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This chapter is "kinda" long (8 pages on MS word 
) so I decided to break it up into installments so it wouldn't be so overwhelming and hard to read. Enjoy!
Chapter Thirty-Two: The Connections We Hold Dear
Part One:
Part Two:
Part Three:
Part Four:
Part Five:
Part Six:
Part Seven:
Part Eight:
Part Nine:
Author's Notes:
) so I decided to break it up into installments so it wouldn't be so overwhelming and hard to read. Enjoy!Chapter Thirty-Two: The Connections We Hold Dear
Part One:
Zee Zee, why wont you talk to me? whined Tabitha as she tugged on the exorcists sleeves. Zeran rolled his eyes and moved his arms away from the girl. He preferred to work alone since he believed that working with others hindered the missions success. Why was he paired up with them?
Of course, he wasnt the only person happy about the arrangement
:: begin flash back ::
What do you mean I have to work with them? Especially HER! shouted an enraged Zeran. Lione looked at him puzzled but before he could open his mouth, he was interrupted by an even angrier Stephanie. Why do I have to work with HIM? It appeared that the only person delighted by the announcement was Tabitha who was dancing and singing joyfully about her assigned group.
Lione sank his head down and sighed. Like I said, Rinvak selected the teams and I trust her judgment. Besides, I dont think the three of you could hate each other THAT much. I mean, what has Zeran done to you, Stephanie?
Excuse me! What hasnt he done to me? exasperated the female exorcist. He has terrorized me with his immature and improper pranks! Dont you remember the hair dye incident? The drugging incident? My skin turning blue? I believe that my life is endangered particularly my social one.
For your information, I didnt do two of the three mentioned complaints, began Zeran before he noticed Stephanies death glare. That obviously didnt help the situation. Besides, I was framed by THAT brat and her brother for the first two. I walked in at the wrong time for the shampoo incident and her brother gave me that spiked drink to give to you. Honestly, I would have never done such a deed.
ENOUGH! yelled the branch leader. Seriously, sometimes he believed he was dealing with two years olds instead of teenagers. You guys are getting on that train and if any member is missing, you will have to run an extra five miles. So pack your things and shut up.
Pushing all three of the exorcists out of his office, he slammed the door on their faces. Yay for group trips! squealed an oblivious Tabitha as she wrapped her arms around her companions shoulders.
:: end flashback ::
He looked at Stephanie who was sitting by the window and sighed. This exorcist refused to talk to him and if he managed to get a word out of her, it was said in a curt and annoyed manner. He turned and glared at Tabitha who was now on the floor, flashing him that innocent look that seemed to work on everyone except him and maybe Rinvak. She bothered him with her immaturity and her ability to avoid punishment. It was going to be a long train ride to the Ozarks.
Zee Zee began the teenager as she now began tugging his pants. Zeran folded his legs under his knees and snapped, Stop calling me that! My name is Zeran.
The girl stared at him quizzically and smiled. You must be bored! I know that weve been on this train forever so why dont we play a game to pass the time? Have you ever played poker?
Zeran groaned. Some people just never got a hint.
Of course, he wasnt the only person happy about the arrangement
:: begin flash back ::
What do you mean I have to work with them? Especially HER! shouted an enraged Zeran. Lione looked at him puzzled but before he could open his mouth, he was interrupted by an even angrier Stephanie. Why do I have to work with HIM? It appeared that the only person delighted by the announcement was Tabitha who was dancing and singing joyfully about her assigned group.
Lione sank his head down and sighed. Like I said, Rinvak selected the teams and I trust her judgment. Besides, I dont think the three of you could hate each other THAT much. I mean, what has Zeran done to you, Stephanie?
Excuse me! What hasnt he done to me? exasperated the female exorcist. He has terrorized me with his immature and improper pranks! Dont you remember the hair dye incident? The drugging incident? My skin turning blue? I believe that my life is endangered particularly my social one.
For your information, I didnt do two of the three mentioned complaints, began Zeran before he noticed Stephanies death glare. That obviously didnt help the situation. Besides, I was framed by THAT brat and her brother for the first two. I walked in at the wrong time for the shampoo incident and her brother gave me that spiked drink to give to you. Honestly, I would have never done such a deed.
ENOUGH! yelled the branch leader. Seriously, sometimes he believed he was dealing with two years olds instead of teenagers. You guys are getting on that train and if any member is missing, you will have to run an extra five miles. So pack your things and shut up.
