Post by Hayate on May 6, 2008 18:22:50 GMT -5
~ Eternal City of Mac Anu; August 5, 2037 ~
*…Raven @home, Serpent of Lore…*
*the Epitaph Users and Epitaph Knights look on at all eight Factor Users*
Haseo: …
Kyuzo: …
Atoli: …
Ayliori: …
Kuhn: …
Neon: …
Sakubo: …
Hayate: …
Endrance: …
Vyce: …
Pi: …
Gwen: …
Ovan: …
Ren: …
Zenjiro: …
Kyuzo: …Geez, you could cut the tension in here with a freakin’ knife…
Gwen: Yeah. What’s with the silent treatment?
Endrance: We apologize.
Sakubo: It’s weird, isn’t it? I mean, all 8 Factor Users have come together for the first time, and yet we’re not celebrating.
Haseo: This should indeed be the time to celebrate, shouldn’t it…? And yet, the circumstances through which we’ve come to this point don’t set the mood for it…
Sakubo: …I guess you’re right.
Pi: …
Zenjiro: …Is there a reason you’re staring at me, miss?
Pi: Hehehe… Forgive me. You just remind me of someone I used to know. *turns to Kuhn* Besides from the skin color, he’s practically Yata’s spitting image, don’t you think?
Kuhn: Actually, I was thinking that too. Hehehe.
Ovan: …So… Zenjiro, was it?
Zenjiro: Yes.
Ovan: We’d like to discuss with you the events that transpired earlier today…
Zenjiro: …
*a couple hours earlier…*
Kaeion: Zenjiro, eh? Tch! And what gives you the right to interfere!?
Zenjiro: Heh. No right whatsoever. But…it looked to me like you were about to cut the lives of these players short. And that… *straightens glasses* …I couldn’t let happen.
Kaeion: You ballsy little… *readies Spin Natsume* You’re gonna wish you had stayed away!
*as Kaeion and Zenjiro meet in a clash of weapons, the members of Glaive LeGable watch*
Hayate: Where the heck did this guy come from…?
Neon: No clue… But what I wanna know is how he’s able to fight Kaeion on equal footing…
Kaeion: Chaotic Strike!!!
*Kaeion carries Zenjiro into the air and, as Zenjiro defends with his fans, swings his dual swords several times at blinding speed*
Zenjiro: Now it’s my turn! Rengeki: Issei Ougi!
*as he hovered in midair, Zenjiro flings his fans forward; the two fans merge into one larger fan that spins like a buzzsaw; the spinning fan connects with Kaeion’s body, slicing into his torso*
Kaeion: GAAAAH!!!!
*Kaeion returns to the ground and stands on one knee; mass amounts of blood was pouring from his stomach; Zenjiro returns to the ground as well and his fans return to his hands*
Zenjiro: *straightens glasses* …Heh. *looks at Kaeion* Had enough yet? Or would you rather I not hold back anymore?
Kaeion: Grrrr… You wretch! How dare you condescend me!
*Kaeion’s body suddenly gives off a yellow Epitaph glow*
Kaeion: I’ll send you straight to the netherworld!
Zenjiro: Hmm… It would seem that holding back is no longer an option here…
*Zenjiro concentrates his energies and his body gives off a yellow Epitaph glow as well*
All: *gasp*
Hayate: The Factor User of Fidchell?!?
Neon: I thought Kaeion destroyed him!!
Kaeion: Hehehe… Hahahaha! The Fidchell Factor within me did feel a tad incomplete after a short while! And yet here stands the remainder of Fidchell’s data right before me! There’s just no end to my good fortune, is there!?
Zenjiro: There’s no such thing as never-ending good luck… Now then… *raises fans* …I’ll be taking the Fidchell Factor back now, if you please. I would prefer you relinquish it to me without a struggle.
Kaeion: Hmph! *puts Spin Natsume away and draws broadsword* You clearly don’t know me that well! *charges forward* Allow me to educate you!!!
*Kaeion leaps into the air and plummets down onto Zenjiro with his broadsword; however, Kaeion’s sword would connects with Zenjiro’s afterimage, as he had used Fidchell’s power of Teleportation to dodge Kaeion’s attack*
Kaeion: What the…!?
*Zenjiro reappears in the air above Kaeion, pointing the palm of his hand down at him*
Kaeion: *looks up* What?!?
Zenjiro: Fidchell Factor ~ Will of the Gods!!!
*a small orb fires swiftly forward from Zenjiro’s hand and creates a spherical cage around Kaeion*
Kaeion: W-What is this!?
Zenjiro: *forms ninja-like seal with hands* KATSU!!!
*from within the spherical cage, a condensed explosion is triggered; the cage vanishes and Kaeion falls onto the ground*
Kaeion: N-No…!! I…cannot… WILL not…be defeated…!!
Usa-chan: Wow… Look at Mr. Prophet go… He’s totally owning Kaeion…
Orion: Perhaps it’s because the part of Fidchell inside Kaeion is reacting negatively to the part of Fidchell inside that Dance Macabre…
Zenjiro: …Well?
Kaeion: *looks up at Zenjiro* Grrrr… Damn you to hell… *gates out*
Zenjiro: …[/i]
Ovan: …So here’s my first question: How did you come to realize you were the Factor User of Fidchell, the Prophet?
Zenjiro: I was…informed.
Endrance: By whom?
Zenjiro: I…I’m sorry. I’m under vow not to divulge that information.
Ovan: …
Kuhn: So who was it that taught you how to utilize the Fidchell Factor?
Zenjiro: The same person who told me I was Fidchell’s Factor User to begin with, of course.
Pi: Explain to us how and when this person approached you.
Zenjiro: Let’s see… It was exactly one week ago…
*one week earlier, Zenjiro is seen purchasing something from the Medic Guild’s mini-shop in Mac Anu’s Central District*
Zenjiro: I’ll take this, please. *hands GP to shop owner*
Medic Guild Shop Clerk: Pleasure doing business with you!
*having purchased the item he’d been searching for, Zenjiro turns around and prepares to head for the dome…*
Zenjiro: …Hmm?
*…when he sees Samekh standing a few feet away from him*
Samekh: … *smile* Hello there.
Zenjiro: …Hello. Can I help you in some way?
Samekh: As a matter of fact, you can…
Zenjiro: …
*a short time later, Samekh is seen talking to Zenjiro at the Great Temple of Caerleon Medb*
Zenjiro: …Factor User?
