Metsuhai saw enough sand to the rest of his existence. The unchanging red scenery, the hostile environment was really getting to him. It wasn't something he wanted to admit, but he really really wanted to leave this hell as soon as possible and never return.
Earlier he had Tsukiyama with him, which made all the difference. Now he was alone. He could rely only on himself. The vastness of this red sand desert was overwhelming and was wearing him out. He began missing the red rocks, though he already knew from experience, that soon after finding himself stepping on more of them, he'll miss the sand. The rocks were sharp and their proximity to the lava currents meant it was even hotter there than here. From time to time Metsuhai spotted caves of different sizes. Even the larger ones were hard to see from far, so Metsuhai had to be careful not to get to close to one of them. Although the shade the caves provided was tempting, going in would be dangerous. Not because of the monsters which might be hiding there, the outside was just as bad. But if he were to lose his way in there, there would be no way back. The compass showed the way to Chizue (what Metsuhai wanted most) but it didn't pay attention to walls or obstacles, only pointing in a straight line to the goal. Even rarer than the caves were the plants. Brown, spiky, bloated like an arm of a body builder taking steroids they looked nothing but normal. Metsuhai didn't know how they survived here with no water, but had no desire to get close enough to them to maybe find out.
Metsuhai did his best to avoid all enemies on the way, hiding behind rocks or dunes even if they were alone and relatively easy to deal with. He didn't want to draw any attention to himself, especially after that huge explosion. I really hope sensei Tsukiyama is alright…
Earlier Metsuhai was sure that Tsukiyama could at least escape, but that explosion, capable of demolishing a whole city, shook his confidence.
I am drinking too much water, Metsuhai scolded himself. Conserving water here was just so hard. Metsuhai looked at the compass. It pointed him to a passage between two large dunes. If I go in there I might not be able to avoid a fight. It's a perfect spot for an ambush. But crossing one of those huge dunes will cost him so much precious time. Besides, I'll be quite visible all the way up there. There was another advantage of going between the dunes- only few fiends could pass there at once. A single warrior can stop a whole army in such a narrow passage.
Metsuhai walked between the dunes, his feet sinking into the sand, even if just a little bit. As the passage widened slightly, Metsuhai could sense two somewhat strong energies. Metsuhai controlled his breath, moving quietly, trying to remain undetected. It wasn't long before he spotted the two.
"My kill, my meat," Insisted a green skinned big lizard monster, his entire body covered by sharp tough- looking spikes. His voice was a lot calmer than his words and intonation suggested. He stood on two legs with the intention of intimidating his opponent, though he was clearly more comfortable on four. His statement clearly referred to the corpse of a firestarter, between him and the second dangerous being. Metsuhai could see two spikes sticking from the firestarter's body. So he can shoot them…
The second creature was a humanoid, looking kind of like a zombie but clearly an unusual one. His skin was dark grey and his eyes were yellow and lacked any kind of empathy. His arms were exceptionally long and muscular and ended with curved sharp claws. He didn't wear anything, but the lizard stood between him and Metsuhai so Metsuhai couldn't really see the zombie's front below the belt. His eyes were narrowed with a sinister gaze on the lizard creature. "My territory, my meat."
The Lizard gritted his teeth. They'll fight any moment. Suddenly the zombie exclaimed "There's a human here!" pointing right to Metsuhai's direction. How!... Metsuhai took his fighting stance. The lizard turned to Metsuhai, descending to walk on four. He didn't see Metsuhai just yet, but it was a matter of seconds. The zombie took a step forward and… grabbed the corpse. The lizard didn't even spotted Metsuhai when he realized the scam. The zombie was running surprisingly fast, disappearing between sand piles and rocks. The lizard roared, giving chase.
Metsuhai breathed with relief.
Soon enough he was back to struggling with the heat and the sands. He left the two large dunes far behind him, so far they looked like just another patch of sand. The sands kept moving, shifting position with the hot desert wind. They moved endlessly and seamlessly. The barren landscape, homogeneous under the red sky, never changed. If it wasn't for the compass, Metsuhai would have surely thought he made no progress whatsoever.
From time to time the pointer showing Metsuhai the way shook slightly. Every time that happened Metsuhai forced himself to think of Chizue. Of her smile, her soft voice, her kind eyes filled with hope. He couldn't let those monsters destroy her.
A black cloud appeared on the horizon. It's not smoke… the color is darker. As much as Metsuhai wanted a change in scenery this didn't look good. The cloud covered more of the sky with every passing moment. I was sure there are no clouds in inferno… No, this is not a cloud it's…a huge flock of crows! It was indeed a flock of three- eyed crows, there were millions of them, like flying spears cutting through the sky. Metsuhai already saw them fight in large numbers during the Armageddon Championship, but it was a tiny drop compared to what he witnessed now. Individually they aren't that strong, but there's just too many of them. Like piranhas they will tear me to pieces.
