Chapter 3 - Prey Of The Dragon

It's been a whole day since the last Hero's party liberated New Hart Town in East Haven. They decided to take a day to rest before they headed to their next destination in North Haven. Hiromi spent the whole day doing sets of workouts and helping village folks with various errands. Endra simply stayed with her and relaxed her damaged body whenever she got the chance. Barden spent his day with Yukihime, gathering any sorts of medical supplies they thought they might need. Elsia tended to the caravan's mighty steeds and shopped for the food supplies. A few kilometers out of town Ace was with T.J. giving him a crash course on the ways of battle.

Ace: Hmm... So you're wielding the mightiest sword in the world, yet you've managed to disable it's killing edge.

T.J.: I don't know.. sometimes it cuts, sometimes it doesn't. From what I know though, you're right about disabling it's killing edge. I don't think I've fatally wounded a single opponent.

Ace: It sounds like you've evolved far enough as a wielder of that sword to will it's edge. For the most part when you battle, you only aim to disarm and knock out your enemies. However when it came to corruption beasts you've had no hesitation to cut them to shreds.

Neimi: It's cause those beasts are hardly living anyway. They're simply extensions of the Cyber Devil, mere puppets. No life force what so ever within them. T.J. doesn't have to feel guilty about felling any of those jerks.

Ace: But you've even held back against the corrupted humans correct?

T.J.: It's cause.. they were still people ya know. When I saw Endra tear the first one into pieces.. I was shocked... Not so much that she did it, just shocked to see a human torn to pieces right before me. It was the first time I've ever seen that. I felt that underneath all that corruption still lied a human. I felt that... they deserved to be freed.. and put to rest properly... not cut down as a shell of their former self being controlled by a devil.

Neimi: It's such a classic tale.. An individual with so much power and unlimited potential to be the strongest, yet he is so soft and squishy on the inside. A genuine strong person both inside and out! It only makes me that much more happy to be contracted with you! You're nothing like my other partner. Cat is so brutal he makes Endra look like a saint.

Ace: T.J.!

T.J.: Yeah?

Ace: You are a compassionate young man. When I look into your eyes I can see the soul of one who has been dragged through many trials. You've been pushed to the very limits of one's sense of right and wrong. Yet, I'm not sure what it is that keeps you on the so called side of right. Something you cling to, keeps you from taking the blade to your fellow man. You will encounter foes by the hundreds.. who will tell you that your compassion makes you weak. I'm telling you now, any normal person can throw away their compassion and become the perfect soldier. Any normal person can fight another to the death when his own life hangs on a thread. It takes a whole different world of true strength to hold on to your compassion in this world. Don't let any of them take it from you. Right now.. with how dark this world has become, that compassion you've got. It's the light people are gonna' need in order to see straight. It's the light that's gonna have to guard Hiromi when she faces her darkest days. The moment you lose that part of you.. You won't be fit to be Hiromi's Guardian anymore.

T.J.: -He laughs softly- Quite the long winded speech..

Ace: What do you find so funny about my advice?

T.J.: No it's just... You remind me of my father.. (I guess I sorta' based you off of him...)

Ace: Hahaha.. well then, sounds like your old man knows what's up!

T.J.: Thanks for all the words of wisdom Ace.

Ace: Of course.. Overall I'm still kind of new to the Dad thing so don't expect too much from me. What of your parents T.J.?

T.J.: There... not with me... (I do miss them..)

Ace: I'm sorry I asked.. It's rare to find.. any survivors... from the... Southern Cross.... (Don't tell me I...)

T.J.: I lost them only a few days back... If anyone was to blame.. I suppose it would be that Cyber Devil.

Neimi: -Gasp- Why that! I'll make sure that he personally pays for taking your Mom and Dad from you T.J.!

Ace: Yes.. As will I. T.J... If you ever need some man advice or anything. You can always come to me!

T.J.: Hahahahaha!! Oh that totally sounded like my Dad!

Ace: -He smirks-

T.J.: Thank you Ace..

Neimi: Yeah and no need to worry! I'll personally make sure T.J. never loses his light! Heheh.. ehh sounds corny when I say it out loud..

Ace: I'll hold you to that claim Neimi.

Neimi: Heehee!

T.J.: Thanks for all the training too.. I think now I understand how to wield this sword more effectively now. Aren't you supposed to be training Hiromi though?

Ace: What are you talkin' about? I already set her up for the day. She has to do 10,000 push ups, punches, kicks, back flips, and 500 laps around the town. All while helping any townsfolk who ask her, or anyone who looks like they need assistance. She's getting a physical workout and learning to be more Hero like around the people she's claiming to save.

TJ: So basically you're having her do chores and workout all day so you don't have to do anything...

Ace: When you put it that way you make me sound like a lazy teacher. If anything I'm working double time training two brats.

T.J.: Heheh..

-Meanwhile in town-

Hiromi: -She's panting on the ground- I don't think... I'm gonna' make it in time...

Endra: Maybe if you did less errands and focused more on the training.

Hiromi: The errands are part of the training, Endra.. I have to be the hero, on all levels of the title.

Endra: Well then, stop complaining and keep working.. Have you finished all your punches and kicks?

Hiromi: I did all those already! Easy.. However... I'm only at 7642 push ups... I've only done 65 laps around the town... and my arms and legs already feel like jelly..

Endra: And the back flips?

Hiromi: Eeeeeee!!!! I forgot!! Endra!! I didn't do a single back flip! I haven't even started! I haven't even started Endra! Ahhhh!! -She pulls her hair- If I don't finish in time! Master Ace is gonna flunk me on the first day! I'll be branded a failure for life!

Endra: ...

Hiromi: Or what if he penalizes me! Makes me do 20,000 push ups! I hate push ups Endra!! I hate them! Every time I go down my boobs get presses against the ground before I'm even low enough to count it! These stupid things are too damn big!!

Endra: ...

Hiromi: -She sobs- It's like some divine deity purposely shaped me to be appealing to the opposite gender... No matter how much I train these things never burn off..

Endra: ....

Young girl: -She runs up panting- Oh my goodness Lady Hiromi! please we need your help!

Hiromi: What's wrong?

Young girl: It's my brother. I was picking flowers out in the fields when we were ambushed by Paradise Army grunts! I managed to get away but if you don't hurry they could kill my brother! They were beating him when I ran for help!

Endra: How far?

Young girl: About maybe a kilometer or so!

Hiromi: Let's go!

Hiromi picks herself up and begins to sprint in the direction the girl said to go in. Endra naturally followed close behind her. The young girl also ran behind the two. They were expecting an all out fight on the fields again. However when they seemed to be far out from the town there didn't seem to be any sign of anyone. No soldiers, no beaten kid, not even signs of any sort of interactions on the field. Hiromi continued to look all around.

Hiromi: Were we too late? Did we go the wrong way?

Young girl: No I swear it, it was right here in this very spot.. This is the spot!

Endra: -She noticed the girl's voice cracking-

Young girl: -She vanishes from where she stood-

Endra: -She quickly lunges towards Hiromi and meets with a vicious elbow to the left of her stomach, the single strike lights up her eyes as she is unable to recover and hits the ground-

Hiromi: -Gasp- Endra! -She goes for a backhand on the girl-

Young girl: -She takes the hit to the face but immediately explodes into a cloud of smoke that drops a bag of wheat with a crudely drawn face sticking out it's tongue-

Hiromi: Huh?

