Post by Hayate on Mar 29, 2008 17:51:43 GMT -5
~ Eternal City of Mac Anu; July 21, 2037 ~
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
*Izumi is seen sitting on the floor hugging her legs with her back against the wall*
Izumi: …
Orion: Izumi… You’ve been in that position ever since Hayate disappeared… You don’t even log off anymore… Have you been getting any sleep lately?
Izumi: …
Dawn Grunty: Oh, Izumi…
*moments later, Neon, Chibi-Usa, and Miharu collapse into the @home, exhausted of all energy*
Orion: Oh. You’re back. How’d it go?
Miharu: *panting* Floor…56…
Usa-chan: The twisting… The turning… It’s too much…
Neon: Has Izumi…said anything yet?
Orion: *shakes head* I’m afraid not.
Usa-chan: Grrrr… *hops to feet* This is all Hayate’s fault! Why’s he gotta be a total baby about everything!?
Orion: You can’t blame Hayate, Usa-chan. Try to see things from his point of view. Even with the power of the Factors, he couldn’t prevent Coolidge, Violet, and all those other players from falling into comas. Imagine how powerless he must feel right now.
Neon: It’s been 9 days. You think he’ll ever come back to The World?
Miharu: I hope so…
Usa-chan: Heck, for all we know, he could be logged in right now.
Orion: … *checks Member Address list* …Hey! He is logged in right now!
Usa-chan: Huh… I must be psychic or something…
Miharu: Okay, great, Hayate’s logged in. There’s just one problem: We have no idea where in The World he is!
Izumi: …
*all of a sudden, Izumi gets to her feet and exits the @home hastily*
Neon: I-Izumi?
Dawn Grunty: Where’s she going?
Orion: …Izumi…
*…Raven @home, Serpent of Lore…*
*Haseo is seen viewing footage of Hayate’s battle with Kaeion under Hulle Granz*
Haseo: …
Hayate (onscreen): *points blade sword at Kaeion* GIVE VIOLET BACK RIGHT NOW, YOU BASTARD!!![/size]
Kaeion (onscreen): Hmph. I’m afraid that’s impossible. You see-- G-GAH!!!
*before Kaeion could finish his sentence, the Caliburn is thrust straight through his right arm*
Hayate (onscreen): I’M NOT GONNA SAY IT A SECOND TIME!!![/size]
Kaeion (onscreen): Tch! *backs away from Hayate and draws dual swords* Why don’t you try and make me!?
Hayate (onscreen): Grrrr…
*just then, the faint image of an Avatar appears around Hayate’s PC body; as soon as Haseo sees this, he pauses the footage*
Haseo: …Hmm…
Ovan: *walks up to Haseo and looks at screen* Hayate showed extraordinary power in that battle, didn’t he? If only he could control that power…
Haseo: This image… What do you make of it, Ovan?
Ovan: Hmm… This is undeniable proof that Gorre is evolving… I believe the time has come to begin the next part of our operation.
Endrance: …Pi.
Pi: Yes?
Endrance: We need you to call a few…veterans back to the game.
Pi: …Understood.
Haseo: … *BEEP, BEEP!* Hmm?
Ovan: Something wrong, Haseo?
Haseo: …I’ll be right back. *exits the Serpent of Lore*
*as soon as Haseo exits the @home, he’s encountered by Izumi*
Haseo: Oh. It’s you. Is there something you want?
Izumi: You know where every player in The World is at every given moment, right!? Well, tell me where Hayate is!
Haseo: …I’m sorry. But I’m far too busy to be looking after a single PC. *turns away from Izumi*
Izumi: Please! I’m begging you! I know he’s logged in! Just tell me where I can find him!
Haseo: … *starts walking away*
Izumi: … *falls to knees* …Please…
*just before going back inside Raven, Haseo stops walking*
Haseo: …Σ Hidden Forbidden Miasma.
Izumi: Huh…?
Haseo: You’ll find him standing at the shore of the Vorpis Alph Sea.
Izumi: …Thank you. *stands up* Thank you so much, Haseo! *dashes towards Mac Anu dome*
Haseo: …Honestly… That boy has no idea how lucky he is to have a friend like her… *walks into Raven @home*
*meanwhile, at the shore of the Vorpis Alph Sea, Hayate is seen blankly staring into the water*
Hayate: …
*images of Coolidge, Violet, and the crowd of players at the Tanabata Festival begin to enter his mind*
Hayate: …
*images of Izumi and the rest of Glaive LeGable begin to enter his mind as well*
Hayate: …
*moments later, Izumi gates in and dashes towards the shore to find Hayate standing there*
Izumi: Hayate! You finally came back! Where’ve you been!?
Hayate: …
Izumi: It’s been over a week, Hayate! We’ve been worried sick about you! We thought you’d never come back to the game!
Hayate: …
Izumi: Please say something to me!!!
*just then, Hayate slowly turns around, walks up to Izumi…*
Izumi: H-Hayate?
*…and wraps his arms around her*
Izumi: *gasp*
Hayate: …I’m sorry… I’m sorry for making you worry…
Izumi: …Hayate…
Hayate: …But not anymore. I promise that I won’t make you worry anymore. I’ll become stronger… Stronger than ever… So that I can protect you… So that I can protect everyone… So that no one else has to die…
*Hayate lets go of Izumi and walks towards the transporter*
Izumi: …W-Wait! Hayate, where’re you going!?
Hayate: …To find him. *gates out*
Izumi: “Him”…?
*a little later, in a dungeon-type area, Kaga faces off against a ferocious boss monster several levels stronger than himself; in his hands he holds the Spell Wiseman*
Monster: *loud roar*
Kaga: (Alright… Focus…)
*he begins to pour energy into the staff and it gives off a faint silver glow*
Kaga: Come on… Come on… Come on!
*as Kaga concentrates, the monster swings its axe-like arm at him*
Monster: *loud roar*
Kaga: COME ON!!!
*all of a sudden, the energy built up inside the staff explodes; Kaga is sent flying into a wall…
Kaga: GAH!!!
*…and the monster is eradicated in an instant*
Kaga: …Dammit… Why can’t I get this right…!?
*frustrated, Kaga returns to Breg Epona*
Kaga: *sigh*
: There you are!
Kaga: Hmm?
*he looks in front of him to see Tsukiyomi walking towards him*
Tsukiyomi: I’ve been looking for you, Kaga!
Kaga: Oh, not again…
Tsukiyomi: Help me find the bastard that stole my dual swords! And I won’t take no for an answer!
Kaga: Yomi, we’ve been over this! I’m not gonna help you get your dual swords back! You should just forget about them! Kaeion is way too powerful!
Tsukiyomi: But, Kaga…
Kaga: The last thing I’d want to see is you getting hurt, Yomi. You know, I’d be more than happy to find a new set of dual swords. Just forget about the Spin Natsume.
Tsukiyomi: …Okay. I get it. You don’t have faith in me. You think I’m weak.
Kaga: I never said--
Tsukiyomi: Fine!! If you’re not gonna help me get my dual swords back, then I’ll get them back on my own!! *gates out*
Kaga: Tsukiyomi! …Oh, boy…
*later on, Izumi returns to Glaive LeGable’s @home*
Izumi: …
Dawn Grunty: Izumi! You’re back!
