"Thunderbolts and lightning! Very, very frightening!"
Probably one of the most dangerous islands to step ashore discounting any inhabitants, Raijin Island could also be the most amazing to witness. For as long as man can remember, this island has been under constant assault by a lightning storm. So much for lightning never striking twice in the same spot. Due to the difficulty of landing on this island, there is no record of what can be found there. Ships passing the place sometimes do report sighting of hulking figures walking the island, seemingly unaffected by the storm.
Special items acquired:
-Supercharged battery for cyborgs, allowing for batteries that will charge during sea travel or absorb electric attacks up until a certain point. Can be looted off of any cyborg.
Weekly beri reward for pirate crews:
-250 000 000 Beri
He roared, screaming his heart out over the gossip he just heard from the Underworld and 1 mile Underground. "What are you waiting for lazy bastards!?", he shouted at the face of one of his columnists who is sitting at his desk and in front of the typewriter. "Get the fuck out there, I will just do it myself!", he continued, backhand swinging his left arm across the face of the poor journalist before he sat down and started typing the scoop himself. "This is big news!", he kept on saying, his hands trembling with excitement and fear. And the first words that came in ink on the parchment. Tha brand!
─ Sephiroth "The Apocalypse" ─
How much is Sephiroth's head worth? It might have been not huge enough but rest assured that it is big enough for the world to see how blatantly declaring a contest against the World Government means so much.
Somewhere in the New World
One of the most dangerous crews of this generation is resting after a victorious battle with an old acquaintance. The destruction the battle has left on the unknown island was so devastating, it can no longer be recognised anymore. Ruins after ruins. Darkness after darkness. For Marshall D. Teach answered to the revenge they sought for. And yet, all they ever claimed was defeat.
Blackbeard was sitting on a boulder, holding a newspaper. He could only burst with laughter and excitement after scanning the front page of the article."ZEHAHAHAHA! Apocalypse huh? Isn't it too early for you to be named like one?"
"Look at his bounty. This much already!? He really did a gag with those Marines and Celestials. Well done boy! Well done!"
"This generation is full of terror. The Worst Generation it is. Zehahahaha!", he continued, raising his left palm only to invoke a stream of darkness as he stared into the paper further. "And look at these people who just happened to emerge somehow. And yet, branding their own aliases already. To think that they keep on telling that the age of piracy is over?! Ridiculous!!! This age of piracy would last for millennia. Piracy will never die!"
"Find this young and last of the Lunarians, Vasco, Jesus! I need formidable bastards in my crew. He would never decline this offer. If he refuses, death is the answer!"
Jesus responded quickly, "We received intel from Underworld that the Hunter's Guild was hired by Morrow. The Vampirates are looking for this man as well. Looks like Gambit is two steps ahead of us Teach!"
"I see. That Gambit and Larsi are no longer the same men we beat a year ago. It's frightening how their crew has become more dangerous now. And if they get these three Lunarians on their side─"
"Zehahahaha!"
Baltigo, Headquarters of the Revolutionary Army "It is coming. Get ready. The war that we have been waiting for is already upon us. These kids already started it. It's only a matter of time."
Enter Monkey D. Dragon. The World's Most Wanted Man. Leader of the Revolutionary Army.
"That kid shook the world just now. And Akainu just humiliated himself for what he's done.", Dragon remarked as he stood outside their headquarters, looking at the sea. "There are good people in their organization but the rotten ones disgraced those with a code of honour."
"Koala! Gather the men from across the globe. It's about time we finally move. And send a response to Larsi's proposal he sent before he was imprisoned."
The revolutionary officer, Koala gladly acted immediately upon hearing the command of their head. "Sir, yes, sir!"
Germa, Alabasta, Dressrosa, and Camelot Kingdoms on the seas
The four kingdoms that pledge fealty to Prince Landayan Morrow are focused on in a single panel. Their respective Graces are all sitting on the seat aboard their vessels. Mayhaps be heading somewhere. After all, they are not the only kingdoms that just set out on a journey. Twenty others already made their marks on the Grand Line. And as they flip the pages of the newspaper, they displayed a synchronised reaction to what they read.
Queen Aramis of Camelot: "?!!"
King Cobra of Arabasta: "?!!"
King Roku of Dressrosa: "?!!!"
Judge Vinsmoke of Germa: "I-impossible! T-this rookie. He really did it!"
"Father!", Niji Vinsmoke interjected. "Go to the next page. You would not believe it! King Gambit has─"
What it was all about was anyone's guess. But beyond that, an uproar across the seas is trembling wildly like whirlpools, bogging down ships metaphorically into the deepest of the blues.
Yukiryu Island
On a winter island in the New World, Shanks is sitting on a stone near the beach. Beck is with him, standing behind him. Yassop and the others are playing in the background, singing Bing Sake.
"Good job, young pirates! The courageous moments that you created by risking your life and freedom may change the course of the tides. It was against us till now but soon, waves will peril the shores of the gods. The future of the world, needless to say."
"Beck."
"Hmmm.", Beck responded.
"I think it's about time we join the fray. The hunt for One Piece. Tell the men."
"Is it fun doing that?"
"Hehehehehe!", he just simply laughed.
The people of the world continue to buzz with the news of the young Sephiroth and the feat of many others namely, Spada, Vice-Admiral Kallavan, and the Vampirate Prince. People who dared to challenge Big Mom, Kaido, and the King of Hell himself. The Emperors of the Sea whose supremacy had gone unchallenged for decades. The reign of the Olympians had gone unrivalled for centuries. But now, the end is imminent.
"Mr. 1. Did you see it?"
"Yeah...", he spoke emotionless.
"That Morrow. Hahahahaha. And now this upstart they call Apocalypse.", he remarked. The latter was already disclosed but what about the Vampirate?
"To think that he'd use all of Hades' prior connections to mock the World Government using their own system. This man has gone mad.", Crocodile continued.
"Shall we team up with them?", Mr. 1 asked.
"I think we already did back at the Pirate Festival. I was in prison with that man's father, The Dark Elf, one of the influencers of the Revolutionary Army."
