Eurobeat and BL enjoyer*✧ ✰ ｡*

Meanwhile, in one room of the Isolation Unit. One certain Kusanagi is sitting in bed, and while he leans against the wall, he turns his head away from his cell door and stares at a blank wall.

It has been a couple of weeks since he was imprisoned by NESTS, and a few days since he learned about his mission partner’s tragic fate. However, he is slowly becoming accustomed to this place and doesn’t mind spending the rest of his life here.

At least, this is a suitable punishment for a criminal like him who failed the mission, and his mistake cost him Shingo’s life.

Therefore, perhaps he is kept alive to repent of his sins. Or so the brunette thinks as he closes his eyes and exhales as he sinks into a gloomier mood.

At this point, he is too exhausted to end his miserable life and has given up the hope of leaving this place. Even if he attempted to escape, he would have nowhere to stay. One worry is adopting a new identity, while another is the potential discovery of his involvement in the rebel movement.

Besides, Kyo does not wish anyone from the Resistance Force to see him deeply fall from his grace, especially Yagami. After all, his long-time partner will be disappointed if he discovers how easily he was defeated and marked by the enemy while submitting to these shameful acts.

“Whatever you are planning to do, please do not seek for me or come anywhere close. I don’t think that I could endure grieving another loss, Yagami. So, please forget me for your own sake. And do not try anything reckless, you fool…” The brunette silently prays while just imagining the redhead clenches his heart.

But for now, the sound of the automatic door opening startles him.

“How are you doing today, Kusanagi-kun?” The silver-haired scientist with glasses asks.

When he approaches Kyo, he notices that his test subject hasn’t touched his food or water ratio for two days. As he softens his gaze, he sits next to the Kusanagi.

After he wraps his arm around the brunette’s shoulder, who shows no reaction, he brings him closer. “I understand you are still not over your friend’s death. However, you cannot neglect yourself.”

“Not because you’ll grow weak and die, but I might get into deep trouble, and it would cost me my job, and we do not want that, do we?” Or so Professor Kurama keeps in his mind.

“Unfortunately, I’m afraid that this is the last day of your stay here. Starting today, you will be transferred to the research facility.” He adds in a chill tone.

When he presses Kyo against his chest, he ruffles his hair. “But you do not need to worry. You will be under doctor Makishima’s care. As long as you follow hers or the researchers’ instructions, you should be fine.”

At the moment, the professor’s words have no weight or meaning to him. It is just sweet nothing before he is sent to the deeper level of his own Avici.

After Kurama releases the brunette from the soft embrace, he kneels in front of him. As he holds his shoulder and stares into these dull amber eyes, he gives him a comforting smile. “The doctor is already waiting for us. So, shall we go?”

When he helps Kyo to stand up, he walks him through the door.

While on their way, the brunette hung his head.

Meanwhile, the blonde doctor fixes her glasses while keeping her hand in the coat’s pocket.

As this couple stands in front of her, she briefly cracks a smile. “It’s been a while, Kusanagi. How was your stay here?”

Yet, she receives no response from the silent brunette. “Either way, I assume that the professor Kurama informed you about your further plans.”

But for now, Makishima addresses the silver-haired male. “So, from now, we’ll take him over, professor.”

“You heard her, Kusanagi-kun? So, why don’t go with her?” Kurama speaks up.

After he turns his back to the blonde, he wraps his arm around Kyo. As he grins like a snake, he whispers into his ear. “Just wait for me, and will come to rescue you, Kusanagi-kun.”

For sure, it makes Kyo widen his eyes and freeze in the same spot as if being in the giant snake’s grasp, which flickers its split tongue. However, when he feels how gently the professor’s hand pushes him forward, he returns to this world.

In the end, as he walks with Makishima, he turns his head and notices that the silver-haired male closes his eyes and innocently smiles and waves while keeping his other arm behind his back.

A couple of days pass. The fluffy silver-haired male twice looks around his shoulder, making sure that no one follows him into his room.

Fortunately, none of the blonde doctor’s underlings are anywhere around.

After the brunette arrived in his new cell, he accidentally chirped too much for the doctor about the unauthorized test samples that Kurama took.

Even if the silver-haired male wasn’t aware of what Kyo had told, he was certain - Makishima wasn’t too happy about it.

Therefore, all the Kusanagi’s clones, which were not fully developed along the prototype and all documentation, were confiscated, and Kurama’s research ceased.

Even a few scientists who assisted him turned their backs on him and witnessed against him.

After Doctor Makishima reported the current situation to NESTS, instead of being shot, Professor Kurama’s every movement was monitored while working in the isolation unit.

However, his old friend still passed him a pair of communication devices, which signals cannot be tracked even by the NESTS or the Empire.

Who also knew that not murdering that defective, undocumented clone and keeping her locked in the closet during the investigation could be his key to retrieving Kyo and escaping from this place?

More importantly, showing decent behavior towards that replica brought a fine harvest. After all, that clone was blindly trustful and obedient, and she could do anything without questioning if Kurama just asked.

But for now, as the silver-haired male enters inside, the automatic door closes behind him.

After he reaches his bed and sits on it, he turns on the transmission device. Unfortunately, when he tries to dial one certain brunette, the blue holographic screen turns red, showing an error message.

At the moment, Kurama bites his nails and hisses. “Strange… She always picks it up. Don’t tell me she was killed. I knew I shouldn’t have expected much from a mere copy. How unfortunate...”

As he lowers his head and grids his teeth, he grasps the transmission device and tosses it on the ground.

When he lowers his head, he cracks a smile. “Well, even if my last hope has died, I will still find a way to how to get you out of there. So, wait for me for a bit longer, Kusanagi-kun.”

Back to the Resistance Force Headquarters. As soon as one couple of soldiers returns, Shingo hands over the slumbering male clone of the Kusanagi to the group of medics and leaves him under their care.

Meanwhile, the restrained brunette shrugs and steps back after seeing so many people in white coats in one place.

What if they are working together with the same person who imprisoned her dad and going to bring her back to the same white room and run tests on her? More so, this time nobody will ruffle her hair afterwards and praise her for enduring another experiment.

“Where are you taking Nii-sama and what are you going to do with him?” The female replica indignantly asks one of the medical staff while staying close to Iori and refusing to leave his side.

“We’re taking him to the medical unit, ma’am. However, we would also ask you to go with us.” One medic briefly explains.

“I’m not going anywhere.” The brunette backfires. After a brief pause, she continues, pointing in the redhead’s direction. “Unless he is coming together. How else I can be sure that you won’t trick me?”

For sure, such an attitude slowly gets on Iori’s nerves, and he rolls his eyes.

Yet, he tries to remain calm and addresses the remaining personnel. “Why are you still here? Don’t you have a job to do? I’ll take that woman to the medical unit even if I need to drag her, if that concerns you.”

And thus, after the medic nods, he rushes towards his team.

Lastly, he grabs this replica by her arm and prompts her to go.

Meanwhile, the brunette frowns and objects. “Oi, what do you think you’re doing?”

However, Iori only murmurs. “Why do you have to be so annoying?”

The female replica only raises her eyebrow. “Eh? Did you say anything? If you have anything to say, say it clearly, and not mumble like an old grumpy man.”

“Of all clones, why does this one have to have such an attitude?” Yagami wonders while hoping that the sooner he brings this Kusanagi’s look-alike, the sooner he can have peace of mind.

More so, no matter how he doesn’t want to admit it, he has to get along with this replica, because she might guide him where Kyo is.

Some time passes. On the way to the Medical Unit, the brunette realizes she is the center of everyone’s attention.

At first, she does her best to keep her pride and confidence despite being a prisoner in unknown territory.

Unfortunately, it becomes a difficult task when she can feel the male soldiers fixating their eyes on her with such morbid curiosity. For now, she gives a questioning look at Yagami. “Hey, why are they staring at me like that? Do I look that weird?”

Meanwhile, Iori only grids his teeth and gives a deadly glare to anyone who looks in their direction.

At the moment, he can swear that even one wrong gesture or word will be enough to send anyone flying across the hallway.

He's not interested in a fake version of Kyo or the attention of these men they are giving her, but he's just tired and frustrated. Or so Iori convinces himself.

But for now, he exhales. “Just don’t pay too much attention to it.”

“If you say so. However, they are not dad’s co-workers. So, why they are so fixated on me and can’t mind their own business? It’s not that they need to test or confirm something for the research.” The brunette honestly replies.

Instead of making unnecessary comments, Iori holds back.

After reaching their destination place the automated door opens, and both enter inside.

As Yagami makes his way through rushing medical personnel, he notices the staff gathered around one healing capsule.

“Hey, Kagura. I brought that pesky clone.” The redhead addresses the certain doctor.

When the ebony-haired woman turns back, she replies. “Welcome back.”

As she takes a better look at the tied-up Kyo’s look-alike standing next to him, she briefly gets confused. Despite that, she comments. “You do almost resemble Kusanagi as if you were his sibling…”

Yet, the brunette demands the answers. “I dunno who is Kusanagi, but all I know is that Nii-sama is here. So, where is he, and what have you done to him?”

“You can rest assured. Your brother is fine, and he just needs plenty of rest.” Chizuru reassures her and lets her get closer to the capsule, where the prototype peacefully slumbers.

“Nii-sama…” the female clone whispers in a nearly pitiful voice.

A second later, the dark-haired woman adds in a serious tone. “But for now, I would ask you to cooperate with us. At first, I would need to need to examine you properly.”

Lastly, she addresses Iori. “You can leave now… And thank you for what have you done.”

“Whatever… Just be careful and don’t be tricked by her. She might look weak and innocent, but she is as strong as Kyo.” The redhead replies as he turns back and raises his palm. Finally, he walks away while keeping his hands in his pants pockets.

Meanwhile, the female replica tries to over-talk Kagura. “Do I really I have to do this?”

“I’m afraid that this is the only way how can I can check if you are injured. However, later on, you can change into clean pajama.” The dark-haired doctor patiently replies.

“That is the very first thing that dad gave me. So, there is no way I’ll let you discard it!” The brunette objects while pointing out at her body suit.

“But what if I promise you I will keep it for you? And I’m sure that your father would be relieved knowing that you are alright or not sick.” Chizuru continues negotiating with the brunette.

At first, the female replica doubts her intentions, yet she lowers her guard temporally. “Alright. I trust you for now, I guess. Besides, you wear the same coat as my dad. So, you can’t be a bad person, right?”

In the end, Chizuru closes her eyes and ruffles the clone’s hair as a small sign of gratitude.

Several hours pass. It is the middle of the night, and everyone is already asleep in the bunkers.

Unfortunately, one redhead’s peaceful rest is disturbed by the sensation of someone sleeping next to him.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes and turns to check whether he is still dreaming.

Not only does he realize he is not alone, but he also has a weird feeling about who might be that fearless fool who asks for their death wish.

No matter how much he is tempted to kick out the sleeping brunette, he understands it will awaken everyone, and he’ll get into trouble.

For now, Iori nuzzles the female clone while whispering. “Hey, enough sleeping. Wake up.”

Yet, the brunette only frowns and replies in a sleepy voice. “What is your problem? If you can’t sleep, at least let the others, you know.”

That woman wants to test his patience limits, doesn’t she? Iori thinks to himself while facepalming.