Pushing all three of the exorcists out of his office, he slammed the door on their faces. Yay for group trips! squealed an oblivious Tabitha as she wrapped her arms around her companions shoulders.
:: end flashback ::
He looked at Stephanie who was sitting by the window and sighed. This exorcist refused to talk to him and if he managed to get a word out of her, it was said in a curt and annoyed manner. He turned and glared at Tabitha who was now on the floor, flashing him that innocent look that seemed to work on everyone except him and maybe Rinvak. She bothered him with her immaturity and her ability to avoid punishment. It was going to be a long train ride to the Ozarks.
Zee Zee began the teenager as she now began tugging his pants. Zeran folded his legs under his knees and snapped, Stop calling me that! My name is Zeran.
The girl stared at him quizzically and smiled. You must be bored! I know that weve been on this train forever so why dont we play a game to pass the time? Have you ever played poker?
Zeran groaned. Some people just never got a hint.
Part Two:
Despite the loud conversation between her companions, Stephanie was surprised that she was actually able to think to herself. However, what was even more surprising for her was the fact that Lione decided that she was well enough to be sent on a mission. Well, according to the branch leader, she was in adequate condition, not the perfect condition. She was just adequate. His words reflected in her mind:
Dont push yourself too hard. The last thing this branch needs is another injured exorcist. Because I doubt that youll listen to me, Im sending you not as an exorcist but as a Finder.
Stephanie moaned as she twirled her black ribbons with her fingers. Being demoted from exorcist to Finderhow embarrassing! Looking out of the window, she noted the sun slowly setting over the Arkansas River; the water was dyed with vibrant colors of red, orange and yellow as if the sun was spilling its blood. It would be a while for the exorcists to reach their destination; maybe it would be okay for her to take a little nap
Dont push yourself too hard. The last thing this branch needs is another injured exorcist. Because I doubt that youll listen to me, Im sending you not as an exorcist but as a Finder.
Stephanie moaned as she twirled her black ribbons with her fingers. Being demoted from exorcist to Finderhow embarrassing! Looking out of the window, she noted the sun slowly setting over the Arkansas River; the water was dyed with vibrant colors of red, orange and yellow as if the sun was spilling its blood. It would be a while for the exorcists to reach their destination; maybe it would be okay for her to take a little nap
Part Three:
What do you mean you forgot her on the train? yelled Zeran. Tabitha shrank back in fright; he was awfully scary when he was mad. She replied meekly, I thought that you were going to wake her up.
Zeran shook his head and hissed through clenched teeth, I told you to wake her up while I get our luggage. Goddamn it, dont you ever listen? Tabitha yelped and backed away; her partner was looking quite murderous and she was eying his hands which were inching closer to his Innocence.
Maybe we should go back and get her before its too late? You know, before the train reaches Texas? suggested Tabitha as she tried to calm Zeran down. Maybe appearing apologetic to him would ease his tension. If it worked on everyone else at HQ, so why wouldnt it work on him?
Instead this caused him to raise his right hand. Pointing his index finger at her, the male exorcist gradually raised his voice, Excuse me? We? We? No, it will be YOU who will get her! All your life people have been making excuses and have been blamed for your mistakes including me. Its about time you learn to become responsible and face the consequences of your actions. Im so sick of your immaturity and its about time for you to GROW UP.
Tabitha quickly grabbed her bag and ran towards the train station not only to get the missing exorcist but to escape immediate harm. Huffing loudly, she wondered to herself what was Zerans problem.
Zeran shook his head and hissed through clenched teeth, I told you to wake her up while I get our luggage. Goddamn it, dont you ever listen? Tabitha yelped and backed away; her partner was looking quite murderous and she was eying his hands which were inching closer to his Innocence.
Maybe we should go back and get her before its too late? You know, before the train reaches Texas? suggested Tabitha as she tried to calm Zeran down. Maybe appearing apologetic to him would ease his tension. If it worked on everyone else at HQ, so why wouldnt it work on him?
Instead this caused him to raise his right hand. Pointing his index finger at her, the male exorcist gradually raised his voice, Excuse me? We? We? No, it will be YOU who will get her! All your life people have been making excuses and have been blamed for your mistakes including me. Its about time you learn to become responsible and face the consequences of your actions. Im so sick of your immaturity and its about time for you to GROW UP.
