Post by Hayate on May 17, 2008 0:08:33 GMT -5
~ Cultural City of Dol Dona; August 10, 2037 ~
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Sacrament ~ Great Temple of Caerleon Medb*
Neon: “Lost…Weapons”?
Ovan: Yes. At first, they were remnants of the first Epitaph Users whose data was lost due to the failure of CC Corp.’s R.A. Plan. But it would seem that these Lost Weapons were manmade… *smirk* …Or should I say…“goddess-made”.
Ayliori: …Aura…
Endrance: Precisely. When the other Epitaph Users and I first took hold of our respective Lost Weapons 20 years ago, our powers as Epitaph Users skyrocketed. With any luck, these Lost Weapons will do the same for you Factor Users.
Pi: There’s one Lost Weapon for each Factor Users. Skeith, Innis, Magus, Fidchell…
Atoli: …Corbenik, Tarvos, Macha, and…oh…
*Hayate stands before the fifth platform, where no Lost Weapon was present*
Hayate: …There’s one missing…
Sakubo: Ovan, why is there no Lost Weapon for Gorre?
Ovan: …
Aura: …Please…when you see Gorre…could you tell him…I’m sorry?
Ovan: …Hmm… The Factor Users were all chosen by the Phases of Morganna because they share a deep-rooted connection with their respective factors…but…Hayate had acquired his Morganna Factor through…different means… These Lost Weapons were created from bits of data emanating from the Factor Users. Perhaps it’s because the Gorre Factor rooted into Hayate’s data is more complex than the other factors…that a Lost Weapon couldn’t be generated…
Hayate: …So there’s…no Lost Weapon for me?
All: …
Hayate: … *rubs back of head* …Well, that sucks… Hehehe…
Neon: Hayate…
Hayate: H-Hey! Don’t get so depressed. The last thing I want is for people to feel sorry for me. Besides… *draws Vorpal Blade* …my sister will give me all the strength I need.
Kuhn: Heh. I really admire that optimism of yours, Hayate.
Hayate: Hahaha…
Kyuzo: Okay! Down to business! How the heck do we get these “Lost Weapons” out?
Yata: Pi. If you please.
Pi: At once. *draws Blade Mia*
Gwen: H-Hey!!! Isn’t that the…!?
Ren: The last .hack//Arm!
Zenjiro: …How long have you had that for?
Pi: *shrug shoulders* A couple of weeks, why?
Neon: YOU MEAN TO TELL ME WE TREKKED 100 FLOORS OF VICIOUS MONSTERS AND BOOBY TRAPS FOR NOTHING?!?!?
Yata: It was important for the .hack//Arms to stay out of Kaeion’s hands.
Kyuzo: Oh, sure… Mask your reasons so that you’d look like the good guy… Typical system admins…
Ovan: *ahem* Moving on. Pi?
Pi: Yes.
*Pi approaches the Lost Weapons one-by-one, waiting for the Blade Mia in her hand to react; she approaches Skeith’s Lost Weapon, but nothing happens*
Kyuzo: …
*she then approaches Innis’ Lost Weapon, but still nothing happens*
Ayliori: …
*she then approaches Magus’ Lost Weapon, but still nothing happens*
Neon: …
*she then approaches Fidchell’s Lost Weapon, but still nothing happens*
Zenjiro: …
*she then approaches Macha’s Lost Weapon; the .hack//Arm suddenly gives off a warm violet glow*
Vyce: *gasp*
Pi: As you can see, each .hack//Arm reacts to a specific Lost Weapon.
Kuhn: 20 years ago, we had to unlock the power of the Lost Weapons by using a unique set of items called “Adler’s Keys”. Looks like this time around, the .hack//Arms are the Adler’s Keys themselves.
Neon: …Wait… A-Are you saying…?
Yata: Yes. …In order for the Lost Weapons to be unsealed…the .hack//Arms must be sacrificed.
All: *gasp*
Kyuzo: SAY WHAT?!? SACRIFICED?!?
Ovan: Members of Glaive LeGable and the Samurai 7 are to return to their @homes and bring the .hack//Arms here immediately.
Hayate: …I wonder how Orion’s gonna react to this news…
*Hayate and Neon walk towards the Chaos Gate, but are suddenly blocked off by Kyuzo*
Hayate/Neon: *gasp*
Kyuzo: You two aren’t going anywhere!!!
Neon: Kyuzo! What the hell are you doing!?
Kyuzo: *draws blade sword* I won’t give up the .hack//Arms!!! I’ve come too far for all my plans to just go up in smoke like this!!!
Hayate: Are you out of your mind?!? The World’s in serious danger, and STILL you’re only thinking about yourself?!?
Ayliori: …Kyu-chan…
Kyuzo: Forget it! You can’t change my mind! You want the .hack//Arms, you’ll have to go…through…m-me… *drops blade sword and falls over*
Gwen: H-Huh? What just…?
Haseo: Good job, Ren.
Ren: *holding microphone* No problem.
*with Kyuzo asleep, Hayate and Neon walk past him and warp to Dol Dona*
Kuhn: But if Kyuzo’s incapacitated, who’s gonna deliver the .hack//Arms from Samurai 7?
Yata: … *looks down at Samurai 7 Guest Key* …I will.
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
Orion: …
Izumi: …
Usa-chan: …
Miharu: …
Hayate: …And…that’s the situation, Orion.
Neon: It’s the only way to defeat Kaeion. The only way to save The World.
Usa-chan: But…sacrificing the .hack//Arms!? After all that hard work!?
Izumi: …
Miharu: *crosses arms* All this time spent searching for them… It’s like it’s all going to waste…
Hayate: It’s not going to waste! The .hack//Arms will fuel the power of the Lost Weapons and, with them, The World will be saved!
Orion: …
Neon: …Orion…we can only imagine how you must feel right now, but--
Orion: Enough.
Neon: *gasp*
*Orion suddenly walks into the rear chamber of the @home…*
All: …
*…and comes back out with the Blade Balmung, Blade Marlo, Blade Orca, Broad BlackRose, Lance Gardenia, Magic Tsukasa, Scythe Ryoko, Spin Moonstone, and Spin Sora*
Izumi: O-Orion! Then…?
Orion: …I swore…that I would keep the .hack//Arms out of the wrong hands… But I can see now that there’s much more at stake than just the lives of a handful of players… *walks up to Hayate and Neon* If sacrificing the .hack//Arms will be for the good of The World…then I’ll gladly lend a helping hand.
Hayate: …Orion… *takes .hack//Arms* Thank you!
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
*Jack, Claire, Piros VIII, and Natsuki are seen entering the @home shortly after completing a quest*
Piros VIII: *points fist to the sky* Another mission successfully completed!
Natsuki: *points fist to the sky* Yeah!
Claire: *collapses onto floor* My GOD, that took forever…!
Jack: *collapses onto floor* No más… No más…
Natsuki: … *looks around* …You know…this guild’s kinda quiet without Sammy around.
Piros VIII: Indeed.
Jack: *hops to feet* Yeah. Wonder what the old blondie’s up to right now.
: …Someone mention my name?
All: *blink* Hmm?
*the group turns around to see a familiar face standing at the entrance to the @home*
All: …Samekh!