Izumi: … *forces a smile* Hey.
Miharu: You okay there, Izumi? Did you find Hayate?
Izumi: …No.
Usa-chan: Awww… I wonder where he could be…
Orion: …
Izumi: …Orion? W-Why are you looking at me like that?
Orion: *enters a private chat with Izumi* You’re lying. You DID find Hayate, didn’t you?
Izumi: …Am I that easy to read?
Orion: Izumi. Don’t push yourself.
Izumi: I know. Thank you. *looks towards @home entrance* I have faith that Hayate will come back. Until then…I’ll wait.
Orion: *smile* Ah, young love.
Izumi: … *blush*
Neon: … *BEEP, BEEP!* Hmm? … *sigh* Great. Another meeting at Raven. And it looks like I have to go by myself. *stands up* Be back in a bit, guys.
Miharu: ‘Kay! Tell the others I said hi!
Neon: Will do! *walks out*
Orion: *stares into space* Hayate… I wonder what you’re thinking right now…
*meanwhile, in a random dungeon-type area, a group of Player Killers talks amongst themselves in front of the Beast Statue*
PK1: Hahaha! Really! The guy fell in, like, TWO seconds!
PK2: Oh, man! That’s priceless!
PK3: Hahahaha! Ahhh… Hmm? Hey, look, we got company.
PK1/PK2: Huh?
*the Player Killers turn to see Hayate standing before them*
PK2: And just what the hell do you want, shorty!?
Hayate: …Do you know of a player in The World named Dekar?
PK1: Dee-who?
Hayate: Dekar! The chief CEO of CC Corp.! Do you know him or not!?
PK3: Hehehe… Maybe we do… Then again, maybe we don’t…
Hayate: …Tell me. Now.
PK1: Now, is that any way to ask for something, kid? Why don’t you ask a little nicely?
Hayate: …This is pointless. *turns around and starts to walk away*
PK2: *draws chakrams* Hey! Where do you think you’re going!? You think you can just walk away after interrupting our conversation!?
PK1: Yeah! *draws broadsword* You need to learn some manners!
PK3: *draws dual swords* And we’re just the players to teach them to you!
*the Player Killer trio suddenly pounces onto Hayate*
Hayate: … *reaches for blade sword*
*in a blurry flash of speed, Hayate takes out the Player Killers in an instant; as the Player Killers’ PC bodies hit the floor, Hayate puts his blade sword away and gates out*
PK1: What…the hell…was that…?
PK2: I…don’t know…
*meanwhile, in a field-type area, Kaeion is seen absorbing more PC data for Althena*
Kaeion: Just a little bit more… A little bit more, and Althena’s power will be at its peak. *examines right arm* Hmm… My bracelet’s not at 100% yet…
*images of Hayate begin to circle Kaeion’s mind*
Kaeion: Grrrr… That kid…! If I ever see his face again, I’m gonna rip the Morganna Factor out of his PC and send him into a coma he’ll never awaken from…!
: There you are!!!
Kaeion: Hmm…?
*Kaeion turns around to see Tsukiyomi standing a short distance away from him*
Kaeion: …I’m sorry. Do I know you?
Tsukiyomi: Damn right you know me! You have something that belongs to me!
Kaeion: … *raises eyebrow* You’re gonna have to be more specific than that.
Tsukiyomi: The Spin Natsume, you bastard! Hand ‘em over!
Kaeion: Spin Natsume? …Oh. Now I remember. You’re that loudmouthed Twin Blade.
Tsukiyomi: “LOUDMOUTHED”?!?
Kaeion: …Oh, yeah. I definitely remember you now. So… *takes out Spin Natsume* …it’s these you want?
Tsukiyomi: My dual swords!
Kaeion: Your dual swords? These dual swords, as well as the rest of the .hack//Arms, belong only to the almighty Althena!
Tsukiyomi: I found those dual swords first, so they’re mine! *draws dual swords* Now give ‘em back or else I’ll slice off your hands just to get to ‘em!
Kaeion: …You’re exactly the same…
Tsukiyomi: Huh?
Kaeion: *grits teeth* You’re exactly the same as that kid… Impulsive, noisy, no respect for your superiors… *draws broadsword* You people who deny Althena… You all irritate me to no end!
Tsukiyomi: … *gulp*
*in the Serpent of Lore, all of the Factor Users (except Hayate) meet with Pi and the Epitaph Users*
Ren: Is there something wrong, Haseo? Data Bug trouble?
Gwen: Or did that bastard Kaeion show his ugly face again?
Haseo: …I’d like to show you all something. Pi?
Pi: Right.
*at Haseo’s command, Pi plays footage of the battle between Hayate and Kaeion on the Serpent of Lore’s monitor display*
Neon: Hey, that’s that room under Hulle Granz.
Hayate (onscreen): *points blade sword at Kaeion* GIVE VIOLET BACK RIGHT NOW, YOU BASTARD!!![/size]
Kaeion (onscreen): Tch! *backs away from Hayate and draws dual swords* Why don’t you try and make me!?
Hayate (onscreen): Grrrr…
*the faint image of an Avatar appears around Hayate’s PC body; as soon as this appears, Pi pauses the footage*
Kyuzo: Whoa.
Vyce: What is that?
Ovan: Back during the days of G.U., this is what we referred as an “Avatar”. Each of the eight Epitaph Users – Haseo, Atoli, Kuhn, Yata, Sakubo, Endrance, Pi, and I – would utilize these Avatars to rid The World of AIDA. As you can see here, you Factor Users are capable of reaching the same state. Although they’re on a much smaller scale, that doesn’t make them any less powerful.
Gwen: …That’s pretty cool and all, but what does this have to do with why we’re here?
Pi: *stands up and faces Factor Users* Althena is dangerously close to awakening. If, by some off-chance, we cannot prevent that, you will likely have to do battle against her. In order to do that, you’ll have to have completely mastered use of your Factors, including the Avatar form. …You all are going to undergo some training.
Neon: Training? By you guys?
Haseo: Well… *smirk* …Not only us. *calls out to Serpent of Lore’s entrance* You can come in now.
*the Factor Users turn their attention to the Serpent of Lore’s entrance, where they see Atoli, the guildmaster of Moon Tree, and a second player with long blue hair tied into a ponytail walk in*
Atoli: Hello, everyone.
: Hey. How’s it goin’?
Endrance: The two individuals you see before you are both Epitaph Users. Atoli, the Epitaph User of Innis, and Kuhn, the Epitaph User of Magus.
Ren: WHAT!? Atoli, you’re an Epitaph User!?
Atoli: *smile* Mm-hmm.
Ovan: As Pi mentioned, you are all going to undergo training to master use of your Factors. Your teacher will be your corresponding user of that Phase of Morganna.
Endrance: Kyuzo will train under Haseo, Neon under Kuhn, Gwen under Pi, Ren under Ovan, and Vyce under myself. We’ve already had Atoli agree to train the Factor User of Innis soon after it manifests.
Kyuzo: Hey, Epitaph guys, your math is way off. You’re two Epitaph Users short.
