Out in the country side with no large settlements or civilization, the animals in the forests go about their usual routine. Eating, hunting, scavenging, everything proceeds as normal with two exceptions. A unique two headed white dragon flying stationary in place, and the other more clearer exception that was harder to miss. At the center of the valley engulfing multiple mountains in it's circle, the inhabitants look up to the newest addition of their life style.
Happening for a few weeks now to the wild life and it not really causing any harm, they have mostly just gotten used to it. The swirling white pillar of smoke going around in what looked like slow motion and not causing any fierce winds or earthquakes, the birds fly super close and animals actively play biting and scratching at the smoke. It's height dwarfing that of anything nearby, the only clear indication of where the very top of it is from down below is a second more solid blue pillar of energy. The white dragon flying in place watching the cloud skyscraper closely, a few birds have comfortably landed and are actively sleeping in her soft fur. Wolf pups getting close and continuing to playfully bite at the slow moving wall of smoke, it expands and retracts quickly scaring the small wolf pack away. Slowly coming together and returning at the source, the wildlife that was trapped in it just looked around in confusion. The white cloud seeping into his body, the Calamity dragon Ryuka takes quick ragged breaths as the last of it enters him. His chest and veins glowing a hue of purple as some of his scales turned white, the purple quickly changes into a burning red color. Recognizing the red color inside him and what it meant, A.O. dives down at full speed in a frenzy but is to late. The center of his chest violently exploding, Ryuka is blown backwards taking the full brunt of it. The shockwave created blowing A.O. back, they look down unable to find him on the surface.
Silvko: Negative feedback explosion great, most likely under rubble.
If true and if he was under, A.O. dives down and they quickly start digging before he runs out of air. A cluster of rocks rising and falling down, A.O. slaps the stack away with her tail and find Ryuka underneath. Multitasking, Silvko continues to dig him out with Silvka immediately applying healing magic.
Silvka: Father! Are you alright?!
Y/N:...I have a HOLE in my chest...How Do You THINK I'm Doing!?
Silvka: I-I don't know! Um..."Peachy"......maybe...-?
Y/N: NOOOOO...!!!
Ryuka's head going back down and hitting the floor, Silvko finishes digging him out and straightens his upper half up. The healing progressing and his body calming down, Ryuka's chest and scales going back to his normal blue color. Picking him up and onto his feet, Silvka quickly catches him before he falls over. Trying to steady the heavy dragon, A.O.'s expressions worry when they see Ryuka not in a pained state but one of frustration. Completely ignoring the life dangering wound he inflicted in his chest mere moments ago, Ryuka had one thing on his mind, he once again failed.
Y/N: Dammit...why won't you work...
Trying to find a new way to increase his potential power multiple times over, every time he fails and puts himself in grave danger made him angry at himself. Knowing what could happen if he goes over the edge and possibly kills himself, he just wanted it to work and to get this over with as quickly as possible.
Still feeling the after affects of the blast with Ryuka barely able to stand on his own two feet, A.O. both had either worried or at least concerned expressions. Them being there for him to heal after and making him feel comfortable to do these dangerous tests, they had to basically watch him explode himself over and over unable to do anything. Not considering them moment to moment and stressing them out, Ryuka lets out a puff of air through his nose and pats them on the head.
Y/N: Don't worry, I'll be fine. Let's go before someone sees us, we'll try again another day.
Ryuka trying his best to give a smile grin to reassure them, they simply look down while being petted looking indifferent.
Silvko:...The Silvko and her sister understands...
Conjuring a teleportation gate in front of them, A.O. holds onto and carries the limping Ryuka through it. Passing through and arriving at their destination, they reach the large cave A.O. have dug for themselves. Numbered carving placed against the wall and using their fast arsenal of skills and magic, it looked much like the cavern they made before by the beach. Ryuka turning and nodding to her, they acknowledge it and lets him go. Hugging the wall and getting a good distance away, he breaths in and out and one of the many symbols grafted onto his wings starts to shift and change becoming a black ink substance.
Y/N: Phantom Illusion...
The wind encircling and covering him in a tornado, Ryuka begins to shrink in size slowly. The tornado slowly going away, Ryuka was once again in his second starter evolution. No surface level wounds on him, he still felt an unbearable pain in his chest. Phantom Illusion able to even trick the body that it doesn't have any wounds, the user would still feel the pain as if it was still there long after the fact. Trying tp push past the pain, he goes over to the carved number wall and adds one more dash to the wall. Large with each dash corresponding to one symbol on his wing, they were a limited resource he needed to keep track of mentally and physically.
The testing itself doesn't use any Calamity Pre-System symbols, but transforming back with phantom Illusion does each time. If I add the 3 used before the academy and the 11 after Illusion transformations, that's 36 left. Take off 7 for all those failed useless attempts at using Pre-System magic to get it to work, I only have 29 left...
Silvka seeing the wall and watching her father's limited source of symbols quickly depleting these past months, she starts to get nervous.
Silvka: For such powerful things used before the system, it's scary how fast most of them are going for simply keeping your identity hidden Father...
Silvko: The Silvko's father doesn't partake in any activities directly. Possible to stay but still keep contact.
Y/N: Yeah, that's a good idea and would definitely get the greenlight from the witch if I asked, but that would just complicate things. The other reincarnations would ask questions and if one of her many, MANY elf spies saw me near the Academy in my Calamity form, they would tell her father and her life is basically gone along with mine. I'm in too deep and have to see my stupid headache to the end. Aagh, why of all things did this have to be a stupid trial and error puzzle...!?
Scratching the back of his head and growling, this was way outside his area. Relying mostly on his raw physical strength and abilities, he wasn't the type to figure out things out of his control. Punching a rock, he could do. Learning Pre-System spells, he at least had some physical books for reference. Figuring out the twisting turning paths of a maze and the nearly endless experiments one after another, no. Just getting back and stressing himself, A.O. tries to get his attention off of it and to something else.
Silvko: Late at night in this part of the world and very cold out. Does Father wish for the Silvko and her sister to assist?
Y/N: Nah. I can handle a little cold and I can still take on a grown forest bear even with these injuries and form. You can go to sleep if you wa-
Walking over to the entrance of the cave about to start his march back, a distant booming thunder strike makes him lose his train of thought. Far away covering most of the horizons skies, a massive storm shoots down blue thunderbolts every minute or two down on the ground below. The amount of rain pouring down at such a force and quantity, it sounds like a constant earthquake miles away. Some rivers starting to form and flow in their direction, it would hit way before he ever made it back to the academy on foot.
Y/N:......I, think I'll take you up on that offer.
Silvka: Alright!
Silvko: We'll send you just outside of Oka's room.
Making another teleportation gate like the one they arrived in, Ryuka turns back to the twins to give his farewells.
Y/N: Thanks, for coming out again today. If you two start to get lonely or want to try new Earth food, I'll have a talk with Yuri and see what we're able to make.
Silvka: That would be awesome! There are so many new foods we want to try out!
Silvko: The Silvko personally wishes to request the "Pineapple on pizza" variant next time.
All agreeing to have another earth food dinner within the cave sometime in the future, Ryuka goes through the gate with it closing moments behind him. Alone to their own devices, Silvka starts imagining all the possible Earth foods yet to come with a gleeful smile.
Silvka: Hmm I wonder what's in store next time. But Pizza again? Really?
Silvko: The Silvko has heard the "Pineapple" adds many additions flavor wise. Interested.
Silvka: New additions? Well, Father did give a weird look when you mentioned it a while ago. Almost as if he heard an abomination...
