CLANG CLANG SLASH

The sound of metal clashing reverberated throughout the area over and over again with every impact of Ryuuko’s blade to the giant monster’s shield. The fight was on a level that could not be describe by mere words, with every blow from one another sending shockwaves throughout the land, as if just the contact between the two was throwing the entire world off balance.

FWOOSH

The great spear of white flame flew towards the girl at incredible speed. There was so much power from its charge yet there was also a sense of delicate to its lumbering movements. But with that delicacy came an even more destructive force; where the spear flew even the air itself was lit aflame and scorched all that it grazed by.

BOOM

A fierce sound of explosive force came from the tip of its spear as it shot out an aftereffect from its powerful lunge, flying far to the endless skies above and enveloped everything in its path a blaze of holy fire. However the intense attack was a miss as the young girl, the massive blade clutched in her right hand, reappeared completely unfazed and brought down her howling weapon. Slicing through the air like a hot blade through butter, its chainsaw edge split apart even the molecules that stood in its way.

SHYAAA

The creature gave an ear-piercing screech as it was thrown back, its needle-like legs tore through the ground in defiance of the momentum, its mighty shield having blocked the staggering strike. Immediately gaining control and letting out a blood-curdling roar, it stood again with its two weapons in hand, readying for another round.

Ryuuko’s feet finally touched the ground, the weapon in her hand letting out an expulsion not unlike that of a rocket’s, and gently set her down. The edge of her blade throbbed with power, beating in accordance to the rhythm of her pounding heart.

BABUMP BABUMP BABUMP

Each pulse brought about another pump of great energy throughout her small body as she firmly gripped the handle of her weapon and stared intensely into the single bloodied eye of her opponent.

“Huff...huff...” She breathed, feeling the hotness of her breath blowing through her mouth and through the veins that stitched across her lips. Her entire body felt like it was on fire, every movement sending a wave of heat throughout her figure yet there was also unyielding strength. The voices that cried out to her in encouragement was loud yet not so loud that it would cloud her thoughts. Standing there, she felt both the weight and the support of the entire world on her back, both greatly pushing her down and carefully lifting her up.

With a small grunt, she once again arduously lifted her weapon. Hearing the ignition of her blade’s engine, its cover clicking open, and releasing another powerful thrust throwing her back into the air, she charged towards her thundering enemy; the roar of her weapon and her pounding heart easily drowning it all out.

-

As the earth-shattering conflict raged on, the remaining members of the A.R.C. watched in both awe and with dread. The scene was unbelievable; to watch the young member of their club facing off against the towering creature with utmost effort and ease brought a bout of astonishment to all of them.

“A-amazing! H-h-holy crap! I can’t believe this!” Juntaro exclaimed as he pulled out every data he could from his system, all of them were nearly being overloaded as he desperately tried to analyzed the far-off situation. “Ryuuko’s power is off the charts! Every reading I’m getting from her...that arm of her’s...its...it’s the virus?! How?! Are you telling me it somehow popped out and manifested itself into her right arm?!”

“Hmm...is that possible? Incredible...” Kenjirou grunted. He did not understand what was going on, as did the rest of the boys. The off the scale battle that he could not even hope to comprehend, he felt a strange sense of worry as he watched with bated breath.

Unlike earlier Ryuuko was no doubt in control of herself, evident by her more coordinated movements. Her mind was intact and she did not look to be in pain as before when she had gone berserk. Kenjirou even recognized some of the moves and techniques she was using; it was the same as those of Takuya’s.

“Hideyoshi, what do you make of this?” The president asked, despite his clubmate’s focused eyes on the scene in the distance.

“Huh?” Takuya turned his eyes to the club president when he felt a vibration from his phone and read the repeated words on his lips. “About what?”

“How long was it that you taught her to fight? Only 2 days ago?” Kenjirou asked curiously.

“Yeah. We didn’t have much time, so we only cover the basics but Takatora...she’s amazing. Although she’s still inexperience, she’s using everything she learnt from then, all while swinging that huge weapon in her right arm with near pin-point precision. Heh, as I thought, she really does have talent.” Takuya snickered, feeling a sense of pride while watching his student in action. “However..., I do not think it will be enough. Not against that monster.”

“I thought you would say that. You see it, don’t you?”

“...Yeah, easily. And it worries me. You too, Prez?”

“Hmph...yes. And I don’t like this one bit.” Kenjirou grunted, as he struggled again to move but his huge body was still immobilized. Letting out a sigh, he cursed underneath his heavy breath.