Samekh: Yes. You are one of eight individuals who possess the power to change the course of this world. The name of this power you hold…is “Fidchell”. But your power is only a quarter of its maximum potential, 40% at best. The rest of your power lies in the hands of a Wandering AI who seeks to use it for evil purposes. If left unchecked, this entire world would come crashing down upon us.
Zenjiro: …My, my… And up until this point, I thought I had this game all figured out. Hehehe.
Samekh: Hehe… Likewise. You know, Zenjiro, we’re not so different, you and I. Truth be told, I at one time wielded the power that you now possess. …You’re my successor, so to speak. So I offer to you a proposal. I will teach you how to control this power – the power of Fidchell. And all I ask in return is this: …Confront this Wandering AI. Make Fidchell whole again. And don’t let this world come to an end.
Zenjiro: …Mr. Samekh…
Samekh: *turns away from Zenjiro* …This world is far too valuable to just let crumble. …Can you do that for me, Zenjiro?
Zenjiro: …
Zenjiro: …So during the days that followed, that person instructed me on how to use this power. Of course, until it reunites with the portion of Fidchell that Kaeion has, it’s only at 50% of its full strength. On top of that, I’m unable to use my Avatar.
Atoli: I see… That’s too bad…
Zenjiro: *smiles* Please, don’t feel sorry for me. If anything, I’m honored to be such a focal element in something this vast.
Hayate: So until Kaeion shows up again, we’re at another dead end?
Haseo: …It would appear so…
Ayliori: Aw, man… Nothing’s ever easy, is it?
Pi: Don’t be discouraged. All eight Factor Users have been gathered together at last. This is a great step forward in our goals.
Gwen: *shrugs shoulders* If you say so…
Ovan: You’re all dismissed for now. Zenjiro, I hope we can count on your support in the near future.
Zenjiro: Of course. After all, I still have to keep up my end of the bargain with…that man. *bows* If you’ll excuse me then… *turns around and walks out*
Ovan: …Pi.
Pi: Yes?
Ovan: That player that you’d been tracking for me… Where is he now?
Pi: *typing on console keyboard* …He’s at--
Ovan: Wait.
Pi: Hmm?
Ovan: … *smirk* On second thought…I think I know just where to find him. *gates out*
Atoli: Ovan? …Where’s he going?
Pi: …To meet with an old friend.
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Battlefield ~ Backtop City Megin Fi*
*Samekh is seen looking up at the moon shining down on the Lost Ground*
Samekh: …
*moments later, the sound of Megin Fi’s double-door entrance opening is heard*
Samekh: … *smiles*
*Ovan is seen approaching Samekh from behind*
Ovan: …
Samekh: The all-powerful Ovan of the Blue Lightning… To what do I owe the pleasure of this unexpected visit?
Ovan: … *straightens glasses* …I met your little protégé earlier today.
Samekh: Protégé? *smirk* I have no idea what you mean.
Ovan: No…? Hehehe…
*Ovan walks up and gazes at the moon alongside Samekh*
Ovan: …Then how is it I knew that you would come to this place? The place where everything began?
Samekh: …Maybe I just happen to like this particular Lost Ground.
Ovan: …Perhaps.
Samekh: …So…
Ovan: Hmm?
Samekh: Quite a piece of work, isn’t he?
Ovan: Who?
Samekh: Zenjiro, of course.
Ovan: … *smirk*
Samekh: So, all eight Factor Users have finally come together… Quite an accomplishment, isn’t it?
Ovan: …So I was right. It is you after all…Yata.
Samekh: Hehehe… Come now, Ovan. You knew it was me all along. I must be losing my touch.
Ovan: …It’s been a while, Takumi.
Samekh: Likewise, Alexander.
~ Cultural City of Dol Dona; August 6, 2037 ~
*Kyuzo is seen talking to a pair of girls in Dol Dona*
Kyuzo: So, what do you say, ladies? A night on the town sounds good, don’t it?
Girl PC1: Hehehe… I think I’ll pass.
Girl PC2: Yeah, me too.
Kyuzo: Awww… You sure you wanna turn all this down?
Both Girl PCs: …We’re sure…
: …Mr. Kyuzo.
Kyuzo: Huh? *turns around to see Zenjiro* …Oh. It’s just you. *turns back to the girls* Okay, ladies! Last chance! You don’t know what you’re passing up here!
Girl PCs: Ugh…
Zenjiro: *approaches the girls* I apologize deeply for my friend’s behavior. You may go, ladies. I’ll be sure to discipline Kyuzo accordingly.
Girl PC2: Uh… S-Sure. Thanks.
*with that, the girls begin to walk away*
Girl PC1: …That Macabre was kinda cute, wasn’t he?
Girl PC2: Hehehe, yeah… And so polite too…
Kyuzo: … *looks at Zenjiro* Dude, you make a terrible wingman.
Zenjiro: I wasn’t trying to be a wingman, Mr. Kyuzo. Do you really think harassing young girls is appropriate behavior for a Factor User?
Kyuzo: And what makes you so sure about how a Factor User’s supposed to act!? You’ve only been one for a day!
Zenjiro: …Week.
Kyuzo: Like it matters! Look, I wanna be perfectly clear on this: Just ‘cuz you’re a Factor User, that doesn’t give you the right to muscle in on MY territory! From now on, you’d better keep your distance! Get me!?
Zenjiro: …I’ll be sure to keep that in mind… *BEEP, BEEP!* Hmm? *reads short mail* …Kaeion! He’s emerged at Briona Gwydion!
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Dragonbein ~ Briona Gwydion the Dragonbein Range*
*Kaeion is seen standing on top of the Tri-Edge sign with his arms spread to his sides and his eyes closed*
Kaeion: “…Never to return, the shadowed one, who quests for the Twilight Dragon…”
*his body gives off a faint purple aura*
Kaeion: Ahhh… Althena, your warmth is intoxicating…
*just then, the 8 Factor Users approach Kaeion from behind*
Kaeion: *groan, turns to face Factor Users* You are all becoming excruciatingly annoying…
Gwen: *draws lance* The feeling’s mutual, ya bastard…
*as the Factor Users prepare to do battle with Kaeion, the Epitaph Users watch from the Serpent of Lore*
Atoli: …Good luck, everyone…
Haseo: Is there any way to keep Kaeion from gating out so that Zenjiro could extract the Fidchell Factor from him?
Pi: I’m afraid not. I could create a powerful battle fence with such effects, but Kaeion’s data is far too advanced for the fence to keep restrained.
Endrance: His data’s melded with the Fidchell Factor, right? So can’t you configure the fence to box in Fidchell’s data alone?
Pi: That could work, but I’d need a more powerful sample of Fidchell’s data than the one Zenjiro provides.