Pi: We already have the Epitaph User of Gorre out in the field in search of Hayate. As for the Epitaph User of Fidchell…well…
Haseo: At the moment, we have no idea where Fidchell’s Epitaph User or Factor User are located, so until either one appears before us, we’re gonna have to bide our time.
Kuhn: *walks up to Neon* So, you’re the new Magus, huh? Nice to meet ya.
Neon: …
Kuhn: …W-Why are you looking at me like that?
Neon: …
Neon: Girls, please, control yourselves!
Girl 1: Neon!!! I love you!!!
Girl 2: Just one little kiss!!!
Girl 3: Back off, bimbo!!! Neon’s mine!!!
Girl 4: Over my dead body!!!
Girl 1: That can be arranged!!!
Neon: …You’re the reason all those girls mobbed me at Coiste-Bodhar.
Kuhn: Hehehe… *sweatdrop* I’m real sorry about that.
*just then, a signal on the Serpent of Lore’s monitor starts to beep rapidly*
Endrance: What’s that?
Pi: The system’s finally located Hayate.
Ovan: Was he that difficult to track down?
Pi: He was more than likely using the power of Gorre to move swiftly between areas. At least now we can… Huh?
Haseo: What’s the matter, Pi?
Pi: …Haseo… I think you may want to look at this.
*Pi turns Haseo’s attention to the monitor*
PC (onscreen): You lookin’ for a fight, blondie!?
Hayate (onscreen): I’m not looking for a fight. But I’ll give you one if you don’t tell me what I want to know. Now tell me if you know where Dekar is!
PC (onscreen): Dekar this, Dekar that – you’re like a broken record! *attacks Hayate* Just shut up already!!!
*in a blurry flash of speed, Hayate takes out the Player Killer in an instant*
PK (onscreen): Ohhhh…
Hayate (onscreen): …A waste of my time. *gates out*
Haseo: Tch! Dammit all…!
*just then, Haseo gates out of the Serpent of Lore in a flash of black fire, leaving a scorch mark on the ground where he once stood*
Vyce: What’s with him?
Pi: Let’s just say…that Haseo’s trying to prevent the second coming of the “Terror of Death”…
*a short time later, in a field-type area, Hayate corners a group of players in the Beast Temple*
PC1: W-What do you want with us!?
Hayate: I don’t want to hurt you… Just tell me if you know where Dekar is.
PC2: Dekar? You mean the owner of The World?
Hayate: So you DO know him! Where is he!? Tell me!
PC3: We have no idea. That guy’s constantly on the move.
Hayate: …
PC1: Sorry we couldn’t help you out.
Hayate: …You’re lying.
PC3: Huh…?
Hayate: *glares at player group* You’re the third group of players I’ve talked to today who say they know Dekar, and the third group of players who claim they don’t know where he is! Don’t screw with me!
PC2: B-But we told you already! He’s always on the move! He never stays in the same place for longer than, like, 5 hours!
Hayate: … *draws Vorpal Sword* …You’ve had your chance.
PC’s: *gasp*
*Hayate suddenly pounces onto the player group; the players all close their eyes and wait for their death to come; all of a sudden, the sound of clashing weapons echoes throughout the Beast Temple; the players open their eyes to see Hayate clashing his sword with Haseo’s broadsword*
PC1: H-Haseo of the Black Flame!
Haseo: *turns to players* Get out of here!
PC2: R-Right! Okay!
*while Haseo fends off Hayate, the players warp back to Mac Anu; Haseo uses his free hand to blast Hayate away with a burst of black fire; Hayate flies back onto the ground*
Hayate: Oof!
Haseo: Get a hold of yourself, Hayate! You’re out of control!
Hayate: *hops to feet* Haseo! You’re one of the top administrators in The World! You must know where Dekar is!
Haseo: I told you to get a hold of yourself!
Hayate: NOT UNTIL YOU TELL ME WHERE TO FIND DEKAR!!! I JUST HAVE TO GET STRONGER!!![/size]
Haseo: *gasp*
*just then, where Hayate is standing, Haseo sees a ghost of his former self*
Haseo: I want you to tell me where Tri-Edge is!!! I have to get stronger!!!
Haseo: No… Not again…
Hayate: If you’re not gonna tell me…then I’ll FORCE the answers out of you! *dashes at Haseo*
Haseo: NO!!![/i][/size]
*just then, Haseo blasts Hayate away with an even stronger burst of black fire; Hayate flies back onto the ground with his HP almost at zero*
Haseo: Stop this…right now… This isn’t the way… It never was…
Hayate: *slowly gets up* I have…to get stronger… *grasps Vorpal Sword* I won’t stop…UNTIL I DO!!! *dashes at Haseo again*
Haseo: *gasp*
*just then, the Vorpal Sword in Hayate’s hands give off a powerful icy blue glow, causing Hayate to drop the blade and fall to his knees*
Hayate: GAH!!! Cold!!! *looks at Vorpal Sword* Saku-neechan…why…?
*the Vorpal Sword’s glow grows brighter and weaker in quick intervals, as if it were responding to Hayate’s words*
Hayate: …“This isn’t right…”?
Vorpal Sword: …
Hayate: …“Resorting to killing random players won’t make me stronger…”?
Haseo: *walks up to Hayate* I was once like you, you know.
Hayate: *looks up at Haseo* Huh?
Haseo: I thought the only way to get stronger was to defeat those stronger than me. …But…
Haseo: This guy…killed Shino… *draws dual swords* YOU BASTARD!!!
Haseo: …
Hayate: …
Haseo: …You’re looking for Dekar, right?
Hayate: Huh? Y-Yeah.
Haseo: Well, it just so happens he’s looking for you as well.
Hayate: H-He is!?
Haseo: Promise me that you won’t kill meaninglessly anymore…and I’ll take you to him.
Hayate: I will! I promise!
Haseo: … *extends hand to Hayate*
Hayate: …
*as soon as Hayate takes Haseo’s hand, the two gate out together in a flash of black fire; meanwhile…*
Tsukiyomi: AAAHHH!!!
*Tsukiyomi is tosses back onto the ground once again, her HP dangerously low*
Tsukiyomi: D-Damn you…
Kaeion: Now…why don’t you be a good little girl and surrender? I spared you your life once; that doesn’t mean I’ll be merciful this time as well…
Tsukiyomi: Grrrr… *struggles to return to feet* Don’t underestimate me…
Kaeion: Underestimate you!? HAH! You can’t even stay standing for longer than 30 seconds!
Tsukiyomi: *grits teeth, charges again* Grrrrraaaaahhhhh!!!!!
*just before Tsukiyomi could connect her attack, Kaeion outstretches his arm and grabs her by the neck*
Kaeion: You’re really beginning to bore me, girl…
Tsukiyomi: *gasp, choking*
Kaeion: Perhaps I shouldn’t have spared your life back then… *readies bracelet* Well, I won’t make the same mistake twice…
*Tsukiyomi flails about as Kaeion aims his bracelet at her chest*
Kaeion: … *smirk* I was wondering when you’d show up.
*Kaga is seen standing behind Kaeion, holding the Spell Wiseman to his back*
Kaga: …Drop her. Now.
Kaeion: Oh, come now. You and I both know that I’ll have ended her life far sooner than you could strike me with that trinket.
