Post by Hayate on Jan 14, 2008 19:11:06 GMT -5
~ Eternal City of Mac Anu; June 19, 2037 ~
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
*the members of Glaive LeGable are seen sitting around with Hayate the only one standing up – just like the moments before Hayate left the guild*
Hayate: …
Izumi: …
Neon: …
Usa-chan: …
Coolidge: …
Miharu: … *gulp*
Orion: Hayate… I didn’t expect to see you back in this @home quite so soon…
Hayate: Yeah… To tell you the truth, neither did I…
*the day before, in Raven’s @home…*
Haseo: …So, what’s this “solution to our dilemma” you have, Ovan?
Ovan: Now that the members of Glaive LeGable have seen Hayate’s factor ability firsthand, I propose that we have Hayate return to the guild…and tell them everything. The factors, the K-Anomaly, everything.
Haseo: Ovan, are you out of your mind!? Do you realize what would happen if word got out about us and what we’re doing!?
Ovan: We’ve already entrusted the safety of the .hack//Arms to the guildmaster of Glaive LeGable. Entrusting our secrets to them would be no different.
Haseo: No! Absolutely not! I won’t allow it! The members of Glaive LeGable have already seen too much!
Ovan: …Haseo.
Haseo: What now!?
Ovan: … *flashes a fake smile* …Trust me.
Haseo: *sweatdrop* …Ovan, have I mentioned how much that fake smile of yours creeps me out?
Endrance: …I can vouch for that…
Ovan: Hear me out. Kyuzo, Gwen, and Ren are all members of guilds. Because they’re constantly sent out into the field by their respective guildmasters – or, in Kyuzo’s case, sent out into the field by discretion – they’re able to keep a sharp eye out for Data Bugs and potential Factor Users. I’m merely proposing that we have Hayate do the same. And since the members of Glaive LeGable are now aware of the existence of players like Hayate, entrusting them with the secret of the K-Anomaly and Factor Users seems like the most prudent option.
Haseo: And should those secrets begin to circulate around The World? What option would we have then?
Ovan: …I’ll take full responsibility.
Haseo: … *turns to Hayate* …Very well. We’ll have Hayate return to the Glaive LeGable guild for the time being. He’ll tell them everything. If they’re trustworthy enough to protect the .hack//Arms, hopefully they’ll be trustworthy enough to also keep their mouths shut.
Hayate: …
Orion: Hmm…
Coolidge: *jaw hanging down* You’re serious!!! Something like THAT’S been going on this whole time?!?
Usa-chan: Data Bugs… Factor Users… The K-Anomaly… It all sounds so scary…!
Hayate: That’s why it’s important that we watch our step from now on, or else…
Kyuzo: …Wait for me, Haruhi…
Hayate: …
Orion: At any rate… *stands up* …it pleases me to see everyone together again. Glaive LeGable is whole once more.
Miharu: Yeah! Welcome back, Hayate! To be honest, it got pretty quiet without you.
Hayate: Hehehe… Thanks, Miharu.
Neon: So, Orion… What happens next?
Orion: *closes eyes and smirks* Hmph… Do you have to ask? *opens eyes* It’s time to double our efforts! Glaive LeGable will never rest until all of the .hack//Arms have been found!
All: RIGHT!!!
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
Claire: …Okay, is everyone clear on this?
Jack: Yup! Let’s do it!
Samekh: *sigh* If we must…
Claire: Piros, this is a simple task, so not even you can mess it up. But just to be on the safe side… DON’T MESS IT UP!!!
Piros: *salutes* You can count on me!
*the @home entrance slowly creaks open*
Claire: Oh! Here he comes! Places, everyone!
*when Kyuzo enters the @home, he sees Claire, Piros, Samekh, and Jack Russell lined up in a row, on their knees*
All: *bows* Welcome home, Master Kyuzo!
Kyuzo: *blinks* …What the hell is this?
Jack: *looks up at Kyuzo* Uh… Well, boss, you were kinda down about what happened to Haruhi, so we decided to welcome you home the same way she does…
Kyuzo: …
Claire: *gulp* (Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all…)
Kyuzo: … *smile* Thank you, everyone. Sorry for worrying you.
Piros: Hehehe! No problem, boss! …Did I mention this was all my idea?
Claire: SAY THAT AGAIN?!?
Piros: Kidding, kidding! Hahaha!!!
Kyuzo: *walks up to Samekh* …Have you found anything out?
Samekh: Yes, Mr. Kyuzo. *stands up* I’ve been tracking the wandering AI’s movements, and I’ve discovered that he mostly appears in and around Lost Grounds. Almost as if he’s…searching for something.
Kyuzo: *clenches fists* Yeah, well… When I get through with him, he’s gonna want to search for a stretcher!
Samekh: I’ve also discovered something else. Something a bit more… disconcerting.
Kyuzo: What’s that?
Samekh: I first picked up on it when the AI used Data Drain on Haruhi.
*images of Haruhi’s PC body vanishing in his arms float in Kyuzo’s mind*
Kyuzo: …
Samekh: Oh! I apologize. I didn’t intend to be so blunt.
Kyuzo: …It’s fine. Go on.
Samekh: *ahem* As I was saying, when the AI used Data Drain on Haruhi and absorbed her PC data, I picked up rapid oscillations in his own data, almost as if absorbing Haruhi had rewritten some of the data flowing through the AI.
Kyuzo: Rewritten?
Samekh: Yes. The change wasn’t too noticeable, but there was a change nonetheless.
Kyuzo: …Tch.
*…Raven @home, Serpent of Lore…*
Endrance: Data bug activity rising! K-Anomaly’s presence confirmed!
Haseo: Where is it located this time!?
Ovan: Tracing… It’s at Hulle Granz Cathedral!
Haseo: Send word to the Factor Users! NOW!!
*minutes later, the members of Glaive LeGable are seen leaving their @home*
Usa-chan: Alright! Now that Hayate’s back, where should we head first?
Hayate: *BEEP, BEEP!* …Hulle Granz. Understood.
Miharu: You say something, Hayate? It sounded like you said “Hulle Granz”.
Hayate: Huh!? N-No, I didn’t!
Orion: Well, we never found a .hack//Arm at Hulle Granz, so that does seem a logical choice.
Coolidge: Alright then! Glaive LeGable, move out!
*as everyone else begins walking off, Hayate clenches his fists*
Hayate: STOP!!!
All: *looking back at Hayate* Huh?
Izumi: What’s the matter, Hayate?
Hayate: You can’t go to Hulle Granz! It’s not…safe…
Neon: …The K-Anomaly is there, isn’t it?
