master... now create death... for the master... and sing... that he might know...” 


With those words the newly formed golem stepped forward, slowly and carefully, as if gathering its bearings, just before diving forward as great speeds. The claimant attempted to defend themself, but there was no chance as the golem tore away at him until his flesh barely clung to bone. Tenacity be damned as he still clung to life, Cyva straining every fiber of her being to resist the urge to help, but as the creature leaned back with the bones in its chest cracking under the pressure did she find herself once again frozen in place. The howl this one released like that of a man who was forced to die in the most gruesome manner over and over again for all eternity. 


“Whoever you are, you won’t get away with this,” the claimant spoke as he struggled to even remain conscious.” 


“I am... Harrow... you are... one of us...” 


It didn’t take long before the earth beneath him wrapped around his frame, like a hand sprouting from the ground under his feet. What then took place was no doubt a painful end, their body being dragged into the solid earth without comfort, without mercy, without peace, as their screams turned to gargles, and then silence accompanying the crunching of bone and the sloshing of meat and sinew. Then, from the puddle of blood upon the earth, rose another stone golem. An odd mix between what looked to be a creature and a human, hunched forward on all fours with sharpened bones covered in stone protruding all over. The skull now malformed and its teeth in the shape of large fangs. That was when the first golem approached and dipped its fingers into the pool of blood at its feet to carve out the same mark on its skull. 


“Now... you are... kin... go and... find more meat... for our master...” 


The newly formed golem began to move, just as the last had, before shaking about as if uncapable of remaining still. They stood for a moment as if listening for something which could not be heard before the stone hounds sped down the road and the three golems all went their own separate ways. The first continuing down the road as the other two climbed their way up buildings and out of sight. It wasn’t until she was sure they were alone that she finally spoke. 


“Haden, I have no idea what I just saw.” 


“Yeah, maybe ya shouldn’t have been lookin’! I ain’t gonna have anything to do with those feckin things, that’s for certain!” he spoke as he gathered himself and rose to his feet. 


“We should call this in. This could be something no one here is capable of handling alone. Can you get ahold of Shinzo?” 


“I’m gonna assume he’ll show up in Rome eventually. Until then I doubt he’ll answer any calls while he’s talkin’ to his damn mother.” 


“Gahbreal has business to take care of as well, I doubt he will show up even if I could get to him... perhaps we should search out the nearby Aikekunai. If they know about this, they may have some means of resolving the issue. Or at least the ancients might listen to them long enough to do something.” 


“Aye. You’re not wrong. They may intervein if their favorites are in danger.” 


“My thought exactly, and that makes our target a simple find.” 


“Who are ya thinkin’ lass?” 


“We’re going to go pay one of my esteemed daughters a visit,” Cyva spoke as she stepped out and surveyed the area. “If we find her, based on what Gabi said, we’ll no doubt find DeVian with her.” 
“Welcome, sir! As I have been informing all the others, everyone else has been knocked unconscious. I am here to welcome all claimants and Aikekunai, as well as inform you that this place will be acting as a base for everyone. So long as you keep things-” 


“So, it seems I’m in the right place.” 


“Excuse me, sir?” interrupted again? 


The heavy sound of boots across the floor told a tale of terrible of his journey to the building. Each step left a fading footprint in blood behind as he approached the order claimant who acted as greeter and informer. He wore anormal pair of dark blue jeans along with dark brown boots which looked to have been walking through corpses before his arrival. A tucked in black shirt and bulletproof vest rested under an unzipped hoodie of the same color, the hood resting on his head, his hands covered in worn out gloves and a short sword hanging from his belt. That too was covered in fresh blood. He casually stopped just short of the order claimant. 


“How many claimants have arrived so far?” 


“I have no obligation to give that information. I must also request that you keep things peaceful.” 


It was odd. The entire situation. It hadn’t been a problem at all up to this point, but there was no telling what house he belonged to. There was no scent on him, or rather he carried the faint scent of multiple houses, nothing stood out enough to give him away.  


“You’re as useless as they come,” he spoke as he removed the hood from his head to reveal a gaze that suggested he hated him entirely. Not just due to his answer, but rather before they had even met. His head was closely shaved with a full beard of medium length. He also looked as if he hadn’t slept in days. 


“I apologize, sir. However, if you could you please tell me what house you belong to then we may get you sorted out and into a room.” The faster the better with this one. 


“My house? I belong to the house of Karr.” 


“That’s not a proper house, sir. I’m going to need to ask that you take this seriously?” 


“This is why I hate claimants. You all seem to act without the slightest regard for those you trample beneath your feet. How quickly you all forget,” he spoke as he reached into his hoodie and drew from it a handgun the size of which did not look as if it properly made sense. 


“What are you doing? All but two of the houses agreed to remain peaceful!” 


“You just said it yourself, didn’t you? My house isn’t a proper house you know of. Just as my ancestors and those before them, I will do my family’s work.” 