Voice: Man... I was gonna follow that up with something cool like, This is the spot... where you die!!!!! Hahahahahaaa... but damn your bodyguard sure is sharp, Miss Last Hero.

Hiromi: Who are you?

Voice: I am soooooo tempted to just burst out in a flashy intro and tell you but, that's just not very Ninja like now is it Miss Hero Woman?

Hiromi: Are you with the Paradise Army?

Voice: Confidential my sweetie!

Hiromi: (Endra's still down, she's not even moving... that hit was meant for me.. She's so fast, if she launches another attack I won't be able to stop her... there's no time to wait..) -She grabs the source orb and her body is engulfed in a fiery vortex-

Voice: Ohoho... Comin' right outta the gate.. I like it!

Hiromi: -She emerges in her Fire Heart form- I'm no match for you in my normal skin that's for sure...

A whirlwind stirs and a small dust devil of grass and leaves appears before Hiromi. When the wind disperses there stands a mildly tall woman with a seemingly voluptuous build. She wore a short cut hoodie and baggy ninja pants. Fishnets over what would be all of her exposed areas. The hood over her face as well as a clothe over her mouth. All you could see of her face were strands of blue bangs and piercing white eyes. Pupils almost as white as the iris. She stared down the fiery hero and took her battle stance.

Hiromi vanished into flames and the ninja vanished into air. They collided at high speeds. The ninja pulled her blade from her back and swung at super speed with wind charged into it. Hiromi countered and parried every hit with fist and arms covered in flames. At about the seventh clash the ninja's blade cracked and snapped against Hiromi's fiery fists. She dropped her weapon and was now in full evasive mode. Hiromi pushed her back with furious rights and lefts but the ninja woman was able to safely dodge each of her attacks. The ninja dodged one of Hiromi's punches and caught her arm. She delivered a strong kick to her gut causing her to hunch over. She followed with a strong elbow to the top of Hiromi's head. Hiromi fell to her knees but the gleam in her eye was a confident one. She quickly grabbed hold of both of her opponent's ankles and began to give her the giant swing. When she released her, she flew and again turned to a cloud of smoke leaving behind a bag of wheat before she hit the ground.

Ninja's voice: Whew great lord Sky Orca! You are way stronger than before! I don't think I can beat you now.

Hiromi: Don't be afraid little girl.. (Ugh.. no can't let my ego go crazy again! For all I know she could still be holding back. Trying to butter me up so I let my guard down. Stay focused, stay aware!)

Hiromi then heard the sound of blades from behind her. She turned and dozens of little kunai cloaked in wind aura headed straight for her. She jumped to the side, she then saw that they turned in mid air and continued to seek her out. She then took her stance and one by one she swatted each and every one of the kunai to the ground. The ninja appeared above Hiromi dropping a heel kick straight to her head. She quickly held her arms up and blocked the strike. To Hiromi's surprise a copy of the ninja woman appeared right in front of her and drove a clean right fist straight into her gut. Hiromi spit out her air and her arms dropped from her block. The Ninja still above her flipped backwards and delivered a strong straight kick to the middle of Hiromi's back. She rolled across the ground and quickly grounded herself. When she looked up again she saw what appeared to be seven of those ninja women.

Hiromi sighs in frustration and then takes a different stance. Her body begins to glow red and her energy begins screeching as she burns brighter. Her eyes gleam with a bright swirl of all the warm colors from red to yellow. The air around her igniting into small flames from time to time. [Heat Rizer]

She grinned and gestured the Ninjas to attack her. All seven of them accepted her invitation and rushed her at once. Hiromi one after another easily parried and struck every ninja. They all turned into the bag of wheat that was becoming famous in this fight. Hiromi tried to focus with her heightened fired up senses. She locked on to her she was in a tree some distance away. Hiromi placed both of her palms out and focused her energy. A small ball of fire formed in front of her hands it then quickly erupted and became a massive ball of flames. Hiromi pulled her arms up and raised the ball high in the air. It looked to be connected to her hands by a flaming chain. She swung the massive ball back down and it went soaring downward towards the area of her opponent.

The ninja's eyes widened as she stared what looked to be a small star headed right for her. She jumped out of her tree and ran for her life. The massive ball collided with the ground a huge explosion occurred. [Morning Star]

Ninja: Okay I get it!! -She appears behind her holding her hands up- You.. are way too strong for me as you are now. I have no choice but to play mean cards like this.. -She points over to her fallen friend-

Hiromi: Hmm? -She looks over and sees that one of her copies has a hold on Endra and another is pressing a blade to her neck- Wha? When did you!? (I couldn't sense her even with the Heat Rizer senses..)

Ninja: Now, now, Miss Hero. I may be a dirty, lying, cheating, no good, uhh... aside from the point. I may be a rogue but I am a rogue of my word. Just do as I say.. I won't kill your friend. Hell I won't even kill you.

Hiromi: Tch!

Ninja: Come on now... You know how fast I am. I don't really need to kill her.. but I won't hesitate either. Your friend's a tough demon gal all right but I don't think any amount of legion can heal her back from a lopped off head.

Hiromi: Rrr..

Ninja: Just exit your super form thing.. and nobody has to die.

Hiromi: How can I trust you!?

Ninja: Cause you've got no choice... Scenario 1, you refuse my demands, I kill your friend you go in a rage you utterly destroy dozens of my copies while I escape. Scenario 2. You give in to my demands and turn off your power, I lie and kill you both anyway. Scenario 3. Best case scenario and a solemn promise from me, you comply, I release your friend, I leave here with what I want, and nobody dies. Way I see it, you might as well go with the glimmer of hope.. unless your guardian's life isn't worth anything to you. Heh yeah judging by this collar here she looks like a slave demon. Is she just cannon fodder? Hell maybe I'll just take her for myself, she's pretty cute!

Hiromi: Shut up! Just shut up! Endra's not cannon fodder! She's not a slave she's my friend! She's... my best friend. So.. I'll do whatever you say if you promise me her life.

Ninja: Hey I never lie when I make deals! It's like my one code of honor or whatever..

Hiromi: Fine... you want me.. to revert right?

Ninja: Yes Ma'am.

Hiromi: -She reluctantly releases her power, her outfit turns into flames and reverts back into the source orb on her waist. She then stands back in her normal state- It's done..

Ninja: Whew! Hah! See now I can take you down no problem! Those orbs and the Hero transformations are somethin' else I'll tell ya.

Hiromi: ...

Ninja: Don't look so scared Miss Hero.. as promised.. no harm will come to your dear Endra.. However.. -One of her copies grabs Hiromi from behind in a full nelson- I never said anything about you..

Hiromi: I was aware of that..