Hayate: …Listen, you guys. You can’t take on the K-Anomaly. You’ll die if you do. I mean, Haruhi already… *gasps, covers mouth*
Miharu: Did you just say Haruhi? As in Samurai 7’s Haruhi?
Usa-chan: You mean…!
Hayate: …
Coolidge: Holy crap…
Hayate: Well… Now you know. So you see? This is exactly why I have to take on the K-Anomaly alone. Only the Factor Users and I can fight him on equal terms.
Izumi: We’re not letting you fight by yourself, Hayate! We’re your friends and we--
Hayate: THIS ISN’T A DISCUSSION!!!
Izumi: *gasp*
Neon: Whoa…
Hayate: I’m going to Hulle Granz to meet up with the other Factor Users. Don’t follow me! *runs off towards the dome*
Orion: …Hayate…
*Hayate eventually reaches the large bridge separating Mac Anu’s dome from its Central District*
Hayate: (This is for the best… If Orion and the others don’t fight the K-Anomaly, they can’t fall into comas… This is the only way to protect them…)
*he soon runs past a Tribal Grappler with long, pink hair leaning against the edge of the bridge*
Grappler: …Out of the Eight Phases of Morganna, the Machinator is perhaps the most unstable…
Hayate: *stops running* Huh? *looks back at the Tribal Grappler* What did you say?
Grappler: *stands up straight and straightens glasses* So… You’re the one who was chosen by Gorre.
Hayate: …Who are you? How do you know about the Eight Phases?
Grappler: Oh, please. I know more about the Eight Phases than you could ever hope to understand.
Hayate: Grrrr…
Pi: Oh, pardon my manners. I didn’t answer your first question. You can call me Pi.
Hayate: Pi, huh…?
Pi: …Well?
Hayate: Hmm?
Pi: I gave you my name. The least you can do is give me yours.
Hayate: Oh. I’m Hayate.
Pi: Hayate… The scion of Gorre, the Machinator… The most volatile of the Eight Phases…
Hayate: What do you mean volatile?
Pi: I mean exactly what I said. You should know that there are two sides to every Factor. And your Factor is a never-ending struggle between those two sides.
Hayate: …I don’t get it…
Pi: No, I suppose you wouldn’t. You’re still just a child after all.
Hayate: Child!?
Pi: *turns away from Hayate* A little warning, boy – Try not to lose yourself to Gorre’s influence. If you do, your next battle…will be against your own mind and soul. *walks away*
Hayate: Who the heck was…? …Oh! Hulle Granz! The K-Anomaly! I’d better get moving! *runs towards the dome*
*D Hidden Forbidden Holy Ground ~ Hulle Granz Cathedral*
*Kaeion is seen standing on top of the altar with his arms spread to his sides and his eyes closed*
Kaeion: “…Returns to nothing, this world of shadowless ones… Never to return, the shadowed one, who quests for the Twilight Dragon…”
*his body begins to give off a faint purple aura*
Kaeion: Oh, mighty Althena… I can feel your warmth… Rest assured, I shall awaken you soon… Hmm?
*Kaeion then turns around to see Hayate, Gwen, and Kyuzo standing by the cathedral doors*
Kyuzo: Talkin’ to your imaginary friend there, K-Anomaly? Hehehe!
Kaeion: *steps down from the altar* …Kaeion.
Gwen: Say what now?
Kaeion: My name…is Kaeion.
Hayate: *looks at Gwen* I thought this thing couldn’t speak in coherent sentences.
Gwen: And it looks different than last time.
Kaeion: *eye twitches* …I’d appreciate it if you didn’t refer to me as a “thing” or an “it”.
Gwen: You’re in no position to make suggestions, pal!
Kaeion: *smirk* Is that so? How about… *draws broadsword* …now!?
Hayate: A broadsword?!? What is this guy, an Assault Ace?!?
Kyuzo: …
Samekh: When the AI used Data Drain on Haruhi and absorbed her PC data, I picked up rapid oscillations in his own data, almost as if absorbing Haruhi had rewritten some of the data flowing through the AI. The change wasn’t too noticeable, but there was a change nonetheless.
Kyuzo: (…So this is what he meant…) I don’t care WHAT job class he is! *draws blade sword* Alright, ‘Kyson’ or whatever the hell your name is, give Haruhi back and I won’t have to slice your arms and legs off!!!
Kaeion: Oh, yeah… Your friend, the Valiant Archer… Her data was especially delectable… Hehehe…
Kyuzo: WRONG ANSWER!!! *dashes towards Kaeion*
Hayate: K-Kyuzo, wait!
Kyuzo: *leaps up* RENGEKI: DEVIL SWORD!!!!!
*Kyuzo plunges down onto Kaeion with an almost never-ending flurry of blade slashes, which Kaeion deflects with his broadsword; eventually, Kaeion swings the sword at amazing speed to send Kyuzo flying and crashing into the cathedral doors*
Kaeion: Is that all you’ve got? If you want to save your friend that badly, I’d expected more than this.
Kyuzo: D-Damn you…to hell…
Gwen: Holy crap! What’s with this guy!? He’s wielding that broadsword as if it were a Shinobi dagger!
Kaeion: *puts broadsword away* Wondrous, isn’t it?
Gwen: You want wondrous!? *draws lance and dashes towards Kaeion* I’ll show you wondrous! Omni Scarlet Thrust!!!
*Gwen fires a multitude of red needle-like shots from her lance; Kaeion begins to slowly walk forward, and the needle-like shots appear to go through him*
Gwen: WHAT THE HELL?!?
Kaeion: Such poor showmanship from the scion of Tarvos… *draws a certain pair of dual swords*
Hayate: *gasp*
*Kaeion is shown wielding the Spin Natsume dual swords*
Hayate: Those dual swords… Those are Tsukiyomi’s dual swords! What did you do to Tsukiyomi!?
Kaeion: Settle down, Machinator – your friend isn’t dead. I just deemed her…unworthy…to wield weapons like these. However…
Hayate: Hmm?
Kaeion: …had I known she was a companion of yours, I would’ve killed her in a heartbeat! Hahahaha!
Hayate: You son of a bitch…!
Gwen: Alright, I’ve heard enough of this!!! *puts lance away and draws another lance*
Kaeion: Hmm?
*Gwen is shown wielding the Lance Usagimaru, one of the previously undiscovered .hack//Arms*
Gwen: Let’s go, you white-haired psychopath!!! *dashes towards Kaeion again*
*Gwen clashes her .hack//Arm with Kaeion’s; the two eventually meet in a close-range stalemate*
Gwen: Grrrr…
Kaeion: Heh… You’re actually quite attractive when you’re angry…
Gwen: Spare me, buddy! I get enough harassment from Kyuzo as it is! *backs away from Kaeion* Piercing Heaven!!![/b]
*Gwen attempts to drive her lance through Kaeion in an upwards motion, but he leaps a few feet back, dodges Gwen’s attack, and even snatches the Lance Usagimaru away from her*
Gwen: *gasp*
Kaeion: Worthless scum!!! How dare you wield this lance in such a manner!!! You know NOTHING about the .hack//Arms, and are therefore UNWORTHY!!!