: …Perhaps I can help.
Sakubo: Hmm? *turns around* … *gasp* Y-Yata!
Pi: *gasp*
*Yata is seen standing next to Ovan using his original Epitaph User PC*
Yata: Heh. It’s been a while.
Pi: …M-Master Yata…
*meanwhile…*
Vyce: Dust Bullet!
*Vyce fires at Kaeion a series of bullets from a Steam Gunner bayonet; Kaeion spins his left Spin Natsume at supersonic speed to fend off the bullets; meanwhile, Hayate and Kyuzo attack from the air*
Hayate/Kyuzo: Disaster Sword!
*as soon as Vyce’s bullets stop firing, Kaeion points his dual swords up to defend against Hayate and Kyuzo’s Brandier double-team; Kaeion then interlocks his blades with their blades and spins around, causing Hayate and Kyuzo to fly towards opposite ends of the Lost Ground*
Kaeion: Hmph!
*meanwhile, Gwen and Zenjiro are seen across the Gwydion bridge standing side-by-side*
Zenjiro: Ready?
Gwen: You bet!
*the duo dashes forward towards Kaeion*
Kaeion: Hmm?
Zenjiro: Rengeki: Zetsu!!!
*Zenjiro points his fans side-by-side, forming a circle; the fans then give off a powerful glow; from out of the fans emerges a dragon composed entirely of magic*
Zenjiro: Now!
Gwen: Gotcha!
*Gwen leaps into the air and rides on top of the dragon as it flies towards Kaeion*
Kaeion: Tch!
*Kaeion swiftly substitutes his dual swords for his broadsword and cleaves the energy dragon in half; Gwen leaps off of the dragon at the last second and lands on the ground behind Kaeion*
Gwen: Gotcha this time! Air Raid!!!
*Gwen thrusts her lance at Kaeion’s back…*
Kaeion: Don’t think so!
*…but her attack is intercepted by one of Kaeion’s Spin Natsume*
Gwen: What the?!?
Neon: A broadsword in the left hand, and a dual sword in the right!? No way!!!
Kaeion: Hehehe!
Neon: Grrrr…[/color] Magus Factor ~ Unforgiving Bud![/i]
*Neon releases from his hand 10 small seeds that shoot forth at Kaeion*
Kaeion: Seeds!? You must be joking!
*Gwen leaps out of the way for the 10 seeds to connect with Kaeion’s broadsword, triggering a rapid series of explosions; the Lost Ground is coated by a layer of smoke*
Kaeion: *coughing* Damn you… I can’t see a thing through this blasted smoke…!
*just then, Kaeion would feel his feet becoming frigid cold*
Kaeion: W-What the hell!?
*behind Kaeion, Kyuzo is seen holding his hand out towards the AI*
Kyuzo: Skeith Factor ~ Judgment![/i]
*the ice covering Kaeion’s feet begins to slowly rise up his legs and up to his waist*
Kaeion: Oh, no, you don’t!
*Kaeion concentrates his energies and coats his body in blue fire, instantly melting the ice; he then spins around to strike Kyuzo with his broadsword*
Kyuzo: Gah!
Kaeion: Hmph!
: Innis Factor ~ Thunder Trance![/i][/color]
: Tarvos Factor ~ Stake of Death![/i][/color]
: Corbenik Factor ~ Clinch Needle![/i][/color]
*Kaeion is suddenly assaulted by a volley of pink spikes from the left side, black needles from the right side, and a series of lightning spheres from above*
Kaeion: …Tch…
*another massive explosion dissipates the wind and Kaeion is seen standing with his head facing down*
Ayliori: Did we get him…?
*just then, Kaeion’s body glows with yellow Epitaph symbols*
Hayate: That’s a negative!
Kaeion: ……Fidchell Factor[/i][/b]……Quadra Halo[/i][/color]……
*four golden discs materialize around Kaeion’s body*
Kaeion: No more… This is where it all ends… IT ALL ENDS RIGHT NOW!!!
*the four discs start to vibrate and rotate around Kaeion’s body at high speed; moments later, the discs shoot forth powerful laser blasts that cover the entire Lost Ground; everyone struck by these blasts would be blown away*
All: AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!![/i][/size]
*the Epitaph Users at the Lost Ground would momentarily lose their signal because of this attack*
Haseo: Get the feed back!!!
Pi: I’m trying!!!
Haseo: Yata, is it ready yet!?
Yata: I need a little more time 30 seconds maybe, one minute tops.
Haseo: *bits thumb* (We can’t afford to mess this up…!) Pi, open a transmission channel to Zenjiro’s PC body!
Pi: Right!
*at Briona Gwydion, the smoke dies down and Kaeion is seen catching his breath; out of the eight Factor Users, only Zenjiro was left standing, but just barely*
Zenjiro: *panting* …Hmm? Haseo? …Yes. I understand.
Kaeion: You pests… Don’t you ever give up?
Zenjiro: *stands up straight and straightens glasses* Humans are the most resilient creatures on the planet Earth, Kaeion. We never say die.
Kaeion: Tch! *readies broadsword* Then allow me to say it for you!!! *dashes forward* DIE!!!!!
*Zenjiro readies his fans and prepares to do battle once more; just then, a giant dome appears the Lost Ground, locking Kaeion and Zenjiro inside*
Kaeion: *stops running* What!? What trickery is this!?
Zenjiro: (There it is! Now’s my chance!)
*with Kaeion distracted, Zenjiro sprints forward and…*
Zenjiro: YAAAAHHHH!!!![/i]
*…thrusts his hand into Kaeion’s chest*
Kaeion: *deep gasp* W-What…!? What are you…!?
Zenjiro: *smirk* …You have something that belongs to me…
Kaeion: I… I c-can’t gate out…!! W-What’s going on…!?
*Zenjiro pulls a golden sphere of energy out of Kaeion’s body and immediately melds it with the Fidchell Factor within him*
Zenjiro: Got it!
Kaeion: H-How!? This is…impossible…!!!
*meanwhile…*
Pi: …It worked!! The Fidchell Factor’s at 100% now!!
Atoli: HE DID IT!!!
Haseo: *sigh* (Thank God…) …Alright, Zenjiro. Finish the job.
Zenjiro: … *clenches fists* …As you wish.
Kaeion: No… Althena…
*from outside the dome, the remaining 7 Factor Users hear Kaeion’s scream of pain*
Gwen: Whoa… I’d hate to be in Kaeion’s shoes right now…
Hayate: That’s for sure…
*as the dome disappears, Zenjiro is seen standing above Kaeion, whose body was slowly breaking apart*
Ayliori: Zenjiro!