Silvko: Irrelevant. I wish to try it.
Silvka: You know, being together all these years, your still a tricky one to get a handle on.
A.O. continuing to chat, a subtle but sudden shift Silvka saw in the corner of her eyes made her slowly turn her head around and towards the sky. Ignoring her and suddenly looking up for no clear reason, Silvko tilts her head to the side.
Silvko: Admiring stars?
Silvka: Oh no, it's probably nothing, but...did that storm just change directions?
--------
Ryuka passing through the gate and exiting into the Academy from the inside, he now stands in a long hallway with the door to Oka's room on his right. The gate silently disappearing, the small wyrm slowly opens the door and tiptoes in. Getting in and trying to close the door as quiet as possible, he breaths a sigh of relief as it finally closes and it seems like it's in the clear. Turning around, his eyes were suddenly assaulted with a big bright light. Quickly putting his hands in front of his eyes to cover up, Ryuka's heart stops when he sees the elf Oka sitting in a chair. Her legs crossed holding a stack of papers in one hand, she has the desk lamp set to full power pointing directly at the entrance. An big wide smile on her face, she gives Ryuka a greeting.
Oka: Oh heeey Ryuka! Pretty late for a stroll, isn't it?
Y/N:...............Were you...waiting in complete darkness this entire time-?
Oka:-I got some INTRESTING reports from a few witnesses in the countryside. Something about a "White tree piercing the Heavens", know anything about that? 😊
Reading off the stack of papers in her hands, Oka turns to Ryuka to acquire about it. Giving a gentle looking but sinister smile, a booming thunderstrike lands behind her silhouette through the window bathing her in it's light. Feeling like something out of a horror movie and found out, Ryuka tried to play it as cool as he could.
Y/N:.........No.
Oka: Oh! Well from the reports it also talks about a "Winged creature with what looked like blue veins on his chest going throughout his entire body" at the center of that said tree.
Y/N: There are some dragons with giant red crystal spikes growing out of them, I bet if you looked hard enough you would find a ton of matches!
Oka: But additionally there was also a few reports talking about a "Mysterious 2 headed dragon flying high above and circling" that cloud occasionally.
.........
.........
.........
Y/N:......I'm not getting out of this, am I?
Oka: Nope, you not. You were instructed to stay in the academy trying to keep the knowledge of Calamity a secret, and the first moment I look away you teleport halfway around the world creating giant smoke skyscrapers people could see half the continent away. Are you trying to scream "Here I Am!!"?
Oka's attitude change and acting like she understood his situation, Ryuka got increasingly irritated. Closing his eyes and trying to calm down knowing arguing would only make this worse, Ryuka faced and spoke to her in a way that the situation needed.
Y/N: Well what was I suppose to do Oka? Ariel and those douches of a dragon and rabbit god are still out there! They could appear at any time and SNEEZE a town away. And with what happened 14 years ago, that dragon god and especially Ariel might still be hunting for me! I needed to take a risk and find a way to even the field further...
Oka: If they are hunting you, why didn't they kill you while you were vulnerable in that web cocoon for all those years?
Making a good point and realizing it himself, Ariel's goal was to kill him and stop the threat Calamity faced to the world all those years ago. Undoubtably coming back to investigate the Queen Taratect, she must have seen him there. But what exactly changed between the Overbooster battle and after? Oka still waiting for an answer, Ryuka simply looks down on the ground unable to provide one.
Y/N: I...
Oka: Besides, whether if they do appear one day or not after your awakening is irrelevant. You directly went against my wishes and put us all in jeopardy, you know I can't just let you go without any punishment, right? And I think I have the PERFECT one in mind...
Oka getting an twisted idea she lets out another unnerving smile as booming thunderbolts flashes behind her through the window again and crows caw outside. A rarely seen side of her he only witnessed once or twice in passing, Ryuka stood frozen with his nerves shut down.
--------
--------The Next Day
Very early in the morning with the sun barely risen, the earth wyrm Fei quietly sleeps in her bed next to Shun. Feeling extra comfortable and relax today, Fei nuzzles up and unconsciously decides to sleep in for the day. The only noises being the birds and intense weather outside, her ear twitches as a extremely quiet wood creaking sound is made. Figuring she was just hearing things and it's from a room right next door, a "Click" sound than rings out followed by several footsteps. Cranky morning groaning as the sound got closer, her eyes slowly begin to open on their own growing wider with each blink. Lifting her upper body up half asleep and about to let out the first yawn of the day, she is suddenly grabbed by the shoulders and violently rocked back and forth. Fully awake and alive now with her eyes as wide as they could be, Ryuka slightly pulls Fei along while trying to make as little noise as possible.
Y/N: (Fei! Get up now! We gotta go before that witch and the others wake up!)
Fei: R-Ryuka?! Why are you in my-?!
Y/N:(Shhh, what did I just say?! Quiet and quickly!)
Fei: Quiet and quickly where?!
Y/N:(Just hurry up! I'll explain later!)
Fei: HUH??? I don't-Waaaah?!?!
In a hurry and giving up on trying to hide his strength, Ryuka straight up picks her up like a toy over his head and starts running. Having no idea what's happening, the bewildered Fei thrashes around while being carried away.
--------
Carrying her outside and a good enough distance away from the Academy, Ryuka drops Fei on the hard rock floor. Her butt hurt and rubbing it, Fei bursts out angry at Ryuka after essentially kidnapping her.
Fei: What's the big idea?!
The angry and slightly bigger earth worm Fei hovering over and about to punch Ryuka in the face, he held his arms out trying to put distance.
Y/N: Ok, I know it looks bad, and it is, but hear me out. You sorta asked for this awhile back and I'm just finally doing it.
Trying to recall and figure out what he's talking about, she remembers her drowning experience several weeks ago and calms down to a degree.
Fei: Oh, you mean...
Y/N: Pretty much. Oka recently made a decision last night, for no particular reason, that long distance magic target practice would be moved to today. So while the other reincarnations and students practice with splish splashy water magic and whatever else, we're going to do some training!
Fei: So sneak off and do our own private training while the others do theirs...wait, why did we have to do this in secret?
Ryuka's demeanor changing when she asked that, all the color leaves his face as it turns to look away from her.
Y/N: I just...really wanted to get out of there quickly......A-And anyway! It's just so bright and sunny out today, I figured it was the right time!
Fei:......A hurricane thunderstorm is happening right outside...
Pointing out the chaos outside, a tree instantly bursts on fire as a powerful thunderbolt strikes it far away. A heavy shower of rain and mid weather winds rocking the landscape and about to hit their area, multiple smaller/dead trees have been unearthed and sent flying. The spot Ryuka dumped Fei being inside a small third cave A.O. herself turned into sand and hallowed out, it was originally intended to be an emergency halfway meeting point from where A.O. currently resided and the Academy. A natural barrier against the elements, as long as they stayed inside they should be okay when it arrived. Fei looking up towards the spot where the sun should be, black clouds cover the sky blocking even a sliver of light from coming through.
Fei: You can't even tell if It's day or not...
Y/N: Yeah...it, was actually a lot calmer a few minutes ago. It just HAD to change directions and come our way huh? Guess we're stuck here till it passes-
Fei:-And Whose Fault Was That?! Ah, I might as well make the most of this. So...how should we start? You must have picked up some things from being in Elroe, so, lay it on me. Pushups? Sit-ups?...Juice?
Hearing Fei's super basic and simplistic on how to begin training, Ryuka almost scoffs at it.