Metsuhai ran as fast as he could to the opposite direction. But the craws were crossing the distance fast. More and more of the sky was black. Any moment they will spot him. Metsuhai desperately searched for a place to hide from the millions of eyes, knowing that once noticed there will be no way out.
There were several caves scattered across the rocky plain ahead. Metsuhai ran into the first cave he had seen. A big cave indeed. It didn't take long for the bird army to get there. The swarm was passing on the outside like a black horizontal rain. Metsuhai could hear their wings flapping and their shrieks. Metsuhai made himself regain his breath, so they won't hear him. But the risk was minimal due to all the noise. Still, Metsuhai moved away from the cave entrance, can't take his eyes off the endless swarm.
To Metsuhai's misfortune one crow flew into the cave. He landed on a stone, then flew to another. I need to hide deeper.
Metsuhai silently descended deeper into the cave, where light couldn't penetrate. The crow looked around a bit, then flew back out. Soon enough the swarm was gone (though Metsuhai wasn't there to see it). What Metsuhai missed was an old faded signpost with a skull and two bones, broken in half. It was a warning. Within the cave dwelled something ominous. Something so evil that even the residents of Inferno preferred to stay away from.
…
It was so dark nothing could be seen. Metsuhai lit a small flame above his index finger. The cave was really wide here, and the floor was nearly flat. Metsuhai examined his surroundings, not sure what to expect. As Metsuhai continued studying the cave, a large eye opened not too far from him. Metsuhai examined the creature up close. A black land squid- like being with one sweet looking eye the size of a football, and eight middle length tentacles, each twenty centimeters or so. The creature was slowly crawling to Metsuhai's direction, releasing weird sounds of joy. There was something innocent and childish about it. It's a…Lurker if I'm not mistaken. I think I heard something about them in class. Or was it in a lecture? And indeed one of those old lecturers mentioned Lurkers in history lessons but one time. It was during the very first week of Metsuhai's training in the order, and Metsuhai who was still getting used to the harsh and constant training regimen was half asleep the entire time.
The Lurker climbed on Metsuhai's left arm still making sounds of satisfaction a bit like a cat, his eye smiling. Metsuhai couldn't remember what the lector said. Then came the tiny sting. As if a short blood test. No that's not right!
Metsuhai grabbed on to the protesting Lurker with his available arm. It took Metsuhai all his strength to detach himself from the tentacles, fighting him hard. Blood sprang out of Metsuhai's vain like a gazer. Metsuhai threw the Lurker away. So much blood! The wound on his arm was unbelievably deep. It took Metsuhai a moment to realize what happened. Not only he injected me anticoagulants to drink my blood, he injected me powerful painkillers so I will not figure out. Metsuhai stared at the harmless looking Lurker in disbelief. You're going down! But Metsuhai's first priority was to take care of the blood springing out of him. He rushed to bandage his vain. More eyes began to open. First there were tens of them. Then hundreds, so many Metsuhai couldn't count. And they were on the assault. Metsuhai cut right and left, trying to keep the distance. I have to retreat and fast. Then all the lurkers looked at Metsuhai simultaneously. Metsuhai's head was exploding. A mental attack. It was far worse than Rin in the competition. I can't withstand it much longer, they are too strong. Metsuhai ran, and the Lurkers followed. They were fast considering their build. Metsuhai hit any Lurker trying to jump on him, not paying attention whether he just pushed them away or cut them down. His head was hurting bad and, his vision was minimal- the small flame barely showed him his surroundings. The Lurker's bodies were tough and hard to cut, but their eyes were still vulnerable.
Metsuhai climbed on a large black hill. Holding the sword in front of him. Somehow the Lurkers didn't follow. They seemed to be hesitant. Unfitting for this level of appetite. "Not so brave now, are you!" They are afraid of this hill, a black ropy round hill. Horror was seen on Metsuhai's face as a huge massive eye opened right behind his back. It was a huge Lurker, the size of a three buses put one on top of the other.
Metsuhai slowly turned around. The over-huge Lurker greeted him with a typical sound of Lurker satisfaction, only a thousand times stronger. Damn!
Metsuhai jumped away, clearing his path through the Lurker army. The hypnotic assault of the small Lurkers was relentless. Metsuhai's eyes tiered up. The King Lurker sent his huge tentacle after Metsuhai. And that was lightning fast. Metsuhai knew he cannot block this. Luckily his fighting instincts kicked in. Metsuhai acted immediately, without thinking about it. He threw one of the small Lurkers on that arm. The big Lurker was misled. He thought he got him right then and there. The small Lurker couldn't move one bit. And that wasn't the worst of it. It seemed king lurker could eat through his arm. At first huge cuts tore through the small Lurker. Blood rushed out. Another moment and the small Lurker was destroyed, gone. As if he was never there. It was so fast. How did he do it? Whatever the case was, the small Lurker was absorbed in less than a second.