“Alright guys, how about including me into this conversation too? What are you seeing? What are you worried about? Look at Ryuuko go! She’s kicking major ass out there, so why the long faces? Come on, you bastards. How about some support or maybe even a cheer for our girl out there?”

“Haa...as expected of you, senpai. You really don’t know crap about anything. Seeing you spew such idiotic yet confident nonsense; I don’t know whether I should laugh or feel envious of your ignorance.”

“Oh, shut up Takuya. We’re on Ryuuko’s side, so of course we’re gonna have to believe in her. Well then, Mister Perfection, since you are such the expert what is your take on all this? Come on wise guy, tell me what you think is going to happen. Ryuuko will be to be fine, yeah? She’s definitely going to win, right?” Juntaro scoffed, a bit of annoyance in his voice.

“Don’t call me that, senpai. But...hmm...if I could make a prediction, I would unfortunately have to say no. However, I don’t think she would lose either.”

“Oh? Whatever do you mean?” Kenjirou raised his eyebrows to his friend’s words.

“Takatora, her control over that weapon is...fascinating. From just looking at it, I could tell it weighs a monstrous amount. Yet there she is, flying and moving around like it’s nothing. Her control over her new body, her movements, and her power really are all outstanding. Compared to that giant monster, she is easily weaving her way in and out. She’s attacking and dodging its assaults with such relative ease. She is holding out very well, but at the same time I could still see her inexperience in combat. She is doing plenty to put into practice what I taught her, but that’s just it. There isn’t any deviation so her moves are predictable and easily exploitable by those with more experience, which brings us to our problem.” Takuya explained as he carefully analyzed the battle. Although they were safely away, he could still feel the tremendous clash of force between the two that blew violently towards them.

“That monster...it was supposed to be mindless or something now that it “lost herself” as we were told. However, every move from it still seemed to be perfectly calculated. Its enormous size compared to Takatora gives her an advantage, yes; but it is able to move so flawlessly despite its massive body. It is able to attack and defend simultaneously, as well as it seems to be focusing the most on counterattacking. Almost instinctively, might I add, leaving little to no openings. Its combat prowess is astonishing, not something that come from just talent instead from hard training and long years of experience, at least that is what leads me to believe. More than just a monster, what was it when it was a still human? A master martial artist? A soldier?“

“While Takatora has the speed and skills, this thing is countering with defense and experience. In other words, the entire fight is equivalent to that of a speeding hornet buzzing around a lumbering yet fully armored knight. It’s very evenly matched, with the only deciding factor being a lapse of judgement or a single mistake which, if that was the case, then I’m afraid Takatora might be in big trouble.” Takuya said as his eyes focused on the darting body of Ryuuko. Even in the distance, he was able to see the increasing burden of the battle on her. It was no doubt that, despite her current form, she was using a mammoth amount of energy, all while the colossal monster wasn’t showing any signs of weakening. Instead, it looked almost as if it was getting strong with every blow. It really is only a matter of time before it is to suppress the young girl, whose breathing was getting heavy with each passing moment.

“Just what the hell is that thing?” Takuya asked grimly, baffled at the true identity of the creature. He did not understand how it was possible for such a monster to be so adapt even if it did used to be “human”.

“Are you amazed; child trapped in silence? I expected you to be, heh heh heh.” Came a mocking figure that floating in front of the paralyzed boys. On their face, still cracked and broken revealing a void of darkness from the gapping holes, was a big smirk as it looked upon them with condescendence. “It is mesmerizing, isn’t it? Armadat’s splendor. Yes, after all, my dear friend was the best of the best even amongst the rest of us, for she was one who kept in her heart an unbreakable sense of justice and love for the world.”

The three boys glared at the smirking silver haired being, the faces of the group all scrunched in contempt as their eyes turned towards them.

“Just what the hell is “she”? What the hell are you?” Juntaro exclaimed. “How the heck is it possible some monster like that is able to fight so well?! Didn’t you say it was nothing more than a shell?!”

“Hmmhmm...do you really want to know, child trapped in noncorporeal? The curiosity about “us”, it is no doubt eating at you, isn’t it?”

“Hmph...speaking in riddles again. Don’t you get tired of such a charade?” Kenjirou scoffed, his piercing gaze fixed on the floating being who was coyly tempting them.

“I could say the same for both of us, “President”. Did you think you can hide “it” from me?”

“...I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Kenjirou answered, his tone of voice placid, yet there was much anger that he was trying to keep to himself and under control.

