Ragnarok

[Hotaru987]

"For you, the reward for my labors in halting Ymir's rise." Nailah smiled while handing over a book to her patron god; Thoth. Like always his eyes shined with both curiosity and immense knowledge that would have any knowledge seeker begging at his feet. He took the book intending to add it to his library. "You did well Nailah." He praised flipping through the text, "I find that the works of man are very interesting. Be sure to find more texts for me." 

 

"Well of course, but don't forget to let me read it as well." Thoth chuckled, patting the top of her head gently, "A vanguard of Thoth indeed. Walk with me." Of course Nailah obliged, "In your opinion do you believe this is the best way to go about preserving ma'at."

 

The young vanguard didn't understand where he was trying to go with such an obvious question, but answered the question anyway, "Yes. If you believe it to be so, then it is the same for I." She thought for a bit, "Though, even without my strong desire to keep order having the 3 most powerful 'evils' come together would need to be stopped regardless. Even then evil is a relative term. Set, Loki and Ymir are evil by our terms due to them always doing things that prove harmful to a vast majority, but in truth that is their nature. It is their state of being. Pardon my words, but part of their nature was caused by unfairness by other gods. A prime example being Hades, not even having a throne in Olympus simply because his reign is in the underworld. Arrogance can prove to be just as 'evil' as the gods of many Pantheons have proven time and time again." With a sigh Nailah stopped herself, "I'm beginning to rant."

 

Again Thoth chuckled, "It is fine. You and I have similar views." Noticing her confusion Thoth continued, "I was simply curious to hear your thoughts. As you know I once aided in Set's regeneration in order to regain order on our side, and there are some gods who are a bit skeptical."

 

"When are they not. Pardon my saying, but you also have your moments as well."

 

"Hmm, I suppose so. Knowing the secrets to the world, universe and mankind can go to someone's head."

 

"You're bragging again."

 

"Am I?" He laughed. "What of the other Vanguards? What did you make of them?"

 

"Capable warriors, every single one. Well...I'll just let you see for yourself." Nailah stood still as Thoth placed a finger on her forehead pulling the knowledge directly from her. When he was finished he again had that flash of infinite curiosity, which in ways humbled Nailah. If Thoth, the god of knowledge, was still driven by curiosity then Nailah would never know all there is to know. No matter how may lives she was given."The vanguard of Anhur huh."

 

Nailah blushed, "What of it?"

 

"Nothing, I already know of course."

 

Nailah pouted behind her mask and crossed her arms, "Last time I let you into my head." 

[Ren✧]

Quillan sat on the back of Vex, his arms crossed and his anger boiling. That pompous Odin hadn't even looked at him. Was he not good enough for the All-Father? It sure seemed that, that stupid Leon had been more than good enough though. Gods above! One day he would put the gods in their place, and Leon too. Would you quit your stewing. We're almost home. Vex said as the two descended towards Olympus. The monstrous temple sat perched on the clouds above snow capped mountains. A small city expanded outward, each building and even the roads floated lazily in the clouds. This was Olympus. Home of the Greek gods. 

 

The two landed on the white marble steps that led up to the main temple that housed the twelve thrones. "Thanks Vex." Quillan said, feeling slightly bad about ranting to her the entire flight from Asgard. The storm spirit winnied in reply and then disappeared in a clap of thunder. Taking a deep breath, Quillan climbed the steps, entering Olympus.  

 

Twelve massive thrones sat in a horseshoe-like pattern before him. Most of them were empty, but Quillan noted that a few gods had come to see what news he had of the battle. He saw Athena, Artemis, Poseidon, and of course Zeus. The king of the gods sat huge upon his throne, glaring down at Quillan. The other gods halted their conversing as the Vanguard entered their hall. Suddenly 4 pairs of divinely powered eyes were upon him. Energy crackled around his being. Most people would have at least been nervous, but Quillan couldn't help but laugh. "Hey Big Z!" Quillan called, waving to Zeus. The stern expression of the sky god faltered, amusement crossing his eyes. No matter how hard Zeus tried, he couldn't help but like Quillan. He reminded the god of what he was like in his younger centuries. 

 

"Quillan! What news do you bring?" Zeus called, his voice booming across the silent hall. The other gods watched intently waiting for Quillan's answer. "Long story short, we kicked ass! Now, where is Notus hiding?" Quillan asked, eager to see his Patron god. A smile crossed Zeus' face. "He's where he always is. Now go." Quillan nodded, backing out of the room. He smiled at each of the gods that he passed, winking as he crossed Artemis' path. The goddess just scowled. Quillan had tried more than once to seduce the virgin goddess, as of yet his efforts had been in vain, but things would change.