*a short time later, the Epitaph/Factor Users all gather again at Caerleon Medb*
Haseo: Let’s see… Blade Balmung, Blade Marlo, Blade Mia…
Atoli: …Blade Orca, Blade Rachel, Broad BlackRose…
Kuhn: …Broad Sanjuro, Lance Gardenia, Lance Usagimaru…
Yata: …Magic Helba, Magic Mistral, Magic Tsukasa…
Sakubo: …Scythe Piros, Scythe Ryoko, Scythe Subaru…
Endrance: …Spin Kite, Spin Moonstone, Spin Natsume…
Pi: …Spin Sora, Spell Elk…
Ovan: …There’s one missing. Where’s the Spell Wiseman?
: You rang?
*the group turns to see Dekar and Kaga standing near the Chaos Gate*
Haseo: Dekar! But how--
Dekar: --did I know? Come now, Haseo, surely you didn’t think I’d be left out of the festivities.
Kaga: *draws Spell Wiseman* …This is what you need, right?
Hayate: Kaga…
Kaga: It’s okay. I think I’ve learned as much about the .hack//Arms as I’m going to learn.
Ovan: …Thank you for bringing him here, Dekar.
Dekar: Think nothing of it.
Kuhn: Well, isn’t this a treat? First all the Factor Users were gathered together – now the .hack//Arms are all gathered together too.
Pi: …You are such a sentimental idiot.
Kuhn: Aw, that hurts, Pi…
*the group takes the next few moments to match up each .hack//Arm with its corresponding Lost Weapon; first, the Blade Balmung, Blade Marlo, and Spin Sora are sacrificed to unseal Kyuzo’s Lost Weapon: a black and red double-necked guitar called the “Death Bringer”*
Kyuzo: Hmm… *plays guitar riff* …Alright, I’ll admit this is kinda awesome.
*next, the Broad BlackRose, Magic Mistral, and Scythe Subaru are sacrificed to unseal Ayliori’s Lost Weapon: a long turquoise Cleric staff called the “Mirage Cross”*
Ayliori: Hahaha! Not bad!
*then, the Blade Orca, Scythe Ryoko, and Spin Kite are sacrificed to unseal Neon’s Lost Weapon: a pair of emerald and gold dual swords called the “Heaven’s Pulse”*
Neon: *swings dual swords* Damn! These things are as light as feathers!
*then, the Broad Sanjuro, Scythe Piros, and Spell Wiseman are sacrificed to unseal Zenjiro’s Lost Weapon: a pair of gold and orange Macabre fans called the “Clairvoyance”*
Zenjiro: Hey… Not too shabby.
*then, the Blade Mia, Magic Tsukasa, and Spell Elk are sacrificed to unseal Vyce’s Lost Weapon: an ornate purple Templar’s catalyst called the “Lord of Roses”*
Vyce: *generates energy scythe* …Nice! No more Templar weapon time limit!
*then, then the Blade Rachel, Lance Gardenia, and Lance Usagimaru are sacrificed to unseal Gwen’s Lost Weapon: a long, double-edged javelin with pink blades called the “Shattered Wing”*
Gwen: *twirls javelin* Let’s see that Kaeion get the better of me now!
*finally, the Magic Helba, Spin Natsume, and Spin Moonstone are sacrificed to unseal Ren’s Lost Weapon: a pair of sapphire dual swords called the “Last Requiem”*
Ren: *looks at dual swords* Hehehe… I can do some REAL damage with these.
*as his friends marvel at their new weapons, Hayate watches from near the Chaos Gate*
Hayate: …
*just then, his sister Sakuya appears next to him in ghost form*
Sakuya: …You feel left out, don’t you?
Hayate: *turns away from Sakuya* …I just want this battle to end. That’s all.
Sakuya: …
Haseo: …Hmm!? …The alarm at Raven’s gone off!
*the Epitaph Users and Factor Users all warp back to the Serpent of Lore, and Yata walks up to the console*
Yata: …It’s Kaeion.
Kuhn: Jeez… Guy must have the best timing in the world.
Yata: He’s at Megin Fi. *turns to face Factor Users* You have your Lost Weapons. Go. End this battle once and for all.
All: YES, SIR!!!
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Battlefield ~ Coite-Bodher Battlefield*
*Kaeion is seen standing inside Megin Fi, his body giving off a violet glow*
Kaeion: … *gasp* …Yes… Yes! It’s finally time! …Hmm?
*the Factor Users all enter to confront him with their Lost Weapons drawn*
Kaeion: So…you’ve all acquired new toys… No matter. *draws scythe* Even if I should lose this battle, it makes no difference! Althena has all the power she needs! All that’s left is to wake her up from her long sleep!
All: OVER OUR DEAD BODIES!!! *charges forward*
Neon/Ren: Whirlwind!!!
*Neon and Ren zoom towards Kaeion, leaving behind them streaks of green and blue; as soon as their dual swords connect with Kaeion’s scythe, a loud clang echoes through the Lost Ground*
Kaeion: !!!
*meanwhile, Kyuzo leaps into the air and positions himself just above Kaeion*
Kyuzo: You ready to rock?!?
Kaeion: *looks up and gasps*
*Kyuzo harshly strums his guitar, causing the air to bend and strike Kaeion with a wave of sound*
Kaeion: Gah…!
*Vyce and Gwen are seen behind Kaeion holding lances*
Vyce: One…!
Gwen: Two…!
Vyce/Gwen: Scarlet Thrust!!!
*the two fires red needles of energy that pierce Kaeion’s back*
Kaeion: Agghhhh!! (So…powerful…) …Huh!?
*looking over to his side, Kaeion notices Hayate pouncing on him with his blades drawn*
Hayate: Forget about me, ugly!?
Kaeion: Tch!
*before Hayate’s blades connect, Kaeion swings his scythe swiftly at the last second, clashing with Hayate’s blades and knocking them out of his hands*
Hayate: *gasp*
*Kaeion follows by grasping Hayate’s head with his left hand…*
Kaeion: How could you forget you?!? Out of all your fellow Factor Users, you’re the most irritating!!!
*…and tosses him clear into a wall*
Hayate: Gah!
Vyce/Gwen: Hayate!
Kaeion: Hmph! …Hmm?
*looking up at the sky, Kaeion notices an accumulation of magic energy; near the entrance of Megin Fi, Ayliori and Zenjiro are seen gathering energy for a powerful two-man spell*
Zenjiro: Ready?
Ayliori: Ready!
Zenjiro: “The burning comet that dwells within my soul pulsates towards the heartbeat of beginning…”
*a dimensional rift opens up in the sky above Kaeion…*
Ayliori: “…The angel’s whispers dance across the galaxy, chasing after my memories…”
*…the rift in the sky gradually opens wider…*
Both: “…We dye the stars in the heavens above a deep shade of red as miracles are formed inside our grasped hands…”
*…then, a great white light emanates from the rift…*
Both: “…We stand before the door to the truth!” STARLIGHT BREAKER!!!
*…just then, a gigantic volley and stars and comets rains from the rift and down towards Kaeion*
Kaeion: …
*from the Epitaph Users’ point of view at the Serpent of Lore, a great explosion covers the Lost Ground*
Kuhn: YEAH!!! That’s the way!
Sakubo: Boy, I’d sure hate to be in Kaeion’s shoes right now.
Atoli: Hehe. That’s for sure.
*as the smoke clouding Megin Fi clears, Kaeion is seen standing at the center of the platform with seven Epitaph Users surrounding him*
Kaeion: *panting* You’re…stronger than…before…
Gwen: Not just stronger. Better, faster… *cracks knuckles* …and meaner too.