Instead, he shortly instructs. “Get up. We’re leaving.”

“Where? I’m fine staying here.” The Kusanagi’s look-alike objects. When she climbs on top of Iori, she rests her arms on his chest and smiles like a feline. “And I could use you as a pillow.”

It might be pointless arguing with this pesky troublemaker any further. Therefore, he has to figure out how to make this creature leave without causing problems.

“How did you get there? And what do you want from me?” The redhead asks.

The brunette lowers her gaze. “I didn’t want to sleep alone, and dad didn’t mind it either when I was still in the lab because he told that it would be warmer. So, I don’t get why are you complaining?”

After a brief pause, she confesses. “Even if I had no idea that you were staying here, I just simply followed my intuition.’’

When she places a palm on her chest, she continues. “As if, deep inside me, there was a part of me telling me I should trust you and seek you despite you being such an idiot. Heck, just listening to that strong feeling, I also guessed the password of this room. So, now I wonder what kind of relationship you had with Nii-sama…”

After listening to these words, Yagami explains. “I have nothing to do with that cheap copy.”

Surely, it confuses this clone. “But dad shown me a photo of Nii-sama, and asked me to bring him. He even entrusted this task to me because he told me I was the only one who could do it.”

“Then your father tricked you. You two are nothing more dull replicas of Kyo.” Iori briefly replies.

The brunette only gets bewildered by this man’s words and speaks up. “You’re… you’re lying. Dad is a very kind person and why else he would have told me that everyone else who looked like Nii-sama were fakes and I shouldn’t feel bad for them? Or that a bad people, who are stole his hard work, made them?”

“If your father truly cared about you, why hasn't he reached out? You are just a tool for him or for whoever these bastards to kidnapped Kyo and made you. For fuck's sake, even after you reunited with your brother, you should have noticed any differences between that photo or him in person.” The redhead backfires.

The female clone hangs her head and remains silent for a while.

After receiving no answers, Iori asks while keeping his poker face. “What’s wrong? Does the truth hurt you?”

She only shakes her head in disbelief. “I… I don’t understand. Why dad wanted me to bring Nii-sama to him, if he isn’t Original? It makes no sense.”

“This is what I want to know as well, and you will help me find Kyo and rescue him.” The redhead replies in a calm tone.

Meanwhile, this replica remarks. “You seem to adore and care about my original a lot. Now, I kinda get it why that one part of me cannot help but feel attracted towards you. Maybe you are not that bad person if he feels that way.”

As the brunette genially smiles, she adds. “After all, dad mentioned to me once that I share not only Original’s skills but also his emotions and at some point his memories.”

Yet, when she notices the dumbfounded redhead, she raises her eyebrow. “Hey, what’s wrong you with you? Did I say anything wrong? Or didn’t you know this?”

After Iori turns his head and closes his eyes, he tries to remain calm. “And you are poking your nose into the others’ business like him.”

When he gets up, he addresses this replica. “Either way, let’s get you back to your room.”

Despite not comprehending Yagami's reaction earlier, the brunette still does what he asks.

It is almost the middle of the night, and everyone seems to be asleep in Yagami’s apartment. When the moon gets hidden by the gray clouds, it’s raining.

Soon enough, gentle raindrops grow into a heavy, pouring rain. And thus, a rhythmic, loud tapping at the window wakes one redhead.

Surely, it’s frustrating how such a simple thing disturbs his rest.

Suddenly, the lightning strikes, and he feels how someone clings to him and rubs his head against his chest before exhaling and releasing him.

At first, Iori assumes Kyo woke up as well. Yet, when he whispers his partner’s name, he doesn’t receive any response.

The redhead understands that the Kusanagi is unconsciously influenced by the weather while dreaming about something.

While Iori stares through the window, he wonders.

It’s been a while since he had such a sleepless night during the storm, or even much longer since that one time. That one rainy night changed their relationship completely. Or perhaps, just fastened the inevitable.

A few years ago.

A couple of weeks have passed since Kyo’s wounds have healed.

Of course, he didn’t want to use his rival’s kindness for too long by living rent-free in his apartment. Nor to make Iori think he is taking advantage of him. And thus, when he could stand on his feet, he left.

Besides, he still feels guilty for making his family and friends worry about his sudden disappearance for a year. Perhaps he was buried in someone’s mind. But Kyo still worries about how he’ll get greeted or that his rival nursed him.

Either way, he wouldn’t mind staying longer if Yagami asked him. Strangely, he almost got used to it as it was his own home.

A month passed by. Finally, after a long time, the brunette is ready to have another match against Iori.

Besides, he is as thrilled as Iori, and it might be a good practice and a better way to get back in shape. Or so Kyo is determined as he fixes the biker gloves and puts on the white jacket before leaving.

After arriving at the destination place, he spots one certain redhead leaning against the wall.

When Iori notices him, he delightfully smiles and crosses his arms. “You’ve made me wait for you, Kyo.”

“Aren’t you so eager to get your ass kicked?” The Kusanagi replies as he raises his palm and ignites it. While the orange flame dances on his palm, he adds. “Fine. Just don’t get burnt~”

When Yagami approaches him, he repeats the same movement. “You talk too much… This time you’ll sing your swan song!”

Lastly, the brunette announces as the little fire sparkles in his eyes. “I would love to see that. Let’s do this, Yagami!”. Thus, after both dim their flames, both charge at each other, another fierce battle begins.

Some time passes. Finally, the match is over, but there is no clear winner. Apparently, both opponents barely stand while catching their breath.

While Iori holds onto himself and pants, he stares at Kyo, who wipes his mouth with a fist, giving a mocking look. “Have you realized that the victory is mine?”

Unfortunately, his launched punch is too weak that it’s enough for the redhead to move a bit and dodge the strike.

When the brunette harshly collapses on the gravel, he grunts.

“Tsk. Look who is talking?” Iori backfires as he bends and places his arm under his rival’s armpit. After they stand up together, he adds. “Either way, you’re going with me.”

Kyo only gives a questioning look. “What are you talking about?”

“Isn’t obvious? Your wounds need to be treated before you’ll face me next time.” Yagami explains while supporting the brunette.

After a while, they arrive at Iori’s apartment.

At first, the Kusanagi doubts his rival’s intentions when they enter the living room, and the redhead asks him to remove his black long-sleeved t-shirt.

Nevertheless, he does what is told and waits for Iori.

A few minutes pass. And thus, Yagami returns while carrying the first aid kit and sits close to him on the couch.

When the redhead opens the medkit and picks up the spray disinfectant, he orders. “Give me your arm.”

When Kyo turns his head away, he extends his arm. For now, he doesn’t mind how Iori holds his wrist or him examining his arm.

Yet, the sensation of the cold, stinging liquid sprayed over it makes him close his eyes.

“What’s wrong? It needs to be clean. So, hold it like this for a bit longer.” The redhead comments while he dries the disinfected area by gently tapping with the sterile cotton.

After he wraps the medical bandage around Kyo’s arm, he repeats the same process with another one.

Yet, the Kusanagi panics when Iori parts his legs with his knee and leans closer.

It doesn’t help that he cannot read the redhead’s serious face.

“The heck you’re doing?” The brunette widens his eyes and presses his back against the couch.

Meanwhile, Iori only narrows his gaze and sticks the white plaster on Kyo’s cheek.

After studying the brunette for longer, he remarks. “You don’t seem to have more wounds.”.

When Iori withdraws and tidies the left mess, he gets up and adds. “You can dress up and leave.”

For sure, ever since Iori brought him to his apartment after the NESTS lab incident, Kyo has noticed such weird behavior.

Of course, the brunette is curious whether Yagami is always like this or something bothers him.

That’s why he is determined to uncover the truth, even if he might get dragged out and thrown by the back of his collar.

When Kyo rests his hands behind his shoulders and sinks into the couch, he replies. “Why? I’m all good at staying here. Besides, I have no plans for tonight. So, be glad that I am gonna keep you a company.”

“Why do you have to be like this?” Iori facepalms.

The Kusanagi simply answers. “You’ve been acting strangely.”

“And you’re sticking your nose into other’s business as usual,” Iori complains.

“Then you wouldn’t put on a show like now if nothing happened. You’re in some sort of trouble, but you’re too stubborn to ask for help.” Kyo backfires.

As he lowers his arms and looks down, he feels a tightness in his throat, making it difficult to speak. After shakily exhaling, he adds while clenching his palms into the fists. “How can’t you understand that you’re not alone and the entire world is not your enemy? It’s okay to rely on others or at least on me if you don’t trust that much anyone, you know. And… I don’t want to see you suffering.”

Meanwhile, Yagami only rolls his eyes and thinks to himself. “Then do not interfere and leave me alone, you fool.”

Lastly, Kyo confesses in a calm tone. “I know I cannot lift your blood curse, nor you denounce your name to end it. However, at least let me relieve a part of your pain. Because I don’t want to lose you ever again.”

Suddenly, Iori corners his rival and grasps his throat while he doesn’t remove his eyes from him.

As his hand slides to the side of his neck, Kyo breathes a sigh of relief and looks at him, still in shock. “Yagami?”

“Don’t tell me I didn’t warn you.” The redhead whispers.

Just before Kyo says anything else, he closes his eyes and gasps when Iori sinks his face into the crook of his neck and starts licking it.

Soon enough, the sound of the thunderstorm and heavy rain made him widen his eyes.

The sensation of how his sensitive neck is assaulted bewilders Kyo. All he can do is hold back from letting out the purring-like noises. More so, without realizing it, he wraps one arm around his partner’s shoulders.

After such a gesture, Iori withdraws his face and stares at Kyo. For now, he is just as confused as the brunette.

However, none of them say anything, or there is no need to waste time on that. A second later, the redhead gives a questioning look to the Kusanagi while his placed hand on his chest slides down his abs.

Of course, Kyo is aware of what it will lead to, but he doesn’t mind. If this is what his partner wants or simply seeking comfort, then so be it.

After all, it’s the person to whom he can entrust his life and body. Iori saw and accepted him when he was most vulnerable, pathetic, and broken.

Besides, it should be fine to do it with someone he knows rather than being violated by soulless machines and disposed of after fulfilling his purpose. Or so Kyo decides, as he only closes his eyes and nods.

More so, if he was disgusted or didn’t want it, he could still push Iori away and run. The fact that Iori had concealed these powerful feelings for an unknown length of time was more shocking than finally revealing them.

In the end, the brunette leaves the rest for his partner.

Several minutes pass. Aside from the raindrops rapidly tapping the window, the bedroom is filled with lover cries and groaning.

Only watching his long-time rival making such lewd, adorable expressions and sounds even more arouses Iori.

After all, it’s his first time seeing this side of Kyo. However, it only makes him desire of him more.

More so, the redhead hopes that nobody witnessed before or ever will something endearing that only belongs to him. He is even ready to kill anyone on the spot, whoever would dare to touch Kyo or take him away from him again.

Meanwhile, the brunette addresses his partner. “I don’t get it. You keep saying that you’ll kill me… But now… You.. you’re doing the opposite.”

When Iori stops moving, Kyo realizes he did something wrong and ruined the intimate moment.

However, he widens his eyes when Yagami holds his hands and pulls him to a kiss. At first, such a gesture genially confused Kyo.