*in a swift thrust, Kaeion ends Gwen’s life with a single attack*
Gwen: *deep gasp*
*Gwen falls over onto the ground, her PC body turned to a grayscale*
Kaeion: Hmph!
: Better pay attention, K-boy!
*Kaeion looks up to see Kyuzo send a wall of sharp cards down at him*
Kaeion: NOT SO EASY!!!
*using the Lance Usagimaru, Kaeion cuts through the card wall, causing cards to fly everywhere in the cathedral; Kyuzo closes his eyes and shields himself with his arms when cards fly at him; when he reopens his eyes, he sees the Lance Usagimaru flying at him as well; unable to counter, the lance pierces his chest*
Kyuzo: *deep gasp, coughs up blood*
*as with Gwen, Kyuzo falls onto the ground and his PC body turns to a grayscale*
Kyuzo: Haru…hi…
Kaeion: Utterly pathetic…! …Hmm?
*Kaeion looks over at Hayate, who, after seeing his fellow Factor Users go down in mere seconds, was too scared to move*
Hayate: … *gulp*
Kaeion: No way… You’re frightened? Ha! And you call yourself the scion of the Machinator!?
Hayate: (No… I’m not afraid… I’m not afraid…!) *clenches fists* “Twin moons, shine down!” …Huh!? I said “twin moons, shine down!!!” …What the hell!? Why isn’t anything happening?!?
Kaeion: It’s your fear, boy! Your fear of dying is interfering with your link to Gorre!
Hayate: Dammit! “TWIN MOONS, SHINE--!!!”
*just then, a sudden shock is sent through Hayate’s body, causing him to fall to his knees*
Hayate: Gah! …Dammit… Why is this happening now, of all times…?”
Kaeion: *begins walking forward* You put up such a tough front, but deep down, you’re nothing but a scared little boy… It makes me wonder why Gorre chose a weakling like you…
Hayate: Grrrr… *stands up* D-Don’t underestimate me! *draws Vorpal Blade*
Kaeion: Just one blade sword? The last time we faced off, you wielded TWO blade swords.
Hayate: One blade sword’s all I need to kick your ass!
Kaeion: There’s that oh-so-transparent front again… *draws broadsword* …Let’s see you back those words up, boy!
Hayate: My name… *dashes at Kaeion* …is Hayate!!!
*Hayate and Kaeion clash blade sword with broadsword and the clashing of their weapons echoes through the cathedral; Hayate eventually backs away from Kaeion, exhausted*
Hayate: *panting*
Kaeion: I think it’s time I finished this meaningless battle… *readies broadsword*
Hayate: …
*just then, a Lei Zas spell whizzes past Hayate’s head and strikes Kaeion, sending him flying back into the altar*
Kaeion: Agh!!!
Hayate: What the!?
: Hayate! You alright!?
*Hayate looks back to see Orion and the others standing by the cathedral doors with their weapons drawn*
Hayate: You guys! What are you doing here!?
Miharu: Did you really think we’d let you have all the fun?
Hayate: I told you not to come here!
Coolidge: So, what, you wanted us to just abandon you?
Hayate: That’s not--!
Orion: We’re your friends, Hayate.
Usa-chan: And we’ll always be there to back you up…whether you like it or not! Hahaha!
Hayate: You guys…
Kaeion: As much as I’d hate to interrupt your little “after-school special”…
Hayate: *gasp*
Kaeion: *dusts self off* …I’m afraid if I listen to any more of this, I might vomit.
Izumi: Tch! Talk about rude!
Kaeion: Enough games… *draws broadsword* If you insist on interfering, then I’ll send you all to the next world!
Neon: Pretty big talk from someone who hides behind a stupid bracelet!
Kaeion: Yeah, it seems we’re all big on talk today, aren’t we…? Well, I for one… *dashes towards Glaive LeGable* …have had enough of talking for one day!!!
Orion: Glaive LeGable, attack!!!
All: CHARGE!!!!!
*Hayate simply watches as his friends charge forward to face off against Kaeion; after a few minutes of fighting at close range, they begin to fall one-by-one*
Neon: Gah…!
Hayate: …Why…?
Usa-chan: AAAHHH!!!!
Hayate: …They know they’ll lose, so why…?
Coolidge: Urgh!!!
Hayate: …Why do they fight a battle they can’t win…?
Miharu: Agh!!!
Hayate: …Please…stop…
Orion: Huuurrrggghhh!!!
Hayate: …I don’t want them to die…
Izumi: GAAAAAHHHHH!!!!
Hayate: *gasp* (Izumi…!!!)
*Kaeion is seen standing above a weakened Izumi, holding his broadsword*
Kaeion: Hehehe… I must say, you’ve managed to entertain me for quite a bit…
*Kaeion’s broadsword disappears and a black bracelet appears around his right wrist*
Kaeion: But this… *aims bracelet at Izumi* …is where it ends.
*Izumi closes her eyes and waits for the end*
Kaeion: Data…!
Hayate: PhaLei Zas!!![/b]
*just before Kaeion fires his Data Drain blast, he’s struck by another white laser beam, sending him flying into the altar again*
Kaeion: Aah…!
*Izumi reopens her eyes and sees Hayate standing above her, holding the Vorpal Blade*
Izumi: Ha…yate…
Hayate: You’re right, Kaeion… This is where it ends… But I’m gonna be the one to end it…
*Hayate positions his bladeless hand behind him and pulls another blade sword out of subspace, but it wasn’t the Flamberge; it was a thin, ornate sword decorated in gold*
Izumi: …Wow…
Hayate: Meet the instrument of your demise, Kaeion – the Caliburn!
*the day before, in Raven’s @home…*
*Hayate prepares to leave the Serpent of Lore, when…*
Endrance: …Oh! Wait a moment, Hayate!
Hayate: *turns around* Hmm? What is it, Endrance?
Endrance: Catch.
*Endrance tosses the Caliburn to Hayate, who catches it awkwardly*
Gwen: Whoa… Nice blade!
Hayate: …Is this for me?
Endrance: Yes. It’s called the “Caliburn”. It was graciously donated to us by a female player named Saber.
Hayate: Is this…Saber…a Factor User too?
Endrance: No. But she sympathizes with our efforts a great deal.
