Work Text
The First Act: The Insolence of Truth
Chapter 1: Heart of the Sunrise
*BEEP* *BEEP* *BEEP* *BEEP* *BEEP* *BEEP*
“Wayne, your alarm is bloody ringing…” Called the muffled voice of a man, old but strong. “Did you forget to sleep again?” He said as the door creaked open, his tone filled with concern.Fast asleep on top of a warzone of a table was a young man. The older man shook the fast asleep person awake.“Wayne it's eight in the morning don’t you hav-” The man was cut when the youngster jumped up from an old chair he had slept on. “Ah, thanks for reminding me Uncle Theos.” The old man named Theos then stepped for the alarm then turned it off. Wayne was already heading to what to be a closet. “Sigh … Wayne staying up all night ain’t gonna do you good.” Theos told him concerned for the well being of his nephew. “Uncle, this is important, this project will surely get the approval of the professors!” Theos then looked towards the mess of a table, what seemed to be sets of wires, bolts, screws had scattered onto the table. Alongside was the messy unorganised set of assorted screwdrivers, wrenches, and other more peculiar equipment Wayne would need for his endeavours.“I know this is important to you but please take care of yourself, I mean you're even wearing your uniform till now…” Theos then sat down on the bed that stood lowly next to the chair and table. It was well organised in comparison to the mess the table was. “I would if I had time, society does not care for those who slack as time erodes them..” Theos then shrugged. “You’ll see that, there’s always time for rest in this world. No matter how little it seems.” The old looking man stood up and exited the room.“Get ready your class is starting soon.” Theos warned Wayne.Wayne got up then prepared for his class. He took a quick but warm steaming shower which relaxed his mind for the day. Took breakfast cooked by his Uncle Theos, Wayne never knew how he learned the recipes his uncle cooked but never questioned it. It was always delicious.“Glad you’re enjoying it, guess this old work can still use a pan!” Wayne’s Uncle said in a pleased and proud manner. “What’s surprising to me was that father never mentioned your background as a cook!” Theos had gotten out a little chuckle. “Well your parents never really knew what I did besides taking care of them. Such a pity you couldn’t join them in Europe, immigration and all that.” Wayne looked sombre at the mention of his parents.“Hey sport, at least you get to experience good public transport every single day.” Theos said jokingly which snapped Wayne from his downward mood making him chuckle. “I guess you're right.” Wayne replied with a smile on his face.“Anyways I have to head to class Uncle. Professor Abe’s class is about to start.” Wayne said as he finished what had been Sushi and Green Chili Wrapped in Spring Rolls Wrap. “Well good luck out there kiddo.”The door to what is Wayne’s room opened as he grabbed something from the table. What seemed to be a pair of wrist guards, the one that sat on the left has some sort of screen on the back of the hand. The other has a tube attached to the top, loaded in the tube was a stainless steel spearhead.Wayne had set off the manual unlock feature he had placed the night before, the spearhead falling onto the wooden floor with a large Thonk with a long compact rope attached onto the head of the spear. “The Grapple System seems to be working… gonna have to quickly replace it for class” Wayne thought to himself.He quickly detached the mounted launcher from the right wrist guard, and inserted what seemed to be a dome shaped attachment. As soon as Wayne had inserted it on the wrist guard’s slot the small hole along with the centre screen lit up blue.“Hey, the quick switch works!” Wayne said out loud, he then stuffed the pair of wrist guards into a bag he had hastefully snagged from his closet. “Hey Uncle see you later!” Wayne shouts a farewell to Theos as he leaves the house’s front door. “Have a good time kid!” Theos shouts back as he returns to a newspaper he had subscribed to a month prior. The house wasn't in the best of shapes. It stood out like a misaligned coloured tile on the sidewalk, old decaying walls out of concrete chipped and losing colour, the wood on the porch creaking at every step Wayne took, as well as some old windows that had seemingly shattered now boarded up. But to Wayne it was the perfect home.Wayne walked a steady pace on his way towards the Daigo Subway Station. Arriving just on time as the train pulled over on a perfect stop, Wayne rushed inside and took a seat near the entrance on one door. The countryside of Kyoto was peaceful, only the roofs of small neighbourhoods flying by like specks of dust. After observing from the window for a bit, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a phone, one that looked like it stood the test of time. Opening his phone to shine a wallpaper of what seemed to be from a video game of sorts. His eyes moved to the centre of the screen then noticed the clock conveniently placed in mobile devices to show it was about to be eight. “Still have some time, class starts at ten.” he thought to himself as he opened a social media app he usually used to pass the time.It wasn't long till the subway slowed to a complete halt at the station. Wayne quickly shoved his mobile device into his pocket, stood up, then walked out of the train. As he walked out of the train he felt an unnerving feeling, as if he was being watched. But he shrugged it off as part of his sleepless nights… He continued on walking out of what is the Kyoto Station once again feeling the cool breeze of spring hitting his face.Looking up he saw the iconic Kyoto Tower, a popular destination for tourists he usually sees meandering around while taking selfies, or photo opportunities. Wayne made it through the sea of people slipping through every crack in the crowd, eventually making it out to the streets.After turning a corner there sat an old Seven-Eleven Convenience Store, a usual stop of Wayne before taking the bus towards the university. He walked up to the advertisement plastered glass door and pulled the door open, the stiff and old hinges giving ample resistance. After walking forth for an extremely short bit, the cashier leaning on an office stool yelled. “Yo Wayne here for another drink?”“Yeah, I just need a good mood setter.” Wayne replied as he made his way to the soda dispenser avoiding the multiple sticky puddles that scatter on the floor.“You sure you're fit to go to class today? I mean you don't look too good.”“I can handle myself Kira.” Wayne walked towards the counter with a large Gulp cup filled to the brim with multiple brands of carbonated beverages. “Another ‘Suicide’ really?” Kira said in a way where she was unsurprised. “Hey, it tastes good.” Wayne replied earnestly which made Kira chuckle a bit. “Anyhow, have a good day.” As Wayne was about to leave the convenience store someone called out from behind. “Wait, Wayne is that you?” Wayne faced behind him as a girl with bright red framed glasses, a purple patterned chequered dress and a black cap laced with a white ribbon walked from one of the small claustrophobic isles.“Forgot to mention my Aunt asked me to watch her.” Kira flatly spoke but landed on deaf ears.“Sumireko?! It's been a while since me and my brother have seen you.” Wayne greeted “Ugh it's because my parents didn't want me and Andrew ‘wasting our time with occult stuff’ or something they prohibited me from going out till a few months ago!” Sumireko adjusted the ribbon on her hat then continued.“It’s nice to see you again, I can tell you’ve been busy. Man, just a few years ago you were in highschool while me and Andrew were still in grade school time really flies… say where’s your brother?” “Ah well he and the rest of my family moved to a different country…” “And they just left you here with all you have been through?!”“The work my father got couldn't allow all six of us to come over, so I volunteered to stay behind with my Uncle.” Wayne explained as he took a sip from his mother of all convenience store beverages. “Ah… well I guess you’re holding up well?” Kira then snorts at the statement then says “Take a look yourself, man looks like he hasn’t slept in I don’t know, two days?”“Ha. Ha… very funny Kira.” Wayne takes another sip of the drink.Wayne then pulled out his phone to check the time which caused him to jump. “OH SHIT MY CLASS STARTS SOON.”“Ah sorry for keeping you around for so long…” Sumireko replied in guilt. “No no, it’s fine I'll make it to class on time, see ya later Sumi.” Wayne then left the convenience store on a mad dash to the bus station.Once Wayne was well away outside Kira spoke “Interesting man isn’t he.” a small smile on her face showed. “You can say that yeah, though he’s fun like that though I met a fair share of Interesting people… well some are a stretch of being a person .” Sumireko let out a small giggle. Around a corner a figure stood. Body of a feminine build, she looked towards him with a slight grin showing an unusual shine of sharp pointed fangs.Her purple piercing eyes traced Wayne, who was sprinting across the street from her… Adjusting a white cap laced with a red ribbon on the front, she walked into the alley with an indescribable noise, she left… Wayne had luckily for him, managed to catch up to the last bus leaving for the university. Looking at his phone the digital clock seemed to scream at him that it was 9:45. “I’ll make it in time… right?” Wayne assured himself he won't be late, especially on this day.He looked at his phone’s clock inching ever closely to 10:00, the bus stopped to a halt. Wayne quickly sprang out of his seat, and rushed to the School of Engineering and Technology. Wayne made it through the gathered students on the entrance, soon passing through the gate. Plastered on top of the gate had the words written “University of Kyoto Technology Hub Day!”Wayne made his way through the lobby, rushing into the entrance. As he was being processed for entry, someone called out to him. “Oh hey Wayne, you're almost late.”“Yes, I know Hiroto…”“You should really. And I MEAN really get a hold of your sleep schedule…” Hiroto says as he takes the bag of Wayne. “You’re ID?” Wayne checks himself quickly realising something… it wasn't there. “Again? You really gotta keep track of your stuff man.. I can only let you in without it so many times.” Hiroto sighs then hands back the bag. “Alright have a good day. Oh and good luck out there!” As soon as Hiroto was finished Wayne continued his dash to class. “Hmh… I wonder if he will learn.” He wonders. His feet trampled the stone, brick, and pavement that laid before him. Time was ticking down as he made his way through the large campus. Making it through the lobby, Dashing through the expansive school park, and dashing through the blossoming falling cherry leaves as he makes ample progress to his destination.Soon he saw the building, approaching the door and pulling out his phone to see it was 9:55. “I think i'll make it, just please there won't be any disturbances…”As he entered the building, he saw a group of familiar people…One of them turns around causing him to shout “Hey boss, the twink is here!” This caused his heart to sink as the person who the guy called turned towards him. “Ah… fuck.”A tall figure turns on his heel, looking down onto Wayne. With a sinister smirk now plastered on his face their lips move to speak… “Oh hey, the smartass is here!”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The First Act: The Insolence of Truth
Chapter 2: Dreams They Rip Asunder…
“So you remembered your due?” The guy in front of him speaks as he slowly walks closer to Wayne. “I-I uh… H-hav- h-had…” Wayne stammers on his words as the person pushes Wayne towards the wall. “I’ve been warning you for the past two weeks, hand over the money you owe.” The man talks with sinister authority. “H-hey I d-on’t owe you anything Abe!” Wayne speaks in defiance, attempting to push the man named Abe away. Despite the effort the young man placed, he was no match for the bulky man who stood like a Pavise. “Heh… futile.” Abe muttered then pinned Wayne onto the wall with much more force. “Pay up… now.” orders Abe who’s malicious stare pierces Wayne's skull. After a few seconds of Wayne giving a defiant look at Abe, the latter speaks. “Looks like you finally grew a spine… too bad” Abe kicks the bag that contained Wayne's project, an audible crunch was like a spear through the aspiring techie’s heart. “You like that don't you?” Abe asks mockingly, as he and the goons that had surrounded him continue to kick the bag of the poor college student. Abe lets go of Wayne, allowing him to drop on the floor on all four. “Y-you piece of shit…” Wayne growls as he tries to tackle Abe who countered with a knee up the abdomen. Wayne fell to the floor, reeling as Abe kneels down then gives the face of the young man a hard punch. “This is what happens to those who don't know their place.” a smirk appeared on the student extortionist’s face. Before he could continue a voice shouted behind the group of bullies. “HEY, WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING!” Abe suddenly gets on his feet then orders his yes men. “Oh shit, make a break for it.” as he turns to the glass door of the building and runs. Wayne turns to look at the direction of the voice, his head beating, aching in protest. “Sir, can you hear me!?” shouts what to be an officer. “Y-yes…” weakly replies Wayne as he winces from the injuries at the hands of Abe. The officer speaks into what seems to be a radio, and pagers. “Attention to lobby, injured student requesting clinic assistance.” The person then turns to Wayne moving to a sitting position. “Can you stand Sir?” He asks as he assists the injured student. “Y-yeah, just… give me a moment.” Wayne then pushes himself to stand, stumbles but straightens himself and leans onto a wall. “M-my bag, I think he b-broke something.” Wayne asks the guard. The officer checks the bag to hear multiple pieces of metal moving inside it. “Uh, yes something is broken.” With this announcement Wayne fell down onto the ground, then tears fell on his face as he pushed through the pain. The officer gently handed the bag back to Wayne, he looked inside to see the two wrist guard controllers dented, wires and cords dangling out of the breached panels of the student’s project. Wayne's eyes lost all their luster and shine as he knelt down and softly spoke. “My entry… to the technology hub, now ruined…” the guard then now curious students and professors observing with pity painted all on their face. Wayne slumped down with a mixture of frustration, and dread. This could have been his future, to get attention from major technology companies, his project would revolutionize everything from controlling machinery, to playing games, and maybe everyday life too. But now sitting as a pile of scrap metal and wire. One of the professors, his professor and a student he recognized walked up to Wayne. “Hey kid, I know this is a big deal to you and your future but your teeth are bleeding, we have to get you to the clinic.” Wayne looks up to see two of the only few men he trusted in this campus. “Sir Haruto… Botan…” He slowly stands up, Professor Haruto assisting Wayne walk, as Botan comforts the man “It's ok Wayne, they will be put to justice…” Hours had passed as Wayne was laid onto the infirmary’s bed, left with his thoughts the memory of his work left to ruin, his plan for the future wasted still fresh on the mind of the college student tears fall as he occasionally lets out a soft whimper. As he rolls towards the left, he adjusts an ice pack that was given to him as a way to help him recover. A curious thing he overheard was the force of the punch, should have at least loosen a tooth, yet this was not the case. How long have I been here… he questions himself. As If his question was answered by something, one of the school nurses came in and told him. “The school has allowed you to take the day off, for what has happened today.“ Wayne sits up, then locks his unfocused still teary eyes to the nurse. “...O-ok.” was all Wayne could mutter at the time. The nurse gave him his bag and dismissed him, he walked out and made his way to the exit. After exiting the building he made his way to the campus lobby, walking through cherry blossoms that decorated the university’s campus. Hiroto silently checked him out, aware of what had happened to the guy. He gave Wayne a smile with a pat on the back causing him to gain a small smile as he walked towards the bus. He took a seat down next to the door as he waited for the bus to arrive at the stop. The man looked outside at the still sunny day, as if it was mocking his situation. The bus then moved, then he looked at his phone, then decided to take his mind off things by playing a game about cats attacking a base. After a few minutes of travel he arrived at the station then walked towards the convenience store he had always visited. “And then there was this girl who wore red an-” a voice was cut as the gloomy student entered the room. “Back so soon Wayne?” Kira asked. “Fucking jerks broke my project for the Technology Hub today…” He grumpily replied as he stormed to the refrigerators of the store. “Oh jeez…“ Sumireko sympathetically mumbled. “Gosh…“ Kira also took pity on the man “Had it all planned out, now this fucking bastard ruined my chances at getting a decent future after my upcoming graduation…” Wayne spoke as he came out the aisle with a bottle of sake. “3500 Yen.” Kira says, as Wayne hands over the cash. Wayne then quickly opens the bottle then chugs the whole bottle down. “Woah not even my friends from that place could drink that fast…” Sumireko says in surprise at Wayne. “You should have seen him when he drank 23 large gulp cups to get a collectible.“ whispers Kira. “That hit the spot…” Wayne says as he throws the bottle to the bin at the side of the store, nearly missing it. “I'll sit here for a… while.” He loudly mumbles as the two girls notice him falling asleep. “I really feel sorry for him…” Sumireko says. “Hey, weren't you a self absorbed brat then?” asked Kira curiously. “Uh-ehe, I learned my lesson…“ Sumireko replied, kinda embarrassed by the mention of her past self.