After all, it’s only sex which only purpose is to use someone to get what you want, even if that person objects. Or so the brunette learned it the hard way.

That’s why, now it feels the opposite of what he had experienced in the lab. Surprisingly, it’s even something pleasant for him, and he doesn’t feel ashamed and stressed at all.

But for now, as soon as their fingers intertwine, Kyo blissfully closes his eyes while enjoying being embraced by Iori.

In the end, the Kusanagi can swear that the rain slowly soothes his scars from the past when he is being held by this man.

Back to the present.

Eventually, the storm finally calms down.

Suddenly, the Kusanagi’s struggling, and his sleepy voice returns the redhead to his senses. “What is it with you? Did you have a nightmare or something?”

Apparently, when Iori was staring out the window, he didn’t notice how he wrapped his arms around Kyo.

While Iori refuses to let him go, he replies. “Nothing. Just been thinking about something. So, go back to sleep.”

“And you need to use me as a plush toy for that?” The brunette genially asks.

However, he receives no answers, only having his head pressed against his partner’s chest.

Some time passed. It’s the beginning of the next day.

When Kyo gets up, the first thing is checking through the window. After noticing the view outside for a couple of minutes, he covers his face with one palm and fixes his hair upon remembering certain events. “You idiot…”

Perhaps yesterday, Iori saw the same rain as that one time.

After Iori carefully lowers the supposed-to-be Kyo, he growls without removing his gaze from his opponent. "The hell with you!… Kyo is mine!" Lastly, he stands up and turns on his saber blade.

When the redhead turns his head towards Shingo, he orders, "Stay out of this, got it?"

Yet, the younger brunette objects, "But we may defeat him easier if we team up, Yagami-san."

"I said, DO NOT INTERFERE! Just keep Kyo safe, you fucking idiot!" Iori briefly retorts. Finally, he rushes at his new opponent while Shingo only silently stares.

Meanwhile, the dark soldier places their hand on the helmet’s side and speaks up. “Dad, can you hear me? These two guys refuse to cooperate. What should I?-”

Suddenly, this person dodges Yagami’s attack.

“Is everything alright?” Kurama’s voice asks while the black soldier blocks the upper slash.

“I’m… Yeah. It’s just… All I need is to defeat these two types. So, wait for me, Dad… Over.” The mysterious person replies while evading and counter-attacking each Iori’s strike.

For sure, such an arrogant attitude only boils the redhead’s rage, and he uses more heavy slashing.

However, he notices the dark Imperial troop’s movement is as agile and graceful yet deadly as the original’s.

There are moments when Yagami doubts if it’s brainwashed Kyo.

After all, this soldier aims not to kill his opponent but to knock him out or injure him.

Suddenly, Iori widens his eyes as he blocks the enemy’s lower cut. Even while their blade clashes, his heartbeat becomes rapid and loud.

More so, he cannot read what kind of face his opponent has behind the platinum helmet with intimidating, sharp fangs. All he can see is the colorful sparkles reflecting on the metal mask.

When the black soldier lowers his blade, Iori uses his chance and aims at the open torso.

Unfortunately, his strike is blocked.

“Give up. You have no chance against me. Besides, you are just a waste of my and Dad’s time.” This troop calmly addresses him as he picks up the laser gun and points it against Iori’s forehead.

However, the redhead only lowers his head. “We’ll see about that.”

When he drops his saber blade, he reveals his bare fangs and picks up the pistol. “Eat this!”

Suddenly, as the metal helmet and body armor explode and shatter into pieces, the soldier screams in a too-high-pitched voice for a guy.

For now, Iori only observes how his opponent hits the ground.

“It… it hurts!” The soldier speaks up in a pitiful, feminine voice while shakily covering their face with the palm.

The first thing Yagami notices is that this wobbling person has slightly longer hair than Kyo, a rather curvy, slim figure, wearing a torn in several places body suit.

Lastly, Iori freezes in the same spot and remains speechless when the mysterious person removes their palm from their face. “The fuck is this?”

Apparently, it’s a female Kyo clone. When she wipes the dripping blood from her forehead and lifts her head, she adds. “You won’t get away with this.”

Yagami only cracks a smile as he approaches the clone. “This is where you are wrong, bitch.”

When he places his palm on the brunette’s shoulder, he chuckles. A second later, he punches her stomach. “Know your place, you filthy trash!”

While the poor replica covers her stomach and shakily breathes, she refuses to cry and show weakness in front of this cruel man. For now, she only painfully stares at the redhead.

Yet, Iori shows no mercy. After he grabs the female clone by her throat, he lifts her. “Look at you. You’re disgusting and shouldn’t be born at all. It’s all your fault. I don’t care if you are a woman. You’ll die like the rest of your kind!”

Meanwhile, Shingo only observes in terror how his partner is about to take another life while hugging the pale, unconscious Kusanagi.

“I don’t want this… No, I don’t want to see anyone dying on me. Not anymore.” The brunette soldier thinks to himself, as he cannot remove his eyes from the struggling clone who desperately clings to her life. In the end, he closes his eyes and turns his head away.

In the meantime, the female replica holds onto Iori’s wrists while her throat is under pressure. She's aware that her death may be near. Despite that, she says in a weak voice. “Because… because of you… I’ll upset Dad… Dad… Dad will be sad… I… I… won’t forgive you!”

When Iori notices that this clone doesn’t have a metal plate on her forehead like other replicas, he shakes his head and grins. “You should be thankful to me. At least you know when you die.” And thus, he activates his saber blade. “Rot in hell!”

Suddenly, the laser bullet closely flies to his face, and he freezes in the same spot. As he drops the struggling brunette, he hears a voice behind him. “Enough! I will not stand this any longer, Yagami-san!”

As the ferocious redhead approaches him, Yabuki adds while grinding his teeth. “Too many innocent people died in vain death… and all because of you and your blind rage! I can bet my life that Kusanagi-san would also hate you now! Wake up. YOU BECOME A MONSTER, YAGAMI-SAN!”

It was the last drop of Iori’s patience. Now, he grabs Shingo by his uniform and brings him closely. “What did you just say to me? Repeat it one more time, you little dipshit!”

Shingo only replies while having nothing to lose. “Do it. I’m not afraid of you. I know that you just shake off my corpse. Then, you gonna murder these two and aimlessly go after another victim until you’ll get killed by another bloodthirsty killer like you.”

“What are you talking about? It’s Kyo, and he is going with me.” Iori briefly backfires.

Meanwhile, the female clone only sits on her knees and hugs herself while regaining breath. “Leave Nii-sama alone, you freak!”

Yet, she refuses to give up and weakly approaches them.

After Iori turns his head and glares at this replica, he immediately turns back upon hearing the pale brunette groaning.

In the end, the supposed-to-be Kusanagi’s heir shakily opens his eyes.

Yet, both Resistance Force soldiers are in deep disbelief after noticing how Kyo’s eyes glow in crimson color.

“Nii-sama!” the wounded brunette addresses him while making her way through to hug her sibling.

“Everything gonna be alright, Nii-sama. Soon we’ll see Dad and the three of us will live happily forever and after.” She continues comforting the other clone, who isn’t aware of his surroundings or understands anything.

Meanwhile, Iori is still in denial. “The hell? Who is that freak? Why he is not Kyo? Did I come all the way here just to see another trash?” As he clenches his hands into fists, he lowers his head.

Fortunately, this time Shingo notices his partner’s actions. And thus, before Yagami raises his blade, he sends a harsh slap across his face.

For now, he calmly adds. “Please, don’t, Yagami-san. We’re going to report about it to the Headquarters. What if they may help you? No, to help us find Kusanagi-san’s whereabouts. Believe it or not, but I, like everyone else, want to save Kusanagi-san and see him again.”

Certainly, it was a good wake-up call for Iori, who is still shocked. Soon enough, he returns to his senses. Yet, he only turns around and keeps his hands in his pants pockets. “Do as you wish… But it’s your fault if they will choke you in your dreams.”

Lastly, Shingo extends his hand to these clones. “I know nothing about you. However, all I know is that you want to live as much as anyone else. And that is enough for me.”

Yet, the female clone hits his hand and backfires. “Stay away! I won’t let you hurt Nii-sama! Just you wait until dad shows up! He’ll punish you for bullying us!”

Meanwhile, Iori rolls his eyes and face-palms. “This ain’t going anywhere, you fucking idiot. Why do I have to do everything by myself?”

Poor Yabuki is confused about what to do. He even keeps his palms away from these replicas. “Um… well, I. I mean, we won’t hurt you. All we want is to help you. I… I promise that guys in the Resistance will treat you well. And we are also looking for your dad. So, we are the Good Guys, I guess...”

“I warn you. Back off before I punch you!” This artificial creature replies while giving a fierce, protective gaze.

Suddenly, Yagami makes his way and parts the clones. “You’re so annoying, you stupid woman!”

When he pushes the resisting brunette to lie on her stomach, he holds her wrists behind her back.

For now, he turns his head to Shingo and orders. “Give me your jacket.”

Meanwhile, this replica continues to struggle and gives an indignant look. “Let me go, you ugly bastard! Get off me! Or else you gonna regret it.”

Yet, Shingo doubts his partner. “Yagami-san, do you really need to do this? She clearly doesn’t like this.”

“No shit, huh? And you were happy when she attacked us? Just hurry up, and do it.” Iori replies while ignoring the struggling clone’s threats.

In the end, Yabuki sighs and follows the command. “I’m sorry. So, please, don’t get mad at me because I have no other choice. All I want is to help you two.”

When he hands his jacket to the redhead, Iori uses it as a rope and ties the replica’s hand. After he throws the brunette over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes, this look-alike demands. “Don’t you dare? Do not think of doing it! No… Put me down! I said, put me down and untie me!”

However, Iori remains unaffected by such indignant demands when she kicks him back. For now, he only rolls his eyes, checking that the brunette doesn’t fall. “Say what you want, but you’re going with us. Then you can tell us about your father from all your heart’s content.” After he walks, he prompts Shingo to take the other clone with him and leave this place.

On their way, Yabuki contacts the Headquarters and tells them about the underground laboratory, cloning, and that they are not coming back alone.

Some time passes. Somewhere in the vast of the galaxy. While Iori chills in the pilot seat, he comments. “It’s unusually peaceful here. Did that stupid clone finally snap out?”

Instead of saying anything, Shingo remains silent without interfering. After all, his presence will be ignored again.

After Iori turns to see what is happening in the backseat, he sees how a male replica of Kyo is dozing while the restrained brunette sits back and turns her head away.

“Not only you took the wrong spaceship, but you also heading the wrong direction. You know, it’s only the matter of time when dad will find you. So, I’m not afraid of you and I’ll stay strong for him.” She replies while lowering her gaze and refusing to face the redhead.

Yagami only cracks a smile. “Do you still believe in that? Whatever suits you. But soon you’ll speak differently when you realize that you were used by him to get his job done.”

As the brunette faces him, her eyes burn with determination. “You’re wrong! Unlike you, dad is a very kind and strong person. I know that he’ll come and when I’ll show him that Nii-sama is with me, I’ll make him happy. Then, I’ll finally become dad’s bride and I could show him how much I adore him. So, just you wait and see!”