Y/N: You think we're going to do something like that? Sorry, not sorry but that's not how this works. Unlike in our world where a wimp can become super buff with enough gym time, the max we can do here is limited by the system at skill level strength "10". You'll unlock stronger strength versions when you do reach 10 but that's not enough, what you need is to start leveling up and evolving!
Fei: Yeah, one problem with that genius, what the heck am I suppose to kill? To get experience towards evolving you need to end a living creature.
Y/N: Don't worry, I already thought of that! A.O. will remotely control elemental golems from far away and use them to beat the ever loving snot out of you!
Fei:.........Huh?
Y/N: Even though they aren't alive, as long as a being with high intelligence is controlling them, the system will treat them as minions and you'll still get exp. It's actually kind of amazing, you can basically have a whole army of summoned elemental monsters ranging from monkeys to dragons ready to let you walk all over them and get stronger!
Ryuka's plan simplifying and making for limitless possibilities, Fei had a big excited smile on her face.
Fei: So...it's a free all you can get XP farm?
Y/N: Don't get me wrong though, we're not letting you have it that easy. If you instantly evolved to like your 5th evolution, you wouldn't know what to do and lose control of your power. Essentially, their creations won't be hard enough to seriously hurt you but not too easy for you to not have any challenge at all.
And just like that, Fei's hopes and dreams for a quick and easy training course was crushed.
Fei:...I mean, you COULD let me easily kill a few dragon elementals and let me practice at my 3rd evolution at least-
Y/N: Did You Not Listen To Anything I Said?! Plus it just wouldn't be fare, to me or them...IF I HAD TO GO THROUGH PAIN AND HAVE THOSE TWO SACRIFICE THEMSELVES FOR ME TO GET WHERE I AM SO ARE YOU!!! IN FACT, YOU HAVE TO WORK EVEN HARDER THAN I DID IF ANYTHING!!!
Screaming at the top of his lungs with a fiery passion, she simply stares at him with an unbelievable expression wanting to immediately point out his small basketball stature right there on the spot. Remembering back to how Rend and Araba willingly forfeiting their lives to help him grow, the thought of using this cheat and making their sacrifice pointless didn't sit right with Ryuka. While wanting to follow their example and earn it as they would have as a proud dragon Araba wanted, he didn't want to limit or put his own self restrictions on her. Being silent for a few moments in front of him, Fei saw an unmovable look in Ryuka's eyes. Knowing he won't change his mind no matter what she does, Fei's head eventually sways to the side as she sighs conceding.
Fei: Fine, whatever. We'll do it your way I guess...
Y/N: Alright. If you understand, than we can get this show on the road.
Ryuka's head turning toward the upon air above him, he starts speaking to their silent watchers above.
Y/N: You hear that you two?! Make some wind and water elementals near us! For what they'll be...let's go with a bunch of wind bees and a couple water centipedes to begin. Think you two can handle controlling multiple at once from where you are?
After finishing his request to the both of them, the air and water droplets on the floor begin to drift and clump together. Growing into decent masses, they begin to take form into a number of individual bees and centipedes. Most of them ready and facing Fei, one of each of them turn around to Ryuka and their creators voices come through.
Silvka: Not a problem!
Silvko: Task, manageable.
Y/N: Good. Now remember to go "Medium" difficulty against her. Not to hard to hurt but not to easy where she didn't earn it. If you understand then I'll watch from far away.
Ryuka climbing up a rockwall and getting to a small platform where he can sit crisscross, he gives a thumbs up to signal the go ahead. The dozen-ish water centipedes and wind bees slowly approaching her, Fei get's a little intimidated before slapping both sides of her face trying to pump herself up.
Fei: Ok, you can do this. It's just some stupid not real and creepy looking bugs...
Getting on all fours and using them to run like a wolf, she jumps up and lands directly into the crowd of centipedes. Slashing and punching them with her claws and fangs, they try to fight back but get easily thrown around by the earth wyrm. Sitting above while she engages with A.O.'s creations, Ryuka uses appraisal on Fei and starts scrolling through her stats for reference.
So what am I working with? Her base strength seems to be stronger than when I was at my second evolution at least......lucky her. She's a earth dragon just like the ones in Elroe but is she really capable of becoming a powerhouse tank like Kaguna or a mix physical/magical attacker like Araba? I mean, she barely has any useful skills. One of the only level 10 skills she has is "Relaxation" and that's not going to help with-WAIT THAT'S A REAL SKILL??!! Ah, I hate to admit it but maybe my dragon dad Araba was right for letting me fend for myself and getting stronger in a harsh place like Elroe......Hmm?
Noticing something while scrolling and checking fei's abilities, Ryuka sees a strange set. Not under any Specific category like Titles or Skills, It's just "There" within it all.
[ n % I = W]
A random selection of letters with no description or function, Ryuka wonders if it's some kind of glitch. The system sorta acting like a game with levels and getting corrupted when he was trying to analyze the rabbit god, it wasn't impossible. Making sure she wasn't an isolated case, Ryuka does his own self inspection. Scrolling through his own stats and acquired skills, he goes all the way to the very bottom finding something strange. SUPER small compared to the other skills and in a "Thin" font, it was as if it was purposely shut away in the back making it hard to find.
[ m % Y = N]
Different from Fei's but having a similar format, they were close enough to almost be the same but just have enough to separate them. Also no description and now confirmed she wasn't a weird glitchy exception, maybe they weren't the only ones.
Y/N: Do the other reincarnation have these [%=] things? No monsters in Elroe had them, that's for sure! If it is actually a "Glitch" glitch that could do something, I might have to call a truce with that witch and ask just in cas-
Fei: Hey Orange!!
Calling up to him from below in a loud yell, Ryuka looks down and sees that nearly all the low scale water centipedes and wind bees have all been punched or slapped away by the still powerful beginner dragon. A lot of cuts and bruises all over her body and her breathing uneven, her body starts to quickly repair itself with her blue scales beginning to fall off and her energy restored. The restoration side-effect of leveling up taking effect before him, it was proof Fei did indeed grow. Taking out the low danger creations easier than expected and better than ever after getting healed, it gave her a big confidence boost.
Fei: Is this all you got?! I'm waiting for a challenge over here!
Y/N:......Riiiight. A.O., make a giant killer fire snake and three of those John Cena apes for Earth.
Bursting out of the ground sending clumps of lava flying in all directions, a humongous snake made entirely of fire overshadowed Fei completely. Letting out an ear piercing screech breathing fire, three big muscly apes capable of throwing her around like a ball crawled out of the ground like zombies. Staring the small Fei down, all her confidence disappears as soon as she got it with her face turning extremely pale. Going from 3 to 15 so quickly, Fei angrily turns to Ryuka demanding for an explanation.
Fei: THIS IS A BIG LEAP FROM BEES AND CENTIPIEDS!!!
Y/N: Well, how else am I going to gauge what you can do past your stats? Sometimes it's about quick thinking and LUCK that determines if your good! Now, Silvka, Silvko, ATTACK!!!
Fei: DON'T SICK THEM ON ME AS IF THEY WERE GUARD DOGS!!!
Her objection not stopping their order, the three apes begin to overly dramatic hit their chest and yell wildly in the air. The pure fire snake slithering and scorching the area as it scarily rushed her, Fei jumped backwards as the humongous snake bit and destroyed the spot she was in moments ago. Life flashing before her eyes, they don't give her time to rest as the three apes jumped wildly in the air heading for her. Crawling away nearly missing them and transitioning into a four legged sprint, they were all on the small wyrm's tail never giving her a moment to rest. While running away for her life, Ryuka screams down to her trying to give her encouragement.