Metsuhai was on the run, and the tentacles followed. Metsuhai was going ballistic with his sword, but all he could do was keep the tentacles from absorbing him as well. The King Lurker was too tough to be cut. Metsuhai was starting to create distance. Metsuhai was about to breathe with relief when the Lurker used his eye. It was worse a thousand times then Rin's ring. It was even far worse than the attack of all the other Lurkers together. All Metsuhai could think was how much pain he felt and how tired he was. Now Metsuhai was certain he needs to rest. Just a short nap will do no harm. Metsuhai's eyes closed on their own. The small Lurkers moved aside to make way for their master. The King Lurker was taking his time.
I will call Chizue in the morning… wait… Chizue! Metsuhai forced himself back up. My friends are counting on me, Chizue needs me. It's not time to die. Not here, not today!!! Metsuhai used the double power up, his energy burning bright around him, lighting up the cave. A huge energy beam hit King Lurker right in the middle of his eye. He was hardly damaged, but it bought Metsuhai precious time. Metsuhai ran as fast as his legs could carry him, stumbling on stones and spiky inferno plants. He had no idea where he was or where he was going. His head hurting as if eaten from the inside and his sight clouded. Then far away he had seen light. Metsuhai couldn't believe his luck. It was an exit, maybe not the same he entered through, but it was a way out. Metsuhai left the cave praying and thanking every god he ever heard of. It was a miracle. If Metsuhai didn't ran to the right direction by coincidence he would have found his end.
…
He was back to the sands. Metsuhai had no idea how long he marched across the infinite ruthless desert, where there's never night. It was hours since he last stopped for a momentary rest. Metsuhai was exhausted. His head was still thumping with pain. His eyes were closing on their own, his body craving sleep, but if he were to fall asleep here he could be buried by the sand, possibly never coming back out. Not to mention he'll be completely exposed to any predator passing through. He needed shelter, but there was none. There was only sand, more sand, an ocean of sand with no end.
From time to time the compass changed direction. Metsuhai's resolve was shaken. He knew why he came. He knew it would be hard. But he got more than he bargained for. The desire to use the gemstones to go home and escape this torment was not something he could ignore any longer. It was a battle to set the compass back on track every time. Metsuhai cursed his own weakness and angered on himself, but that changed very little. He just had to keep going.
Out of nowhere something powerful snapped around Metsuhai's leg. It was strong and sharp. But Metsuhai didn't have time to think about it. Next moment Metsuhai was dragged into the hot sand. Before Metsuhai knew it, there was sand in pants, sand in his ears. There was sand in his nose and mouth and even his eyes. Metsuhai couldn't move, couldn't scream, couldn't breathe. No matter how hard Metsuhai pushed against the sand he couldn't move an inch. The pressure from all directions was just too strong. Just as well he could've tried moving the entire desert. Metsuhai didn't even know anymore where was up, where was down. With every moment the pain in Metsuhai's lungs was getting stronger.
Metsuhai pulled himself together fast. Metsuhai powered up with everything he has. Even the double power up didn't allow him to move through the sand, but that wasn't the intention. With a powerful energy blast to all directions Metsuhai freed himself, creating a crater in the sand. Metsuhai was lying in the slowly closing crater, spiting sand out of his mouth. He breathed a few breaths of freedom. Metsuhai made his way out, his eyes burning. He'll come from below. Metsuhai focused, putting effort into sensing his foe. For a moment there was nothing. Then something was approaching fast from below, moving through the sand like a shark in the water. Metsuhai made a big leap sideways just in time, summersaulting in the air like a professional acrobat. Metsuhai barely left the ground as the huge red pincer snapped beneath him. The giant scorpion beneath the sand struck for the second time, but once more Metsuhai avoided his grip. The scorpion was fast and precise, moving into his attack position deep under the sand while Metsuhai was still in the air. But Metsuhai kept track of his position, thus managing to stay out of harm twice now. The scorpion repeated his attack but Metsuhai was too fast for him. Next time he surfaces, I will hit him with all the energy I can muster.
But the scorpion changed tactic. He tried to grab Metsuhai from below no more, coming out entirely from under the sand. He surfaced quite close to Metsuhai, but just far enough to stay out that swords reach. Now Metsuhai could clearly see him. A car- sized ancient scorpion with one giant eye. His body all covered with hard scales, including his two pincer arms.