The Surrounding Waters of Raijin Island
Big News Morgan's voice continues to speak in the background as newsletters keep on spreading forth around the world.
"According to reliable sources, Sephiroth is a Lunarian who infiltrated and broke out of the auction slave house. Eventually, he destroyed it and freed many slaves. With two other Lunarians in his aid, they abducted a Celestial Dragon and physically assaulted him. A battalion of Marines, headed by two Vice Admirals, Vice Admiral Strawberry and Vice Admiral Doberman came to arrest him only to be killed in the process. In a ruthless manner. A witness said that Sephiroth even stepped on Strawberry's long head before his brain splattered like spinach on the ground. A mindless beast he is. And the three Admirals finally confronted him: Aokiji, Akainu and Fujitora. Just as a negotiation was deemed to be final, Admiral Akainu betrayed the process and let the world see how filthy this organization is. Tainted forevermore. And they allowed the Lunarians to escape after trading blows with them. Another defeat.
The notoriety of this brotherhood would be a force of nature in the days to come. The Vampirate is seeking a loose alliance with him, even offering machinery for this trio of mercenaries. The extreme charisma and leadership of Prince Landayan Morrow are truly an asset finally combining all the forces of the kingdoms he visited: Arabasta, Germa, Camelot, and now Dressrosa. And having been recently claimed Serapis, all eyes are on him."
Aboard the vessel approaching Raijin Island, an ensign spoke to one of the officers aboard. "Sir, how can you be certain that the criminals are heading this way?"
"There is only a 33% chance.", the officer spoke, in a raspy voice.
"Normally at least, the three islands that the New World Log Poses would point upon crossing the Red Line are Raijin Island, Risky Red Island, and Mystoria. The first is the closest. Above that, this is an ideal escape route knowing the dangers it entails. They might have been thinking that we would not pursue them. They are not some experienced navigators."
"You're amazing, sir!"
"Ready the men. We are approaching the shores. Make contact with the priest."
Finally, the man behind that mysterious voice was revealed. A stunning figure and a distinct moustache, Vice Admiral Stainless.
Pangaea Castle
Holy Land Mary Geoise is the capital of the World Government, where its highest rulers live and govern. They are the World Nobles, Commander-in-Chief Kong, and the Five Elders. It is located on the Red Line and serves as the official route for people to cross between the two halves of the Grand Line. They meet and work inside the gigantic castle.
Inside the hall, Admiral Akainu stands before the Five Elders, explaining himself once more. His eyes glared, the tobacco inside his mouth flaring. "I only did what I think is the absolution of Absolute Justice!"
"At the expense of the face of the Marines and the Government?", the bald elder interrogated.
"You should have not acted foolishly in front of the world, Akainu!", the short blonde-haired elder with a moustache butted in.
"Grrrr...", Akainu gritted his cigar but mysteriously not cutting it out.
"This matter has already reached all corners of the world and we can no longer change it. What we can do is exterminate the Lunarian before he could do something more pressing. He is not yet affiliated with Morrow, and there's still a chance that we save our faces.", said the elder with a long moustache and scar on the forehead added.
Akainu responded quickly. Firm and final. "We already sent two Vice Admirals and Fujitora. They can handle this even with intervention from whoever it will be."
The white-hair elder voiced out his more pressing concern, "And what about this ruckus? Have you seen it? Morrow just openly declared war against us!"
"We have always fought for a universal dominion of rights by such a concert of free peoples as shall bring peace and safety to all nations and make the world itself at last free. But we seemed to have lost the will to really instil fear and balance in the world. We made the Emperors of the Sea and The Seven Warlords to balance out the tides but the world has already shaken. What Landayan did is an outright threat to turn the world upside down. We must act!"
"Putting bounties on our heads is just the start. What will happen next may be the start of an end and the end of a brand new start."
One could say a thunderstorm was brewing in the skies above Raijin Island, but such phrasing would be false. There was nothing brewing, for that would suggest it was forming now. Instead, this day was just like any other day on Raijin Island. The ever present, perpetual thunderstorms were crackling and roaring, filling the skies with the sound of thunder and the sight of lightning. A truly inhospitable island, one that very few men, even among the brave, dared visit. But for Sephiroth, Cyla and Gabriel, it was a perfect hiding spot. Not because it was one of the first islands in the New World. Not because most would not dare follow them there. But because they were Lunarians. A race known for their ability to survive in almost any environment, including this one.
Sephiroth and Cyla were inside a cave, sitting next to a fire that they had made. They were taking a rest, as well as talking, formulating their future.
They're sure to come after us after what we have done...
Cyla said, not worried, but rather concerned. Neither Sephiroth nor Cyla had seen Sephiroth's new bounty, for even the news coo dared not fly to Raijin Island. The lightning would strike them from the sky.
Good, let them.
Sephiroth said, the fire on his back burning strongly. Cyla and Gabriel did not have such a phenomenon occur on their bodies, though why that was, was anyone's guess. Perhaps they were not yet strong enough. As for Sephiroth, he now brimmed with confidence. He was growing stronger and stronger, and he could feel it intuitively.
I hope you're not overestimating yourself.
Cyla said, not nagging, but once again concerned. Their situation was dire after all.
Any word from Gabriel?
Sephiroth asked, changing the subject. Cyla took out a Den Den Mushi from her clothing, looking at it.
No, we seem to be in the clear for now.
Cyla said. Gabriel was on the lookout, making sure that no World Government ships were coming to Raijin Island. Sephiroth closed his eyes, leaning with his back against the wall of the cave. Even a moment of shuteye would help. Cyla could not do so, too tense from her concerns. There were strange emotions whirling inside her, though she could not quite put a finger on it.
The World Government agonised with internal turmoil. The Navy commenced the hunt. Following this, a series of events unfolded across the world. Shanks finally decided to move the piece on the board. Dragon and his revolutionary armies marked the first steps towards Rigaudon. The Underworld recently proclaimed their new Lord. And the rest of the world is in pandemonium for the reverse hunt as Underworld just published a significant amount of gold to the heads of relevant figures. All behind the recent incident involving the man who assaulted a Celestial Dragon in Sabaody Archipelago. His name is Sephiroth but the big names gave him an alias.