Ninja: Ahhh I promised no one would die though Hero Girl! So don't worry.. -She thrusts two open palms right into Hiromi's stomach-

Hiromi: Gah!! -Her eyes feel heavy as she blinks rapidly and falls limp in her foe's grasp-

Ninja: -Her copy drops her to the ground, She then kneels down and takes the source orb from her belt- Ahh here we are.. Heheh.. that was dangerous.. I may have to ask for an increase in price due to life hazards.. -She stands up- Well... later Miss Last Hero. -She turns and begins to strut away in victory-

It was close to sunset and when T.J. and the rest of the party realized that they've not seen Hiromi or Endra for a long time they grew worried. Everyone began searching through the town but found no clues. T.J. had Ryo search for them with his nose. He barked up a storm like he was trying to get someone to follow. T.J. and Ace stayed near him and he continued down a path. Ryo led them out of the town and straight to the fields where both Hiromi and Endra laid unconscious. T.J. and Ace quickly got them up and carried them back to town. The medical team worked on them over night at the inn they were staying at. T.J. held onto the worried Ryo as he sat in his room waiting for some sort of update.

It got later and later but still no update on anything. Eventually a knock on his door. Ace walked in and informed T.J. that for the most part everything was okay. He told him to get sleep and that all would be put into perspective in the morning.

When the sun rose up on a new day T.J. was up earlier than usual. He walked over to his window and saw Elsia pulling a cart of feed for their Sabergoose. He quickly ran out of his room and tried to catch up to her. When T.J. got outside he saw her still slowly pulling the cart. He ran up to her and offered his help. She tried to refuse at first but T.J. eventually just got beside her and helped with the cart.

Hiromi woke up and sat up out of bed. She looked around in a panic then realized she couldn't really see anything. Endra placed her glasses over her face and then Hiromi could see again like normal. She saw Endra standing by her side wearing only her undergarments. Hiromi's face looked as if she was about to cry and she hugged Endra tightly around her waist and nuzzled her face into her stomach.

Hiromi: Ahhh Endra you're okay!

Endra: Yeah I'm fine... You seem to be feeling better..

Hiromi: Uhh.. I guess..

Yuki: Ahh wonderful.

Hiromi: Yukihime! I probably have to thank you huh?

Yuki: -She giggles- I suppose.. Barden and Ace deserve your thanks as well.

Hiromi: How did we end up back here? How long have I been out!?

Yuki: T.J. had Ryo search for you. When they found you T.J. and Ace carried you back to the inn. You two were struck by a strange type of poison aura. Ace said that whoever attacked you injected a type of poison needle generated from the user's own mana. When it enters the body it disperses into your blood and instantly affects you. It wasn't lethal though it would have had you knocked out for over two days if we didn't extract it and give you an antidote.

Hiromi: That explains most of it.. That ninja woman was much stronger than General Fero.

Endra: She won't get to do that again... My body adjusts to poison after I've been afflicted by it. Should we fight her again I'll be immune. Unless she's got a whole mess of other poisons..

Hiromi: We're going to fight her again..

Endra: Hmm?

Hiromi: I've never felt so outmatched before.. and I hate it! She doesn't look like she could be that much older than me yet she was experienced far beyond me. I need to beat her..

Endra: Heh.. true, she won because of in depth planning. I'll praise her for that. Cunning is the best way to close the gap when you're out powered.

Hiromi: Besides.. she took the source orb...

Endra: -Sigh- We'll get it back Hiromi.. We've gotten it back before. We'll do it again.

Hiromi: Yeah..

Yuki: Cheer up you guys. We're all still alive and we're all still healthy. As long as we have that we can always get back the source orb and continue the journey.

Hiromi: -A smile grows across her face- Hmhmm Yeah you're right, Yuki!

By late morning Elsia and T.J. already had the caravan ready for departure at any moment. The entire party gathered at the inn to discuss their next move. Having no real way of tracking down the orb thief they decide to stick with Hiromi's original plan. Her next destination was in North Haven. She had heard tales of the mighty General Hydroyle and his Tower Of Despair. As well as his possession of the Terra source orb. Her best case scenario was now continuing her journey on schedule and maybe finding her orb thief along the way.

No one was opposed the plan and within an hour or so, the party was headed north. It was a long journey that saw the sun set and rise multiple times. Constantly moving, and setting up camps at night. The company constantly talking among themselves and keeping the journey lively. They were about half a day away from the nearest town when the current nightfall hit. The group decided to camp one more time before they made their landing in their first North Haven town a town called Three Leaf. Late into the night most of the party was going off to sleep. A few of them remained up later simply sitting around the camp fire. Hiromi in particular seemed as if she was lost in a daze staring into the flames. T.J. grew a bit concerned and decided to try and snap her out of it.

T.J.: Hiromi, you must be pretty tired.. Ace had you running most of the way north. You should maybe go to sleep already.

Hiromi: Hm? Yeah I guess.. I was just... I don't know..

T.J.: Is there something you wanna voice?

Hiromi: It's just that.. every night I stare into our camp fires.. and start kicking myself over losing the source orb ya know.

T.J.: You're gonna' have to get over that.. We'll get it back.

Hiromi: It just means a lot to me... All the source orbs are sacred to my people, but the fire one in particular. That's the one closest to my heart.

T.J.: It's the one your family guarded right?

Hiromi: Yes. The colony of heroes were divided into seven different clans. Each of the clans safeguarded a source orb. Wait, you're from the Southern Cross too so I'm sure you know all about this.

T.J.: Heheh.. More or less yeah.. But I'm not of Hero heritage. Just another scrub human. (I don't know everything. It's pretty amazing how this world is so similar to my own but it seems to already have a rich history like it's a real deal place that existed for millions of years..)

Hiromi: A scrub human who's wielding the legendary sword. Heheh... It's not often I meet another survivor from my country! What part were you from TJ?

T.J.: The east..

Hiromi: The one side I've never visited. No wonder I've never met you.

T.J.: -He laughs- Even if you did what would have been the chances.

Hiromi: Yeah I guess.. In any case.. I'm glad I got to meet you now.

T.J.: Me too..

Hiromi: Thanks for letting me talk about it a bit. I feel a lot better.

T.J.: Of course. If you still have more you wanna say.. I'll listen.

Hiromi: Heheh.. I'd like to sometime again. You were right though... I'm pretty tired.. I should go to bed..

T.J.: Good night.

Hiromi: Night... -She turns and starts to walk towards her tent, she stops for a moment and turns back towards T.J.- Hey T.J..

T.J.: Yeah?

Hiromi: We should make a habit of this.

T.J.: This?

Hiromi: Yeah, talking over the camp fire.. Next time you have to tell me some stuff about you! It'll be fun. From now on whenever we have a fire.

T.J.: Sure...

Hiromi: Okay! I'm looking forward to it. -She goes into her tent-

Neimi: -She waits a while until she thinks she may be asleep- Hmm.. T.J. If I didn't know any better.. I'd say she kind of likes you.

T.J.: Sure she does.. as her friend and guardian.

Neimi: Don't be dense!

T.J.: I ain't being dense. Look I know what you're saying.. Let me enlighten you to her situation. She's a young girl who had her whole life destroyed at a young age. No real home she was on the run and training for years with her only two friends, a demon woman and her chiwu. It's probably the first time she's been able to interact with someone around her age for more than a couple days. She's simply enjoying my company to the fullest because she's never had the company of someone close to her age. It's just a coincidence that I happen to be a boy. You're over analyzing her..

Neimi: Pfff! You give me that long winded explanation and say "I'm" over analyzing her.