Kaga: You end her life…I end yours. *smirk* A fair trade, wouldn’t you say?
Kaeion: …You’re bluffing. You haven’t even figured out how to tap into a .hack//Arm’s inner power.
Kaga: …Try me.
Kaeion: …Hehehe.
*as Kaeion’s grip on Tsukiyomi’s neck loosens, time almost appears to slow down as Kaeion spins around and unleashes his broadsword upon Kaga; as Kaeion does this, Kaga surges fire magic through the Spell Wiseman; however, his lack of control over the .hack//Arm causes the accumulated fire energy to explode, sending Kaga, Tsukiyomi, and Kaeion flying and crashing to three opposing ends of the field*
Tsukiyomi: *dizzied* What just happened?
Kaeion: *stands up and dusts self off* Hehe. Just as I thought.
Kaga: (Dammit… Even now, I still can’t get it right!)
Kaeion: Watch and learn, Wave Templar… *draws Spin Natsume*
Tsukiyomi: Hey! My dual swords!
Kaeion: This…is how a .hack//Arm is truly put to use!
*as Kaeion dashes towards Kaga, the Spin Natsume start to give off a faint silver glow*
Kaeion: GHOST FALCON!!!
*once within range, Kaeion unleashes a multitude of strikes that instantly drops Kaga’s HP to 1*
Kaga: Gah!!! *collapses onto ground*
Kaeion: *sigh* Wondrous, isn’t it?
Tsukiyomi: KAGA!!!
*Tsukiyomi runs up to Kaga, but is immediately stopped by Kaeion*
Tsukiyomi: *gasp*
Kaeion: Now… I believe we have unfinished business…
*seeing Kaeion aim his bracelet at her, Tsukiyomi backs away*
Tsukiyomi: W-What are you g-gonna do to me!?
Kaeion: Aw, don’t be scared. In fact, you should feel honored. Your energetic spirit will serve greatly in the awakening of Althena.
Kaga: *struggles to stand up* T-Tsukiyomi…! *looks down at Spell Wiseman* I know you have some deep-rooted inner potential… I don’t know how to access that potential, but… *grasps grimoire with both hands* But I refuse to let Tsukiyomi die! So please! Please!!!
Tsukiyomi: *continues to back away* Look, I don’t know about all this Althena crap, but you’d better back off!
Kaeion: Hehehe… I’m afraid you’re in no position to make demands, my dear. Now then…
Tsukiyomi: …
Kaeion: …DATA--[/i]
: PHAVAK DON!!![/i][/size]
*before Kaeion could fire his Data Drain, he’s rained down upon by a volley of fiery comets*
Kaeion: GAH!!! Who…!?
*he turns around to see Kaga standing a short distance away from him, holding a fiery-glowing Spell Wiseman*
Kaga: I warned you to keep away from Tsukiyomi…
Kaeion: Well, well. You humans never cease to amaze me. However! *draws Spin Natsume* Your power could never hope to match mine!
Kaga: … *raises Spell Wiseman and closes eyes* “Resounding in the distant sky, my prayers morph into miraculous flames…”
*as Kaga chants, a thin stream of fire swirls around Kaeion’s body*
Kaeion: Hmm?
Kaga: “…As pure as the sunlight, your words move me as I am enveloped by wings of gold…”
*fiery wings suddenly sprout on Kaga’s back*
Tsukiyomi: Whoa…
Kaeion: Tch!
Kaga: “…The eternal blaze setting my soul aflame shall break away from the shackles of darkness and open the door to freedom…”
*as Kaga opens his eyes, he takes off into the sky and positions himself high above Kaeion*
Kaeion: *looks up at Kaga* What is he…?
Kaga: *sets own PC body on fire and plummets down onto Kaeion* “…Let’s you and I stride confidently towards a new tomorrow!” RENGEKI: BLAZE OF GLORY!!! [/size]
*Kaga’s collision with Kaeion triggers a massive explosion of fire, throwing Tsukiyomi back quite a distance due to the shockwave*
Tsukiyomi: WHOA!!!
*as the fires and smoke die down, Kaga is seen lying on the ground, lifeless, while Kaeion stands above him*
Kaga: …
Kaeion: …They fight to protect, even if it means putting their own lives at risk… Humans are such strange beings… *looks down at Kaga* …Truly, truly strange… *gates out*
Tsukiyomi: *runs up to Kaga and kneels down next to him* Kaga! Kaga, are you okay!?
Kaga: …
Tsukiyomi: Oh, Kaga…
Kaga’s Voice: …Um, Tsukiyomi?
Tsukiyomi: Huh?
Kaga’s Voice: Would it be asking too much for you to revive me?
Tsukiyomi: …Hehehehe…
*meanwhile, in another field-type area, Haseo and Hayate are seen gating in*
Hayate: So… Dekar’s here?
Haseo: …
Hayate: Hey! Haseo!
Haseo: … *points towards tree*
*looking ahead, Hayate notices Dekar leaning against a tree trunk*
Hayate: …D-Dekar…
Dekar: Hehehe… It’s about time, little Gorre. For being such a rash individual, you sure gave me quite the hassle of tracking you down. Now… *stands upright* …I understand you were looking for me as well?
Hayate: … *walks up to Dekar* You asked me…what I would do with this power if you were to teach me how to control it. You said that…you wouldn’t tell me anything until I was completely sure of myself and of what I wanted to do…
Dekar: …
Hayate: …I’ve decided. Well, to be more accurate, I decided long ago, but it was only until recently that I was confident in the decision I’ve made. I’m tired of being powerless. I’m tired of having those I care about taken away because I couldn’t protect them like I promised I would. That’s what I want to use this power for. That’s what I want to do. So please… Please teach me how to properly use this power.
Dekar: …
Hayate: … *gulp*
Dekar: … *turns to face the tree* You can come out now.
Hayate: Hmm?
*at Dekar’s command, a blond-haired Shadow Warlock wearing an oddly shaped hat steps out from behind the tree and approaches Hayate and Dekar*
Warlock: So this is the new Gorre, huh? Hmm… He looks kind of scrawny.
Dekar: Well, looks can be deceiving.
Hayate: W-Who are you? … *eye twitches* …And who are you calling scrawny!?
Dekar: Hayate… I’d like you to meet the Epitaph User of Gorre.
Sakubo: *smile* You can call me ‘Bo’.
Hayate: …‘Bo’, huh…?
~ Next Time on Infected! ~
Ayliori: Hey, Usa-chan! Ren! I wanna show you something!
Usa-chan: … *gasp* A-Ayliori!
Ren: W-What are you doing!?
~*~*~*~
Atoli: Wouldn’t it be weird if Innis’ Factor User turned out to be our daughter? Hahaha!
Ovan: …
~*~*~*~
Ayliori: W-What’s going on!? This isn’t supposed to happen!
~*~*~*~
Pi: What’s with these readings!?
Haseo: This convergence of data… It looks almost like an…
Endrance: …AIDA Server…!
~*~*~*~
Ovan: Listen to me, Atoli. If this progresses past the point of no return…we may have no choice than to…destroy Moon Tree.
Atoli: *gasp*
~*~*~*~
Usa-chan: Ayliori’s my friend too! I can’t just abandon her! I won’t!