Hayate: Alright, but… Why me?
Kyuzo: And why not me!?
Endrance: I recall you have a skill that allows you to merge any other blade sword with the Vorpal Blade. Therefore, you’ll be able to make the most use of it. Be sure to put Saber’s donation to good use.
Hayate: I will. *looks down at the Caliburn*
Kyuzo: *crosses arms* (Hmph! Why does Hayate get all the cool stuff?)
*Hayate is shown wielding the Caliburn and Vorpal Blade*
Kaeion: *stands up* “Instrument of my demise”? Hahaha. I didn’t realize you had such a broad vocabulary, boy. *draws broadsword* …Let’s finish this.
Hayate: With pleasure! *dashes forward* Lateral Moon!!!
*with amazing speed, Hayate crouches down near Kaeion, slashes him up into the air, and air-juggles him for a few seconds before slamming him down onto the ground*
Kaeion: Gah!!! *coughs*
Hayate: Whoa… This thing packs a lot of punch!
Kaeion: *gets to his feet* You know something, Machinator…? *generates black bracelet* I think I’ve toyed with you for long enough!!!
Hayate: Uh-oh…!
Kaeion: *aims bracelet up* Drain Arc!!!
*Kaeion fires several tendrils of data into the air, all of which are aimed at Hayate and his friends*
Hayate: This is bad… Wait! The Tempestua Sword! It’s my only chance!
*Hayate concentrates his energies and slams the Caliburn and Vorpal Blade together, unleashing a massive burst of light*
Kaeion: *shielding eyes* Aah! What now!?
*several thin streams of lightning are seen emerging from the blinding light, each one striking one of the data tendrils; when the light fades, Hayate is seen holding not a different blade; it was just as big as the Tempestua Sword, but instead it was light-blue with several streaks of silver running along its side; additionally, Hayate’s right shoulder blade now sported a small angel wing with gold feathers*
Hayate: Whoa-ho-ho! This is awesome!
Kaeion: So, the Machinator has a few more tricks up his sleeve! Big deal! *aims hand* I have a few tricks left as well! Ani Gandr!
*Kaeion aims his index finger at Hayate, from which he fires a small, quick bullet of darkness; Hayate leaps up into the air just in time to dodge the bullet; Hayate soon finds himself hovering in midair*
Hayate: Wow…! My PC body’s as light as a feather!
Kaeion: Tch! *aims finger* Ani Gandr!
*Kaeion fires a continuous volley of dark bullets at Hayate, who flies around the cathedral dodging them; eventually, he stops firing due to lack of energy*
Kaeion: Grrrr…
Hayate: This ends now!
*in one fell swoop, Hayate soars down at Kaeion and skewers his body with the sword mounted on his arm*
Kaeion: ARRRRGGGGHHHH!!!!
*Hayate pulls his sword out of Kaeion’s body and returns the weapon to its dual blade sword state; Kaeion stumbles back, holding his hand to his chest wound*
Kaeion: *wheezing* I…underestimated you…Machinator… That won’t happen again… *vanishes*
Hayate: H-Hey! We’re not done yet!
Kaeion’s Voice: Oh, don’t worry… We’ll meet again soon, little Gorre… You can count on that… Hahaha…
Hayate: …Tch.
*one hour later, in the Serpent of Lore…*
Haseo: …I see. So that’s what happened.
Kyuzo: Yeah, real nice going, twerp! You let ‘Kaipon’ get away!
Hayate: I did my best, alright!? Besides, you’re one to talk, Mr. One-Hit-KO!!!
Kyuzo: You wanna start something, shorty?!?
Gwen: SHUT UP, DAMMIT!!!
Kyuzo: …Hmph.
Hayate: …
Ovan: At any rate, I doubt we’ll see much action from the K-Anomaly for the time being.
Haseo: Indeed. Thanks to Hayate, the K-Anomaly – or rather “Kaeion” – has been dealt a great blow. He’ll need time to heal his wounds. A job well done today, everyone. You’re dismissed.
All: Yes, sir.
*Hayate, Kyuzo, and Gwen all leave the Serpent of Lore*
Haseo: …Ovan, Endrance, probe over every square inch of The World. I want Kaeion found before his wounds are fully healed.
Endrance: What will you do?
Haseo: …I need to take a walk. *steps out of the Serpent of Lore*
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
Orion: We may not have found a .hack//Arm today, but Glaive LeGable won’t waver. Tomorrow’s another day, as they say.
Neon: Heh. You’re taking today’s defeat pretty well, Orion.
Orion: “A defeat is nothing but a victory that has not yet been grasped.” I’ve lived by that philosophy ever since I’ve started playing The World.
Miharu: Sounds catchy.
Coolidge: Really? It’s kinda corny if you ask me.
Miharu: Well… No one asked you!
Coolidge: Eeeep!
*moments later, Hayate walks in*
Izumi: …Oh. Welcome home, Hayate.
Hayate: Thanks…
Usa-chan: Something wrong?
Hayate: …I’m sorry, everyone.
Orion: Hayate?
Neon: What’s with you all of a sudden?
Hayate: About the way I acted earlier. I guess I’ve always thought that, if I handle everything by myself, no one else can get hurt.
Izumi: That’s what friends are for, Hayate – they’re there so that you DON’T have to handle everything by yourself.
Hayate: I know. Thanks.
Coolidge: …If anyone says the words “group hug”, I’m leaving.
All: …Shut up, Coolidge.
*meanwhile, in Mac Anu’s Alchemy District, Haseo is seen walking alone with his hands pocketed; as soon as he steps onto the bridge, he stops walking and sees someone standing on the other end of the bridge*
Haseo: …I had a feeling you were the one who sent me that short mail.
Haseo: A job well done today, everyone. You’re dismissed.
All: Yes, sir.
*Hayate, Kyuzo, and Gwen all leave the Serpent of Lore*
Haseo: … *BEEP, BEEP!* (Hmm? A short mail? “Come to the Alchemy District. We need to talk. From, ‘Old Hag’.” …Can it be?) Ovan, Endrance, probe over every square inch of The World. I want Kaeion found before his wounds are fully healed.
Endrance: What will you do?
Haseo: …I need to take a walk.
Haseo: That ‘old hag’ remark gave you away. How long has it been? 7 years?
Pi: It certainly has been a while, hasn’t it…Haseo?
~ Next Time on Infected! ~
Miharu: “Hotlisters”? What’s that?
~*~*~*~
Neon: Don’t you dare touch her!
~*~*~*~
Hayate: No way… He’s a…
~*~*~*~
Neon: This is the end for you… *clenches fist* “Born from the tree of mana!”