After Yagami face-palms, he murmurs. “Sure you will… Just what the hell are these sickos up to? And why do they need Kyo?”

For now, he understands that if he wants to get actual information about his former partner; he has to befriend this artificial creature before finishing her.

When Iori brushes the hair from his face, he addresses the female clone. “Listen up. You’re not going to see him soon. However, once you’re recovered, we’ll bring you and your precious brother to your father. Any problems with that?”

The brunette only makes big eyes and dumbfounded stares. “What do you mean?”. After a momentary pause, the artificial creature’s eyes sparkle with excitement. “Oh… I see! But don’t you think that you’ll make me like you more, mister. You’re just slightly better than your friend. So, don’t set your hopes high, got it?”

In the end, the redhead returns to his seat and wonders. “If any of these clones are as intelligent as a child, what shady works or services they are trained for? After all, they cannot be just biological weapons.”

But for now, Yagami rests his head behind his hands and closes his eyes.

Another year, and another tournament King of Fighters has been announced. However, if it wasn’t for Kyoko participating this year, one redhead wouldn’t show any interest in that.

More so, this year, she had no other choice than team up with the other two Sacred Treasures. Otherwise, Kagura may have nagged her to death about the importance of their mission to stop the great evil known as Orochi from causing havoc and the world’s destruction.

Therefore, it cannot be helped. If that is the only way to catch a break and settle her business with her long-time rival, Ioriko has to do it.

By far, until reaching the finals, everything went smoothly. And thus, the redhead is convinced this is just a waste of time. Unfortunately, the very little she knows is that everything will change soon, and not how she is expecting.

There is still plenty of time before the next match. Yet, there is something that Ioriko needs to investigate to make sure that it’s only a coincidence.

That’s right, after briefly spotting one familiar blonde nun in the crowd, she widens her eyes and freezes in the same spot.

Of course, it can be just her imagination playing tricks on her. After all, the dead do not walk on this Earth.

Yet, that ominous presence alone tells there is no mistake - it is one of Orochi’s most loyal servants. It’s not important how she got there. But what the hell is she doing here?

When the Hakkesshu woman stops walking and turns around, she smirks, and her blue eyes give an inviting look for her opponent before she disappears into the crowd.

Suddenly, the redhead tries to reach for her “WAIT!”. However, there is no answer nor the sigh of the nun.

Therefore, she must chase the mysterious woman. More so, there is no time to waste on looking for her teammates and tell about this encounter. More importantly, she cannot let Kyoko get involved in this, not this time.

She won't let her rival stick her nose into the business where she shouldn’t interface and worry for no reason again. Or so Yagami thinks while grinding her teeth and desperately searching for the Hakkesshu woman’s traces.

Several minutes pass by. Finally, the redhead reaches a more desolate place and notices one nun leaning against the tree.

After the blonde lifts her head, she gives a calm, yet at the same time piercing look “Oh my… what do we have here? Did you come all this way just to see me?”.

“What the hell you’re doing here? Aren't you supposed to be dead? Either way, I’ll put you back to your grave!” Or so Ioriko asks as she approaches her opponent.

When the blonde gracefully pushes her hands from behind and takes a step forward, she politely replies “My my, biting into a hand that wants to help you to get into a straight path… Fret not. I’m only here as a bystander to observe the inevitable. ”.

As Yagami frowns and bares her nails, she growls “The hell with you and you bullshit!”.

Meanwhile, Goeniko is not affected by Ioriko’s intimidating stance and keeps her proud look “Don’t worry, soon, very soon you will be awakened, my dear child.”.

“What are you!?-” Unfortunately, Ioriko’s speech is interrupted by the ringing heartbeat inside her head and an awful headache. As Yagami widens her eyes and covers her eye, her voice trembles “Shit… why… why it must happen now!?”.

While her vision synchronically dyes in red within each heartbeat, she only trembles in great pain. When she covers her mouth with her palm, the blood gushes through the gaps.

Meanwhile, the blonde stands close to her and remarks on the suffering creature in front of her “It already began. Don’t resist to it, embrace it. Accept the orochi blood running in you veins!”. When she strokes Yagami’s hair, she declares “Now, go and fulfil you fate. Then, we shall meet again.”.

Despite slowly losing consciousness and her corrupted bloodline taking control, she still sees Goeniko walking away with noble elegance. Lastly, the blonde raises her hand and disappears with the whirlwind.

At the last moment, Ioriko sees the last ray of light, which appears as Kyoko. Yet, she doesn’t question it and desperately tries to grasp it and calls her name. Unfortunately, this warm illusion instantly shatters. And thus, she is swallowed by the darkness, and the creature deep inside takes over her place.

In the end, Ioriko howls like a ferocious beast while baring fangs and claws. And thus, once the bright, festive mood in the air is silenced and replaced by the fear and despair spread by the red demon wielding a corrupted flame.

Some time passes by. Finally, the blood riot leaves Yagami's body. Unfortunately, it has strong withdrawal effects.

Suddenly, the redhead groans and grimaces in pain as the wave of terrible, burning ache spreads all over her body. Even so, she is too weak to move a single muscle.

Strangely, this is something new, and usually, when Ioriko’s cursed blood calms down, she doesn’t feel anything aside from a mild headache, nor remember anything.

But for now, Ioriko sits and slowly opens her eyes to look around. However, it doesn’t take long enough to realize who is responsible for the countless heavily injured people and the ones with either missing various limbs or still smoking corpses under the buildings' ruins.

Was it all done by her hands? Why no one didn't stop her? Or so the redhead wonders while wandering around.

After looking down, she notices a glass shard reflecting her being covered in red and cinder and her tattered outfit. More so, she is indifferent while her eyes are dimmed.

After she closes her eyes, she sighs “Well, whatever. I need to get out of here. That idiot is probably in the hospital too. So, I need to find her.”.

As she opens her eyes and stares in the distance, she widens her eyes while her palms are shaking “Kyo… Kyoko…”. Lastly, she rushes towards the unconscious woman leaning against the building’s wall.

After the redhead kneels next to her rival, she brings her body closer to her.

For sure, seeing the once energetic and arrogant brunette whose eyes always sparkle with life and passion as nothing more than a broken, weak doll, is hard for Ioriko. More importantly, the little flame in her captivating amber eyes is dimmed and dull.

Right now, Yagami’s heart aches by knowing that these heavy injuries are done by her hands.

Despite that Kyoko puts her remaining strength to extend her trembling hand and stroke Ioriko’s cheek while giving her a comforting smile “You are back… I’m so glad that it worked… It’s… it’s okay… it’s okay… You are safe now… No one will… no one will hurt anymore.”.

“Don’t speak, you fool!… You must save your strength now. Shit… we need to leave!” Or so the redhead objects while the Kusanagi woman keeps the same smile.

“Hey, you know… I kinda feel sleepy. So, let me… let me rest for a bit. But as soon as I wake up, let’s have…. have another match together, Yagami.” Or so the brunette manages to reply before her life thread is cut.

While Ioriko observes her rival in denial, she suddenly hugs her and closes her eyes. When she weeps, she lifts her head and screams “KYYYOOOOOOOOKOOOOOOO”.

Somewhere in another time and place. Suddenly, the red-haired woman wakes up and sits on the bed.

When she leans forward, she grasps her bloating chest and deep breathes. For now, through the placed palm, she can feel how her heart can break her ribcage with such a violent, loud heartbeat.

As soon as Ioriko begins to calm down and settle down in this world, she realizes she is in a dark room. She is uncertain if that is another dream or is this reality. Without wasting time, she turns to the side and stretches her arm to reach the light switch.

However, when she lands on something soft, which starts to murmur and struggle under her, the redhead stops moving.

“What is it? Get off me.” Or so the sleepy voice under Yagami speaks up.

After a certain brunette notices frightened Ioriko, she sits up and gives a genially concerned look “Hey, did anything happened? You look terrible”.

The redhead only turns her head away while she rests on her partner’s lap “Nothing. You’re just imagining stuff.”.

“You’re lying.” Kyoko instantly comments. After almost a minute lasting pause, she breaks the silence “Then, tell me this again but facing me, Yagami.”.

However, Ioriko only lowers her gaze “You worry too much, idiot. ...It’s fine now.”. Suddenly, she widens her eyes and frowns as her partner strokes her hair “Oi, the hell you’re doing? Or do you have a death wish, you fool?”.

After Ioriko turns her head and leans on her elbows, she tries to keep an indignant look on her face. Unfortunately, it’s a difficult task when your rival gives a warm look and smiles.

“Whatever. The weather outside might be fine. Besides, I need to get some fresh air.” Or so the redhead adds as she gets up and walks towards the closet. While her partner gives a dumbfounded look, Yagami adds while she picks a couple of bathrobes “What are you doing? You’ll catch a cold if you stay in this. So, you’re going with me.”.

When Ioriko tosses one of the picked pieces of clothing, Kyoko picks it up and hugs it before putting it on. Lastly, the redhead walks towards the bedside and extends her hand. After the brunette takes it, Ioriko helps her to stand up, and both walk outside.

In the end, both gals end up star gazing and enjoying each other’s company. No matter how it’s hard to admit for Yagami, she is secretly relieved and glad that what she saw earlier was nothing more than a twisted dream. More so, the brunette leaning on her shoulder is the needed proof.

But for now, Ioriko turns to face Kyoko and places her palms on her throat while keeping her poker face.

This gesture surprises the brunette, who only gives a questioning look “Yagami?”.

Instead of saying anything, the redhead only fixates her eyes on the amber ones and moves her hands on her cheeks. Suddenly, she pulls Kyoko into a tight hug and closes her eyes while confessing in a shivering voice “Just never die on me! I won’t forgive you if dare to do that, got it? That’s all I ask for.”.

In the end, the Kusanagi woman closes her eyes and wraps her arms around Ioriko’s shoulders “I understand. It’s a promise, then.”. Even the moon shining above gives his silent blessings to this couple at this serene moment.

Several minutes pass. After the terrific screams and insane laughter ceased, the massacre is over. Or so the junior soldier assumes.

When he opens his eyes, he notices that the entire laboratory already looks like it after the powerful storm. Expect all that is done by the army of one man.

A second later, Shingo nearly jumps from his seat after hearing how footsteps getting louder. Soon, the redhead smeared in blood from head to toe looks down on him as an emotionless doll.

However, the brunette spots something behind his partner’s back. That naked body still weakly fights for its life and cries for help.

Suddenly, Iori brings Kyo’s clone next to him and holds it in front of him. Despite this poor creature grimacing in pain and whining, the redhead addresses the junior soldier in an exhausted voice ‘‘This is your last chance. Take responsibility.’’.

However, Yabuki does not know what Yagami is talking about and doesn’t know how to respond.

After a pause, the redhead demands ‘‘Pull the trigger. Now!’’.

Lastly, as the brunette stares at the begging clone, he shakes his head and objects in a nervous voice ‘‘No. I won’t do this! Please, do not make me do this. What if he is Kusanagi-san?’’.

Unfortunately, such an answer dissatisfied Iori, and when he lowers his head, he grids his teeth. ‘‘So, this is how it is. Coward…’’ Yagami spits out in a hateful tone.

Suddenly, he pushes Kyo’s look-alike and grabs his light-saber. One sudden move and the poor homunculus is cut in half.