“Interesting… this may be harder than I thought.” mumbles the figure, adjusting a ribbon on her flowing, blonde, golden hair. Observing the fast asleep Wayne from the other side of the road. “I guess I can leave him for later~” The figure then disappears into the alley with another indescribable sound followed by purple light. Much time had passed as the three were still in the same positions they were a few hours ago, Kira bored as ever watching over her younger cousin. Sumireko on her phone, and then Wayne is still fast asleep. Well till Sumireko wakes him up. “Uh hey, you've been asleep for around three hours now it's like three in the afternoon.” “Ugh…” The groggy college student wakes up and looks at his phone then sighs. “I'll be going, thanks for waking me Sumi.” Wayne sets off then makes his way to Kyoto Station. The busy crowd has mostly disappeared as rush hour has finally long passed. The student rushed down the stairs towards the subway station, then he arrived at the ticket gates. Wayne tried to find the ticket he had bought but remembered Abe took his wallet.
I'm seriously looking forward to that man's punishment when he's caught.
Wayne pulled out his phone, and entered contacts. There he called his Uncle, the phone ringing as he waited for him to answer. “Hello kid?” Theos answers. “Hey uncle, my uh… wallet got stolen along with my ticket.” Wayne then heard an audible sigh then Theos said. “Was it that Abe again?” “Yes… “ Wayne can hear shuffling through the phone. “I'll fetch you, hang on tight kiddo.” Theos says calmly, comforting the man. Wayne then hangs up the phone then finds a seat next to a vending machine. There he sits down, thinking of the day. The sun hadn't set and he felt like sleeping for days. He was about to drift off to dream land again till he noticed a notification on his phone from an app called Discord. After opening it, it was from Botan. Botanic“@DualVolatility Hey dude are you alright I heard you went home, could i visit later?” DualVolatility“Uh, I'm busy right now. I don't feel like it…” Botanic “No worries, I'll be here if you need me alright?" DualVolatility“Thank you.”
Wayne after this interaction with his friend. He again decides to take his mind off things and surf the internet…
unaware of being watched. “fufu~ I think I'll pay him a visit later… ” grins the figure, and she observes him from what appears to be a tear in the fabric of reality adorned with two red ribbons on each side, inside countless eyes join the mysterious figure watching from the void…
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The First Act: The Insolence of Truth
Chapter 3: Selenic Sky, Melancholic Rooftop. Days had passed after the incidents, the university alongside law enforcement were able to find Abe and his cohorts but to the dismay and fury of Wayne, were only given two weeks of in school-suspension. “Bloody hell, there literally was video footage of him giving my grandson a knuckle!” furiously said Theos talking on the phone, as he walks into the now cleaned room of the young man. “Hey kid…” Theos talks to Wayne who laid on bed almost lifeless. “I know it's been hard for you but-” “Not now uncle… I don't feel like doing anything.” Wayne mumbles softly and sobs a bit after that. “Do you atleast want me to cook your favorite meal?” “Sure…” Wayne replies, then buries himself under his comforter. Theos sighs to himself, pitying the student who by now had missed four days of classes. The old man reaches into his pocket, then pulls out a slip of folded paper. “Actually… I could use someone to talk to me.” Wayne caves in to his uncle. Theos smiles as he then talks to the man sitting on his bed. “I know you've worked so hard on that project. Believe me I've also had countless works and only a few ever turned out well… but you need to keep trying no matter how much the world turns against you, even if the odds are supernaturally against you. You have to stay strong… There is always a path forward, kid.” Theos then stands up. “Oh here's another thing to cheer you up. “ “I'll leave this here as a… early birthday gift.” Theos sets down the slip of paper next to the nightstand of Wayne and turns around to leave the room. A few minutes pass as Wayne finally pulls down the covers then looks at the paper given to him. “Unlimited Drinks at Moonlit Terrace! Show the coupon to the cashier or manager to be given a whole night of drinks, it's on the house!” Wayne looking at the coupon smiles solemnly. Remembering times where he and his small group of friends having parties, or plainly drinking the abundant types of beverages they served there. A sudden hint of nostalgia strikes Wayne as he slowly gets off the bed and sits on his workbench, now filled with a sudden determination and a drop of sunk cost fallacy. “This is no longer just about my future… I have to see this through.” Wayne mumbles as he takes a close look onto the project he had so worked hard to perfect. “I think the first action in order is durability” Wayne says with a small grin, seemingly talking to himself. At the kitchen, Theos turns on the grill as he hears the sounds of Wayne once again tinkering with devices and projects. “Atta boy… don't let anyone stop you. Wayne's Uncle then finishes preparing a meal he made for the aspiring engineer. Grilled Salmon alongside special seasoning courtesy of Uncle Theos! A knock on the door rings out as Wayne suddenly realizes what he had been doing for the past two and a half hours. “Kiddo, you doing good?” the muffled voice of his Uncle speaks to him as he opens the door. Wayne opens to see Theos with a welcoming scent of his favorite dish. “It's dinner, come along!” Now at the table, Wayne is now enjoying a nice hearty meal of Grilled Salmon. “Thank you Uncle!” the now recovering man gratefully speaks. “No problem kid, oh and did you see the gift I gave you!” “Yeah I have, thank you so much Uncle!” Wayne thanks Theos yet again. “No problem kid, it's glad my message came to your head.” “You are right, this is just a minor setback. Though I still feel a little empty inside, and a little furious he got in-school suspension…“ “Don't sweat it, he's probably on watch right now.” Theos says as he neatly takes a fork full of the salmon. Wayne finishes the rest of his meal, then stands up. “I'll actually head to the bar right now.” Theos paints a small smile on his face and says “Have a good time there kiddo, you've earned it.” Wayne then walks to his room, and looks over his messy workspace. I’ll clean this before leaving , the man decided. Organizing the clutter of cut wring, tools, and pieces of metal and other parts he used for his project. I should salvage the code of the Convergence before going , Wayne thinks to himself as he presses a button on the white box, with a singular face open revealing components and wiring lighting up in a flow of different colours. Plugging in the still open USB port, Wayne opens the drive of the so called Convergence and drags what remaining files that weren't corrupted. “Damn it, this file is corrupted.” *Windows Error Sound Effect* “Augh…” It took ten mins to salvage whatever he could. “I'll fix this later… time to get a few drinks.” Wayne says to himself as he goes and readies. Taking a shower gets rid of the horrible look he had as if he was bedridden for a week. Now looking neat he decided to wear his usual attire, it was a tall pointed hat akin to those of wizards, it had a very usual feel which even Wayne's small friend group noticed. The brims and rings that surround it are an empyrean white which feels metallic, alongside a pearlescent coloured cloth underneath being held by the metallic white. On the center of the hat layed a symbol which Wayne never understood but thought it looked cool. The top clothing he had was in two pieces, a white t-shirt but on top was a gray sweater vest. He liked it as he felt that it stood out, yet kept some simplicity. Then the bottom clothing, he never really liked pants all too much, preferring the comfort of shorts. Yet despite this he always had a soft spot for the black jogger pants, which he always paired with a set of similar coloured boots. After fixing his clothing, the boy picked up his phone and once again opened the messaging application called Discord. DualVolatility@everyone [Attachment] anyone down? BotanicYoo, hell yeah! Pastabroth01coming over!!! WaffleToastSushidon't have to ask me twice.
After inviting the few friends he had, Wayne waved to his Uncle as he left them house.
I still keep having this feeling… like I'm being watched…
Across above one of the neighboring buildings the womanly figure sits, as she has now found her next move. “Hehe~ guess it's time to pay a visit~” says the mysterious woman, as she slips through the horrible gap in reality, sealing it as if nothing had ever happened… The taxi slows gently to a stop, Wayne hands over the payment in cash waving the driver a polite farewell. It's a tall building, which looks to be thirty stories high. The windows, alternating in an almost pattern of on and off. But on the top was where he was headed too, as seen by the illuminated air around the roof deck. Wayne enters through the rotating doorway, above the sign reads “Selenic Skyline.” He goes to the counter to check in for his visit and then takes the elevator to the thirtieth floor. It was a quiet journey up the rising lift, not a single person ever entered as it shot straight towards its destination. As the elevator slowed, the added weight of moving upwards slowly dissipating, Wayne pulled out the coupon he had as the door opened. He was greeted by a familiar face on the roof. “Oh Wayne!” waved a man who stood at the counter. “Sup Sebastian!” He waved to someone who he was very well familiar with. “Still rocking that hat eh?” Sebastian asked, in curiosity. “Not that I'm hating, it really fits well on you. Somehow…” “Can't just, not use a gift from my uncle!” Wayne replied, showing a small pout. “Besides, it stands out in a good way for me.” “Can't hate the irony though, An aspiring engineer that looks like a wizard!” Sebastian’s face was amused. “You have a point.” Wayne chuckles as he walks towards Sebastian and hands him over the coupon, who in turn looked in shock and awe. “Holy cow! It's been a while since some folk decided to redeem one of these.” Sebastian scans the barcode behind the coupon and continues. “Well, here ya are all drinks, and it's on the house!” He then leans into a whisper “It's an early celebration for your birthday in like two weeks isn't it.” “I guess you can say that heh” Wayne replied as he walks into the open air bar. The sky was a scenic view, Central Kyoto all in view. The countless sights of people, vehicles and different buildings around the city all come to light under the bright full moon. The engineering student walks towards the balcony where he takes in the view to think. He quickly places an order from the nearest Waitress for a cocktail, one he enjoys a lot. “One Japanese Pear please!” Wayne politely requests. He then returns to staring at the moon, his eyes occasionally shifting to the preserved palace, and Kyoto Tower. His mind turns to not only the past few days, but also all the times he had been down. He never really had friends, the ones he had as of now had only met him for half a year. His gloomy eyes flash memories of who he really stood by him, for most of his life. “Andrew what's gotten into you, are you alright?” the voice of Wayne's younger self echoes in his mind. Sniffling was a small boy who looked up and said “Big bro… someone took my allowance again…” “Don't worry we shall confront them together.” Wayne offers his hand to his younger brother, who takes it with a calm smile. Wayne's thoughts were then interrupted, saving him from flowing tears down his face. “My my~ what a lovely view isn't it” A voice of a woman softly sounds next to the college student. “It really is…” Wayne looks on yonder, his eyes still emanate a aura of sadness within. “Feeling a little down on a time like this?” the woman asks, a tone of morbid curiosity in her lips. “Kinda, yeah… it’s just that, it feels as if everyone has been pulling me down.” Wayne shifts his eyes, then head downwards. “Hmm~ it is usually like that, though it would be complete fantasy if one isn't at least being held down by a mere thread of rope. “ “That's true… thought, fantasy could have it to place extra chains on those with more than enough.” Wayne then finally faces the young lady who smiles. He noticed the unusual purple eyes, at first thinking it’s coloured contact lenses, but noticing how natural it looks. The unusual cap she wore alongside the ribbon tied in front contrasting the business suit she wore, gave her a menacing yet human feeling… “I could agree to that~” coos the young lady. “Anyways I better get going, my friends are arriving soon. Have a good day uh-” “Mari-… Yukari Yakumo.” “Have a good day Miss Yakumo.” Wayne then left with a bow. what an interesting human, he would definitely fit there… Yukari had a grin on her face, as he watched Wayne walk towards the lobby of the rooftop bar.
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The First Act: The Insolence of Truth
Chapter 4: The Otherworld It Takes You…
“Aughhh~” Was the first ‘words’ of Wayne as he woke up, a pounding head creating much discomfort to him.“I knew I shouldn’t have challenged Botan in a drinking competition…” the engineering student stood up from his bed, almost tipping over his worktable. “Heh, that Protea Prime Set was definitely worth the nausea-” Wayne rushed towards the bathroom before finishing his statement, vomiting in the toilet.“Ugh…” The man moans at the unpleasurable lingering taste of vomit in his mouth as he made his way to the kitchen.“Told yah a bunch of times to not overdrink, here made you some bread to help you with your hangover.” Theos said as the groggy Wayne lumbers into the kitchen. He goes to the fridge to grab a cup of fresh milk and pours it in a glass, chugging it down in less than five seconds.“Thanks Uncle.” Wayne, gratefully replies as Theos places a plate of freshly toasted bread on the table in front of the young man. “Be thankful someone dropped you off last night, though they just left you on the concrete.” Wayne bites into unusual pieces of bread, a small baked lump which could be eaten in just a few bites, a golden brownish top crust which flows to a yellowish white at the bottom. After swallowing he makes a remark about the piece of baked dough he ate.“Hey, these are pretty good, they are soft but also flavourful.”“Ah, I got these this morning from a bakery that makes stuff from different countries.” Theos replied. “I believe they are called ‘Pan-de-sal’? Or at least it's what they called it.“Anyways, will you go back to class this week? I heard the university is giving you reparations funded by Abe’s Parents.”“Yeah I will, last night was something I really needed thanks again uncle.” Wayne then got up then slowly walked to the sink, he turned the faucet tap then placed his plate under the falling, rushing water. For a while he washed his plate, then his utensils till they were sparkling. I'll mess around with that project, and might make a few more attachments while I’m at it. Wayne thought to himself“I’ll be in my room Uncle if you need me.” Wayne spoke as he took steps towards the room at the end of the hallway, and behind the old and creaking stairs. “Alright kid, your old man will be here if you ever need anything.” Theos smiled as he took a small sip on a freshly brewed cup of tea, returning to one of the few running physically printed newspapers he had managed to get his hands on.Wayne then took a quick steaming shower to rid himself of the smell of hangover and stale alcohol, making sure to plaster his body with soap scrubbing of the icky feeling he had felt since morning.Wayne then sat on his cleaned up workspace wearing the same sets of clothes though missing the hat, eyeing the blank and empty monitor that protrudes towards the man’s right. He reaches for the power button but places the breaks as he notices a reflection on the dim and dark monitor. He notices a woman… the same woman from last night, staring from an indescribable mess from his window, attached at the edges were those red bows seemingly floating as if they were for aesthetics.“Huh wuh?!” Wayne quickly turns around and sees nothing. “Am I still under the influence?” He muttered to himself as he made sure nobody was peaking, turned around then pressed the power button on his computer.The box of multiple wires, fans, and mechanisms light up after a dark night, turning the once lifeless screen into a controllable display. “ Sigh Time to work…” Wayne said as he started modeling an upgraded version of the Convergence on an old, but reliable software he had installed years ago. Reshaping the body and structure to create a more stable and durable gadget. He hoped his renewed effort helps with problems of durability and damage. As the time ticked forward, the ever bright beaming Sun slowly crossing the horizon. Wayne couldn't help but feel that someone was still watching him. He occasionally kept looking behind his shoulder, swearing he saw that woman he met that night Yukari… Wayne thought to himself looking behind with a suspicious face.With another sigh, He returned to the work he had been invested in for the entire day. The monotonous soft clacking as his fingers tap on the keys of his keyboard. The woman reappears for what she felt had been the tenth time this hour. She held out a fan and with a gentle, brisk flick the violet cloth of the fan unfold covering her mouth. “Interesting… he does sense something.” Yukari mumbles to herself. It had been two hours since Wayne had let his newly developing paranoia take the wheel. Now face-first onto the desk, he is suddenly jolted back to reality by a device on the far right, beeping in an assertive fashion. “WHAT DO YOU WA-... oh.” Wayne screamed as he suddenly woke up, turning to what is something precious he owned. A state-of-the-art 3D Printer. One capability was the ability for it to melt steel, allowing a coil of metal to help quickly reshape into any object adhering to the laws of physics. Looking at the brass coloured metal plate was the freshly finished, remodeled Convergence. “Time to bring this over.” He muttered to himself. Wayne then proceeded to strip the twin gloved wrist guards to the marrow of its bones. Delicately moving the Intel CPU housed within a custom made motherboard allowing the user to control it. Then he carefully placed the movement sensors, all into the new model. Following the compatibility for multiple attachments, soldering, cutting, and connecting all parts from the previously damaged iteration into the brand new ones. Once he was finished, the room smelt like fine carbon. The crisp air slowly making a entrance to his nasal cavity, causing him to let out a small cough. Wayne then walked to his window, turned the handle, then pulled his arm to the left letting fresh, clean air through. “That's enough work for today…” Wayne said, extremely worn from a full day's commitment to a passion project. He peeked his head through the open window, taking in the fresh Daigo air. I'll check if the lads are down to play some games, or perhaps finish that Deer Anime we've been putting off… Wayne thought as he sat down onto his desk, pulling in a monitor attached to a rotating arm. He then took another glance over his shoulder, seeing the serene and still air over the empty window.