Before Metsuhai could decide on his next move the scorpion monster focused on Metsuhai with his large eye and hit him with a powerful mental assault. Not again! Metsuhai's head was exploding. He didn't recover yet from the immense damage king Lurker inflicted upon him. Everything was spinning around him. It was so hard to maintain focus. Though King Lurker's attack was worse, this surprise attack on his as it is weakened mind took a toll on him. But Metsuhai pushed through. Despite the pain and confusion, Metsuhai jumped on the great scorpion. The great scorpion was old and wise, but he underestimated Metsuhai's speed. With one slash Metsuhai took out that dangerous eye. The scorpion gave away a shriek of pain. He could attack Metsuhai mentally no more. Now they were both in each other's range. The scorpion began working with his tail, raining down blows on Metsuhai. Metsuhai was blocking with his shield, the Arisu artifact not letting him down. One hit will bring me death! He wasn't mistaken. The ancient scorpion's venom was extremely toxic, and with his size could have enormous reserves of it. That tail could deliver in an instant an incredible dose under great pressure. This weapon of death was what Metsuhai had to keep away from himself at all cost. And it wasn't easy. The scorpion's tail was actually faster than Metsuhai's own movement despite being powered up, but without his eye the scorpion couldn't aim. He was practically guessing where to strike. Just when Metsuhai was about to breathe with relief, the great scorpion managed to grab on to his shield. The shield could defend Metsuhai no more, and the scorpion didn't let go. Metsuhai refused to abandon the Arisu shield. He needed it to survive. Furthermore it was a symbol for what he was fighting for. The only thing Metsuhai could do now was defending with his sword. The sword and tail were colliding, Metsuhai fencing fiercely against that tail. At first it looked like a stalemate. But after numerous blows, the sharp heavy sword found out to be stronger. More and more wounds were opening on the armored tail. The damaged tail and eye were slowly bleeding orange blood. Finally the scorpion let go, digging himself beneath the sand. He didn't come back out.
Metsuhai was waiting for hours walking slowly and on guard, but the scorpion was gone. He had enough.
Metsuhai had to be on guard all the time. He couldn't sleep properly for days. Metsuhai didn't know how long he had been traveling and fighting in this forsaken wasteland. He completely lost track of time. Since there was never night in Inferno he couldn't even get an estimation. Sand, rocks, lava, red sky. Sand, rocks, lava, red sky. It was all the same, all the time. With volcanoes in the background and unpleasant orange suns frying him slowly. Metsuhai wiped the sweat off his forehead for the who knows how many times.
The worst part was that he didn't even know if Chizue was still alive, or was he too late. It was just him alone in a hostile world with only fiends and monsters to keep him company. Metsuhai didn't bother counting how many demons he had cut down here.
Am I really getting any closer to her? What if they are moving her? I wonder if my friends were right about coming here. Maybe the order really couldn't do anything to help me with this suicide mission… No! Goh could've done something. If I had a team with me we could guard each other as we sleep. We could carry more supplies. We could have scout. We would cover each over's back. How could you abandon your own daughter! I hate you.
Metsuhai had to keep draining his resolve to keep the compass going. Metsuhai's mood was horrible, and it was getting worse. Metsuhai cursed the day he decided to go on this mission. He really was in hell. I didn't deserve this. What sins did I commit to suffer so much? I am no saint, but it's not like I did terrible things. I didn't kill any person. Only monsters…
Tired and frustrated Metsuhai reached inside his backpack to give himself his daily symbolic portion of food. Of course, now that he couldn't tell how many days passed it was just an estimation. The fact he couldn't pull out the bread immediately told him he was probably eating more than he was supposed to. But he already made up his mind about this meal.
To his surprise his hand closed on something solid and round. Metsuhai pulled the small object out. It was the golden Globus Akiara gifted him. Metsuhai looked at that small thing with wonder. He completely forgot about it. He must have missed it when hurriedly making preparations for the journey. Otherwise he would leave it at Tsukiyama's. Metsuhai remembered Akiara's exact expression when she gave it to him. It wormed his heart. And he remembered something of great importance. There are beautiful things in the world, worth fighting for, killing for, suffering for, and even dying for- but I'm still alive. Metsuhai once more was filled with power. He ate his 'daily' portion of bread and looked to the horizon with unwavering determination.
…
Tsukiyama was back on Earth, breathing in the fresh night air. He was satisfied, achieving feats no other human in history could be proud of. And he even diverted divisions of demons away from Metsuhai. But his beloved student was still fighting for his life and Tsukiyama knew it.
Tsukiyama rushed home, going right to Bonehead. At the entrance Roteah greeted him with a bow. Tsukiyama simply nodded and went inside. He was at Bonehead's secluded underground room in no time.
Bonehead's room entrance was covered by a poster with white skull and bones on black background. A typical pirate symbol. I've never been in Bonehead's room since he moved in. I wonder what evil lives inside.
Tsukiyama knocked on the door several times. "I'm coming in."
From the inside the room was packed with shelves, filled with thick books, decorated crosses lying here and there. In the center of the wall furthest from the door, on an empty shelf, lit strongly by three lamps, stood the framed picture of a young happy priest, hugging his wife and holding his little infant girl. The same picture he used to carry in his little bag. Bonehead himself was sitting on the twin bed, looking into his laptop with much interest. As Tsukiyama knocked, bonehead rushed to close shut his laptop, and dragged up his torn red ribbon. Tsukiyama opened the door, and stepped into the room. Bonehead got up and saluted. "Tsukiyama sama, reporting."