The projectile fired from the gun tore through the claimant with little issue, the hole left in their body as they fell to the ground a marvel of raw damage that was also displayed in the crack which snapped in their ears when he pulled the trigger. He pulled back the bolt on the handgun and allowed the now empty bullet casing to fall to the ground, placing the bolt in the same hand as the gun before reaching into his hood and pulling out another large cartridge. He looked down at the male who now stammered and gasped on the ground, not dead yet clearly close to that fate. 


“I suppose this is why Levei gave me those new bullets. I suppose I should use those from now on to make things easier for myself,” he spoke as he placed the new round into the bolt and loaded his handgun before placing it back under his hoodie. “Sorry about that, my own bullets are gathered from battlefields you claimants have used in the past. While killing you all with your own weapons is effective, that doesn’t mean it’s easy, and most of you can just heal yourselves back up. I have to be accurate, thorough, precise, perfect.” 


“Levei? Who are you?” the order claimant spoke as the male drew the sword from his side and held it with the blade pointing downward at the claimant. 


“Don’t be so naïve, claimant. And who am I kidding? I’m not sorry at all. If anything, I’m sorry for myself. Lacking the satisfaction of knowing that your family won’t be present to watch you die as you all should.” 


His way of doing things were twofold with the sword. He did not trust the ways in which claimants could heal and as such did not trust their ability to die normally. It was due to this that he had come to learn two methods of slaying his targets. Beheading, and utterly destroying their hearts. Not knowing if certain claimants were capable of surviving the former or the latter alone, he always chose to do them both. This was why he plunged the blade into the order claimant’s chest and twisted it about violently before lifting the sword skyward and slicing directly through their neck. The motionless silence was what he needed to know that they were dead and done in. 


“I believe in no gods for they would have saved us from you. I believe in no mercies for those have been robbed away. I do not believe in your ancient lies, nor do I believe in your Elysian and your Void. I believe in the beginning of life and I believe in the end of the very same. Die and become nothing, just as my family has. Ashes to ashes.” 


He placed his sword back within its scabbard before reaching into the pocket of his hoodie where he retrieved a fragmentation grenade, and the only one in his possession. Normally it would be useless against claimants, the only real things which carried any form of effective use being the tools he had come to either craft or do extensive research on, but it would certainly be useful for one particular measure today. He pressed the button for the elevator and watched as the door opened, pulling the pin just as the door began to close and tossing the item inside before backing away to cover himself. The loud boom shook the floor around him, but that just meant he had successfully put the elevator out of proper use. Now he could go about doing his business without the thought of anyone slipping by him too easily. 


He placed the hood back over his head. His gun drawn and held steadily in his right hand; the hilt of his sword squeezed tightly between his fingers. He did not shake or falter as he began to ascend the stairwell to reach the next floor. He’d take this slow, or as slowly as he wanted to. Snuffing out whatever claimant were within the building as they either came his way upon discovering the elevator to be useless or simply waited without a care for him to do his proper duty. Of course, there would be some who could just fly or possibly survive jumping out of the building from the upper floors, but that wouldn’t alter his plan. He was wearing the title of Claimant Hunter after all, and the last of his line. If they tried to escape then he’d just have to hunt them down.

“You can’t be serious… of all the shit that could happen right now.”


A sigh escaped his lips as he chewed through the piece of toast, his hands scrambling through drawers of papers and files as he prepared for the inevitable. He had been sitting around enjoying the peace and quiet until his mother had contacted him, something about him ‘needing to see the news’, but it only turned out to be more of a pain than he had anticipated.


“You know he’ll be calling on you soon. You’re one of the only people he can really rely on.”


“I know mom, but that won’t make it anymore safe. I suppose I should be preparing for travel. And I was hoping to visit Chaemai today.”


“This is more important, you know?”


“Oh my, something more important than Chaemai? I think not.”


“Just get yourself together, Nier. Nammay is most likely expecting you.”


He closed the cabinets and drawers, a slip of paper with rather stylized writing on it along with a signature only he would be capable of putting to proper use. Tucking it into his pocket and reaching out to his weapons which rose into the air before settling at his sides, he let out a groan and rubbed his eyes. An attempt to clear away the grogginess to no avail. He’d have to sleep while on the way no doubt, but then again he could always hope that Nammay would send someone else instead of him. However he was always prepared to do whatever the ancient of metal asked of him without question, and that was why he found himself in the Gulf standing before this father figure.


“I’m sure you’ve already seen what’s going on.”


“Yes lord Nammay, do you need me to handle it?”


“You really need to stop calling me that, but as expected you understood the situation. While I could send anyone else I would prefer you handle this. There’s no telling what might happen and I’d rather avoid as many problems as possible.”


“Well if that’s the case it’s only natural that I’m sent out, I suppose. Hopefully I don’t run into anymore Aikekunai. It would be a hassle having to deal with anyone else other than Gahbreal. Although I'm certain Novevu will have DeVian deal with this.”