 

Leaving the temple, Quillan raced down the golden streets. He soon came upon the Tower of the Winds. Here the 4 Anemoi and their 'master' Aeolus lived. Entering the tower, Quillan climbed the spiraling stairs until entering his Patron's room. Sitting in the middle of a bare space, a man dressed in a bright white toga floated gently in the air. He sat cross legged, his eyes closed, and his hands on his knees. Large wings sat folded on the god's back, moving up in down slowly. "You're back." The god said, not opening his eyes. Quillan nodded. "Yep. We won, if you wanted to know." Quillan said, jumping into the air, and then floating gracefully back to the ground while lying on his back. "I know. The wind told me. I am more interested in that." The god said, pointing at Quillan's pocket. The god had yet to open his eyes, but Quillan knew that Notus could see perfectly well. 

 

"Wow! I thought I'd be able to hide it for awhile at least." Quillan pulled a small egg out of pocket. The egg was a light pink, with veins of red crossing his surface. "A harpy egg."

[Kyng's Old Account]

Inspired, Leon was now engaging in his vigorous training in the deserts of Egypt, surrounding Heliopolis. Having found himself a nice lot of sandstone rubble, he had decided to bring his two Divine Djerds  tot he spot and, with a rope tying the two poles together, he had formed a makeshift barbell which he decided to make use of. In the blazing hot sun, he had began to pump the dense, heavy spears, up and down in a somewhat hypnotic pace, able to continue the rate he was going at.

 

Clair had, by then, approached him. He instantly recognized her presence, it was hard not to spot it. So, he rested the spears to the side of the stone as he sat up and got a good look at her, and with brows raised he listened to what she had to say. Following this, he sighed and shook his head. "You are forgiven, comrade." he softly spoke to her with temperance.

 

Standing up he walked over to her and frowned for a moment as he gazed at her bruise. "I am not going to spar with a handicapped partner, though. Honor is, indeed, important, but one's healthy must always come before these concepts." Leon took a moment to think about where on earth that bruise could have came from.

 

Clair suffered no harm during the course of the mission nor the return to Olympus. He could, thus, only conclude that... "Did your Patron do this to you?"

 

Violence, like this, between allies was unacceptable. As such, Leon was determined to get an audience with the chief God, Ra, himself, to resolve this issue. So, returning to his post, he carried both spears on his back as he tracked back to Heliopolis, saying to Clair "Follow me. I don't want to have you collapse with that injury."

[Lunar Origins]

"I'm tough, I'm not going to collapse..."  She felt the bruise on face, wincing at the touch.  "Oh, my patron would never do this to me.  I simply fell down some stairs, that's all."  She managed a small smile- an indecisive smile, but a smile nevertheless.  "He was a little disappointed in my not being able to battle, but nothing more.  This battle for honor is simply something personal."

 

Her aura was, she noticed, nearly gone.  As she had left her gear at Olympus, she had nothing to channel her power through, thus changing her personality and looks dramatically.  She wasn't quite as violent or sadistic without the aura, nor was she nearly as creepy.  Just... average.  Still, leaving the armor behind couldn't keep her sharp tongue, so she laughed and spoke up,  "Even with an injury, I could take you in a fight.  I'm a warrior, bruises are nothing, my dear."

 

Contrary to what she was saying, though, she nearly stumbled every few steps, sometimes grabbing onto Leon for balance.  When she realized she was doing this, she grabbed one of his spears and started using it as a walking stick.  "I hope you don't mind," she said.  Leon was cute, alright, but she saw how he looked at that Nailah girl.  She shrugged it off.  War didn't have time for crushes.

[Hotaru987]

Still following behind Thoth, intending to raid through his library again now that she had some free time, she took the time to enjoy the scenery of Heliopolis. Like other Vanguards, she didn't remember her life before becoming a vanguard, but she was positive that nothing she had seen then could have surpassed Heliopolis. It was then she noticed Leon, which was no surprise, but the strange thing was Clair was with him. She was using one of Leon's spears to walk. "But she didn't fight...I wonder what happened." There was also something different about her. Clair wasn't wearing her armor and without it she wasn't nearly as creepy or intimidating as before. "Thoth, I'll come by later."

 

"Uh-huh, enjoy yourself now."

 

"Keep your thoughts to yourself." Nailah called back with a slight laugh.