Tabitha quickly grabbed her bag and ran towards the train station not only to get the missing exorcist but to escape immediate harm. Huffing loudly, she wondered to herself what was Zerans problem.
Part Four:
The train station was crowded with people rushing in and out of the many trains that had arrived. Tabitha pushed her way through the masses and towards the platform. She was hoping that by some miracle the train was still there, but unfortunately it had disappeared. A sense of panic overcame her; Zeran would not be happy to hear this.
Suddenly, someone tapped her on the shoulder, causing her to jump a good foot.
Stephanie! I am so glad to see you! exclaimed the exorcist as she hugged the Asian. She was definitely the worlds happiest girl at that moment and she never thanked God so much in her whole life.
Playing with her black ribbons, Stephanie smiled and replied, I woke up as soon as the train left. I managed to convince the conductor to stop the train and let me off after it left five miles from the station.
Tabitha looked down at her feet and whispered, Are you mad at me for not waking you up? Stephanie gave her an odd look and then laughed. At first I was but the walk back calmed me down. Dont worry about it; I understand that you made a mistake. Why dont we walk back to the rest of the group before they worry about us?
The teenager nodded in agreement and the girls headed towards the exit.
Suddenly, someone tapped her on the shoulder, causing her to jump a good foot.
Stephanie! I am so glad to see you! exclaimed the exorcist as she hugged the Asian. She was definitely the worlds happiest girl at that moment and she never thanked God so much in her whole life.
Playing with her black ribbons, Stephanie smiled and replied, I woke up as soon as the train left. I managed to convince the conductor to stop the train and let me off after it left five miles from the station.
Tabitha looked down at her feet and whispered, Are you mad at me for not waking you up? Stephanie gave her an odd look and then laughed. At first I was but the walk back calmed me down. Dont worry about it; I understand that you made a mistake. Why dont we walk back to the rest of the group before they worry about us?
The teenager nodded in agreement and the girls headed towards the exit.
Part Five:
The stroll through the small Arkansas town was quite peaceful and a nice change from the bustling train station. As the light posts slowly lit up, Tabitha felt her earlier anxiety leaving her body and once again she was skipping through the street.
Stephanie smiled; seeing such a playful girl reminded her of her youth before that incident. So what is our mission? I didnt bother reading the report since I thought I would read it on the train.
Without missing a beat, Tabitha replied, Lione was really concerned because a bunch of Finders who were investigating a weird phenomenon here started disappearing. My brother was one of the lucky few who didnt so I believe Zeran went ahead to meet him to get some more information. We arent sure if their disappearance is due to an Innocence or some other reason.
Oh, I see. I bet you look forward to seeing him, Stephanie comprehended. Is there anything else that were supposed to do in the Ozarks? Tabitha nodded and continued, Lione believes that the Earl might be hunting down the Heart because of information he received from the main branch. Hes also afraid that the Noahs are trying to extract information from the Bookmen so were searching for them as well so we can offer them protection.
In the distance, the girls could see Zeran with a tall, skinny man. Tabitha gasped and didnt know what to do. Part of her wanted to run and hug her brother but the other part was afraid that this would encourage his overprotective behavior. Also, this could bring her close to possible danger from a still angry exorcist.
Taby!!!!!!!!!! Before she could react, she felt someone squeezing the life out of her. As she struggled from her brothers grasp, she squeaked, Edward, could you please let me go? I cant breathe! Besides, youre embarrassing me in front of my friends. Zeran rolled his eyes while Stephanie looked on, amused.
Edward quickly let his sister go and apologized, Im so sorry! I shouldnt have done that but you know its just a natural impulse. This time, it was Tabitha who rolled her eyes.
The girl quickly turned to Zeran and proudly announced, I told you that you shouldnt have worried! Stephanie wasnt mad when I met her at the train station so and stuck her tongue out.
Zeran clenched his fists together and tried his hardest from yelling at the girl. What the heck? If he did something, Stephanie would hold a grudge against him forever; but if she did something, it was all peachy. Girls are so fickle!
After calming down, the exorcist cleared his throat and asked, Anyway, what information do you have for us, Finder? The faster they finish their mission, the faster he got from being away from her.
Edward straightened up and brushed his brown hair from his eyes. He was still recovering from causing such an embarrassing scene for his sister and he had forgotten his role. How could he delay their mission? Hopefully, Tabitha wouldnt look down on him.