Zenjiro: Hmm? *turns to face others* Oh. *smile* Good morning, everyone.
Vyce: Looks like you gave Kaeion what was coming to him…
*Kyuzo walks up to Kaeion and looks down at him*
Kaeion: …
Kyuzo: …Oh, how the mighty have fallen… *kneels down and grabs Kaeion’s collar* So, how’s it feel to be on the receiving end of the ‘ray of death’, Kaeion?
Kaeion: …Al…the…na…
Kyuzo: Tch! One-track mind right to the very end… Now, bring Haruhi back, you bastard!
Kaeion: …Al…the…na…
Kyuzo: *clenches fist* Dammit, quit screwing with me!!
*Kyuzo swings his fist at Kaeion’s face, but at the very last second, Kaeion gates out and Kyuzo’s fist connects with the air*
Kyuzo: What!? NO!!! Get back here, you son of a bitch!!
Neon: He got away again!?
Kyuzo: *pounds stone ground* Dammit! Dammit, dammit, DAMMIT ALL TO HELL!!!
Ayliori: …Kyu-chan…
*meanwhile, in the Serpent of Lore, a small hand-sized ball of black fire is seen shattering one of the many monitors on the wall*
Haseo: GODDAMMIT!!![/size] How does he keep slipping away!?
Atoli: H-Haseo!!
Ovan: Haseo, settle down!
Haseo: GO TO HELL, OVAN! You mean to tell me you’re not the least bit annoyed by this endless cycle!?
Ovan: Of course I am! But you’re letting your emotions get the better of you!
Haseo: Grrrr… *sigh* …This is too much… *gates out*
Sakubo: Haseo…
Kuhn: I’m sure he’s just tired. Hell, we all are. *bows to others* I think I’ll excuse myself now. *gates out*
Atoli: Yeah…and I need to head back to Moon Tree, so…see you guys later. *gates out*
Endrance: …At any rate, thank you for your help, Yata.
Yata: Think nothing of it.
Pi: …Ovan.
Ovan: Hmm?
Pi: I was looking back at the footage of the battle’s end up until Kaeion’s escape. The data signature his body gave off when he gated out… It was unknown.
Ovan: You mean…?
Pi: Yes… Someone else gated him out from another point in The World…
Ovan: …
*a short time later, in front of the @home entrance door, Kyuzo is seen talking with Samekh*
Kyuzo: So… When were you planning on telling me?
Samekh: I apologize. It was important that you were kept in the dark about who I really was. It was the only way for me to move about The World unnoticed. Now that all but one of the .hack//Arms have been secured, there’s no need for me to hide any longer. …But…
Kyuzo: …You’re leaving the guild to go join Haseo and the others.
Samekh: Yes. *takes out Samurai 7 Guest Key* …You’ll probably be wanting this back.
Kyuzo: …Keep it.
Samekh: *smirk*
Kyuzo: *rubs the back of his head* Whew… Now I’ve gotta break the news to everyone… And just when we finally got 7 members…
Samekh: Hehehe… Don’t worry. You’ll find a new member soon enough. I’m certain of it.
Kyuzo: … *extends hand to Samekh*
Samekh: … *shakes Kyuzo’s hand* It’s been a true pleasure working with you, Mr. Kyuzo.
Kyuzo: Take it easy, ‘Sammy’… Or should I say ‘Yata’? Heh.
Samekh: … *gates out*
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
*Piros VIII and Natsuki are heard singing “Dull, Swift Doberman”*
Shady Grunty: *snaps fingers* This song got a cool beat!
Jack/Claire: *covering ears* MAKE IT STOP!!!!!
*moments later, Kyuzo walks in, and Piros and Natsuki stop singing*
Piros/Natsuki: Hey, boss!
Kyuzo: …Hey…
Claire: Hmm? You okay, Kyuzo? You seem down about something.
Jack: …And where’s Samekh? We haven’t seen him in hours.
Kyuzo: …Samekh had to…leave the Samurai 7.
All: …
*meanwhile, in a dungeon-type area, Kaeion is seen limping through a corridor while using the walls to support him; as he walked, his body was slowly breaking apart; eventually his entire left arm breaks off*
Kaeion: This…will be the end of me…unless I find a way…to restore my data… Huh?
*in the distance, Kaeion sees a trio of players approaching*
Girl PC: Hahaha!
Boy PC1: You were totally cool back there, Kurio!
Boy PC2 (Kurio): Hehehe… It was no big deal. I just--
Girl PC: Aah! *points to Kaeion* What is that!?
*the group notices Kaeion and his slowly disintegrating body*
Kurio: C’mon, guys, that guy needs help!
Boy PC: Right behind you!
Kurio: *walks up to Kaeion* Hey, man, you alright?
Kaeion: … *looks up at Kurio*
Kurio: …U-Uh…
Kaeion: … *evil smirk* …You’ll do nicely.
*just then, Kaeion tightly clenches Kurio’s neck and lifts him above the ground*
Kurio: *choking*
Boy PC: K-Kurio!
Girl PC: *draws grimoire* Let go of him!
Kaeion: *glares at other two PCs* …Begone…!!
*with only his piercing gaze, Kaeion sends the players flying across the dungeon corridor until they were out of sight*
Kurio: Let…go of…me…!!!
*Kaeion’s bracelet appears around the wrist of the hand he was holding Kurio up with*
Kurio: *gasp* W-What are you…?!?
Kaeion: …Give me your data…
*in an explosion of data, Kaeion absorbs the PC Kurio’s data, fully restoring his own data and altering his appearance; he slightly resembled Kurio but his hair was white with several black strands*
Kaeion: *analyzing own body* …This player…
*Kaeion then draws Kurio’s PC weapon: a Flick Reaper scythe*
Kaeion: …Hehehe… Hahahahahaha!!!
~ Next Time on Infected! ~
Endrance: …So Haseo was right… Aura truly has returned…
~*~*~*~
Hayate: Whoa… Someone had a big makeover…
Kaeion: Have your laugh…because when this is over, there won’t be enough of you to even make a decent knock-knock joke…!
~*~*~*~
Yata: *gasp* …No… It can’t be… It’s not possible…
~*~*~*~
Kaeion: I am…THE GOD OF THE WORLD!!!
~*~*~*~
Gwen: One second, we’re totally schooling Kaeion, and the next, he busts out some crazy move that makes him 50 feet tall!!!
Pi: I’m afraid we have a much bigger dilemma…
Hayate: What’s that?