38th Phase: The Mirage’s Miracle![/color]
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
*Izumi is seen sitting on the floor hugging her legs with her back against the wall*
Izumi: …
Orion: Izumi… You’ve been in that position ever since Hayate disappeared… You don’t even log off anymore… Have you been getting any sleep lately?
Izumi: …
Dawn Grunty: Oh, Izumi…
*moments later, Neon, Chibi-Usa, and Miharu collapse into the @home, exhausted of all energy*
Orion: Oh. You’re back. How’d it go?
Miharu: *panting* Floor…56…
Usa-chan: The twisting… The turning… It’s too much…
Neon: Has Izumi…said anything yet?
Orion: *shakes head* I’m afraid not.
Usa-chan: Grrrr… *hops to feet* This is all Hayate’s fault! Why’s he gotta be a total baby about everything!?
Orion: You can’t blame Hayate, Usa-chan. Try to see things from his point of view. Even with the power of the Factors, he couldn’t prevent Coolidge, Violet, and all those other players from falling into comas. Imagine how powerless he must feel right now.
Neon: It’s been 9 days. You think he’ll ever come back to The World?
Miharu: I hope so…
Usa-chan: Heck, for all we know, he could be logged in right now.
Orion: … *checks Member Address list* …Hey! He is logged in right now!
Usa-chan: Huh… I must be psychic or something…
Miharu: Okay, great, Hayate’s logged in. There’s just one problem: We have no idea where in The World he is!
Izumi: …
*all of a sudden, Izumi gets to her feet and exits the @home hastily*
Neon: I-Izumi?
Dawn Grunty: Where’s she going?
Orion: …Izumi…
*…Raven @home, Serpent of Lore…*
*Haseo is seen viewing footage of Hayate’s battle with Kaeion under Hulle Granz*
Haseo: …
Hayate (onscreen): *points blade sword at Kaeion* GIVE VIOLET BACK RIGHT NOW, YOU BASTARD!!![/size]
Kaeion (onscreen): Hmph. I’m afraid that’s impossible. You see-- G-GAH!!!
*before Kaeion could finish his sentence, the Caliburn is thrust straight through his right arm*
Hayate (onscreen): I’M NOT GONNA SAY IT A SECOND TIME!!![/size]
Kaeion (onscreen): Tch! *backs away from Hayate and draws dual swords* Why don’t you try and make me!?
Hayate (onscreen): Grrrr…
*just then, the faint image of an Avatar appears around Hayate’s PC body; as soon as Haseo sees this, he pauses the footage*
Haseo: …Hmm…
Ovan: *walks up to Haseo and looks at screen* Hayate showed extraordinary power in that battle, didn’t he? If only he could control that power…
Haseo: This image… What do you make of it, Ovan?
Ovan: Hmm… This is undeniable proof that Gorre is evolving… I believe the time has come to begin the next part of our operation.
Endrance: …Pi.
Pi: Yes?
Endrance: We need you to call a few…veterans back to the game.
Pi: …Understood.
Haseo: … *BEEP, BEEP!* Hmm?
Ovan: Something wrong, Haseo?
Haseo: …I’ll be right back. *exits the Serpent of Lore*
*as soon as Haseo exits the @home, he’s encountered by Izumi*
Haseo: Oh. It’s you. Is there something you want?
Izumi: You know where every player in The World is at every given moment, right!? Well, tell me where Hayate is!
Haseo: …I’m sorry. But I’m far too busy to be looking after a single PC. *turns away from Izumi*
Izumi: Please! I’m begging you! I know he’s logged in! Just tell me where I can find him!
Haseo: … *starts walking away*
Izumi: … *falls to knees* …Please…
*just before going back inside Raven, Haseo stops walking*
Haseo: …Σ Hidden Forbidden Miasma.
Izumi: Huh…?
Haseo: You’ll find him standing at the shore of the Vorpis Alph Sea.
Izumi: …Thank you. *stands up* Thank you so much, Haseo! *dashes towards Mac Anu dome*
Haseo: …Honestly… That boy has no idea how lucky he is to have a friend like her… *walks into Raven @home*
*meanwhile, at the shore of the Vorpis Alph Sea, Hayate is seen blankly staring into the water*
Hayate: …
*images of Coolidge, Violet, and the crowd of players at the Tanabata Festival begin to enter his mind*
Hayate: …
*images of Izumi and the rest of Glaive LeGable begin to enter his mind as well*
Hayate: …
*moments later, Izumi gates in and dashes towards the shore to find Hayate standing there*
Izumi: Hayate! You finally came back! Where’ve you been!?
Hayate: …
Izumi: It’s been over a week, Hayate! We’ve been worried sick about you! We thought you’d never come back to the game!
Hayate: …
Izumi: Please say something to me!!!
*just then, Hayate slowly turns around, walks up to Izumi…*
Izumi: H-Hayate?
*…and wraps his arms around her*
Izumi: *gasp*
Hayate: …I’m sorry… I’m sorry for making you worry…
Izumi: …Hayate…
Hayate: …But not anymore. I promise that I won’t make you worry anymore. I’ll become stronger… Stronger than ever… So that I can protect you… So that I can protect everyone… So that no one else has to die…
*Hayate lets go of Izumi and walks towards the transporter*
Izumi: …W-Wait! Hayate, where’re you going!?
Hayate: …To find him. *gates out*
Izumi: “Him”…?
*a little later, in a dungeon-type area, Kaga faces off against a ferocious boss monster several levels stronger than himself; in his hands he holds the Spell Wiseman*
Monster: *loud roar*
Kaga: (Alright… Focus…)
*he begins to pour energy into the staff and it gives off a faint silver glow*
Kaga: Come on… Come on… Come on!
*as Kaga concentrates, the monster swings its axe-like arm at him*
Monster: *loud roar*
Kaga: COME ON!!!
*all of a sudden, the energy built up inside the staff explodes; Kaga is sent flying into a wall…
Kaga: GAH!!!
*…and the monster is eradicated in an instant*
Kaga: …Dammit… Why can’t I get this right…!?
*frustrated, Kaga returns to Breg Epona*
Kaga: *sigh*
: There you are!Kaga: Hmm?
*he looks in front of him to see Tsukiyomi walking towards him*
Tsukiyomi: I’ve been looking for you, Kaga!
Kaga: Oh, not again…
Tsukiyomi: Help me find the bastard that stole my dual swords! And I won’t take no for an answer!
Kaga: Yomi, we’ve been over this! I’m not gonna help you get your dual swords back! You should just forget about them! Kaeion is way too powerful!
Tsukiyomi: But, Kaga…
Kaga: The last thing I’d want to see is you getting hurt, Yomi. You know, I’d be more than happy to find a new set of dual swords. Just forget about the Spin Natsume.
Tsukiyomi: …Okay. I get it. You don’t have faith in me. You think I’m weak.
Kaga: I never said--
Tsukiyomi: Fine!! If you’re not gonna help me get my dual swords back, then I’ll get them back on my own!! *gates out*
Kaga: Tsukiyomi! …Oh, boy…
*later on, Izumi returns to Glaive LeGable’s @home*
Izumi: …
Dawn Grunty: Izumi! You’re back!