T.J.: Besides.. even if she did "like" me.. It would still probably fall under the same circumstances.. I'm the new boy.. She's interested in me. Once she learns more and more about who I am. She'll grow tired of me. It's how all the girls treat me.

Neimi: That's a load of bull T.J.! Ya know why? Cause Barden and Elsia are here. She doesn't look at them the way she does you.

T.J.: ! (Damn the fairy's got a point actually....) Huh... Dah I still chalk it up to new kid syndrome.

Neimi: Whatever T.J.. Just so you know, I'd never friend zone you!

T.J.: -He looks at her with his eyebrow raised- Eh?

Neimi: -She grins- Heheh!

T.J.: I think "you" might need to sleep too..

Neimi: I don't sleep.. It's so boring when everyone is asleep...

T.J.: Sucks for you, Neimi.. cause I'm goin to sleep..

Neimi: Awwww.... well g'night..

T.J. went into the tent he had to share with Barden and picked a side. He curled up in a sleeping bag and let himself go off into dream land.

When the sun rose up on a new day the Sabergoose made tons of noise in their restless hunger. The group got up and started their morning rituals. They eventually had their breakfast and packed up the caravan for the final stretch of this current crawl.

It was about noon when they reached Three Leaf Town of North Haven. This town was free of corruption and was full of citizens doing their daily things. The people seemed lively and many. It was bigger than New Hart Town by several kilometers of area. However this town seemed to have Paradise soldiers around in various areas. The north was still clearly under Leviathan's control. The Paradise Army had yet to make any sort of wanted posters for Hiromi's group so they figured they could keep a low profile. The party all went in different directions whether to restock or explore.

Due to the events that took place before, Ace and T.J. were stuck to Hiromi like glue as they traversed the town. Ace then asked the party if it was okay for them to stop by one of the pubs. Nobody seemed opposed to the idea so they went along with it. Ace thought if there were any place to try and dig up information on the thief as well as the condition of the Paradise soldiers in this region there'd be no better place. The party walked through the doors and naturally many eyes were on them. Endra had Hiromi and T.J. sit with her at a table while Ace asked around. After some time he came around and joined the group at their table.

Ace: No info on the thief. However I did dig up some dirt on North Haven's situation.

Endra: Like what?

Ace: The Tower Of Despair being full of more criminals than ever. So much that they called in some extra Generals to help Hydroyle keep it together.

Endra: How many extra Generals?

Ace: Two from what I hear.. Genral Megistro, and General Wade..

T.J.: Ugh..

Ace: Makes your skin crawl huh?

T.J.: He almost killed me.. what do you think?

Ace: You're stronger now though, T.J.. You'll kick his ass next time.

Hiromi: You actually look kind of sick just from his name being said.. are you all right?

T.J.: Yeah..

Neimi: That guy tried to catch me too.. He's such a creep.

Hiromi: What!? He almost killed poor T.J. and tried to catch Cutey Neimi! I'll flatten his face for both of you next time I see that pretty boy!

Endra: Hiromi..

Hiromi: Yeah?

Endra: Do you still want to attempt taking out Hydroyle's stronghold.. even knowing He's got back up now.

Hiromi: Why not.. I can get back three source orbs in one shot if we do this. Three Generals versus us four we have the number advantage.

Ace: Not really... you seem to not be counting the hundreds of soldiers at their command. Not to mention a lot of Hydroyle's troops are Gargoyan just like he is. Also if Megistro and Wade brought their troops there's also archers, seryverns, spear men, summon beasts, mages, and mage knights in their ranks.

Hiromi: Aheheh.. boy uh.. you really make it sound a lot harder when you put all that into perspective Master Ace.

Ace: And what? You guys faced one General, twenty men, and five beasts last time. Amazing as that is, this is at least thirty fold.

Hiromi: But you're here now, that makes us like a hundred fold.

Ace: -He pounds the table- Enough! Don't overestimate my abilities. I'm still just one man.

Hiromi: Yes sir..

Ace: That's not all that's bugging me though.. I'm hearing stories about some guy named Dragnauk.

T.J.: Dragnauk? (Yet another name I'm not familiar with as far as important people go..)

Ace: They say he's a Drakin, and a super nasty one at that. They went as far as to say he's the most powerful Drakin on the planet.

Endra: Their race is powerful indeed. Though most Drakin are peaceful.

Ace: I hear he's been getting on Leviathan's good side. So much so that he was being given the entire Haven continent to rule over.

Endra: He must really be on Leviathan's great side if he's gonna' let someone else run a whole continent.

Ace: Yeah, some of these guys are saying he's in the North right now. Guy sounds dangerous. Hiromi, if you really have your heart set on liberating North Haven.. We're either gonna need more fighters.. or craft an incredibly sneaky plan for us to take the Generals out one by one. I'd suggest we head to another region for now and maybe do the North side last. If they placed this much firepower up North, the West and South can't have too much comparatively speaking.

Hiromi: Man.. I'd hate to pass up the chance for all those source orbs... But I think you may be right, Master Ace. The Tower Of Despair can wait. We'll continue west and see what we can do there. Hopefully.. I can recruit more powerful people to join us or maybe form an alliance with a resistance group.

Ace: That's the way to think. Good job apprentice.

?: Speaking of resistance..

The group look up to the source of the voice and they see a tall man wearing an all dark blue uniform and a soldier's cap. A revolver on his right side waist and a saber on his left. Black bangs drooped over his dark green eyes. He had a stern look on his face as he glanced down at the party. Ace's face smiled as he seemed to recognize the man. He shook his hand and had him take a seat at their table.

Ace: Everyone, this is Captain Azrael Graves of the South Haven Resistance. He's also an old friend of mine.

Azrael: It's a pleasure. You young woman. You must be the Last Hero.

Hiromi: That's me! I'm Hiromi.

Azrael: All of us in the resistance support you and your journey one hundred percent. Madam Hiromi, if there's ever anything you think I could help you with please feel free to ask.

Hiromi: All right. Heh! Thank you, Captain Azrael.

Ace: That one there is Endra, she's a pact demon and quite the sharp warrior. The young one is T.J., a traveling writer who happened to pull Victoria from it's sleep.

Azrael: My word.. this young man pulled the legendary sword before the Last Hero could?

Hiromi: It's fine, I'm plenty strong enough on my own. Plus it got me a cute swordsman under my employ!

T.J.: (Cute!?)

Azrael: I see.. so the Last Hero, a legendary sword wielding lad, a powerful demon warrior, and you Ace. It seems the Last Hero's company is a growing force to be reckoned with.

Ace: You're a long way from South Haven. What are you doing here?

Azrael: To meet all of you naturally. I received word that the East was liberated by the Last Hero and her company. I also heard that Ace Blitzkrieg had joined them. I raced to New Hart as fast as I could but heard you had already left. I heard you went North so I followed your trail.

Ace: How'd you reach so fast? Is Fairwynn still alive?

Azrael: Of course, He's not yet gotten that old, Ace. You should see him if you have time.

Endra: Fairwynn your mount?

Azraal: Yes, a Dawnwing to be exact.

Hiromi: Ooohhh... I want a Dawnwing...

Endra: We'd need a few if we wanted to move the entire caravan.

Hiromi: Ahhh nah... the Sabergoose are great for now.

Ace: Azrael... What do you know about this Dragnauk guy?