I'll play some Team Fortress in the meantime…
Wayne then sighs, turning back to the screen, palm firmly on the silvery white mouse dotted with multiple holes, presenting some of its internal mechanisms to view. As he was about to boot up the video game, he was interrupted by a message more notably, it came from his phone. A firm press towards the small power button on the side, shows the notification from someone who he hadn't talked to in over two years. The tap the notification twice, entering his password then looking at the message
Andrew AikawaGot a surprise for you big bro! [Attachment]
Wayne saw the picture, his father, mother, sister, and his two brothers seemingly at Nagoya International Airport. His heart had lept, looking at the family he had missed so much, that was forced to leave him.Then another message popped up. Andrew AikawaI know you're busy with whatever you've been doing for the past two years, but just a quick heads up. We're now in Kyoto :) Wayne AikawaI thought you guys never had the time to go back and visit?! Andrew AikawaWell Pa’s got a promotion and is stationed here in Kyoto, we get to stay back here in Japan! Wayne Aikawa WOOOO!!! Andrew Aikawa On our way to Uncle's house, we'll be there soon! Wayne was more than ecstatic, his eyes flowed like a river. He cheered for the return of his family.He got up from his computer, and rushed down the hallway. The scent of Theos’ cooking like a cloud of bliss tickled Wayne's nose.“So you got your brother’s message?” Theos said with a smirk, his eyes not leaving the pan, stirring it around with a spoon. “Yeah!” Wayne cheered, as he sat on the couch. “Alright, here's some money. Go to the Domino's around the corner and grab a few boxes of pizza.” Theos handed over at least twenty-thousand Yen. Wayne then grabbed his bag of essentials, along with his hat, but also took the Convergence due to a lingering gut feeling… He soon left the house, as each step beamed with joy, as it quickly faded. As he walked on the quiet sidewalks of Daigo, he couldn't help but notice the watching feeling he had working on his project.At first, his happy mood had suppressed his ever growing paranoia, but soon he started to see the figure around the corner of his eye. I'll have to do it now, too bad no one will remember you~… Yukari thought, peeking through that gazing tear directly above Wayne. Wayne managed to get to the Pizza Parlor, paying the money for at least 3 boxes of pizzas, to be delivered shortly to his Uncle’s house.With the remaining cash, he decided to buy a few slices for himself, tucking it away in the bag he had brought along with him. Soon he started making his way back. He didn't notice but soon he had gone off the beaten path. Feeling a looming presence behind his back ever creeping closer. “I know you are following me, show yourself.” Wayne said, using up much of his inner courage.He turned to another street, looking over his shoulder at a few second intervals. Wayne then started to speed up. He then took out the Convergence then hastily equipped them on both wrists, inserting the first attachment he had made on the right side. “Taser Status: Ready” read the small interface on his wrist. He slowly walked backwards, the suspiciously empty streets intensifying his paranoia. Suddenly… a sound from behind. In a fight or flight situation… he chose fight. A quick reflex shoots out a small electrical wire, it flies at astonishing speed as it collides with the target. Yet… nothing. He looked to see the person he had met yesterday night. “Y-you… what do you want from me.” Wayne said, backing up slowly. “Hmh~ so you did notice me… interesting” Yukari said, now wearing what to be the same cap, but now a complementing white dress, and a purple decorated tabard running along the middle. She held out what seemed to be a small parasol, pointing it at Wayne. “You might be the person I've been looking for… I'll give you a test, though first you should focus on survival, he-he~”“W-what do you mean survi-” Wayne questioned but was cut off as he felt the pavement suddenly give way from his foot. “WAAAH” Wayne screamed as he fell through a tear behind him. Yukari walked forth looking through her gap. After an elegant hand gesture, the twin ribbon tear heals as if it had never existed. “Normally I wouldn't say this but… I do have a small tinge of hope for you making it out~.” Yukari muttered.
Wayne crashed onto the solid ground, consciousness fading. The last thing he sees is the sight of a bright moon, and a sea of countless stars. As the last light of his eyes fades, the symbol on the hat he so oftenly wears on his head… lights up.
Act 1: End.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Second Act: Fantasy, Reality.
Chapter 1: The Casket of Necrofantasia
“WAAAGH-” Wayne's scream was cut as he collided with something hard. “Ouhf… What the hell?!” He looked around to see a long alleyway, one he recognised too well. “My old street?” Wayne muttered as he started to walk around, looking at the familiar buildings dotted with colourful banners, stalls selling whatever they saw fit, and generally a good atmosphere. At the end of the road however he sees a figure. It wore the same clothes as him, the sweater vest alongside a white undershirt. The black pants were the exact same, but I noticed one thing about the shoes… the soles were freshly smeared in blood. The figure turned towards Wayne. “Oh you've arrived.” the figure said, its face covered by an empty void box as if it was censored by the universe. A voice so otherworldly Wayne couldn't even describe the noise. “ So we finally met.. You may be confused and have an abundance of questions… but don’t worry, this will be quick.” The figure raised its arm, a flow of rainbow pattern illuminated at its fingertips. Wayne turned to a sprint, running to what could be himself, what could be explosives detonating behind… suddenly he was forcefully tripped over. He expected the sigh of that figure over him, but instead saw Theos. He looked different, had a pearly white robe decorated with golden rims and what seemed to be rainbow coloured accents. His eyes were otherworldly, iridescent eyes stared into Wayne's soul. He anticipated what might happen, prepared for the worst. What seemed to be Theos, held a decorated rod, raising it into the air as he shouted.
“WAKE UP.”
“UGAH-” Wayne screamed as he jolts awake, looking at his surroundings he notice he's not on the street, in fact noticing the countless foliage that blanket his view, tall trees provide what looked to be a forest little to no light, all he has is the full moon being the all seeing eye. “Where am I?” He mumbled rising to his legs, then taking a glance at the wall of darkened foliage that surrounded the lost and confused man. He then started to walk around, the grass beneath his feet crunching at each step, reverberating through the nightly dark forest. As each step made his presence known, he grew more cautious and paranoid. Seeing shadows moving across the darkness, eyes that peered into his soul as he trudged in a single direction.As he delved deeper into the forest, the small amount of seeping light that had been present was slowly dissipating. Wayne slowly reached for the large, green backpack he had brought, and got out a small flattened and rounded-edged cube then inserted it onto the left slot of the Convergence. He then formed a fist on his left hand, causing the looming darkness to be suddenly shoved back by a torrent of light.He soon made headway through the dense thick forest, As he continued into the night he noticed the same child sized mushrooms appear in front of him, barely in reach of high blinding light, each sighting growing his sense of unease. Wayne soon noticed how thick the forest air was, as if he was breathing in a dense misty fog. He knew from his other brother who loved the outdoors, who told him that specific forests usually have heavy air. He knew that this type of forest shouldn't have this heavy of a miasma. He quickly cleared his anxiety as he placed that worrying thought on the shelf of current worries he had as of now. Three child sized girls appear behind a tree, all of them giggling as they suddenly disappear in thin air…The lost college student shoves away another large brush, as he continues making headway into the forest. I need to find a clearing… Wayne thought as he anxiously continued deeper. The young man was then given a large fright as multiple giggles soon gave way from the eerie silence the forest gave. “Hehe, hey Sunny this human looks different, are sure this would be fine?” Wayne heard the faint voice of a young girl, sounding near yet miles away. “Luna, stop being so worrisome, a simple prank shouldn't hurt too much, Haha!” Another young voice shouted within the dense brush. “Hey I know we should lure him to the…” Another voice shouted but suddenly stopped. “Luna, you didn't forget to mute our voices, didn't cha?”“Oh cra-” The voice of what seemed to be Luna had cut off, as Wayne looked schizophrenically around him as he made sure those three voices wouldn't lure him to somewhere. Shortly after the encounter in the forest, Wayne continued to move in a straight line, following what seemed to be a lantern in the dark guiding him. Each time he closed the distance, it would turn off then reappear sometime after. As he made more headway, he soon felt his stomach gurgle. Crap, I'll have to ration my own limited food supply. Wayne thought as he continued on into the darkness, checking behind him as his paranoia grew like a stalk of bamboo. He then soon found a large opening, embraced by the moon’s light though ash seems and charred remains of plantation remain around the area. Taking the opportunity to rest his sorry withering legs, he sat down on a nearby stump that looked seemingly burnt. He shivered at what could have caused this, but had other worries. Wayne then gathered around a large pile of sticks and twigs, placing them neatly on a pile in front of him. He aimed his right arm forward, looking at the digital screen on his wrist then with the quick shape of a fist, two threads of electrically charged fibre lashed out onto the pile of carbon, setting the pile ablaze “ Sigh , I'll have to find civilization soon enough… “ Wayne mumbled leaning onto the warm flames that burnt the cold spring air into the atmosphere. Wayne turned off the torrent of the torrential light source on his left wrist, then layed on the large stump next to his source of warmth. I'll have to keep my head on a swivel, something is up . He thought as his stomach protested his inaction. Fine you win, I'll take a bite. Wayne gently tugged on the zipper of his bag making a very audible * ZZZZZZP*. Looking into the bag, he looked at what he had brought. Inside was his laptop he used for classes, the three slices of pizza he had bought, A solar powered charger, and equipment used for on-the-field maintenance if the Convergence ever broke down. He let out a sigh as he took a small chunk of the New York Style pizza slice he bought, then swallowed the chunk whole. Afterwards, he went down to lying down on the cleanly cut tree stump, then noticed a bunch more trees charred, and burnt. I really wonder what caused this… He thought looking at the clear starry sky. Wayne spent the next few hours combating the urge to fall asleep. As he was about to doze off, two voices from above approached, shaking the sleep off of him. “Marisa, this is a campfire someone's here.” A voice said. “At this hour Alice? It might have just been a group of youkai, if they ever get in the way of this repair I'll spark them!” another voice speaks. Wayne quickly rushes behind a large shrub, on one side it looks to have been blasted to kingdom come. Wayne then observes as two girls land next to his ‘campsite’. Both with shining blonde hair, one with short hair being held by a large red headband with small frills, and one with large flowing hair covered by a large pointed oversized black hat, adorned with a white bow. Wayne was sure enough to not trust these two individuals, he leaned in to get a closer look at the individuals. “Marisa, you already burnt down this part of the forest , we do not need more load…” “Alright fine, but don't complain if a few beast youkai disturb us Alice.” Wait, that person in black did this!? Wayne thought in terror, as he slowly made his way deeper into the forest till one of the girls said. “Oh, someone left a bag here.” Oh shit… Wayne looked back to see the girl that was probably Alice holding his bag of items. That laptop costs 80,000 Yen, don't you dare… Wayne thought as he waited for the two to leave. But then, he slipped on the muddy forest floor, rustling the nearby leaves. “Huh, did those bushes just move? I'll check it out, it might just be some youkai.” the person that must be Marisa said as she walked over to the brush Wayne hid behind. Oh shit oh shit oh shit! Wayne thought as the muddy footsteps inched closer to his excuse for a hiding spot. He checked his pockets if he had anything of sorts to use Small rocks, nope. My phone… no. Wait, this might work. “I know you're there, there's no point in hiding, just get out of here and nobody gets their pride hurt.” Marisa warned, unaware of who she was referring to. Wayne held his breath as he quietly swiped the interface of the Convergence’s left side. Please, please work… Wayne closed his eyes. Held his breath… then. “GET AWAY.”* FLASH* “Hey- AAHHH!!” the girl named Marisa screamed as she covered her eyes from the tsunami of light that blasted her entire vision. “Marisa, is everything alright overthere?” Wayne heard Alice call for her friend. “Something flashed a bright light at me!” Marisa said as she slowly regained her sight and bearings. “It's definitely not a fairy, that's for sure.” Wayne now hid behind a rock that was in front of Alice, ducking his head each time she looked at his direction. “I think it might have been that human who stayed here…” Alice suggested. “There's no way a human could be out here for that long. Outsider or not, the forest miasma would have choked them straight to hell.” Marisa rebutted. “If they are human I’ll drop them off at Reimu’s da-ze!” Alice then sighed, then spoke “Guess I'll come along too, I don't think this spell would be good for a human without experience with magic, even if they’re somehow immune to the forest’s air.” Wayne then watched with shock and awe, as they started floating upwards defiant to the laws of physics. “I’ll search around the forest, you search around here sounds good?” Marisa suggested. “I guess that will work.” Alice agreed. Wayne watches as Marisa blasts into one direction, in awe at the speed she flew at. He then notices the girl named Alice perform a hand gesture, calling out multiple doll-like figures, which look similar to their master. The group of dolls, wielding weapons from knives to comically oversized lances scatter as Alice herself starts searching through the remains of the charred forest. Wayne lies flat onto the ground holding his breath, as one of the dolls with a bright red bow floats overhead barely missing him. Once the doll was out of sight, Wayne looked up and saw some of his stuff scattered around the area, his bag with a laptop and next to the now put out fireplace, his solar powered charger and the Self Defense Controlled Shock Attachment (SDCSA) on a rock north east of the singed stump. And… Huh?! My hat! Wayne mentally cried as he noticed not only Alice holding the hat gifted to him since he was little, but what he considered his best addition to the Convergence, The Harpoon. He knew he had to retrieve it, but he would have to wait for the best opportunity to get in and out. Wayne then looked on at the girl as she looked at Wayne’s hat with beaming curiosity. “That symbol… this looks familiar…” he heard the girl mumble. I have to be strategic, keep my head down… and watch for the Eyes in the Skies.
0/3
Equipment Retrieved
Wayne made his way towards the campsite, avoiding the dolls that patrol overhead. But as he got closer, he looked up to meet the beady eyes of one of the dolls looking straight at him. Before the doll could react, Wayne shoved the doll then sent out a blinding flash. He hid inside another shrub, crouching as the doll went around and attempted to find him once more. “H-hey, we're here to help you don't have to hide, it's dangerous out here!” Alice cried out as she floated towards the area Wayne had been spotted in, dropping The Harpoon attachment. As if I'd trust you. Wayne thought as he waited for his next move. He held his breath as the girl floated closer to the shrub, eyeing it thoroughly. Wayne closed his eyes as he hoped the short haired blondie hadn't spotted her. By some miracle, she floated off to a different location. Wayne breathed a sigh of relief, as he carefully made his way to a still standing tree, hiding behind its aged trunk. He looked onwards as he visualised the pattern of the Search Party in front of him.It wasn't long till he gained an opportunity. Alice turned her attention to the previous rock he hid behind moments ago. Wayne then dashed towards the bag which held his laptop, along with one of the attachments, a simple laser pointer. He quickly slotted it in as Alice turned her head. Wayne then quickly flashed the sun at her face, alongside a perfect laser pointer to the eye. “H-HEY” Alice cried out, as Wayne dove behind a group of bushes and trees.