The Finder opened his bag and took out his notes. I wasnt in the group that disappeared but from my notes I do believe that there is an Innocence involved. It might be the Innocence that caused some of the Finders to vanish but Im not 100% sure.
The exorcists stood in silence as they listened to Edwards news as if they were digesting his words and creating a strategy for the situation. Zeran looked up and pondered, Well, it is pretty late and theres no point in exploring the rocky area in the dark. Why dont we call it a night and investigate tomorrow morning? His companions nodded and grabbed their bags.
Stephanie smiled; seeing such a playful girl reminded her of her youth before that incident. So what is our mission? I didnt bother reading the report since I thought I would read it on the train.
Without missing a beat, Tabitha replied, Lione was really concerned because a bunch of Finders who were investigating a weird phenomenon here started disappearing. My brother was one of the lucky few who didnt so I believe Zeran went ahead to meet him to get some more information. We arent sure if their disappearance is due to an Innocence or some other reason.
Oh, I see. I bet you look forward to seeing him, Stephanie comprehended. Is there anything else that were supposed to do in the Ozarks? Tabitha nodded and continued, Lione believes that the Earl might be hunting down the Heart because of information he received from the main branch. Hes also afraid that the Noahs are trying to extract information from the Bookmen so were searching for them as well so we can offer them protection.
In the distance, the girls could see Zeran with a tall, skinny man. Tabitha gasped and didnt know what to do. Part of her wanted to run and hug her brother but the other part was afraid that this would encourage his overprotective behavior. Also, this could bring her close to possible danger from a still angry exorcist.
Taby!!!!!!!!!! Before she could react, she felt someone squeezing the life out of her. As she struggled from her brothers grasp, she squeaked, Edward, could you please let me go? I cant breathe! Besides, youre embarrassing me in front of my friends. Zeran rolled his eyes while Stephanie looked on, amused.
Edward quickly let his sister go and apologized, Im so sorry! I shouldnt have done that but you know its just a natural impulse. This time, it was Tabitha who rolled her eyes.
The girl quickly turned to Zeran and proudly announced, I told you that you shouldnt have worried! Stephanie wasnt mad when I met her at the train station so and stuck her tongue out.
Zeran clenched his fists together and tried his hardest from yelling at the girl. What the heck? If he did something, Stephanie would hold a grudge against him forever; but if she did something, it was all peachy. Girls are so fickle!
After calming down, the exorcist cleared his throat and asked, Anyway, what information do you have for us, Finder? The faster they finish their mission, the faster he got from being away from her.
Edward straightened up and brushed his brown hair from his eyes. He was still recovering from causing such an embarrassing scene for his sister and he had forgotten his role. How could he delay their mission? Hopefully, Tabitha wouldnt look down on him.
The Finder opened his bag and took out his notes. I wasnt in the group that disappeared but from my notes I do believe that there is an Innocence involved. It might be the Innocence that caused some of the Finders to vanish but Im not 100% sure.
The exorcists stood in silence as they listened to Edwards news as if they were digesting his words and creating a strategy for the situation. Zeran looked up and pondered, Well, it is pretty late and theres no point in exploring the rocky area in the dark. Why dont we call it a night and investigate tomorrow morning? His companions nodded and grabbed their bags.
Part Six:
As they headed towards the hotel, a frantic scream broke the silence of the night.
GET AWAY FROM HER!
The group quickly turned around and was surprised by what stood before them. Panting heavily, a figure stood two blocks from them with her hands on her knees. DID YOU HEAR ME? GET AWAY FROM THAT AKUMA!
What the began Tabitha before a sharp blow hit her in the stomach. She noticed Zeran and her brother flying in different direction as she hit the ground at full force. The Stephanie who stood before her started laughing hysterically as green ribbons danced around her body.
Damn you, sister! You just had to ruin my fun! I was so close to killing these exorcists; they didnt notice a thing, laughed the Akuma as she eyed her twin running towards her. The Akuma slammed her ribbon on the ground, resulting in a gap that collapsed the surrounding buildings and separated Stephanie from the others.
Tabitha slowly got up and muttered, Innocence, activate! However, before she could attack she felt something sharp slapping her cheek. She recoiled backward as she noticed her opponent eying her coolly. Several feet away from her, ribbons separated Zeran from his katana. Edward tried unsuccessfully to strike the Akuma with his kunai only to be slammed against a stone wall. The real Stephanie had now reached the gap and was desperately trying to reach her companions.