Azrael: ...Dragnauk.. He's a disgrace to his kingdom.. He's a disgrace to this whole damn continent..

Ace: That bad?

Azrael: From what I know.. He used to be the retainer to the Queen of North Haven. He loved his queen.. more than any retainer is supposed to. However she never returned his love. From there I suppose he waited for his spot. When Paradise first Invaded Haven.. they came from the north. When the war began, Dragnauk murdered his own Queen and handed North Haven right over to Leviathan. Dragnauk then continued to work as the shadow of death in his ranks. On the surface the Paradise Army fought in all the countries, but behind the scenes in the cloak of night Dragnauk murdered all the rulers of the Haven Continent. The whole reason Leviathan conquered Haven so fast was because of Dragnauk. Now it seems he's finally going to claim his reward.

Ace: How strong is he?

Azrael: Strong as a Paradise Warlord.. if not stronger.

Ace: That powerful?

Azrael: I battled him once Ace. The gap in our skill was laughable. The fact that I managed to escape... was nothing short of a miracle. Bree and Wendee were the only other survivors of that battle. I don't wish to tangle with Dragnauk ever again. At least not until I've become much stronger.

Ace: For an opponent to leave that much of an impression you.. You're by no means a weak man Azrael.

Hiromi: How strong is the Captain?

Ace: I'd say about as strong as a Paradise General.

Azrael: Tch.. maybe once upon a time.. Ever since they got those source orbs.. they've gotten too damn strong for me to keep up. Damn pricks..

Ace: Thanks for all the intel on Dragnauk, Azrael. We'll try to avoid him for now.

Azrael: You'd best be doing that. For Madam Hiromi's sake. I do believe if Ace were to get him one on one he could take him out.

Ace: Tch.. right.. I'm old now, Azrael.

Azrael: As am I, old friend.

Ace: So did you only track us down to catch up with me?

Azreal: Of course not. My main objective was to make the Last Hero aware of me and the resistance. You can all use needlewing messengers to contact us. Anything you may need, extra mounts, food, intel, spies, soldiers. Simply request them and we will try our best to answer the call.

Hiromi: Soldiers! Master Ace! We could-

Ace: No! Asking for that now is practically ordering a bunch of soldiers to die. We stick to your first plan. We liberate West and South Haven. We get as strong as we can and recruit more willing Guardians. Then we ask the resistance for help before we take on Hydroyle.

Azrael: I see.. yes that sounds like a great plan! After the South is liberated we'll gladly send all of our best soldiers to aid you in the battle for the North.

Hiromi: Okay.. You're right..

Azrael: Ace.. I'll have to be leaving soon.. There was one more matter I wished to speak to you about..

Ace: What's that?

Azrael: Word is.. You killed General Fero.

Ace: What?

Azrael: Yes from what I hear he had Madam Hiromi on the brink of defeat before you crashed down on him and ended his life.

Ace: That's almost true.. I did drop on him, but I did non-lethal damage. Are you telling me.. Fero's dead?

Hiromi: -Gasp- What?

Azrael: Yes.. and whoever finished him has pinned it on you. I didn't believe for a second that you killed Fero..

Hiromi: General Fero..

Ace: He was.. an old friend. I'd never resort to killing Fero... Sounds like an inside job..

Azrael: Sounds like the type of work Dragnauk would do...

Ace: No.. from what you told me Dragnauk's a shadow that follows Leviathan's orders.. Leviathan would never kill his own man. Specially Fero, he was close to him. This sounds like the work of another General or a Warlord that wants to put me back on Leviathan's radar.. Either because of a personal vendetta, or just to mix the pot of chaos. In any case.. If I'm being pinned for Fero's death. That's gonna make me extremely popular in Paradise again. Thanks for the heads up.

Azrael: Your family is my family, Ace. There's no need to thank me. Please give Madam Yukihime and Young Madam Ciel my regards.

Hiromi: Umm Captain Azrael.

Azrael: Yes Madam?

Hiromi: You seem to know a whole lot of everything. Could I ask you about a person?

Azrael: Anything at all. I will aid you to the best of my ability.

Hiromi: Endra and I.. were attacked the other day by a young female ninja. She was much stronger than me. She managed to defeat us and she stole the source orb of fire. She was loud and extremely arrogant! She was mostly covered face wise, but her hair was blue and her eyes were white. Her boobs were pretty big and her hips were massive. She seemed to favor wind type attacks.

Azrael: Hmph! Sounds like You and Madam Endra were targeted by Shiiva Mist.

Hiromi: Shiiva...Mist?

Azrael: She's a thief for hire and a damned good one at that. She's also about as strong as a Paradise Warlord I'd say. Depending on the country She has bounties in the millions. From what I know she only takes thieving jobs. She'll steal pretty much anything if she like's the payout. You say she stole the source orb?

Hiromi: She did..

Azrael: Hmm.. then I'll begin an investigation on her client.

Hiromi: Hm?

Azrael: Odds are she's already sold the orb to whoever may have hired her. I'll make a report and have some of my best diggers find the intel we need.

Hiromi: Thank you Captain!

Azrael: It's the least I can do. I must be heading back south. Please all of you be careful. Till we meet again. -He waves a salute to the party and leaves the pub-

Hiromi: Captain Azrael is pretty cool!

Ace: Hahaha! I'm surprised he didn't blush once while you praised him. You'd be surprised how shy he is around people. It was amazing how comfortable he seemed around you all.

T.J.: Probably cause you were here. It's easier to loosen up when your around people you trust.

Ace: True..

Hiromi: He gave us a lot of info. I hope he tells us things we need to know every time we see him!

Ace: The guy's like the ultimate gossip queen. The whole thing about Fero is pissin' me off though... If I become a bigger target that puts my family in the exact danger I didn't want them in to begin with.

Endra: We should make haste and reunite with the whole group.

Ace: I agree.. there's a lot to discuss.

The party left the pub and eventually they all met back at the inn. After discussing everything the group was now up to speed with the plan. Everyone seemed to be readying themselves for the long journey ahead of them. After the meeting Barden began to bring up a something he felt he should share.

Barden: Hiromi..

Hiromi: Yeah?

Barden: While I was shopping with Elsia.. We passed by three different vendors who were sold out on bags of wheat.

Hiromi: Bags of wheat? You mean like..

Barden: I had asked if they were some large group of travelers or an event of sorts. The vendors told me that they were all bought out by a single woman.

Hiromi: You don't think..

Barden: It could be a coincidence.. but I figured that I should let you know for sure.

Hiromi: What do you guys think?

Ace: If Shiiva Mist has passed through here.. It's worth looking into.. For all we know Leviathan could be the one who hired her to get back the stolen orb.

Hiromi: What if there's a slim chance she still has it?

Endra: Even if she did how do you intend on finding her? Even if we started searching now our chances would be pretty weak.

T.J.: ..We could have Ryo try and find her.

Hiromi: Hm!? We could?

T.J.: Yeah, Elsia and Barden gathered all those bags of wheat that she left behind It should have her scent on them.

Hiromi: You guys did!?

Elsia: I figured it was free food for the Sabergoose...

Hiromi: Those stupid bags with the stupid faces on em'!

Elsia: Heheh...

Endra: It's a good thing they did, we're lucky she didn't dispose of the bags..