 

She jogged up to the two, waving once they noticed her. "What's up." Now that she got a closer look at Clair she wondered what happened to the girl from before. It was like seeing a whole new person. Once her shock was gone she noticed the bruise on her face, "What happened to you? How did you get hurt? Are you alright?" From what Nailah remembered Clair remained unharmed until they parted ways for their patron's home. So whatever happened must have happened at Olympus. "I could probably fix that up for you if you'd like."

[Ren✧]

"Yeah, Odin gave it to me." Quillan said, staring happily at the egg cupped in his hands. "Oh what right?! That old-geezer has no jurisdiction of the sky and sure as Hades shouldn't be giving my Vanguard the egg of a harpy. You know how I feel about those creatures. They are vile and disgusting. There was a reason I wouldn't give you one before." Quillan nodded to this. He had known his patron wouldn't be so happy about the possession of the egg. "I'm tell you, I can handle it. Besides, having another unit could prove beneficial in battle." Quillan said the sentence with practice, he had been figuring out what to say to his patron since obtaining the egg, knowing that his usual brand of confidence and wit wouldn't get him out of trouble this time. "I don't think so, you still haven't been able to master most of the techniques I've been trying to teach you. And Vex only listens to you because I make her. What makes you think that you can handle a creature as wild as a harpy?" Quillan frowned. His patron had hit a nerve, and he knew it. Notus was well aware of Quillan's desire to be a stronger Vanguard, and the effort he put into training. Things were about to get ugly. "You know what? I don't need this from you. I just fought off throngs of demons and mummies, to bring honor to your freaking unheard of name! I'm out!" ​Shoving the egg into his pocket, Quillan left the god's presence.  

 

Continuing to climb the Tower of the Wind, Quillan entered his own room. It was fairly plain, consisting of a wooden-framed bed, a dresser, and wooden practice dummy. Setting the egg on his dresser, Quillan let loose a few anger-filled punches on the wooden combat dummy. It was sturdily built, having been made by the crafting god Hephaestus himself, and barely moved on the impact. Still, it was good for Quillan to loose his anger. Sitting cross legged on the floor, Quillan closed his eyes and tried to steady his heart beat.

 

His breathing settled, becoming rhythmatic. Despite his anger at Notus' distrust at his abilities, Quillan felt bad about what he had said. He had no right to be calling patron unheard of. While it was more or less true, it was hard for most gods to come to the realization that they were no longer worshipped as they once were. Continuing his meditation, Quillan tried to clear the storm that swirled about his mind. 

[Kyng's Old Account]

"You can say what you like, but think of it likes this: if I were to engage you in a fair battle when you are handicapped, regardless of how handicapped that is, I would be dishonored." Leon really hoped that would be the end of things. In truth, fighting Clair in this state would bring him no merit. She also seemed to be lacking her 'aura' as it were which, in its own right, made her significantly weaker. For Leon, well, since this was not a war, and simply a spar, he wouldn't let her fight him when she wasn't at 100%.
 
Of course he didn't mind her using his wooden spears as a walking stick, it only showed the problem to be something much worse. That was when Nailah appeared, which brought a smile to Leon's lips. She was concerned with their ally and her well being and, indeed, seeing Nailah like this gave Leon a warm sensation. Nonetheless he escorted Clair to shade as he said "I think it goes without saying that you are being subject to abuse. Not anymore, however: you've been through enough. We'll see about getting you a new Patron." With this said he shot a gaze to Nailah in confidence she'd agree with him.[hr]

Chapter 3 - Diplomatic Intimidation*

Three weeks had passed. As promised, Clair was indeed tried for a new Patron. Phobos' behavior conflicted with the roles of his duties and, as such, Clair was granted the ability to select her new Patron by choice, and was given two weeks to train with said Patron. Furthermore, a number of developments had been uncovered:

• Enemy Gods were revealed to have their own Vanguards.
• They also had began a campaign regarding ressurecting Titans, and as such Erebus had became an intense war-zone.
• The behavior of some of the Allied Gods had began to worry the leading strategists.

The Vanguards had their own mission regarding this third issue. They had been sent to China in order to investigate the behavior of a Dragon King, the Deities of the Seas. Specifically, the behavior was that of Ao Kuang, of the East Sea. Claims had included regard that the Dragon hadn't quite learned his lesson given to him by Nezha, and had, once again, began terrorizing the people of the Chengtan Pass with his vicious storms.
 
Ra had addressed this issue with the Vanguards, now deemed a Team, for the moment named "Frontliners" when regarding this particular team, as he explicitly stated the premise of this missions. Each of the Vanguard would remember this meet, and the words of the Sun God, that "You must ensure his allegiance through whatever means necessary, within reason of course. However, to ensure his allegiance, he must be alive. I will repeat myself: you are strictly forbidden to kill Ao Kuang. He is among the few remaining neutral deities and his wealth is necessary. I shall, for one final team, repeat myself: do not kill Ao Kuang, lest you wish to meet him in his fate." for such words would not easily be forgotten.
 