“I expected you not too. All three of you. My, my, such horrid secrets. I wonder how much of your so-called comradery is based on the fact that all of you have something to hide.” Alma said, their voice dripping with malice as they placed a broken finger on their lips. “But do not worry, for I too am very good at keeping secrets as well.”

“You motherfuc-“

“Senpai! Don’t let them get to you!” Takuya immediately stepped in. But despite his attempt to mediate, he too was filled with anger toward the silver haired being that stared at them with an empty-eye, devoid of light and life, while giggling and playing with the braid of their hair. “Tch...so are you going to give us an explanation? Or are you just going to continue to relish in on our helplessness and ignorance?”

“Hmm...yes, perhaps you do deserve some information. After all, you have done quite well for worms, and I believe you are due for a reward.” Alma snickered. “Armadat...no, Sister Amia. She is the same as me. We were...;「Children of God」.”

“Huh? 「Children of God」? What do you mean?” Juntaro asked in surprised.

“In your language, it should translate to “Servants of God” or more accurately, “God’s Children”. Yes...that was the name given to us.” A look of disgust appeared on Alma’s face as they spoke, almost as if the words they were spitting out were something foul that was in their mouth.

“You mean to say that you, and that “thing” over there; you were holy men? Like some sort of priest?” Kenjirou inquired, his eyes narrowing as he stared into the void that is Alma’s eye.

“Hmm...perhaps that is the best your feeble minds could comprehend. Although, not exactly the kind that you might think. Ah...how terribly nostalgic.” Alma giggled mischievously. “We were taken because we possessed something...”different”, from all the others. We were supposed to be “pure”. And with that “purity”, we were given a duty. Yet, we were nothing more than tools to be used. Weapons...”

Alma was quiet for a moment, as if reminiscing.

“Yes...weapons for the “Almighty”. Our purpose was to “save the world”, as it was continuously foretold to us. Save the world...”

Although their face was an emotionless look, a strange feeling of shuddering could be felt in the air, as if feelings of anger was being emitted from their broken body and was suffocating the area around them.

“My sister...oh, my dear sisters. They did not deserve any of this. For their devoted loyalty and servitude, they were repaid with betrayal. Not just them, but the whole of those who now reside within “Eden”. Even now, they are laughing. Mocking us, as we are hopelessly enslaved to their biddings, torturing all of us. Stripped of ourselves and forced to be such...abominations. False god, oh false god...by the unyielding rage in my broken heart, you shall pay. Mark my word.” Alma muttered underneath their breath as their eye, burning with hatred, was directed into the heavens above as if speaking to someone beyond.

The three boys watched in silence, unable to find any replies to all this. The words that came from Alma’s mouth were confusing, even as they spoke, and the boys did not understand. They could only stare at the floating figure who let out a long weary sigh, almost as if they too knew that their words held no meaning to the ones who stood frozen in place.

“Uhh...umm...so, “God” is real? Or are we talking about a different “God” god?” Juntaro finally uttered, scratching his head nervously as he asked through his live chat.

“Holy crap, senpai. You did not just...!!”

“What?! I...from what little memories I had, my family were supposingly Buddhist. I mean...I’m not really...but...err...”

Alma looked back at him, quiet for a moment, before suddenly bursting out in a strange cackle of amusement.

“HA HA HA. Indeed, child trapped in noncorporeal, what a questions to ask.” Alma said as they suddenly stared down at their hand. Pieces of it fell to the ground and vanished without a trace, like shattered glass, leaving behind a hollow remain of a glittering void. “「Is God real? 」How nostalgic... Such innocent words they were...spoken by those who were tossed away. To answer your question, sweet child of sin...;”

“No, “God” is not real.” Alma replied with a malevolent tone of voice as their mouths curved to a wicked grin.

-

Her giant blade flashing, Ryuuko blasted through the air as she narrowly dodged another attack from the creature’s destructive spear, the flames from the weapon slightly singeing her. Immediately taking the chance, she moved in close and violently spun her blade, bringing it down with a momentous force as the edge of her weapon hummed while tearing into her target.

But as if anticipating her movements, Armadat swiftly avoided the devastating attack. Just barely, with the force of the slash ripping the outermost part of its armored body and leaving a great mark of devastation on the ground of its connection. The shield on the monster’s left arm was thrown out in rapid succession to where Ryuuko was, a strong gust of power to collide with the young girl who was momentarily exposed.