Kyuzo: *strums guitar* Ready to give up?
Kaeion: …You’re joking, right? *coats self in blue fire and smirks* …This battle’s only beginning…
*the seven Factor Users back away as Kaeion prepares to summon his Avatar; meanwhile, Hayate emerges from the rubble of the wall he collided with and spits blood out of his mouth*
Hayate: Ugh… H-Huh?
Kaeion: Come forth!!! AZURE FLAME GOD!!!
*moments later, Avatar Space appears and Kaeion towers above the Factor Users as the Azure Flame God*
Neon: *smirk* Y’all know what time it is?
Vyce: Oh, yeah!
Kyuzo: Let’s ‘Avatar up’! “Gaze into the face of death!” SKEITH!!![/b]
Ayliori: “Deception is thy weapon!” INNIS!!![/b]
Neon: “Born from the tree of mana!” MAGUS!!![/b]
Zenjiro: “Thy insight is absolute!” FIDCHELL!!![/b]
Vyce: “Give in to temptation!” MACHA!!![/b]
Gwen: “Seek thy vengeance!” TARVOS!!![/b]
Ren: “Be reborn in the Earth!” CORBENIK!!![/b]
*one-by-one, the Factor Users summon their Avatars, with their Lost Weapons integrated into their Avatars’ data*
All: LET’S GO!!!!!
*the Factor Users in their Avatar forms fly around the Azure Flame God like flies, firing energy shots at him and striking him with their weapons – this time, actually dealing him damage; Hayate watches from below*
Hayate: Tch! I may not have a Lost Weapon, but I do have an Avatar, which means I can still fight! “Twin moons, shine down!” GORRE!!![/b] …Huh!? “…Twin moons, shine down!” …Nothing’s happening… W-Why is nothing happening…?
Kaeion: It’s your fear, boy! Your fear of dying is interfering with your link to Gorre!
Hayate: …No… Please… Not now…
*meanwhile, at the Serpent of Lore…*
Kuhn: What’s wrong with him!? Why isn’t his Avatar appearing!?
Sakubo: The Gorre Factor deals with some of the more powerful human emotions. It mainly deals with human cruelty and machination, but is blinded by insecurity. …Back then, my “sister Saku” was the only one of us able to control Avatar Gorre because I was too weak. And right now, Hayate’s conflicted because he doubts his own strength as a Factor User due to lack of a Lost Weapon.
Hayate: …
Vyce (Macha): Macha Factor ~ Bewitching Wind!
*Avatar Macha conjures a huge rosebud; as Macha connects its fist with the rosebud, it breaks up into tiny rose petals that swirl around the Azure Flame God, cutting into its data*
Kaeion (AFG): GAH!!!
Gwen (Tarvos): Tarvos Factor ~ Orb of Revenge!
*Avatar Tarvos generates a pair of energy orbs that explode into fields of lightning upon colliding with the Azure Flame God; the group of Avatars would notice a green shell appear around the Azure Flame God, which shortly shatters*
Neon (Magus): The [Protect Break]!! Now’s our chance!!
*each Avatar generates its bracelet, aims it at the Azure Flame God, and charge up a Data Drain blast*
All: DATA…DRAIN!!!!!
*from seven angles, the Azure Flame God is struck by a septuple-Data-Drain attack*
Kaeion (AFG): GRAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!
*in a great flash of light, the Azure Flame God is destroyed; Kaeion is seen returning to the ground, out of breath*
Kaeion: No…! H-How was I…defeated this easily…!?
Kyuzo: *exits Avatar form* Simple. We’re better than you.
Kaeion: You…insignificant fool… It doesn’t matter what you do to me… As long as Althena awakens, your fates are already sealed…
Kyuzo: Oh, really? *draws Lost Weapon* …I’ll be sure to send her to hell right behind you!
*Kyuzo harshly strums his guitar, striking Kaeion with another sound wave*
Kaeion: AAAAALTHEEEEENAAAAA!!!!!
*with Kyuzo’s attack, Kaeion’s data vanishes into thin air*
Ren: …It’s finally over…
Zenjiro: No… Not just yet… Hey, Haseo! You should be able to find where Althena’s hiding now, right?
*…Serpent of Lore…*
Haseo: …Yata?
Yata: I’m closing in on her position right now. But it’ll take some time.
Ovan: …It matters not. You’ve all done exceptionally well. We’ll contact you when Althena’s found.
*at Megin Fi, Kyuzo and the Factor Users approach Hayate*
Gwen: Hey, blondie! What’s the deal with not helping us battle!?
Kyuzo: Tch! Not that we even needed it…
Neon: Is something wrong, Hayate?
Hayate: … *grits teeth*
Ayliori: You still bummed that you didn’t get a Lost Weapon like us?
Hayate: Grrrr…
Ren: It’s alright, Hayate. You’re as important a Factor User as the rest of us. You know we won’t be able to destroy Althena without--
Hayate: WOULD YOU ALL JUST SHUT UP ALREADY?!?
All: *gasp*
Hayate: I know what you’re trying to say, so stop beating around the bush!!! I know, alright?!? I was useless!!! Did you see it?!? Kaeion took me down without even trying!!!
Zenjiro: …Hayate…
Hayate: I’m sick and tired of everyone feeling sorry for me!!! And let’s face it!!! Without a Lost Weapon, I’m powerless!!! *turns away*
Neon: Come on, Hayate…
Hayate: Just…leave me alone… *gates out*
All: …
*Δ Hidden Forbidden Bulwark ~ Morrigu Barrow Wall*
*several minutes later, Hayate is seen gating into Morrigu Barrow; almost immediately, he walks up to the Tri-Edge-sign-scarred wall and punches it*
Hayate: Dammit! Dammit, dammit, DAMMIT!!! This sucks! Everyone else is getting stronger while I’m stuck eating their dust!
*just then, his sister Sakuya appears next to him in ghost form*
Sakuya: …Oh, Kazu-niichan… I wish I could help you somehow…but I don’t know how to…
Hayate: I just…I feel so goddamn helpless! How am I supposed to help the others if I can’t even summon my Avatar right!? DAMMIT!!! *falls to knees* …I wish… I wish I had never become a Factor User…
Sakuya: Don’t say that!
Hayate: Huh…?
Sakuya: The power of Gorre brought us together… The power of Gorre gave you this power so that you could use it to protect… Wishing you had never become a Factor User… That’s like wishing you never reunited with me!!!
*tears begin to fill Sakuya’s eyes*
Hayate: …Saku-neechan, I… I’m sorry…
Sakuya: *wipes away tears* I want to help you, Kazu-niichan… I don’t know how, but I’m going to help you get stronger! I promise!
Hayate: …
*just then, Hayate notices someone gating into the Lost Ground without the use of the Chaos Gate; it was Kaeion*
Hayate: *gasp, goes into hiding* Kaeion!? He’s still alive!? And what’s he doing here!?
Kaeion: *walks up to the cliff’s edge* …Althena…it’s time to wake up, my mistress…
*Kaeion slowly closes his eyes and dives headfirst into the AIDA-infested ravine*
Hayate: What the hell?!?
*Hayate runs over to the cliff’s edge and watches as Kaeion disappears into the sea of AIDA*
Hayate: …Is… Is Althena down there? …Well…I guess there’s only one way to find out!