Tsukiyama looked around. "You've done well with this place, I'm impressed."
"Old habits I guess, hard to change, though the twin bed is for the women."
"My friend, I have a great favor to ask you…"
"You gave me a home, "said Bonehead, "you saw me for who I really am, I have friends that respect me now, and it all started with you. I am reeady."
"My student Metsuhai had invaded Inferno and is fighting for his life…"
Bonehead lit his cigar, listening in silence. "…his mission is of great importance, but he is way over his head. I tried to help him, yet I failed. I simply drow too much attention. Now I want you to save him from imminent death. The risks are great. You might never come back here and be stuck behind the barrier. You might even fall under the control of a strong enough necromancer. But I just don't have anyone else to ask. You're his only hope. So if you love or respect Metsuhai, if you respect me, you must come to his aid."
Bonehead threw his cigar into the trash can. "I see."
Bonehead sank into thinking for some time.
"I understand the situation. It is unusual indeed. But I will neither do it for Metsuhai- san, or for you…"
Tsukiyama lowered his gaze with despair. "…I will do it for me. This will be my vengeance, though it doesn't cover it. I'm moving out right now. Say hello to Roteah for me". Bonehead wore his belt with the sword, picked up his backpack, and put the picture inside of it. Tsukiyama briefly explained the details of Metsuhai's whereabouts and cause, and Bonehead left.
…
Metsuhai moved fast across the sharp rocky ground. He wasn't going by the compass, but not because he lost his fighting spirit. On the contrary. Even his headache from before was almost gone. But the abysses all around him and the lava rivers which seemed to be getting bigger and bigger and flowing faster and faster forced him to adjust his course repeatedly.
It took a while for Metsuhai to arrive to a surprisingly flat stone plain. Metsuhai scanned his surroundings and… she was there. Chizue lay on the ground seemingly naked, covered only by a thin white blanket. Sleeping, looking as sweet as ever. Her wrists and legs were chained with thick steel chains. "Chizue!" Metsuhai rushed to her, his heart beating strongly. He didn't care why the guarding demon lord wasn't there. I will not need that any more, Metsuhai looked at the compass for the last time. To his horror, the compass wasn't pointing to her. Metsuhai stopped but it was too late. Something snapped around his leg, piercing into it. It was thousand times stronger than the huge scorpion. Pain surged through Metsuhai's body, brutal, paralyzing pain, as if his leg was torn to pieces. Chizue was gone. Her image had been fake.
The enemy moved in on Metsuhai from above, fast as lightning. Metsuhai barely understood what's happening when a sharp fist went deep into his stomach. Metsuhai felt the air forced out of his lungs and the pain, now both in his leg and his belly.
Metsuhai counter- attacked immediately, his sword arching in a wide swing, a reaction of a hardened warrior, but the beastman leaped just a bit out of his range. That bastard didn't look much different than any other beastman, except his slightly glowing red eyes and standing out square stomach muscles.
He… is… really good. Metsuhai thought through the pain, now much worse due to his own movement, forcing himself to power up to the limit. Metsuhai barely managed to glance at his foot, now stuck in a huge bear-trap and covered in blood, when the beastman charged again. Though there was a spiky mace attached to his back, he didn't rush using it, clearly confident in his superiority, and it seems for a good reason. His movements reminded Metsuhai of Marshall.
Metsuhai clumsily swung his sword and held out his shield, trying to create distance as the beastman pounded him. Though not as powerful as his first fist, every hit was more than felt. Metsuhai's already torn and ruined armor barely gave any protection against this superhuman power. And Metsuhai could barely move, forced to keep standing in the same place. Powering up did dull the pain, but being in this condition was like fighting with half his strength. No, worse. The beastman was showering blows on him, hitting to the head, to the chest, to the stomach, to the groin, and on any other part of Metsuhai's body. Though Metsuhai did defend as well as he could. It was devastating. Metsuhai didn't know how much longer he could take it. Every strike was deadly. Even for Metsuhai one good blow to the chin could end it.
Metsuhai's mind went into overdrive as he unsuccessfully tried to stand his ground. This was a trap. Chizue's image was an illusion. She was probably never here. Where did he come from? How did he know? No matter. First things first.
In a desperate move Metsuhai shouted in rage, creating a powerful energy blast, so big it could be seen from miles away. The beastman did block, but the strong energy current sent him flying far away. Metsuhai didn't really know if he beat him. There were more pressing concerns.
Metsuhai rushed to treat his leg. It took lots of strength to open the bear-trap. The contraption made a metallic creak as Metsuhai forced it open. Metsuhai examined his bleeding leg. The flesh was torn, and the bone was crushed. I need to fix the bone in place first if I stand a chance of ever using it again.