FHWOOOM

The thrusters on Ryuuko’s weapon expelled out in full force as it dragged her away from the coming direction of the attack, pulled her from her dangerous positioning and saving her life at the last moment. Flying back a distances away, Ryuuko’s felt the earth beneath her feet again as she gasped for air, still shaken from the harrowing experience. The weapon in her hand was beating profusely even as she sunk it to the ground while she tried to catch her breath.

“Something...something is not right...!” She muttered to herself as she once again stared with intensity at her target, stooding tall and strong still while she was starting to feel the strain on her body. It did not hurt, yet it felt like the energy that she had before was starting to fade. The fire of wrath was still burning strong within her, yet her body felt as if it was lagging behind in response. Even the voices that before murmured to her, were suddenly becoming muffled.

“What...what is this?” She exclaimed as her redden right eye widen and revealed to her a distressing sight. The thread of emotion and life energy that was being spun and pulled upwards was being redirected. It was now converging into a single location, to where Armadat stood. A powerful aura was being emitted from its immense figure, growing stronger and stronger by the moment. She looked down and saw the same flow from the numerous destroyed corpses that laid before her. All of them were also being dragged off, the location it was drawn to was at the monster’s massive shield.

“Its taking in the life force of this world!? No way!” She gasped, nearly cursing at herself for her late realization of what had been happening. It all made sense to her now. The sense of foreboding that ate at her when she fought, that no matter how much and how hard she launched her assaults, it had not even a slightest effect on the colossal monster.

But it was not only that. There was no doubt in her mind anymore that it was biding its time. While it was getting stronger by the moment, she could feel herself weakening. She had been able to push back against it during their fight but it would only be a matter of time before she was to be overwhelmed if this was to continue.

“No...I can’t...I don’t stand a chance if this is to keep up.” She huffed, gritting her teeth a she struggled to contemplate a plan yet nothing came to mind. Her entire body was starting to shiver and shudder, as she closely grasped the handle of her weapon with great strength.

However, she did not give up. As grim as her situation was, she knew that there had to be a way. That losing is not an option and, clinging on to her decree, she must save her. Yet, in the distance where Armadat stood, while it was told to her that the “human” her had already been devoured and that it is nothing more than a beast that moves almost autonomously, Ryuuko felt uneased. The creature, its appearance was as if it was cruelly mocking at her. Laughing at her struggles, as if it also knew the situation at hand perfectly.

Quickly shaking herself out of such pointless thoughts, Ryuuko wrenched her weapon from the crushed grounds and steeled herself.

“Not yet. NOT YET!” She screamed as she once again charged forward. However, as she ran through the fields something was different. Armadat, instead of returning her advances, it took a different stance and held its enormous spear upward, pointing it to the skies above.

Her senses warning her of danger, Ryuuko immediately halted her charge and leapt back. The thrusters from her weapon sent her flying as she warily kept away. She felt the hair on the back of her neck standing up, as something dangerous was coming.

Letting out a great cry, a mix of a ghastly howl and a blood-chilling roar, the entire world suddenly shook as if a massive earthquake was taking place.

DOOM DOOM DOOM

Terrible thundering sounds erupted from beneath as numerous huge pillars of silvery-white sprouted from the shaking grounds, their appearance liken to that of roots of the great silvery tree that stood from behind. From the pillars then came horrid noises of bubbling and ripping. Emerging out were hands and bodies of familiar revolting white, the corpse-like creatures that from before in the ruined city.

Ryuuko watched in horror and disgust the almost instantaneously appearance of the creatures, coming from the towering pillars and hearing the appalling tortured groans and blood-shrieking moans. However, it was not only from those that they appeared. From the great tree behind also emerged monsters, all tearing to break free. The appearance of the ones that came from the tree were of similar yet different variations as they sprouted wings from their back and took to the skies.

“Uwaaah...” Ryuuko found herself gasping as her eyes washed over the literal armies of festering white and flickering of countless beads of red. There were so many, as they all immediately locked their sights to her and gave out a simultaneous ear-piercing shriek that swept across the land like a great wave.

Armadat, who stood overshadowing the great horde, a strange sound came from it reminiscent of a mocking chuckle, as it directed its spear to Ryuuko location and signaled a charge. The creatures all screamed out and immediately rushed towards the girl, their fangs bared and their claws protruding, in a wild frenzy of attack.

“Ugh...!” Ryuuko grunted, as she tightly bit her lips. Clutching her weapon, she felt the reemergent surge of power that flowed from her and dove herself down towards the assailing mass. Letting out a great cry of might, she mercilessly swung her blade at the assaulting army.