*Hayate suddenly leaps off of the edge and plunges straight into the sea of AIDA*
*Σ Hidden Forbidden Fake Sacrament ~ Anti-Existence of Caerleon Medb*
Hayate: Ohhh… Huh?
*Hayate opens his eyes and finds himself in the Caerleon-Medb-like Lost Ground where Althena slept; he rises to his feet and gazes ahead at the large glass structure Althena was sleeping inside*
Hayate: …Is that…?
: Well, well. You’ve done well to find this place, little Gorre.
*Kaeion emerges from behind the structure and confronts Hayate*
Hayate: Kaeion!
Kaeion: You’re just in time to witness the moment of truth…!
Hayate: *gasp* No!
Kaeion: YES!!! *turns to face structure* OH, MIGHTY ALTHENA!!! HEAR MY VOICE!!! I AWAKEN THEE FROM THY DEEP SLUMBER!!!
*the entire Lost Ground begins to quake and the glass structure start to crack; inside the structure, Althena’s arms move and her eyes jolt open*
Hayate: …This is definitely bad…!
*the glass structure suddenly shatters, sending shards of glass flying all over the Lost Ground, and Althena slowly floats down to the ground*
Kaeion: Oh, my mistress… *kneels* You’re even more glamorous up-close…
Althena: … *long yawn* …What a nice nap. … *looks down at Kaeion* …Good morning, Kaeion.
Kaeion: Good morning to you as well, mistress Althena.
Althena: Mmm… I’m feeling hungry.
Kaeion: Worry not, my mistress. *glares at Hayate* …Breakfast is served.
Hayate: *gulp*
Althena: *walks a short distance forward* Hey… I know you…
Hayate: Y-You do?
Althena: Yes. I saw you in my dreams. You’re one of those “Factor Users”, am I right? Kaeion’s told me much about you while I was sleeping.
Hayate: …
Althena: Hmm… You look too scrawny… Wouldn’t make for a very good meal…
Kaeion: *rises to feet* If my mistress pleases, I can guide you to where PC data is perfectly ripened…
Althena: … *evilly smirks* …No need.
Kaeion: Hmm? … *deep gasp*
*Kaeion’s vision shifts down as he realizes that Althena had pierced his chest with her arm*
Hayate: …Oh, my god…
Kaeion: M-Mistress… W-W-Why…?
Althena: Awww… What’s the matter, Kaeion? You look sad. Don’t you want to make your mistress happy?
Kaeion: …A-Al…thena…
Althena: Hehehehe…
*from Kaeion’s chest wound, AIDA bubbles are seen pouring out…*
Kaeion: Ah… Ahhh… AAAAAHHHHH!!!!!
*…and in a matter of seconds, Althena completely consumes him*
Althena: Mmm… Delicious…
*Althena then turns to face Hayate, who was trembling*
Hayate: …
Althena: Awww… You look so cute when you’re scared…
Hayate: (N-No! I can’t be scared! I’m not scared! I’m…NOT SCARED!!!) *draws Caliburn and dashes forward* YAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!
*Hayate leaps up and swings his blade sword down onto Althena, who catches the blade with her left hand*
Hayate: *gasp*
Althena: Hmm… I’d expected more from someone who was giving my Kaeion such a hard time…
*with ease, Althena shatters the Caliburn beneath her grasp and grabs Hayate by the neck*
Hayate: *gasp, choking*
Althena: …I knew it… Even up-close, you’re so scrawny…
Hayate: W-What are you…gonna do to me…?!?
Althena: …I’m going to kill you. *smiles* I hope that’s okay.
*in an instant, Althena breaks Hayate’s data apart with AIDA and destroys his PC body*
Althena: …Hehehe… Hahahaha… HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!
*as Althena cackles, AIDA swirls around her with great ferocity; the sea of AIDA in Morrigu Barrow vibrates intensely; AIDA monsters form and take off into the sky*
*hours later, monsters composed of AIDA completely cloud the skies and The World is in a state of panic as AIDA attacks players in the Root Towns as well as in random areas; players fall into comas left and right; system admins’ voices are heard echoing through Mac Anu*
Admin Announcement: A STATE OF EMERGENCY HAS BEEN DECLARED FOR THE TOWNS OF MAC ANU, DOL DONA, BREG EPONA, AND LUMINA CLOTH. I REPEAT. A STATE OF EMERGENCY HAS BEEN DECLARED FOR THE TOWNS OF MAC ANU, DOL DONA, BREG EPONA, AND LUMINA CLOTH. ALL PLAYER CHARACTERS CURRENTLY LOGGED INTO THE WORLD ARE STRONGLY URGED TO LOG OUT OF THE GAME IMMEDIATELY. I REPEAT…
AIDA <Anna>: *shrieks*
PC1: C’mon, let’s get out of here!!
PC2: Gah!!
PC3: Someone help us!!
*Dekar is seen standing on a pillar high above Mac Anu*
Dekar: *sigh* …To everything, a beginning and an end… God help us…
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
Jack: It’s official! The World’s coming to an end! GAME OVER, MAN!!!
Claire: *slaps Jack* Get a freakin’ hold of yourself, Russell! Just log out!
Jack: Okay… *sigh* Sorry… *logs out*
Claire: …Tch! Damn, this sucks! If The World’s gone, what are we supposed to play then!? *logs out*
Piros VIII: … *looks at Natsuki*
Natsuki: … *looks at Piros*
*Piros suddenly extends a hand to Natsuki; Natsuki smiles, takes Piros by the hand, and the two log out together*
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
Orion: As I address you right now, this might be the last time I address you as the guildmaster of Glaive LeGable.
Usa-chan: Oh, Orion…
Orion: If The World truly is coming to an end, I just want to say…I’ve truly enjoyed the time we had together as a guild and the memories we’ve made. I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world.
Miharu: … *sniffle*
Orion: …When next we meet. *logs out*
Usa-chan: What Orion said. I really had fun in this guild. The adventures we had, the friends we made… *sobs* Why did it have to come to this!? *cries*
Izumi: …Usa-chan…
Usa-chan: *wipes away tears* …I’m alright now. Well then… *logs out*
Miharu: …I hope Neon and the others make it out of this okay… If we all meet up in real life again, I’m treating everyone to ice cream! *logs out*
Izumi: … *looks towards the @home entrance* …Oh, Hayate… Please be okay… Please… *logs out*
*meanwhile, bits and pieces of Hayate’s data are seen floating aimlessly in a pure white pocket of space*
Hayate: …
Hayate: …
Hayate: …
Hayate: …
~ Next Time, on the Series Finale of Infected! ~
Sakuya: I will be Kazu-niichan’s sword and shield…!
~*~*~*~
Hayate: I love The World too much to let it end this way…
Ovan: …Tell me, Hayate… Have you ever heard of the “Key of the Twilight”?
~*~*~*~
Althena: …Thank you, everyone…
~*~*~*~
Dekar: A second “Rebirth”… Is that what you’re suggesting?
~*~*~*~
All: DATA…DRAAAAAIIIIIN!!!!![/i][/size]
~*~*~*~
Aura: Come back, Child of Morganna… It’s not your time… Not yet…
~*~*~*~
Izumi: …I love you…
Final Phase: Now or Never![/color]
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Sacrament ~ Great Temple of Caerleon Medb*
Neon: “Lost…Weapons”?