Leon knew they had reached the very place when seeing the clouds overhead, grey with malice afoot. It was clear the Dragon God was greedy and looking forward for a very nice, and prosperous tyranny from his people. Looking back to his Vanguards in the windy fields he said "This will not be easy, I am not sure we can sway him, but we do not offer lives. A soul is a soldier if we gain their favor; let us do our Deities proud!"
 
Leon then looked ahead rather blank, before sighing and turning to Genzai. "You know Dragons better than anyone of us. What do you think we should do?"[hr]

*I'm sorry about having to rush ahead, but we ideally need to get Renegade back with the main group.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

China...a land Genzai had only seen once. He had seen it by the visions of his patron god: Ryujin. It was a nice land, one of the better lands that he had seen, however right now that was not the case. As for the Dragon King, he had never met him, though Ryujin had often told Genzai stories of the many Dragon deities that lived amongst the humans: the East Sea being his first example.

 

"You know Dragons better than anyone of us. What do you think we should do?"

 

Genzai turned to Leon, before returning his view to the field. He was right, out of the Vanguards here, he was more in tune with knowing the way a dragon thinks, after all, Ryujin was a dragon. He crossed his arms and closed his eyes as he thought for a moment, as he felt the windy breeze upon his skin. It was definitely clear the wind itself was sad and worried. At last he opened his eyes and turned back to the Vanguards.

 

Fairy Tail OST ~ Dragon Slayer

 

"We must head to the Chengtan Pass. Ryujin-sama often told me stories about this Ao Kuang...and usually won't make many deals or even speak to most human. He has somewhat of a trust issue, thanks in part to Nezha. In actuality, its more of a pride matter, as Ao Kuang lost his son: Ao Bing and his investigator: Li Gen by Nezha's hands after he sent them off." Genzai recalled everything he was told by Ryujin. "It is very clear that the East Sea, now having a different motif for this will not just normally converse with anyone...however...my idea has merit."

 

The Shinto Vanguard turned his head to the malice gray sky, before returning to the group. "We must protect the villagers in the Chengtan Pass. However, Leon, I ask you one request. No one allow near the East Sea...I wish to talk to the Dragon King myself." He noticed looks of shock on the Vanguard's faces, especially Leon's. "I know it seems like a long-shot here, but as I am a Vanguard to the Shinto god of the Sea, who is a Dragon, perhaps he will be allowed to hear me out. Please allow me this chance to reason with him."

[Lunar Origins]

Clair, listening to what Genzai had to say, primarily focusing on his words regarding Chengtan Pass.  "You mean to say we need to go out of our way to protect the villagers when our prime focus is taking Ao Kuang as our ally?"  She brushed her air out of her face, and jabbed her blade into the ground, leaning on it.  "I'm not saying we can't, but is it necessary?  The danger isn't so immediate lest we greatly anger someone, or something, and we came here to avoid just doing that.  If we play it smart, I'm fairly sure everything will turn out fine."

 

A faint smile crossed her lips.  That persona she had while she was with Phobos- gone.  Not entirely gone, at least, but it wasn't there on the surface.  She was happy.  What a jerk he was.

 

"Regarding your comment on going alone- what happens when you anger Ao Kuang?  If we're far from the East Sea, and you happen to do something wrong, you're mince-meat, sweetheart.  I don't think your own god can even save you here.  I'm not doubting his own abilities, I'm just saying that the danger you'd be putting yourself into far outweighs the benefits."

 

She closed her eyes, then opened them, gesturing towards the bad winds.  They were troubling in this situation, alright.  Something to be concerned of.  "Something around here smells fishy.  I've got the feeling we're going to be dealing with a lot more than just Ao Kuang."

[Hotaru987]

China truly was a beautiful place, the only problem Nailah had with this was that she could not take the time to sight-see like she truly desired too. Pulled from her thoughts that she had been so engrossed in, she heard Leon ask Genzai whether he had any ideas to persuade the dragon god; Ao Kuang. Genzai took a moment before explaining his idea, which entailed him speaking to the god alone while the rest of them protected the villagers. Clair gave her two cents, which Nailah was more inclined to agree with. Now that Clair had a new patron she wasn't nearly as unnerving as before. Even then Nailah knew she wasn't a bad person but that aura around her made Nailah way too uncomfortable. So Nailah was more than happy with Clair's decision to change patrons.