Izumi: … *forces a smile* Hey.
Miharu: You okay there, Izumi? Did you find Hayate?
Izumi: …No.
Usa-chan: Awww… I wonder where he could be…
Orion: …
Izumi: …Orion? W-Why are you looking at me like that?
Orion: *enters a private chat with Izumi* You’re lying. You DID find Hayate, didn’t you?
Izumi: …Am I that easy to read?
Orion: Izumi. Don’t push yourself.
Izumi: I know. Thank you. *looks towards @home entrance* I have faith that Hayate will come back. Until then…I’ll wait.
Orion: *smile* Ah, young love.
Izumi: … *blush*
Neon: … *BEEP, BEEP!* Hmm? … *sigh* Great. Another meeting at Raven. And it looks like I have to go by myself. *stands up* Be back in a bit, guys.
Miharu: ‘Kay! Tell the others I said hi!
Neon: Will do! *walks out*
Orion: *stares into space* Hayate… I wonder what you’re thinking right now…
*meanwhile, in a random dungeon-type area, a group of Player Killers talks amongst themselves in front of the Beast Statue*
PK1: Hahaha! Really! The guy fell in, like, TWO seconds!
PK2: Oh, man! That’s priceless!
PK3: Hahahaha! Ahhh… Hmm? Hey, look, we got company.
PK1/PK2: Huh?
*the Player Killers turn to see Hayate standing before them*
PK2: And just what the hell do you want, shorty!?
Hayate: …Do you know of a player in The World named Dekar?
PK1: Dee-who?
Hayate: Dekar! The chief CEO of CC Corp.! Do you know him or not!?
PK3: Hehehe… Maybe we do… Then again, maybe we don’t…
Hayate: …Tell me. Now.
PK1: Now, is that any way to ask for something, kid? Why don’t you ask a little nicely?
Hayate: …This is pointless. *turns around and starts to walk away*
PK2: *draws chakrams* Hey! Where do you think you’re going!? You think you can just walk away after interrupting our conversation!?
PK1: Yeah! *draws broadsword* You need to learn some manners!
PK3: *draws dual swords* And we’re just the players to teach them to you!
*the Player Killer trio suddenly pounces onto Hayate*
Hayate: … *reaches for blade sword*
*in a blurry flash of speed, Hayate takes out the Player Killers in an instant; as the Player Killers’ PC bodies hit the floor, Hayate puts his blade sword away and gates out*
PK1: What…the hell…was that…?
PK2: I…don’t know…
*meanwhile, in a field-type area, Kaeion is seen absorbing more PC data for Althena*
Kaeion: Just a little bit more… A little bit more, and Althena’s power will be at its peak. *examines right arm* Hmm… My bracelet’s not at 100% yet…
*images of Hayate begin to circle Kaeion’s mind*
Kaeion: Grrrr… That kid…! If I ever see his face again, I’m gonna rip the Morganna Factor out of his PC and send him into a coma he’ll never awaken from…!
: There you are!!!Kaeion: Hmm…?
*Kaeion turns around to see Tsukiyomi standing a short distance away from him*
Kaeion: …I’m sorry. Do I know you?
Tsukiyomi: Damn right you know me! You have something that belongs to me!
Kaeion: … *raises eyebrow* You’re gonna have to be more specific than that.
Tsukiyomi: The Spin Natsume, you bastard! Hand ‘em over!
Kaeion: Spin Natsume? …Oh. Now I remember. You’re that loudmouthed Twin Blade.
Tsukiyomi: “LOUDMOUTHED”?!?
Kaeion: …Oh, yeah. I definitely remember you now. So… *takes out Spin Natsume* …it’s these you want?
Tsukiyomi: My dual swords!
Kaeion: Your dual swords? These dual swords, as well as the rest of the .hack//Arms, belong only to the almighty Althena!
Tsukiyomi: I found those dual swords first, so they’re mine! *draws dual swords* Now give ‘em back or else I’ll slice off your hands just to get to ‘em!
Kaeion: …You’re exactly the same…
Tsukiyomi: Huh?
Kaeion: *grits teeth* You’re exactly the same as that kid… Impulsive, noisy, no respect for your superiors… *draws broadsword* You people who deny Althena… You all irritate me to no end!
Tsukiyomi: … *gulp*
*in the Serpent of Lore, all of the Factor Users (except Hayate) meet with Pi and the Epitaph Users*
Ren: Is there something wrong, Haseo? Data Bug trouble?
Gwen: Or did that bastard Kaeion show his ugly face again?
Haseo: …I’d like to show you all something. Pi?
Pi: Right.
*at Haseo’s command, Pi plays footage of the battle between Hayate and Kaeion on the Serpent of Lore’s monitor display*
Neon: Hey, that’s that room under Hulle Granz.
Hayate (onscreen): *points blade sword at Kaeion* GIVE VIOLET BACK RIGHT NOW, YOU BASTARD!!![/size]
Kaeion (onscreen): Tch! *backs away from Hayate and draws dual swords* Why don’t you try and make me!?
Hayate (onscreen): Grrrr…
*the faint image of an Avatar appears around Hayate’s PC body; as soon as this appears, Pi pauses the footage*
Kyuzo: Whoa.
Vyce: What is that?
Ovan: Back during the days of G.U., this is what we referred as an “Avatar”. Each of the eight Epitaph Users – Haseo, Atoli, Kuhn, Yata, Sakubo, Endrance, Pi, and I – would utilize these Avatars to rid The World of AIDA. As you can see here, you Factor Users are capable of reaching the same state. Although they’re on a much smaller scale, that doesn’t make them any less powerful.
Gwen: …That’s pretty cool and all, but what does this have to do with why we’re here?
Pi: *stands up and faces Factor Users* Althena is dangerously close to awakening. If, by some off-chance, we cannot prevent that, you will likely have to do battle against her. In order to do that, you’ll have to have completely mastered use of your Factors, including the Avatar form. …You all are going to undergo some training.
Neon: Training? By you guys?
Haseo: Well… *smirk* …Not only us. *calls out to Serpent of Lore’s entrance* You can come in now.
*the Factor Users turn their attention to the Serpent of Lore’s entrance, where they see Atoli, the guildmaster of Moon Tree, and a second player with long blue hair tied into a ponytail walk in*
Atoli: Hello, everyone.
: Hey. How’s it goin’?Endrance: The two individuals you see before you are both Epitaph Users. Atoli, the Epitaph User of Innis, and Kuhn, the Epitaph User of Magus.
Ren: WHAT!? Atoli, you’re an Epitaph User!?
Atoli: *smile* Mm-hmm.
Ovan: As Pi mentioned, you are all going to undergo training to master use of your Factors. Your teacher will be your corresponding user of that Phase of Morganna.
Endrance: Kyuzo will train under Haseo, Neon under Kuhn, Gwen under Pi, Ren under Ovan, and Vyce under myself. We’ve already had Atoli agree to train the Factor User of Innis soon after it manifests.
Kyuzo: Hey, Epitaph guys, your math is way off. You’re two Epitaph Users short.
Pi: We already have the Epitaph User of Gorre out in the field in search of Hayate. As for the Epitaph User of Fidchell…well…
Haseo: At the moment, we have no idea where Fidchell’s Epitaph User or Factor User are located, so until either one appears before us, we’re gonna have to bide our time.