"The Apocalypse!", Big News Morgan proudly presents in front of his fellow underworld brokers.
"There's no other moniker that fits with the young man who just deterred potential assimilation of the admirals.", one of the brokers hidden in silhouette said.
"Indeed.", the other mysterious man concurred. "With him as a diversion tool, many big names freely did what they have been plotting this whole time."
"We got to give it to you Morgans. Detailing his exploits and adding and deducing some more is an absolute masterpiece."
"It came off with a desirable price, wasn't it?"
"Kuwahahaha! I may be a miser, but I am first and foremost a journalist!!! I am a DJ of words, one who occasionally spins lies to move people's hearts!! I decide what gets published!!!"
"And above all, the new Lord of the Underworld needs to be pleased. He after all has a strong liking towards this upstart pirate. Morrow has the resources and machinery. He is a catalyst against the Government of the World. And I only need to follow the trails of his ship's rudder as he cut the seas. The more they shake the world; the more opportunities I have to dry my inks into the parchment. Literature, and journalism; make history. Whatever lies it entails. Do you really think that what the world knows until now is nothing but the truth? The world government is flooded with lies beyond the imagination.", Morgans preached.
Raijin Island
The uproarious island illuminates endlessly due to the unique climate it was set upon. And for centuries, the people who have lived here have learnt to devise alleys to survive the ever-rumbling skies. A defined technology to harness the energy present across the land. As such, ships that cross this land would purchase a certain energy core called a battery to serve as backup storage of energy. To battle the lightning cast by the darkened clouds, they have been able to develop suits capable of withstanding the said peril. It is similar to the Germa Raid Suit. Above all, by trading knowledge with brilliant scientists across the globe, they were able to manufacture a line of robotics. The Raijin Cyborgs!
At the port, Vice-Admiral Stainless was met by the priest himself. His name is Kasa. A jack of all trades and the governor of the Raijin Port. He wanted to personally meet the Marine Officer. "It is a pleasure meeting you Vice-Admiral Stainless. You do need some umbrellas.", he said behind the hideous smile. Mellowed by his scratchy, slow, and high-pitched voice before coughing thrice.
"The slick priest of Raijin Port.", Stainless remarked.
"It is Governor Kasa for you young lad.", he responded, grinning.
"I have 500 men with me.", the Vice-Admiral said, pointing at his goons.
"How..."
[Coughs]
"Few... Follow me.", as they all turned in the port's direction.
Somewhere on the Island
[Metals clanking]
And then rhythmic yet pulsating steps would be heard. Growing louder as the company grows. All of them groan as they cross the path through the fields. Lightning struck a few of them but they all endured it. And as the beam of the bolts was cast upon them, hulking metal beasts would be seen. These are violent guards who strike anyone outside the pre-programmed list of residents in the land. Should they come across any outsiders, they would shoot beams without a second thought.
Back to the Port "These are specially made suits to enter this land. Without this, the cyborgs will mark you as an outsider. Never lose this.", Governor Kasa warned.
Stainless stared at Kasa, seemingly hinting something to ask. The governor would clearly grasp of course. He grinned. "Any information follows a certain amount."
"We are the government, old man."
"And we are not affiliated with anyone, don't forget that."
"Grrr.", Stainless reacted but he's got no choice so he handed over a bag of gold.
"Aaaah. Save your angry moustache for later. Yahahahaha!"
"There are only two landscapes of caverns here. The one in the west. The other is in the east. The western section is manned by three cyborg siblings. Nobody gets near that place. The eastern is guarded by lower cyborgs. The nearest to the Red Line is the latter. You have your choice."
Stainless scrutinized the old man and tried to analyse the information provided. And finally, he turned to his men. All 500 Navy swiftly straightened up their poses. Snappy all at once. Everyone sporting a lightning coat, black and sturdy. "First and second platoons; spread yourselves to the western caverns. Don't engage should you spot anyone of our suspects."
"Sir yes, sir!"
"Third and fourth platoons, to the east side. I will accompany you there."
"The fifth platoon. All 100 of you shall wait here to welcome our reinforcements. They shall be here soon."
"Sir yes, sir!"
As this happened, Kasa and all of his 12 disciples walked against the port and to the mist. When Stainless turned back to them, they all vanished into the mist.
Sephiroth and Cyla remained in the cave, their bonfire illuminating them as they continued to rest. Cyla was clearly awake, her eyes fully opened as she sat, her arms hugging her knees. Sephiroth was resting with his back against the wall, his eyes closed. It was unlikely that he was in deep sleep, because he was always on guard. But his eyes were closed, resting.
Puru puru puru... puru puru puru...
Suddenly, the Den Den Mushi sounded off. Cyla's eyes widened in surprise, while Sephiroth's eyes slowly opened from his rest. He reached into his pocket and took out the Den Den Mushi, establishing the line. The face of the Den Den Mushi was akin to a Lunarian with short, spiky white hair, and a scar. It was Gabriel.
They're here. I saw navy ships arrive to the port. They're on our trail.
Gabriel said. The look on Cyla's face was that of worry. This was clearly the worst case scenario. As for Sephiroth, he didn't seem to mind.
We will take them on here.
This type of environment suits us well.
Sephiroth said, referring to the climate of the island. Lunarians were known to be able to survive in the harshest of environments. Humans did not have that ability.
Are you sure?
Cyla asked. Sephiroth nodded, resolute. He stood up, his sword sheathed, the fire on his back burning ferociously. Cyla stood up as well, and the two started to walk.
Come to us Gabriel, we'll meet up.
Sephiroth said, before hanging up. They made their way to the entrance of the cave. Once they made it outside, they'd check the surroundings. If the coast was clear, it would be time to get moving.
Vice-Admiral Stainless tried to milk intel from the Governor of the Port, Kasa "The Priest". The latter is a greedy bastard who strikes deals in exchange for riches. A smuggler down to the core. In lieu of bags of gold, the marine officer was told of the potential hideouts of the three criminals. But that is all there is. They need to root them out from the two ranges of caverns, namely the East and the West. There shall be obstacles, to say the least.