Haseo: …AIDA.
41st Phase: Return to Ruin![/color]
*…Raven @home, Serpent of Lore…*
*the Epitaph Users and Epitaph Knights look on at all eight Factor Users*
Haseo: …
Kyuzo: …
Atoli: …
Ayliori: …
Kuhn: …
Neon: …
Sakubo: …
Hayate: …
Endrance: …
Vyce: …
Pi: …
Gwen: …
Ovan: …
Ren: …
Zenjiro: …
Kyuzo: …Geez, you could cut the tension in here with a freakin’ knife…
Gwen: Yeah. What’s with the silent treatment?
Endrance: We apologize.
Sakubo: It’s weird, isn’t it? I mean, all 8 Factor Users have come together for the first time, and yet we’re not celebrating.
Haseo: This should indeed be the time to celebrate, shouldn’t it…? And yet, the circumstances through which we’ve come to this point don’t set the mood for it…
Sakubo: …I guess you’re right.
Pi: …
Zenjiro: …Is there a reason you’re staring at me, miss?
Pi: Hehehe… Forgive me. You just remind me of someone I used to know. *turns to Kuhn* Besides from the skin color, he’s practically Yata’s spitting image, don’t you think?
Kuhn: Actually, I was thinking that too. Hehehe.
Ovan: …So… Zenjiro, was it?
Zenjiro: Yes.
Ovan: We’d like to discuss with you the events that transpired earlier today…
Zenjiro: …
*a couple hours earlier…*
Kaeion: Zenjiro, eh? Tch! And what gives you the right to interfere!?
Zenjiro: Heh. No right whatsoever. But…it looked to me like you were about to cut the lives of these players short. And that… *straightens glasses* …I couldn’t let happen.
Kaeion: You ballsy little… *readies Spin Natsume* You’re gonna wish you had stayed away!
*as Kaeion and Zenjiro meet in a clash of weapons, the members of Glaive LeGable watch*
Hayate: Where the heck did this guy come from…?
Neon: No clue… But what I wanna know is how he’s able to fight Kaeion on equal footing…
Kaeion: Chaotic Strike!!!
*Kaeion carries Zenjiro into the air and, as Zenjiro defends with his fans, swings his dual swords several times at blinding speed*
Zenjiro: Now it’s my turn! Rengeki: Issei Ougi!
*as he hovered in midair, Zenjiro flings his fans forward; the two fans merge into one larger fan that spins like a buzzsaw; the spinning fan connects with Kaeion’s body, slicing into his torso*
Kaeion: GAAAAH!!!!
*Kaeion returns to the ground and stands on one knee; mass amounts of blood was pouring from his stomach; Zenjiro returns to the ground as well and his fans return to his hands*
Zenjiro: *straightens glasses* …Heh. *looks at Kaeion* Had enough yet? Or would you rather I not hold back anymore?
Kaeion: Grrrr… You wretch! How dare you condescend me!
*Kaeion’s body suddenly gives off a yellow Epitaph glow*
Kaeion: I’ll send you straight to the netherworld!
Zenjiro: Hmm… It would seem that holding back is no longer an option here…
*Zenjiro concentrates his energies and his body gives off a yellow Epitaph glow as well*
All: *gasp*
Hayate: The Factor User of Fidchell?!?
Neon: I thought Kaeion destroyed him!!
Kaeion: Hehehe… Hahahaha! The Fidchell Factor within me did feel a tad incomplete after a short while! And yet here stands the remainder of Fidchell’s data right before me! There’s just no end to my good fortune, is there!?
Zenjiro: There’s no such thing as never-ending good luck… Now then… *raises fans* …I’ll be taking the Fidchell Factor back now, if you please. I would prefer you relinquish it to me without a struggle.
Kaeion: Hmph! *puts Spin Natsume away and draws broadsword* You clearly don’t know me that well! *charges forward* Allow me to educate you!!!
*Kaeion leaps into the air and plummets down onto Zenjiro with his broadsword; however, Kaeion’s sword would connects with Zenjiro’s afterimage, as he had used Fidchell’s power of Teleportation to dodge Kaeion’s attack*
Kaeion: What the…!?
*Zenjiro reappears in the air above Kaeion, pointing the palm of his hand down at him*
Kaeion: *looks up* What?!?
Zenjiro: Fidchell Factor ~ Will of the Gods!!!
*a small orb fires swiftly forward from Zenjiro’s hand and creates a spherical cage around Kaeion*
Kaeion: W-What is this!?
Zenjiro: *forms ninja-like seal with hands* KATSU!!!
*from within the spherical cage, a condensed explosion is triggered; the cage vanishes and Kaeion falls onto the ground*
Kaeion: N-No…!! I…cannot… WILL not…be defeated…!!
Usa-chan: Wow… Look at Mr. Prophet go… He’s totally owning Kaeion…
Orion: Perhaps it’s because the part of Fidchell inside Kaeion is reacting negatively to the part of Fidchell inside that Dance Macabre…
Zenjiro: …Well?
Kaeion: *looks up at Zenjiro* Grrrr… Damn you to hell… *gates out*
Zenjiro: …[/i]
Ovan: …So here’s my first question: How did you come to realize you were the Factor User of Fidchell, the Prophet?
Zenjiro: I was…informed.
Endrance: By whom?
Zenjiro: I…I’m sorry. I’m under vow not to divulge that information.
Ovan: …
Kuhn: So who was it that taught you how to utilize the Fidchell Factor?
Zenjiro: The same person who told me I was Fidchell’s Factor User to begin with, of course.
Pi: Explain to us how and when this person approached you.
Zenjiro: Let’s see… It was exactly one week ago…
*one week earlier, Zenjiro is seen purchasing something from the Medic Guild’s mini-shop in Mac Anu’s Central District*
Zenjiro: I’ll take this, please. *hands GP to shop owner*
Medic Guild Shop Clerk: Pleasure doing business with you!
*having purchased the item he’d been searching for, Zenjiro turns around and prepares to head for the dome…*
Zenjiro: …Hmm?
*…when he sees Samekh standing a few feet away from him*
Samekh: … *smile* Hello there.
Zenjiro: …Hello. Can I help you in some way?
Samekh: As a matter of fact, you can…
Zenjiro: …
*a short time later, Samekh is seen talking to Zenjiro at the Great Temple of Caerleon Medb*
Zenjiro: …Factor User?
Samekh: Yes. You are one of eight individuals who possess the power to change the course of this world. The name of this power you hold…is “Fidchell”. But your power is only a quarter of its maximum potential, 40% at best. The rest of your power lies in the hands of a Wandering AI who seeks to use it for evil purposes. If left unchecked, this entire world would come crashing down upon us.