“As important as this is I don’t see any other Dimea aside from him being sent. That may serve to be a problem for everyone else involved, but if Xainayne is taking this as seriously as he should then it may be unavoidable.”

“Absolutely not.”


“And why is that? You act as if this isn’t a serious matter.”


“Oh, I know it’s serious, but I don’t really fucking care either. My answer remains no.”


“You can’t continue to coddle the girl forever, Gahbreal. She will eventually be pulled into the fray and both of us know that she’s more than capable of fending for herself. Even more than most claimants can say. Besides, Verin will also be present so she will not be alone.”


“You do realize what’s going to happen if anything happens to my daughter… correct?”


“Of course I do, but you have important things to take care of and there aren’t many others who can be relied upon. I’m certain everyone will expect you to be there, but you will continue on with your normal duties and leave this up to Verin and Gahbriogyva.”


“…tell her to come here. Immediately.”


The ancient wasted no time calling upon the girl. Having expected Gahbreal to put up much more of a fight before deciding to agree, this was going smoother than expected and if it could be resolved quickly then that would be all the better. The two stood in silence for a moment under the canopy of the tent, a place of confusion and madness for anyone else and yet a home above all other homes for the present two. Then, right before them, a vestige od darkness began to form like a cocoon of black feathers. They spread open like an ill omen upon all things present and revealed to be within was none other than the girl herself. She looked to be rather calm, yet agitated. The same look held within her eyes that her father currently sported and as she gave them both a disagreeing look it only became more apparent how serious they were. How often had she seen that look upon her father’s face?


“So then. What is this about? I was rather busy with my own work, so the faster we get this over with the better.”


“Your work doesn’t matter right now. You’re being called upon.”


“Excuse me? My work is everything, and I would appreciate it if you didn’t—”


Her father placed his hands on her shoulders. They were heavy, as if keeping her grounded and tether the ground beneath their feet. His eyes were a stark red which only fed into the madness resting behind her own. This was serious.


“Focus. Your work can wait. There’s no need to play dumb, I know you’ve most likely been informed about the events in Rome. You will be going there immediately.”


“Wait. I’m going? You are serious?”


“You will refrain from combat at all costs! This is not a request, your actions here carry more weight than just your own affairs. I know how you fight and we must avoid killing the claimants of other houses to make certain that you personally don’t make any enemies. I wouldn’t want to have to clean up any unneeded messes. Verin will be there as well as Stasia. Work with the two of them if need be. I am expecting DeVian to also be present, but I do not know for certain. However, try to keep your distance. I don’t need you doing anything you’ll regret with her.”


What a pain. She had been expecting to make her way to Rome regardless of what either of them had to say and specifically for finding DeVian. How often would she get the chance to force a fight on her? Then again this could work out even better for her. At the end of the day this would mean that a mixing pot of claimants would be gathering in a singularity, and that meant one thing specifically for her…


“If anyone attacks me I do not plan to hold back. You understand that, correct?”


“I would prefer you flee. You are rather quick to take off with your wings.”


“And what of Quinnox’s claimants? Would they not just chase after me?”


“Hopefully you don’t do anything to get on his bad side at all.”


“Gahbriogyva, your father is correct about two things specifically although he left one thing out. Attempt to refrain from combat, but if there is no avoiding it then do what you must. Don’t initiate conflict. Your only purpose there will be to gather as much information as possible regarding Echowix’s appearance and what she left behind. You will be representing our house here, so try to stay on your best behavior.”


“Hmph.” They were sending people as representative icons and they chose her and Verin? All she could do was assume power was more important than reservations. “Fine, I understand. I have seen what was going on so I get the gist of this situation. I’ll get my weapons and head there immediately.”


“There’s no need”, her father’s words caused her eyes to shift to him. “If combat does break out forgo the guns. Just use your weapon. Don’t hold back. Your survival comes above all else.” His grip tightened on her shoulders and for a moment there was a stinging pain under her skin. Thinking about it this was the first time she had ever been sent on any real request by Xainayne or her father. He certainly wasn’t against showing how nervous he was. “If anyone gets in the way of your survival, kill them. Show no mercy. For us power is everything. If you are to be revealed as claimant to the public then you will do so with power. As your father, I give you permission to fight your hardest... if it comes to that.”


It was almost too much to bear, her mouth holding onto her normal frown and yet her rosy cheeks and eyes as red as blood told a completely different story. The story of someone who had been given something she could have never desired more than she did in that moment. It wasn’t as if she weren’t prepared to do as she desired regardless of what the two of them had to say, but hearing the words from her own father’s mouth? Nothing would compare to the extasy of that. If she could have recorded it and listened to it every single night from that day forward she would have gladly done it, but for now she had to remain composed. This was a rare opportunity after all and it couldn’t be ruined by her own lust for whatever possible carnage awaited them.


“So then, Gahbriogyva. Will you do it? Not that you really have a choice.”


“A choice? Xainayne, you know better than that. I’ll gladly handle this for you. The two of you may rest assured that this will be handled with utmost care.”