With that, 200 soldiers were deployed to each corner of the isle; with the East being led by Stainless himself. 100 leaving the terminal to wait for the arrival of their reinforcements. Who might they be is anyone's guess but the Lunarians are proud kinds. They would face whoever fuck their way. Or mayhaps, a philosophy only applicable to the three.
A few dozen of boats roamed the crunches of the island, spreading around as they seek the preys. They wouldn't risk going into the eye of the lightning peril. With each boat, 11 passengers are aboard. 10 marines row the boat while led by a Commanding Officer, except for the one leading the way to the east which is led by the admiral. One of the men rowing the boat going to the west asked an officer, "Commander, how long does it take to reach the western side?"
"3 or 4 hours. This island is small compared to most New World habitats. It's about the size of Punk Hazard.", he responded.
"That's going to take a while, I guess. They may no longer be there when we arrive.", another marine spoke.
Marine 2: "Not happening. All exit points are now being surveyed from afar. And besides, two fleets will soon arrive."
Marine 3: "Vice-Admiral Stainless is a proud man. He can take them all by himself."
Marine 4: "But their leader trade punches with Admiral Akainu."
Commanding Officer: "That's not how you trade punches with an Admiral. Had no live coverage occurred at that time, he would have been a toasted turkey by now. But these creatures are strong. If you know the history of their homeland, you would know what I meant. They are not ordinary."
The fleet of boats going east
Vice-Admiral was telling his men about the potential threat they are facing. Briefly, he told them about their races and how they ended up on the verge of extinction. "That's the same reason why many scientists drew samples of their genes. It's amazing how a few of them have survived but I guess, that's just what they are. Formidable enough to be a well-decorated Navy Officer. Such a waste they would end up locked in cells once more."
East of Raijin
Beneath the dark clouds and the cluster of bolts pouring into the land, a Mansion embedded at the top of a rocky mountain still has its lights open. Cubiertos clanking, footsteps stomping the floor. A few more moments later and a yell would be heard from outside the dining room. "Miss Camille!"
"What's the problem of this servant?", she cursed under her breath as she sat on the chair at the side of the table facing the window, ornamented with candlelights tall as grass. Ceilings are carved meticulously so it demonstrates sparking figures of the skies hitting the mountains. A true reflection of the olden dwelling. Thunder claps in conjunction with the slamming of the door into the room. "Miss Camille!", the servant, maiden in fashion. Beautiful in her dark hair, threaded going down to the middle section of her back. Elegant in her century-old black maid dress and white apron. Lovely as ever with her eyeglass.
"You're screaming again Regina.", Camille remarked. "What's is wrong mi hija?"
"Huff. Huff. Huff.", the woman catches her breath, grabbing her titanic chest as he panted heavily. "The guards. They are talking about a situation back at the port. They said. Marines are in here looking for something."
"How long have you been here, Regina?", the lady asked, raising her left brow.
"Since I was born Miss Camille."
"And how old are you now?"
"I am 19 Miss Camille."
"19 years. And you haven't gotten used to people coming in and out of this place. Por Dios por Santo Regina is the closest Isla after crossing the borders. Marines, pirates, revolutionary armies, and even beasts just come and go. This is not a biggie. Now serve me that Menudo and Paella."
Regina started to serve the dish to her Lady carefully. And Camille is staring at her as the woman suddenly started to roll sweat from his temple. "Careful with the sweats. I don't want my dish to be extra salty."
"Por pabor, Miss Camille."
"Bueno, you may leave. And stop thinking about any outsiders. Remember, this land and particularly this mansion has survived centuries because of its unique climate. Do you ever wonder why no pirate crews tried to make this their territory? Have you ever wondered why no marines wanted this to be their base of operations even though this is the ideal one as compared to those from afar?"
"No Miss Camille."
"Hmm. It's because of those hulking figures that have lived for centuries now. It's still a wonder where they originated but the unlimited supply of energy mayhaps be the reason why they still survived. And our proud house has adopted that technology. Humans and other races. They have something in common, they get tired and they died. Cyborgs, we last for centuries for as long as the programme and the energy live. Do you know what that means?"
"Humans don't fuck with us because, at the end of the day, we shall be the last ones standing."
A proud testament from one of the Ladies of the Mansion. An indirect challenge to whoever would try to infiltrate this century-old mansion. And if anyone is fool enough to try to fight machines as strong as them, a grave is already waiting and keeps on digging. Will the Lunarians come across the three Cyborg siblings? Or will they meet the pathways of the Guardian Cyborgs who roamed the west? Regardless, the marines are on their way, and it's only a matter of time till their fates are decided.
"Muahahahaha!", a voice laughed from a foreign land. Far and beyond.
Sephiroth and Cyla walked the storm ridden lands of the Raijin Island. Lightning continued to crackle and thunder continued to roar, seemingly perpetually. As Sephiroth and Cyla walked, she looked at his back. One proud wing of black feathers, and one wing which had been burned off. Memories of the Sabaody Archipelago surfaced, and Cyla remembered the day when Admiral Akainu burned off one of Sephiroth's wings. He could no longer fly, and so they walked.
Yet, the fire on Sephiroth's back burned proudly, his determination and resoluteness never stronger and greater than they were now. Perhaps his hate for Admiral Akainu, and what he represented, kept Sephiroth determined to persevere and overcome.
Throughout their trek in the last hour or so, Sephiroth and Cyla had contacted Gabriel multiple times, coordinating their reunion. On their latest call, they all saw a castle in the distance, and so that became their meeting point. Sephiorth and Cyla approached the castle from its east direction, while Gabriel approached from the sky. Little did they all know, the destructive hour of the Raijin Island was drawing ever closer.
Looks like we've arrived.
Cyla said, the base of the castle but a kilometer or so away.
Gabriel said he will approach from the air. Try to find him.
Sephiroth said, with Cyla nodding. She flapped her wings, flying up into the air, looking around.