Kuhn: *walks up to Neon* So, you’re the new Magus, huh? Nice to meet ya.
Neon: …
Kuhn: …W-Why are you looking at me like that?
Neon: …
Neon: Girls, please, control yourselves!
Girl 1: Neon!!! I love you!!!
Girl 2: Just one little kiss!!!
Girl 3: Back off, bimbo!!! Neon’s mine!!!
Girl 4: Over my dead body!!!
Girl 1: That can be arranged!!!
Neon: …You’re the reason all those girls mobbed me at Coiste-Bodhar.
Kuhn: Hehehe… *sweatdrop* I’m real sorry about that.
*just then, a signal on the Serpent of Lore’s monitor starts to beep rapidly*
Endrance: What’s that?
Pi: The system’s finally located Hayate.
Ovan: Was he that difficult to track down?
Pi: He was more than likely using the power of Gorre to move swiftly between areas. At least now we can… Huh?
Haseo: What’s the matter, Pi?
Pi: …Haseo… I think you may want to look at this.
*Pi turns Haseo’s attention to the monitor*
PC (onscreen): You lookin’ for a fight, blondie!?
Hayate (onscreen): I’m not looking for a fight. But I’ll give you one if you don’t tell me what I want to know. Now tell me if you know where Dekar is!
PC (onscreen): Dekar this, Dekar that – you’re like a broken record! *attacks Hayate* Just shut up already!!!
*in a blurry flash of speed, Hayate takes out the Player Killer in an instant*
PK (onscreen): Ohhhh…
Hayate (onscreen): …A waste of my time. *gates out*
Haseo: Tch! Dammit all…!
*just then, Haseo gates out of the Serpent of Lore in a flash of black fire, leaving a scorch mark on the ground where he once stood*
Vyce: What’s with him?
Pi: Let’s just say…that Haseo’s trying to prevent the second coming of the “Terror of Death”…
*a short time later, in a field-type area, Hayate corners a group of players in the Beast Temple*
PC1: W-What do you want with us!?
Hayate: I don’t want to hurt you… Just tell me if you know where Dekar is.
PC2: Dekar? You mean the owner of The World?
Hayate: So you DO know him! Where is he!? Tell me!
PC3: We have no idea. That guy’s constantly on the move.
Hayate: …
PC1: Sorry we couldn’t help you out.
Hayate: …You’re lying.
PC3: Huh…?
Hayate: *glares at player group* You’re the third group of players I’ve talked to today who say they know Dekar, and the third group of players who claim they don’t know where he is! Don’t screw with me!
PC2: B-But we told you already! He’s always on the move! He never stays in the same place for longer than, like, 5 hours!
Hayate: … *draws Vorpal Sword* …You’ve had your chance.
PC’s: *gasp*
*Hayate suddenly pounces onto the player group; the players all close their eyes and wait for their death to come; all of a sudden, the sound of clashing weapons echoes throughout the Beast Temple; the players open their eyes to see Hayate clashing his sword with Haseo’s broadsword*
PC1: H-Haseo of the Black Flame!
Haseo: *turns to players* Get out of here!
PC2: R-Right! Okay!
*while Haseo fends off Hayate, the players warp back to Mac Anu; Haseo uses his free hand to blast Hayate away with a burst of black fire; Hayate flies back onto the ground*
Hayate: Oof!
Haseo: Get a hold of yourself, Hayate! You’re out of control!
Hayate: *hops to feet* Haseo! You’re one of the top administrators in The World! You must know where Dekar is!
Haseo: I told you to get a hold of yourself!
Hayate: NOT UNTIL YOU TELL ME WHERE TO FIND DEKAR!!! I JUST HAVE TO GET STRONGER!!![/size]
Haseo: *gasp*
*just then, where Hayate is standing, Haseo sees a ghost of his former self*
Haseo: I want you to tell me where Tri-Edge is!!! I have to get stronger!!!
Haseo: No… Not again…
Hayate: If you’re not gonna tell me…then I’ll FORCE the answers out of you! *dashes at Haseo*
Haseo: NO!!![/i][/size]
*just then, Haseo blasts Hayate away with an even stronger burst of black fire; Hayate flies back onto the ground with his HP almost at zero*
Haseo: Stop this…right now… This isn’t the way… It never was…
Hayate: *slowly gets up* I have…to get stronger… *grasps Vorpal Sword* I won’t stop…UNTIL I DO!!! *dashes at Haseo again*
Haseo: *gasp*
*just then, the Vorpal Sword in Hayate’s hands give off a powerful icy blue glow, causing Hayate to drop the blade and fall to his knees*
Hayate: GAH!!! Cold!!! *looks at Vorpal Sword* Saku-neechan…why…?
*the Vorpal Sword’s glow grows brighter and weaker in quick intervals, as if it were responding to Hayate’s words*
Hayate: …“This isn’t right…”?
Vorpal Sword: …
Hayate: …“Resorting to killing random players won’t make me stronger…”?
Haseo: *walks up to Hayate* I was once like you, you know.
Hayate: *looks up at Haseo* Huh?
Haseo: I thought the only way to get stronger was to defeat those stronger than me. …But…
Haseo: This guy…killed Shino… *draws dual swords* YOU BASTARD!!!
Haseo: …
Hayate: …
Haseo: …You’re looking for Dekar, right?
Hayate: Huh? Y-Yeah.
Haseo: Well, it just so happens he’s looking for you as well.
Hayate: H-He is!?
Haseo: Promise me that you won’t kill meaninglessly anymore…and I’ll take you to him.
Hayate: I will! I promise!
Haseo: … *extends hand to Hayate*
Hayate: …
*as soon as Hayate takes Haseo’s hand, the two gate out together in a flash of black fire; meanwhile…*
Tsukiyomi: AAAHHH!!!
*Tsukiyomi is tosses back onto the ground once again, her HP dangerously low*
Tsukiyomi: D-Damn you…
Kaeion: Now…why don’t you be a good little girl and surrender? I spared you your life once; that doesn’t mean I’ll be merciful this time as well…
Tsukiyomi: Grrrr… *struggles to return to feet* Don’t underestimate me…
Kaeion: Underestimate you!? HAH! You can’t even stay standing for longer than 30 seconds!
Tsukiyomi: *grits teeth, charges again* Grrrrraaaaahhhhh!!!!!
*just before Tsukiyomi could connect her attack, Kaeion outstretches his arm and grabs her by the neck*
Kaeion: You’re really beginning to bore me, girl…
Tsukiyomi: *gasp, choking*
Kaeion: Perhaps I shouldn’t have spared your life back then… *readies bracelet* Well, I won’t make the same mistake twice…
*Tsukiyomi flails about as Kaeion aims his bracelet at her chest*
Kaeion: … *smirk* I was wondering when you’d show up.
*Kaga is seen standing behind Kaeion, holding the Spell Wiseman to his back*
Kaga: …Drop her. Now.
Kaeion: Oh, come now. You and I both know that I’ll have ended her life far sooner than you could strike me with that trinket.
Kaga: You end her life…I end yours. *smirk* A fair trade, wouldn’t you say?