 

"I have to say I agree with Clair. While you probably do stand the greatest chance of having the god hear you out, going alone is more trouble than it is worth. Though I would rather we all go just to be safe, I would not be apposed to splitting up. A few of us head to meet the god, and the rest protect the villagers. While we want to get this done without any problems, we should plan of every contingency and that is having a few people stationed by the village." Nailah looked towards Leon when she finished. Though they were of the same Parthenon this would be the first time she had been a part of the same mission as he was. It was clear that he was the appointed leader, he simply had that quality to him, so she was interested to see how he would call this.

[Ren✧]

Quillan listened as his fellow Vanguards discussed strategy. Normally he wouldn't involve himself with such matters, because as much as he hated to admit it, he was more of a soldier than he was a leader. He hit things, and he hit them hard, but according to Notus that was pretty much all he was good for. But this time, Quillan had an idea. "If I may," Quillan said, pushing his way into the group of Vanguards. "I have to say that I agree with Genzai here...to an extent. He deserves a chance to prove himself, but I am not exactly cool with allowing him to have all the fun. So, I could fly above the two as they meet and if anything goes down then I'll be there to lend a hand. That leaves three of you to guard the villagers." Quillan said, a feeling of disappointment washing over him as he noticed that Beth wasn't there. Nailah was of course a pretty sight, but she didn't get him going the same way Beth did, unfortunately it would seem that the Vanguard had chosen to sit this one out. Quillan looked to Clair. The girl was different. 

 

He had of course heard about the drama that had went down after their battle at Bilfrost. He was disgusted by Phobos' actions, but sympathized with the girl. Notus and him hadn't been getting along very well lately either. He wouldn't be surprised if they came to blows sooner or later. But it would seem that Clair had switched patrons, a new personality completely engulfing the blonde girl. Quillan had to admit that she wasn't nearly as scary as she had been before...and even bordered on sexy. "I could probably bring one person with me as well. I've been practicing." And it was true, over the two weeks of rest Quillan had begun to get a better control over his powers. "So what do you guys think?" Quillan's face reddened slightly. It wasn't too often that the confident Vanguard felt self conscious, but this was definitely not his comfort zone. 

[Kyng's Old Account]

Leon listened intently to the expert's plan at hand, and the further information he scribed them, about his pride. It seemed that Ao Kuang was, if anything, a humiliated God among other things. Nonetheless the plan he informed him was to ensure that the citizens were safe as well as allowing him, Genzai, to speak to Ao Kuang alone. This indeed shocked Leon somewhat, but he later took a deep breath and was about to respond.

This was when Clair came in. He had to admit, after her make-over she seemed much more happier, like a new person altogether. Athena had taken her under her wing, a fellow War God, but unlike Anhur, Athena focussed upon the strategic side of war, while Anhur...well, it was safe to say that Anhur was the patron of the army itself. This allowed Clair, now, to shine, in that she had great tactician traits as well as still strong standard combat.

Clair analysed Genzai's plan piece by piece. She conveyed priorities to be placed in encountering Ao Kuang rather than civilian protection, as if by chance Genzai was to anger the God, well, there was no doubt that a God would always outclass a Vanguard, especially on their own. She summed up her analysis neatly by coming to a conclusion in that there must be something more to this.

Nailah supported Clair's idea, while Quillan agreed with Genzai. Leon could tell from Nailah's look that he was expected to make a decision, but it had turned from a battle planning into Boys v Girls. It was then Leon looked ahead and continued to walk towards the Pass, as he spoke out the decision he had made regarding the issue at hand. "Clair is likely right. From what Genzai has told me, it is likely that Ao Kuang is not doing this out of spite but rather humiliation. That means he is likely to be volatile, and very aggressive. If we look at the damage he is doing to the sea, through vicious winds, rains and storms, then in close quarters it is probably he'd butcher us, one by one."

As he continued to walk, which became sprinting, he looked back over his shoulder. "Ao Kuang resides in his underwater palace. We can reach that through his temple at the pass. However, we cannot ignore potential civilian casualties." Leon then shot a gaze to Quillan. "I'll give you plenty of glory here. Since you can manipulate the very air, you'll be protecting the pass. You must disrupt Ao Kuang's winds so that they do not do any severe damage. The villagers will give you more praise than that worthy of Apollo himself."

He then looked to Nailah. "Fellow Egyptian, bring Heliopolis honour. You are our strongest ally, and only you can completely negate Ao Kuang's more dangerous attack. Make use of your splitting Words, and destroy any storm clouds, typhoons, tornadoes and the likes. I have the utmost faith that your magic will save many souls."