Surrounding Waters of East Raijin
Vice-Admiral and his company of 200 brave marines continued to battle the tides. Their respective boats rack sideways, aft, and forward. But they are fearless soldiers who aimed to root out criminals across the globe. No men shall make them feel threatened. But what's beyond their sails are nothing but men. These are creatures and nature bound to destroy the world. Lightning crackles. "Vice-Admiral!", shouted one of the men rowing the boats. Stainless knew what he was about to ask, so he would respond off the bat, "A couple of hours more."
That's the amount of time needed to cross the other side of the island without being batted by the roll of thunderbolts. Thunder clapping continues.
East of Raijin, Camille's Mansion
Metals clanking outside the front gate of the mansion. If one takes the sky to cross the land, one would see ten hulking figures of metal creatures. Each of them rises about 60 feet with two thick barrels of metals mounted into their arms. If one aims a closer view, these barrels are similar to ship cannons but quite smaller in nature. Their eyes glowed like the bolt of light from above, unaffected by its thunderstorms. They inhaled the freak of the heavens just like the air to humankind. Enter the Mechas. Piloted by the best soldiers in the East.
"This is Mecha 1 reporting. There's a distress signal coming from two kilometres beyond this point. They have headed this location."
Mecha 2: "This is acknowledged. A similar signal has also been spotted on and off in the sky."
Mecha 3: "Roger that. Informing the Ladies now."
Mecha 1 to 10: "Aye!"
Inside the Mansion "Hmm. I see.", Miss Camille said, reacting to the news conveyed by her guards outside the gates. She reached for the bell on her table and began to ring it. Moments later, Regina would be seen rushing the aisle and the corridor before finally slamming the wooden chap of the door. Entering the dining room once more, Regina asked in a hurry, "Miss Camille?"
"Wake them up. Pronto."
"Yes, Miss.", Regina acknowledged before she rushes to the ground floor and to the basement. As she entered the large room, mysterious and dark, a beam of light suddenly radiated from across the room. Two eyes glimmered in blue. It said, "Bring me two barrels of grape wine."
"Mi-miss Orianna?", the servant wondered.
"You were supposed to wake me up, no? Now hurry before I bust your head."
"Yes, miss."
"Thank you. Don't worry about my brother. I will wake him up. He doesn't like servants around when he does."
And there they are. The three royal cyborgs manning the court of East Raijin would finally gather at long last. And just like in the old times, will they be able to continue protecting the land from lightning storms? Or for the first time in history, the House of Sparks would come to an end?
A lone man approached the mansion in the darkness of the night. The lightning bolts that rained down on the land illuminated him, as did the fire on his back. One black wing was on his back, with the other burned off in a battle a few months ago - a battle that shook the world. Approaching the mansion was Sephiroth.
Cyla was up in the sky, looking to meet up with Gabriel. As for Sephiroth, he had a plan of his own. On this island, they would fight off the pursuing Marines. And this mansion could be used as a stronghold. Sephiroth wanted to make it his own. With a large gate now in front of him, blocking his way into the mansion, Sephiroth decided it was time to break in. His old self could have flown in, but that was no longer an ability that he possessed. He was ground bound.
Omori Karyudon...!
The fire on his back suddenly flared up, turning into a wild inferno. It shaped into the likeness of a massive dragon of fire, dense to the point where it almost looked like it was made of magma. Black Busou-shoku no Haki tempered and clad the dragon. Elevating his left arm, Sephiroth faced the palm of his hand toward the gate - giving the dragon of fire a direction. The dragon flew forward, colliding headfirst with the gate. Concussive force and an eruption of fire aimed to bring the gate down, giving Sephiroth entrance to the mysterious mansion.
DPR: 120: 5. Town Level + S:+4 + COA: +3 = 12. Large Continent Level
East of Raijin, Camille's Mansion
Outside the front gate of the mansion, ten Mechs patrol the area, scattered across different points. Communicating via their built-in transponder device, the pilots could alert everyone. Mecha 1 who is tasked to man the very front already informed Miss Camille of a distress signal she received a while ago but soon after that, the mysterious signals she captured finally revealed himself. Representing the tribe of Lunarians, Sephiroth "The Apocalypse".
"This is Mecha 1 reporting, the lurker finally showed himself. There is no data of his residence here."
"Permission to sho─"
[BANG!]
The Mecha couldn't even finish her request to engage the enemy when the Lunarian punk suddenly flared himself up, particularly his back. Hurling all the dense fire into his left arm, it took the form of a fire dragon. And as he raised his arm, the flames are magnified by his own will. And with a perfect swing from the rear to the front, the roaring fire dragon cut the breeze and rammed the gate open. Intentionally missing the 1st Mecha.
"We are under attack!", Mecha shouted. "Requesting for back-up! This man is too strong!"
Inside the mansion, Camille slammed the wood as she sat sipping a cup of wine. She then turned to the window, facing the front gate and saw how the gate was busted open. She couldn't believe it herself for there was no man yet alive to dare an intrusion into their lovely and comely mansion of perils. And yet, a man here stood on his own, fucking with her wits.
She rang the bell once more, yelling, "Regina! Where are─"
Before she could even finalise her command, the dining hall's door was banged by a metallic substance and opened up. "Say no more little sister."
Finally, Orianna appeared.
"Where's Victor?", Camille asked.
Orianna would respond, "He's manning the left tower. A sighting of a flying creature was caught there. I shall stay here with you. Let the Cyborg guards deal with that man for the time being. Meanwhile, I will try to gather some intel about them. I will contact the Priest."
Back to the front gates. 20 Cyborgs gather in a successive fashion and quickly, they surrounded Sephiroth and told Mecha 1 to pull back. The Cyborgs tried to reason with Sephiroth, "Stranger, leave this place now. The gate could still be fixed, but your death may not be. This is your last warning."
Barrels of shoulder weapons pointed in sync towards Sephiroth. With one mistake, he would suffer the wrath of these cyborgs all at once.