Y/N: Don't Worry!! Compared to the first one this isn't a "Pass or fail" fight! Just Try Your Best!!
Fei: I HATE YOU!!!
Y/N: GOOD!!! Use Your Anger To Give You Strength!!
Leaving the runaway Fei behind and sitting back relaxed, Ryuka let out a satisfied sigh with himself.
Y/N: Good job Ryuka, I think you might have a knack for this...
Fei: AAAAAAAAH!!!
--------
--------At The Academy
Being led outside in the courtyard by Oka, a long line of students walk out with raincoats and equipment they need for the lesson. The black storm that was enveloping the land still raging above them, the sky turns an azure blue as a thunderstrike flashes and strikes down. Right to the academy, the students all scream and crouch down in fear as it lands against some dome blocking it. The electricity dispersing throughout the dome, the students all start to slowly stand up and breath a sigh of relief. Also on the ground with the other reincarnations, Katia wipes the sweat from her forehead.
Katia: Jeez, I know we're safe behind the barrier but it still doesn't make it any less scary.
Shun: Agreed...
A powerful forcefield made by the staff of the academy to prevent the lightning from hitting, it allowed physical entities like water and people to instantly pass through but stopped large collections of energy from entering. Getting back in line and waiting for Oka to explain this outdoor water trip, Shun has a small but heavy mass holding down his arm. Turning to it, the young prince gives a nervous smile as he tries to ask politely.
Shun: I think you can let go now Sue...
Having blue and shorter than him, Shun's younger sister Sue is holding and very tightly clutching his right arm. In response to his request, Sue simply crushes his arm harder not loosening up.
Sue: Big brother is invincible so I'll be safe as long as I'm with you!
Shun: Well, as long as being with me means your not scared, I guess you can hold on a bit longer...
Getting soaked with all the tiny water droplets passing through the barrier and thinking it was going to be an easy lesson yesterday, some of the students started to get agitated with Hugo leading the pack with a bunch of his followers behind him.
Hugo: Yo Teach!! Do we really have to do this now in this stupid rain? Couldn't you have picked some other time?!
Yuri: Hugo!!
The calm Yuri trying to calm him down, Oka raises a finger as high as she could in the air after licking it slightly with her tongue.
Oka: It hasn't been 100% proven but some studies say that the environment and weather conditions can sometimes increase the power of certain magic. If it does turn out to be true this is just the PERFECT weather to get your magic to PLUS ULTRA!!! It would almost be a crime to stay inside today!
A number of students still displeased, none raised their voices in rejection. Oka having a "Unique" personality, there was no saying "No" to her when she got like this. The students and especially the reincarnations understanding this, they all started to huddle around her as she started to explain what they'll be doing exactly.
Oka: Ok everybody! For todays magic training, we're doing elemental wand blasts! Since we don't have enough time to set targets and since he is more than capable enough to physically handle it and has been "Trained" to not fight back, the target will be my own familiar Ryuka! Although it's going to be a little different this time around. ANYTHING GOOES!!! As long as you don't use something as dangerous as lightning magic in this rain, your free to use whatever you like to hit him! The more hits, the more points you get!
Putting a giant bullseye on the small dragon while having such a fun and excited attitude about it, whispering and talking erupted among the students with conflicting feelings. The girls worried for the safety of that small and cute dragon getting seriously hurt, the boys were on the other hand excited to actually get some practice on a real living thing without punishments. The reincarnations knowing Ryuka's true nature and having more complicated feelings about him, Shun nervously laughs with his sister Sue still on him.
Shun: This was...definitely not how I saw today going.
Katia: You said it. What the heck did the dude do for Oka to basically make him the punching bag?
Hugo: Don't know, don't care. As long as I can get some payback against that stupid orange basketball! Hey Teach!!
Oka: Yes?
Hugo: You said "More hits, more points you get!". So what do we get if we have the most points?! A prize!? Extra credit?!
Oka:...............Yes!
Hugo:.........Oh Whatever!! Let's Just Go Beat That Stupid Basketball Up Already!!
Looking back to his little group of followers nearby, they all yell and raise their arms in unison screaming. Yuri butting in to stop them, she get's between him and his followers and confronts Hugo directly.
Yuri: No! I will not permit you to hurt god's vassal!
Hugo: Really?! Again with this!? Your still talking about that "Trickster god" thing he said during the party?! He made it up somehow so he can take advantage and get you to hold him in your chest! Why would a god talk to you?
Yuri: I know it was her! I can imagine God get's lonely and bored sometimes so she plays a little prank every now and then for fun! It had to be her and he must also be special in some way!
Yuri and Hugo arguing on Ryuka, the mostly silent Sue starts looking around the spacious courtyard.
Sue: I don't see Filimos's familiar anywhere.
Shun: Now that you mention it Sue, where's Fei too? I didn't see her this morning.
Pushing past the nearby gathering of kids, Oka smiles and waves as she walks over to the group.
Oka: Hello everyone! We're going to start target practice soon and we need the actual living target. Have any of you seen him?
Katia: Nope! Nobody has from the looks of it. Didn't even come for breakfast.
Sue: Hmm, if I remember right I did see some orange ball go into the forest earlier. I was half awake so I just thought it was the morning sleepiness.
Yuri: He went out in THAT storm?! Oh, I hope he's alright.
Going into the forest and not coming back, Oka knew he must have run away to get away. Partially her fault for not tying him down or doing anything to stop him, she didn't think he was that bold.
Oka: So you think you can weasel away and escape your punishment do you? Well your not escaping me that easily! Yuri, Hugo, Shun, Katia, Come With Me!! We're Forming A Hunting Party!!
Shun: Um, don't you mean "Search party"-?
Oka: YES!!!
--------
--------A.O.'s Cave
Continuing to control their elemental puppets and chasing the increasingly tired Fei around, Silvko is quietly groaning in response to the complete tom foolery happening right next to her.
Silvka: Oh-Oh-Ah-Ah!!
Jumping around and making monkey sounds while smiling, she may have gotten a little to into the role after controlling the three smaller rock apes.
Silvko: Why must the Silvko's sister do that?
Silvka: Come ooon, it's fun! We've never done something like this! It's just...freeing to let go run wild for a change! Do it and you'll get it!
Silvko:......No.
Silvka: Do it!
Silvko: No.
Silvka: Do It!!
Silvko: No.
Silvka: I'll let you take complete control of our body for the day!
Her sister's relentless assault not working and deciding to add that bonus, Silvko's head tilts slightly. A complicated process of two people controlling one singular body, the value of this could only truly be understood by individuals within that situation. Still waving her hands and controlling the fire snake, Silvko looks down silently at the floor for a few moments.
Silvko:.........Ssssss~......Ssssss~...
Making snake noises a similar way to Silvka's ape sounds, she has a big satisfied smile on her face proud of herself. The twins continuing to control and chase the running Fei with Silvka being super exaggerated with the acting, Silvko let's out a quiet "Ssss~" every 3 minutes. Her sister having fun with the expressive nature of apes, Silvko had a boring snake. Not exactly jealous or envious, the snake simply didn't give her much material to work with.
Silvko:.........Give control of the rock apes over to the Silvko.
Silvka: What?! No!! I Made Them So Their Mine!!
Silvko: Mother said it was Silvko's turn on the monkeys.
Silvka: SHE'S NOT EVEN HERE!!!