As the corpse lands on Shingo, the redhead addresses him without showing mercy ‘‘Tsk. Let’s move on already.’’. When Iori turns around and wanders into the lab, the brunette remains frozen in the same spot as a cold body is pressing against him.

He is still in disbelief at how cruel his partner can become, why Kusanagi-san teamed up with him, and how he can stand this behavior.

However, instead of wondering any longer, Shingo closes his eyes and apologizes to the clone before carefully removing it and placing it on the ground. After standing up, he looks for the redhead.

Lastly, he finds Iori at the end of the laboratory and looks down at something. After looking closer, he notices a ladder leading to the lower floor.

‘‘We’re going in.’’ The redhead speaks up.

‘‘But what if there is nothing there? We are going to waste our time, Yagami-san.’’ The brunette politely objects.

Unfortunately, his words don’t reach his partner, who shakes his head and climbs down.

Such reckless behavior makes Shingo concerned, and he tries again to over-talk his partner ‘‘W-wait, Yagami-san! Should we report this to the Headquarters?’’. In the end, he is ignored. But he has no other choice than to follow the stubborn soldier.

After a while, the Resistance soldiers reach the bottom. Yet, the redhead gets alerted upon landing on something soft, wet, and squishy.

After looking around, Iori realizes both are in a corridor covered in flesh and intestines. Of course, such a scenery perturbs him, yet he is more determined that Kyo is waiting for him, and nothing else should matter to him.

On the other hand, the junior soldier is convinced that this place is not worth exploring because he can sense that something vile may attack them.

Although, instead of begging Yagami to listen to him and return to the base, Shingo understands it will be a useless effort. Yet, he cannot turn back and leave Iori to die alone. After all, Kusanagi-san would be upset to learn that his old-time partner was left to rot in the enemy base.

The further they go, the brunette realizes they might be wandering in the basement where are disposed the dead or defective testing subjects.

Yet, Yabuki feels bad for them because not only they were treated in the most inhumane ways but also how they lost the privilege to be buried before their eternal rest.

Even when he glances at these bloody lumps of meat and internal organs pulsing, he closes his eyes and shrugs. He isn’t sure whether he is more scared of what he sees or of the idea that even after these clones are dismembered, their remains are alive.

In any case, the brunette understands he needs to keep going.

The deeper they go, the more it feels like wandering inside a huge macro-organism. Even time from time, one of the glands of the wall aimlessly squirts stomach acid.

However, as a single droplet lands on the redhead’s uniform, he stops walking and exhales. Suddenly, he picks up his trustworthy saber and activates it. Lastly, as he slashes one gland, he remarks “You’re so annoying... STAY QUIET!”.

When the blood splashes like a stream next to Iori, a high-pitched scream can be heard in the distance.

Meanwhile, Shingo widens his eyes in terror and gasps as the several rising arms cling to his legs and slowly sink him into the meat floor. While the fear paralyzes the brunette’s body, he looks at the Iori “Ya-Yagami-san! Wh-what have you done!?”.

However, instead of picking the saber blade to cut the ferocious limbs, Shingo picks the handheld gun in both hands and aims at his partner.

For sure, the redhead only widens his eyes as the laser bullet flies next to him. Lastly, the spurted arm falls next to him. All he can do is dumbfounded stare at the rookie soldier and move his gaze down to the twitching fallen limb.

As soon as the brunette shoots all the arms crawling up to him, he runs as fast as his legs allow him. In the end, he grabs his partner by his uniform jacket and drags him together forward to the end of the corridor.

Some time passes by. Finally, this couple reaches the dead-end, which is a spacious meat cave. The only difference between this place and the corridor is that the pulsing sound resembles the loud heart of an enormous beast. More so, the large smooth lump of meat is the source of this sound.

‘‘This is it. If Kyo is inside of this creature, then I have to cut it and save him.’’ Or so Iori thinks to himself as he picks up his saber blade again and approaches his enemy.

However, as the redhead raises his blade and is about to slash this creature, the giant skinless palm spurts and sends him flying until he hits the wall.

‘‘Ya…YAGAMI-SAN!’’ Shingo screams for his partner, who shakily stands up while ignoring his pain.

Although, the brunette falls to his knees as soon as the beast’s heartbeat ceases. Soon enough, he only shakily stares at the countless eyes open up on the walls, which look at their prey.

After these eyes are closed, the giant piece of meat drowns in the living flesh.

Suddenly, the ground shakes, and the new creature emerges. Apparently, it is a few meters tall, a skinless humanoid with melting meat from its distorted face and body. Even if its arms and the rest of the body below the ribcage remain buried in the flesh floor, the least of these Resistance soldiers’ concerns is how tall their enemy is.

While the brunette screams in terror and crawls back, his partner dashes with his sword at this monster.

Unfortunately, just before impact, the giant palm appears from the ground and slaps the redhead like a bug. A second later, the same hand grabs its victim and brings it close to the monster’s face. Lastly, as this thing opens its mouth and is about to swallow the struggling Iori.

Instead of meeting a horrible fate, the redhead is dropped on the ground as the colossal monster lets out a painful screech.

When Yagami forces himself to half sit and lifts his head, he dumbfounded stares at this creature covering its injured eyed with its palm.

Even so, the infuriated beast’s fist aimlessly smashes the ground.

At this point, Yabuki doesn’t feel how he stands up and runs. All that matters to him is to leave this place together. He understands he may get crushed by this mutant. Yet, the brunette doesn’t want anyone to die in vain because of him.

Kusanagi-san would be upset to learn that his long-time partner had recklessly perished. So, at least Yagami-san needs to survive and leave this hell. That is all Shingo thinks as he rushes to the redhead’s side.

In the end, the brunette picks up and lightens his saber blade. After he closes his eyes, he yells while slashing the monster’s hand.

After the cut body part hits the meat floor, the flesh mutant lets out an agonizing high-pitched scream. For now, this creature covers its bleeding limb while closing its remaining eye.

Meanwhile, Iori realizes this creature may not last long. Not after keep losing that much blood. Therefore, he has a perfect chance to slit its neck and finish it.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes as his arm is thrown on the brunette’s shoulder and takes him away from the battlefield.

‘‘Ya…Yagami-san? Are you okay? Any… anywhere injured? Hang in there! Just a little bit… Just a little bit, and we should escape this place.’’ Or so Shingo addresses the other soldier through panting.

Yet, the redhead only grids his teeth and clenches his hands into fists. When they leave the room, Iori bends his elbow and strikes the junior soldier’s guts ‘‘Don’t interface, you fool!’’. Lastly, without looking back or showing any concern for Shingo, he pushes the brunette away.

‘‘Yagami-san…’’ Or so, Yabuki manages to speak up while all he can do is stare at his partner rushing to the battlefield. Although he tries his best to ignore his pain and follow the redhead.

After Iori enters the room, he notices that the flesh mutant is not as hostile as before. However, he is not affected by its weeping and howling. Step after step, the redhead approaches his target.

Even so, the monster does what it can to defend itself from this pesky human. After the countless pores on its head open up, it shoots the corrosive acid.

However, Yagami’s reflexes are quicker, and he dodges the sent attack. ‘‘What’s wrong? Do you want to die that badly? Fine, I’ll grant your wish.’’ He mocks this creature as the acid burns the flesh floor.

Without wasting a second, Iori jumps as high as his strength allows and stabs the monster in the heart’s area. Lastly, when he lands on his feet, the beast lets out a final scream as it collapses.

Meanwhile, the Resistance soldiers observed how the flesh and organs melt from this creature’s bones. Eventually, the bones sink into the meat floor, leaving nothing but a human-sized cocoon covered in dark purple flesh.

As the flesh layer gets torn, Iori widens his eyes and speaks up in a barely hearable, desperate voice ‘‘Kyo…’’. While Shingo is speechless in the view in front of them.

Apparently, this naked sleeping figure curled into a ball resembles one familiar Kusanagi heir. Despite being covered in blood, he has unusually pale skin.

With no further hesitation, Yagami rushes. After kneeling close to him, he takes him into his arm ‘‘KYO!’’. However, the Kusanagi’s body is still warm, and Iori even manages to grasp the pulse. Even after pressing his ear against Kyo’s chest, he hears weak breathing.

‘‘Wake up, Kyo!’’ Unfortunately, the redhead’s voice doesn’t reach him. No matter how hard Iori shakes his shoulders or slaps him, there is no response.

Meanwhile, Shingo only stares at them without being able to move. More so, he isn’t sure which is more stunning, reuniting with Kusanagi-san or how someone as merciless as Iori is vulnerable.

However, the sudden voice behind this trio makes Iori and Shingo alert ‘‘Leave Nii-sama alone!’’.

After turning back, these two notice the soldier in black body armor and shiny metal helmet. Lastly, this person points with the crimson saber blade at them ‘‘Handle him to me, and I may reconsider leaving alive.’’. And thus, a real battle is still ahead of them.

Somewhere, near abandoned storage. One tanned brunette wearing dark uniform pants, a long open coat, and instead of a proper top, this woman wrapped a medical bandage to cover her bust, enjoys the sunlight on the ‘‘borrowed’’ foldable bed from the nearest neighborhood.

It’s difficult when you are a Big Sis who takes care of your adopted siblings. Besides, these Kyoko clones weren’t as troublesome as they seemed.

Therefore, ‘Nagi-chan claims that she deserves at least a break for her hard effort in raising the twins on her own and bringing the bread home.

After all, she discovered them hiding near the NESTS’ ruins a couple of years ago. Poor girls were shielding each other while trembling in fear. Even if they were wounded and feeling cold, they gave their gaze to the tanned woman like a warning that if one of them was hurt or threatened, they won’t hesitate to attack.

However, Kusanagi wasn’t affected by such behavior and took them with her as if she was a mother cat carrying her cubs.

At first, the siblings doubted the red-eyed woman who took them to the abandoned storage. Although, as time passed, the dark-skinned brunette won their trust and love by offering water, food, and shelter from the rain and wind. The clones even received something the rest of their kind could never dream of - they finally got names and not just being called by the lab numbers.

Kusanagi even got everything they wanted - warm clothes and other necessities to live like a normal person. Lastly, she convinced the clones that she won’t disown them nor allow anyone to harm them like these scientists and other terrible men, including the red demon who wields the purple flame.

And thus, Mero and Hoki finally found a loving home where their adored Big Sis protects them.

But for now, ‘Nagi-chan’s peaceful slumber is disturbed by the familiar voice ‘‘Big Sis! This is terrible! The… the red-haired woman is chasing us, and she almost got Hoki. What… what should we do?’’.

As the tanned brunette stretches, she addresses the clone in a blue sailor uniform ‘‘Red-haired one, you say? Where is she, Mero?’’.

‘‘Big Sis, that is the same demon with the purple flames. We thought she died during the NESTS accident, but she lived! We won’t stand a chance! So, we should run before it’s too late.’’ The other replica objects.

Yet, Kusanagi only gives the smuggest face she can make ‘‘Are you thinking that your Big Sis is weak and cannot handle one pesky woman?’’.

After Hoki lowers her gaze, she explains ‘‘That’s not what we are saying… But that demon is dangerous and scary. Not only does she kill most of us, but when she howls like a wolf, you know you are screwed. She even broke the steel gate as if it was nothing while screaming the Original’s name!’’.