Sephiroth's dragon of fire, clad with black Busou-shoku no Haki, erupted through the front gate, sparing the guardian that stood in front of it. Sephiroth's break-in set off a hypothetical alarm inside the mansion, alerting the guardians and inhabitants of the mansion of Sephiroth's presence and actions. Quickly they mobilized, storming the location of the broken down front gate and surrounding Sephiroth. With their weapons aimed toward him and with their numbers to their advantage, they spoke, warning Sephiroth against further hostility.
I guess it wasn't uninhabited.
Sephiroth said outloud, but mostly to himself. Sephiroth looked around, counting the enemies and analyzing them for a few moments, before answering.
I am not here to fight.
A Marine force is coming to this island, intending on fighting us. But I don't plan to go down without a fight... and it will most likely destroy much of this island.
Are you allied with those scoundrels as well?
Sephiroth said, asking whether the inhabitants of this island were with the World Government. If not, perhaps progress could be made.
At this time, Cyla and Gabriel had already met up in the sky, and were descending toward the mansion. The broken down gate, the leftover embers of Sephiroth's attack, as well as Sephiroth and those that surrounded him, were all in sight.
East of Raijin, Camille's Mansion
20 powerful cyborgs have been deployed to the point of attack, the front gate. And there, they met the fearsome Lunarian, short of a wing, jet-black in nature. And after a brief warning, Sephiroth voiced himself. He told them that they weren't here to fight.
"Well, you have already destroyed our front gate and alarmed the security bells. Doesn't that warrant a spark of a fight, mayhaps?", one of the lady cyborgs said. The pointing of guns continues. Feet are slowly crawling inch after inch. Their eyes were alert, narrowing each moment.
The same woman would respond to his inquiry. "Government dogs don't touch us; neither scums. And although this country is autonomous, there are still laws we must abide by. That's why we don't shoot you yet."
As the conversation occurred, two other figures of the same race descended to the surface, one female, one male but of a much more manly and comely appearance. Staredown continues but the leader of the cyborg defence has one last thing to say.
"We are not enemies of the Government but nor are we allies with them. If they are here to hunt you, what makes you think that the Masters would just take you in and use this mansion as your fortress of defence? Do you even hear how preposterous your demand is?"
Surrounding Waters of East Raijin
"Vice-Admiral!", one of the marines yelled.
Stainless quickly followed, "Yes, I saw it. The Eastern Coast and the Mansion on top of it. We'll land in 45 minutes. Get the boys ready."
"Aye!"
Inside the Mansion "Looks like there is still an interview going on down there. Should I go down to check?", Orianna asked the head of the family.
"No. Tell Victor to back them up. These Bruscos are strong.", ordered Camille.
"No need to."
As she uttered those words, a bulky metallic figure dramatically descend from the tower to the main door. And gently he strode the ground going to the main gate where the trio of winged races are at the moment. 4 of the cyborgs turned around only to witness the dramatic entrance. Metal clanking but also, eyes glimmering like blue bolts. At the same time, the clouds above them suddenly surged and produced an abnormal collision of energies. The skies darken but the radiance of the stunning curses would beam the entirety of the battlefield as dozens of lightning streamed down to the earth, crackling and ready to destroy. The cyborgs don't need to worry for they are all immune to it. However, the Lunarians made of flesh and nerves should. No place is safe for the trio as the Gods just unleashed the wrath demons deserved.
[THUNDERS ROLL]
Each of the lightning strikes is Town Level with the status effect of Minor paralysis. Minor paralysis: affected moves slower slightly. lasts for 2 turns.
Sephiroth looked around at the Cyborgs that encircled them. This mansion could be used as a stronghold for his fight against the Marines - and if they could ally with the Cyborgs, that would lend itself well to Sephiroth's cause as well. However, the Cyborgs did not seem too keen on this idea. It appeared that, while they were not with the World Government, they were also not against them. And they would like to keep it that way. Before Sephiroth could negotiate any further, another actor joined the fray. This one was a bulky metallic figure, eyes glimmering like blue bolts of electricity.
As soon as this figure arrived, the stormy energies up in the skies started to collide and rumble. It was as if this figure was taking command of the storm to an extent. Bolts of lightning descended from the sky, striking the area, and creating a field of static pulses. Sephiroth, Cyla and Gabriel could feel the static electricity tingling their skin, leading to minor paralysis. Sephiroth moved his hand left and right, and up and down, analyzing the effects on his body. They were not too severe - but certainly bothersome in a fight. If anything, letting these Cyborgs go was dangerous. If they decided to team up with the Marines, their home field advantage could prove troublesome.
Sephiroth's eyes narrowed and a hint of bloodlust came through. The fire on his back burned ferociously, and Sephiroth spoke - this time with a more dangerous tone.
I see... so you're neutral. Well then, let me show you why you're safer and better off allying with me.
Here's my offer. I will fight you. If I win, you ally with me.
Sephiroth said. Both Cyla and Gabriel took a few steps back, as if giving Sephiroth room. Would the Cyborgs take on his challenge?
East of Raijin, Camille's Mansion ─ The Main Gate
Sephiroth was finally joined by his two Lunarian folks. They were surrounded by a platoon of cyborgs and a few mechas. However, as soon as Victor took the centre stage, everything around them suddenly changed. Even the atmosphere and the climate. Gone severe. The windstorms would take strike one after the other. Streams of lightning would plummet to the earth, striking anyone and anything in its path. No holds barred. Even the formidable defences of the trio would feel the wrath of the Gods as they started feeling a minor paralysis with each and every hit they incur.
[Rumbling continues.]
Here comes Victor, the Dreaded Steel. He spoke in a monotonous yet menacing robotic voice ─ responding to Sephiroth's offer. "No. One. Has Ever. Challenge. Me. In. A. Battle."
His voice booming across the battlefield. There were even instances when his speech would overwhelm the crackling of the skies. But above all, the fear he channelled towards his comrades was that intense they needed to retreat back to the main door that is several metres away from the scene. "BUT."
"IF. WOMAN. WINS. VICTOR. FOLLOWS. HE. IS. SLAVE."