1/3
Equipment Retrieved
Wayne started to notice the small group of dolls, growing in numbers. “If this is some youkai or fairy prank I’ll beat you up next month.” Alice stated. Wayne knew he had to grab his items and get out.Luckily for him, he noticed the Solar Powered Charger, alongside the SDCSA on the rock, just in front of him. The problem was that three dolls were stationed looking in all directions.Wayne spent a few minutes, pondering on how to distract the dolls, till he noticed something about the dolls, a barely visible thread of flowing light.Wayne was unsure what those threads of light were, but his eyes trailed the barely luminescent thread till he found its host, Alice.Noticing this he knew the dolls are an extension of herself, forgoing any logical reasoning at this point. He knew he had to get the girl keeping a hawk’s glare on forest ruins’ attention, with only one choice, he then set off a flash beacon on the area he stood firm. “...What? Hey stop, we're only trying to help!” Alice yelled, though falling onto deaf ears. She soon moved her dolls away from the spot. Wayne quickly rushed for the two pieces of equipment he needed. He quickly picked up the charger, then his attachment before making an exit. But suddenly while carefully sprinting through the muddy soil, something grabbed him by the collar of his shirt. Turning behind he saw Alice, holding by the back of his vest. Her grip was deceptively strong, inhuman it seemed. “I know you’re frightened but you have to trust me!” She told Wayne.“L-like I’d trust anyone after she did this!” He screamed back, trying to overload his flashlight. Alice noticed this and quickly grabbed his arm “Please trust me we’re only here to help!” Wayne struggled with Alice for what seemed to be an eternity, not wanting to yield to what seemed to be fate, occasionally thrashing his arms as the doll master stood adamant. “C-calm down! We can take you to civilization!” Alice pleaded, the message seemed to hit the young man as his force weakened. “Yo Alice, nothing to repo-” The voice of the girl in black returned, to find Wayne and Alice’s struggle. Wayne knew he had to break out, he couldn’t be caught here, it wouldn’t end here. Something within flared up, a pressurised valve bursting at the seams.Everything flew into his mind. Fear, regret, but also a deep hatred of those who would push him down. If it means Voluntary Suicide, so be it. Wayne mustered all he could, his energy and emotions pushed the now shocked girl off her feet, punching a doll with a bow as red as the blood and iron he so forced onto his escape, shattering it on the muddy soil of the forest.Quickly sprinting to the forest line, he hid under an old decaying log as he contemplated how to grab what he wanted the most. His pearlescent pointed hat.
2/3
Equipment Retrieved
“Go take a break, I’ll go look for that man.” He heard the girl called Marisa talk to Alice, now searching him like a fugitive from the skies above. Wayne knew he had to grab it, and get out. After a while he devised a plan, using the flashlight and laser. Alice sat on a rock, dirt and mud glazed on her ocean blue dress. “ sigh I just hope Marisa won’t frighten the man too much, or worse…” she mumbled. She pulled out the hat of the lost man, examining it. She gently brushed her finger on the hat’s pearlescent silk. “Hm…? Traces of magic? I thought magic was long gone from the outside world…” Alice pondered as she took a deep breath. As Alice inspected the shining pointed hat, she noticed the symbol now recognising it under the bright moonlight. “I-it can’t be… I thought they died out long ago!” Alice shouted in surprise but her fascination and surprise soon died out as she heard a great Pandemonium behind her. “YOU… GIVE THAT BACK.” Wayne shouted as he lounged onto the girl. “Wa- AH!” Alice screamed as Wayne tackled her, a small metallic fibre attached to a tube with a large sharp spike on the tip fell out of the doll master’s pocket. Both the man and the girl fall onto the wet forest ground, despite being bathed in soil. Wayne quickly replaced his laser pointer with the harpoon, and the flashlight with the SDCSA. He quickly fired the taser at Alice, which caused her to grunt in pain “H-Hey! Ack, no stop!” She yelled back at the man who picked up his hat, now muddied due to the struggle. Wayne then soon makes a run for it, but as he was about to make an escape. The girl with long blonde hair, along with an oversized pointed hat suddenly zips in front of him. “I had enough of this…” Marisa angrily growled. “MARISA NO STO- '' Alice yelled but it was too late. Multiple star shaped projectiles came flying towards Wayne, who then quickly hid behind a tree. “Oh you son of a bitch!” Marisa shouted as Wayne managed to avoid her attack. Marisa then appeared in front of the exhausted young man as she shouted. “I don’t have time for this! Love Sign: Master Spa-” But before she could finish, Alice came from behind and took her hand. “You’re just making him more irrational!” the short blonde yelled. Wayne froze as he watched the two girls bicker among each other. “That dude had it coming, he literally assaulted you!” “He was afraid!”“Afraid of what!” Alice then paused for a moment then quieted down. “He mentioned about a ‘she’ doing something… I believe that gap hag has something to do with this.” Marisa soon calmed down at the statement “O-o-oh uh-um” “Now you gave him more of a reason to run and hide, and in the worst place too!” The two girls turn to where Wayne was moments ago, then turn to look at each other with a guilty look. “I should go ask Reimu, he definitely won't be happy seeing us.” Marisa said Alice then looks at the forest floor, noticing the messy hat the man seemed to wear. Picking it up she mumbled a few words “I’ll return it when I get the chance.”
3/3
3/4
Equipment Retrieved
Quick and hurried footsteps filled the great dense forest. Each time his shoe collides with ground, a muddy splosh echoes through the trees. His breath is heavy, running in one direction for who knows how long. Soon he finds a small rock in the sea of twigs and trunks, taking the opportunity to rest, he quickly hides behind the rock and lets out one big pained filled moan.He slowly closes his eyes, as he looks around to see nobody. Sighing a relief, till he noticed something. His hat was gone. “Fucking damn it!” Wayne pounded the ground. He wanted to scream and let it all out but he was exhausted, he had nowhere to go. With the last of his energy he laid his back onto the rock, just then noticing a large gaping chasm in front of him. As he was to pass out, he noticed a crack on the soil on which he pounded his fist on, growing. Before long, the forest floor seemed to move in front of the man taking him into the great hole. Wayne screamed as he fell then soon, his world turned to black once more.
Walking around the hard solid rock was a blonde girl in brown and black clothing, seemingly creating white threads at her fingertips humming a tune till noticing a sound. She went to investigate, noticing the injured young man. Looking up, seeing the weather in the blowhole to be the roughest it had been in years. She looked at the man who seemed to be in bad shape, and with a face of empathy she lifted him up, and carried him through the walls of stone.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Second Act: Fantasy, Reality.
Chapter 2: Having Fallen, It Was Blood.
*Drip *
* Drip *
“..no Kisume, you can't loft this human’s head and eat it.”
“aw… “
*Drip*
*Drip*
“...hey I think he's waking up.”
“Huh?”
“...nghhh” weakly groaned Wayne. Am I dead? The man questioned himself, unable to open his eyes. Suddenly what felt to be hands pulled something off his face jolting the guy as he attempted to flail his arms and legs, all stuck to some substance “GET AWAY FROM ME!” Wayne screamed in fright. “Told ya my webs would hold!” “grh… alright fine, meet me at the City Centre later…” What seemed to be two girls, one with blonde hair tied to a large bun with a large black bow, and one with green hair who seemed to be inside of a bucket hanging from who knows where, bicker with each other as they looked at the trapped human.The blonde turned to the man, looked at him curiously then spoke. “Hey calm down, we're not gonna hurt you, well at least I won't but as long as I’m here your brains won’t be turned into feed by this Tsurube-otoshi here.” The blonde girl said, in an attempt to calm down the still trying to flail his arms Wayne. Despite the questionable attempt, it managed to calm the bounded young man and return some clear thought to him though he still had a frightened look, especially towards the girl in a bucket.“Alright you’ve calmed well… I’m Yamame Kurodani, this is Kisume. I’m a Tsuchigumo, and as I already mentioned, this bucket is a Tsurube-otoshi.” The girl called Yamame then moved a previously unnoticed arachnid-like arm attached to her back. “Here, some water or something, but please don't be reckless.” She then swiped her spider-like arm onto the threads that bind the man, Wayne though he was a goner till he fell onto the floor with a comically reverberating thud. Yamame held her actual hand out offering it to Wayne, the man looked at her in distrust before mustering enough courage to take it. “Ok, now here” Yamame handed over a wooden bowl full of water. “Don't worry about it being clean, I fixed that beforehand.” Wayne didn't want to know the implications of ‘fixed that’ but didn't ask as he felt like a baked sponge. After drinking Wayne sat down onto a rock next to the two girls. There was an awkward silence between the trio, all staring at each other waiting to see who made the first move. Eventually Yamame broke the ice, and started. “So… uh, your name?” Wayne looked cautiously for a bit before telling “Wayne, Wayne Aikawa.”“Sooo… Wayne.” Yamame trailed off as she looked at what to be a tunnel inside of the cavern. “You're wondering where ya are right now aren't you?” Wayne quietly nodded in agreement. Yamame cleared her throat as she started explaining “So, I can pretty much tell from what you're wearing you're an outsider so I'll explain it surface level. You're in a land called Gensokyo, not sure about the specifics but it's a place where fantasy reigns, separated by some sort of barrier. As you can see I'm one of those creatures of fantasy… A youkai, along with Kisume yeah.” Wayne heard of youkai from his younger brother a lot, remembering gruesome depicting horrific stories of people being eaten or worse. He tried to hide his horror from the two youkai, who pretty much noticed. “Oh you're familiar with youkai? I thought they didn't teach those to outsiders anymore. Anyways…” Yamame trailed off once again looking at the cave around. “You're in a place where no outsider has ever reached until you.”“H-huh?” Wayne's curiosity overtook the fear of being eaten. “Follow me, I'll show you why.” Yamame said as she stood up, threw the bag Wayne had at him, grabbed Kisume by the bucket handle and started walking into the darkness of the cavern. “Keep close, these stalagmites are sharp” Her voice echoed and reverberated. The three walked, well one of them floated towards the entrance. As they arrived Wayne was struck by an awe inspiring site, countless boulders and rocks being shoved by a constant gusting stream of air coming from who knows where. “Welcome to the Fantastic Blowhole, and now you can see why you shouldn't even be alive right now.”Wayne then remembered what had happened, him falling into the abyssal blowhole with something knocking him out as he fell. Yamame noticed the man's face then said “This is why… I don't think you're a normal human.”That final statement shook Wayne out of the shock and awe he had been experiencing. “Huh? What do you mean?” Yamame then swung one of her spider-like arms into Kisume’s bucket, grabbing an object. Holding what seems to be a pocket mirror, with a precarious red stain on the lower portion of the glass, Wayne saw himself. He noticed his eyes. “W-what!?” Wayne took a closer look, his previously brown irises now had an alternating rainbow glow, just like one of those RGB lights used in computers. “Just staring into your eyes just gives me a chill that I've never experienced.” Yamame commented. “And as she said, you wouldn't have survived a fall like that, how the hell did you fall down here anyway?” Kisume interjected and questioned. “You already saw my reaction when I woke up didn't you.” Wayne replied. “Makes sense.” the girl nodded. “First off, we can't take you back to the surface cuz off…” Yamame pointed at the storm of rocks “You know.” “Yeah, yeah I get it, but where will you take me?” Wayne asked, masking his fear of the two youkai.“Oh just the Ancient Capital.” Yamame said in a nonchalant manner.“Ancient Capital?”“It's a city filled with underground youkai, mostly Oni.” Yamame replied. “Anyways just follow me.” Yamame then walked towards another tunnel carrying Kisume, the Tsuchigumo’s footsteps reverberated through the cavern as Wayne carefully hurried to the group. The trip was far longer than he had thought, the long twisting tunnels had given the young man a sense of unease, as he checked to see if his equipment managed to survive certain death. As his thoughts began to trail he felt the hand of Yamame pull him along. The trio entered an area, countless wooden bridges suspending the group over rivers of flowing magma, the heat akin to one standing next to a high heat oven alongside the cavern roof being seemingly kilometers away. “Watch your step, you don't want fourth degree burns do ya.” Yamame warned. “Alright…. “ Wayne acknowledged. “By the way, where in this city are you taking me?” he then asked. “Some doctor and herbalist who recently arrived to give aid to the recent group of youkai who settled here.” Yamame answered. “She's human, but others say otherwise.” the spider shrugged, causing Wayne to wonder. “She could help you, can't myself since I have a construction job in a few.”Wayne thought for a moment unsure if he should ask a question, as like a hydrogen balloon next to an open flame. In the end his curiosity, innate to all human beings, won over. “Why are you helping me?” Wayne asked. “Hm?” “It's just that… a youkai like you and her, going out of their way to help their prey?” Yamame stopped walking, turning around to look at the human she took with her. Wayne’s heart began to sink. He carefully armed the taser attachment in a small chance it would give him ample time to run. Yamame’s eye, alongside Kisume’s pierced through the mortal being of Wayne. He mentally prepared himself, in case he provoked a literal spider nest. “....I don't really attack live humans, monthly delivery and all that.” Yamame answered in such a casual fashion which stunned the trapped human. “I also don't like conflict much, you would know if you have lived for centuries.” She smiled, causing shivers down Wayne’s spine. “Aaaanyways, we should really get going, the heat is really getting to me.” The Tsuchigumo said as she started walking. Kisume and Wayne looked at each other before the girl in the bucket talked. “...uh, for the record I collect heads on a weekly basis, you are lucky she found you first.” Wayne hid his fear as he responded. “T-that's good to know…”The two youkai, and their human ‘friend’ continue to travel through the multiple old rotting bridges, somehow managing to hold the weight of the three people, preventing an untimely roast. Each step they took further, the heat surged more and more. “We are nearly there, just one more bridge.” Yamame spoke, as they closed into the longest bridge they had encountered decorated with multiple ornaments, alongside a great flowing river of magmatic rock rushing it as if it was water. In the distance what looked like stars flickered in the mass of multiple buildings, akin to a night sky. “Parsee!” Yamame greeted, but it fell on deaf ears. “Parsee? Are you there?” Yamame then began searching for someone, not before giving Kisume to Wayne who quickly placed her down after she gave him a death stare. After a while Yamame gave up and returned to the group. “Weird, she never leaves her post unless it's very important…” Yamame pondered her human and spider arms crossed below her chest. “Who's they, a friend of yours?” Wayne questioned. “Yeah, a Hashihime or Bridge Princess. She's supposed to guard this bridge as it's hers but as you can see….” Yamame pointed out “ She's not here…”Then suddenly the ground rumbled followed by the booming roar of an explosion across the bridge, and within the stone walls of the city. The ground quaked and rumbled, Wayne barely managed to balance himself, the bucket Kisume was in vibrating due to the quake, and Yamame somehow managed to stand still without much effort. “Uh, is that good?” Wayne asked, still a bit skittish. “I don't think it is.” Kisume responded. “Nah, it's just probably the Oni having another braw-” Yamame was then cut off by another roaring explosion, she turned her head looking at the city where there was rising smoke.“Actually yeah, I don't think that's good…” Yamame gritted her teeth in concern, sharp fang like teeth protruding as she glared at the city. “Come on, something's happening!” Yamame grabbed the hands of both Wayne and Kisume, pulling them along as they both yelped in surprise. The bridge was a long journey, the great river of magma seemed bigger than Wayne thought each rushed step increased the heat he felt. As soon as the bridge ended, Yamame grabbed him with her spider-like arms then with her hands, quickly formed a silk rope around her and Wayne, then grabbed Kisume with a web by the bucket’s handle as she took off. “Wai- WAh you can fly too?!” Wayne cried in shock as Yamame flew higher. “All Youkai can fly you know, it's as simple as running here in Gensokyo. Just hold tight!” Yamame soon flew off quickly in one direction as Wayne held on. Yamame flew with Kisume following behind, soon flying over the multiple stoney rooftops of the city, consisting of multiple architectural styles Wayne watched in amazement at how well ancient and modern styles could be blended well, as if it was art. Yamame noticed Wayne who then smiled in pride. “Most of the buildings here are built by Tsuchigumo, led by me!” Wayne nodded still dazzled with the city’s architecture and planning, the birds eye view really helped sell the city to him. “Most of the buildings were just us Tsuchigumo messing about and showing off our skills, but the more important buildings were carefully planned.”The group noticed the crowds of Youkai seemingly running or confronting what seemed to be spirits and their own kind. “Are those ghosts?” Wayne asked.“Evil Spirits, this underground cavern system used to be hell before the Yamas moved it due to overpopulation or something.” Wayne heard of the stories of Yama, judges of the afterlife. “Most spirits never left, so she hired someone to take care of them in exchange for a home.”They then saw a bright fountain of light, multiple projectiles flying and crashing with each other. “Watch out!” Kisume shouted as a green petal-like projectile whizzed past them. In the distance Wayne saw two people, two blondes one with pointy ears and one with a bright red bow both seemed to be ones throwing out projectiles. “Hey over there.” Wayne pointed to the two.