29th Phase: Hotlister Havoc![/color]
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
*the members of Glaive LeGable are seen sitting around with Hayate the only one standing up – just like the moments before Hayate left the guild*
Hayate: …
Izumi: …
Neon: …
Usa-chan: …
Coolidge: …
Miharu: … *gulp*
Orion: Hayate… I didn’t expect to see you back in this @home quite so soon…
Hayate: Yeah… To tell you the truth, neither did I…
*the day before, in Raven’s @home…*
Haseo: …So, what’s this “solution to our dilemma” you have, Ovan?
Ovan: Now that the members of Glaive LeGable have seen Hayate’s factor ability firsthand, I propose that we have Hayate return to the guild…and tell them everything. The factors, the K-Anomaly, everything.
Haseo: Ovan, are you out of your mind!? Do you realize what would happen if word got out about us and what we’re doing!?
Ovan: We’ve already entrusted the safety of the .hack//Arms to the guildmaster of Glaive LeGable. Entrusting our secrets to them would be no different.
Haseo: No! Absolutely not! I won’t allow it! The members of Glaive LeGable have already seen too much!
Ovan: …Haseo.
Haseo: What now!?
Ovan: … *flashes a fake smile* …Trust me.
Haseo: *sweatdrop* …Ovan, have I mentioned how much that fake smile of yours creeps me out?
Endrance: …I can vouch for that…
Ovan: Hear me out. Kyuzo, Gwen, and Ren are all members of guilds. Because they’re constantly sent out into the field by their respective guildmasters – or, in Kyuzo’s case, sent out into the field by discretion – they’re able to keep a sharp eye out for Data Bugs and potential Factor Users. I’m merely proposing that we have Hayate do the same. And since the members of Glaive LeGable are now aware of the existence of players like Hayate, entrusting them with the secret of the K-Anomaly and Factor Users seems like the most prudent option.
Haseo: And should those secrets begin to circulate around The World? What option would we have then?
Ovan: …I’ll take full responsibility.
Haseo: … *turns to Hayate* …Very well. We’ll have Hayate return to the Glaive LeGable guild for the time being. He’ll tell them everything. If they’re trustworthy enough to protect the .hack//Arms, hopefully they’ll be trustworthy enough to also keep their mouths shut.
Hayate: …
Orion: Hmm…
Coolidge: *jaw hanging down* You’re serious!!! Something like THAT’S been going on this whole time?!?
Usa-chan: Data Bugs… Factor Users… The K-Anomaly… It all sounds so scary…!
Hayate: That’s why it’s important that we watch our step from now on, or else…
Kyuzo: …Wait for me, Haruhi…
Hayate: …
Orion: At any rate… *stands up* …it pleases me to see everyone together again. Glaive LeGable is whole once more.
Miharu: Yeah! Welcome back, Hayate! To be honest, it got pretty quiet without you.
Hayate: Hehehe… Thanks, Miharu.
Neon: So, Orion… What happens next?
Orion: *closes eyes and smirks* Hmph… Do you have to ask? *opens eyes* It’s time to double our efforts! Glaive LeGable will never rest until all of the .hack//Arms have been found!
All: RIGHT!!!
*…Samurai 7 @home…*
Claire: …Okay, is everyone clear on this?
Jack: Yup! Let’s do it!
Samekh: *sigh* If we must…
Claire: Piros, this is a simple task, so not even you can mess it up. But just to be on the safe side… DON’T MESS IT UP!!!
Piros: *salutes* You can count on me!
*the @home entrance slowly creaks open*
Claire: Oh! Here he comes! Places, everyone!
*when Kyuzo enters the @home, he sees Claire, Piros, Samekh, and Jack Russell lined up in a row, on their knees*
All: *bows* Welcome home, Master Kyuzo!
Kyuzo: *blinks* …What the hell is this?
Jack: *looks up at Kyuzo* Uh… Well, boss, you were kinda down about what happened to Haruhi, so we decided to welcome you home the same way she does…
Kyuzo: …
Claire: *gulp* (Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea after all…)
Kyuzo: … *smile* Thank you, everyone. Sorry for worrying you.
Piros: Hehehe! No problem, boss! …Did I mention this was all my idea?
Claire: SAY THAT AGAIN?!?
Piros: Kidding, kidding! Hahaha!!!
Kyuzo: *walks up to Samekh* …Have you found anything out?
Samekh: Yes, Mr. Kyuzo. *stands up* I’ve been tracking the wandering AI’s movements, and I’ve discovered that he mostly appears in and around Lost Grounds. Almost as if he’s…searching for something.
Kyuzo: *clenches fists* Yeah, well… When I get through with him, he’s gonna want to search for a stretcher!
Samekh: I’ve also discovered something else. Something a bit more… disconcerting.
Kyuzo: What’s that?
Samekh: I first picked up on it when the AI used Data Drain on Haruhi.
*images of Haruhi’s PC body vanishing in his arms float in Kyuzo’s mind*
Kyuzo: …
Samekh: Oh! I apologize. I didn’t intend to be so blunt.
Kyuzo: …It’s fine. Go on.
Samekh: *ahem* As I was saying, when the AI used Data Drain on Haruhi and absorbed her PC data, I picked up rapid oscillations in his own data, almost as if absorbing Haruhi had rewritten some of the data flowing through the AI.
Kyuzo: Rewritten?
Samekh: Yes. The change wasn’t too noticeable, but there was a change nonetheless.
Kyuzo: …Tch.
*…Raven @home, Serpent of Lore…*
Endrance: Data bug activity rising! K-Anomaly’s presence confirmed!
Haseo: Where is it located this time!?
Ovan: Tracing… It’s at Hulle Granz Cathedral!
Haseo: Send word to the Factor Users! NOW!!
*minutes later, the members of Glaive LeGable are seen leaving their @home*
Usa-chan: Alright! Now that Hayate’s back, where should we head first?
Hayate: *BEEP, BEEP!* …Hulle Granz. Understood.
Miharu: You say something, Hayate? It sounded like you said “Hulle Granz”.
Hayate: Huh!? N-No, I didn’t!
Orion: Well, we never found a .hack//Arm at Hulle Granz, so that does seem a logical choice.
Coolidge: Alright then! Glaive LeGable, move out!
*as everyone else begins walking off, Hayate clenches his fists*
Hayate: STOP!!!
All: *looking back at Hayate* Huh?
Izumi: What’s the matter, Hayate?
Hayate: You can’t go to Hulle Granz! It’s not…safe…
Neon: …The K-Anomaly is there, isn’t it?
Hayate: …Listen, you guys. You can’t take on the K-Anomaly. You’ll die if you do. I mean, Haruhi already… *gasps, covers mouth*
Miharu: Did you just say Haruhi? As in Samurai 7’s Haruhi?