“Good, Wolf Pup. Now go. I will contact you if the need arises. Be safe.”


Just as she had come she was gone, leaving not a single trace of her ever being present. Gahbreal sighed and it was an action Xainayne took note of, amongst other things. The claimant male sat down on the floor as if the conversation itself had tired him out. It didn’t take him long before he chose to reach into his coat pocket and retrieve tha flask from within, emptying its contents into his mouth.


“Do you see why I chose this as the best choice?”


“Of course I did. She showed up wearing her combat gear for fuck’s sake. By the realms, I should have expected her to end up going anyway regardless of if we told her to or not.”


“But at least you managed to convince her easily enough. We shouldn’t have too many problems now and at least we will be keeping a closer eye on her now rather than if we did not expect her to go. You should trust my decisions more often, Wolf. Then again it's always fun to see you struggle with parenthood.”


“I always do, but it’s not so simple with her. Let’s just hope she doesn’t kill anyone unnecessarily. Also, if things go awry, you'll be struggling just as much as me.”
The small rodent scurried across the dirt covered floor littered with leaves and other forms of foliage. The way it darted about gave signs of panic and distress that only the creature felt it could really understand and yet as its movements quickened, so too did the sound of slithering behind it. The creature dashed up the leg of a table and through the multiple pots of plants which were placed atop it until it found itself against a wall, turning to its right and moving with deft precision. That is, until it found itself in a corner. How many times had this happened? How many times had this situation occurred? As often as the prey would attempt to escape the predator it rarely ever came to pass that the predator would go without its catch, and this situation was no different. The mouse’s amber eyes were locked onto the serpent which was now positioned before it, each strand of dusty blue and green fur standing up on end as its tail curled behind itself. This was it, there was no escape. It was time to accept its fate. The viper lunged forward only to find its teeth lodged into something completely different from its target, helplessly wriggling around attempting to free itself until realizing what had transpired.


“Valentine, how many times am I gonna have to tell ya to leave Dex alone? I swear if I didn’t raise ya from birth I would have eaten ya already. How did ya even get outta yer cage?” The viper wiggled about, attempting to make noises as it found its teeth trapped in its owner’s arm. “There’s no arguing this time ya know? You’re gonna have to learn to get along with the little rascal just like yer cousins.”


She removed the snake from her wrist, the bite mark added to the many others which riddled her arm. She placed the viper onto the floor and watched as it slithered off in a blur of orange and brown, a satisfied smile on her face which only grew when she turned to see the mouse now standing on the edge of the table attempting to reach her. She almost went about her normal morning banter with the rascal, but then again she had no idea what time it was. Making the decision to sleep in was in poor taste and Florita was no doubt displeased with her lack of action, but it would be fine overall. There was always time to tend to her plants and go watch over her shop. She reached her hand over and the mouse scurried up her arm before taking a comfortable seat on the patch of scales which covered her shoulder. She coiled up onto the floor as she always had done in the past as the small creature squeaked and squealed into her ear.


“What? Of course I haven’t watched the news. When was the last time ya ever saw me do that? Now let me sleep some more. It ain’t gonna be a relaxing day if—” The mouse squeaked a few more times, this time causing her to open up her eyes as rise from the floor in a sluggish manner. “Fine! I’m up! I should have let Valentine eat ya, little punk.”


The mouth leapt from her shoulder and down onto the table again, watching as she slithered across the floor to the washroom where she would begin brushing her teeth. Clearly she wasn’t fully awake as this was her third time brushing her teeth today without even eating anything. As she emerged, teeth cleaner than clean, she spotted the mouse who was now holding what looked to be a small bottle of pills in its hands.


“Ah! I almost forgot! Ya got me”, she spoke as she grabbed the container and shook one of the pills into her hand, swallowing it whole before chugging down a half finished bottle of water which had been resting on the table. Looking around her home as she ingested the medication really made her feel miserable. “This house is a fucking mess. Ya couldn’t have at least cleaned up a bit while I was asleep? Ya have all gotta help me out here, this is a nightmare.” A few loud squeals from the mouse jogging her memory once again. “Fine! I’ll look up the news! I swear ya just want to ruin my relaxation. Now what am I looking for?” A quick glance at her phone and her brow raised, jaw dropping ever so slightly as the situation had finally found itself to her. “Oh…” she spoke as she skimmed through the articles. “Oh no…” she exclaimed as she looked to the mouse which was now once again on her shoulder. “Oh fuck me.”


What was once the normalcy of her home had now become a place she hadn’t visited in quite some time, the warmth filling her system and giving her the factory reset she needed to be fully awake. Her eyes remained on the horizon, or at least attempting to remain focused on it. How many times had this place saved her?


“I see you’ve been relaxing today.” The ancient’s voice caught her attention and she spun around quickly.