Ovan: Yes. At first, they were remnants of the first Epitaph Users whose data was lost due to the failure of CC Corp.’s R.A. Plan. But it would seem that these Lost Weapons were manmade… *smirk* …Or should I say…“goddess-made”.
Ayliori: …Aura…
Endrance: Precisely. When the other Epitaph Users and I first took hold of our respective Lost Weapons 20 years ago, our powers as Epitaph Users skyrocketed. With any luck, these Lost Weapons will do the same for you Factor Users.
Pi: There’s one Lost Weapon for each Factor Users. Skeith, Innis, Magus, Fidchell…
Atoli: …Corbenik, Tarvos, Macha, and…oh…
*Hayate stands before the fifth platform, where no Lost Weapon was present*
Hayate: …There’s one missing…
Sakubo: Ovan, why is there no Lost Weapon for Gorre?
Ovan: …
Aura: …Please…when you see Gorre…could you tell him…I’m sorry?
Ovan: …Hmm… The Factor Users were all chosen by the Phases of Morganna because they share a deep-rooted connection with their respective factors…but…Hayate had acquired his Morganna Factor through…different means… These Lost Weapons were created from bits of data emanating from the Factor Users. Perhaps it’s because the Gorre Factor rooted into Hayate’s data is more complex than the other factors…that a Lost Weapon couldn’t be generated…
Hayate: …So there’s…no Lost Weapon for me?
All: …
Hayate: … *rubs back of head* …Well, that sucks… Hehehe…
Neon: Hayate…
Hayate: H-Hey! Don’t get so depressed. The last thing I want is for people to feel sorry for me. Besides… *draws Vorpal Blade* …my sister will give me all the strength I need.
Kuhn: Heh. I really admire that optimism of yours, Hayate.
Hayate: Hahaha…
Kyuzo: Okay! Down to business! How the heck do we get these “Lost Weapons” out?
Yata: Pi. If you please.
Pi: At once. *draws Blade Mia*
Gwen: H-Hey!!! Isn’t that the…!?
Ren: The last .hack//Arm!
Zenjiro: …How long have you had that for?
Pi: *shrug shoulders* A couple of weeks, why?
Neon: YOU MEAN TO TELL ME WE TREKKED 100 FLOORS OF VICIOUS MONSTERS AND BOOBY TRAPS FOR NOTHING?!?!?
Yata: It was important for the .hack//Arms to stay out of Kaeion’s hands.
Kyuzo: Oh, sure… Mask your reasons so that you’d look like the good guy… Typical system admins…
Ovan: *ahem* Moving on. Pi?
Pi: Yes.
*Pi approaches the Lost Weapons one-by-one, waiting for the Blade Mia in her hand to react; she approaches Skeith’s Lost Weapon, but nothing happens*
Kyuzo: …
*she then approaches Innis’ Lost Weapon, but still nothing happens*
Ayliori: …
*she then approaches Magus’ Lost Weapon, but still nothing happens*
Neon: …
*she then approaches Fidchell’s Lost Weapon, but still nothing happens*
Zenjiro: …
*she then approaches Macha’s Lost Weapon; the .hack//Arm suddenly gives off a warm violet glow*
Vyce: *gasp*
Pi: As you can see, each .hack//Arm reacts to a specific Lost Weapon.
Kuhn: 20 years ago, we had to unlock the power of the Lost Weapons by using a unique set of items called “Adler’s Keys”. Looks like this time around, the .hack//Arms are the Adler’s Keys themselves.
Neon: …Wait… A-Are you saying…?
Yata: Yes. …In order for the Lost Weapons to be unsealed…the .hack//Arms must be sacrificed.
All: *gasp*
Kyuzo: SAY WHAT?!? SACRIFICED?!?
Ovan: Members of Glaive LeGable and the Samurai 7 are to return to their @homes and bring the .hack//Arms here immediately.
Hayate: …I wonder how Orion’s gonna react to this news…
*Hayate and Neon walk towards the Chaos Gate, but are suddenly blocked off by Kyuzo*
Hayate/Neon: *gasp*
Kyuzo: You two aren’t going anywhere!!!
Neon: Kyuzo! What the hell are you doing!?
Kyuzo: *draws blade sword* I won’t give up the .hack//Arms!!! I’ve come too far for all my plans to just go up in smoke like this!!!
Hayate: Are you out of your mind?!? The World’s in serious danger, and STILL you’re only thinking about yourself?!?
Ayliori: …Kyu-chan…
Kyuzo: Forget it! You can’t change my mind! You want the .hack//Arms, you’ll have to go…through…m-me… *drops blade sword and falls over*
Gwen: H-Huh? What just…?
Haseo: Good job, Ren.
Ren: *holding microphone* No problem.
*with Kyuzo asleep, Hayate and Neon walk past him and warp to Dol Dona*
Kuhn: But if Kyuzo’s incapacitated, who’s gonna deliver the .hack//Arms from Samurai 7?
Yata: … *looks down at Samurai 7 Guest Key* …I will.
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
Orion: …
Izumi: …
Usa-chan: …
Miharu: …
Hayate: …And…that’s the situation, Orion.
Neon: It’s the only way to defeat Kaeion. The only way to save The World.
Usa-chan: But…sacrificing the .hack//Arms!? After all that hard work!?
Izumi: …
Miharu: *crosses arms* All this time spent searching for them… It’s like it’s all going to waste…
Hayate: It’s not going to waste! The .hack//Arms will fuel the power of the Lost Weapons and, with them, The World will be saved!
Orion: …
Neon: …Orion…we can only imagine how you must feel right now, but--
Orion: Enough.
Neon: *gasp*
*Orion suddenly walks into the rear chamber of the @home…*
All: …
*…and comes back out with the Blade Balmung, Blade Marlo, Blade Orca, Broad BlackRose, Lance Gardenia, Magic Tsukasa, Scythe Ryoko, Spin Moonstone, and Spin Sora*
Izumi: O-Orion! Then…?
Orion: …I swore…that I would keep the .hack//Arms out of the wrong hands… But I can see now that there’s much more at stake than just the lives of a handful of players… *walks up to Hayate and Neon* If sacrificing the .hack//Arms will be for the good of The World…then I’ll gladly lend a helping hand.
Hayate: …Orion… *takes .hack//Arms* Thank you!
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
*Jack, Claire, Piros VIII, and Natsuki are seen entering the @home shortly after completing a quest*
Piros VIII: *points fist to the sky* Another mission successfully completed!
Natsuki: *points fist to the sky* Yeah!
Claire: *collapses onto floor* My GOD, that took forever…!
Jack: *collapses onto floor* No más… No más…
Natsuki: … *looks around* …You know…this guild’s kinda quiet without Sammy around.
Piros VIII: Indeed.
Jack: *hops to feet* Yeah. Wonder what the old blondie’s up to right now.
: …Someone mention my name?All: *blink* Hmm?
*the group turns around to see a familiar face standing at the entrance to the @home*
All: …Samekh!
*a short time later, the Epitaph/Factor Users all gather again at Caerleon Medb*
Haseo: Let’s see… Blade Balmung, Blade Marlo, Blade Mia…
Atoli: …Blade Orca, Blade Rachel, Broad BlackRose…
Kuhn: …Broad Sanjuro, Lance Gardenia, Lance Usagimaru…
Yata: …Magic Helba, Magic Mistral, Magic Tsukasa…
Sakubo: …Scythe Piros, Scythe Ryoko, Scythe Subaru…
Endrance: …Spin Kite, Spin Moonstone, Spin Natsume…
Pi: …Spin Sora, Spell Elk…
Ovan: …There’s one missing. Where’s the Spell Wiseman?