The twins having a sibling squabble in their cave on who would control what, a hand made entirely of rock grabs and pulls on the entrance of the cave. A ghostly blue glow filling the dark tunnel, the twins both saw the strikingly similar outline and features to Ryuka only barely past the light. Creating an orb of energy swirling around his right hand, the glow generated from his chest moved to it as they saw the thing before them.
Silvka: Your not...
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Fei: Are...they doing something over there?
Y/N: Your guess is as good as mine...
Over at the halfway point cave training site, the fire snake and rock apes have suddenly stomped in place. The two battling over who get's to control what, voices are starting to mix together and their bodies become more unstable. Clearly a controller problem than the puppets, even those mixing arguing voices stopped suddenly. Nothing happening, the creations began to violently spasm and vibrate almost self destructing. The convulsions getting more and more powerful, the creations ominously crumble away back into their most basic components. Without any warning or reason to this, a creeping feeling began to grow in Ryuka with how they came apart. Fei also feeling something wrong deep in her monster instincts, she spoke to the higher up Ryuka concerned.
Fei: What was that?
Y/N: I...don't know. I'll...tell you when I find out myself. Take a lunch brake for now I guess.
Fei: Oh thank god...!
Getting continuously chased for so long, Fei falls down exhausted completely spent of energy. On his higher platform, Ryuka hurries to directly get in touch with A.O. via telepathy.
Hey you two, are you alright? Those elemental summons just crumbled away out of nowhere. Did something happen on your side?...Hello?.........Hello? Silvka? Silvko?
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The reincarnation search party leaving the safety of the Academy barrier and venturing out, each one possesses a rubber rain coat to protect from any thunder. Using her wind and nature magic affinities as an elf, Oka places thin barriers to make sure they don't fly away and to track Ryuka. Quickly jogging to safely bring him back and for his punishment, they make it through the forest at a fast pace. Oka's tracking magic getting more stronger and more stable the closer they go, the curving line soon clears and becomes a straight pointing arrow in Oka's mind.
Oka: Aha, there you are! Come On!! We're Almost There!!
The reincarnations picking up their speed at Oka's signal, Shun looks to the masses of endless trees to his right and sees a giant black figure zoom past behind him. Almost under a spell, Shun stops on the spot looking past the patch of forest he saw it. Noticing him being left behind and halting them, Oka and the rest of them stop in their tracks.
Katia: Shun, what's up? Let's go!
Backtracking down the path they came and turning the corner, Shun's face is awashed in disbelief and awe. Quickly turning back to them, Shun's waves his hand back and forth desperately calling out to them.
Shun: Wait everyone! Look At This!!
Really wanting them to come, Katia, Yuri, and Oka look at each other in confusion and slowly start to walk toward Shun. Left behind just about they were to reach the goal and pummel the orange basketball, Hugo grumpily goes along with them by association.
Hugo: This better be goo-!
Turning the same corner Shun did, they see what drew him so suddenly. Unmoving and stuck in place in the ground, a giant earth dragon statue was in front of them. In it's mid-evolutions with it being able to take down lower enemies but not Arch-Taratects, it still made for an intimidating silhouette. Covered in numerous cracks and the ground beneath it grew and corroded, it was creepily laying down on the ground with one limp attempting to shield his face from something. It's unsettling position and location being so random, Hugo was more confused then creeped out.
Hugo: Why the hell would someone make a random ass dragon statue all the way out here?
Yuri: Perhaps, an old one left behind by mistake?
Trying to figure out where it came from, Katia walks up and attempts to rub her hand across it. However, immediately upon contact, the cracked unstable statue completely gives out and falls apart into a huge cluster of rocks. Breaking it within less than a minute of finding it, Katia slowly turns back to the group a little shaking at what she just did.
Hugo: And you maybe destroyed a national treasure. At least I can brag it wasn't me!
Katia: H-How was I suppose to know it was going to crumble with a finger tap!?
Yuri: Don't worry Katia! Me and the church will vouch for you if anything.-
Katia: Vouch For What?!
Katia possibly facing criminal charges and her panicking over it, Shun walked over to get a better look at the rubble. No signs of age or vines anywhere to indicate such fragility, he turns to point it out to Oka but stopped when he saw her state. Sweating with her eyes glued to the pile of rocks, he could feel something not right.
Shun: Something wrong Miss Oka?
Oka:......That wasn't a statue.
Shun: Not...a statue?
Shun still confused, Oka got closer and bended down just at the border of the grey corroded grass. No energy left in the ground or the creature, it was forcibly taken away fast in the blink of an eye. Not so much killing than an extreme form of mumification or fossilation, it matched all the signs Ryuka once told her about. Realizing this, a looming dread began to envelop her upon the implications.
Oka: It's the Inverse MA Energy he told me about. But...why is it doing outside Elroe...? If it's come this far, has the middle sanctum started to spread to the outside world?!
Shun: Oka?
Oka: I don't know what's going on, but we need to find Ryuka...NOW!!!
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Still in the halfway point training site, Ryuka tries again and again but still doesn't get any response from either Silvka or Silvko. Getting annoyed, he scratches the back of his head groaning.
Ok now this is just getting ridiculous! Can telepathy have bad reception?
The storms cloud above them thundering and raining more harder than ever, it's triple the intensity it was when he first brought Fei. Thinking it was just going to be an above average storm, he didn't think he was bringing Fei in the middle of this. To dangerous for even dragons like them to make it back, Ryuka decides to give up on the idea and starts making his way back. Still near the entrance, he calls out the laying down exhausted Fei.
Y/N: Hey! I can't make contact with either of them and the storm just seems to be coming closer and more fierce by the second! We can't level you up without their creations anyway so we should try to hunker down in the far side of the cave and-
Making it a good distance inside, the next three seconds were a blur to Fei. Blood splattered on the ground and into her face, Fei was in shock unable to move. Happening so fast and suddenly, she thought it was a bad dream. A hand made entirely of rock bursting forth beneath him and holding Ryuka in it's arm, five long sharp claws wrapped around him, and crushed all the bones in the dragon's small body. His mangled body stuck in that clamped cage of claws, Fei snaps out of it and shoots up.
Fei: RYUKA!!!
Y/N: Shino...hara...
His vision getting blurry as she calls out to him, he could barely make her out as a blueish dot. Running at fast as she could, she get's as high as she can stretching her hand out. His hand slowly reaching out to grab hers, the base of the hand breaks from the ground and rockets out the entrance of the cave like a bullet, taking him with it. The speed and sudden break away knocking her down, Fei punches the ground.
Fei: NO, DAMMIT!!!
The reincarnations now running through the forest after finding the dragon statue and the corroded ground, they finally spot the entrance to the cave. Just as they are about to reach it, a giant flying boulder smashes the top of the entrance and goes souring through the sky. Ducking down as multiple fragments fly past them, they looked up to see the weirdly shaped boulder keeps it's altitude and flies across the storm clouds.
Yuri: What was-?
Jumping out the cave entrance and landing down, the reincarnations see the earth wyrm Fei. on all fours. All the way out here and right after what they saw, Shun was the most baffled of all.
Shun: Fei?!
Completely ignoring them and going on a full sprint, she runs into the forest after the flying fist. Most of the reincarnations just standing confused, Oka checks her tracking magic and now sees it suddenly changed directions and pointed to where the boulder flew. Connecting the dots, Oka quickly chases after Fei making everyone else also follow her. Catching up, Oka get's to the right of her.
Oka: Fei, What Happened?! Where's Ryuka?!
Fei: Some Giant Rock Hand Just Crushed And Kidnapped Him!!
Hugo: What?!