As the sprint continued to the pass, the winds notably became harsher, which lead Leon to shout his next commands. "When the storm concentrates nearby the sea, Ao Kuang will be likely to be attacking us! At that point, rush to the temple, and reach the palace! Your reinforcements are vital to our survival!" He then shouted out Genzai and Clair's names. "We three are the most combat-driven soldiers in this team! Genzai! It is your duty to speak to the Dragon God! Clair! You and I will provide him security if needed! Remember, we must not kill the Dragon God!" Following this, he shouted out to supply a morale boost to his allies.

As the Vanguards had made their ways to the Pass, they would notice the coastal village was in absolute turmoil. Houses had collapsed from the intense winds, and there was enormous typhoons spinning above the seas, just creating even more damage. Some of the streets were flooded, causing villagers to be dragged closer to the vicious winds. This was absolute anarchy, and needed attention, immediately.

Genzai would be given his chance to shine, and Quillan would have the glory of saving villagers. The two male egos were petted by this decision, Leon assumed, and he had hoped that by going with the ladies' idea to focus efforts on Ao Kuang would ease them too. As such, Leon had made his way to the temple and rushed down the stairs. It was a spiralling staircase, which eventually became a long foot path directed towards the sea.

___

Leon would arrive to see the beautiful palace, but at the far end of the large hall was the very Dragon God himself, Ao Kuang, 15 metres tall, thrashing about and roaring tremendously with sheer rage. The Dragon God then turned to see the Vanguard(s) and barked out "Who dares enter my palace at a time like this, and without offerings!? Then, I can only assume you offer yourselves!?"

To this Leon remained silent. It was on Genzai to steal the show.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

"Thank you, Leon." Genzai simply said as they began to sprint towards the pass.

 

There, the Shinto Vanguard saw the village in turmoil and chaos...that of which he had never seen before. As Leon, Clair, and Genzai neared the temple, Genzai stopped short as he turned back to see Quillan and Nailah taking their commanded positions. May the gods be with you both... he thought, as he clenched his fists in a nervous manner, as he followed close behind the other two Vanguards.

_____

 

"Who dares enter my palace at a time like this, and without offerings!? Then, I can only assume you offer yourselves!?"

 

Those were the words that Genzai heard when the three entered the palace. With a small exhale, Genzai moved forward and presented himself in front of Ao Kuang. He gave a normal bow and looked directly at him, with a fierce determination in his eyes.

 

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm0YmRHdyz4]Gurren Lagann OST ~ No Helping It![/url]

 

"Dragon King of the East Sea: Ao Kuang. I am Genzai Hatsune! I represent the great Shinto god of the Oceans: the dragon Ryujin." Genzai began. "My allies and I have come to your domain to reason with you. The gods of the other sects have begun to have doubts about you, Ao Kuang-sama. With the war going on with the forces of Ragnarok, they need all the help that they can get. And you taking a humiliated moment in your life and using to fuel your anger against those in the Chengtan Pass is not helping! If you continue down this path...it will only lead to your own destruction." He paused for another moment, and then looked at the Dragon King once again. "After all...would this be the you that you would've wanted your son: Ao Bing to see you like? I know I don't know much about Chinese culture or rather much on the Chinese gods that the people hold dear, but you...like many humans were a father. And as fathers go, you always go out of your way to make your child happy. I know, because during the training I was given through Ryujin...he's been like a father to me. He even told me how he even modeled his styles after the East Sea."

 

His huge speech over, Genzai then knelt down and bowed his head. "Ao Kuang-sama...please. For your sake, please end this rampage. Become once again the shining East Sea that you have claimed to be many times before."

[Lunar Origins]

Clair was satisfied with the decisions of the so-called leader.  With Nailah's dominating power, she could probably hold the village steady by herself.  However...  she noted that someone interfering with Ao Kuang's powers might piss him off even more than he already is.  It seemed as if going against whatever he was doing may actually be adding insult to injury.  "No matter," she thought to herself.

 

The use of Japanese honorifics confused Clair, but she brushed it off as nothing more than habit.  Yes, it may have been appropriate if they were dealing with a Japanese god, but given they were dealing with a Chinese god, specifically a sea-god, it seemed out of context.  The Chinese and the Japanese had a bloody past, especially when it came to naval warfare.  She remembered bits and pieces of history, such as the kamikaze- and she had no doubt in her mind that that may have been one god acting against another- particularly, Ryujin versus Ao Kuang himself.

 

As for her actions right now, Clair could only nod in the presence of the imposing dragon.  Suddenly, she thought of this whole thing as a bad idea.