While the tanned brunette rubs her chin, she playfully comments ‘‘If that so? Hmm, perhaps, I can play with her.’’. Lastly, she addresses the twins in a serious tone ‘‘Hoki, Mero, I need you to stay inside the home and do not open the door to anyone until I say it is safe, got it?’’.

In the end, clones believe in their beloved ‘Nagi because when she makes such a face, none of her targets can escape their punishment. However, very little do the twins realize that Kusanagi allows no one to leave the battlefield until they are dead or get tortured until they become living meat.

‘‘Leave it to us, Big Sis!’’ the replica in blue replies with sparkling excitement in her eyes, and her sister adds ‘‘We’ll protect our home from any intruders.’’.

In the end, ‘Nagi-chan throws one arm around Mero and another one around Hoki and pulls them into a tight hug ‘‘That’s my girls! Your big sis will beat the shit out of that big bad wolf and bring your something nice.’’.

After reaching the old construction site, the dark brunette spots a new challenger and, possibly, the bully of the clones. The redhead wears an open-chest red blouse with long sleeves and white pants and has a silver necklace with a crescent moon. More so, that woman seems to be anxiously searching for someone.

Therefore, Kusanagi makes her pompous entrance “Oi, red onee-chan! You seem to be lost? Or is it me you’re looking for?~”.

It makes the red-haired woman turn towards the fool who asks for the trouble. Yet, Ioriko widens her eyes when she notices ‘Nagi-chan. Even from her flaring eyes alone, she can tell that it isn’t just ordinary Kyoko’s look-alike. Lastly, Yagami shifts to the defense position without removing her eyes from Kusanagi.

Such a reaction amuses the brunette who boldly approaches her opponent “What’s the matter? Did I scare you? Hey, you don’t have to, you know~”.

“What a hell do you want, you stupid woman? And where are these pesky brats?” Ioriko indignantly asks as she could attack any moment.

After the tanned woman places her hand under the redhead’s chin and strokes her cheek, she gives a suggestive look “Ho~ So, this little lady is the one who bothers the clones? Do you know how many you upset? That is not very nice, you know.”.

Suddenly, Yagami brushes away her opponent’s hand while she growls “The hell with you!”.

“Calm down, alright? You don’t have to fret like this. All I want is to play with you, red demon-chan~” ‘Nagi-chan replies as she gently slaps Ioriko’s cheek. Lastly, the dark-skinned woman whispers something while seductively winking.

It is the last drop of the redhead’s patience, and she doesn’t hold back any longer. Unfortunately, Kusanagi catches her fist and strikes with the knee into the redhead’s stomach.

Suddenly, Ioriko gasps in pain as her opponent’s knee deeply sinks into her. While she holds her belly, she hisses at ‘Nagi-chan ‘‘You bitch…’’.

The brunette only chuckles at her suffering opponent ‘‘I’m flattered that you think I’m that good~ However, how can you be so sure? Unless you want to find it out.’’.

While Kusanagi keeps her hands in the pants pockets, she sends the side-kick ‘‘Unfortunately for you, I’m not into wriggling maggots!’’.

Unfortunately, Ioriko’s blocking is too weak, and she hits the ground. Despite that, the dark-skinned woman doesn’t waste a second and several times stomps on Yagami’s back while mocking her ‘‘Oi, is this all you got? Don’t tell me that I got tricked. Hey… Hey! Get up, I say!’’.

Meanwhile, Ioriko hears how slightly her ribcage got cracked. In the end, ‘Nagi-chan gives her victim a last kick into the side.

At first, the redhead wriggles and groans while she lies on the side. Soon enough, she stops struggling, lowers her head, and relaxes her muscles.

‘‘Aww, don’t tell me that you’re already dead? You’re no fun at all~’’ Kusanagi comments on her fallen prey. Even pointing out the body with her foot doesn’t make Yagami respond. ‘‘And so much for the Red Demon… Even the crackheads and other degenerates who were attempting to hurt my girls were far more entertaining than you.’’ she adds in a disappointed voice while rubbing her nape.

After the brunette squats in front of the not-resisting body, she roughly grabs her by the scalp and yanks her head up. Instead of seeing the struggling face, she notices the lifeless eyes, which aren’t staring back at the executioner.

When ‘Nagi-chan sighs and drops Ioriko’s head, she asks ‘‘Hey, onee-san. Do you smoke?… Oh, wait, it doesn’t matter~ I hope this will reach you in hell. Cheers!’’.

Lastly, the tanned woman picks up a pack of cigarettes. When the tanned woman lightens her finger, she brings the cigarette towards the orange flame. Finally, after dimming the little fire, Kusanagi inhales and releases the gray smoke into Yagami’s face.

Unfortunately, this is where the brute entity makes a fatal mistake.

Suddenly, the clawed hand breaks through the smoke and grasps ‘Nagi-chan’s throat. As the brunette forcibly pushed on her back, she feels how the sharp nails slowly sink into her neck.

Once the mist is gone, shite can see Ioriko bending close to her while holding her throat with her claw. Despite bleeding and facing death, Kusanagi smiles at seeing that piercing and hating gaze.

Lastly, the purple flame bursts from Yagami’s palm and bangs a loud explosion. After standing up, the redhead turns away and removes the dust from her.

At least that should put this lousy woman into her place. Or so, Ioriko thinks as she is about to leave the battlefield. She doesn’t bother anymore to search for the mischievous duo.

Suddenly, the tanned woman’s palm twitches. A second later, the fallen Kusanagi’s silent chuckle grows into a hysterical laugh. When she gets up, she throws away her long coat and addresses her opponent ‘‘We’re not done yet! Not after what you showed to me~’’. Lastly, she ignites her palm.

However, Ioriko ignores her big talk and walks away. Surely, it annoys the brunette, and she sends the fire pillar toward Yagami.

Instead of dodging the attack, Ioriko counter-attacks it by sending back the purple pillar of flame. As the flames clash, it creates another explosion. Soon enough, the entangled flames submerge into the sky.

After the brunette places her hand on her face and lifts her hair, she remarks in an excited tone ‘‘Not bad~ For the woman wielding the corrupted flame, it’s not half bad!’’. After reigniting her hand, she rushes to Yagami.

As Kusanagi dashes at her, the redhead crouches and waits. Just before the impact, Ioriko uses an upper-crescent nail slash. In the end, when the blood splashes from the dark-skinned woman’s chest, she harshly lands on the concrete while letting out an agonizing scream.

Meanwhile, Ioriko wipes the dark crimson liquid from her indifferent face and paints it on her chest.

‘It isn’t worth continuing this fight anymore, nor even starting it. That woman barely sits. Besides, it doesn’t bring as much thrill as facing Kyoko, nor make me alive. Of course, it would be wiser to finish this cheapskate before she causes more problems. Yet, letting her live should be a good lesson for her not to swallow more than she can take. Besides, staining hands with the weakling’s blood will leave a bad after-taste in my mouth.’ Or so, the redhead wonders as she observes the roughly breathing woman who covers her wounds with her arm.

‘‘Not yet… I need more!… I won’t be satisfied until one of us dies. I gonna beat the living shit out of you... Just wait, and you’ll see.’’ ‘Nagi-chan addresses Yagami as she gives a determined look.

However, the redhead ignores her words and looks around for one piece of clothing. After finding the long black coat, she walks in front of the topless brunette and throws it at her ‘‘Lick your wounds first.’’

When she turns her back, Ioriko gives the final gaze to her ‘‘If you are still so desperate to die, I’ll grant your wish. But not soon. Find me during the full moon when you are ready to face me, Kusanagi woman.’’.

After the red-haired woman leaves her alone in the building site, Kusanagi holds the bloody coat to her chest while cracking a smile ‘‘Do not think I’ll forget this so easily. Sparing me was your greatest mistake, Yagami. Next time we meet, you will sing the most beautiful swan song.’’.

When she stands up and heads toward her home, ‘Nagi-chan daydreams about the lifeless red-haired woman covered in the same color liquid as the ground cherry.

The longer Iori and Shingo wander in the endless, silent corridors, the more the redhead feels anxious. He cannot understand why such an enormous place like this is lifeless and unsecured.

Suddenly, Yagami gets alerted as dark shadow dashes behind him. As soon as he turns around, he sees no one. Strange, because he could swear that someone follows them.

However, the brunette’s concerned voice returns him to reality ‘‘Are you okay, Yagami-san?’’.

‘‘Shut up! And mind your own business, you stupid brat.’’ Iori backfires in a grumpy tone. Lastly, he pushes the junior soldier forward to keep him walking.

Some time passes. Aside from countless messy office rooms filled with scattered papers or other trash, the Resistance soldiers found nothing that might be useful or interesting to the Headquarters.

However, some rooms look renewed and even had vending machines with restocked drinks and food.

Despite the temptation to break these machines and relax before continuing their journey, Iori drags Shingo with him.

Who knows, maybe it is only a trap for the intruders. Besides, the redhead has no desire to listen to the complaints that some rookie was stupid enough to die.

The further they proceed, this couple encountered the locked rooms with the most advanced locks and unbreakable steel doors. However, whatever is inside isn’t important at the moment, and Iori decides to revisit these rooms as they come back after discovering the entire facility.

In the end, they finally reach the dead end and spot an old rusty elevator.

Just before the redhead presses one button, he gets stopped by his partner, who politely asks ‘‘Um, Yagami-san? Shouldn’t we just report to the Headquarters and return to the spaceship? Because that thing doesn’t look like it was used for ages and there is nothing we can take.’’.

‘‘No shit, huh? How about we’ll check it by throwing you as the testing dummy?’’ Iori backfires while giving an icy gaze. After pressing up and down buttons, he adds ‘‘What will your Headquarters do? They won’t come here to save you just because you called them. Tsk, let’s just get going, you coward.’’.

Meanwhile, a pair of glowing green eyes shine and observes its new targets in the distant corner.

A few minutes pass, and the elevator finally stops. After the heavy metal door opens, the Resistance Force arrives at the underground laboratory.

This floor isn’t lightened as much as the previous one. The only light source is the countless monitor screens, which constantly update the changing data and lighten up large testing tubes with the green fluorescent color.

More so, from time to time, the bubbling noise from one of the countless tubes and rarely quiet beeping from the monitors are the only sound here.

As a couple of soldiers explore the laboratory, they notice that inside of these tubes grow humanoid figures. Some of them are already resembling full-grown adults. Some - are still immature and hairless. Even their skin is transparent, and all the vessels and internal organs are visible to a bare eye.

There is also a group of artificial creatures that are hybrids of other alien species and humans.

However, this couple does not know whether all testing subjects are alive or hibernated.

Another detail that catches Iori’s and Shingo’s eye is that the most recent group of fully developed humanoids resemble one certain Kusanagi.

After Yagami walks toward one of the replicas and studies it. Just seeing the peacefully resting brunette connected to the wires and feeding tubes boils the redhead’s blood. His hatred for all the Kyo’s look-alikes grows stronger with each second.

While Iori places his palm against the glass, he wonders ‘How much Kyo needed to suffer that these bastards would bring these disgusting creatures to this world? Whoever has done this will never peacefully rest, nor have a day without shrugging in fear and shame. It doesn’t even matter why these abominations were created. Whoever took Kyo away from me will burn in hell!’.