Usa-chan: You mean…!
Hayate: …
Coolidge: Holy crap…
Hayate: Well… Now you know. So you see? This is exactly why I have to take on the K-Anomaly alone. Only the Factor Users and I can fight him on equal terms.
Izumi: We’re not letting you fight by yourself, Hayate! We’re your friends and we--
Hayate: THIS ISN’T A DISCUSSION!!!
Izumi: *gasp*
Neon: Whoa…
Hayate: I’m going to Hulle Granz to meet up with the other Factor Users. Don’t follow me! *runs off towards the dome*
Orion: …Hayate…
*Hayate eventually reaches the large bridge separating Mac Anu’s dome from its Central District*
Hayate: (This is for the best… If Orion and the others don’t fight the K-Anomaly, they can’t fall into comas… This is the only way to protect them…)
*he soon runs past a Tribal Grappler with long, pink hair leaning against the edge of the bridge*
Grappler: …Out of the Eight Phases of Morganna, the Machinator is perhaps the most unstable…
Hayate: *stops running* Huh? *looks back at the Tribal Grappler* What did you say?
Grappler: *stands up straight and straightens glasses* So… You’re the one who was chosen by Gorre.
Hayate: …Who are you? How do you know about the Eight Phases?
Grappler: Oh, please. I know more about the Eight Phases than you could ever hope to understand.
Hayate: Grrrr…
Pi: Oh, pardon my manners. I didn’t answer your first question. You can call me Pi.
Hayate: Pi, huh…?
Pi: …Well?
Hayate: Hmm?
Pi: I gave you my name. The least you can do is give me yours.
Hayate: Oh. I’m Hayate.
Pi: Hayate… The scion of Gorre, the Machinator… The most volatile of the Eight Phases…
Hayate: What do you mean volatile?
Pi: I mean exactly what I said. You should know that there are two sides to every Factor. And your Factor is a never-ending struggle between those two sides.
Hayate: …I don’t get it…
Pi: No, I suppose you wouldn’t. You’re still just a child after all.
Hayate: Child!?
Pi: *turns away from Hayate* A little warning, boy – Try not to lose yourself to Gorre’s influence. If you do, your next battle…will be against your own mind and soul. *walks away*
Hayate: Who the heck was…? …Oh! Hulle Granz! The K-Anomaly! I’d better get moving! *runs towards the dome*
*D Hidden Forbidden Holy Ground ~ Hulle Granz Cathedral*
*Kaeion is seen standing on top of the altar with his arms spread to his sides and his eyes closed*
Kaeion: “…Returns to nothing, this world of shadowless ones… Never to return, the shadowed one, who quests for the Twilight Dragon…”
*his body begins to give off a faint purple aura*
Kaeion: Oh, mighty Althena… I can feel your warmth… Rest assured, I shall awaken you soon… Hmm?
*Kaeion then turns around to see Hayate, Gwen, and Kyuzo standing by the cathedral doors*
Kyuzo: Talkin’ to your imaginary friend there, K-Anomaly? Hehehe!
Kaeion: *steps down from the altar* …Kaeion.
Gwen: Say what now?
Kaeion: My name…is Kaeion.
Hayate: *looks at Gwen* I thought this thing couldn’t speak in coherent sentences.
Gwen: And it looks different than last time.
Kaeion: *eye twitches* …I’d appreciate it if you didn’t refer to me as a “thing” or an “it”.
Gwen: You’re in no position to make suggestions, pal!
Kaeion: *smirk* Is that so? How about… *draws broadsword* …now!?
Hayate: A broadsword?!? What is this guy, an Assault Ace?!?
Kyuzo: …
Samekh: When the AI used Data Drain on Haruhi and absorbed her PC data, I picked up rapid oscillations in his own data, almost as if absorbing Haruhi had rewritten some of the data flowing through the AI. The change wasn’t too noticeable, but there was a change nonetheless.
Kyuzo: (…So this is what he meant…) I don’t care WHAT job class he is! *draws blade sword* Alright, ‘Kyson’ or whatever the hell your name is, give Haruhi back and I won’t have to slice your arms and legs off!!!
Kaeion: Oh, yeah… Your friend, the Valiant Archer… Her data was especially delectable… Hehehe…
Kyuzo: WRONG ANSWER!!! *dashes towards Kaeion*
Hayate: K-Kyuzo, wait!
Kyuzo: *leaps up* RENGEKI: DEVIL SWORD!!!!!
*Kyuzo plunges down onto Kaeion with an almost never-ending flurry of blade slashes, which Kaeion deflects with his broadsword; eventually, Kaeion swings the sword at amazing speed to send Kyuzo flying and crashing into the cathedral doors*
Kaeion: Is that all you’ve got? If you want to save your friend that badly, I’d expected more than this.
Kyuzo: D-Damn you…to hell…
Gwen: Holy crap! What’s with this guy!? He’s wielding that broadsword as if it were a Shinobi dagger!
Kaeion: *puts broadsword away* Wondrous, isn’t it?
Gwen: You want wondrous!? *draws lance and dashes towards Kaeion* I’ll show you wondrous! Omni Scarlet Thrust!!!
*Gwen fires a multitude of red needle-like shots from her lance; Kaeion begins to slowly walk forward, and the needle-like shots appear to go through him*
Gwen: WHAT THE HELL?!?
Kaeion: Such poor showmanship from the scion of Tarvos… *draws a certain pair of dual swords*
Hayate: *gasp*
*Kaeion is shown wielding the Spin Natsume dual swords*
Hayate: Those dual swords… Those are Tsukiyomi’s dual swords! What did you do to Tsukiyomi!?
Kaeion: Settle down, Machinator – your friend isn’t dead. I just deemed her…unworthy…to wield weapons like these. However…
Hayate: Hmm?
Kaeion: …had I known she was a companion of yours, I would’ve killed her in a heartbeat! Hahahaha!
Hayate: You son of a bitch…!
Gwen: Alright, I’ve heard enough of this!!! *puts lance away and draws another lance*
Kaeion: Hmm?
*Gwen is shown wielding the Lance Usagimaru, one of the previously undiscovered .hack//Arms*
Gwen: Let’s go, you white-haired psychopath!!! *dashes towards Kaeion again*
*Gwen clashes her .hack//Arm with Kaeion’s; the two eventually meet in a close-range stalemate*
Gwen: Grrrr…
Kaeion: Heh… You’re actually quite attractive when you’re angry…
Gwen: Spare me, buddy! I get enough harassment from Kyuzo as it is! *backs away from Kaeion* Piercing Heaven!!![/b]
*Gwen attempts to drive her lance through Kaeion in an upwards motion, but he leaps a few feet back, dodges Gwen’s attack, and even snatches the Lance Usagimaru away from her*
Gwen: *gasp*
Kaeion: Worthless scum!!! How dare you wield this lance in such a manner!!! You know NOTHING about the .hack//Arms, and are therefore UNWORTHY!!!