: You rang?*the group turns to see Dekar and Kaga standing near the Chaos Gate*
Haseo: Dekar! But how--
Dekar: --did I know? Come now, Haseo, surely you didn’t think I’d be left out of the festivities.
Kaga: *draws Spell Wiseman* …This is what you need, right?
Hayate: Kaga…
Kaga: It’s okay. I think I’ve learned as much about the .hack//Arms as I’m going to learn.
Ovan: …Thank you for bringing him here, Dekar.
Dekar: Think nothing of it.
Kuhn: Well, isn’t this a treat? First all the Factor Users were gathered together – now the .hack//Arms are all gathered together too.
Pi: …You are such a sentimental idiot.
Kuhn: Aw, that hurts, Pi…
*the group takes the next few moments to match up each .hack//Arm with its corresponding Lost Weapon; first, the Blade Balmung, Blade Marlo, and Spin Sora are sacrificed to unseal Kyuzo’s Lost Weapon: a black and red double-necked guitar called the “Death Bringer”*
Kyuzo: Hmm… *plays guitar riff* …Alright, I’ll admit this is kinda awesome.
*next, the Broad BlackRose, Magic Mistral, and Scythe Subaru are sacrificed to unseal Ayliori’s Lost Weapon: a long turquoise Cleric staff called the “Mirage Cross”*
Ayliori: Hahaha! Not bad!
*then, the Blade Orca, Scythe Ryoko, and Spin Kite are sacrificed to unseal Neon’s Lost Weapon: a pair of emerald and gold dual swords called the “Heaven’s Pulse”*
Neon: *swings dual swords* Damn! These things are as light as feathers!
*then, the Broad Sanjuro, Scythe Piros, and Spell Wiseman are sacrificed to unseal Zenjiro’s Lost Weapon: a pair of gold and orange Macabre fans called the “Clairvoyance”*
Zenjiro: Hey… Not too shabby.
*then, the Blade Mia, Magic Tsukasa, and Spell Elk are sacrificed to unseal Vyce’s Lost Weapon: an ornate purple Templar’s catalyst called the “Lord of Roses”*
Vyce: *generates energy scythe* …Nice! No more Templar weapon time limit!
*then, then the Blade Rachel, Lance Gardenia, and Lance Usagimaru are sacrificed to unseal Gwen’s Lost Weapon: a long, double-edged javelin with pink blades called the “Shattered Wing”*
Gwen: *twirls javelin* Let’s see that Kaeion get the better of me now!
*finally, the Magic Helba, Spin Natsume, and Spin Moonstone are sacrificed to unseal Ren’s Lost Weapon: a pair of sapphire dual swords called the “Last Requiem”*
Ren: *looks at dual swords* Hehehe… I can do some REAL damage with these.
*as his friends marvel at their new weapons, Hayate watches from near the Chaos Gate*
Hayate: …
*just then, his sister Sakuya appears next to him in ghost form*
Sakuya: …You feel left out, don’t you?
Hayate: *turns away from Sakuya* …I just want this battle to end. That’s all.
Sakuya: …
Haseo: …Hmm!? …The alarm at Raven’s gone off!
*the Epitaph Users and Factor Users all warp back to the Serpent of Lore, and Yata walks up to the console*
Yata: …It’s Kaeion.
Kuhn: Jeez… Guy must have the best timing in the world.
Yata: He’s at Megin Fi. *turns to face Factor Users* You have your Lost Weapons. Go. End this battle once and for all.
All: YES, SIR!!!
*Θ Hidden Forbidden Battlefield ~ Coite-Bodher Battlefield*
*Kaeion is seen standing inside Megin Fi, his body giving off a violet glow*
Kaeion: … *gasp* …Yes… Yes! It’s finally time! …Hmm?
*the Factor Users all enter to confront him with their Lost Weapons drawn*
Kaeion: So…you’ve all acquired new toys… No matter. *draws scythe* Even if I should lose this battle, it makes no difference! Althena has all the power she needs! All that’s left is to wake her up from her long sleep!
All: OVER OUR DEAD BODIES!!! *charges forward*
Neon/Ren: Whirlwind!!!
*Neon and Ren zoom towards Kaeion, leaving behind them streaks of green and blue; as soon as their dual swords connect with Kaeion’s scythe, a loud clang echoes through the Lost Ground*
Kaeion: !!!
*meanwhile, Kyuzo leaps into the air and positions himself just above Kaeion*
Kyuzo: You ready to rock?!?
Kaeion: *looks up and gasps*
*Kyuzo harshly strums his guitar, causing the air to bend and strike Kaeion with a wave of sound*
Kaeion: Gah…!
*Vyce and Gwen are seen behind Kaeion holding lances*
Vyce: One…!
Gwen: Two…!
Vyce/Gwen: Scarlet Thrust!!!
*the two fires red needles of energy that pierce Kaeion’s back*
Kaeion: Agghhhh!! (So…powerful…) …Huh!?
*looking over to his side, Kaeion notices Hayate pouncing on him with his blades drawn*
Hayate: Forget about me, ugly!?
Kaeion: Tch!
*before Hayate’s blades connect, Kaeion swings his scythe swiftly at the last second, clashing with Hayate’s blades and knocking them out of his hands*
Hayate: *gasp*
*Kaeion follows by grasping Hayate’s head with his left hand…*
Kaeion: How could you forget you?!? Out of all your fellow Factor Users, you’re the most irritating!!!
*…and tosses him clear into a wall*
Hayate: Gah!
Vyce/Gwen: Hayate!
Kaeion: Hmph! …Hmm?
*looking up at the sky, Kaeion notices an accumulation of magic energy; near the entrance of Megin Fi, Ayliori and Zenjiro are seen gathering energy for a powerful two-man spell*
Zenjiro: Ready?
Ayliori: Ready!
Zenjiro: “The burning comet that dwells within my soul pulsates towards the heartbeat of beginning…”
*a dimensional rift opens up in the sky above Kaeion…*
Ayliori: “…The angel’s whispers dance across the galaxy, chasing after my memories…”
*…the rift in the sky gradually opens wider…*
Both: “…We dye the stars in the heavens above a deep shade of red as miracles are formed inside our grasped hands…”
*…then, a great white light emanates from the rift…*
Both: “…We stand before the door to the truth!” STARLIGHT BREAKER!!!
*…just then, a gigantic volley and stars and comets rains from the rift and down towards Kaeion*
Kaeion: …
*from the Epitaph Users’ point of view at the Serpent of Lore, a great explosion covers the Lost Ground*
Kuhn: YEAH!!! That’s the way!
Sakubo: Boy, I’d sure hate to be in Kaeion’s shoes right now.
Atoli: Hehe. That’s for sure.
*as the smoke clouding Megin Fi clears, Kaeion is seen standing at the center of the platform with seven Epitaph Users surrounding him*
Kaeion: *panting* You’re…stronger than…before…
Gwen: Not just stronger. Better, faster… *cracks knuckles* …and meaner too.
Kyuzo: *strums guitar* Ready to give up?