Little girl, I have to thank you, the Akuma beamed. If it wasnt for your forgetting to get my sister from the train, I wouldnt have been so successful. Because of your aid, I think I shall kill you first as a reward.
Tabitha didnt even see the green ribbons coming at her; they were moving too fast that all she could do was cover her face with her arms, close her eyes, and pray. Hopefully, the pain would be bearable.
GET AWAY FROM HER!
The group quickly turned around and was surprised by what stood before them. Panting heavily, a figure stood two blocks from them with her hands on her knees. DID YOU HEAR ME? GET AWAY FROM THAT AKUMA!
What the began Tabitha before a sharp blow hit her in the stomach. She noticed Zeran and her brother flying in different direction as she hit the ground at full force. The Stephanie who stood before her started laughing hysterically as green ribbons danced around her body.
Damn you, sister! You just had to ruin my fun! I was so close to killing these exorcists; they didnt notice a thing, laughed the Akuma as she eyed her twin running towards her. The Akuma slammed her ribbon on the ground, resulting in a gap that collapsed the surrounding buildings and separated Stephanie from the others.
Tabitha slowly got up and muttered, Innocence, activate! However, before she could attack she felt something sharp slapping her cheek. She recoiled backward as she noticed her opponent eying her coolly. Several feet away from her, ribbons separated Zeran from his katana. Edward tried unsuccessfully to strike the Akuma with his kunai only to be slammed against a stone wall. The real Stephanie had now reached the gap and was desperately trying to reach her companions.
Little girl, I have to thank you, the Akuma beamed. If it wasnt for your forgetting to get my sister from the train, I wouldnt have been so successful. Because of your aid, I think I shall kill you first as a reward.
Tabitha didnt even see the green ribbons coming at her; they were moving too fast that all she could do was cover her face with her arms, close her eyes, and pray. Hopefully, the pain would be bearable.
Part Seven:
TABITHA! The girl opened her eyes only to come face to face with her brothers eyes. He smiled and mouthed, Ta
bi
tha before collapsing into her arms. His body pinned her against the brick building and her body couldnt or wouldnt push him away. Her limbs went numb and her hands were shaking uncontrollably. She felt a warm liquid on her hands as she tried to hug her brother. Does blood really come out this fast? Why wont it stop? Oh God, please stop! She begged. His beautiful blue eyes were now fading and his body grew heavier by the minutes.
From above, the Akuma was laughing as she watched the pitiful sight. Zeran had now reunited with his Innocence by this time and now had drawn it out. Even though he couldnt stand that brat, he knew that this wasnt the time to let a grudge control his judgment.
Foolish Finder! Did you really believe that you could defeat a level 4 Akuma with that dinky weapon? mocked the Akuma. Zeran had now run in front of the girl and glanced at Tabitha from the corner of his eye. Her mouth was quivering as if she wanted to scream but couldnt. God, how could they let this happen?
Listen well, exorcists, before I kill you. I want you to feel the humiliation of your stupidity and gullibility. There is no Innocence in this part of the world. I had created the phenomenon to lure you guys to your destruction. What a shame that no one in your group was a Bookman; it would had made my job easier.
Red ribbons flashed through the sky but unfortunately, the length was too short and fell at the Akumas feet. Stephanie summoned them back and cussed to herself. Damnit! Im too far
Silly sister! You shouldnt let your emotions control your actions. No wonder humans are so pathetically weak; emotions make you so irrational and yet predictable, admonished the Akuma as she played with her green ribbons.
Stephanie screamed, You used to be human too! Staring at the gap, she commanded, Metamorphosis! Her ribbons laid flat and created some sort of bridge, allowing the exorcist to reach the other side.
The Akuma smirked and started clapping her hands. Bravo, little sister! Bravo! I would have never thought of that; it appears that youre smarter and stronger than the last time weve met. Too bad it isnt good enough. Cascades of green fell from the sky only to be pushed back by a rush of red.
From above, the Akuma was laughing as she watched the pitiful sight. Zeran had now reunited with his Innocence by this time and now had drawn it out. Even though he couldnt stand that brat, he knew that this wasnt the time to let a grudge control his judgment.
Foolish Finder! Did you really believe that you could defeat a level 4 Akuma with that dinky weapon? mocked the Akuma. Zeran had now run in front of the girl and glanced at Tabitha from the corner of his eye. Her mouth was quivering as if she wanted to scream but couldnt. God, how could they let this happen?