Victor said in a much ferocious and commanding demeanour. He wouldn't fight Sephiroth not because he felt he was strong. But this is a matter of self-preference. There's no thrill in fighting a handicapped warrior. Victor pointed his index metallic finger at Cyla as he was struck by a lightning approximately 10 meters in radius. The ground beneath him and the area surrounding him seemed to be ploughed from the roots but when the obscurity cleared. We will witness how Victor hasn't even harmed a piece. He laughed, maniacally.
[Rumbling continues.]
"The. Rest. Of. You. Go. Inside.", he referred to Gabriel and Sephiroth. "Sisters. Waiting."
[Rumbling continues.]
Inside the Mansion
Orianna: "Looks like our baby brother has found a new toy."
Camille: "And he let the other two enter the mansion. How thoughtful Victorito is."
The two women chuckles. "The one-winged man is mine. ", Orianna added. Maliciously.
Lightning continued to rumble with Victor's presence. These Cyborgs seemed to have control of the weather itself - a true pinnacle of technological advancement. Sephiroth challenged Victor to a fight - one that would decide if they had to follow him. However, Victor denied the proposal. Instead, he proposed something different. Stating that he does not fight men, he would instead challenge Cyla to a duel, and if she won, he would follow her like a slave.
Tsch...
What a preposterous statement. What does he mean he doesn't fight men, only women? And if he lost, he would become Cyla's slave? Everything about Victor's answer was ridiculous. However, Cyla wouldn't let this pointless conversation go on any longer. She stepped forward with a glimmer in her eyes.
It's fine Sephiroth... I'll take him on. We don't have time to mess around here. You guys go in.
Cyla said, walking forward and reaching for the Shinigami's scythe on her back. She wielded it in her right hand. Both Sephiroth and Gabriel jumped, going over the encirclement and landing closer to the entrance to the mansion. Once in front of the door, Sephiroth would knock. Apparently, these people didn't like getting their gates crashed through.
As for Cyla, she swung her scythe around a couple of times, as if warming up.
Well then, let's do this...
Cyla said, spreading her wings wide. She swung her scythe one more time. This time, Ignition set the blade ablaze and the swing unleashed a circular wave of fire, spreading outward and threatening to blow everyone away, as well as cut and burn them in the process. Black Busou-shoku no Haki clad and tempered the wave of fire, giving it further concussive and cutting force.
Ignition Wave...!
DPR: 81-100: 3. Large Building Level + A:+3 + COA: +2 = 8. Island Level
Cyla vs Victor
The youngest of the manor's pride chose his opponent. And for tonight's feast, it would be Cyla. A female Lunarian of foreign exquisite beauty. Quite tall for a regular woman. But the shade of her skin matches her long black hair, including her quite muscular physique would send a thrill to the frozen heart of Victor. "Such. Beauty.", he remarked as the lady in front of him took the centre stage, flaunting her elegant black wings. And after Gabriel and Sephiroth exited the scene, she swung her blade twice to warm herself up. It would only take a brief moment before she swings another. Horror would soon unloose. The cyborg spread his awareness and scanned the prominence of the pretty Lunarian. "Get. Down.", he warned the others who are already far away before Cyla even stepped forward.
And it happened. For after that motion, a circular slash of flame, potentially being magnified by the wind would spring forward. "Bad.", he said before raising his right metal arm across his face, covering his chest. The limb in question would morph into an elliptical shield to protect himself from harm. But this is no ordinary steel. It could withstand even the sharpest blows of lightning. Fire would mean nothing in this moment of time. At least for the time being.
The airspace between Cyla and Victor whooshed as soon as the projectile of the element was unloosed. And when it rammed the shield, it produced a whirring sound before the latter was pushed back a couple of meters back defending himself. The steel withstood the blow but something bigger was determined after that. "Haki.", he remarked. And it was at that moment that he knew, he was up to something else. "Juicy.", he added.
When the attack finally settled down, he looked at the distance he travelled and the ground that was ploughed up. It was remarkable. And he knew, the woman has so much more to show. He rose to his full height from that crouching position. "ME... TURN..."
And as soon as he said that, several thunderbolts would strike once more in the area of the fight. This would most likely hit Cyla as the streams of lightning cover the entire battlefield. Even the after-effect of the bolts would somewhat affect anyone in the vicinity, with the exception of Victor of course. And the cyborg is a dirty fighter, he would display this in this instance, for when the bolts of lightning streamed down, he raised his two palms and released a concentrated beam of energy from it forward to Cyla. Magnifying the destructiveness of the beam, Haki was employed into it. "WELCOME. TO. RAIJIN."
DPR: 81-100: 3. Large Building Level + A:+3 + COA: +2 = 8. Island Level
Inside the Mansion
Regina heard a few knocks on the front wood and she rushed to it. She stands several meters away from the door knowing what trouble awaits her. But worry no more, for Camille entered the scene. "Miss?!", a shocked Regina said for Camille seldom gets outside of the dining room. "Mi hija. Go get yourself a nice margarita. You don't need to see this."
The other followed. "Bueno.", she uttered before telling the two butlers standing at the front door, behind the two Lunarians to open the door. The door creaked while the butlers slowly pulled the woods inside. And slowly, she would have a glimpse of the two massive creatures outside the mansion with the lightning in their background. Such marvellous men, she thought. The marvel of seeing what was said to be an extinct race, she now seeing face to face. She grinned. And later on, smiled gently while closing her two eyes dear. If the two boys would enter without any retaliation, the lady would greet them sweetly, "Hola! Welcome to Raijin! Soy Camilla dela Trinidad, la hermana de Victorito. ¿tú como te llamas?"
She welcomed the two, smiling, gracing her two hands at the side as she held her skirt slightly before bowing a little.
Cyla's infernal flying slash spread outward, aiming to blow all of her enemies away, as well as cut them and burn them in the process. The weaker ones ducked, while Victor decided to take the attack head on. Propping up a shield, he dug his feet into the soil and braced himself. The flying slash collided with his shield. It was an anti lightning shield, so it was great at withstanding heat - but the sheer concussive force behind Cyla's attack, augmented by the black Busou-shoku no Haki, took Victor by surprise, pushing him a fair distance away. However, he managed to withstand the attack overall, showing a grit that was expected of a heavy Cyborg.