*in a swift thrust, Kaeion ends Gwen’s life with a single attack*
Gwen: *deep gasp*
*Gwen falls over onto the ground, her PC body turned to a grayscale*
Kaeion: Hmph!
: Better pay attention, K-boy!*Kaeion looks up to see Kyuzo send a wall of sharp cards down at him*
Kaeion: NOT SO EASY!!!
*using the Lance Usagimaru, Kaeion cuts through the card wall, causing cards to fly everywhere in the cathedral; Kyuzo closes his eyes and shields himself with his arms when cards fly at him; when he reopens his eyes, he sees the Lance Usagimaru flying at him as well; unable to counter, the lance pierces his chest*
Kyuzo: *deep gasp, coughs up blood*
*as with Gwen, Kyuzo falls onto the ground and his PC body turns to a grayscale*
Kyuzo: Haru…hi…
Kaeion: Utterly pathetic…! …Hmm?
*Kaeion looks over at Hayate, who, after seeing his fellow Factor Users go down in mere seconds, was too scared to move*
Hayate: … *gulp*
Kaeion: No way… You’re frightened? Ha! And you call yourself the scion of the Machinator!?
Hayate: (No… I’m not afraid… I’m not afraid…!) *clenches fists* “Twin moons, shine down!” …Huh!? I said “twin moons, shine down!!!” …What the hell!? Why isn’t anything happening?!?
Kaeion: It’s your fear, boy! Your fear of dying is interfering with your link to Gorre!
Hayate: Dammit! “TWIN MOONS, SHINE--!!!”
*just then, a sudden shock is sent through Hayate’s body, causing him to fall to his knees*
Hayate: Gah! …Dammit… Why is this happening now, of all times…?”
Kaeion: *begins walking forward* You put up such a tough front, but deep down, you’re nothing but a scared little boy… It makes me wonder why Gorre chose a weakling like you…
Hayate: Grrrr… *stands up* D-Don’t underestimate me! *draws Vorpal Blade*
Kaeion: Just one blade sword? The last time we faced off, you wielded TWO blade swords.
Hayate: One blade sword’s all I need to kick your ass!
Kaeion: There’s that oh-so-transparent front again… *draws broadsword* …Let’s see you back those words up, boy!
Hayate: My name… *dashes at Kaeion* …is Hayate!!!
*Hayate and Kaeion clash blade sword with broadsword and the clashing of their weapons echoes through the cathedral; Hayate eventually backs away from Kaeion, exhausted*
Hayate: *panting*
Kaeion: I think it’s time I finished this meaningless battle… *readies broadsword*
Hayate: …
*just then, a Lei Zas spell whizzes past Hayate’s head and strikes Kaeion, sending him flying back into the altar*
Kaeion: Agh!!!
Hayate: What the!?
: Hayate! You alright!?*Hayate looks back to see Orion and the others standing by the cathedral doors with their weapons drawn*
Hayate: You guys! What are you doing here!?
Miharu: Did you really think we’d let you have all the fun?
Hayate: I told you not to come here!
Coolidge: So, what, you wanted us to just abandon you?
Hayate: That’s not--!
Orion: We’re your friends, Hayate.
Usa-chan: And we’ll always be there to back you up…whether you like it or not! Hahaha!
Hayate: You guys…
Kaeion: As much as I’d hate to interrupt your little “after-school special”…
Hayate: *gasp*
Kaeion: *dusts self off* …I’m afraid if I listen to any more of this, I might vomit.
Izumi: Tch! Talk about rude!
Kaeion: Enough games… *draws broadsword* If you insist on interfering, then I’ll send you all to the next world!
Neon: Pretty big talk from someone who hides behind a stupid bracelet!
Kaeion: Yeah, it seems we’re all big on talk today, aren’t we…? Well, I for one… *dashes towards Glaive LeGable* …have had enough of talking for one day!!!
Orion: Glaive LeGable, attack!!!
All: CHARGE!!!!!
*Hayate simply watches as his friends charge forward to face off against Kaeion; after a few minutes of fighting at close range, they begin to fall one-by-one*
Neon: Gah…!
Hayate: …Why…?
Usa-chan: AAAHHH!!!!
Hayate: …They know they’ll lose, so why…?
Coolidge: Urgh!!!
Hayate: …Why do they fight a battle they can’t win…?
Miharu: Agh!!!
Hayate: …Please…stop…
Orion: Huuurrrggghhh!!!
Hayate: …I don’t want them to die…
Izumi: GAAAAAHHHHH!!!!
Hayate: *gasp* (Izumi…!!!)
*Kaeion is seen standing above a weakened Izumi, holding his broadsword*
Kaeion: Hehehe… I must say, you’ve managed to entertain me for quite a bit…
*Kaeion’s broadsword disappears and a black bracelet appears around his right wrist*
Kaeion: But this… *aims bracelet at Izumi* …is where it ends.
*Izumi closes her eyes and waits for the end*
Kaeion: Data…!
Hayate: PhaLei Zas!!![/b]
*just before Kaeion fires his Data Drain blast, he’s struck by another white laser beam, sending him flying into the altar again*
Kaeion: Aah…!
*Izumi reopens her eyes and sees Hayate standing above her, holding the Vorpal Blade*
Izumi: Ha…yate…
Hayate: You’re right, Kaeion… This is where it ends… But I’m gonna be the one to end it…
*Hayate positions his bladeless hand behind him and pulls another blade sword out of subspace, but it wasn’t the Flamberge; it was a thin, ornate sword decorated in gold*
Izumi: …Wow…
Hayate: Meet the instrument of your demise, Kaeion – the Caliburn!
*the day before, in Raven’s @home…*
*Hayate prepares to leave the Serpent of Lore, when…*
Endrance: …Oh! Wait a moment, Hayate!
Hayate: *turns around* Hmm? What is it, Endrance?
Endrance: Catch.
*Endrance tosses the Caliburn to Hayate, who catches it awkwardly*
Gwen: Whoa… Nice blade!
Hayate: …Is this for me?
Endrance: Yes. It’s called the “Caliburn”. It was graciously donated to us by a female player named Saber.
Hayate: Is this…Saber…a Factor User too?
Endrance: No. But she sympathizes with our efforts a great deal.
Hayate: Alright, but… Why me?