Zenjiro: …My, my… And up until this point, I thought I had this game all figured out. Hehehe.
Samekh: Hehe… Likewise. You know, Zenjiro, we’re not so different, you and I. Truth be told, I at one time wielded the power that you now possess. …You’re my successor, so to speak. So I offer to you a proposal. I will teach you how to control this power – the power of Fidchell. And all I ask in return is this: …Confront this Wandering AI. Make Fidchell whole again. And don’t let this world come to an end.
Zenjiro: …Mr. Samekh…
Samekh: *turns away from Zenjiro* …This world is far too valuable to just let crumble. …Can you do that for me, Zenjiro?
Zenjiro: …
Zenjiro: …So during the days that followed, that person instructed me on how to use this power. Of course, until it reunites with the portion of Fidchell that Kaeion has, it’s only at 50% of its full strength. On top of that, I’m unable to use my Avatar.
Atoli: I see… That’s too bad…
Zenjiro: *smiles* Please, don’t feel sorry for me. If anything, I’m honored to be such a focal element in something this vast.
Hayate: So until Kaeion shows up again, we’re at another dead end?
Haseo: …It would appear so…
Ayliori: Aw, man… Nothing’s ever easy, is it?
Pi: Don’t be discouraged. All eight Factor Users have been gathered together at last. This is a great step forward in our goals.
Gwen: *shrugs shoulders* If you say so…
Ovan: You’re all dismissed for now. Zenjiro, I hope we can count on your support in the near future.
Zenjiro: Of course. After all, I still have to keep up my end of the bargain with…that man. *bows* If you’ll excuse me then… *turns around and walks out*
Ovan: …Pi.
Pi: Yes?
Ovan: That player that you’d been tracking for me… Where is he now?
Pi: *typing on console keyboard* …He’s at--
Ovan: Wait.
Pi: Hmm?
Ovan: … *smirk* On second thought…I think I know just where to find him. *gates out*
Atoli: Ovan? …Where’s he going?
Pi: …To meet with an old friend.
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Battlefield ~ Backtop City Megin Fi*
*Samekh is seen looking up at the moon shining down on the Lost Ground*
Samekh: …
*moments later, the sound of Megin Fi’s double-door entrance opening is heard*
Samekh: … *smiles*
*Ovan is seen approaching Samekh from behind*
Ovan: …
Samekh: The all-powerful Ovan of the Blue Lightning… To what do I owe the pleasure of this unexpected visit?
Ovan: … *straightens glasses* …I met your little protégé earlier today.
Samekh: Protégé? *smirk* I have no idea what you mean.
Ovan: No…? Hehehe…
*Ovan walks up and gazes at the moon alongside Samekh*
Ovan: …Then how is it I knew that you would come to this place? The place where everything began?
Samekh: …Maybe I just happen to like this particular Lost Ground.
Ovan: …Perhaps.
Samekh: …So…
Ovan: Hmm?
Samekh: Quite a piece of work, isn’t he?
Ovan: Who?
Samekh: Zenjiro, of course.
Ovan: … *smirk*
Samekh: So, all eight Factor Users have finally come together… Quite an accomplishment, isn’t it?
Ovan: …So I was right. It is you after all…Yata.
Samekh: Hehehe… Come now, Ovan. You knew it was me all along. I must be losing my touch.
Ovan: …It’s been a while, Takumi.
Samekh: Likewise, Alexander.
~ Cultural City of Dol Dona; August 6, 2037 ~
*Kyuzo is seen talking to a pair of girls in Dol Dona*
Kyuzo: So, what do you say, ladies? A night on the town sounds good, don’t it?
Girl PC1: Hehehe… I think I’ll pass.
Girl PC2: Yeah, me too.
Kyuzo: Awww… You sure you wanna turn all this down?
Both Girl PCs: …We’re sure…
: …Mr. Kyuzo.Kyuzo: Huh? *turns around to see Zenjiro* …Oh. It’s just you. *turns back to the girls* Okay, ladies! Last chance! You don’t know what you’re passing up here!
Girl PCs: Ugh…
Zenjiro: *approaches the girls* I apologize deeply for my friend’s behavior. You may go, ladies. I’ll be sure to discipline Kyuzo accordingly.
Girl PC2: Uh… S-Sure. Thanks.
*with that, the girls begin to walk away*
Girl PC1: …That Macabre was kinda cute, wasn’t he?
Girl PC2: Hehehe, yeah… And so polite too…
Kyuzo: … *looks at Zenjiro* Dude, you make a terrible wingman.
Zenjiro: I wasn’t trying to be a wingman, Mr. Kyuzo. Do you really think harassing young girls is appropriate behavior for a Factor User?
Kyuzo: And what makes you so sure about how a Factor User’s supposed to act!? You’ve only been one for a day!
Zenjiro: …Week.
Kyuzo: Like it matters! Look, I wanna be perfectly clear on this: Just ‘cuz you’re a Factor User, that doesn’t give you the right to muscle in on MY territory! From now on, you’d better keep your distance! Get me!?
Zenjiro: …I’ll be sure to keep that in mind… *BEEP, BEEP!* Hmm? *reads short mail* …Kaeion! He’s emerged at Briona Gwydion!
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Dragonbein ~ Briona Gwydion the Dragonbein Range*
*Kaeion is seen standing on top of the Tri-Edge sign with his arms spread to his sides and his eyes closed*
Kaeion: “…Never to return, the shadowed one, who quests for the Twilight Dragon…”
*his body gives off a faint purple aura*
Kaeion: Ahhh… Althena, your warmth is intoxicating…
*just then, the 8 Factor Users approach Kaeion from behind*
Kaeion: *groan, turns to face Factor Users* You are all becoming excruciatingly annoying…
Gwen: *draws lance* The feeling’s mutual, ya bastard…
*as the Factor Users prepare to do battle with Kaeion, the Epitaph Users watch from the Serpent of Lore*
Atoli: …Good luck, everyone…
Haseo: Is there any way to keep Kaeion from gating out so that Zenjiro could extract the Fidchell Factor from him?
Pi: I’m afraid not. I could create a powerful battle fence with such effects, but Kaeion’s data is far too advanced for the fence to keep restrained.
Endrance: His data’s melded with the Fidchell Factor, right? So can’t you configure the fence to box in Fidchell’s data alone?
Pi: That could work, but I’d need a more powerful sample of Fidchell’s data than the one Zenjiro provides.