“What? No, of course not. I’ve been as busy as a bee.” She spoke to which the ancient of nature simply gave her a once over to which the dark skinned female chose to do the same. Of course she didn’t change her clothes! A tattered and sleeveless crop top splattered with dirt and grass stains, the lower half of her body quickly shifting from its snakelike form to that of her normal legs only to remind herself that she wasn’t wearing any pants or undergarments! “Heh, work has been very slow… today?”


“Sometimes I regret having you abandon your more serious nature, but then again you enjoy this version of yourself more than the other so I can’t blame you. Have you been taking your medication?”


“Yes ma’am. Dex has been making sure of that.”


“Good. Well I didn’t call you here for nothing so I’ll make this quick so you can get situated. I’m sure you’ve seen the news, I doubt it would be possible for you to avoid seeing what has transpired at this point.”


“That’s right, ya can say that again.” Her eyes darted over to the mouse as if threatening its very being before turning back to the ancient. “So, what will ya have me do?”


“If I’m remembering correctly you live in Greece. Athens to be precise. It should be easy enough for you to make your way to Rome and retrieve whatever important things you may find. Whether that be items or information it will do us good to acquire anything.”


The nature claimant lowered her head, toes crossing over themselves as she thought over the situation. It wasn’t hard to guess that their house wouldn’t be the only one doing this and it most certainly wouldn’t be an easy task to handle if some sort of conflict broke out. Perhaps that was why she was being sent, but that only brough tup even more questions. She had abandoned the lifestyle she once chose for a more peaceful experience. Would this not contradict that very choice? Even Florita agreed it would be best to have her make this decision, it was a decision they had come to together, but why all of a sudden would things change? Perhaps it was just that serious, or maybe there just weren’t many others in their house who were accustomed to combat like her. She could think of people like Loic, but even he was far too kind at times although not necessarily the brightest when it came to social awareness. Perhaps that was why she was being sent, but perhaps it would simply be better to ask.


“Uhm, Florita? Why am I being sent out? I’m sure there are much better choices other than myself, so why would ya choose me? I doubt I’ll be any good in a fight and the medication will only do so much. If things get too stressful I don’t know if it’ll be able to hold up—”


The ancient placed her hands on the woman’s arms, all of the little bite marks fading away ever so slowly. She had almost forgotten Florita could do this, and while it did not answer the question it did put her at relative ease. If anything she could say that the ancient of nature was well capable of calming others down if she tried.


“I chose you because I believe you will be able to help. There’s no need to doubt yourself. You know what you’re capable of and even if you stumble you can always pick yourself back up again. I will need your perspective as well as your skills here. There’s no telling what may happen, but whatever does happen you simply need to do what’s best. Try not to cause any trouble and keep your contact with the other houses to a minimum. Now go, I may have someone else help you as well. I will inform you of the details later. You must hurry.”


Back in her home, it never truly felt real. How quickly the transition from her nest to the Fields and back always transpired made it feel as if she were sick, but she did not have time to dwell on that. She had things to do and they had to be done quickly.


“Dex, go and get my weapon. I’m gonna need the thing I suppose.”


As the mouse scurried off she walked over to a cabinet resting against the wall, opening it up to reveal shelves of bullets, magazines and attachments for multiple weapons, but only one really mattered. She grabbed the handgun which rested lazily on a shelf and four magazines as well as a few  boxes of ammunition. With it all placed on the table next to her potted plants she would throw on some clothes that were fixated more on comfort than fashion or defense. Besides, she wouldn’t really need them if things did evolve to a violent scenario. Navy jeans, a cream sweater and some green vans. It was almost like she didn’t understand the very concept of matching or caring for it, her messy head of curly, unkempt hair only serving to accentuate that point as she stuffed the pistol into her pants and the magazines and ammo into her pockets.


“Alrighty. Dex! Get yer ass out here! We’ve gotta get moving!” the mouse came scurrying out of one of the back rooms and up into the comfort of her sweater where it would do its best to remain hidden. A few squeaks and the woman would sigh in response. A few more squeaks and she would grab her wallet from the small tray next to the door. “Yeah, I know it ain’t gonna be a fun time. Ya don’t have to remind me of that. I have a friend who owes me a favor so we can be to Italy by sundown, although we’ll be traveling by speedboat. From there we’ll just figure something out. Maybe I’ll call in a few more favors.”

She hated the water. More than most things really, but it couldn't be helped. By now time was of the essence and she was late compared to what she could have been. For now she would just focus as best she could on strategy and let everything else fall into place as it needed to. If all else failed she at least had a chance to read the article. They shouldn't need to worry about any humans so she could always just move about freely and as quickly as she could with her tail, but if she could avoid drawing the attention that would bring from other claimants that would work as well. Then again it was just as she said... they'd just figure something out, as they always had.

“Do I really have to go? I’d rather just stay here, relax, and be loved by my subjects.”


“As in your ‘subjects’, are you referring to my plants?”


“Maybe. Is that a problem?”


“Not particularly, but I would have at least expected you to want to be loved by… you know… me?”


“Awe, is my Soi jealous?”