“This doesn't look like a spell card battle, this can only mean one thing…” Yamame said, worry in her voice. “Spell ca-” Wayne was about to question what in the world were spell cards but a large boom cut him off. The three then saw the red bowed blonde, getting flung into their direction crashing on a few stalls below. Yamame descends, checking the damage around the area. “ sigh This is gonna take up most of the week.” She groaned. She then unties Wayne from herself, dropping him to the floor with him letting out a comedic “Ouhhf…” Wayne then noticed the blonde girl, a large red bow with ornament, and a fair white dress, trimmed with red designs. He and the two youkai move closer to the girl who then gets up. “O-oh hello, kind of busy-” She pauses at seeing Yamame. “Yamame she’s gotten out she has Parsee…”Yamame growled at the information “She should have been sealed within the depths of the netherworld for what she had done.” The Tsuchigumo spoke in a tone which sent a chill through Wayne's spine. “I also see you have brought someone, doesn't look like a youkai though, besides the eyes.” The girl asked. “Beats me, he survived a free fall from the top of a blowhole.”The girl turned to Wayne who curiously examined him, he tried his best to not show his fear as the red bowed blonde checked on the man. “Your eyes are something, gives off a menacing feeling… Once this is over I'd like to check on you for a bit.” She then turned around walking away, then floated upwards. “The name is Rin Satsuki by the way, Ancient City Doctor, and Herbalist.” She then took off towards the raging sounds of conflict.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The streets were filled with screams, both defiant and in terror. What seemed to be an Oni, its body and joints moving in such a way that it was obvious it wasn't doing it on its own will, Its legs and arms contorting and flexing as what seemed like two beings in a single body were disagreeing with each other. “Looks like a possessed Oni has found us…” Kisume spoke, her head barely eye level from within her bucket.. The horned humanoid then charged towards the group, repeatedly tripping on its own faltering steps. Yamame then gave Kisume to Wayne, who held her bucket with two hands on the base. “I'll handle thi-” Yamame was cut off as a blur came down as if it was a meteor. “You three, move!” A strong voice ordered as the dust cleared from view. What looked to be an Oni, sporting blue shorts and a white shirt. Long blonde hair sprawled from her head causing Wayne to wonder how many blondes are in this Gensokyo. But what set her apart is her clean perfect cone of a horn, red as blood along with a print of a star. She then continued to speak. “A human… Yamame, what's the meaning of this?” The spider girl sighed as she stated “Meant to take him for a quick visit, but as you can see… “ The Oni sighed. “Alright, though his eyes are… something” “I know… “ Yamame responded“Bring him to Chireiden, Lady Satori’s welcoming refugees as of now. I'll hold off Mizuchi and her league for now.”“And you human.” The tall Oni turned to Wayne“U-uh yes?” he nervously answered. “Yuugi Hoshiguma, One of the Four Devas. I'll be talking to you after this, I would like to know how you got yourself in this situation.” Yuugi said with a smile as she turned back to the still possessed Oni, proceeding to tackle them into a building, causing debris and dust to fly up and cloud the view. “Come Wayne, we'll take you to the safe zone.” Yamame spoke to Wayne as she grabbed his hand, almost dropping Kisume. “Careful!” the girl in the bucket screamed.The group ran around the multiple collapsing stone buildings, the sound of stone crashing, glass shattering. Good gosh… Wayne thought as he was still being pulled by the Tsuchigumo. The cacophony of sounds continues to send the atmosphere in a frenzy, the general commotion of not just Oni, but different youkai all fleeing or fighting for what they own. Either for pride, or something they had grown attached to for the longest of time.The trio turn a street as Yamame talks. “Can’t take off, we need to get distance on foot, she will definitely see us.” Yamame then guides Wayne, who is still holding Kisume, into a back alley.He notices sounds of what seemed to be whimpering coming from a couple of child-like girls with wings. He recognises what they are, Yousei or Fairies he had learnt from his brother, embodiments of nature herself, simple minded beings attached to what aspect of nature they embody. The fairies then start sobbing, after a large force rattle the ground along with the buildings surrounding the group. “Crap… I hope Rin’s ok...” Kisume muttered. “She’s strong, I know for a fact she can handle herself.” Yamame assured her friend. Afterwards, a loud yell was heard as the group entered what seemed to be the main street of the Ancient Capital. “RIN!” Yamame shouted in shock as she looked at the sound of the yelling. What seemed to be the possessed body of Parsee choke holding Rin as she struggled mid air. The Hashihime turned her head to the group, then let out a devilish, inhuman grin. “Oh my, It’s been a while hasn’t it. Too bad that prison you and your cronies had built was too easy for the jailbreak king!” “Let her go Mizuchi… Both of them.” Yamame growled at the possessed Parsee.“I don’t think I wi-” Mizuchi taunted before suddenly noticing Wayne. “You… you are exactly someone I need.” She said with a malicious smile. “This is perfect… Humanity will once be on the stage it has always deserved. Gensokyo will have its perfect balance, free from this unnatural order caused by filthy youkai!”“What?!” Wayne replied unsure of what the evil spirit ment.“Don’t you see, why do you think the numerous youkai you seemed to have met hadn't killed you and turned your diaphragm into a children’s toy!” Mizuchi statedWayne gave a small side eye glance to Yamame as he turned his eyes to the evil spirit. “You have great potential… one I shall use for myself!” Parsee, or should say Mizuchi, rushed to the group targeting Wayne. Suddenly a white silky thread attaches to the possessed Hashihime, then a quick blur of Yamame appears knocking the spirit off the sky. Yamame lands elegantly shooting multiple threads of webs onto the cables used for lanterns, allowing herself to stick a perfect landing as Mizuchi crashes onto the pavement of the main street. Sorry Parsee, I owe you a lot later. Yamame apologised in her thoughts.“Gosh It’s been a while since I felt pain!” Mizuchi then cackled, Yamame cringed at Mizuchi using the normally reserved Parsee’s voice. Then a blue shine appeared from the body on the ground as the body of the bridge princes fell into a slump.A pale girl emerged from the now unconscious body. Ghostly skin, Hair as blue as the great flames of the souls that will never be free of eternal torment tied to a ponytail, alongside her eyes. Wearing a red white striped dress, which seems to be slightly oversized, her legs cut off from the ankles in a flame-like manner. Complimented by two cuffs, one had its chains torn asunder, the other seemingly cuffed to her neck, while the other seemingly free wielding it as if it was a weapon.“It’s serendipitous that you’ve lived for this long, without knowledge of the great powers you hold I shall do a better job at maintaining it!” Mizuchi then threw her cuff and chain onto Wayne. He managed to dodge the golden chain just barely, dropping Kisume and falling onto the ground. “...you.” Kisume growled, suddenly a fibre rope shot out into the underground sky, anchoring itself to who knows what. Kisume then suddenly ascends higher till she’s out of sight.“Uh Kisume? Yamame?” Wayne called for the two people, or youkai he had trusted when he first awoke underground. “Hey stop!” Yamame shouted shooting what seemed to be purple gooey projectiles from her hands, till a group of spirits surrounded her causing her to be distracted. “Take care of them will you, once I get a hold of him our freedom has been achieved!”“BITCH!” A sudden sonorous warcry reverberated across the cavern, as Kisume suddenly swooped down onto the spirit. “I’ve been in a very head-hungry mood today, and you will satiate it!” She said in a feral voice, which made Wayne’s core chill. “I’ll split your head clean off!” As soon as the fingers of the Tsurube-Otoshi graze the ghostly white skin of the spirit, he eyes widen. “Aww, did you forget that spirits don’t have corporeal bodies?” Mizuchi taunted, as she swung her cuff at the bucket, causing her to fall onto the ground, surprisingly to Wayne not a single scratch on the bucket was shown. “Now for the big event~” Mizuchi returned to Wayne taunting him. Floating on the air slowly, holding the unlocked cuff by the key post and chain. Wayne watches in horror as Mizuchi grabs him by the collar floating upwards, choking the young man. He repeatedly flails about, kicking legs, attempting to pull the hand that held him. But it was all in vain as Mizuchi reached into the body of the human she held hostage. “H-huh I haven’t seen a soul and consciousness so strong for a body to resist possession…” Mizuchi states in surprise, then suddenly swings her unlocked cuff onto the poor man. “Not if it's a problem heh.” Wayne is set flying across the main street of the underground capital, crashing onto the ground. He couldn’t feel anything, but pain. His vision turned red, blood stained his almost perfectly white and black clothes as if it was a modern piece of abstract art. He tried to gain his bearings, so see Kisume still stuck on the ground, Yamame trying to hurriedly help him, but to the constant arrival of spirits and possessed Youkai, it was hopeless.Wayne felt the last of his energy, his life force seep into the open air, akin to a gas leak. His vision pulsated in and out, conscious and unconscious. He couldn’t touch, smell, nor hear, all there was, was the metallic and rusted taste of his own blood, and the vision of Mizuchi approaching him. “Sorry kid, times up~” Mizuchi spoke, as Wayne's vision and the world around him turned to black.
From the world turning to black, Wayne suddenly awoke to a plane of emptiness. A pure vanta void, he could stand, see, hear, and feel as if everything that happened to him was a dream. The man wanders around, aimlessly hoping to grab a sense of meaning. Each step seeps a drop of fear, anxiety, and distress onto the man. “H-Hello, anyone out there?” Wayne shouted, his voice reverberating throughout what he thought was purgatory, a purgatory made of himself. Suddenly a figure manifested in the distance, Wayne felt a sudden deja reve as he approached the figure who looked remarkably like himself. “Hey, do you know where I am?” Wayne asked as he slowly approached the figure. No response, the figure stood still gazing off into the distant null. Wayne audibly gulped, as he slowly approached the figure once more. “...You're stronger than I thought.” The figure spoke in an otherworldly, booming voice akin to the sound of Wayne’s own voice. The being finally turned around, snapping its fingers. Out from the empty mass of nothing, came multiple streaks of light anchoring Wayne’s arms and legs in a splayed formation. “Y-you… What do you want?!” Wayne shouted as he attempted to break the chains of multi-coloured light that bind him mid air. The black unrecognisable bar suddenly faded from view, revealing the figure to be exactly like Wayne. The only difference… he inhuman eyes, the iris and sclera where one and the same, flowing patterns of multicoloured light, the pupils a menacing slit going vertically, and horizontally, akin to a plus sign. “You’ve done your part, though you got us into a bit more trouble than I had anticipated. Oh well, we for once agree on something… teaching that ghost how to burn in hell.” The figure then faded to sparks of multi-coloured light, as Wayne was binded, in his own purgatory.
“Why the hell can’t I enter this body-” Mizuchi grumbles, was cut off by a large blast of multi-coloured light. “It’s because it's already occupied. ” What seemed to be Wayne then glared Mizuchi with now inhuman eyes, slitted plus sign irises within an ocean of flowing colours. The sight actually made the evil spirit flinch in fear “W-what is this, how can I be intimidated…” She mumbled in shock. Before she could even recognise it, an arch of light flew straight at her, sending her crashing onto multiple buildings. “ How pitiful, for someone originating in hell. You can’t even stand for yourself without possession.” Wayne let out an otherworldly chuckle, instilling fear not just into Mizuchi, but also Kisume, The multiple evil spirits, and Yamame who both watched in surprise and fear. What seemed to be Wayne formed a hand sign, the Convergence ignites in a ethereal iridescent light. The rounded tip, formed into a large blade on both arms. The multiple attachments all slot into newly formed hard points, He walks forward eyes unblinking, his gaze unrelenting. “The Wayne before sends his regards. He’s under new management now.” Wayne’s mouth turns to a wide, toothy grin as he rushes towards Mizuchi. Yamame watches the conflict unfolding in the distance. She then quickly deals with the distracted evil spirits, tying them in silky webs she produces, and afterwards rushes to Kisume who’s still on the ground. “Kisume!” Yamame shouts, calling for her friend. “Yamame?! Over here!” Kisume calls back to her friend. Yamame picks up the girl in the bucket, then runs for cover as she hears the sound of combat between what she thought was a human, and the evil spirit that caused havoc not so long ago. Kisume and Yamame both peek out their heads seeing the traces of multi-coloured light, along streaks of independent light, a chilling blue, a burning red, a toxic green, alongside other colours the two watch as who they thought was a weird human they had brought along, to be a force they hadn’t seen since the Subterranean Star Incident, when two humans came down to former hell, beating a lot of folk up. They watch carefully as Wayne ascends higher, somehow learning to fly on the spot. Mizuchi seemed to hold out so far, the constant barrages of light were tough to dodge but it was trivial for her. “For someone so~ intimidating, you sure are lousy in combat!” Mizuchi taunted Wayne. Immediately afterwards, she regretted it oh so dearly. A harpoon of pure violet light shot through the uncorporeal body of the ghost, to the evil spirit’s utter shock and despair it managed to anchor itself onto her pale ghostly skin. Wayne’s grin grew even wider, a bright streak of orange light shone onto the helpless evil spirit, as she attempted to detach herself from the hook shaped harpoon attach to her chest Mizuchi herself was a cruel spirit, alongside the other evil spirits that roamed the former hell serving their sentence till the end of time. But never could she imagine such cruelty being done by a human, if she could even call it a human. “You may call it combat, I call it simple en-ter-tain-ment” Wayne said, highlighting each syllable of the word entertainment. His now ethereal, booming voice echoing throughout the now sparsely populated streets, as the eyes of many all lock on to the two in the air. “I think placing you within a Searchlight would be fitting, and fun! ” Wayne then snapped his finger as a luminous being floated next to him, a large toothy mouth, surrounded by six other smaller ones, all with hooks seemingly coming out of it, along with four eyes all somehow producing light and gazing on the helpless spirit. Soon Mizuchi noticed the harpoon’s line not coming from him, but from the entity of light he had seemingly spawned in. Wayne’s crossed shape pupils stared at Mizuchi as if he was reading an entire document for a research group. After his short but intense stare he let out a small chuckle. “ Surviving all of that, just to falter at the end!”Within the summoned entity of light were guttural screams, pain, pain that even the two youkai never knew one could experience. Mizuchi’s agony was heard although the underground the everlong screams amplified, as Wayne’s chuckle slowly turned to laughter. As soon his laughter ceased, he took a small breath in and with a loud voice that echoed through the ground itself, he stated. “So who’s next?!”“...Anyone?!”“Yeah I thought so…” In the distance, the two youkai girls make their way towards a large regal palace sitting at the far edge of the city, flying low enough to not gather the attention of fleeing spirits. “W-what the hell is he!?” Kisume screamed as she looked behind her at the sight of the floating mass, akin to a fish but multiple hooks, and four eyes acting as if they were searchlights. “I don't know, but I'm sure he is not himself… “ Yamame speeds up her flying as what is called the silhouette of what she and the other underground dwellers called, The Palace of Earthly Spirits slowly draws closer in the distance. The centre of the underground wasteland, also known as… “Chireiden, we can ask for help there…” Yamame softly spoke as she continued to speed up, moving as fast as she could. The suddenly… “Hey is that-” Kisume’s words suddenly cease as Yamame collides with the mentioned person, falling out of the sky, akin to the birds seen for comic relief. Both the bucket and the spider crash onto the rough, cobbled path that made up most of the city's walkways. “Hey, watch where you're going!” Someone spoke to the two friends, seemingly the one on the other side of the accident. A girl with a colour hair as heated as the red bleeding magma that flowed underground, along with twin braids coming off the side adorned with bows akin to those of obsidian, wearing a blue dress a contrasting coolness to the demarcation of hell, but two features that sat her apart. A twin black feline tails and a pair of cat ears of the same colour, curiously still having a pair of human-like ears too. “Oh, Yamame?” She picked herself up and approached the Tsuchigumo. “What are you doing here?” She asked. “Could ask you the same thing…” Yamame got up with a few grunts. “Well me and Kisume were actually looking for you, something developed waaay over there.” Yamame pointed to the general direction of where the agonised screams of the evil spirit came from. “Well… Lady Satori ordered me to investigate, as it seemed to have also frightened her. I'm pretty sure you have an idea on what happened?” The redhead cat girl spoke. “Well you see Orin… It’s a little complicated…” Yamame trailed off not knowing how to explain it to the cat-like person. A sudden shockwave then rattled the three, looking at the direction of the source. “...Whatever happened, we gotta solve it quickly.” Orin said The three then rocket back towards the source of the shockwave hoping to resolve what had just escalated. “Care to tell me what just happened now?” Orin asked, flying side by side to Yamame. “Found this weird looking human, eyes glowing with shifting colours. Decided to bring him to Rin, instead of stuffing him a bunch of webs and saving the man for a later meal.” Yamame answered before noticing how Orin flinched at the mention of the herbalist. “Still unused on how you now have to use your master’s nickname for all occasions?” Orin paused for a bit then spoke up. “Yeah, the other Kashas mocked me for a few days, no hard feelings to that doctor though.” the red haired Kasha looked at Yamame with a smile, you know you're kinder than people let out. “Hey can't be a biting spider all the time!” Yamame rebutted, Orin giggling at her reaction. Then turned her face serious, returning to the situation at hand then asked. “So, it turns out he wasn't a human?” Yamame nodded, then added “I've seen it happen, I don't think it's the same person. He was reserved and cautious. I can tell you that It couldn't be possession as he now somehow controls a power that I haven't seen before, and now acts like a megalomaniac, a sadist.” Orin thought for a bit, before speaking “I have a theory, but we need to see if we can bring the original back… and would it be fine if I took him to Chireiden?” “No problem, would be an extra weight off my back. Not having to be responsible for someone while on reconstruction duty.” Yamame then closed her eyes, and took a deep breath.