Listen well, exorcists, before I kill you. I want you to feel the humiliation of your stupidity and gullibility. There is no Innocence in this part of the world. I had created the phenomenon to lure you guys to your destruction. What a shame that no one in your group was a Bookman; it would had made my job easier.
Red ribbons flashed through the sky but unfortunately, the length was too short and fell at the Akumas feet. Stephanie summoned them back and cussed to herself. Damnit! Im too far
Silly sister! You shouldnt let your emotions control your actions. No wonder humans are so pathetically weak; emotions make you so irrational and yet predictable, admonished the Akuma as she played with her green ribbons.
Stephanie screamed, You used to be human too! Staring at the gap, she commanded, Metamorphosis! Her ribbons laid flat and created some sort of bridge, allowing the exorcist to reach the other side.
The Akuma smirked and started clapping her hands. Bravo, little sister! Bravo! I would have never thought of that; it appears that youre smarter and stronger than the last time weve met. Too bad it isnt good enough. Cascades of green fell from the sky only to be pushed back by a rush of red.
Part Eight:
While the sisters were fighting, Zeran was checking on Tabitha. She was still in a shocked state and she refused to let go of Edward. He knew there was no point in checking the Finders pulse; he didnt want to confirm what he already knew.
Seeing that the Akuma had her back towards him, Zeran knew that this was the perfect opportunity to strike. Jigoku Makai no En! Blue flames flew toward his opponent only to be swatted down.
If youre going to hit me with weak attacks, dont even bother to try, scolded the Akuma as she sent a green shower towards him. Zeran blocked the shots with his katana and grunted. It would have been easier to attack and move if he didnt have to defend that vulnerable girl.
A ribbon grabbed his leg and the exorcist felt himself, losing balance. He was quickly being dragged towards the Akuma who was shaping one of her ribbons into a sharp lance. Shit! I have to act fast
Suddenly the Akuma yelled and grabbed her arm, releasing Zeran in the process. It was severely cut and black liquid was oozing out of it. She turned around and smiled. Attacking with my back towards you? Thats quite a nasty ploy!
Her twin smiled in return and replied, There is no set rule when it comes to fighting. You, of course, should know that. A second barrage was being prepared to strike the Akuma down; this time she should be able to finish it off.
Do you really think that you could kill me? Your own sister? We share the same blood and even the same DNA. Killing me would only result in killing a part of you, questioned the Akuma as she herself was getting ready to defend. Besides, Mother wouldnt be happy if she saw such a thing. She never did like it when we fought.
A sea of red came towards the Akuma but she merely spun out of the way. Dont you ever bring up Mom!?! screamed the exorcist as she aimed her Innocence sporadically.
This only caused the Akuma to laugh again. See! Youre letting your emotions get the better of you again! as she gathered her ribbons together, forming a giant claw. I wonder if I should take it back I mean, it did originally belong to me.
The claw struck the ground, trying to grab Stephanie. She somehow managed to jump out of the way and sprinted behind some rubble. She was now regretting the fact that she missed Liones training.
At the same time, Zeran had finally managed to pry Tabithas arms away from Edward and forced her into a nearby building. Her brother still lied on the street with a pool of blood gradually forming around him. The exorcist removed his katana from their sheaths; they had to end it soon before others got injured.
He quickly ran to Stephanies position, dodging the akumas attack. We need to stop this situation right away before this becomes another Opalo! His partner nodded in agreement as her ribbons slithered around her. Echoes of the akumas screams rang in their ears and the giant claw was creeping closer. The Asian winked at him and whispered, I think it's time we bury the hatchet
Seeing that the Akuma had her back towards him, Zeran knew that this was the perfect opportunity to strike. Jigoku Makai no En! Blue flames flew toward his opponent only to be swatted down.
If youre going to hit me with weak attacks, dont even bother to try, scolded the Akuma as she sent a green shower towards him. Zeran blocked the shots with his katana and grunted. It would have been easier to attack and move if he didnt have to defend that vulnerable girl.
A ribbon grabbed his leg and the exorcist felt himself, losing balance. He was quickly being dragged towards the Akuma who was shaping one of her ribbons into a sharp lance. Shit! I have to act fast
Suddenly the Akuma yelled and grabbed her arm, releasing Zeran in the process. It was severely cut and black liquid was oozing out of it. She turned around and smiled. Attacking with my back towards you? Thats quite a nasty ploy!