Hiromi: Ha! She was probably too damn smug to think we had a Ryo on our side!

Ace: This may actually work, we have to be careful though. If she's as tough as Azreal says.. we can't just charge after her when Ryo gets the scent.

T.J.: Plus if she's a ninja she'll probably sense you guys from a mile away. I think... I have an idea...

Ace: Oh?

T.J.: I'll follow Ryo by myself.

Hiromi: What?

Neimi: Absolutely not!

T.J.: Why? She already knows you two as the Last Hero and her demon. I doubt she'll wanna be in the presence of Ace Blitzkrieg. I'm a virtual unknown. I can blend right in as just another scrub. She won't even suspect me at all. I'll just be some guy who lost control of his energetic puppy. That's assuming she's even here at all.

Ace: Heh.. the kids got some points there.

Hiromi: It'll be dangerous by yourself though..

Endra: Heheh.. the plan's got guts. I say let T.J. do it.

T.J.: I can do it... plus like I said we don't even know for sure if it's her.

After a few more minutes of debating Hiromi decided to let T.J. carry out his plan. The crew grabbed one of the wheat bags and had Ryo catch the scent he needed. Ryo seemed to have it memorized he ran up to the door and scratched at it. T.J. let him out and so began his chase. Ryo kept his nose the ground and slowly walked down the town streets. T.J. followed behind him paying close attention. He barely even kept up with his surroundings. His whole focus was on following Ryo.

Ryo began to speed up. He barked a couple times and was now chasing the scent. TJ was surprised he had no choice but to follow him. If they really found Shiiva he was going to have to remember to be a cool random person. Ryo finally stopped and sniffed at a woman's shoe. He barked a few more times and growled at her. T.J. ran up behind him and picked the barking pup off the ground. He looked at the woman nervously and apologized. She was in a long dress and wearing high heels. The dress was tight so her voluptuous figure popped right out. Her body seemed to match Hiromi's description. She was wearing dark glasses and a hat so he couldn't see her eyes. However she had long blue hair that stretched down her back. With the Ryo suspicion plus all the other pieces seeming to fit T.J. had to figure this woman was none other than the rogue, Shiiva Mist.

T.J.: Ahaha.. I'm so sorry miss.. He's usually more well behaved.

Woman: It's fine.. animals hating me is like my life story. Doesn't stop me from thinking he's a little sweetie.

T.J.: They must just be a bit jealous of how pretty you are.

Woman: Oh my.. Why thank you. You know how to make a lady blush.

T.J.: Yes well.. sorry again for that. -He turns around and starts to walk away- (Jeez even in normal clothes this chick seems really intimidating to me...)

Woman: Farewell... and do give Miss Hero my regards..

T.J.: -He froze and slowly turned to face her- (How the hell? She already knew...)

Shiiva: -She smirks-

T.J.: You know.. yet you're gonna let me walk?

Shiiva: There's no reason to slay a weakling..

T.J.: -He scoffs- All right... I can accept that..

Shiiva: Can you? You look kinda' angry.. Tell me.. did you track me all the way from East Haven?

T.J.: No.. the fact that we're both in this town right now is pure chance.

Shiiva: I see... Yet somehow you found me with a mutt.. How did he get my scent?

T.J.: Why should I tell you anything?

Shiiva: Because not telling me what I want to know may become a reason for slaying a weakling..

T.J.: ....Fine.. We were suspicious because we noticed that bagged wheat was all sold out here. You left some of your escape art bags with us. We simply had Ryo get your scent from one of your bags of wheat.

Shiiva: Wow... I got way too happy after I completed that mission. Gettin' sloppy! All right... I guess that's all for now.. I'm assuming Miss Hero is distraught over her loss.

T.J.: What of it?

Shiiva: Just lettin' ya know I already gave the source orb to the guy who hired me. So there's no need for us to fight again.

T.J.: Who hired you?

Shiiva: Can't be telling ya that.

T.J.: ....

Shiiva: Buuuuuuut, If you want.. I'll steal it back if you got the money.

T.J.: What!?

Shiiva: Yeah, one of my classic double up scams! I'm also a retriever for hire!

T.J.: You dirty..

Shiiva: Whatya say!?

T.J.: I doubt we have the money..

Shiiva: Figured as much... but I know for sure your party has an item we can barter for my services.

T.J.: What?

Shiiva: Victoria of course.

T.J.: What!?

Shiiva: Yeah, you gimme Victoria, and I'll steal back the source orb of fire.

T.J.: Your joking..

Shiiva: Dead serious.. talk it over with your pals.

T.J.: (Actually... this might be a chance..) Okay I'll talk it over with my friends.

Shiiva: You do that. If you all wanna make a deal. I'll be in the cathedral on the west side of town, one hour post sunset. Don't try nothin' funny.. Unless it's ha-ha funny.. I like jokes..

T.J.: Of course you do..

Shiiva: All righty. I'll be seein' ya. -She turns and starts to walk off-

T.J.: (There's only a few hours for us to make a choice. I have to make that enough time for this plan to work..)

After his encounter with the Deadly Shiiva, TJ went back to the inn and talked over a plan with the party. TJ explained that he had a plan to cap on Shiiva's desire for Victoria. All were skeptical at first but with enough back and forth and a few hours of practice it seemed T.J. was able to win over his party. Seeing as this had the potential to be a long night the group decided to dine in one of the town's nice looking restaurants.

The sun went down before anyone really had time to notice. The Last Hero's party double checked everything and went over the plan one last time. T.J. summoned Victoria and placed it in a case. He strapped it to a belt and was actually wearing his sword on his back for the first time. Ace took lead as they headed towards the cathedral. Hiromi and TJ were behind him and Endra was in the back. They reached the spot of said meeting. The building was almost at the very edge of the town. It was still in good shape but it seemed there were no preachers or nuns to be found. Endra scouted the entire area and Ace waited for her report by the front door. When she returned she gave an all clear and Ace slowly opened the door. The group walked in slowly and saw Shiiva simply sitting on one of the benches. Her arms sat across the top of bench, one leg over the other shaking up and down. She bent her neck and stared back at the party with an upside down face. She grinned under her mask and hopped out of her seat. She walked towards the aisle and looked the party down.

Shiiva: Ah. You're all here. So I'm assuming you all decided on something that works out for both of us. Otherwise you're just wasting my time.

T.J.: Yes.. we decided that we'll go along with your deal...

Shiiva: Reeeeeally? Huh.. you really must be worthless if your party decided to sell out your only source of power for a simple little orb that you can replace...

T.J.: There's no use trying stir the pot.. I know I'm not the MVP. That orb means a lot to our Hero. State of mind is important for her on this journey.

Shiiva: Aww.. your boyfriend is so caring!

Hiromi: Shut up! You work for me now! (I'm so gonna' punch you in the face when this is over!)

Shiiva: So first thing's first. Hand me the sword.

T.J.: How do we know you won't just bail on us after I give it to you?

Shiiva: Cause I'm a rogue of my word. Just ask little Miss Hero there.

Hiromi: Tch..