SLASH

The cruel sound of skin and bones being cut apart as she spun her weapon echoed in her ears. With each swing, dozens of the monsters were decapitated and split apart, their blood and guts bursting out to the skies and splattered down like a torrent of red rain. Each kill was followed by the ghastly screeches of pain and rage. The monsters were no match for her, they were all no more than paper tigers to her power, as she sliced them up by the hundreds. Yet, no matter how many she defeated, more took their place as they came at her with complete reckless abandonment.

SLASH SLASH SLASH

There was too many. Coming at her from all sides, she felt the snipping of their dagger like fangs and the clawing of their razor talons at the edge of her skin. Unable to even stop to breathe, Ryuuko continuously fought and defended herself as the legions leapt at her from the front, back, and even from the skies. There was no where for her to go as she could only desperately struggle without end. With every swing of her weapon; she felt herself growing weaker and weaker.

The thruster on her weapon roared out, setting ablaze those attempting to catch her as she took back to the skies and hacked apart those that stood in her way above. The appearance of the winged creatures that fell as she tore them from the skies was liken to that of a gruesome painting; like angels falling from the heavens to the deep crimson stained grounds.

Drenched in a layer of blood that soaked her entire body, Ryuuko wheezed and gasped for air as she attempt to make a retreat, all while fending off many stragglers that pursued her endlessly. However, it was this moment of lapse in concentration that finally got to her. As she fought the hordes, she was not able to focus on her real target and by the time she had noticed, it was too late. Armadat who used the army of lesser monsters as a cover appeared from almost thin air and launched its shield towards the befuddled girl in a stunning blow.

WHAM

“KYAAAH!” Ryuuko screamed as she was thrown back by the immense strike. The blade in her hand, she was able to block herself at the split second, but the force of the impact launched her away. Dazed and huffing, she was unable to control the trajectory of her flight and the thrusters that were fighting to keep her airborne spluttered, as she spun wildly about before brutally smashing into the ground below.

BOOM

“Ugh...ack...*cough*...” Coughing heavily from the dust that covered her, she carefully got up from the massive crater that was created from her point of impact. Her body was in terrible pain as she violently shook herself of the blood that clung to her.

“Takatora!!” Came to her a gruff voice as she turned her head to the figures of the three boys who stood away from her.

“President! Senpai! Hideyoshi...ugh!” She exclaimed, clutching her chest in pain.

“Ryuuko! Dammit!”

“How are we still unable to move! Release us already, you bastard! Release us NOW!!” Takuya demanded as he gave a futile attempt to tear himself from the binds that held him.

Ryuuko was still in a terrible daze, her head spinning from the attack. Everything was hurting so badly, and the ringing in her ears was deafening as she struggled to her feet, only to fall down again while crutching onto her weapon for support.

“Takatora, that’s enough! This is too much, even for you! You have to get away!” The president roared at her.

“But...but...I can’t! There’s no...way. There’s no way I could leave you all here!!” She rebutted at the top of her lungs, tears flooding her eyes as she shy away to her clubmates.

Covered from head to toe in great wounds and dripping in blood, her remaining bits of clothing nearly torn apart and with her current almost inhuman appearance, a deep feeling of dread came unto her as she thought about the stares from those she desperately wanted to be together with. Ryuuko, she had accepted herself and her role. She understood what she was, but even so, deep down there was still the lingering fear. The fear that she wanted so bad to rid of, yet unable to as she desperately clung to her weapon and wept, tearfully looking away from the boys.

She did not want them to see her, not like this.

“A monster. Will they look at me and see a monster?” The terrifying thought flooded her mind and was drowning her collapsing body with fear.

“Man, Ryuuko you’re freakin’ awesome! I can’t believe you! Holy crap!! And that weapon! So cool! I must analyze it for research purposes!” Suddenly came heavily excited sound of applause.

“Eh?” She looked up in surprise.

“You really are amazing, Takatora. We’ve been watching you fight and it was breathtaking. I was right that you had talent and I’m very proud of you. Of course, there are still ways to go, but color me impress.” Came another encouraging laugh, beaming with pride.

“Wha-?”

“Hmmhmm...you got a compliment from Hideyoshi. That’s no small feat. Wonderful work, Takatora.” Came a gruff chuckle as she turned to the proud faces of the three boys. Each of them were sporting such huge smiles that was nearly as radiant as the brilliant skies. Through their eyes, Ryuuko saw a sense of deep trust and admiration that left her speechless.

“None of them...they...they...”