“I’m not jealous, Eva. If anything I’m urging you to go. No one really cares for it when you choose to ignore your duties, but I believe this might be a situation which you cannot avoid. Mother might even get upset with you if you just choose to ignore your ancient at a time like this.”


“Oh please, as if anyone really cares for Jayhe that much. I’m sure they’d laugh it off.” She paused for a moment. A sigh flowing from her lips as she rested into his lap, her place of safety above safety. She could feel the disapproving look on the back of her head. “Fine. Fine! If you think I should go I will. Although I planned on going anyway. It’s not like this is something I can very well ignore.”


Eva flinched ever so slightly as the familiar feeling of her partner’s hand resting on her head became all that mattered in that moment. The movement of her fingers through the tangles of her hair, the warmth which resonated off of them, she took in every single moment as she always did. “Good, you always manage to surprise me with how attentive you are while also being so standoffish.” Eva on the other hand sat contently for a moment with a face shaded in red before finally lifting her own hands to remove his gentle touch.


“Enough. I have things to do. Anymore than that and I’m not going to go.” She spoke as she reached into her pocket and retrieved her phone. Soivan was busy wondering who she would choose to call at a time like this, but the answer was clear the moment she leaned back against his chest and raised the phone to her ear. It only took a few seconds before, “Yeah, Jayhe. There’s no need to whine to me about it, I already know what’s happening… don’t bother, I’ll be going myself… yeah… I’m an Aikekunai so I don’t need anyone else! Fuck! Besides, it’s not like anything’s going to really happen! I’ll be there within the hour!” Seeing the small woman hang up the phone and throw it at the wall was both adorable yet increasingly violent, the plants shuffling over to devour the now shattered device, the only things in the area which were no doubt pleased with her anger.


“It’s okay, you’ll be fine. Will you be leaving now?” Soivan spoke as he gave the woman a tight hug.


“Yeah. The sooner I get there the sooner I can get this settled, I suppose. Then again I guess this is quite important. I planned to go anyway, even if I was told not to. I have a few things to check up on.” She twirled her head around, moving her hair aside as she looked Soivan directly in the face. She seemed nervous and that was more than enough to reveal what she wanted, the two of them sharing a kiss before she finally chose to stand to her feet. “I love you. I’ll be back when this is all over. Hopefully it isn’t going to be too much of a hassle.”


“I love you too. Take a few of my plants with you and try to have a bit of fun while you’re out there..”


“Thank you Soi. I won’t be gone for too long.”


Her exit was standard, the plants which would be accompanying her being ones that she had come to know well. Not that it was common to have them follow her around, rather she spent so much time with Soivan that it was becoming easier to tell them all apart. She had meant to ask him if they had names at some point and yet she always forgot to do it. When she found herself with Soivan all other things tended to no longer matter, and she wasn’t against admitting it entirely. It was for that reason she only accepted to have three of them escort her and she simply named them by number. However the moment she walked down the stairs and to her own home a whisper reached all of their ears.


“Ignore me.”


With it the plants almost seemed to not even register his very existence and yet Eva sighed as she looked across the room at her brother who was sitting in the edge of the countertop with a sandwich of what looked to be lettuce, tomato and possibly turkey. “Did you really have to do that? It’s not like Soivan doesn’t already know about you.”


“I know, but my job becomes easier when no one is constantly peering at me. Besides, it’s a simple order. They will still have their senses about them, but registering me just won’t be possible. Are we really going to do this? You know once we begin there won’t be any turning back. The events which will begin falling into place—”


“You don’t have to explain it to me. My entire life revolves around this… you should remember that.”


“I asked you once before and you never answered me. Do you believe Soivan’s feelings for you will remain after you’ve accomplished your goal? Do you believe everything will remain the same?”


Eva didn’t much care to change her clothing, instead choosing to simply change her slippers she had been wearing with a pair of tight fitting tactical boots, the same footwear which held the holster for her knife. A pair of loose fitting blue basketball shorts and a white t-shirt with a black cardigan. It wasn’t often she prioritized comfort over everything else, but perhaps today was just one of those days. “I believe nothing will ever change between the two of us. That’s what the meaning behind being someone’s soulmate it, even if things do manage to change around it. Now then, enough questions. You just need to focus on being my shadow as always. Things are finally starting to move in an impactful way and of course there will be certain eyes who can’t resist. The name of our game is manipulation.”


“As terrifying as always. I’ll meet you there—”


“No need, open the path yourself. There’s no time to waste.”


“Of course, sister.” He paused for a moment, clearing his throat before uttering a single phrase. “Open the path to my destination.” Eva watched on as his order was made apparent, the very fabric between the realms twisting and tearing apart at the sound of his order. It wasn’t even capable of being classified as a proper path. It looked more like a forced entry, a breach straight through the Prism and directly to where they needed to go, although the location on the opposite end was not their direct objective. “We will be entering around the edge of the area to  avoid dropping into the midst of things. While this is important, your protection is my main priority. Stay safe, stay out of trouble, and I will continue watching over you at all times.”