Kaeion: …You’re joking, right? *coats self in blue fire and smirks* …This battle’s only beginning…
*the seven Factor Users back away as Kaeion prepares to summon his Avatar; meanwhile, Hayate emerges from the rubble of the wall he collided with and spits blood out of his mouth*
Hayate: Ugh… H-Huh?
Kaeion: Come forth!!! AZURE FLAME GOD!!!
*moments later, Avatar Space appears and Kaeion towers above the Factor Users as the Azure Flame God*
Neon: *smirk* Y’all know what time it is?
Vyce: Oh, yeah!
Kyuzo: Let’s ‘Avatar up’! “Gaze into the face of death!” SKEITH!!![/b]
Ayliori: “Deception is thy weapon!” INNIS!!![/b]
Neon: “Born from the tree of mana!” MAGUS!!![/b]
Zenjiro: “Thy insight is absolute!” FIDCHELL!!![/b]
Vyce: “Give in to temptation!” MACHA!!![/b]
Gwen: “Seek thy vengeance!” TARVOS!!![/b]
Ren: “Be reborn in the Earth!” CORBENIK!!![/b]
*one-by-one, the Factor Users summon their Avatars, with their Lost Weapons integrated into their Avatars’ data*
All: LET’S GO!!!!!
*the Factor Users in their Avatar forms fly around the Azure Flame God like flies, firing energy shots at him and striking him with their weapons – this time, actually dealing him damage; Hayate watches from below*
Hayate: Tch! I may not have a Lost Weapon, but I do have an Avatar, which means I can still fight! “Twin moons, shine down!” GORRE!!![/b] …Huh!? “…Twin moons, shine down!” …Nothing’s happening… W-Why is nothing happening…?
Kaeion: It’s your fear, boy! Your fear of dying is interfering with your link to Gorre!
Hayate: …No… Please… Not now…
*meanwhile, at the Serpent of Lore…*
Kuhn: What’s wrong with him!? Why isn’t his Avatar appearing!?
Sakubo: The Gorre Factor deals with some of the more powerful human emotions. It mainly deals with human cruelty and machination, but is blinded by insecurity. …Back then, my “sister Saku” was the only one of us able to control Avatar Gorre because I was too weak. And right now, Hayate’s conflicted because he doubts his own strength as a Factor User due to lack of a Lost Weapon.
Hayate: …
Vyce (Macha): Macha Factor ~ Bewitching Wind!
*Avatar Macha conjures a huge rosebud; as Macha connects its fist with the rosebud, it breaks up into tiny rose petals that swirl around the Azure Flame God, cutting into its data*
Kaeion (AFG): GAH!!!
Gwen (Tarvos): Tarvos Factor ~ Orb of Revenge!
*Avatar Tarvos generates a pair of energy orbs that explode into fields of lightning upon colliding with the Azure Flame God; the group of Avatars would notice a green shell appear around the Azure Flame God, which shortly shatters*
Neon (Magus): The [Protect Break]!! Now’s our chance!!
*each Avatar generates its bracelet, aims it at the Azure Flame God, and charge up a Data Drain blast*
All: DATA…DRAIN!!!!!
*from seven angles, the Azure Flame God is struck by a septuple-Data-Drain attack*
Kaeion (AFG): GRAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!
*in a great flash of light, the Azure Flame God is destroyed; Kaeion is seen returning to the ground, out of breath*
Kaeion: No…! H-How was I…defeated this easily…!?
Kyuzo: *exits Avatar form* Simple. We’re better than you.
Kaeion: You…insignificant fool… It doesn’t matter what you do to me… As long as Althena awakens, your fates are already sealed…
Kyuzo: Oh, really? *draws Lost Weapon* …I’ll be sure to send her to hell right behind you!
*Kyuzo harshly strums his guitar, striking Kaeion with another sound wave*
Kaeion: AAAAALTHEEEEENAAAAA!!!!!
*with Kyuzo’s attack, Kaeion’s data vanishes into thin air*
Ren: …It’s finally over…
Zenjiro: No… Not just yet… Hey, Haseo! You should be able to find where Althena’s hiding now, right?
*…Serpent of Lore…*
Haseo: …Yata?
Yata: I’m closing in on her position right now. But it’ll take some time.
Ovan: …It matters not. You’ve all done exceptionally well. We’ll contact you when Althena’s found.
*at Megin Fi, Kyuzo and the Factor Users approach Hayate*
Gwen: Hey, blondie! What’s the deal with not helping us battle!?
Kyuzo: Tch! Not that we even needed it…
Neon: Is something wrong, Hayate?
Hayate: … *grits teeth*
Ayliori: You still bummed that you didn’t get a Lost Weapon like us?
Hayate: Grrrr…
Ren: It’s alright, Hayate. You’re as important a Factor User as the rest of us. You know we won’t be able to destroy Althena without--
Hayate: WOULD YOU ALL JUST SHUT UP ALREADY?!?
All: *gasp*
Hayate: I know what you’re trying to say, so stop beating around the bush!!! I know, alright?!? I was useless!!! Did you see it?!? Kaeion took me down without even trying!!!
Zenjiro: …Hayate…
Hayate: I’m sick and tired of everyone feeling sorry for me!!! And let’s face it!!! Without a Lost Weapon, I’m powerless!!! *turns away*
Neon: Come on, Hayate…
Hayate: Just…leave me alone… *gates out*
All: …
*Δ Hidden Forbidden Bulwark ~ Morrigu Barrow Wall*
*several minutes later, Hayate is seen gating into Morrigu Barrow; almost immediately, he walks up to the Tri-Edge-sign-scarred wall and punches it*
Hayate: Dammit! Dammit, dammit, DAMMIT!!! This sucks! Everyone else is getting stronger while I’m stuck eating their dust!
*just then, his sister Sakuya appears next to him in ghost form*
Sakuya: …Oh, Kazu-niichan… I wish I could help you somehow…but I don’t know how to…
Hayate: I just…I feel so goddamn helpless! How am I supposed to help the others if I can’t even summon my Avatar right!? DAMMIT!!! *falls to knees* …I wish… I wish I had never become a Factor User…
Sakuya: Don’t say that!
Hayate: Huh…?
Sakuya: The power of Gorre brought us together… The power of Gorre gave you this power so that you could use it to protect… Wishing you had never become a Factor User… That’s like wishing you never reunited with me!!!
*tears begin to fill Sakuya’s eyes*
Hayate: …Saku-neechan, I… I’m sorry…
Sakuya: *wipes away tears* I want to help you, Kazu-niichan… I don’t know how, but I’m going to help you get stronger! I promise!
Hayate: …
*just then, Hayate notices someone gating into the Lost Ground without the use of the Chaos Gate; it was Kaeion*
Hayate: *gasp, goes into hiding* Kaeion!? He’s still alive!? And what’s he doing here!?
Kaeion: *walks up to the cliff’s edge* …Althena…it’s time to wake up, my mistress…
*Kaeion slowly closes his eyes and dives headfirst into the AIDA-infested ravine*
Hayate: What the hell?!?
*Hayate runs over to the cliff’s edge and watches as Kaeion disappears into the sea of AIDA*
Hayate: …Is… Is Althena down there? …Well…I guess there’s only one way to find out!
*Hayate suddenly leaps off of the edge and plunges straight into the sea of AIDA*
~*~*~*~
*Σ Hidden Forbidden Fake Sacrament ~ Anti-Existence of Caerleon Medb*
Hayate: Ohhh… Huh?