“Nrgh… darn that nasty spirit got me go-” Rin was cut off by a sound, the sound of screaming. The half-human then shoved the pile of stone, and quartz that laid over her. Looking around the now barely standing house that she was unwillingly thrown into, she dusted off the small pieces of minerals that stuck and painted her mostly fair white dress grey. “N-no pl-eas- NO WAI-AAAAHAHHAARH!!!” Rin heard the familiar voice scream, she knew who it was. Quickly limping over towards the open street, she saw a cruelty never seen before. “Hm, I wonder what happens if I continuously hook out your eyeballs, while sticking my fingers on your empty ghosty eye sockets! AHAHAHA!!!” Rin knew the voice immediately. “That human… how, and why!?” Rin muttered as she hid behind a cart, observing the sight of Wayne sadistically giving the trapped Mizuchi, a blade of pure magic to the eyes. “AUGUAHHAUGAH-” Mizuchi screamed as Wayne treated her like a kid, abusing their own toys. Rin had some history with the evil spirit, but knew she shouldn't be punished, not like this. She watched as a tendril of glowing liquid pierced the hand of the spirit then slowly creeped up her arm. Multiple other tendrils appeared, all associated with different elements and colours. “Louder, LOUDER! ” Wayne let out a chuckle. “ No longer am I weak... I shall show all, ALL I'm not one to be trifled with... ” The ground shook as an ethereal, maniacal laugh was heard. I can't just sit here, I have to do something! Rin thought. She gritted her teeth as she stepped out behind cover, holding out what seemed to be an instrument, a thin stick alongside two knobs near the top, attached to what looked to be akin to the head of a hammer on the frontside, was a scaly material. Along the handle, and head, two small thin strings ran down and towards the scaly face. Along with that instrument, was a simple bow string, multiple strings bundled together ran down on one side. She pointed the bow string towards Wayne as she announced. “Hey, let her go she's been through enough, I can assure she will be punished for what she has done!”Wayne's crossed pupils then stared directly onto Rin, the rainbow light shining down swallowing her whole. “Hmm… Nah, I don't think so.” Wayne casually replied. Rin then spoke up, explaining a hunch she felt. “You weren't this a few moments ago… you aren't actually him are you.” “My, my… such sharp intuition. Seems you've caught me oh so red handed. But what are you going to do about it?“ Wayne or the thing that controlled him then floated above the doctor. “Let him go, if not I'll do it myself.” Rin then readied herself, an unusual combat position of playing her instrument. “These flowers aren't just for show. They are the current of nature through myself, and my erhu.” Wayne then chuckled, the ground vibrating alongside. “The Ultimate Trade, now anticipating its Ultimate Practitioners… ” He then enlarged his twin wrist guards, now appearing as two, shining, multi-colored blades. “ Let's dance. ” Wayne announced, as he dashed towards the underground doctor. Rin not expecting his speed, managed to block the attack by a formation of magical flowers, grown from her bow stick. Oh shit, he's fast… Rin then played a quick and rushing tune on her erhu, causing multiple plant vines to sprout from the ground, hitting Wayne. “...That's it?” Wayne spoke flatly, as he shot out his harpoon, only this time it was orange. Rin played her instrument in a defensive manner. “Through Hansho the petals of life flow through my accord!” After Rin’s small chant a large flower bloomed above her, just in time for the harpoon’s tip to hit it. On impact the spiked metal stick exploded into a show of multiple lights of magic destroying the large flower. “The valley is vast, and within you shall find great poison!” Rin then played Hansho with a deep sombre, and sickly feel. Then multiple white drooping, bell shaped flowers appeared which shot out purple and green magical seed-like projectiles. Wayne then sent out metallic tendrils, which on impact on the glowing seeds caused them to explode on impact. “I'll give you a chance, leave now or face what she is currently dealing with now…” Wayne threatened as he pointed to Mizuchi. “Unless you let both of them go, I won't yield...” Rin stated flatly as she played her erhu intensely. “Hansho, call upon nature's praise for the sun, the one who waits patiently within the darkness and storms… for the rising sun.” Rin announced, as she started playing a lively tune, one reminiscent of the sweating days in the warm summer air. Suddenly multiple embers of magic, akin to a Sunday morning's mist, emit from Rin and her erhu. Suddenly a large flower, emitting a bright yellow glow forms above the doctor, as she slowly floats up and arrives at the same level as Wayne. Before Wayne could get even a small trickle of voice out, the large blooming Sunflower aimed its florets, spinning its petals ever faster, and faster. Soon it opens fire, a hail of light with each floret alternating fire rapidly. He was caught off guard as he attempted to fly to the side, holding a wall of multiple floating pieces of earth. It wasn't enough, and multiple beams riddled the man. With each strike, the rate of fire became faster as Rin played her instrument incrementally quicker. As Rin approached a crescendo, the magical sunflower then glowed, akin to the bright morning sun. “Sing! An Eternal Summer!” Rin shouted, as she finished her erhu piece causing the sunflower to blast Wayne with might of the sun and nature. The beam crashed onto the crazed man, causing him to crash onto the ground. Rin floated towards him, seeing if she had knocked some sense back into Wayne. A wall of dust, and debris showered her view, as the impact kicked up lots of rubble. She carefully inched closer to where she thought he had landed. Then a sudden voice called out as they tackled the clueless Rin. “GET DOWN!” The two crash onto the pile of rocks and wooden framing as they narrowly avoid a shot of red light. Rin turned to the one that saved her, recognising them instantly. “Yuugi?! What are you doing here? This is dangerous, I have it under control!” Yuugi then replied. “Lying to an Oni…” she warned. “Alright fine, didn't expect him to be extremely durable now but for a matter of fact, this is not the same human he was moments ago.” Rin got up dusting herself off, afterwards forming a hand sign causing her scars to glow a bright green that faded completely after, leaving not even a speck. “Ok I understand, but this time let me help-” The large single horned Oni was then cut by a large call. “Two against one? Seems like a fun challenge… I shouldn't have underestimated that instrument player but I would like to have a challenge.” Wayne pulled out from his pocket, a phone. “You have till the song ends, to knock me out!” Wayne then turned on the app, then a surge of magic flowed into his phone causing it to glow. He punched the ground, causing the underground slate to vibrate and quake, behind the inhuman engineer formed a mechanical quadruped with a tower at the front reaching towards the heavens, its right arm holding a spear and six glowing white eyes showing the two in brightness. “...Like Antennas to Heaven.” The monstrous construct roared, an electrical wail, sending chills to even the Oni beside Rin. Afterwards Wayne then dropped his phone. A reverberating tap, then it settled, the still on. On the phone’s screen was a white and black image. A monstrous tower, looking down onto a small figure on a black wasteland. At the bottom, were the words in bold…
War Without Reason.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Second Act: Fantasy, Reality.
Chapter 4: The Only Way It Could Have Ended…
The song started, like an engine burning its fuel straight from hell, or an old steam train chugging uphill to certain destruction, there was a cacophony of the wails of sirens, a sound which was unfamiliar to Rin and Yuugi but akin to souls crying and begging. A chuckle rang out as Wayne muttered the words. “...Like Antennas to Heaven.” Afterwards beams of light, each with multiple colours struck the ground, each pulsating with great energy. “I've seen this magic before…” Yuugi stated. Before Rin could question, the pillars started shooting out rings of projectiles at varying heights. Yuugi and Rin flew up, narrowly flying over an orb of electricity and just under a ball of fire. “I'll take him head on, but knowing what power he has might prove futile…” Yuugi stated as she strafed to the right dodging a mass of water. She then took off as Rin shouted “Yuugi wait, you we have to work together!” though to her dismay her message fell on deaf ears. Rin then yelped as she spun to the side, grazing a continuously exploding orb. Sheesh this magic is stronger than I thought. After recovering from a close call, she steadily made her way through the constant stream of orbs all with different colours and elements, careening in all directions. Through multiple close calls, the underground doctor somehow managed to weave through the never ending barrage of projectiles being thrown throughout the Ancient City. She then became witnesses to the sight of Yuugi confronting the rampaging Wayne. As she approached closer she began to hear the voices of both the Great Oni and Wayne. “For someone with such a grand title as yours, you don't seem strong enough to handle protecting your own people!” Wayne taunted Yuugi, who was gnashing her teeth repressing her own temper. “You do not disrespect the Four Devas of the Mountain. Even with your magic… ” Yuugi spoke, and afterwards took a deep breath. She flew around a stray orb of electricity as Wayne spoke once more. “You know about this power? Interesting… Well I'm pretty sure you know how weak you are compared to me. But I challenge you to prove your worth, maybe I'd respect you. ” Yuugi’s temper finally snapped at the offer of a challenge. “IT’S ON!” She yelled as the oni rocketed towards the grinning Wayne. “YUUGI WAIT NO!” Rin cried out, but to her dismay her cry fell on deaf ears. She watched as Yuugi held her balled fist out, barreling towards the not-so-human floating still. The oni yelled as she came closer to Wayne, but as she was about to land the devastating punch she suddenly stopped dead, right in front of the empowered. “ Just like a raging bull, HAHA.” Wayne said with a laugh, he then summoned a pillar of flame from below, normally fire wouldn't even burn the hair of and oni’s skin. But this wasn't ordinary flame… Rin watched as the Mountain Deva got thrown towards the heavens by an eruption of pure furious, blazing energy scorching her milky skin morphing it into a charred burnt ash. Wayne’s neck then snapped towards the underground doctor who then felt a pang of fright pour inside of her. “Well… I'm giving you a chance, go ahead pitiful doctor ” Wayne spoke, his mouth curved with the smile of the devil. He then snapped his fingers, causing all of the pillars reaching the heavens to be pulled down under. Rin knew she had to go all out, She gripped Hansho tightly, the bowstring twitching with every quickening breath she took. I can't do it… but I have to. Rin thought to herself. Guess I'm forced to prove these rumors of me true. A bright flash of light crashed towards Wayne, who which blocked the simple attack with a shield of earthy, metallic light“Is that all you can do-” He was suddenly cut off from his usual taunting, a blur of light so bright it cleansed the unholy air of the former eternal prison which landed straight on his face knocking him backward. The manic Wayne then corrected himself mid flight, looking up he saw Rin but something was different about her. Her pure clean dress, now adorned with golden decorations, rims, and ornaments akin to a fire burning all with retribution. Under the skirt a tail now sprouted, filled with both golden scales and fluffy white fur. Then on her head, not only her bow had been turned from sweet cherry to a golden covenant, but a pair of antlers grew from her head, engulfed in an ever-holy flame. “I'm not just a simple doctor… I'm Rin Satsuki, The Holy Ember.”The music suddenly shifted, from the war cry of sirens and engines, to a melancholic piano singing a story of extinction. One where all gore may glisten, upon the temples of all that walk the earth. “Heh, so you finally decided to go all out. Well then entertain me. ” Wayne then summoned a column of horizontal colours, Rin then flashed in a spark she was gone then again in a flash, a blinding flame then blitzed towards the megalomaniac striking him, he reacted quickly but failed to dodge as a flame of purity crashed onto his arm pushing him back. “ What is this…” Wayne then spoke, gripping the area where the punch had crashed into. “The holy flame of the Kirin, shall cleanse your tarnished soul and free the true consciousness. Let go of the human you incarcerated, malevolent youkai.”The once human looked at the Kirin who floated in front of him with the grace of light. He then suddenly arched his mouth to a wide, toothy grin. “I won't! ” Wayne then slashed the multicoloured blade on his wrist towards Rin, streaks of elemental light evaporating into what charred air had gotten into the former hell. The sharp unnatural blade nicked the tip of Rin’s face, letting a golden nectar drip out before quickly sealing itself. “Hmph, I guess I shall break these chains myself, and place them on yo-” The kirin was cut off by a straight beam of chilling flame striking her chest knocking her back. She grimaced at the pain of the absolute zero, and the hellish flame striking her so suddenly. “ NONE… NONE SHALL BIND ME NO MORE.”Wayne suddenly summoned multiple replicas of himself, all flowing with different elements in the purest of forms. He then stretched out his right arm, multiple sparks of elemental energy rushed out evaporating into the air around. Soon the dwellers of the underground had learnt the Risk of Rain . A storm of not just water, but fire, disease, matter, and even power that Rin couldn't understand. Thick multicoloured clouds laid carpet on the ceiling of the underground. On the left hand club of iridescence formed, a furious grimace now painted the man's face. “ WHO WILL SHATTER FIRST.” Suddenly multiple darts of elemental magic streaked through the magically tainted air. Rin quickly strafed, akin to lightning striking the ground. But before she could react Wayne appeared in front of her and swung down the solid piece of magic. Rin quickly thrusted her flaming fist forward, clashing with the blunt form of magic. The impact sent out a large amount of energy, quaking the land beyond. Rin quickly spun around, now behind Wayne she threw out a golden punch, the holy flame burning the soul. The impact sent the madman flying towards the ground, the impact caused many of the city to collapse and crumble. A jolt suddenly gave him back his consciousness. The dark limbo he had been imprisoned to, till the end of time. Had it been, days, months, years, centuries? He didn't know, all he knew was that it was an eternity in here. Looking around him he saw the same streaks of colourful light, the same sight he saw before shutting down. Suddenly he felt the world rumble… then, a click. The chain of elements that binded his neck, severed and shattered into the silent abyss. He knew he had a chance, he had to break himself out. Wayne had been pinned down before, he won't let himself be pinned down by ‘himself’. He felt around his own mind, for a mental handle, ledge, or anything he could grab onto and begin to take control. What felt like minutes passed, then he felt something like a lever he pulled it, but it was stuck. Maybe if I just push a little more… Suddenly multiple images of light are shown. What seemed to be him, fighting that nurse?! He had to help her somehow, in any way he could.He observed his doppelganger’s movements, taking note of the multiple points he can hold on to if needed. Soon, he saw the nurse, the doctor cornered by countless beams of light. As his fake was about to strike, he pulled on every single node he could move in order to save the girl… Why is it doing this? What does it want ? He questioned himself then with a sigh he said out loud. This really is a War Without Reason… “ARUGH… ” Rin watched in surprise as Wayne suddenly jolted in pain. “ That bastard, how is he fighting back… ” Rin quickly took the opportunity to somehow commit a roundhouse kick in the air, the flames seeping into his soul and mind once more. “ Ngh… YOU PEST.” Wayne suddenly fired a beam that came vertically, Rin barely dodging it. “I had enough of this… ” The music that was still booming in the background, shifted from a tragic violin, to sounds of electricity, and instruments unknown to Rin. Wayne then began to summon lighting from the sky, the streaks of static imbued with the elements. Suddenly the ground began to rumble, as an enormous metallic worm burrowed through the underground as if it were water. “ Fire.” Ordered Wayne as the mechanical monstrosity somehow formed from magic fired beams of consuming flame towards Rin. She then quickly formed a shield ignited by holy flame, as the beams crashed onto her barely holding. Suddenly the worm disappeared as if it never existed, as Wayne appeared right behind her. “...Right behind you.” The kirin looked in shock as a blade imbued with the elements flew towards her. She braces for the impact as a loud sonorus warcry is heard. “YOU WILL PAY FOR WHAT YOU DID TO ME AND YAMAME!” Suddenly a wooden bucket strikes the head of Wayne with such force, it sends him to the ground crashing into the warm yet wet slate. The music shifted from the sounds of electricity and static energy to the wails of sirens once more. Rin looked at her saviour as she recognised the individual. “Kisume? What are you doing here-”As Rin was questioning, two other individuals arrived at the scene. “Hey sis! Thought you might need a helping hand.” Orin spoke and Yamame flew from behind.“Oh Orin, Yamame? What are you guys doing here? “Helping the ‘human’ doctor with whatever is going on here…” Yamame answered as Rin flinched at the mention of the name given by her master. “Still sour about our names?” Rin asked with, with a sheepish nod from Orin. “Oh wow, more participants… This will be interesting.”As Wayne raised his arm the music shifted once more, from the wails of sirens to the sound of clashing drums in a beat. multiple pillars of elements form around the area, all shining with an aura of light. He then punched the air with his left hand, normally nothing would happen but the fist then crashed into the air forming a crack in the sky, causing multiple orbs spun around him in a spiral as the crack sealed up. As suddenly as the music shifted it did so once more, now a steady spinning electric tune. “Let's dance…” Wayne then caused the pillars of elements to form outlines, all spinning in different directions before solidifying into walls that stretched to the heavens at different intervals of time. “Holy fuck…” Rin said in shock, nearly being clipped by a wall of raging flame. “Everyone spreads out, his attacks are very unpredictable!” Orin shouted. The four youkai nodded at each other, focusing on avoiding the attacks Wayne threw out. This went on for what felt to be days, as the maddened Wayne hadn't expended any fuel in his burning fury. “What are we gonna do, we can't hit him with these walls in the way!” Kisume shouted “I so wanna scoop out that human’s frontal lobe and cut off his-” the girl in the bucket then yelped at the sudden appearance of a solidifying wall in front of her. “Kisume’s right, we need a distraction…” Rin agreed “I'm not sure how this will help but…” Orin then suddenly stopped just in front of a forming wall of water.