T.J.: Fine.. but if you try anything stupid, you'll regret it.. -He takes the cased sword off his back and tosses towards Shiiva-

Shiiva: Hmmm.. -She approaches the sword and pulls it from it's case. The blade glimmers as she holds the sword up high- Wooooow... This is a fantastic blade for sure. Weird though.. It doesn't feeeeeel legendary... -She swings it in all sorts of directions- It's so light...

T.J.: Pretty amazing right?

Shiiva: -She places it back in it's case- Yeah... I like it..

TJ: (So far so good.. I don't know how long I can manage this trick. Thanks to Ace's tips I learned how to have Victoria continue existing even while I no longer have hold of it. The blade is only an extension of my being. This trick may seem kind of useless at first but I'm already seeing a ton of possibilities for it in the art of deception. Both for battle uses and for situations like this. Until I die, that blade is me and I am that blade. You were never leaving with it whether you get us the orb or not.)

Shiiva: All right.. -She straps it to her back- Deals a deal. I'll be back in a few hours.

Ace: Like hell..

Shiiva: What?

Ace: Even if you are a rogue of your word there's no way we're not keeping an eye on you. We're going with you.

Shiiva: Serious? You're gonna' slow me down and compromise my whole job... The dude I gotta steal it back from is pretty dangerous.

Ace: Like I said, we can't fully trust your word. We simply cannot allow a risk of you robbing us of both a source orb and Victoria. (Plus T.J. needs to remain close to you for his little trick to stay on.)

Shiiva: Meh...

Ace: I know how you guys work... We'll stop at a certain point so you can have your room to do your thing. On the bright side we'll be like.. a safety net if your operation goes wrong..

Shiiva: Hah! As if I'd screw up! Though... having Ace Blitzkrieg in the background as a safety net does sound awesome... fine I'll allow you all to accompany up until I say you all have to stop at a certain point and let me do my thing like he said.

Ace: I think we can all agree on that..

Shiiva: Good, now let's be off my pretties..

With Shiiva leading the way the group leaves the town and heads in a western direction. Within about half a mile out Shiiva whistles loudly and from the night's horizon a huge winged beast appears as a shadow in the moonlight. The massive avian lands in front of the party. It resembles a giant owl. It's feathers all black and silver. The eyes a dark violet hue and it's beak also silver. The giant owl creatures were known as Duskwings and this particular one was Shiiva's loyal mount. She directed traffic at the party and by the end of it Endra and Ace were riding in the clucthes of it's talons while T.J., and Hiromi were on it's back with Shiiva. The giant bird flapped it's mighty wings and took to the skies. The group wasn't sure how far exactly they had flown but within about twenty minutes the giant bird landed softly near a forest. The passengers all got off and Shiiva ordered the bird to fly away.

Shiiva told the group that her buyer's current base was a broken down mill about one kilometer from them. She instructed them to wait at the edge of this forest as a cover. They traversed through the woods and sure enough as they reached the other side there was broken down structure just as Shiiva had said. The current gap between the forest cover and the base was about two hundred meters. T.J. got concerned as to whether or not he could hold his focus from this far away. Ace showed signs of compliance and allowed Shiiva to begin approaching the base on her own. After she got far enough T.J. began to let the others know that she might be too far. Ace urged him to just stay focused as long as he could. When she got far enough they would move a little closer.

Shiiva eventually reached the base. A small camp fire was burning outside and three huge Drakin men were sitting around it. Drakins were a race of people that resembled a Dragon with the stature of a man. Arms, hands, chest, and abdominals like a human. Face, tail, and legs like a dragon. These one's in particular were green scaled and stood nearly two hundred centimeters tall. Their figures were massive like bodybuilders. They all stood up and took notice of Shiiva.

Shiiva: Hey guys! Been a while..

Drakin: What are you doing here?

Shiiva: Hmm.. I came to see Dragnauk, of course.

Drakin: Obviously wench, but why!?

Shiiva: Whaaa? Why? Come on guys we're pals!

Drakin: You would dare!

Shiiva: Dare what? Sheesh you guys.. need to get some dragon ass or something, so uptight!

Drakin: Mouthy little bitch!

?: What is all this noise!?

From the darkness of the mill, a huge Drakin male appears. This one standing over two hundred forty centimeters. His scales red, his build was more slender and his front body scales were golden. Half of the fire orb was sticking right out of his chest. He approached the soldiers and Shiiva with a menacing walk. He looked down on them and scoffed as flames exited his nostrils.

Shiiva: Draggy ol' buddy. How's that orb treatin' ya?

Dragnauk: What do you want?

Shiiva: Ouch... I thought we were buds.

Dragnauk: My business with you ended already..

Shiiva: Fine then.. guess you're not interested in the legendary sword, Victoria huh?

Dragnauk: What of it?

Shiiva: I have it! -She pulls the blade from it's case-

Dragnauk: What the hell!?

Shiiva: I know right... I was gonna' see if you wanted to trade that orb back for this.. but uh... looks like you kinda burned it onto yourself...

Dragnauk: Indeed.. this orb is my birth right! It's no secret that I've always had an affinity for the flames.. the orb has only multiplied my powers ten fold! I'm more powerful than any Warlord now!

Shiiva: Hmmm.... I see..

-Meanwhile by the forest outskirts-

Neimi: T.J.... your sweating pretty bad.. Should we get a little closer..

T.J.: Probably.. It's getting hard for me to keep the sword out when it's so damn far from me...

Ace: Fine let's walk about twenty steps..

T.J.: Okay..

Hiromi: -She holds him up- I'll walk you over, just keep your focus on.

T.J.: Right!

The group moved forward and When Ace made his twentieth step he felt a shock wave of malicious mana enter his foot and erupt through his body. He froze in shock he could feel the power of this person. Like the very ground he stepped on was linked straight to him. The mana he could sense was violent and thirsting for a kill. He could also tell that in him sensing this malicious mana that whoever it was has sensed Ace as well. It all happened in fractions of a second. He felt the blood lust lock onto him.

Dragnauk abruptly stopped talking to Shiiva and a crooked smile grew across his face. Shiiva stared back with a confused look. Dragnauk sensed the mana of a truly powerful opponent. Before Shiiva could say anything Dragnauk erupted in flames and vanished from her sight.

Ace's eyes widened, he shouted to his party to turn back and run. Or at least that is what his brain was planning to say. Ace only managed to say the word "turn" before there was a huge dragon man right in front of the party. Everyone's face grew terrified as the huge dragon's fingers were plunged into Ace's chest. Nobody saw him coming, nothing but a trail of fire leading all the way back to the little base.

Dragnauk laughed cynically as streams of fire blasted through Ace's body and sent him rocketing into the forest behind them. Ace was no longer in anyone's sight and Dragnauk turned his attention to Hiromi. She looked into his eyes and his sheer presence had filled her body with fear. She froze and simply gaped at her powerful enemy. The source orb she wanted back stuck tightly into his chest. Dragnauk raised his fist high and was going bring down his attack crushing the young girl. T.J. acted out of desperation and tackled Hiromi and they both rolled across the ground and evaded the vicious attack. Dragnauk pulled his fist out of the pothole he made. Before he could go back to terrorizing Hiromi He was blasted in his face by a huge right hand cloaked in dark mana. He skid across the ground but he seemed hardly damaged by the attack.