“Don’t talk to me like I don’t know what I’m doing. Come, let’s go”, she spoke to the plants which followed behind her through what seemed like a tear in reality. It always felt odd passing through this anomaly her brother was capable of creating. She could remember the first time it had happened, when he found himself incapable of traversing through realms as his very existence was being kept secret. It seemed more like a tantrum at first, but when the very realms began to heed his words things became clear. It was situation like that which made her believe her mother could see into the future. No doubt he was one of the most potent members of their family and a brother she could rely on. If only he could command the Void in the same way, he might have found himself holding onto too much power. “Alright. I’ll be counting on you.” She spoke as she turned to see her brother already gone, no doubt surveying the area before proceeding to shadow her. “Of course. Typical.”
He almost slipped and fell on his face, catching himself just before loosing his balance completely. He rubbed the frost from his arms before allowing his body the time to adjust, spending so much time with Shinzo taking its toll on his overall tolerance to the cold itself. However what was most important would be what had caused him to lose his balance in the first place. His eyes turning to Daenu who looked to be growing rather impatient with his lack of cooperation.


“There ain’t no chance in hell I’m gonna do what you’re askin of me this time. Just send your other ants out, let em stumble around in the dark trying to ‘look’ for somethin for ya. Maybe it’d be a bit of a lesson for you as to why it’s a terrible idea to fuck up the claimants who follow ye when someone else does you wrong.”


“Haden, this isn’t a matter up for debate. You either do it or you die.”


“Oh? That’s my ultimatum? Well why didn’t you say so. So how about this then, I’m gonna go to Rome and gun down every single thing I see move on sight! Let me tell ya, I ain’t gonna bother with playin nice with a bunch of people I don’t care about and you know it. So I’ll go, but it ain’t gonna be a different ordeal from my normal times out on the job.”


“How can you manage to be such a prick? I swear, I’ve given you far too much for you to act this way toward me every time we're together!”


“Well you give and you take now don’t ye?” he only managed to be getting angrier by the second which was a feat in its own right. As he tied his hair behind his head into a bun he reached into his pocket for his flask, but found nothing. “Well shite! I ain’t gonna bother with it mum, this crap is really gettin to me… I’ll go, but at this point it’s only because I’d feel sorry for whoever else would have to feel around the city of Rome in my place until they find whatever it is they’re lookin for… I’m an adaptable lad, Daenu. I don’t like questionin your choices too often, but this is surely one of those times where I’m gonna have to ask how long this is gonna go on? This is a prime situation in which I wouldn’t be a necessity if the majority of our house could see. I’d go as far as to say we’re all an adaptable lot just because of our situation, but I’m growin tired of seein everyone hobbling around here.”


Odd was the only proper way to describe this conversation. Imagine, he has no alcohol for the slightest moment and its enough to have him sober up the amount he needs to speak about something he cares about. He wasn’t lying however, while he was a disagreeable sort he rarely ever did seriously question the choices that Daenu made, just as rarely as he referred to her as his mother. It served twofold, accentuating his care for the rest of the house as well as his remaining disdain for the choice she had made long ago. It seemed he would never allow a moment to pass by without showing his lack of agreeance. Then again it was just the way he always was. Most importantly however it led this conversation to a close, as there was only one real way to end it without a transition into a massive argument… silence. The only thing worse than arguing Haden was arguing with sober Haden, after all.


“Is there anything else specific ya want out of this? I mean, other than me time?”


“If you could refrain from killing others that would make all of our lives easier. This honestly shouldn’t be any different from your normal type of work, aside from the amount of other houses which will be involved. Although none of them should be hostile. We don’t know who is sending who, so it is important that you don’t take any unnecessary actions. You could very well end up making an enemy that leads to your demise if you’re not careful.”


“I’ll keep that in mind, as if there are many people who could really give me that much trouble.” He spoke as he tucked in his shirt and moved his handgun from the back of his pants to the front. “Alright, I’m headin out. If ya find anyone else who can do this let me know. I still ain’t pleased about havin to go out here. I’d rather spend the fuckin time with someone else, but I suppose that’s too much to ask.”


“Be safe Haden. And try to behave, kiddo.”


“Aye, and you as well. I’m sure you’ve got some meetin to attend. Try not to get too heated, you know those assholes like to tease ya.”
The cold replaced with warmth, the biting wind now a slow breeze, a sigh escaped his lips as he reached into the pocket of his black slacks and retrieved a single fingerless brown leather glove. He placed the hem of the handwear between his lips as he rolled his sleeves up to his elbows, taking his time to make certain that his glove was comfortably on his hand before reaching for his pistol and checking the firearms closely. Of course there was already one in the chamber, but sliding out the magazine would reveal it was already missing several bullets. “For fuck’s sake”, he muttered under his breath as he placed the item in his back pocket and retrieved another from his side pocket. Sliding the magazine into his favorite handgun was like a brief moment of pleasure and the moment he did he began walking down the road slowly with his eyes analyzing his surroundings attentively. Each step was careful and yet at the same time it was all for the wrong reasons, a gunshot echoing through the air as a nearby shop window shattered before he stepped inside of the dark building. The glass crunching beneath his feet, eyes sifting through the darkness before he found his mark. He only took the bottles with the highest alcohol content, emptying the contents of some into his flask while placing the others onto the bar for consumption.