Victor stated that it was his turn, and the lightning from the heavens rumbled. Cyla knew what was coming, as she had seen it earlier. When the lightning strikes came down, Cyla spun around, swinging her scythe. Powerful flames trailed the swing of her scythe, and Cyla unleashed a massive fire inferno, using it as a defensive barrier against the paralyzing static electricity. Invisible Busou-shoku no Haki tempered the spinning wall of fire, making for a great defensive barrier. When Victor fired lasers of lightning from his hands, Cyla went into another spin, keeping the inferno of fire up and continuing her defense.
81-100: 3. Large Building Level + S:+4 + COA: +1 = 8. Island Level
By the time the lasers of lightning faded, so did the inferno of fire. Well aware that going up against Victor's shield would be impossible from a distance, Cyla decided to take the fight into a close quarters match. She was confident that she was significantly lighter and faster than Victor. Pushing off of the ground and flapping her wings at the same time, Cyla rushed toward Victor. Once in range, she swung her scythe diagonally upward, aiming to inflict a deep, burning cut from Victor's right hip all the way up to his left shoulder. Fire trailed the swing of the scythe and black Busou-shoku no Haki clad the blade, forming a powerful attack.
Ignition Slash...!
DPR: 81-100: 3. Large Building Level + A:+3 + COA: +2 = 8. Island Level
Deeper into the property, Sephiroth and Gabriel had reached the front door to the mansion. They knocked, and before long, the door opened. Sephiroth and Gabriel walked inside, their relatively tall statures towering over normal people, if there were any. A few meters down the corridor, Camille awaited the two Lunarians, welcoming them. She proceeded to introduce herself, as well as ask for Sephiroth's and Gabriel's names. Not that they would know that, for they couldn't understand her. She did not speak the common tongue - instead speaking in one that Sephiroth and Gabriel did not recognize.
It appears she speaks a strange tongue...
Gabriel commented. However, the first part of what she had said, was in the common tongue. So clearly she did speak it. Sephiroth decided to ignore the rest that he could not understand, and brought the topic back at hand.
My name is Sephiroth, a proud Lunarian. I havw come to this mansion to use it as a stronghold against the Marine force that is after us.
Inadvertently, Camille had gotten what she asked for - Sephiroth's name.
Inside the Mansion
The duo of flame-conjuring creatures entered the mansion. The reception hall is rather well-maintained despite the perceived hostility beyond its walls. Never ever judge a book from its cover. There are grandiose pieces of furniture, wooden of the finest craftsmen ─ ornamented chairs, tables, and ceilings. The carpet is well-furnished, leaving dust in its most shameful absence. Truly a dwelling of nobility. But to Sephiroth and Gabriel's surprise, they would be met by the house mistress herself. An ideal reception to two of the remaining few forces of nature indeed.
Camille welcomed them with his native tongue but it appeared, they were not acquainted with such strange vernacular. She would resort to the universal one. But before she would respond, she scrutinised the physiques of the two bold men. Arrogant and elegant. But at the same time, towering ever. Macho guapitos, needless to say. Camille and Orianna would look like a toddler if they'd stand nearby, standing only 5 foot 6. A nerve-tingling atmosphere would strike the two as early as Camille speaks. "Sephiroth? The first of the blessed ones". She said as she tucked her hair behind her right ear and smiled at them but she stared longer at Gabriel. She crossed her arms and pressed them against her chest, flaunting the tenderness of her heart to the most-cultured form. "You have an incredible name, don't you. And you, my sweet darling?", she referred to Gabriel, maintaining her strong Hispanic accent, emphasising the 'R' consonants.
Regardless of whether Gabriel would give up his name, Camille would address the other. "You desire to make this mansion your fortress against the world government. You do realise how strongly demanding your demands are, don't you? Hahahaha!"
"My sister and I have dreamed of something. Two young and muscular men entered our shelter. We don't know yet if they were you but I would love to hear a trade coming from you. Dela Trinidads have a proud history of defending the East of Raijin, be careful of subsequent actions.", she enders, vanishing the smile away off her face. What would Sephiroth do?
Cyla vs Victor
Victor took his turn to fire a beam of lightning towards Cyla. Mirroring the initial strength of the projectile thrown at him by the latter. But there's more. Streams of lightning also descended from the heavens, all targeting the location of the lone Lunarian. The bolts crackled, following a tremendous radiance that almost made the night a day. However, as soon as these combinations of natural calamity and scientific advancement sprang forward Cyla, she immediately spun in order to create a vortex of fire to protect herself against the incoming. Victor amusingly watched as the lady did her resolve against him. But.
"?!!"
As early as the bluish elements were decimated by the red flares, Victor suddenly realised that Cyla started to become more hostile, thanks to his Color of Observation. But how far could his observation see? Whilst thinking of this, Cyla sped forward, almost a blur to his mortal eyes. If not only because of the sudden change of wind coming his way, he would have not caught up with her speed. Nonetheless, she was fast and that's a fact he couldn't ignore.
Appearing a few distances in front of him, the girl swung her sword diagonally upwards as both willpower and fire trailed the attack. She was aiming for his hip up to his shoulders. But as an awareness haki user, he quickly sensed how equally strong this attack was with the prior one and he knew that his metal gear would withstand the attack. So that, he would tank them on. It rammed the suit but the fire would not affect him. Notwithstanding that, Victor would be sent flying upwards before landing on the ground. He would slowly pick himself up. "STRONG. WOMAN. ME. LIKEY."
Cyla would notice that when her attack landed against his suit, a sensation that would only be felt in close proximity is present. It's as if, her fire is being siphoned by the armour. It's as if, it's being stored. Is this a testament to intangibility? Invulnerability? Or is this something scientific that could only be figured out through a certain level of knowledge? Something that subjects of scientific experiments could tell. Regardless, there has to be a catch. Up to what extent could Victor 'store' energy in his gear?
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