Endra was staring him down. Her hand was singed by his fiery aura even though she had her own energy protecting her fist. Endra's eyes gave off the red glow and she rushed Dragnauk ready to take what he had. Dragnauk accepted her challenge and lunged back at her. They clashed in a series of close range combat. However no matter how many hits Endra landed Dragnauk hardly felt it and she was getting burned. Dragnauk on the other hand was inflicting heavy damage whenever he landed a hit. Endra refused to back down and she continued to trade attacks with him.

TJ watched in horror as he could tell that Endra was throwing her life away for a chance of Hiromi's escape. He tried to get Hiromi on her feet but she remained frozen dead weight. He picked her up and carried her piggy back style and started to make way to the trees. However in the back of his mind he couldn't stomach the thought of leaving Endra behind. He stopped briefly and sat Hiromi down against a tree. He told her to run and that he promised to bring Endra and the source orb back to her. As he walked back he thought to himself that it might be a big headed promise to make in this situation. He instructed Neimi to watch Hiromi as he headed back to the fight.

Dragnauk threw another heavy right and Endra in a final desperate play dodged his attack and her fangs glowed in a violent aura. She plunged her teeth into Dragnauk's forearm and gripped his arm tightly with all her demonic strength in both hands. Dragnauk yelled in pain as he felt his energy being drained. Dragnauk began to assault her with punches to the back and tried to shake her off. He then grabbed a firm hold of her right side horn and began yelling as he pulled on it. Endra was now showing signs of loosening her grip. Dragnauk smiled and snapped her horn right off her skull. Endra released her grip completely as she screamed out in a pain like no other. Draganuk felt her power drop dramatically as she stumbled backwards screaming with both hands over her fresh wound. Dragnauk delivered a strong punch to her gut and sent her flying across the ground. She was no longer moving and Dragnauk finally felt he could go after the young girl he wanted to torture. When he turned and began to leave he sensed Endra's mana grow again. He turned and saw her slowly getting up. Endra glared at him with glowing eyes. Tears rolling down her face from the pain of her broken horn. She let out a primal scream and from seemingly nowhere hundreds of dagger sized blades formed all around the air zone of the battlefield. Dragnauk now had a look of surprise and interest. She held out her hand and closed her fist and the hundreds of baldes stormed down to a point ready to skewer Dragnauk. [Thousand's Embrace]

The dragon yelled out and a huge curtain of fire surrounded him as the blades collided with him. Endra's dark mana crashed into Dragnauk's fire aura and the attack triggered a huge explosion with each of the blades. When the smoke cleared Dragnauk was standing unharmed still surrounded by his curtain of fire. He smiled and punched forward. [Flameveil Counter]

The flames around him swirled around his fist and launched at Endra taking the shape of a dragon. She put her arms up and tried to defend herself. She was blasted and engulfed by the fires as she skid across the ground. Parts of her were still burning as she now laid motionless. Dragnauk walked up to her and then began to stomp on Endra. He continued stomping he wanted to reduce her to a pile of broken flesh and bones. She was soon in a crater as he continued his stomping.

He then felt a strong axe kick land right on the top of his head. He grinned and he swatted in the direction of the attack. The attacker quickly jumped back and landed some distance from him. It was Hiromi, she was in her stance, but the look on her face still showed nothing but fear in the face of the dragonic tyrant.

Dragnauk: So.. Last Hero you finally decided to attack me...

Hiromi: Leave her alone..

Dragnauk: You.. would waste your chance to run... from a fight you can't win. You would spit in the face of your guardians as they give you their life! Clearly a dumb wench like you lacks what it takes to be the hero from the fairy tales! You taking any battle to Leviathan is but a cruel joke!

Hiromi: Shut up! Just shut up! What do you know about anything! You're just a killer! A loser who couldn't get his Queen to love him! So you lashed out like a psycho spoiled brat! Oh my Queen doesn't love me! Screw off!

Dragnauk: ....You would dare, talk to me about matters like this? I will torture you.. I will take deep pleasure in the sounds of your pain. I'll take you to the edge of death and leave you hanging.. then I'll deliver your broken soul to Lord Leviathan. I will crush you physically, then I'll break you mentally, then I'll decimate you spiritually! You worthless hero scum!

Hiromi: You're the only scum around here you orb stealing Uh-

Dragnauk: -He punches her right in the stomach-

Hiromi: (He's so strong.. I didn't even see...) -She falls to her knees- (Why am I so weak? All those years of training... and I can't beat any of these people..)

Dragnauk: -He places his foot over her face and pushes her to the ground as he scoffs- Truly worthless... I'll have to hit you softer if I want you to suffer long enough for me to be satisfied..

Hiromi: (I'm so scared.. Why did I even think I could stand up to him? All of you.. have no fear. Master Ace, Endra, T.J....)

Dragnauk then approached the downed Hiromi with bad intentions. He dropped to his knees and leaned over her, hovering ominously. He touched her neck and was seemingly feeling all over as if he were trying measure how much power he had to hold back in order to keep her alive. He tightened his hand and was going to start strangling her. His hand reached around her neck and he was going to squeeze down.

T.J. yelled out in a rage as he dropped Victoria across Dragnauk's shoulder. The blade clashed and a stinging pain like he had never felt surged through Dragnauk's body. Dragnauk yelled and T.J. swung again nailing Dragnauk in the side. The tyrant groaned in pain as he quickly hopped off Hiromi and created distance between him and the swordsman. He stared down at T.J. holding his wounds. His face grew angry, his blood began to boil. He wanted to see that kid in pieces on the ground.

Hiromi: (That's right.. I thought I could.. because you told me I could.. cause you believe in me for some reason... When you said that.. I felt like nobody could beat me.. it's kinda dangerous for you to say things like that to me.. It makes me wanna' impress you.. Heheh.. I must like you.. if I care so much about looking cool in front of you..)

Dragnauk: Where did you come from!?

T.J.: My mom?

Dragnauk: Insolent brat! (I didn't even sense his presence once! I didn't even know he was here! Is his stealth mastery that amazing!?)

T.J.: -He takes his stance- (Why the hell!? I was aiming to kill! The sword didn't cut. Am I losing control of this thing again? In any case it looks like I actually damaged him!) How dare you say all those things to my Hero! The only worthless one here is you! You steal her families powers then act like your so damn tough!

Dragnauk: (His voice is a bit shaky.. How strong is this kid? Why is it that he has Victoria now? What happened to Shiiva!?) This orb is my birth right!

T.J.: Birth right!? (I've never been so damn mad before! I'm so mad I'm not even scared! Might as well cap on it!) I hope you're ready to die!! (Wow! Is it just me or am I sounding cool now?)

Dragnauk: Now I understand... look at you.. Your shaking in your stance. Your hands are all sweaty. I couldn't sense you because you're a coward that has no presence on the battlefield. You're mana and presence is virtually invisible until you make contact because you're so worthless! You should have used that skill to run!

T.J.: Piss off!! -Victoria transforms into Grandeur-

Dragnauk: The hell!? (Victoria Transformed!)

T.J. took his stance with the great sword and locked eyes with his deadly foe. Dragnauk met his stare with an intimidating glare. However with all the stakes high in this fight T.J. had no choice but to face this mighty enemy all in, and all alone.

[T.J. VS DRAGNAUK! REBEL FOR YOUR LIFE!]