Ryuuko suddenly burst out in tears. A sense of overwhelming joy as she saw the shocked look of her clubmates to her crying.

“Whoa! T-Takatora, are you okay?!”

“Ryuuko! Don’t cry!!”

“Urk...was it something I said?”

“Uwwaaahh...*sniff* Every...Everyone...!” She sobbed loudly.

Carefully picking herself up, she went over to them, the giant weapon still in her hand.

“Ryuuko, everything is going to be okay. Please don’t cry.” Juntaro fumbled from his screen as he tried to reassure her.

“*Sniff*...Yes. However...”

“A marvelous display indeed, Takatora Ryuuko. Well done. Very well done.” Came a congratulating yet mocking tone of voice as she turned her head to the floating remains of the silver haired being. A frightening grin was spread across their cheeks, nearly covering their entire face.

“Alma...”

“Wonderful. Simply wonderful. You truly are my dear, dear, Eve. That weapon, that arm, your complete control over your sins. I had expected and hope for this, and you have fulfilled my every waking desires. Ah...so beautiful. So radiant you are, Takatora Ryuuko.” Alma exclaimed as they moved their hand across their crumbling body, shaking and trembling wildly, completely ecstatic as it looked as if they were struggling to keep themselves together. “A sight to behold, the way you fought was like a dance in the air. Words alone could not express how I feel towards you right now. Although, it would seem that Armadat had proved quite a challenge. Heh heh heh, as I have expected from my dear friend. Sadly, that isn’t good for you, is it?”

Ryuuko bit her lips as she heard their words. Although she was still gripping her weapon, she could feel herself getting weaker as the injuries on her body, although slowly healing, still stung. But more than that, the feeling that she might not be able to win ate at her immensely.

“What’s wrong, my dear Eve?”

Without answering, she turned her redden right eye of hers to their direction. Glaring at the silver haired being, she widen her eyes in a hope to reveal who they truly were. However, there was no change in appearance. She saw nothing but instead an increasingly wide smirk of smugness.

“Oh ho? Trying to divulge secrets from me? My, my, how embarrassing and how naughty of you, Takatora Ryuuko. Fortunately, I have nothing to hide, heh heh heh.” Alma giggled madly. “However, why don’t you take a look at them instead?”

“Huh?” Ryuuko uttered as she looked over to the bodies of the three boys. Like an x-ray, she was able to see through them in a skeletal form. It was the same image that she had seen a while back, when she first met the president and Hideyoshi. The imagery of nightmare that had haunted her before, however this time she was able to stand her ground. Although it was surprising, it was no longer frightening. Instead, it was something else that caught her attention.

“What...what is that?!” She gasped as she noticed the balls of glowing light that was residing within her clubmates. Pulsating ever so slightly, it was a massive swerve of energy that was spreading itself throughout their bodies. “President! Everyone, what is that inside of you?!”

“Huh? What do you...ah.” The president responded as he caught what she meant. “It was given to us by them, when we tried to save you. They said it was...”

“A piece of knowledge. Of this broken, forsaken world. Does it look familiar, Takatora Ryuuko?” Answered the mocking voice as they finished the sentence for the giant man.

“No! That’s not right! It looks similar but I could see it! Its spreading throughout their bodies and its dangerous!”

“What?!”

“Huh?!”

The three boys gave a look of shock, and then anger as they turned their eyes back to the mysterious being.

“YOU LIED TO US AGAIN?!” Takuya screamed.

“MOTHERFU-“

“HA HA HA!! Aw, looks like I’ve been found out. Nicely done, Takatora Ryuuko.” Alma let a boisterous laugh.

“You-! Why?! Why would you do something like this?!” Ryuuko screamed in rage.

“Oh calm yourself, Takatora Ryuuko. What I had provided to them was indeed a seed from the fruit of knowledge. It is different, yes, from the one I fed you as you were “pure” and “innocent”. For the children of sin, it was nothing more than a way to link to you when you lost yourself. As well as...” A devious smile spread across their face. “A final trump card. I’m sure you could tell, the power it contains residing within those boys.”

Ryuuko gritted her teeth, as she looked over to the worried and angry face of the boys.

“Yes, a single one should have the power to devastate the surrounding area when unleashed. But a combination of all three? Why, that would be enough to obliterate even the Garden of Mercy itself. Exciting isn’t it?”

“You god damn piece of crap! You really are a bastard! SCREW YOU!” Takuya exclaimed.

“Why? How could you do this to us? What is wrong with you?!” Kenjirou growled. “What kind of monster are you?!”