| Cat Sign “Cat’s Walk” |
Orin declared as a blue puff of smoke appeared, as the cloud had disappeared it had been apparent she had turned into a cat. The kasha then started hopping towards Wayne, every leap a ring of bright blue glowing projectiles dispersed from her every jump. As she approached ever closer to Wayne the man then took notice, evading the slow moving projectiles causing the pillars to stop solidifying walls of elements. “ Oh the vermin is trying to hit me, with such amateur methods of attack?” Orin then winked at Wayne, as with another puff of blue smoke she turned back into her humanoid form. “I would worry about your back first, bro~!” the kasha said in a playful manner.“Wha- ” Suddenly an ethereal golden flame struck Wayne once more, burning not his skin but scorching his very soul, but unlike the last time was followed up by a kick straight to the face. The man was knocked back a bit, now holding his face as if it stung as if someone sprayed ethanol on an open wound. “ I ’ ve had enough of this… ” Wayne then flew up next to the head of the now metallic monstrosity that loomed over the Ancient City. Once he reached the top the music shifted tones once again to blaring sirens with such volume it shook the cavern from slate to soil. The face of the young empowered man contorted into a furious gaze, one that would surely kill any human who even stepped within his gaze. “ SCREAM VERMIN.” He shouted, the noise echoing through the cavern as the music shifted for another time to the rapid beat of drums and a melancholic guitar. Suddenly multiple apparitions of himself, made of pure elemental light charged at the four youkai at such speed one would think they are manipulating distance. Soon multiple slashes of light appeared as the apparitions of the insane disappeared, prompting the four to fly into different directions avoiding the mass of slashes made of the elements. As the amount of cuts and slashes caused by the elemental apparitions increased, the group knew that there was nothing they could do, it was either fight and get cut down or flight and risk whatever youkai Wayne had planned with the large tower. The man they now held out both arms as a sigil, adorned with the colours of the spectrum appeared aimed right at them. “Now for the grand finale- H- ey! ” Suddenly Wayne was cut off from his statement as the multiple lights started to flicker. “ YOU… I SHOULD HAVE E- But you didn't- Stop! Not until you give me my body back-” Rin immediately recognised what was happening. “The real Wayne is fighting back, his human soul is fighting his essence as a youkai.”The music transitioned for a final time, to a guitar and piano, played in a dramatic fashion. Accompanied by the rapid beats of drums that had been part of the song for the entire song. In the midst of a self-struggle. The four noticed the ejection of beams and projectiles, varying at speeds, length, and width. “His control is unstable, we have to be careful, one last hit will burn the bindings of his human soul.” Rin said as she flew into the eye of the storm. “Seems he has a barrier of some sorts.” Yamame mentioned. “Well shit, my flames can't do well on magic barriers.” Suddenly Kisume appeared next to Rin. “Maybe I can? I can control some very hot flames.” “That's too risky Kisume, your hell flames don't have much range!” Yamame warned. “Hm… Maybe.” Suddenly Yamame shot a web at the shield protecting the storm, then forming a sort of thread around Kisume’s bucket. “Kisume, when I shout , cut the webbing!” Yamame said. “Wait, didn't you just say I shouldn't get close?” “I know it's kind of contradicting, but I bet with enough physical force the barrier would shatter, as it's made of unstable magic. So I want you to crash into it and swing your cleaver.”With the mention of her sharp cleaver, Kisume instantly agreed with the idea. She afterwards cut off the tsuchigumo’s thread, rocketing herself towards the barrier that surrounded Wayne. As she approached she then suddenly swung down her cleaver, which was comically larger than her head onto the barrier shattering it almost instantly. “RIN, NOW!” Kisume yelled. Just like lightning, Rin struck hard and fast, the final punch landing and the music reached its crescendo, fading with an electronic wail, and Wayne seemingly passing out on the rubble below. “You… I wi-ill ge-et you next t-t-time…” His alternate spoke in his head, echoing throughout his cranium. “We shall see about that.” Wayne mentally replied, as the world around him blacked out, falling into the abyss of rest once more...
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Second Act: Fantasy, Reality.
Chapter 5: Hall Above Sacrilegious Remains.
“You sure he's alive, I would looove to throw him into the blazing fires!”
“Yes he is, he has a pulse.”
“Well I guess Lady Satori would like to take a look at him, as I'm pretty sure what just happened definitely caught her attention.”
…
“...prepare a guest room, I would like to talk about what’s in his mind once he’s functional.”
“For someone not so big, he sure is heavy…”
“Lady Koishi, please don't turn him into a pincushion your sister wants him alive…”
“Awuh… “
…
“So that's the ‘human’ who caused the rain?”
“Yes, Okuu… now stop trying to chew on his toy.”
“Mhp- Wah?”
Orin woke up, in a groggy manner blinking off the sleep in her system. Gosh it's been a while since I've been put to much work… The previous night was hectic to say the least. Having to prevent the residents of the former hell from mauling Mizuchi’s shattered self to bits, and convincing the refugees that the ‘human’ who intervened then caused much trouble and damage had been sedated. Then afterwards quickly surrender the evil spirit to the yama, as apparently she was absolutely shattered barely able to spout a single coherent word. Safe to say Orin had seen better days. It wasn't often youkai lacked sleep, and it was just one of those rare days where the kasha would do nothing and sleep like a cat. Literally. But she was entrusted by her master to take care of the. ‘human’ she had brought home. So after streching the sleep off her small legs and paws, she lept of the cat bed landing on two legs with her humanoid form. After preparing a meal at the kitchen, with the guide from a book given by a maid from the surface she then placed the meal on a small cart, rolling it down on one of the numerous decorated hallways. After reaching the door labled. “‘Human’ named Wayne” she gently tapped her knuckles onto the door’s exotic wood. *Knock* *Knock* “Hellooo~, you awake in there~?” Orin asked, to without a response. *Creak* The door opened slowly. “Huh, still out… guess I'll leave this here just incas-” Suddenly Orin heard shuffling from behind, followed up by a muffled groan. “Ughh… my head…” Wayne then pulled down the covers there were haphazardly splayed on him. ”Uh…” The man said, confused. “Take it easy, my master said your mind is still healing from what just happened.” Orin said as she offered him a meal. “Thanks… uh.” Orin smiled as she responded “Rin Kaenbyou, but you may call me Orin. Also you're welcome” Wayne’s mouth contorted into a sheepish smile, his memory of the past hour still hazy at best. Being upfront with a youkai cat wasn't helping the man calm his still shaky nerves. “So… any idea of what had happened and where am I? Last I remembered that spirit struck my head…” Orin let out a sigh, expecting this would happen as warned by her master. “As I said your mind is still recovering from a traumatic experience, and will take some time to remember what had happened. Orin then got a spoon, scooping a modest amount of liquid from the soup she had made. “Now open wide~!” the kasha said, feeding Wayne who wasn't expecting to be spoon fed. “It's not everyday a kasha helps someone recover!” Wayne suddenly perked up from the mention of kashas, Orin noticing the reaction. “Say, you know a lot about youkai for an outsider. How's that?” Wayne took a moment to swallow the warm yet steaming soup before explaining. “I have a younger brother who was always into that stuff, even got me involved with some ‘rituals’ with a friend of his before our parents stopped them from wasting salt.” Orin chuckled a bit. “Humans are still dabbling in the supernatural it seems, not to the extent we need to live of course.” Wayne let out a sigh chuckle then sighed. “Well is there any way out of this place?” Wayne questioned, knowing it wasn't likely. “I'm afraid that you will have to talk to a shrine maiden who lives on the surface. Though the weather in the blowhole is at its worst in years, it's a miracle that you somehow weren't crushed to dust by flying boulders…” Wayne frowned on the revelation, now home sick and… He missed his family's return… he, he had missed it. Orin suddenly had to catch Wayne, his body fell onto her as he began to sob uncontrollably. Orin tried her best to comfort the man to her credit, managed to stop him from bawling there and then. But she was still dumbfounded on what had happened. As Orin was about to question, Wayne raised a hand as he opened his mouth. “...I'm alright I-Its just… I ended up in this land the day they were meant to arrive, my family I mean…” Orin seemed to look at Wayne in a manner she hadn't done to anyone besides her master. “Can you tell me about your family, what exactly happened?” the kasha calmly asked. The young man let out a long, heavy sigh before explaining. “My family had left for another place, as my father found a great job. Sadly we were one person too many for all of us to go, so I volunteered to stay, moving from my hometown to live with my uncle. The day I arrived here, was the day they were meant to return.” Wayne then leaned on the pillow, resting his back on the bed’s frame. “Can't believe a youkai of all things is comforting me right now.” Orin let out a small giggle as did Wayne. “Hey, youkai also have emotions and attachments!” Wayne then returned a solemn smile. After a few minutes of Orin feeding a human she stood up and pointed towards the door. “I should mention that my master would like to see you about your situation, and perhaps jog your memory about what had just happened.” Orin explained as she finished spoon feeding the young man. “Oh I guess we should go now, don't want to keep her waiting.” Moments later, Wayne and Orin emerged from the room as the door closed with a soft click. “I think I should also mention that my master… has some prejudices and manners.” Wayne’s glowing eyes which have returned to normal but still keeping its shifting colours, looked onto Rin’s slitted and blood filled eyes in a calm but curious manner. “Um, what about her?” Orin took in a lung full of air as she explained. “So with your knowledge of youkai, do you know what a satori is?” Wayne nodded as he responded. “Your master is a satori?” “Yep, they aren't the most appreciated folk…” Wayne understood what the kasha meant and was going to say. “With a previous incident someone shattered her pride, and she got sick by reading the minds of people constantly. She has physically recovered then but hasn't been nice to others, especially humans. She might be extremely rude, cutting you off with her ability to read your mind, and have very outlandish assumptions. But trust me she's a kind person underneath all that.”Wayne smiled at the kasha who was seemingly looking out for him. “No need to worry, I can handle myself. Though it's kind of odd that someone who could eat me at any time is reassuring me of my safety.” Orin chuckled at the statement. “Well welcome to Gensokyo! This land is no stranger to the bizarre and mystical. And besides I rarely eat humans anyway.” The comment on the consumption of humans had churned Wayne’s stomach a bit, causing the kasha to smirk with a malicious smugness. “A-anyways we shouldn't keep your master waiting.” Wayne said, failing to keep himself from stammering. “Hehe, you're fun when you aren't driven with maddened rage! Don't worry about us eating you, we get our own supply from somewhere else.”With that statement Wayne kept quiet, albeit with a nervous expression on his face which kept Orin amused with a smug look on her face. The two continued to walk down the long hallway, decorated glass panes lit the mildly dim walkway with multiple colours with crystal ornaments seemingly reflecting the solemn candle light that provided just enough light to see. “...Say, you haven't told me about yourself. I would like to see how’s it like in the outside world.”“Well despite the fact we don't have to worry about being the main prey, humanity has managed to make the world still such a struggle even with the advancements of technology and systems we use.” Orin looked at Wayne with a confused face. “How so? You all seem to have it good. I remembered the old days when I only dragged down the deceased bodies of malicious souls to hell. People really feared youkai back then, some ran away in fear when they saw me. A cat with two tails just doing her job.”“People aren't as superstitious as they once were. In today's outside world most believe in facts and logic that are more widely accepted than some rumor spread by a drunken individual. Most take their time looking into a topic finding the most logical meaning. But there are other parts of the world that have a slightly more traditional belief.”“Other parts of the world? All I know is that this place was once part of Japan and two distant lands called China and Korea but I've only heard it from the mutters of people at funerals.”“Trust me, there are much, much more. But to continue, people love to find anyone else an enemy if they don't agree with them these days.”“Heh, I guess there's one thing that hasn't changed.” After that statement, the two chuckle as they approach a large wooden door, adorned with material such that it was unknown to Wayne with a symbol of an eye plastered on the center. As the young man was about to speak, Orin raised her hand towards him signaling him to stop. She then looked at the door with what seemed to be focus, and intent just like how one engages in a conversation. Suddenly a voice echoes through the harded, charred coloured wood. “Come in.”Orin then pushed the heavy looking door with such ease, such that Wayne’s reasoning was deciding on either the material was surprisingly light or that Orin is surprisingly strong. The room was fairly dim, only illuminated by a solem purple, and melancholic lavender light that shone through the stained glass window that was plastered on the wall across the room. The man felt uneasy, yet still walked forwards. “Don't worry, take a seat” the voice spoke. Wayne soon then took a seat, across him was a modest desk, handcrafted yet refined in it's structure. It looked elegant. Across the table was a large chair, its edges and sides cut and deformed into decor, as the sprinkled gems glimmered with piercing light. The chair then suddenly moved, turning as whoever sat on it turned to their visitor. “I'm Satori Komeiji, pleased to meet you Wayne Benjamin Wilson Aikawa.” The girl with fair lavender hair, bright blue dress, and a pink rose patterned skirt said. What was surprising about her was the numerous fruity red, and sweet yellow cord-like veins that scattered around her body, twisting and turning attached to different parts of her body with heart shaped organs, a piece of the cord seemingly tied to a noose. Their cords were all connecting to a single organ, a large soul piercing eye. “Hm, wow that is surprising even for me. I thought nobody believed in the supernatural in the outside world these days. But here you are with some understanding of one of my pets, and me.”Wayne tried to speak but remembered who, or in this case what he was talking to.“Well at least someone understands the futility of speaking to a youkai such as me.” Satori squinted her eyes, placing her head on the support of her hand while tapping on the table. “Well I know what you want, and it aligns with what I want. The human mind is interesting when it comes to trauma, it loves to either hide it and remake it into an understandable and comprehensive story.” Then the satori leaned forward. “Or you forget it entirely.”Sensing the question in Wayne’s thoughts Satori cutted the man off his questioning thoughts. “Oh it's nothing much, just a little bit of digging through the enigmatic landscape that is your mind.”As Wayne began to protest, he was cut off by a voice in his head. “Now, would it be rude to not repay a host for their generosity?” the man then saw the girl hold up her large hanging eye, as he looked into it the iris began to glow a menacing violet, followed by a explosion of thoughts. Wayne’s mind felt weighed, as like a dam had been breached.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Second Act: Fantasy, Reality.