Kaeion: …You’re bluffing. You haven’t even figured out how to tap into a .hack//Arm’s inner power.
Kaga: …Try me.
Kaeion: …Hehehe.
*as Kaeion’s grip on Tsukiyomi’s neck loosens, time almost appears to slow down as Kaeion spins around and unleashes his broadsword upon Kaga; as Kaeion does this, Kaga surges fire magic through the Spell Wiseman; however, his lack of control over the .hack//Arm causes the accumulated fire energy to explode, sending Kaga, Tsukiyomi, and Kaeion flying and crashing to three opposing ends of the field*
Tsukiyomi: *dizzied* What just happened?
Kaeion: *stands up and dusts self off* Hehe. Just as I thought.
Kaga: (Dammit… Even now, I still can’t get it right!)
Kaeion: Watch and learn, Wave Templar… *draws Spin Natsume*
Tsukiyomi: Hey! My dual swords!
Kaeion: This…is how a .hack//Arm is truly put to use!
*as Kaeion dashes towards Kaga, the Spin Natsume start to give off a faint silver glow*
Kaeion: GHOST FALCON!!!
*once within range, Kaeion unleashes a multitude of strikes that instantly drops Kaga’s HP to 1*
Kaga: Gah!!! *collapses onto ground*
Kaeion: *sigh* Wondrous, isn’t it?
Tsukiyomi: KAGA!!!
*Tsukiyomi runs up to Kaga, but is immediately stopped by Kaeion*
Tsukiyomi: *gasp*
Kaeion: Now… I believe we have unfinished business…
*seeing Kaeion aim his bracelet at her, Tsukiyomi backs away*
Tsukiyomi: W-What are you g-gonna do to me!?
Kaeion: Aw, don’t be scared. In fact, you should feel honored. Your energetic spirit will serve greatly in the awakening of Althena.
Kaga: *struggles to stand up* T-Tsukiyomi…! *looks down at Spell Wiseman* I know you have some deep-rooted inner potential… I don’t know how to access that potential, but… *grasps grimoire with both hands* But I refuse to let Tsukiyomi die! So please! Please!!!
Tsukiyomi: *continues to back away* Look, I don’t know about all this Althena crap, but you’d better back off!
Kaeion: Hehehe… I’m afraid you’re in no position to make demands, my dear. Now then…
Tsukiyomi: …
Kaeion: …DATA--[/i]
: PHAVAK DON!!![/i][/size]*before Kaeion could fire his Data Drain, he’s rained down upon by a volley of fiery comets*
Kaeion: GAH!!! Who…!?
*he turns around to see Kaga standing a short distance away from him, holding a fiery-glowing Spell Wiseman*
Kaga: I warned you to keep away from Tsukiyomi…
Kaeion: Well, well. You humans never cease to amaze me. However! *draws Spin Natsume* Your power could never hope to match mine!
Kaga: … *raises Spell Wiseman and closes eyes* “Resounding in the distant sky, my prayers morph into miraculous flames…”
*as Kaga chants, a thin stream of fire swirls around Kaeion’s body*
Kaeion: Hmm?
Kaga: “…As pure as the sunlight, your words move me as I am enveloped by wings of gold…”
*fiery wings suddenly sprout on Kaga’s back*
Tsukiyomi: Whoa…
Kaeion: Tch!
Kaga: “…The eternal blaze setting my soul aflame shall break away from the shackles of darkness and open the door to freedom…”
*as Kaga opens his eyes, he takes off into the sky and positions himself high above Kaeion*
Kaeion: *looks up at Kaga* What is he…?
Kaga: *sets own PC body on fire and plummets down onto Kaeion* “…Let’s you and I stride confidently towards a new tomorrow!” RENGEKI: BLAZE OF GLORY!!! [/size]
*Kaga’s collision with Kaeion triggers a massive explosion of fire, throwing Tsukiyomi back quite a distance due to the shockwave*
Tsukiyomi: WHOA!!!
*as the fires and smoke die down, Kaga is seen lying on the ground, lifeless, while Kaeion stands above him*
Kaga: …
Kaeion: …They fight to protect, even if it means putting their own lives at risk… Humans are such strange beings… *looks down at Kaga* …Truly, truly strange… *gates out*
Tsukiyomi: *runs up to Kaga and kneels down next to him* Kaga! Kaga, are you okay!?
Kaga: …
Tsukiyomi: Oh, Kaga…
Kaga’s Voice: …Um, Tsukiyomi?
Tsukiyomi: Huh?
Kaga’s Voice: Would it be asking too much for you to revive me?
Tsukiyomi: …Hehehehe…
*meanwhile, in another field-type area, Haseo and Hayate are seen gating in*
Hayate: So… Dekar’s here?
Haseo: …
Hayate: Hey! Haseo!
Haseo: … *points towards tree*
*looking ahead, Hayate notices Dekar leaning against a tree trunk*
Hayate: …D-Dekar…
Dekar: Hehehe… It’s about time, little Gorre. For being such a rash individual, you sure gave me quite the hassle of tracking you down. Now… *stands upright* …I understand you were looking for me as well?
Hayate: … *walks up to Dekar* You asked me…what I would do with this power if you were to teach me how to control it. You said that…you wouldn’t tell me anything until I was completely sure of myself and of what I wanted to do…
Dekar: …
Hayate: …I’ve decided. Well, to be more accurate, I decided long ago, but it was only until recently that I was confident in the decision I’ve made. I’m tired of being powerless. I’m tired of having those I care about taken away because I couldn’t protect them like I promised I would. That’s what I want to use this power for. That’s what I want to do. So please… Please teach me how to properly use this power.
Dekar: …
Hayate: … *gulp*
Dekar: … *turns to face the tree* You can come out now.
Hayate: Hmm?
*at Dekar’s command, a blond-haired Shadow Warlock wearing an oddly shaped hat steps out from behind the tree and approaches Hayate and Dekar*
Warlock: So this is the new Gorre, huh? Hmm… He looks kind of scrawny.
Dekar: Well, looks can be deceiving.
Hayate: W-Who are you? … *eye twitches* …And who are you calling scrawny!?
Dekar: Hayate… I’d like you to meet the Epitaph User of Gorre.
Sakubo: *smile* You can call me ‘Bo’.
Hayate: …‘Bo’, huh…?
~ Next Time on Infected! ~
Ayliori: Hey, Usa-chan! Ren! I wanna show you something!
Usa-chan: … *gasp* A-Ayliori!
Ren: W-What are you doing!?
~*~*~*~
Atoli: Wouldn’t it be weird if Innis’ Factor User turned out to be our daughter? Hahaha!
Ovan: …
~*~*~*~
Ayliori: W-What’s going on!? This isn’t supposed to happen!
~*~*~*~
Pi: What’s with these readings!?
Haseo: This convergence of data… It looks almost like an…
Endrance: …AIDA Server…!
~*~*~*~
Ovan: Listen to me, Atoli. If this progresses past the point of no return…we may have no choice than to…destroy Moon Tree.
Atoli: *gasp*
~*~*~*~
Usa-chan: Ayliori’s my friend too! I can’t just abandon her! I won’t!
38th Phase: The Mirage’s Miracle![/color]