“Get this out of our body right now you %&$&@#& asshole!!” Juntaro demanded, his words cutting off from the screen due to his anger.

“I’m afraid that is not possible. The seed has already attached itself to your sins, and has already begun to take root. Aw, how unfortunate that you are nothing more than children of sin. Destined to live and die as impurity. How sad. How pathetic. But, even so, let it comfort you to know that your sacrifices will not be in vain. After all, even mere worms have their uses as they provide themselves to the grounds of the Garden.”

Alma then turned to Ryuuko with a satisfied look.

“Fear not, Takatora Ryuuko. I had thoroughly planned for all necessary scenarios. You will not be harmed if it is to be denoted, because the piece you have devoured are of a greater wavelength. You do not need to fear against Armadat, for once the Garden of Mercy is destroyed even she will be nothing before you. Everything will be alright.”

“As I thought, I really can’t forgive you.”

“Hmm?”

Ryuuko looked up and stared into the single eye of the mysterious being. What was expected to be anger from her, was instead a look of sadness.

“I really...had hoped to be able to trust you. I had hoped that...the painful cries I heard from you were the still human side that remained. But...why? You really are a monster, no different from your friend currently.” Ryuuko voice cracked as she spoke. She fought herself back the tears, as the thought of crying for such a wretched being was absolutely revolting. But even so, deep down, she felt a strange sympathy towards them as she questioned what could have driven this person to such cruelty.

Anger? Hatred? Revenge?

Perhaps, yet if that was so why were the cries that were hidden so deep none of such? She did not understand, no matter how hard she tried. Alma who stared at her, the hollow smirk that was on their face slowly faded away to a look of emotionless.

“My dear Eve...why do you look at me with such eyes? Not of rage or fury, yet such beautiful eyes of mercy.” Alma whispered.

“I do not know.” Ryuuko answered somberly as she shook her head. “I...I’m not going to leave them. The three of them are my friends and clubmates, and I will not let them be sacrificed no matter what. However, I also made a promise that I would save your friend.”

“As I said before...foolish. You cannot defeat Armadat alone, who has complete control over the Garden of Mercy. Your kindness is blessed, yet misplaced, Takatora Ryuuko.”

“I know. But even so...”

“Takatora...”

“Ryuuko...”

The three boys looked at her with sadness, as they could see the conflicting emotions within the girl yet were helpless to provide a hand to her.

“Hmph...however, that is not to say there is no hope. Takatora Ryuuko, my dear Eve...that is after all what you are; a hope.” Alma sudden gave a sigh and slightly chuckled.

“Huh?”

“You are my...no...our hope. The destroyer. The one who shall free us all from our shackles. Our desired redemption.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Takatora Ryuuko, you’ve done it before. You might not have been conscious during that time but you’ve indeed done it. However, it was only a crude showing for the children of sin, for their sins were manifested without substance. Right now it is the same, for there is no way for them to be purified. For those who are of sin, shall stay sinned until they could receive salvation.” Alma said, their voice lacking any emotion.

“The seed I have provided for these boys, are just that. A seed. A seed of possibility. A seed of destruction, yet also of deliverance. Even as it spreads through their sin-filled body, it is still a seed. And for this seed, if it is to be exposed to the light of hope, I wonder...how will it grow? How will it manifest to those held in the clutches of impurity?” Alma asked as they stared into Ryuuko’s eyes. A slight smile was spread across their face, different from their usual mocking appearance. A look that was almost, human.

“Eve is; the destroyer. The scourge that brought down “Paradise”. The “woman of the end” who brought about the Wrath of the “Almighty”. However, Eve; was also the one who destroyed the binding of man, the thread that wrapped tightly around his neck like a noose. It was Eve that tore apart the illusion of “Paradise”, bringing about the path to real “Eden”. A pure and innocent who gave “hope” to her tainted children; that one day they too shall also become “pure” and “innocent”. Eve...; was the “woman of the end”, that brought forth the true beginning; mankind’s genesis.”

“I ask of you, Takatora Ryuuko,” Alma said as they turned towards Ryuuko. There was no emotion in their face, yet even so, a feel of benevolence never seen before was radiating from them. Carefully, they reached out their broken, crumbling hand.

“Are you Eve?”

She was quiet. She did not know how to answer. Yet, as she looked into the eye of this person, their silver hair that blew with the unnatural flow of wind, their body shining a heavenly light despite being utterly in tatters, she could hear the voices that called to her. The billions of muffled voices that tried to comfort her, reminding her and supporting her up on this baron land of hellscape.