[Ren✧]

Quillan rolled his eyes at Leon's announcement. He didn't get it. Of course, why should he? He had been a prodigy since the beginning of this little adventure, but it did not matter. He would do as told...once again. He watched wistfully as Genzai, Leon, and Clair ran into Ao Kung's lair. However, Leon's reasoning did make sense. These storms were just spirits that had yet to be tamed. Calling upon Vex, Quillan asked a favor of the storm spirit. "Keep watch over the village and save anyone that you can. This is going to be tough." The storm spirit did not argue for once, she simply nodded, rocketing towards the chaotic village. Turning to Nailah, Quillan asked. "Looks like things here are left to us." With that, Quillan closed his eyes. 

 

The time for his training had come. He hoped he could finally make Notus see that he was ready for bigger things. Calming his breathing, Quillan focused on the winds that howled around them. On the pelting rain. On the vicious cold. He had felt winds like this before. The god Euros, one of the four Anemoi, created storms such as this. But Ao Kung and Euros weren't the only ones that could make storms. Opening his eyes, Quillan thrust his palms outwards, and instantly the wind that had been cutting at his skin dissipated. In truth, Quillan had just channeled the wind away from his body, creating a place of serenity. Sitting down, Quillan began to concentrate. He took in his surroundings. Feeling the wind around him and its origins. Notus had always told him that the wind was alive. And for the first time, Quillan could feel it.

 

Quillan began to rise into the air, the winds that had before blasted about in a chaotic mess began to swirl around him. Soon enough, Quillan sat cross legged, held aloft in the air by the stormy winds. Once again he thrusted his hands outward, a small tornado forming in front of him. It lashed out, colliding with a twister that had previously been speeding towards the village. The two tornadoes fought for a moment. Their spirits colliding before dissolving into nothingness. Quillan could almost feel. He could feel peace within the storm.

 

He desperately continued this tactic, smashing back twisters and hurricanes that began to take shape. He couldn't do much about the pelting rains, but the danger from the wind had died down considerably. Unfortunately, his strength had begun to waver. Sooner or later he would have to slow down. Nailah would definitely have her hands full. Hopefully the girl's words were more than just for show. Quillan chuckled slightly, reminded of their first meeting. Maybe this time, he would be the one to blow her away. 

[Kyng's Old Account]

Leon looked to Genzai, unnerved, hoping he had said the right things. They had an enormous, dangerous Dragon God before them, and quite frankly, seeing what Ao Kuang could do to this village, the thought of fighting this colossal foe would not be a delightful experience. Indeed Genzai's efforts were very valiant and expressed more heart than what Leon himself would anticipate, and it is true that there would be common grounds between these two entities, Genzai and Ao Kuang, both representing the Orient's seas with Draconic might.
 
Unfortunately, Clair had identified exactly what was wrong. Ao Kuang was pissed off, and he would not be reasoned with.

~♪~

Ao let out an enormous shriek of rage as he leered at Genzai. Eyes raged, he began to grind his teeth as he let everything the Shinto Vanguard sink in, and once it had he immediately went to swipe his large scaled body at Genzai with a quick smash, indeed possible to dodge, but very much like a sucker punch it was unexpected and, indeed, unethical. "How dare you even so as to suggest I was humiliated! You disgusting milk drinker, you are privileged to be in MY presence, yet you have the audacity, the disrespect to call me out in such a manner!"

 

He then let out a terrifying bark, Leon immediately reading his spears in order to initiate his newly developed skill, Morale Heku - Confidence. Closing in to Genzai, the magic's aura took effect, though Leon could be unsure if he had received the boost. Nonetheless this would not stop Ao Kuang from ranting. "My son would follow my will, you dare not bring his name again, or I shall tear you from limb to bloody limb!"

 

Leon wouldn't stand for this bullying, and growled before pointing his spear at Ao Kuang. "We have came here for your allegiance, and we will get it, one way or another. Just remember, Dragon God of the Eastern Sea, unlike your people we are not afraid to report your actions to your superior, the Jade Emperor. You dare not question him, do you?"

 

This was the last push Ao Kuang would take. Eyes boiling with anger, he began to withdraw his fury from the Pass, which returned the standard of the area back to normal and would be the signal that Nailah and Quillan were to look out for. This was because Ao Kuang was focussing his might and power in order to destroy the Vanguards present, and as such he barked out before unleashing a vicious breath of furious winds at Leon, Genzai, and Clair, all at once.