Chapter 6: Underworld Tension
“Now let's uncover these memories affecting you and him... ” The world turned violently like a tornado, its eye in the mind of the man. His thoughts were disorganised, jumbled and incoherent. All he could ever think was the fact he couldn't think. Suddenly all at once, he felt what was his world speeding up, he braced for anything that could happen. He felt it, someone in the distance he anticipated it. He knew it, what it was… Then impact.The now dazed Wayne then opened his eyes. Thoughts, and memories floated in an abyss floating in the great void that was his mind, filling it akin to stars in twilight. The world was hazy, his vision lacking the ability to discern a single speck of the chaos around him. Yet despite the clutter and storm, this felt dreadfully familiar to him but he was ignorant on why. Then a familiar voice called to him. “Wayne, could you answer the door for me?” Wayne's heart sank at the familiar voice as he muttered. “M-mom?” Wayne walked around, now able to make out his bearings. He saw what was laid around him, bright red sofas fluffed with such comfort it gave warmth to his sight. The air, cool yet warm thanks to a gentle flame under a house of hardened clay. It was nostalgic, it was very… very familiar. But then a knocking from the door shattered the warm comfortable air, with a deathly chill in the wake of the warm heated atmosphere. Another voice came out and spoke. “I'll get it instead, Wayne’s busy reviewing his college entrance exam.” The man heard footsteps as a person quickly skipped to the door at the end of a plain, monotone beige hallway. He recognised the individual, that being his brother. “Hello?” The person opened the door slowly, questioning who could be their visitor. A tall man towered over the young boy, as he spoke with a low, yet booming voice. “I have business with your grandfather, is he here?”Visibly shaken by the man’s appearance which was shaded by a cloud of smoke and ash, the only visible feature was a drama mask with a dark frowning face. The young boy then spoke. “He’s still ou-” *BANG* “ANDREW!” Wayne cried in boiling stew of fear, guilt, concern, and shock. He fell to his knee, his eyes tearing in guilt. “I-I'm so, so sorry…”Andrew or what appeared to be a apperation, fell onto the floor his blood staining the sterile flooring that gave a warm atmosphere. He was clutching his leg, as faint echos of a distant yet distraught filled memory faded from the conscious sight. The world began to distort around the distraught man, who then watched as someone tackled the assailant, then his mother and sister coming to the aid of his younger brother. The man fell to tears but was stopped as he was jolted awake in a different place. Is this a dream? he thought to himself. As if the world answered his question a voice rang in his head. “Don't mind me, just digging through these interesting memories.”Wayne was about to protest until he saw, a familiar sight slowly manifesting through haze. A dimly lit sidewalk layed ahead of him, as the large unhappy clouds were bpouring all it had onto the mixture of stone and processed elements. The local shop’s windows and door, all boarded up and closed with its metallic barriers indicating it to be far, far past the time to rest. The only noise Wayne could here was the sound of the raging droplets that struck from that heavens, and the ever obnoxious stammering of the fluorescent glowing sign, that was in a twilight of on and off. Suddenly a voice rang through the empty streets, angrily shouting at a familiar child. “Hey little shit, handover everything you have now. Or shall we take it by force.” A boy shouted at a kid. Who was now stammering in fear, his words a potluck of lag and plain gibberish. “What’s that small stock?” The boy grinned “You're pathetic? Heh, well yes you ar-”“HEY!” Wayne turned around to see the voice. A boy, no taller than him ran up to the little kid who sat there in fright. He stood infront of the child and stared directly at a the leading assailant. “Kenzo it's alright, I'm here…” he ushered to Kenzo in soft and quiet voice, his eyes unwavering towards the boys. “Kenzo…” Wayne felt a sense of deja vu, had he been here before or was it all a dream, yet he kept watching holding a familiarity to the situation and voice of the defending boy. “You think family can save you? You are so naive to this world…” The lead assailant suddenly smacked a large metal pole onto the head of the familiar one, ringing a loud bonk throughout the storming night. It then suddenly came back to Wayne, it felt like as if the world itself had crashed into him. As he then shouted “KENZO!” Wayne dashed towards the now defeated boy and Kenzo. “D-DON'T YOU EVER HURT MY LITTLE BROTHER OR FAMILY EVER AGAIN!” Wayne cried, his iridescent filled eyes glistening as tears trickled down his face. As he approached the two assaulted boys, he readied his arm as he prepared to smack the leader of gang. His fist flew in the air, the wind brushing off it as it glided through the damn, and cold air. Yet as it landed, his arm phased through the tan skin of the perpetrator of the attack. Wayne stumbled unable to react quickly enough to the situation. As he had fallen the faint sounds of sirens where heard which grew ever close, yet sounded distract. As he got up he saw the old, empty and forgotten street in the old heart of the rising sun fade away into a swirl of memories and colours. Then suddenly a surge of light ejected towards the surroundings, washing the abstact mess of a sight to one of such stillness it would make one tear. “W-what a seal? This isn't possible such a stupid human wouldn't be able to block me ou-”*cough* “All memories were interesting so… I think I'll leave it at that for now.”Soon the still white plane faded into a dim, but menacing and condescending room he had recently been in. Now on the floor, reeling from spectating his traumatic events with no method of prevention. He looked up to see the smug looking Satori, towering over him her face reeking with pride and satisfaction. “Orin, go get him a meal for this poor soul and send him back to the guest room. I'll prepare his tasks for the time he's staying here.”Just before Wayne could pass out, he managed to make out the kasha then picking him up then placing him on a cart. Orin then silently whispered, aware of her master’s presence and mind reading. “I'm sorry…” *Clap* “Hey!” Someone yelled, jolting the knocked out young man from his restful sleep.“AH-” Wayne suddenly recognised where he was, then looked to the one who called him “Ori-” Wayne questioned but was cut by the kasha as she placed a small table and a plate of food and hopefully clean water, then spoke in a strong and authority filled voice. “Here’s your meal human, Lady Satori has instructed me to teach you the chores and schedule you shall have for the time you stay here.” The man wasn't sure if he was talking to the same person due to the tone of her voice but was seemingly answered by a sudden shift of tone and mood. “And… I extend my apologies for my master’s actions, I expected her to do this but this much-” Wayne suddenly replied with “I-it's alright, I know she's troubled so I understand her…”Orin smiled for the understanding this human had, even to those who ate his kind. “Also just a hint for you. If she ever asks you to go to her room around meal time… please call me.”“Sure….” Wayne didn't like the sound of that warning. “Well then guess I can teach you the tasks you will do on a day to day basis while you are here.” The kasha then stood, her twin black feline tails softly swaying as she reached her arm out. “Guess it would be better than have nothing to do, wouldn't want to freeload afterall…” Wayne accepted the offer and albeit a bit reluctantly, reached for the hand of the kasha as he stood up. The two then walked down the winding halls of Chireiden, each door and room holding a mystery one would never know. One thing that had puzzled the young man was how cold it was in the palace, for something in what used to be hell would be extremely sweltering. “Oh, if you are wondering about why it's cool here there's a lot of evil spirits that were left over when hell moved, so they just lounge around living thier eternal punishment if you know what I mean.” Wayne just nodded in understanding. “Alright here's the kitchen, and where you will be for the time being.” Orin said as the two entered the dining area and kitchen. “You are to assist me in cleaning and washing the dishes around here…” the kasha’s ears drooped a slight bit as she said “And maybe help set up some meals for my master if you could. My cooking skills are mediocre at best and I know she's praising my cooking to make me feel better… but I would like to serve her a tasty one if it means I need some outside help““So it I'm basically gonna be your assistant?” Wayne clarified, as to make sure he understood. “Yes, that's about it. Do you agree, well there isn't much of a choice is there.” Orin replied, leaning on the shining counter. She then raised her hand forward towards the contemplating man. “Well I do have a bit of kitchen experience… so it wouldn't be a problem. So I agree and accept.” Wayne shook the hand of Orin. The kasha then smiled, then spoke. “Less problematic this turned out, I thought you'd refuse to work especially with the incident yesterday.” The cat-like woman chuckled “Well It's not like I have a choice anyways.” Wayne replied“I should prepare lunch for Lady Satori now. If you want I can show you the kitchen, though be warned about the human corpses in the large freezer.” Orin then walked behind a large counter as she slipped on an apron. “It wouldn't be a problem… Just hand me back mobile phone.” Wayne followed, albeit a bit apprehensively “What’s a ‘mobile phone’?” Orin questioned, her tails arched in a curved confused yet curious manner. Right, this place is a mix of the present and past… this will be tougher than I originally thought… Wayne sighed as he went on to explain the world behind the window. “Well it's an old recipe from my grandfather.” Said Wayne said, as he looked at the shining screen of his phone. “I recorded the recipe from when he told me once, and did a little observation myself on the method.” The man then flipped a meat patty, the metal spatula he held flinging the piece of meat into the air. The patty then landed on the opposite side it once was, sizzling on the scorching iron a perfect golden brown glistened on the surface of the meat, the oil glazed and shining. “Didn't know that you were actually quite decent in the kitchen, thought you'd be kinda worse.” The kasha intently stared at the golden aromatic patty. “This also doesn't feel Japanese.”“It's because this is not, it's a from a place in the outside world called America” Wayne answered as he flipped the meat patty once more, then added a miniscule bit of salt. “Funny is, I'm not fully Japanese.”Orin’s face and ears turned to a confused look, as she leaned onto the counter. “Hm? You seem pretty Japanese to me. Trust me I've eaten, and stolen the corpses of numerous individuals over the decades.”Wayne internally cringed at the latter part of the statement “Well I'm a mixed bag of English, German, and Japanese. Those races of humans on the former come from a region in the outside world called Europe.” Orin then chuckled and said, well I really should have check up on the outside world more. Never thought I would meet a human as interesting as you”Wayne then chuckled a bit before saying “If you could even count me as one.” The two both chuckled as the man placed the patty in between two freshly baked buns, seasoned and glazed in cooking oil. “Not sure if she would enjoy this.” Wayne spoke, unsure if he did a good job. “Should I add some greens or some sauce or something?”“We have a lot of sauce called ‘ketchup’ from the outside world recently. She always wanted to try it but never found it compatible with Japanese cuisine.” Orin stated. The man perked up as he replied “That's perfect for it!” Then quickly realised the fact he didn't know where it was stored “So uh, where is it located“I can fetch it for you if you want.” Orin offered her assistance, Wayne noticing the helpful body language of the kasha beside him. “Sure go ahead, I'll clean up a bit here.” Orin bounced from the shining marble counter, as she zoomed off to another room.Despite being a man eating youkai, with a occupation of stealing corpses. She really is a nice person underneath that layer of blood… Wayne thought as he then shut off the electric grill he had been using for the time he was cooking. The man then grabbed the spatula, guiding the still raging golden residue into a small container for disposal. Waiting for Orin to return, and the grill to cooldown he grabbed his phone and opened a music player. | Now Playing: Please Hold - Jono |The man with the slight boost of motivation from the playing audio, packed away the rest of the materials and ingredients he had used to create his attempt at a meal. He returned the array of meat patties the residents of the former underworld’s palace in the smaller freezer, making sure he wouldn't open the one that contained stuff he wouldn't like to see.Soon the kasha returned to the kitchen with a shining bottle filled to the brim with red paste. She then noticed the distracted Wayne who was just about to finish his self-assigned duty. “Why are you listening to hold music while you're clearly working, and how are you playing it?” Orin questioned the unaware man, whispering into his ear. This practically caused the poor guy’s soul to shoot out of his body. “YOU DON'T GET TO DO THAT!” Wayne shouted back at the snickering kasha, who was very amused by the scare she gave onto the man. After calming down from the sudden scare Wayne collected his thoughts, and answered the question Orin had given in a spine crawling way. “One, you know this song? Two, it's my phone I should really teach you about modern technology sometime.”The curious kasha then took in the bucket of information, leaving the sealed red bottle on the counter. Wayne then snatched the bottle from the counter, popped of the cap, then started a annoying struggle on removing the airtight seal.The kasha leaned towards the head of the man, with this time him noticing. “Kinda looks like blood. You sure you wouldn't mind cooking a few meals using human meat?” Orin said jokingly as Wayne finally freed the sauce bottle from it's nearly unbreakable barrier. “Always have to remind me that your youkai, and no I will not cook humans we agreed to this like fifteen minutes ago.” Wayne chuckled as he lifted the top gilded bun, spreading the sauce onto the glistening gilded patty. “It's not my fault youkai have to be feared to exist. And besides, I wonder how well you'd do considering the meat on this thing smells great!” Orin replied with a sharp toothy grin.“W-Well it's It should be done I guess we bring this to Satori.” Wayne said, obviously startled by the sudden show of hunger from the kasha.“It's Lady Satori to you mister!” Orin reprimanded the man who scratched the back of his head. “Right I'm her servant till I get a chance to leave…”Wayne placed the meal onto a silver platter which sat on a cart. Orin then pushed the cart ushering him to follow along. “Come along, she would like to see the man in person who made her a meal. Even if she could just read it off my mind.”Not like I have a choice to begin with. Wayne tagged along the kasha, unsure if fate would reward him a four leaf clover this time…