: …Perhaps I can help.Sakubo: Hmm? *turns around* … *gasp* Y-Yata!
Pi: *gasp*
*Yata is seen standing next to Ovan using his original Epitaph User PC*
Yata: Heh. It’s been a while.
Pi: …M-Master Yata…
*meanwhile…*
Vyce: Dust Bullet!
*Vyce fires at Kaeion a series of bullets from a Steam Gunner bayonet; Kaeion spins his left Spin Natsume at supersonic speed to fend off the bullets; meanwhile, Hayate and Kyuzo attack from the air*
Hayate/Kyuzo: Disaster Sword!
*as soon as Vyce’s bullets stop firing, Kaeion points his dual swords up to defend against Hayate and Kyuzo’s Brandier double-team; Kaeion then interlocks his blades with their blades and spins around, causing Hayate and Kyuzo to fly towards opposite ends of the Lost Ground*
Kaeion: Hmph!
*meanwhile, Gwen and Zenjiro are seen across the Gwydion bridge standing side-by-side*
Zenjiro: Ready?
Gwen: You bet!
*the duo dashes forward towards Kaeion*
Kaeion: Hmm?
Zenjiro: Rengeki: Zetsu!!!
*Zenjiro points his fans side-by-side, forming a circle; the fans then give off a powerful glow; from out of the fans emerges a dragon composed entirely of magic*
Zenjiro: Now!
Gwen: Gotcha!
*Gwen leaps into the air and rides on top of the dragon as it flies towards Kaeion*
Kaeion: Tch!
*Kaeion swiftly substitutes his dual swords for his broadsword and cleaves the energy dragon in half; Gwen leaps off of the dragon at the last second and lands on the ground behind Kaeion*
Gwen: Gotcha this time! Air Raid!!!
*Gwen thrusts her lance at Kaeion’s back…*
Kaeion: Don’t think so!
*…but her attack is intercepted by one of Kaeion’s Spin Natsume*
Gwen: What the?!?
Neon: A broadsword in the left hand, and a dual sword in the right!? No way!!!
Kaeion: Hehehe!
Neon: Grrrr…[/color] Magus Factor ~ Unforgiving Bud![/i]
*Neon releases from his hand 10 small seeds that shoot forth at Kaeion*
Kaeion: Seeds!? You must be joking!
*Gwen leaps out of the way for the 10 seeds to connect with Kaeion’s broadsword, triggering a rapid series of explosions; the Lost Ground is coated by a layer of smoke*
Kaeion: *coughing* Damn you… I can’t see a thing through this blasted smoke…!
*just then, Kaeion would feel his feet becoming frigid cold*
Kaeion: W-What the hell!?
*behind Kaeion, Kyuzo is seen holding his hand out towards the AI*
Kyuzo: Skeith Factor ~ Judgment![/i]
*the ice covering Kaeion’s feet begins to slowly rise up his legs and up to his waist*
Kaeion: Oh, no, you don’t!
*Kaeion concentrates his energies and coats his body in blue fire, instantly melting the ice; he then spins around to strike Kyuzo with his broadsword*
Kyuzo: Gah!
Kaeion: Hmph!
: Innis Factor ~ Thunder Trance![/i][/color]: Tarvos Factor ~ Stake of Death![/i][/color]: Corbenik Factor ~ Clinch Needle![/i][/color]*Kaeion is suddenly assaulted by a volley of pink spikes from the left side, black needles from the right side, and a series of lightning spheres from above*
Kaeion: …Tch…
*another massive explosion dissipates the wind and Kaeion is seen standing with his head facing down*
Ayliori: Did we get him…?
*just then, Kaeion’s body glows with yellow Epitaph symbols*
Hayate: That’s a negative!
Kaeion: ……Fidchell Factor[/i][/b]……Quadra Halo[/i][/color]……
*four golden discs materialize around Kaeion’s body*
Kaeion: No more… This is where it all ends… IT ALL ENDS RIGHT NOW!!!
*the four discs start to vibrate and rotate around Kaeion’s body at high speed; moments later, the discs shoot forth powerful laser blasts that cover the entire Lost Ground; everyone struck by these blasts would be blown away*
All: AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!![/i][/size]
*the Epitaph Users at the Lost Ground would momentarily lose their signal because of this attack*
Haseo: Get the feed back!!!
Pi: I’m trying!!!
Haseo: Yata, is it ready yet!?
Yata: I need a little more time 30 seconds maybe, one minute tops.
Haseo: *bits thumb* (We can’t afford to mess this up…!) Pi, open a transmission channel to Zenjiro’s PC body!
Pi: Right!
*at Briona Gwydion, the smoke dies down and Kaeion is seen catching his breath; out of the eight Factor Users, only Zenjiro was left standing, but just barely*
Zenjiro: *panting* …Hmm? Haseo? …Yes. I understand.
Kaeion: You pests… Don’t you ever give up?
Zenjiro: *stands up straight and straightens glasses* Humans are the most resilient creatures on the planet Earth, Kaeion. We never say die.
Kaeion: Tch! *readies broadsword* Then allow me to say it for you!!! *dashes forward* DIE!!!!!
*Zenjiro readies his fans and prepares to do battle once more; just then, a giant dome appears the Lost Ground, locking Kaeion and Zenjiro inside*
Kaeion: *stops running* What!? What trickery is this!?
Zenjiro: (There it is! Now’s my chance!)
*with Kaeion distracted, Zenjiro sprints forward and…*
Zenjiro: YAAAAHHHH!!!![/i]
*…thrusts his hand into Kaeion’s chest*
Kaeion: *deep gasp* W-What…!? What are you…!?
Zenjiro: *smirk* …You have something that belongs to me…
Kaeion: I… I c-can’t gate out…!! W-What’s going on…!?
*Zenjiro pulls a golden sphere of energy out of Kaeion’s body and immediately melds it with the Fidchell Factor within him*
Zenjiro: Got it!
Kaeion: H-How!? This is…impossible…!!!
*meanwhile…*
Pi: …It worked!! The Fidchell Factor’s at 100% now!!
Atoli: HE DID IT!!!
Haseo: *sigh* (Thank God…) …Alright, Zenjiro. Finish the job.
Zenjiro: … *clenches fists* …As you wish.
Kaeion: No… Althena…
*from outside the dome, the remaining 7 Factor Users hear Kaeion’s scream of pain*
Gwen: Whoa… I’d hate to be in Kaeion’s shoes right now…
Hayate: That’s for sure…
*as the dome disappears, Zenjiro is seen standing above Kaeion, whose body was slowly breaking apart*
Ayliori: Zenjiro!