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Stuck in the cage unable to get free, Ryuka is stuck heading to the edge of the forest. Trying to revert back and cancel the illusion spell, the fist holding him started to emits periodic small waves similar to the ones in the middle sanctum. Stopping his transformation back, the waves were forcibly keeping him in his current form. Descending down, Ryukais brought to a familiar place but can't quite put his finger on it. The fist going straightening up and turning around, Ryuka's eyes widen when he see the one responsible. A monster he once fought before with Kumoko deep in Elroe, that place was the potential danger of what could happen to the entire world if he died. Floating off the ground with a large blue orb in his chest, the golem of destruction escaped it's confines of Elroe and has made it all the way here to find him.
YOU!!!
The golem moving his fist closer to get a better look at him, Ryuka eyes are drawn to the structure behind him and his heart sinks. The very same cave A.O. was staying in, it has been destroyed and collapsed completely. No signs of escape, he remembers the moment their creations fell apart. Slowly turning back to the golem, Ryuka's worry quickly became a boiling anger. Focusing all his energy around his head, his face lights up like a miniature sun.
WHAT DID YOU DO TO THEM!!!
Firing a colossal dragon's wrath, it bites down and explodes in a enormous explosion. Blasting the golem's head clean off, Ryuka loses breath and cuffs up blood with the fist crushing him harder. Barely able to breath, he watches as random rocks from all over the area start to float and head toward the golem. Coming together, his head is completely reformed as if nothing had happened. Actually releasing Ryuka from his cage, the golem throws him high up in the air. Raising it's other hand, rocks begin to smash and hit the falling dragon from all sides. Sticking to him and putting pressure, he is now trapped in a giant floating orb of rocks at the center. Strangely manipulating it, the golem creates 1 inch sized holes all over the orb to allow air on and casts some small passive long period regeneration on Ryuka. Finished making the preparations, the golem starts to float in a certain direction dragging the orb prison behind him. Trying to keep him alive and bring him somewhere, Ryuka wasn't going to wait around and see what it was going to do with him. However, with the walls being to close and the orb constantly putting pressure on his already broken body, transforming or letting out another dragon's wrath weren't any safe options.
Groaning as his being carried away, rustling could be heard in the forest. The golem turning to his side to check it out, two arrows shoot from the darkness and hit him perfectly in the eyes! Recoiling back and roaring, the spell on them activates making them collect and quickly expand all the nearby air. Acting like miniature bombs, the golem's head explodes with now two gaping empty eye sockets in it. Dropping the orb Ryuka was in to the ground, a giant yellow holy glyph appears under the golem. Activating, a giant wave of holy light rises up from the ground completely covering the golem. The ball of energy in it's chest having a negative reaction to the holy magic, the golem started to become extremely disoriented and confused. Unable to see and his mind fogged, the golem just starts to randomly send his floating fists firing violently into the dark forest.
Rocket like boulder fists destroying the forest, the golem then starts to get assaulted by small but powerful fireballs. Sneaking around the side while it's distracted, Katia and Fei get next to the rock orb that had Ryuka trapped at it's center. Jamming her wand in one of the inch air holes made, Fei has a concerned look on her face about Katia's plan.
Fei: Are we sure that's a good idea-?
Katia: What else are we suppose to do?! Just got some water magic ready!
Channeling magic through her wand and setting it in motion, Katia grabs Fei and falls to the ground as the wand creates a giant fireball blasting a full chunk of it off from within. Fire burning in the nearby grass and area, the uneven weight causes the orb to fall on it's side with a burning Ryuka rolling out.
Y/N: GAAAAH!!!
Fei getting close and creating a glyph above him, she douses him in a huge amount of water putting out the fire. From super hot to super cold, Ryuka is shivering holding his shoulders frozen and out of breath.
Y/N: Why...
Grabbing the small dragon's shoulders, Katia had a look on her face that she wasn't playing around anymore.
Katia: You Better Start Explaining, RIGHT NOW!!! What The Heck Is That Thing And Why Does It Want YOU?!
A bit hesitant, Ryuka looked to the carnage that was happening nearby and knew this was no time to be secretive. Turning to the waiting Katia, he reveals all he knows about the golem.
Y/N: It was a monster from Elroe that me and Wakaba fought in the past. It can't be-it SHOULDN'T be outside Elroe. If it's out here than what happened to the middle sanctum...-?
Katia: Well, How Did You Beat It Last Time?!
Y/N: We...technically didn't beat them. We just sorta "Teleported away"... But There Is A Way!! That orb in it's chest! The only times it showed any kind of pain was when we attacked that!
Fei on the sidelines listening in on the conversation their having, she runs away and relays it to the other in the forest.
Fei: Oka!! Ryuka Says Shoot The Orb In It's Chest!!
Hearing Fei say that, Oka takes aim and readies her bow. Infusing an arrow with wind magic, a large green rotating aura surrounds her. Also preparing Shun and Hugo also charge up their fireballs as best as they could. Releasing the barrage of fireballs and arrow and the blind golem, he manipulates the ground drawing all rocks and and making a protective shield around his chest. Everything smashing into the golem, the new shield stands firm with only minimum damage. Their only easy chance gone, Ryuka slowly turns to the one that screamed it's weakness out for the entire world to hear.
Y/N: Hey Fei, how about you DON'T SCREAM AND TELL THE ENEMY THE PLAN OUT LOUD NEXT TIME!!!
Fei: IT DOESN'T HAVE ANY EARS!!! HOW WAS I SUPPOSE TO KNOW HE WAS LISTENING IN?!?!
The golem moving more rocks to reform it's blasted eyes and magic no longer an option to take it down, Hugo groans and unsheathes his sword. Jumping out of the forest and rushing the still blind monster, Oka out stretches her hand trying to stop him.
Oka: Natsume, Wait!!...Huh?
Noticing a strange event, with it's rocky surface red hot surface cooling down from the rain with all the fire attacks it took, bits and pieces started to break off the golem. Hugo using a sword skill, he jumps and slashes directly at the golems chest. Miraculously, the rock breaks easily and he takes off a good amount of the golem's chest armor. Their coordinated attack barely putting a dent against it, everyone was surprised with even Hugo himself a bit. The others continuing to attack before it can see again, Yuri, who was in the back continuing to use the holy magic to confuse the golem, she goes to Oka for some kind of explanation.
Yuri: Miss Oka, What Just Happened?!
Oka: I...believe it's called Thermal Stress. When a rock experiences super heat and super cold temperatures dozens of times in a row, their structure starts to weaken and eventually crumble...
A desert being the prime example of natural Thermal Stress from both it's daytime and nighttime, it's the reason why deserts are just flat sandy planes. Hearing the good news, Yuri has a spark of hope.
Yuri: That's Good!! We can win!...Right?
Oka: Maybe, but...
Katia and Fei joining in after freeing the still hurt Ryuka, they along with Shun continue to shoot fireballs at varying skill levels as Hugo slashes up close and Yuri from behind. Heating the rock up with the intense rain cooling it back down, the Golem just brings in and replaces faster than they can destroy. Shooting many fireballs, Oka sensed a few of them were running on empty.
Oka: It's not enough...Hasebe!!
Yuri: Y-Yes!!
Oka: I Need You To Do Exactly As I Say-!!
One of the golem's eyes coming back after the failed reincarnations efforts to stop it, it sees a blurry Hugo below him and sends his fist to hit him. Flying to fast and no way to evade, Shun comes in and slashes it with his own sword. The sword glowing and it's endurance increased with his sword skills, Shun throws off it's trajectory barely missing Hugo. Smashing into the forest trees, Hugo looked at Shun more angry at him than the monster that was trying to hit him.