Her twin smiled in return and replied, There is no set rule when it comes to fighting. You, of course, should know that. A second barrage was being prepared to strike the Akuma down; this time she should be able to finish it off.
Do you really think that you could kill me? Your own sister? We share the same blood and even the same DNA. Killing me would only result in killing a part of you, questioned the Akuma as she herself was getting ready to defend. Besides, Mother wouldnt be happy if she saw such a thing. She never did like it when we fought.
A sea of red came towards the Akuma but she merely spun out of the way. Dont you ever bring up Mom!?! screamed the exorcist as she aimed her Innocence sporadically.
This only caused the Akuma to laugh again. See! Youre letting your emotions get the better of you again! as she gathered her ribbons together, forming a giant claw. I wonder if I should take it back I mean, it did originally belong to me.
The claw struck the ground, trying to grab Stephanie. She somehow managed to jump out of the way and sprinted behind some rubble. She was now regretting the fact that she missed Liones training.
At the same time, Zeran had finally managed to pry Tabithas arms away from Edward and forced her into a nearby building. Her brother still lied on the street with a pool of blood gradually forming around him. The exorcist removed his katana from their sheaths; they had to end it soon before others got injured.
He quickly ran to Stephanies position, dodging the akumas attack. We need to stop this situation right away before this becomes another Opalo! His partner nodded in agreement as her ribbons slithered around her. Echoes of the akumas screams rang in their ears and the giant claw was creeping closer. The Asian winked at him and whispered, I think it's time we bury the hatchet
Part Nine:
As Stephanie moved closer to the exorcists hiding place, a sense of pleasure filled her body. Even though she had killed so many, her blood thirst had never subsided, causing her to yearn for victims. Murdering the Finder in front of his sister was quite fulfilling especially seeing that pathetic look on that girls face. She licked her lips; tonight was quite fun.
The claw was a few feet away from the rubble where the two exorcists were hiding. The blood splatter would surely be spectacular. I wont allow you to escape!
Unexpectedly, red threads surrounded the rubble and slammed the claw, causing it to lose its shape. Stephanie stood before her, poised and determined. Before the Akuma could react, the exorcist screamed, Metamorphosis! shaping some of her Innocence into a giant ball and aimed it at her former twin.
The akuma frantically sent all of her ribbons to block the attack. If she could block this assault, she knew that she could defeat those damn pests. As the ribbons wrapped around the ball, she smiled; victory was hers!
Release! Stephanies voice caught the akuma off guard. The red orb was slowly opening up like a flower that had finally bloomed; her green ribbons were now being held down and she couldnt recall them. As the last few red petals opened up, Zeran leapt from the center of the blossom and slashed the akuma across her chest.
The akuma fell to the ground, causing the earth to shake. Stephanie ran towards Zeran and asked, Did it work? Zeran just nodded but still had his swords drawn. A level 4 wouldnt die that easily.
Slowly, the akuma raised herself from the rubble, resembling a demon with her ribbons moving like they were flames. She flashed a pissed look at them and muttered, That wasnt very nice. She started to charge at them, her ribbons flaring like tentacles.
What are you doing? Are you causing unnecessary trouble, akuma? I have another job for you. The akuma froze in her stance; deep in her heart, she knew that Jacques was the Noah not to disobey.
The exorcists glanced at each other with the corners of their eyes; something was up but they had no idea why the akuma just stopped what she was doing. With their guard up, they kept their Innocence activated in case of the unexpected.
Instead, the akuma just stood there and surveyed the damage she inflicted. She was quite satisfied with the results and was positive that the Noahs would approve of the destruction she had committed. Besides, she needed to recover from the injuries those bastards had managed to give her and to give the precious information the exorcists had unwittingly told her to her masters.
As she escaped into the night, she smirked and waved farewell to the exorcists below. I guess Ill have to collect what is rightfully mine later. After all, I was the original conformer of THAT Innocence.
-FIN-
The claw was a few feet away from the rubble where the two exorcists were hiding. The blood splatter would surely be spectacular. I wont allow you to escape!
Unexpectedly, red threads surrounded the rubble and slammed the claw, causing it to lose its shape. Stephanie stood before her, poised and determined. Before the Akuma could react, the exorcist screamed, Metamorphosis! shaping some of her Innocence into a giant ball and aimed it at her former twin.