Bottle after bottle he chugged down the contents of each as if they were incapable of really doing anything for him, but ever so slowly were they finally starting to give him the buzz he was looking for. From one bottle to the next, he would lift the beverages and cool them to a proper temperature before consuming them entirely. At this point it wasn’t as much a means to regain his normal drunken state, but rather for his own enjoyment before no doubt having to deal with others. However the sound of approaching footsteps gave way to the realization that he might have to deal with an annoyance earlier than anticipated.


He hadn’t expected someone to come to the location of a gunshot, but then again everyone present was no doubt looking for clues as to where they should begin or what they should be looking for outside of the location Echowix herself had chosen to appear. Was this person planning to attack? It was clear that he wasn’t going to be the only hostile person present, but he certainly was not expecting to come across another so soon. Only someone who was looking for a fight would approach combat or the sound of gunshots in a city supposedly occupied by no conscious entities other than claimants. Well, that or someone who was out of their mind. It was for that reason he chose to disregard putting his hand on his gun and instead prepared to outright freeze whoever chose to come into view. His greatest fear would be Le’eroy, his hope being that he was left back home because of his wild nature, but the moment he spotted the figure rounding the corner he remembered the other two categories he had left out of who might be bold enough to just go around approaching anyone and everyone they found.


Confidence and friendliness.


“I thought I would have found you if I followed the sound of a gunshot. You’re terrible, stealing the moment you get the opportunity from these poor people.” Just hearing the woman speak was a terrible omen and a warning to watch his step. Cyva of all people. It wasn’t until that very moment that he had really taken Daenu’s warning seriously. He was close to making an enemy of unparalleled consequence and he had barely arrived!


“As if you have the right to talk to me like that, rabbit. I wasn’t expectin to see ya here. Aren’t you one of the children of chaos and all that? I know you’re not just here to give me an earful, are ye?”


“How kind of you to offer, now pour me a drink if you don’t mind.”


“Just as bossy as ever. I don’t know how Gahbreal puts up with ye. Now that I think of it, ain’t the wolf stalkin around here somewhere? Seein you here I’d almost guess he’s right around the feckin corner.”


“He’s dealing with business of his own, as usual.” She spoke as she watched him pour a freshly chilled beverage into a glass before handing it over to her. “ Verin and… someone else are here in his stead. I’m here on my own bit of business as well.” She took a sip of the drink as Haden chuckled to himself.


“Always the secretive type, aren’t we? Alright, I ain’t gonna pry. Let sleepin wolves lie was it? At least you ain’t after me head.”


“Indeed… actually, we should travel together. It would benefit us both in the long run, would it not? Besides, I think it will be fun. We can catch up on lost time. I’m sure you have lots to tell me about Shinzo.”


This was odd. Cyva was certainly the friendly sort, but this was a little too friendly. It was almost as if she were attempting to have him trust her more than normal. As if he didn’t already trust her. Then again she was never the sort to go behind people’s backs unless it were completely necessary. If anything she were possibly planning to just order him around while they were out here. However she was right about one thing, it would certainly be easier for them to work together for the time being. Luckily she had happened to be the first person he ran into and no doubt one of the few people who was actually present. There were only going to be few in his opinion who were bold enough to come directly to the area without taking caution on their approach, but for him he couldn’t be bothered to care for conflict when he could just end it with violence. Cyva on the other hand was most likely brought there by Gahbreal, and if that were the case it would be stupid to try attacking her. However the Aikekunai was getting ahead of himself. From what Daenu had said everyone was at least planning to stay neutral.


Cyva finished her drink, an attempt at warding off the edge that followed this assignment. It was her plan to deal with this as easily as possible and for the most part that would have been fine. However, now that Gabi was present, she had a completely different objective as well as the current one. She knew her daughter well, knew all of her tendencies, but most importantly she knew her temperament. She had to be prepared to help Gabi as soon as the need arose. Her daughter was always prone to conflict and if she were here it would be wise to assume she might very well start some form of conflict. This didn’t however mean she could follow her around, Gabi’s sense of smell would just give her away. Because of this it would be best to keep her distance yet be prepared to move at any time.


“Alright, fuck it, let’s get movin. I’ll follow your lead since I know you ain’t gonna let it be any other way, lass. So where are we off to?”


“Well first we should survey the area, make sure nothing strange is going on before going directly to where Echowix showed herself. While I’d rather go straight to the destination I also would rather keep from being blindsided by some unknown variable…”


“Le’eroy?”


“Indeed. If Lunia does send him out here then he’s bound to fight someone. I'd rather it not be us.”