Zenjiro: Hmm? *turns to face others* Oh. *smile* Good morning, everyone.
Vyce: Looks like you gave Kaeion what was coming to him…
*Kyuzo walks up to Kaeion and looks down at him*
Kaeion: …
Kyuzo: …Oh, how the mighty have fallen… *kneels down and grabs Kaeion’s collar* So, how’s it feel to be on the receiving end of the ‘ray of death’, Kaeion?
Kaeion: …Al…the…na…
Kyuzo: Tch! One-track mind right to the very end… Now, bring Haruhi back, you bastard!
Kaeion: …Al…the…na…
Kyuzo: *clenches fist* Dammit, quit screwing with me!!
*Kyuzo swings his fist at Kaeion’s face, but at the very last second, Kaeion gates out and Kyuzo’s fist connects with the air*
Kyuzo: What!? NO!!! Get back here, you son of a bitch!!
Neon: He got away again!?
Kyuzo: *pounds stone ground* Dammit! Dammit, dammit, DAMMIT ALL TO HELL!!!
Ayliori: …Kyu-chan…
*meanwhile, in the Serpent of Lore, a small hand-sized ball of black fire is seen shattering one of the many monitors on the wall*
Haseo: GODDAMMIT!!![/size] How does he keep slipping away!?
Atoli: H-Haseo!!
Ovan: Haseo, settle down!
Haseo: GO TO HELL, OVAN! You mean to tell me you’re not the least bit annoyed by this endless cycle!?
Ovan: Of course I am! But you’re letting your emotions get the better of you!
Haseo: Grrrr… *sigh* …This is too much… *gates out*
Sakubo: Haseo…
Kuhn: I’m sure he’s just tired. Hell, we all are. *bows to others* I think I’ll excuse myself now. *gates out*
Atoli: Yeah…and I need to head back to Moon Tree, so…see you guys later. *gates out*
Endrance: …At any rate, thank you for your help, Yata.
Yata: Think nothing of it.
Pi: …Ovan.
Ovan: Hmm?
Pi: I was looking back at the footage of the battle’s end up until Kaeion’s escape. The data signature his body gave off when he gated out… It was unknown.
Ovan: You mean…?
Pi: Yes… Someone else gated him out from another point in The World…
Ovan: …
*a short time later, in front of the @home entrance door, Kyuzo is seen talking with Samekh*
Kyuzo: So… When were you planning on telling me?
Samekh: I apologize. It was important that you were kept in the dark about who I really was. It was the only way for me to move about The World unnoticed. Now that all but one of the .hack//Arms have been secured, there’s no need for me to hide any longer. …But…
Kyuzo: …You’re leaving the guild to go join Haseo and the others.
Samekh: Yes. *takes out Samurai 7 Guest Key* …You’ll probably be wanting this back.
Kyuzo: …Keep it.
Samekh: *smirk*
Kyuzo: *rubs the back of his head* Whew… Now I’ve gotta break the news to everyone… And just when we finally got 7 members…
Samekh: Hehehe… Don’t worry. You’ll find a new member soon enough. I’m certain of it.
Kyuzo: … *extends hand to Samekh*
Samekh: … *shakes Kyuzo’s hand* It’s been a true pleasure working with you, Mr. Kyuzo.
Kyuzo: Take it easy, ‘Sammy’… Or should I say ‘Yata’? Heh.
Samekh: … *gates out*
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
*Piros VIII and Natsuki are heard singing “Dull, Swift Doberman”*
Shady Grunty: *snaps fingers* This song got a cool beat!
Jack/Claire: *covering ears* MAKE IT STOP!!!!!
*moments later, Kyuzo walks in, and Piros and Natsuki stop singing*
Piros/Natsuki: Hey, boss!
Kyuzo: …Hey…
Claire: Hmm? You okay, Kyuzo? You seem down about something.
Jack: …And where’s Samekh? We haven’t seen him in hours.
Kyuzo: …Samekh had to…leave the Samurai 7.
All: …
*meanwhile, in a dungeon-type area, Kaeion is seen limping through a corridor while using the walls to support him; as he walked, his body was slowly breaking apart; eventually his entire left arm breaks off*
Kaeion: This…will be the end of me…unless I find a way…to restore my data… Huh?
*in the distance, Kaeion sees a trio of players approaching*
Girl PC: Hahaha!
Boy PC1: You were totally cool back there, Kurio!
Boy PC2 (Kurio): Hehehe… It was no big deal. I just--
Girl PC: Aah! *points to Kaeion* What is that!?
*the group notices Kaeion and his slowly disintegrating body*
Kurio: C’mon, guys, that guy needs help!
Boy PC: Right behind you!
Kurio: *walks up to Kaeion* Hey, man, you alright?
Kaeion: … *looks up at Kurio*
Kurio: …U-Uh…
Kaeion: … *evil smirk* …You’ll do nicely.
*just then, Kaeion tightly clenches Kurio’s neck and lifts him above the ground*
Kurio: *choking*
Boy PC: K-Kurio!
Girl PC: *draws grimoire* Let go of him!
Kaeion: *glares at other two PCs* …Begone…!!
*with only his piercing gaze, Kaeion sends the players flying across the dungeon corridor until they were out of sight*
Kurio: Let…go of…me…!!!
*Kaeion’s bracelet appears around the wrist of the hand he was holding Kurio up with*
Kurio: *gasp* W-What are you…?!?
Kaeion: …Give me your data…
*in an explosion of data, Kaeion absorbs the PC Kurio’s data, fully restoring his own data and altering his appearance; he slightly resembled Kurio but his hair was white with several black strands*
Kaeion: *analyzing own body* …This player…
*Kaeion then draws Kurio’s PC weapon: a Flick Reaper scythe*
Kaeion: …Hehehe… Hahahahahaha!!!
~ Next Time on Infected! ~
Endrance: …So Haseo was right… Aura truly has returned…
~*~*~*~
Hayate: Whoa… Someone had a big makeover…
Kaeion: Have your laugh…because when this is over, there won’t be enough of you to even make a decent knock-knock joke…!
~*~*~*~
Yata: *gasp* …No… It can’t be… It’s not possible…
~*~*~*~
Kaeion: I am…THE GOD OF THE WORLD!!!
~*~*~*~
Gwen: One second, we’re totally schooling Kaeion, and the next, he busts out some crazy move that makes him 50 feet tall!!!
Pi: I’m afraid we have a much bigger dilemma…
Hayate: What’s that?
Haseo: …AIDA.
41st Phase: Return to Ruin![/color]