Kyuzo: And why not me!?
Endrance: I recall you have a skill that allows you to merge any other blade sword with the Vorpal Blade. Therefore, you’ll be able to make the most use of it. Be sure to put Saber’s donation to good use.
Hayate: I will. *looks down at the Caliburn*
Kyuzo: *crosses arms* (Hmph! Why does Hayate get all the cool stuff?)
*Hayate is shown wielding the Caliburn and Vorpal Blade*
Kaeion: *stands up* “Instrument of my demise”? Hahaha. I didn’t realize you had such a broad vocabulary, boy. *draws broadsword* …Let’s finish this.
Hayate: With pleasure! *dashes forward* Lateral Moon!!!
*with amazing speed, Hayate crouches down near Kaeion, slashes him up into the air, and air-juggles him for a few seconds before slamming him down onto the ground*
Kaeion: Gah!!! *coughs*
Hayate: Whoa… This thing packs a lot of punch!
Kaeion: *gets to his feet* You know something, Machinator…? *generates black bracelet* I think I’ve toyed with you for long enough!!!
Hayate: Uh-oh…!
Kaeion: *aims bracelet up* Drain Arc!!!
*Kaeion fires several tendrils of data into the air, all of which are aimed at Hayate and his friends*
Hayate: This is bad… Wait! The Tempestua Sword! It’s my only chance!
*Hayate concentrates his energies and slams the Caliburn and Vorpal Blade together, unleashing a massive burst of light*
Kaeion: *shielding eyes* Aah! What now!?
*several thin streams of lightning are seen emerging from the blinding light, each one striking one of the data tendrils; when the light fades, Hayate is seen holding not a different blade; it was just as big as the Tempestua Sword, but instead it was light-blue with several streaks of silver running along its side; additionally, Hayate’s right shoulder blade now sported a small angel wing with gold feathers*
Hayate: Whoa-ho-ho! This is awesome!
Kaeion: So, the Machinator has a few more tricks up his sleeve! Big deal! *aims hand* I have a few tricks left as well! Ani Gandr!
*Kaeion aims his index finger at Hayate, from which he fires a small, quick bullet of darkness; Hayate leaps up into the air just in time to dodge the bullet; Hayate soon finds himself hovering in midair*
Hayate: Wow…! My PC body’s as light as a feather!
Kaeion: Tch! *aims finger* Ani Gandr!
*Kaeion fires a continuous volley of dark bullets at Hayate, who flies around the cathedral dodging them; eventually, he stops firing due to lack of energy*
Kaeion: Grrrr…
Hayate: This ends now!
*in one fell swoop, Hayate soars down at Kaeion and skewers his body with the sword mounted on his arm*
Kaeion: ARRRRGGGGHHHH!!!!
*Hayate pulls his sword out of Kaeion’s body and returns the weapon to its dual blade sword state; Kaeion stumbles back, holding his hand to his chest wound*
Kaeion: *wheezing* I…underestimated you…Machinator… That won’t happen again… *vanishes*
Hayate: H-Hey! We’re not done yet!
Kaeion’s Voice: Oh, don’t worry… We’ll meet again soon, little Gorre… You can count on that… Hahaha…
Hayate: …Tch.
*one hour later, in the Serpent of Lore…*
Haseo: …I see. So that’s what happened.
Kyuzo: Yeah, real nice going, twerp! You let ‘Kaipon’ get away!
Hayate: I did my best, alright!? Besides, you’re one to talk, Mr. One-Hit-KO!!!
Kyuzo: You wanna start something, shorty?!?
Gwen: SHUT UP, DAMMIT!!!
Kyuzo: …Hmph.
Hayate: …
Ovan: At any rate, I doubt we’ll see much action from the K-Anomaly for the time being.
Haseo: Indeed. Thanks to Hayate, the K-Anomaly – or rather “Kaeion” – has been dealt a great blow. He’ll need time to heal his wounds. A job well done today, everyone. You’re dismissed.
All: Yes, sir.
*Hayate, Kyuzo, and Gwen all leave the Serpent of Lore*
Haseo: …Ovan, Endrance, probe over every square inch of The World. I want Kaeion found before his wounds are fully healed.
Endrance: What will you do?
Haseo: …I need to take a walk. *steps out of the Serpent of Lore*
*…Glaive LeGable @home…*
Orion: We may not have found a .hack//Arm today, but Glaive LeGable won’t waver. Tomorrow’s another day, as they say.
Neon: Heh. You’re taking today’s defeat pretty well, Orion.
Orion: “A defeat is nothing but a victory that has not yet been grasped.” I’ve lived by that philosophy ever since I’ve started playing The World.
Miharu: Sounds catchy.
Coolidge: Really? It’s kinda corny if you ask me.
Miharu: Well… No one asked you!
Coolidge: Eeeep!
*moments later, Hayate walks in*
Izumi: …Oh. Welcome home, Hayate.
Hayate: Thanks…
Usa-chan: Something wrong?
Hayate: …I’m sorry, everyone.
Orion: Hayate?
Neon: What’s with you all of a sudden?
Hayate: About the way I acted earlier. I guess I’ve always thought that, if I handle everything by myself, no one else can get hurt.
Izumi: That’s what friends are for, Hayate – they’re there so that you DON’T have to handle everything by yourself.
Hayate: I know. Thanks.
Coolidge: …If anyone says the words “group hug”, I’m leaving.
All: …Shut up, Coolidge.
*meanwhile, in Mac Anu’s Alchemy District, Haseo is seen walking alone with his hands pocketed; as soon as he steps onto the bridge, he stops walking and sees someone standing on the other end of the bridge*
Haseo: …I had a feeling you were the one who sent me that short mail.
Haseo: A job well done today, everyone. You’re dismissed.
All: Yes, sir.
*Hayate, Kyuzo, and Gwen all leave the Serpent of Lore*
Haseo: … *BEEP, BEEP!* (Hmm? A short mail? “Come to the Alchemy District. We need to talk. From, ‘Old Hag’.” …Can it be?) Ovan, Endrance, probe over every square inch of The World. I want Kaeion found before his wounds are fully healed.
Endrance: What will you do?
Haseo: …I need to take a walk.
Haseo: That ‘old hag’ remark gave you away. How long has it been? 7 years?
Pi: It certainly has been a while, hasn’t it…Haseo?
~ Next Time on Infected! ~
Miharu: “Hotlisters”? What’s that?
~*~*~*~
Neon: Don’t you dare touch her!
~*~*~*~
Hayate: No way… He’s a…
~*~*~*~
Neon: This is the end for you… *clenches fist* “Born from the tree of mana!”
29th Phase: Hotlister Havoc![/color]