A second later, he lowers his head and grids the teeth as his hand grasps the artificial creature’s chest behind the glass. Lastly, the redhead picks up the lighting saber and stabs the clone.

As the glass shatters and liquid splashes around, the homunculus lets out an agonizing scream and hits the ground. However, Yagami only silently observes the cut and suffering brunette.

‘That creature shouldn’t be alive. It’s not even Kyo, nor look anywhere close to him. So, that’s fine. It’s just a dirty animal. It’s not a big deal. Killing someone who wasn't supposed to be born should be fine. That fucking creature asked for it. Because of this degenerate, Kyo got captured.’ Or so, Iori thinks to himself as he hears the heartbeat ringing in his ears.

For now, he stomps on the wriggling body until the glass shards penetrate the flesh. In the end, the poor clone lets out his last gasp. However, Yagami is unaffected at the slightest and kicks the corpse’s side while taunting “Is that all you got? That’s not even close to your original... Pathetic.”.

Meanwhile, the junior soldier is in shock by not being able to comprehend the sudden redhead’s behavior. Despite that, Shingo knows he must do something.

He is afraid, yet he approaches his partner, who just looks down on Kyo’s look-alike without saying a word. Unfortunately, this is where the brunette makes a mistake.

After Yabuki pats Iori’s shoulder and calls his name, he receives an elbow strike into the guts.

While the brunette groans in pain and holds his hand on his stomach, he dumbfounded looks at Yagami, who gives a cold, piercing glare.

“Do not fucking interface. Just stand in my way and I’ll slay you like a pig.” Iori growls through his teeth as he grips the saber. Lastly, as the redhead slashes through the nearest testing tubes, the bloody massacre of the clones begins.

One after another, the replicas and testing subjects fall by the madman’s blade, who barely resembled a human anymore.

That wild beast is driven by nothing more than bloodlust and vengeance for his enemies, nor it will calm his wrath down. Even if he remains the last one standing on the top of the dead clones and claims his victory, it won’t be enough until he has Kyo back.

Meanwhile, without realizing it, the young soldier fled to hide behind the safest spot he could find. He doesn’t know how long he will be safe behind one of the computers, yet it was still a better choice than nothing.

As Shingo trembles in horror, he closes his eyes and covers his ears. However, he can still hear the Iori’s howling, shattering glass, and the sound of the tearing flesh.

Suddenly, something warm and wet hits him. Hell, whatever it was, it also covered him with the liquid reeking of iron. After the brunette opens his eyes, he screams at the pile of torn internal organs and kicks them away.

In the end, Yabuki hugs himself and desperately begged to anyone to pick him up or wake him up from this terrifying dream.

However, he doesn’t dare to dial the Headquarters and possibly become a disappointment to the Resistance Force again. While Shingo shakily holds his gun, he waits until the murderer soaked in red will come for him next. No matter how he wishes to avoid taking another life, he is ready to do anything to defend himself and stop Iori.

As the splashing blood and guts continue to paint the lab while the primal beast roars and hysterically laughs, the new threat lurks just around the corner. Eventually, the shadow figure reveals its form.

This person wears black body armor and a shiny metal helmet with intimidating closed sharp fangs and a couple of three round spots in the triangle on the eye level. While this soldier carefully observes, they dial someone.

Although, it was hard to tell whether this soldier’s voice belongs to a woman or a man. Yet, as soon as the receiver picks up the call and the holographic image of the scientist appears, the armored person speaks up without holding back the excitement ‘‘Dad, you are here! So, this thing works. I got to the place where Nii-sama is kept. But I encountered one little problem.’’.

‘‘What do you mean? Did anything happen to you?’’ The fluffy silver-haired with the glasses asks in a serious tone.

The black soldier briefly explains ‘‘I’m fine. But I’m not alone. There are other people in this building. One of them is the ferocious red-haired man called - Yagami-san, who destroys everything in his sight. Another one is a lousy, whiny brat. Hey, dad, what should I do? What if they are also after Nii-sama? They’ll ruin your plans. I… I cannot let this happen.’’.

‘‘Calm down!… Listen, I have little time. Can you record and send me what you can see?’’ Kurama patiently replies.

‘‘Y-Yes! Leave it to me, dad!’’ The armored person answers.

Before cutting off the contact, the silver-haired professor bids a farewell while keeping a poker face ‘‘Good. I need to go now. Stay safe, and if anything bad happens, contact me immediately.’’.

After setting the needed program in the helmet, the mysterious soldier thinks ‘‘I’ll make you proud, dad. Just wait for it. Then, you’ll praise me and love me the most.’’. Lastly, as they continue the mission, they patiently wait for the new targets to make one wrong move.

It was already late afternoon, and the sky was nearly dyed in warm orange tones. Even so, the last sunbeams get through the stained-glass of the one local church and make the mosaics of the saints and angels look even more majestic and beautiful.

Finally, the priest closes the evening’s mass with the last word of the prayer. After the people, the priest, and the other nuns left the church, one blonde nun was alone.

Despite that, she still has a lot to do before night, and she skips her duties to have time for herself. After all, there is a saying: ‘‘If you do not take care of yourself, neither God will.’’. So, taking a little break won’t do any harm to anyone.

Besides, the blue-eyed nun believes in a higher-rank deity than the so-called God, who loves and protects those who adore and have faith in them.

But for now, Goeniko sits on the bench, closes her eyes, and exhales. Only being alone in the church can allow you to feel that serene and sacred atmosphere that can help you relax. However, this time she almost dozes out.

Suddenly, a calm voice of a familiar goddess echoes through the church “Falling asleep in the house of God?”.

Even with her eyes closed, Goeniko sees the white, blinding light. Yet, as soon as it appeared, it disappeared instantly.

After the blonde opens her eyes and spots a spirit of the fluffy silver-head, who wears a white, long sleeveless tunic, and under it, there is a visible tattoo of an Orochi clan over her chest. Then, golden wrapped snakes bracelets on each arm, and on the golden necklace, a platinum snake wrapped around it like observing everything.

As the goddess leans against the altar’s wall, she asks in a slightly concerned tone ‘‘Did you get tired during the day?’’.

Yet, the blonde smiles and politely replies “No. Not all. I was just taking a quick break before returning to my duties.”.

As Goeniko stands up and walks towards the altar, she continues addressing the divine being “However, what did I do to deserve to be blessed by your presence, Orochi-sama? You don’t show up without a great reason, am I right?”.

‘‘Do I need a reason to see you?’’ The fluffy silver-haired woman asks.

Of course, these words are not what Goeniko expects, and she widens her eyes and blush. A second later, she closes her eyes and coughs once.

After she opens her eyes and fixes the collar of her outfit, the blue-eyed nun turns her head and slightly shakily replies ‘‘But why would you do it? After all, I’m just a humble servant of yours.’’.

Surely, Orochi is entertained by such a reaction. But instead of teasing her most loyal follower, she takes a step closer and gently brushes Goeniko’s cheek ‘‘Is it wrong to visit someone who has been worshiping and adoring me all these years? You are the first human who doesn’t cowardly cover behind my name by doing horrible things. All you do is protect Gaia by preaching my word and punishing anyone who disrespects or hurts Gaia.’’.

After softening her gaze, she explains further ‘‘No one is even forcing you, and you were only following what your heart tells you to do. That’s why I want to keep an eye on you and protect you from any harm, Goeniko.’’.

In the end, the goddess’s confession leaves the blonde in awe. However, Goeniko objects ‘‘I’m flattered and thrilled that you feel this way, even if I do not deserve it as anyone else who might also give their life for you, or even offer you more than I do, Orochi-sama.’’.

The fluffy silver-haired deity only chuckles and comments ‘‘I don’t think that there is a more dedicated person than you. Even if there is, they are not as precious as you.’’.

After a brief pause, Orochi suggests ‘‘In any case, I’ve noticed that you were working harder than anyone else in this place. So, I decided you deserve more than a brief break. Tomorrow I will take with me on a trip.’’.

‘‘What if anyone sees you? After all, you are not an ordinary person, and I cannot put you into trouble because of me.’’ The blue-eyed nun replies as she directly stares at her idol.

The divine deity assures her ‘‘It won’t harm me to turn into a human just for a single day. Besides, not everyone can sense my presence.’’.

Although, Goeniko asks without hiding her curiosity ‘‘But where are going? It must be an important or sacred place like a shrine about which I’m not aware, isn’t it?’’.

‘‘Close enough. Unfortunately, not. However, I don’t want to ruin a surprise for you.’’ Orochi calmly replies.

Such an answer makes the blonde even more curious and not understand what kind of journey awaits her tomorrow. Yet, she has faith in her adored goddess and, as always, entrusts her body and heart to her.

But for now, she worries about how to leave with no one noticing that she will be gone tomorrow.

It is another day. Fortunately, Goeniko didn’t need a stealthy escape plan because one of the oldest nuns gave her permission to take a day off before continuing her duties at church.

More importantly, the blonde is not used to seeing Orochi in her human form, even if it is like her divine form. However, she is more surprised at how casually her idol dresses and walks among the mere mortals.

Nevertheless, for her, the silver-haired woman still looks stunning in the black sleeveless turtle-neck t-shirt, and on top of it, a shoulder-less blue short-sleeved shirt and a pair of white leggings.

Another surprise for the blue-eyed nun was that instead of saving time and summoning the wind, her idol preferred going on foot.

‘Perhaps, it could be a good chance to learn more about Orochi-sama and get close to her.’ Or so, Goeniko wonders while they are on the way towards the mysterious place.

Meanwhile, Orochi gives an excited gaze when she notices how determined looks her beloved follower.

After a while, the couple reaches the thermal baths. Although, the blonde did not know that the goddess would want to visit a place where only ordinary people go.

However, if this is what Orochi-sama wants, it should be fine. Or so, Goeniko convinces herself.

Of course, the blue-eyed nun is also amazed how the fluffy silver-haired woman’s generosity by bookmarking this whole place just for them.

When the receptionist gives them the keys and shows them the dressing room, the dark-haired woman kindly explains the rules in the thermal baths, swimming pool, and sauna areas and reminding that they can also visit the local cafe. And thus, upon entering the dressing rooms, this pair’s date begins.

Unfortunately, Goeniko hasn’t expected that aside from your worn towel, you do not need to bring anything else, even the underwear. Of course, at first, this detail shocked the blonde, yet maybe this is what she should have expected by going into baths.

Since Orochi only wrapped a towel around her, Goeniko feels more at ease. After all, her dear goddess is by her side. Finally, the blonde can proudly walk and with confidence by realizing it.

After walking in the aquamarine marble corridors decorated with Oriental-style mosaics, the couple arrives at one of the thermal baths.

The blonde hasn’t expected that the enormous octagonal-shaped swimming pool would take up most of the already spacious room. Nor how the swimming pool is surrounded by the dome, which is supported by eight pillars.

Yet, behind her calm face, there is a sparkle of excitement in her eyes.

When they got close to the swimming pool, Goeniko sits on the edge while stirring and carefully splashing the hot water with her feet. For now, she chills there.

However, the sound of the falling cloth makes the blonde turn back. A second later, she widens her eyes and feels how the heat rushes to her cheeks ‘‘Orochi-sama?…’’.