The akuma frantically sent all of her ribbons to block the attack. If she could block this assault, she knew that she could defeat those damn pests. As the ribbons wrapped around the ball, she smiled; victory was hers!
Release! Stephanies voice caught the akuma off guard. The red orb was slowly opening up like a flower that had finally bloomed; her green ribbons were now being held down and she couldnt recall them. As the last few red petals opened up, Zeran leapt from the center of the blossom and slashed the akuma across her chest.
The akuma fell to the ground, causing the earth to shake. Stephanie ran towards Zeran and asked, Did it work? Zeran just nodded but still had his swords drawn. A level 4 wouldnt die that easily.
Slowly, the akuma raised herself from the rubble, resembling a demon with her ribbons moving like they were flames. She flashed a pissed look at them and muttered, That wasnt very nice. She started to charge at them, her ribbons flaring like tentacles.
What are you doing? Are you causing unnecessary trouble, akuma? I have another job for you. The akuma froze in her stance; deep in her heart, she knew that Jacques was the Noah not to disobey.
The exorcists glanced at each other with the corners of their eyes; something was up but they had no idea why the akuma just stopped what she was doing. With their guard up, they kept their Innocence activated in case of the unexpected.
Instead, the akuma just stood there and surveyed the damage she inflicted. She was quite satisfied with the results and was positive that the Noahs would approve of the destruction she had committed. Besides, she needed to recover from the injuries those bastards had managed to give her and to give the precious information the exorcists had unwittingly told her to her masters.
As she escaped into the night, she smirked and waved farewell to the exorcists below. I guess Ill have to collect what is rightfully mine later. After all, I was the original conformer of THAT Innocence.
-FIN-
Author's Notes:
Apologies for the length! I just couldn't get this idea out of my head and I wanted to be satisfied with the results.
After rereading my draft a couple of time (the final is my 4th version of this chapter), I realized that I indirectly created a theme of maturity and siblings. Also, I had a lot of foreshadowing so I guess that's a good thing.
Ummm... don't kill off my sister yet. I have big plans for her.
To djmewmew, I kinda misled you with that PM; I did originally plan to kill your brother after writing my last one (chapter twenty-five) but I wanted to surprise you. It's not fun to write something if someone expects the outcome. I did have to modify his death; I wanted him to die before you arrived but I think it's more dramatic if he died in front of you. Also, this is a special kind of akuma, not a regular one.
Do I believe Tabitha will grow up and mature? Somewhat but not entirely; bad habits are hard to die...
To athrunzala, I hope I did your character justice. The final attack came to my mind when I was rewriting the ending and thought it was the perfect way to emphasize the teamwork between Stephanie and Zeran. I hope that you were able to imagine it in your head because it was really hard to translate an image into writing.
Did Stephanie finally forgive Zeran's for his past "crimes"? Doubt it but if she had to choose between a grudge or death, she would pick grudge. She'll just be civil with Zeran for the rest of the day until she's back to her usual self.
Sidenote: I won't be able to write a chapter for a while. I have exams everyday next week and writing a chapter takes a lot of time and energy
After my hell week is over, I'll claim another one.
After rereading my draft a couple of time (the final is my 4th version of this chapter), I realized that I indirectly created a theme of maturity and siblings. Also, I had a lot of foreshadowing so I guess that's a good thing.
Ummm... don't kill off my sister yet. I have big plans for her.
To djmewmew, I kinda misled you with that PM; I did originally plan to kill your brother after writing my last one (chapter twenty-five) but I wanted to surprise you. It's not fun to write something if someone expects the outcome. I did have to modify his death; I wanted him to die before you arrived but I think it's more dramatic if he died in front of you. Also, this is a special kind of akuma, not a regular one.
Do I believe Tabitha will grow up and mature? Somewhat but not entirely; bad habits are hard to die...
To athrunzala, I hope I did your character justice. The final attack came to my mind when I was rewriting the ending and thought it was the perfect way to emphasize the teamwork between Stephanie and Zeran. I hope that you were able to imagine it in your head because it was really hard to translate an image into writing.
Did Stephanie finally forgive Zeran's for his past "crimes"? Doubt it but if she had to choose between a grudge or death, she would pick grudge. She'll just be civil with Zeran for the rest of the day until she's back to her usual self.
Sidenote: I won't be able to write a chapter for a while. I have exams everyday next week and writing a chapter takes a lot of time and energy
After my hell week is over, I'll claim another one.
He has OUGIS!!!! XP XP XP