Metsuhai was quite used to pain by now, but even he couldn't stop himself from shouting when he put the bone back in place. Without delay Metsuhai drew out of his backpack the three health potions he brought with him. They were quite high leveled, yet it took all of them to even minimize the damage. For this kind of injury, potions just didn't cover it. He needed professional medical attention. Well, maybe the highest grade of health potions would do it, the kind barely in existence. Technically drinking several health potions at once was unadvisable, bad for the liver. Quite toxic really. But Metsuhai was cornered. Finally, he bandaged his leg to stop the bleeding.
The beastman casually and lightly landed a few meters away from Metsuhai. It was clear he cared not just about winning, but how graceful he looked. He cared about style. However his killing intention was unmistakable. This time he held out his mace.
"Well done, breaking free like that. This thing can hold down even a full grown Cyclops. It won't save you though. For I Az'og, personally came here to hunt you down, Mordon Destroyer."
"You know who I am? No matter, tell me, where did you see Chizue, the girl you made me see?"
"In your mind, of course. But let's concentrate on the reason I traveled all the way here… in the dark academy I was the best- undefeated. Strongest, fastest, the most skilled. Illusion master, mind reader, trap layer. I should have received a golden medal. Yet, I didn't, since I was eclipsed by another student who was pretty much better than me in everything. For every ability I have, he had a better one. Finally I challenged him to battle… I was crushed. He tore me to pieces with no mercy. It was devastating. He received the golden medal instead of me. Since that moment I trained hard, waiting for a rematch. And now I can't. He is dead… by you." Az'og had a bitter smile. "The only thing closest to that will be defeating you in combat, yet from what I learned, you're not a challenge all, falling to my trap like a beginner. You will be defeated in no time. It won't give me the satisfaction I desire, but still, by killing you I'll prove to everyone that the golden medal belongs to me."
With that Az'og charged, ending the conversation, in which Metsuhai didn't get to learn what he really wanted. Az'og was ultra-aggressive, attacking fast and seemingly with no consideration of his own defense. However he was not reckless, it was all calculated. Every time Metsuhai counter attacked Az'og was simply not there, He avoided Metsuhai's sword with round graceful moves. Just a bit out of reach. And Metsuhai's leg made matters worse. Even after the treatment it sent pain through his body with every move, making him somewhat slow and sluggish. A handicap he really could not afford. Metsuhai knew he couldn't put any more pressure on that leg. Furthermore, he had to keep it out of the enemy's reach. Even a light blow there would end the fight. This naturally limited his options.
Yet, Metsuhai bravely stood his ground, the mace's power broken on his shield. He had his True Sight on, not really helping him to read this tricky fiend's moves, but at least he was safe from illusions. It kind of worked at first. But with every exchange put Metsuhai to the test. One after another, a hit went through. Not fatal. Not direct. But those spikes still put their mark on him. This couldn't go on. I can't beat him by fighting defensively. I won't outlast him. Metsuhai began taking risks, first trying to confuse Az'og with a fast yet not very powerful energy beam. Az'og kicked it away as is there was nothing to it. Then Metsuhai faked an opening in his defense, trying to lure the beastman right to an air-cut to the chest. Not only did Az'og ignored this bait, he actually surprised Metsuhai, striking with his elbow in an unexpected angle. Metsuhai was almost knocked down, which would have been fatal. Now I understand, he really is reading my mind. How didn't I paid attention to this before? Well, I didn't expect him to be able to utilize it in battle like this. This changes everything. He ain't that much faster or more refined than me. Yet this is one ability very hard to deal with. I'll have to overwhelm him. Hang in there, my leg!
Metsuhai challenged his enemy aggressively, putting as much pressure as possible. He ignored his hurting leg, violently fencing with the sword. Still, Az'og was outperforming him. His face expressionless, focused. He didn't mind being somewhat on the defense, knowing Metsuhai couldn't keep this up. Truthfully, Metsuhai fought much better than anyone else in his condition should have. His experience of fighting under horrible pain and in extreme conditions was working to his benefit.
With the pain, sweat and exhaustion, Metsuhai was running out of options fast. He should have been feeling despair, yet all he felt was anger. Just when I seemed to be getting somewhere this guy shows up. Disrupting my mission. Damn! Either way, even if he kills me he'll never be as good as Airborg.
Az'og was shocked and couldn't hide that at all. He lost all his composure. He was reading Metsuhai's thoughts no more. Az'og was furious, steam coming out of his nostrils. Az'og charged, and Metsuhai easily dodged. Metsuhai knew this was his last chance. He had to end it right here and right now. Metsuhai blasted Az'og with a huge energy beam, Az'og's hoofs struggling to get a grip on the rocks. Az'og was pushed to the high bank of an enormous lava river. Metsuhai sent another, smaller energy beam. Az'og who somewhat regained his senses put his hands on the way. But the beam changed course in the last moment, hitting the ground beneath his feet. Az'og didn't take damage from the explosion or the stone fragments sent by it. Yet, finally realizing what's happening his expression showed fear for the first time. But it was too late. Metsuhai slammed both his palms into the ground, using his Earth- based sorcery to detach a piece from the stone island. Az'og was inevitably falling into the lava river with his right claw covered hand extended forward. "No, nooo!"