BABUMP

The heartbeats came again. The feelingS that continuously swirled within her in synchronization, every pulse moving with her own. As she heard it, her body and soul felt calm.

“Yes...I am Takatora Ryuuko. And I am Eve.” The words that came out of her lips moved like a soft breeze. Her outstretched right arm, blackened with the taint of sin, released her weapon and moved towards the mysterious being’s fingers and gently touched.

There was no flash. There was no strange effects or sounds. As if nothing happened. Yet, from the tip of her sin-filled right arm, she could feel it.

A warmth. So small and so weak, barely noticeable yet it was there on her fingertips and it was spreading through her arm, to the rest of her body.

“Now then, will you bring to us true salvation, my dear Eve?”

Ryuuko nodded her head quietly in compliance as she turned back to the paralyzed bodies of the boys.

“Takatora...” The president said, unsure what to make of the previous scene. He did not understand, as he could only look into the eyes of the young girl, now with a gentle smile in her face. He was not the only one, as the other two were also confused. They did not speak, even as they wanted to, but instead all stared into her two-colored eyes.

The right redden colored eye, that stared at them intensely and saw through the world for what it truly was.

The left hazel colored eye, that stared at them tenderly and saw the world through the illusion of innocence.

But as they looked at each other, a familiar sound of malicious growls came upon them. Turning to the sounds, they witnessed the sight of the army of monsters that had finally made their way to where they were. Drooling and snarling, they circled and moved like predators that mercilessly toyed with and stalked their prey.

And behind them, eclipsing the area with it imposing figure, was the appearance of the Savior of Mercy. There was no hint of humanity left in the creature’s body, no hint of cognizance nor hint of benevolence nor mercy as it stood before all the terrible smaller monsters that snarled and sharpened their fangs and claws in anticipation for their hunt. Its blazing halo burned brightly yet emitting from its holy flames was only a suffocating menace.

“Hmph...looks like we’re out of time. Takatora Ryuuko, it is your decision. I’m sure you have already decided what to do, and I’m sure your choices in the end will prove to be quite entertaining, to say the least.” Alma giggled as they twirled their silvery braid.

“Yes.” Ryuuko answered, with utmost confidence in her voice. She turned to the boys again and looked them in the eyes as she spoke.

“Everyone, please, I want to save her, that girl who has become a monster in our eyes. I want to save this world, a hellscape hidden by an illusion. But, I understand now I can’t do any of this alone. I’m not sure if you will understand me, but I need your help once again. Will you all trust me? Will you all help me?” She asked. Her voice was small yet loud, as she spoke with conviction that was felt by even the boys as they stared into her pleading eyes.

“Geez, are you serious, Ryuuko? Of course we will help! We’re the members of the Artificial Research Club, and you’re one of us! Do you really even need to ask us?” Juntaro laughed heartily from his live chat.

“Senpai...!”

“Heh, I hate to agree with senpai but yes. Takatora, there is no way we would turn you down. Whatever it is, if you need our help then we’ll be there for you.” Takuya answered boldly.

“Hideyoshi...!” Ryuuko said with a smile, before turning to the scowling face of the club president who stared at her intensely. His face was almost emotionless and his eyes were a frightening piercing gaze. “P-president...”

“Hmph...as the sitting president, I too declare that no matter whatever will happen, we will not hesitate to assist you, a member of our club. To save this world, to save it...“her”, or anybody else. We are the A.R.C., and it is our obligation to help all those that request it for we are the only ones able to and it is our responsibility.” The president answered, his voice booming and commanding as he spoke with a slight smile spreading across his face.

“Everyone...thank you. Thank you so much.” Ryuuko smiled as she held the handle of the massive blade in her hands, before plunging it into the ground. A powerful tremor shook the land as it fell.

From her right arm, the three veins that was attached to the back of her weapon released itself and slithered in the air, wriggling and squirming. The boys watched with familiarity of something that had happened before . Although they were still and could not move, a slight shiver went down their spines as the memories of pain and madness flashed in their minds. However, as they stared into the calming face of the young girl, all their fears were washed away and replaced by an indomitable feeling of trust.

“It’ll tickle a bit.” She told them as the veins enlarged themselves into thick black tentacles and immediately rushed through the three boy. An inexplicable feeling of pain, felt by even Kenjirou and Juntaro, flowed through them as something vile was being injected into their bodies.

EVE: CORRUPTION OF MAN