*Hayate opens his eyes and finds himself in the Caerleon-Medb-like Lost Ground where Althena slept; he rises to his feet and gazes ahead at the large glass structure Althena was sleeping inside*
Hayate: …Is that…?
: Well, well. You’ve done well to find this place, little Gorre.*Kaeion emerges from behind the structure and confronts Hayate*
Hayate: Kaeion!
Kaeion: You’re just in time to witness the moment of truth…!
Hayate: *gasp* No!
Kaeion: YES!!! *turns to face structure* OH, MIGHTY ALTHENA!!! HEAR MY VOICE!!! I AWAKEN THEE FROM THY DEEP SLUMBER!!!
*the entire Lost Ground begins to quake and the glass structure start to crack; inside the structure, Althena’s arms move and her eyes jolt open*
Hayate: …This is definitely bad…!
*the glass structure suddenly shatters, sending shards of glass flying all over the Lost Ground, and Althena slowly floats down to the ground*
Kaeion: Oh, my mistress… *kneels* You’re even more glamorous up-close…
Althena: … *long yawn* …What a nice nap. … *looks down at Kaeion* …Good morning, Kaeion.
Kaeion: Good morning to you as well, mistress Althena.
Althena: Mmm… I’m feeling hungry.
Kaeion: Worry not, my mistress. *glares at Hayate* …Breakfast is served.
Hayate: *gulp*
Althena: *walks a short distance forward* Hey… I know you…
Hayate: Y-You do?
Althena: Yes. I saw you in my dreams. You’re one of those “Factor Users”, am I right? Kaeion’s told me much about you while I was sleeping.
Hayate: …
Althena: Hmm… You look too scrawny… Wouldn’t make for a very good meal…
Kaeion: *rises to feet* If my mistress pleases, I can guide you to where PC data is perfectly ripened…
Althena: … *evilly smirks* …No need.
Kaeion: Hmm? … *deep gasp*
*Kaeion’s vision shifts down as he realizes that Althena had pierced his chest with her arm*
Hayate: …Oh, my god…
Kaeion: M-Mistress… W-W-Why…?
Althena: Awww… What’s the matter, Kaeion? You look sad. Don’t you want to make your mistress happy?
Kaeion: …A-Al…thena…
Althena: Hehehehe…
*from Kaeion’s chest wound, AIDA bubbles are seen pouring out…*
Kaeion: Ah… Ahhh… AAAAAHHHHH!!!!!
*…and in a matter of seconds, Althena completely consumes him*
Althena: Mmm… Delicious…
*Althena then turns to face Hayate, who was trembling*
Hayate: …
Althena: Awww… You look so cute when you’re scared…
Hayate: (N-No! I can’t be scared! I’m not scared! I’m…NOT SCARED!!!) *draws Caliburn and dashes forward* YAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!
*Hayate leaps up and swings his blade sword down onto Althena, who catches the blade with her left hand*
Hayate: *gasp*
Althena: Hmm… I’d expected more from someone who was giving my Kaeion such a hard time…
*with ease, Althena shatters the Caliburn beneath her grasp and grabs Hayate by the neck*
Hayate: *gasp, choking*
Althena: …I knew it… Even up-close, you’re so scrawny…
Hayate: W-What are you…gonna do to me…?!?
Althena: …I’m going to kill you. *smiles* I hope that’s okay.
*in an instant, Althena breaks Hayate’s data apart with AIDA and destroys his PC body*
Althena: …Hehehe… Hahahaha… HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!
*as Althena cackles, AIDA swirls around her with great ferocity; the sea of AIDA in Morrigu Barrow vibrates intensely; AIDA monsters form and take off into the sky*
~*~*~*~
*hours later, monsters composed of AIDA completely cloud the skies and The World is in a state of panic as AIDA attacks players in the Root Towns as well as in random areas; players fall into comas left and right; system admins’ voices are heard echoing through Mac Anu*
Admin Announcement: A STATE OF EMERGENCY HAS BEEN DECLARED FOR THE TOWNS OF MAC ANU, DOL DONA, BREG EPONA, AND LUMINA CLOTH. I REPEAT. A STATE OF EMERGENCY HAS BEEN DECLARED FOR THE TOWNS OF MAC ANU, DOL DONA, BREG EPONA, AND LUMINA CLOTH. ALL PLAYER CHARACTERS CURRENTLY LOGGED INTO THE WORLD ARE STRONGLY URGED TO LOG OUT OF THE GAME IMMEDIATELY. I REPEAT…
AIDA <Anna>: *shrieks*
PC1: C’mon, let’s get out of here!!
PC2: Gah!!
PC3: Someone help us!!
*Dekar is seen standing on a pillar high above Mac Anu*
Dekar: *sigh* …To everything, a beginning and an end… God help us…
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
Jack: It’s official! The World’s coming to an end! GAME OVER, MAN!!!
Claire: *slaps Jack* Get a freakin’ hold of yourself, Russell! Just log out!
Jack: Okay… *sigh* Sorry… *logs out*
Claire: …Tch! Damn, this sucks! If The World’s gone, what are we supposed to play then!? *logs out*
Piros VIII: … *looks at Natsuki*
Natsuki: … *looks at Piros*
*Piros suddenly extends a hand to Natsuki; Natsuki smiles, takes Piros by the hand, and the two log out together*
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
Orion: As I address you right now, this might be the last time I address you as the guildmaster of Glaive LeGable.
Usa-chan: Oh, Orion…
Orion: If The World truly is coming to an end, I just want to say…I’ve truly enjoyed the time we had together as a guild and the memories we’ve made. I wouldn’t trade them for anything in the world.
Miharu: … *sniffle*
Orion: …When next we meet. *logs out*
Usa-chan: What Orion said. I really had fun in this guild. The adventures we had, the friends we made… *sobs* Why did it have to come to this!? *cries*
Izumi: …Usa-chan…
Usa-chan: *wipes away tears* …I’m alright now. Well then… *logs out*
Miharu: …I hope Neon and the others make it out of this okay… If we all meet up in real life again, I’m treating everyone to ice cream! *logs out*
Izumi: … *looks towards the @home entrance* …Oh, Hayate… Please be okay… Please… *logs out*
*meanwhile, bits and pieces of Hayate’s data are seen floating aimlessly in a pure white pocket of space*
Hayate: …
…Kazu-niichan… Kazu-niichan…
Hayate: …
Wake up, Kazu-niichan!
Hayate: …
Please, Kazu-niichan!!! Open your eyes!!!
Hayate: …
KAZU-NIICHAN!!!!!
[/i][/size][/b]~ Next Time, on the Series Finale of Infected! ~
Sakuya: I will be Kazu-niichan’s sword and shield…!
~*~*~*~
Hayate: I love The World too much to let it end this way…
Ovan: …Tell me, Hayate… Have you ever heard of the “Key of the Twilight”?
~*~*~*~
Althena: …Thank you, everyone…
~*~*~*~
Dekar: A second “Rebirth”… Is that what you’re suggesting?
~*~*~*~
All: DATA…DRAAAAAIIIIIN!!!!![/i][/size]
~*~*~*~
Aura: Come back, Child of Morganna… It’s not your time… Not yet…
~*~*~*~
Izumi: …I love you…
Final Phase: Now or Never![/color]