The lava was carrying Az'og fast and far away. There was no way to swim through.
…
Metsuhai's journey through the sands continued. Tired but determined Metsuhai kept pushing forward. His leg still hurting from the fight with Az'og. Metsuhai tried not to think about the angry beastman who probably survived the swim in the lava and still wanted to kill him for his own unreasonable vengeance. It wasn't so hard: after all the chance of him finding Metsuhai again was slim at best.
As he walked, crossing the summit of a large dune he found himself face to face with a cave. The cave drew Metsuhai's attention. The medium sized cave was not extraordinary in any way, its entrance maybe as wide as a bus. Metsuhai would have generally stayed away from any cave on his way despite the tempting shade, not wanting to risk getting lost and that's even without considering his previous inferno cave exploration experience. But what drew Metsuhai's attention were the ratman guarding the cave entrance. Did they notice me? Metsuhai wasn't really sure. If they did, it's probably wise to get rid of them so they won't call for reinforcement or report his presence to someone dangerous. If they didn't, it was better to keep it that way. Metsuhai decided the less risky approach in this case was to figure things up close. I guess I'll kill them.
There were two ratmen with guns, and another, old, especially thin one (though they all were thin) holding no weapon. He had an eye patch on his left eye. When the two armed ratmen noticed Metsuhai they immediately aimed their guns on him. The old ratman signaled them to stop. The soldiers lowered their weapons with no second thoughts. The old ratman approached Metsuhai, still keeping safe distance. He bowed to Metsuhai, "I apologize for the boys. It's just that we are living in harsh times and my men didn't ever meet a human before."
The ratman elder waited for a reaction while observing Metsuhai. Metsuhai had no idea what was he supposed to say.
"I don't know why you are here, but there's no need to resort to violence," the elder reassured, "These are rough times for us all."
Metsuhai was not convinced. His training under Lezner and experiences on the battlefield urged him to strike the ratmen down. But, they weren't a threat. If this place is as isolated as I think it is, maybe I could just ignore them.
"But… where's my hospitality. Come, you probably want to rest from those unforgiving suns."
This was the moment of truth. Either the ratman really was hospitable (whether because he was nice or because he understood the power difference,) or this was a trap. Metsuhai wasn't just gonna go in blind. Sorcerer's Eye! Though he had to put some effort to see through the veil of the so abundant demonic energy of the realm, in a moment the interior of the cave was revealed to him. Metsuhai focused on the presences and energies. His senses of course were already attuned to them, but now even someone capable of masking their true power or an illusionist should be unable to hide. The cave had many energies, but they weren't strong. Metsuhai could easily recognize them as ratmen. Even if they all gang up on me, as long as I am not careless I'll be just fine. The passages were also somewhat narrow for them to efficiently cooperate against him. There could still be theoretically a trap somewhere inside, but it seemed increasingly unlikely.
All Metsuhai's battle intentions faded away. The ratman was truly inviting him to his home. And there wasn't anyone around for miles to tell about it. I do need a good rest. It's hard to sleep knowing you may be attacked at any time. Though I guess even here I can't really get more than a light nap.
The elder turned his back to Metsuhai (now Metsuhai surely couldn't attack him) and went into the cave. Metsuhai followed. After Metsuhai went passed the guards, the two of them exchanged looks that were hard to read. The elder was leading Metsuhai through the cave. Metsuhai saw ratwomen wearing rag- made dresses, sewing low quality grey- looking fabrics with sad looks. A ratman infant was crying in his mother's arms. A few more ratmen with guns and pirate swords were sitting, standing or walking around. Some of them spoke with hushed voices, though they all stopped talking when Metsuhai got close.
The ratman elder spoke while leading Metsuhai. "The dark army recruited all our best men. Eight of our children are now soldiers and probably will never come back here. As things stand our small clan is on the verge of collapse. We need their support, yet they are gone."
Metsuhai saw ratman children. Though clearly not human, there was some innocence in them. One of them was standing near a soldier and pointing his finger as if it was a gun. This is the kind of games children play in Inferno.
Further into the cave, another ratman child was holding a squirming centipede- like- thing with a hungry gaze. Metsuhai couldn't help but feel pity towards them.
"This was once a beautiful place with forests, grasslands, rivers and seas," explained the ratman elder with longing," Or so my grandparents told me. A world much like survivors returning from battle said your world is, it's in many ways similar to ours. We were the pirates, bandits, adventurers, servants, and messengers of this world. We weren't that bad. And we would eat cheese and drink expensive wines. Then came the demons. They destroyed everything. We never stood a chance. They turned our beautiful home into this." The ratman raised his voice for a second.