The silver-haired woman removed her towel, and after sitting in the swimming pool, she makes herself comfortable.

For sure, Goeniko is bewildered by seeing her idol acting casually. More importantly, she isn’t sure how to behave in front of the goddess.

No matter how hard Goeniko tries to be reserved, all she can do is cover her mouth while unable to remove her eyes from the woman in front of her.

When Orochi notices the blue-eyed nun’s reaction, she gives a puzzled look ‘‘Is there anything wrong? Are you not feeling fine?’’.

Suddenly, the flustered blonde averts her gaze. As her ears burn from the embarrassment, she defends herself ‘‘No. N-not at all!… I didn’t mean to be this rude and upset you by acting too immature. It’s just that I… Well, it’s not important because it may insult you.’’.

Yet, it piqued the silver-haired woman’s curiosity, and she raises her eyebrow ‘‘If that’s so? Because it looked like you were staring at me.’’.

After getting caught on the spot, Goeniko nervously replies ‘‘Well, I…’’.

When the goddess closes her eyes and sighs, she patiently explains ‘‘I didn’t say that I’m mad at you.’’. Later on, she adds in a comforting tone ‘‘It’s fine. You may admire my body all you want. Besides, I know that you have no bad intentions toward me. So, I can trust you.’’.

Yet, the blonde is silent while lowering her head because Orochi’s words still confuse her. After all, the only thing she expected was to anger the goddess.

Nevertheless, Goeniko feels relieved as something heavy is pushed from her chest. Besides, the blonde gal feels assured that her beloved idol is kind and has faith in her.

That’s why she decides to show her gratitude boldly. Yet, before making her move, the blonde politely asks ‘‘Is it okay if I’ll do something nice for you?’’.

‘‘Sure thing. However, shouldn’t I be the one who should treat you?~’’ The fluffy silver-haired woman asks while giving a suggestive gaze.

After sitting next to her goddess and leaning against her shoulder, the blonde closes her eyes ‘‘You already spoiling me by allowing me to be by your side. So, let me take care of you.’’.

Lastly, Goeniko gently places her hands on Orochi’s shoulders and begins to massage her shoulders.

For sure, seeing how her most adored person blissfully closes her eyes and lets out the purring noises is the most rewarding and pleasant experience for the blonde.

More importantly, Goeniko cannot ask for anything else because nothing in this world could match the satisfying feeling of being this intimate with her adored Orochi-sama.

It’s just another average day for one certain brunette, and nothing seems to stand out by far. Perhaps it is too peaceful.

That is why such a calm afternoon makes Kyoko suspicious and more cautious.

‘‘Something is wrong here. How come that pesky woman hasn’t shown up yet? Usually, it would be a fifth or sixth time when she would try to annoy me with these stupid shenanigans…’’ The Kusanagi complains.

‘‘Maybe she already gave up on me~ Who knows? But I could use it as a hard-earned day-off.’’ She wonders.

Nevertheless, there are more important things at the moment than one redhead. Today, her disciple asked her if they could hang out in the park and show something great.

Therefore, the Kusanagi picked a better outfit for hanging out as her white t-shit, her favorite leather jacket, and jeans.

Lastly, as she puts her biker helmet on, she drives toward the destination place.

After arriving at the park, Kyoko looks around for the younger brunette. Yet, there is no sign of her.

‘‘Strange. Usually, she always comes a nearly whole half hour earlier. Well, maybe she is stuck somewhere and will show up, eventually.’’ The Kusanagi assumes as she wanders around.

After finding a better spot to chill down while waiting, Kyoko sits down against one tree. When the brunette closes her eyes, she enjoys warm sunbeams and a light breeze.

Unfortunately for her, such a blissful and serene break won’t last long. Suddenly, a dark shadow falls on her.

It isn’t Shingomi. So, it can be only that woman, and Kyoko understands that.

Even without opening her eyes, the brunette knows to whom belong that voice ‘‘Here you are, Kyoko! You thought you’ll run away from me, but I finally found you.’’.

After the Kusanagi opens her eyes, she notices one familiar redhead wearing a short skirt, long socks, an open-chested shirt barely covering the bust, and the loosely tied ribbon resting between her breasts. Hell, even on the corners of the cut, you can see her frilled purple bra.

At the moment, Kyoko’s long-time rival stands with her legs spread on top of the sitting Kusanagi.

“I haven’t even tried. Perhaps you just suck even at stalking me. By the way, you are blocking the sun. So, can you move a little more, Yagami?” The Kusanagi replies as she attempts to move away from her.

Such a reply doesn’t satisfy the irritated red-haired woman, and she places her hands on her hips. Now, she states “You won’t go anywhere until we settle this right here, right now!”.

“At least get off me first!” Kyoko asks.

After Yagami takes a step back, the brunette finally stands up and shakes off the dust from her leather jacket and the back of the jeans.

The Kusanagi’s heir comments in a teasing tone “I see someone is as eager as usual~ And when I thought today I won’t need to deal with you...”.

As she thrusts her chest towards her opponent, Kyoko announces with a sparkling excitement in her eyes “Fine! I still have a free time to play with you. If you want me to kick your ass so badly, I’ll gladly do that.”. Lastly, she ignites her palm “But you better not cry when you get burn~”.

“That’s my line, you fool!” Ioriko backfires as she imitates the same movement. Yet, her determined gaze is brighter than the purple flame dancing on her palm.

In the end, both gals synchronically lower their arms and their flames. And thus, after finding a better place, another match between two fierce opponents begins.

One thing is for sure, nothing seems to exist around them anymore. Nor do they care about the surroundings.

The first one strikes the redhead by charging at her foe with one after another nail-slashing. Yet, the brunette’s feline-like reflexes are faster, and she dodges each strike.

Unfortunately, the last upper slash alerts the Kusanagi by damaging her t-shirt. Although she has a trick or two under her sleeve.

The brunette sends the spin-sick at her rival.

However, even if the redhead was too late to avoid the impact, she blocks Kyoko’s leg with her elbow. As Ioriko groans and lowers her hit the arm, she barely has time to react to another strike.

Lastly, Yagami counterattacks the brunette’s launched fire by Kusanagi’s sent flame. As the entangled flames submerge into the air, the brunette charges at the redhead.

Kyoko is confident that she’ll push down her opponent on the ground. Suddenly, she widens her eyes as the redhead moves to the side.

Once the Kusanagi’s heir crashes and collapses on the ground, she lets out a whimper. While she lies on her stomach and shakily tries to get up, her opponent approaches her.

After Ioriko stomps on the brunette’s back with her foot and bends down, she sinks her fingers into Kyoko’s scalp and, with a delightful and proud smile on her face, declares ‘‘Tsk, and so much of your swansong… Do you have any last words before I’ll kill you?’’. Lastly, she leans closer to the Kusanagi and impatiently waits for her answer.

Although instead of admitting her defeat, Kyoko only stubbornly stares without saying a word. There is no way she’ll give up on her rival.

Of course, such a gaze makes the Yagami’s heart skip a beat. For now, all she can do is silently stare.

Meanwhile, Kyoko is confused about why her old-time rival takes her time. And thus, the brunette breaks the silence between them ‘‘What’s the matter? Aren’t you gonna finish me?’’.

After the redhead removes her palm from the Kusanagi’s head, she takes a step back and crosses her arms ‘‘That would be just a waste of my time.’’. When she turns her head away, she defends herself ‘‘Besides, you purposely went easy on me, you idiot! So, I don’t want to have a cheap victory. Be grateful that I’ll spare you this time, got it?’’.

As soon as the brunette notices her opponent hiding her shy gaze and pinkish cheeks, she warmly smiles. Although she could tease the redhead, instead of that, Kyoko warmly smiles ‘‘Whatever you call it.’’.

After the brunette rolls on her back, she leans on her elbows and is about to get up.

Yet, Ioriko’s unpredictable behavior surprises Kyoko again. When the redhead squats, she stretches her hand at the Kusanagi while complaining ‘‘It can’t be helped. It seems I need to do all the work by myself.’’.

As the brunette takes Yagami’s hand without no second thought, she nods and tightly grasps it.

When Ioriko helps Kyoko get up, she speaks in a slightly shaky voice ‘‘Don’t get any wrong ideas, okay? This is the first and the last time when I’m doing this. Next time you’re dead! Mark my words, Kyoko.’’.

‘‘Sure thing. And that is not because someone is too stubborn to admit having a little crush on me~’’ The Kusanagi replies while giving a teasing look.

Of course, Yagami doesn’t like how the brunette points this out in a public place. So, she decides to teach a little lesson to one arrogant gal.

Suddenly, the redhead grabs her rival by her t-shirt and growls ‘‘You allow yourself a bit too much, aren’t you? How about I’ll show you your place, Kyoko?’’.

Despite that, it is impossible not to chuckle at such an intimidating look, yet the Kusanagi holds her back. While she gently strokes Ioriko’s cheek, she gives a flirtatious gaze ‘‘Please, do it~ I would like to see it. However, maybe in a more private place where no one will see how you’ll slowly finish me.’’.

Before Yagami opens her mouth to object, Kyoko ruffles her rival’s hair and chuckles ‘‘You can release me now. I promise I’ll behave.’’.

After the redhead releases her rival’s t-shirt, she replies ‘‘We’ll see about that! Anyway, since you lost, you need to do anything I say until tomorrow. I’ll take no as an answer.’’.

‘‘Aww, does little Ioriko invites me to date?~ Sure! Besides, I have nothing better to do today anyway. So, you wanna hang out or what?’’ Or so, the brunette asks.

Surprisingly, instead of sending a fireball at Kyoko’s face, Ioriko briefly answers ‘‘I’ll leave it to you to decide, you fool.’’.

‘‘Then, should we get on my bike?’’ The brunette suggests.

As the redhead raises her eyebrow, she remarks while keeping her hands on her hips ‘‘I’m surprised you can drive. You better hope that you won’t crash anywhere. Otherwise, I will remind you what happens if you try to mock me.’’.

The brunette only brushes her finger under her nose ‘‘I’ll take that as yes. Don’t worry, if you behave, I’ll let you cling to me when you get scared of the speed.’’.

In the end, the redhead only puffs her cheeks and turns her head away. After returning her gaze to Kyoko, she allows the brunette to wrap her arm around her waist as they walk toward their new destination place.

‘That should count as another reason to finish the Kusanagi’s heir, right? So, she better enjoy while she can until that moment arrives.’ Or so, Yagami thinks to herself.

Suddenly, the redhead is returned to this world by Kyoko’s question ‘‘Oi, are you still here with us?’’.

Before the brunette removes her arm from Ioriko, Yagami replies ‘‘You can keep it. If that bothered me, I would have already torn your arm. Besides, you would have done it, anyway. So, I only fasten the inevitable.’’.

In the end, Kyoko is secretly happy that the redhead allows such a gesture. Perhaps, tonight, she might even show Yagami that she bought a tiny box with a small ring inside, which she was looking to get for a couple of weeks.

But for now, the brunette finally comes up with an idea of where Ioriko would like to go while completely forgetting about her poor disciple.

When they put the helmets on, Kyoko turns her bike, and Ioriko sits behind her. Lastly, Yagami presses her body against the brunette. As the redhead tightly clings to her partner, they are off.