Shun: Fire magic isn't my specialty anyway, like this I can be of more help to everyone!
Hugo: Hrrg! If you weren't such a scaredy cat in magic training that wouldn't be a problem! Don't get in my way!
The golem's vision and mind still clouding him with the holy magic, even with one eye restored Hugo and Shun had good odds in close quarters combat. About to attack again, the yellow holy glyph suddenly disappears and the golem quickly returns to normal! Stopping on the spot, they look back and see the white haired Yuri running away leaving them.
Hugo: What's The Big Idea!!
Shun: Yuri?!
Arrows hitting the golem's shoulders, they increase the moisture in the air crating a temporary fog around it's head. Blinding him for a moment, they look to the shooter and see Oka waving them over fast.
Oka: Shun, Hugo Come!! We're Leaving!!
Shun surprised for the moment at the sudden retreat, he unsheathes his sword running while Hugo stayed behind. No time to ask for the reason, Hugo grumbles before also sheathing his sword and running. Grabbing the two small dragons with Fei on his shoulder and Ryuka in his armpit, Ryuka looks to the back at the collapsed cave and tries to desperately get loose from him.
Y/N: Wait!! They're Still In There!!
Hugo: Don't know who the hell your talking about but they are probably in a lot better position than us at the moment! Now Quit Squirming Or I Won't Hesitate To Drop Your Scaly Ass!!
Freezing up at the threat, Ryuka looked at the cave and could only hope they were alright. The mist disappearing and it's sight restored, the golem spotted the party fleeing and started throwing his floating rocket fists towards them again. Katia and Fei shooting fireballs at them, they only destroyed the front portion with the center mass still intact. Oka running backwards and passing Shun and Hugo as they flee, she drops down skidding on her knees shooting two arrows. Getting stuck in them, they both blow large turbine gusts of wind sending the fast moving fists way off course. Saving them, the golem looms over her and is about to bring down a newly created fist. Casting wind magic on herself to make her as light as a feather, Oka jumps high up into the air dodging it. The fist destroying the ground and the wind magic gently bringing her to the floor, Ryuka looked on in amazement. The improvement from the ape ambush increasing immensely, she was like a different person now.
Continuing to go in the general direction Oka was originally heading, they run out in a big open area. Up above them, Sue was standing on a cliff with the large group of students behind her. Oka eventually catching up with the monster in tow, Sue addresses the gathering with the instructions Yuri told her.
Sue: Alright, There's The Training Golem!! Filimos Said To Attack Till You See The "Big Blue Button On It's Chest"!!
Following her orders, the Academy students all unleash various different kinds of fire and water spells hurling them at the golem. Some fire magic spells in the form of slash attacks and water from below in the form of geysers, they rotated in small squads making the Thermal Stress effect amplified. The Golem raising a fist to send flying at the group, Yuri again unleashes a powerful blast of holy magic from safely behind the group messing with the energy in the golem's chest and mind. The reincarnations exhausted to shoot any fireballs like they did before and to much incoming magic power to slash up clos, they simply stay at a safe distance watching. Wanting to retaliate even with it's mind muddled, the golem tried swinging but would lose the momentum from quick pulling masses of water. Sue and a specially gifted group of water magic users deflating incoming attacks by their water mass pulls, it combined with the constant attacks either send it's fists off course or deforming it through Thermal Stress.
As it's fists got destroyed and the fire/water squads got into the rhythm speeding their rotating, large cracks started to form with a notable blue light peaking from it's chest. Good progress, if this kept up they for sure would hit him at his core eventually. Perhaps knowing they're strategy, all the protective armor on it's chest cracks and falls to the floor at once. Surprising them that it broke off so suddenly but still hopeful, Ryuka's heart sank. Energy from all around started gathering and converging at the center of it's chest, as he turned to directly face the gathering of students. Knowing what's about to happen, he screams out no longer caring about hiding his intelligence.
Y/N: ALL OF YOU GET OUT OF THE WAY!!!
Not understanding the wyrm and confused, the gathering looked on as the golem finished charging. Nothing that could be done, Ryuka heard an unknown voice coming down from above.
???: GET DOWN!!!
Landing in front of the group as the golem fired it's devastating attack on them, the black figure directly strikes the beam with their weapon.
The beam splitting off in several directions, they continue on their course destroying the hills and mountains behind them. The ground scorched at their feet, the figure was wearing all black with a fur around their neck and a mask on. Holding what could only be described as a giant black "Needle" in his hand, the figure jumped from their spot directly in front of the golem to fast to follow. Giant poison magic tentacles coming out of the ground, the liquid quickly wrapped around the golem and held the monster in place. Moving faster than the eye can see, the unknown warrior hits all the structural vital points in the golem. Getting all the way behind it, the figure twirls their needle around striking the golem perfectly in the back. Coming down like a house of dominoes, all the rock fragments gave way only leaving it's floating blue core behind.
About to turn around and strike it, the golem sprouts another fist punching the black figure directly in the spine. Punching them across the forest, the golem immediately starts to collect nearby rocks to regain it's mass. Focusing all the regeneration to his legs and right arm, Ryuka breaks from from Hugo and starts charging the orb before it can replenish. Grabbing a sharp nearby rock as a knife, he jumps up planning to stab it. Focusing the rocks on it's head, it let's out a large roar. The noise drilling into Ryuka's head specifically, he drops the knife falling to the ground. Screaming out in pain hitting himself, the golem quickly drew in rocks from all around. Some students firing magic, the golem moves the fist that punched the figure that saved them as a shield. Blocking the attacks and the reincarnations on his side spent, Hugo decides to do it himself and grabs a yellow stone. Infusing his sword with thunder magic, Hugo charged the floating orb to finish the job. Oka seeing the thunder element Hugo imbued his sword and the storm above, a fear consumed her.
Oka: Natsume You Can't Use-!!
Jumping up and directly stabbing the orb, all the lightning that thrashed the land the past few ours all focused on him. His thunder imbued sword acting as a lightning rod, an immense thunder strike smashed down on both the golem and Hugo. Lighting up the sky, the collective energy being enough to power a city, the thunder ends leaving them both smoking. Frying both of them, Hugo's limp body fell backwards as the orb drops to the floor with a loud thump. The sword stuck inside the orb as it's energy bled out, it started to flicker on and off before finally turning a dark grey.
Finally taking down the golem, the drilling noise that inflicted Ryuka also disappeared. The after math causing him a headache and him rubbing it, not all was over. A scream being heard, Ryuka squinted as he turned his head and saw Katia over the unmoving Hugo. Shun running over to her as she does CPR, he crouches down to her side.
Shun: Katia, What's Wrong?!
Katia: It's Hugo! His Heart Stopped!!
Hugo's clothes burned and charred, Katia put her hands together and started to push on his chest. Not breathing and the electricity burning his insides, Shun knew it was already to late. Unwilling to give up however, he pushed Katia aside and stood over him. Placing his hand on Hugo, Shun's hand lit up with a pure white light different from green healing magic. Draining Shun of most of what little MP he had, the white light goes away as he get's something he wasn't expecting.
{[Taboo Lv. 1] Acquired}
The sudden acquisition and name of the skill being alarming, Shun doesn't have time to think as he falls backwards as the once unbreathing Hugo suddenly springs up again. Uncontrollably breathing and touching his body all over, Hugo looks at his hands trembling. The past few moments coming back to him, his trembling quickly turns into a big smile at the realization of what he just did.
Hugo: I-I Did It!! I Killed The Bastard, HaHaHa!!