And now they are trying to do the same to my world. But I won't let them.
As Metsuhai walked he noticed an old ratwoman roasting a familiar impaled from top to bottom on a campfire made of spikes.
"On a good day we catch a snake and roast it, though there ain't enough snake for all of us."
Metsuhai kept walking by the elder's side, looking at his surroundings with interest and compassion. There were many more ratmen there. A young ratman woman was delivering soup for the hungry children. "We make the soup out of toxic mushrooms, you see, my clansman are tough. Yet time showed- not tough enough. Without even this scarce rare food most, if not all the children would die…"
"…by the way, I haven't introduced myself, what a blunder… Zashitov- captain Zashitov."
"Metsuhai fugughuu, where I come from I have a serious reputation."
"Then let's agree on peace between our clans. We have really nothing to fight about."
I don't think our paths will ever cross again.
"I guess."
Zashitov tapped on Metsuhai's sholder
"Just don't tell the dark army, or we're all gonna die…" Zashitov said with complete sincerity, "You can't stay long, if they discover what we did our fate will be grim. Neither we have no food for you. We don't even have enough for ourselves."
Metsuhai was somewhat surprised from the change in the ratman elder's change in speech. It seems now that Metsuhai and he got to an agreement he felt more comfortable and his speech became more ratman-like.
Finally the ratman elder showed Metsuhai the armory, where somewhat muscular ratmen were hitting with their hammers, working with fire and steel to forge the bullets, guns, and swords. "Well, there's nothing else to see here, unless you want to go deep into the mining trenches. Not much to see here."
"Thank you for the hospitality. I'll be on my way soon."
The elder ratman bowed again and left Metsuhai alone. Metsuhai sat on a round rock for a few long minutes closing his eyes with a passionate expression, enjoying the cool air of the inner cave. Then he forced himself up and went back to challenge the sands.
Metsuhai had no idea how long it's been since he left the ratmen colony. He had to face and dismiss the doubts crippling in. I'll never find her. I'll keep walking and walking and walking until I die here… Nonsense, if Chizue was gone the compass wouldn't guide my way either. She is still out there, waiting for me.
I haven't heard from anyone for so long. Do I have a world to come back to?... Of course I do. There are a lot of brave strong men still fighting the good fight on the other side. They all await my triumphant return.
Tsukiyama would have found me by now, if he were still alive... No no, if I was so easy to find, than that's true for Tsukiyama's opponent as well. That monster hadn't found me either and that's worth something.
It was time for the water break (or so Metsuhai decided). Metsuhai sent his hand to the backpack… Where…?
Metsuhai's hand couldn't find the shrunk backpack. Metsuhai examined his belt. The backpack wasn't there. Oh no, if I dropped it on the way I can't possibly find it in the sand! But then Metsuhai came to his senses. The backpack was attached to the belt. It was impossible to drop by accident. Examining his belt he found exactly where the backpack's strap was cut. The ratmen! They tricked me- they stole my supplies! Chizue will have to wait, ratmen, you're going down!
Metsuhai turned back and started walking only to realize he had no idea how to find his way back to the ratmen settlement. Metsuhai suddenly smiled, looking at the compass whose pointer stabilized on a new target.
…
Metsuhai approached a large rock. It didn't look in any way distinguishable from any other rock at first. Then Metsuhai recognized the rock as the peak of the ratmen cave entrance. It was a coincidence I found the ratmen settlement in first place. The chance of me accidently bumping on to them again was slim to none, even if I were to look. Yet they still covered the entrance with layers of sand. If not for the compass I would have never found them.
Metsuhai lifted his hand, energy gathered in the center of his palm. The sand was cleared with a big bang. Furious Metsuhai walked through the flying sand cloud. The two ratmen guards were terrified. They ran inwards and fast. Metsuhai pursued them with no rush. What followed caught even Metsuhai off guard. All the ratmen fighters were standing in one place. They were positioned in two rows. The first row was on one knee, while the back row was standing. They were all aiming their rifles on him. It was like a firing squad on an execution. Though this time it's the firing squad that was terrified. Their tails between their legs. Behind them stood the mothers, shielding the children with their own bodies. Their intention was clear. They were ready to die.
The ratman elder rushed to the front and bowed all the way as appropriate in an apology. "Good sir. Spare us. We don't stand a chance against you."
"I want my food back!"
Zashitov said with a grim voice "we gave the food to the children. The water we drank, and watered the mushrooms with. We have nothing to give you. Please, I beg of you, spare my clan, it was I who stole your supplies and need answer for it."
Metsuhai hesitated for a long moment, his rage swirling in him. But…
Killing these poor souls will not bring my supplies back. And all I can take from them are these poisonous mushrooms. Metsuhai slammed his fist into the cave wall, so hard that it fractured and just walked away.