Getting on his feet proud, Hugo turns to the large gathering of students that bared witness and points at them yelling.
Hugo: You All Better Remember That I'M The One Who Did The Finishing Blow!! Hugo Baint von Renxandt!! HAHAHAHA!!!
The students frozen for a moment, a few start clapping and cheering. Spreading and growing louder, they all cheer Hugo's name and at the defeat of the unbeatable "Training Golem". Hugo congratulating himself completely oblivious to the help he got to stay alive, Shun simply chuckles nervously at Katia who is still wondering what the heck he just did. Fei climbing up to the same level as the students and Yuri, Hugo's long time friend just looks at him in disbelief.
Yuri: I'm overjoyed he's safe but this is quite a bit much...
Fei: He's a jerk but he DID get the job done. This might bite us in the future but let him have his moment this time.
Hugo: HAHAHAHA!!!
The celebrating mob rightfully enjoying their victory, the wounded Ryuka spots the unknown black figure that helped them slowly walking back after getting punched in the spine. Blocking a blast like that and taking down it's outer skin so easily, Ryuka goes to confront them himself prepared for an even more dangerous enemy. The pain combined with the carelessness to get hit like that, they grumble to themselves under their breath.
???: Stupid zombie rock monster, stupid cheap shot underground punch, stupid idiots for letting their guard down so easily...
Y/N: Hey! Who The Hell Are You?! If Your Some God Like D Or That Dragon Douche Than Go Away!!
Watching the little basketball in front of them, the black figure just scratches the back of their mask wondering what he's going on about. Suddenly remembering their attire and mask, they quickly have an "Oooooh!" moment with their head bobbing up and down.
???: Yeah, I imagine you wouldn't recognize me, ain't gonna blame ya though.
Putting the "Needle" weapon aside and reaching for their mask, they take it off and all the hair that was stuffed into it flows out. Reaching down to their legs, it was a very dried out blond color with most of it's pigment gone. Rough and puffy, their hair still had it's own beautiful charm about it.
Having unnatural pale white skin, Ryuka was just lost. Mentioning not recognizing her, he tried scanning through his memories trying to quickly remember meeting anyone like her. Putting and holding her mask at her hip, he was not ready for what she would say next.
A.O: It's me, A.O.?
..............
..............
..............
Y/N:...I have...many questions.
A.O: Well I can answer them right now. 1, zombie golem monster got the jump on me when "Those" two were arguing about who would ride the monkeys-
Y/N: What-?
A.O:-Don't ask. Used that weird reality warping wave thing from the middle sanctum to turn me back to my original self, and knocked me out in the confusion. 2, yes I can use the humanification skill. 3, no I don't know how long I'm stuck like this. And 4...it really is pathetic having your own daughter and a bunch of regular humans come and save your butt old man. Your suppose to be the enemy of the gods ain't ya?! Grow Some Backbone!!
..............
..............
..............
Y/N:.............OK, so this is now a thing that's actually happening. This is...surprisingly a lot weirder than meeting a 2 headed dragon.
A.O: Eh, I'm down with it. It's actually a new change of pace to finally be back after all these-...oh...oh no...! OH GOD NO!!!
Dropping down to her knees grabbing her head, Ryuka rushed to her side worried.
Y/N: Hey, What's Wrong?!
A.O: All "They're" memories are both coming back to me after all the years I was gone!-Oh, OH I did not need to see that...-Orion, Don't Put Your D In Crazy!!-Why Would You Idiots Let Her Drink!?!?
Screaming at and to herself, selves? Ryuka had a tiny feeling that her outburst was less serious than what she was making it out to be. Turning to the golem's cracked core, Ryuka sees Oka kneeing down examining it. All the others focused on Hugo and his victory, this was probably the only safe chance to talk about it in person before it got covered up.
Y/N: There's some more important things I have to do so if it's only a headache I'm sure you'll be fine!
Knowing how tuff her halves are at least, Ryuka runs towards Oka trusting A.O. can power through her own "Memories"? Seeing her own father running off, she couldn't believe it.
A.O: Leaving his own daughter alone when I'm like THIS-Aaag! This is the worst headache of my life! In what dimension would either of you consider putting pineapple on pizza...? I'm ashamed of MYSELF...
The years of their individual experiences all flashing by, when the original A.O. get's to the most recent memories from a few months ago, she instantly stops in place no longer holding her head. The memories still flooding in, she couldn't get "Those" out of her thoughts. Trying to process and figure it all out, her gaze is slowly drawn to the miracle worker Shun who just miraculously saved Hugo's life.
A.O: Could he have... Heh rotten luck, and just when I power down and lose my copy ability I find Mercy. Oh, fuck me in the arsehole...
Ryuka reaching Oka as she carefully examined the orb, he taps her shoulder making himself known.
Y/N: When did you learn to do all THAT?
Knowing what he's referring to in her expanded arsenal of wind skills and spells she used against the golem, she responds with a little smile.
Oka: After the attack by those Bagragratches when I first found you I've been pushing my wind magic as best as I can. And luckily it came in handy for your old "Acquaintance".
The conversation moving to the golem's dead core, Oka's attitude changes into that of her more serious self.
Oka: It matches the description you briefly gave during your time in Elroe. With it's closely tied connection to Inverse MA Energy and Calamity, I can't imagine it just happened to want you. Any theories on why?
Y/N: Nope! Me and Kumoko fought it 14 years ago but time is all jumbled up in that place. THIS one could either be BEFORE or AFTER that battle for all I know. That thing though, It had intelligence. That barrier stopped large collections of energy like lightning from coming through right? And his chest was a giant ball of energy. He couldn't pass through so he waited until he took A.O. out and when I was vulnerable.
Oka: Yes, and I suspect he also created that storm to act as cover from the public until he got here...
Y/N: If something like him was able to reach the surface, than that also means the middle sanctum and that graveyard has too. If something that big has happened...
Oka: Powerful figures from all over the world will go there for various reasons soon. To exploit, to stop it's spread, out of curiosity, some may be moving there right now as we speak.
Y/N: Including Kumoko?
Hearing that name, Oka had an idea where this was going.
Y/N: If I was her and went to that place seeing all the dangerous reality manipulation inside it 14 years ago, I know I wouldn't just completely ignore it and check it out for myself. This might be my biggest chance to actually find Kumoko early. I'm going with or without your approval. I'll take all the punishment later but I have to go no matter what! I'm going back to Elroe!
The last journal entry Kumoko left for him giving him a bad feeling, he wanted to find her just to see her again and to figure out what the heck she was doing. Oka having a stern expression with Ryuka waiting for a response, she silently opens her menu and checks his status. Still the same date of his future death in 3 months time inside Elroe, nothing notable has changed, for good or bad. The Calamity immune to turning to stone, he was the most physically capable to access the situation. Going with or without her orders, Oka felt uneasy of him going to the place he was to someday die but knew he was safe this time. Closing her eyes, Ryuka waited patiently for her answer.
Oka:...Only check it's spread, DON'T approach it, and bring Wakaba back if you do encounter her...
Oka's approval catching him off guard, Ryuka still wasn't going to say no to it.
Y/N: Thanks!
Oka: Not like I could stop you even If I wanted too...
Knowing the mad rush that was probably already heading to Elroe, Ryuka Immediately went to the now whole A.O. in preparation for leaving. Oka looking back at the destroyed field near the Academy and the inevitable questions kingdom officials would ask, she could see the next few painful days in front of her.
Oka: *Sigh*, This is going to be so much paperwork...