 

In response, Leon knew it was game time. After having been thrown back and stumbled down by the God's gust attack, he began to pelt Ao Kuang with solar spears with his right hand, while calling his Assegai with his left in order to engage in melee combat. However, the solar spears merely grazed the scaled of the Dragon whom felt no harm from them, what with Leon not being exposed in the sunlight and thus decreasing the power of his attacks.

 

Ao Kuang then let out a roar as he threw his hands up, which whipped up a vicious tornado upon the lowest level of the hall, where the Vanguards stood. Leon did not manage to grab his spears and as a result was caught up and thrown in the tornado, unable to respond as the Dragon God began to thrash his serpentine body at other targets.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

Fairy Tail ~ Lightning Flame Dragon Roaring

 

Genzai yelled as he was pushed back by the winds. He quickly stood up and clenched his fists. No...this was not going to happen this way...not as long as they stood...no as HE stood. He began to walk towards the Dragon King, his eyes fixated on him alone. Drawing his blade, he swung it around him for a moment.

 

"Ao Kuang...I will not give up on you. Just the same as Ryujin never gave up on me...and as the Jade Emperor never gave up on you!" he yelled, as he quickly put his free hand on the katana, as it was covered in a glowing blue aura. "GUYS! COVER YOUR EARS!! Ryujin Kenbu! 3rd Form!" And without another hesitation, Genzai stabbed the now glowing katana into the ground. "AME NO GOON (Roar of Rain)!!!!"

 

All throughout the palace, a dragon's audible roar was heard...but it wasn't Ao Kuang. No, the roar didn't come from the Dragon King, rather Genzai's very blade itself. He began to watch the East Sea writhe in pain, as this roar was even too great for him. Pulling the blade out of the ground, Genzai was now on the clock. Thirteen seconds was now all he had time, as Ao Kuang couldn't attack yet.

 

"Time for the last form..." Genzai said, as he quickly began to channel energy into the blade. "Ryujin Kenbu! 4th Form!" Then it happened, aura spilled out from the blade in a water form, creating on the Shinto Vanguard's back; a pair of wings. "Ame no Tsubasa (Wings of Rain)!!" Genzai then flew high into the air and caught Ao Kuang's eyes, staring straight into them. "Ao Kuang-diànxià..." he began...hoping he pronounced the honorific correctly. "I wish not to harm you or bring any harm to the good people of China, as you may have as a thought. No, I wish to only preserve all peoples from the wrath of the forces of Ragnarok and even from those who stray off the path of peace. I do not want these people or anyone to have to deal with anything like what happened during Kamikaze...I know this as Ryujin even told me that in all truth, he never wanted to fight you. He hoped you would want to not just remain as two Orient's seas representatives...but allies in the war that was to come: Ragnarok."

[Hotaru987]

 "Fellow Egyptian, bring Heliopolis honour. You are our strongest ally, and only you can completely negate Ao Kuang's more dangerous attack. Make use of your splitting Words, and destroy any storm clouds, typhoons, tornadoes and the likes. I have the utmost faith that your magic will save many souls."

 

With a determined nod Nailah spoke,"You have my word, I will not let Heliopolis down." As they came upon the village, it was shown to be in shambles and in dire need of help. The winds were vicious and typhoons formed within seconds of each other, causing the already flooded streets to become worse. She would be working with Quillian to protect the town, which was a smart decision on Leon's part. With parting words Quillian launched up into the air, not before calling one of his units to help with the ground as well. 

 

"Guess now is a good time than any." She reached up removing her mask, revealing a set of plump dark lips set in a determined line. She could feel the tingle of power resting on her tongue waiting to be unleashed with the release of a simple word. Thanks to Quillian working above, Nailah was able to help a few of the still stranded villagers get away. Though as anyone would expect Quillian was loosing steam. as afew newly formed typhoons were drawing quite close. Hopping onto one of the still intact homes, though barely, she held out her staff.

 

"Tak-kuseem." 

 

As she spoke the words, golden ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs formed but only for a second before vanishing in a flurry of golden smoke that was absorbed by Nailah's Was. Taking aim she threw the staff with incredible speed and strength, plowing right through two typhoons. The moment her staff made contact the typhoon dispersed literally splitting the treacherous winds apart. "Was." Calling her discarded staff back to her she prepared to perform the same action once again.

 

It seemed to take forever, but it really wasn't long before the winds died down, and the waters returned to their calm state. That could only mean the negotiations didn't go off without a hitch like they had hoped. Even so it was expected. "We should hurry." She mumbled rushing to the battle no doubt taking place.

[Ren✧]

Quillan touched back on to the ground, breathing heavily. The winds had died down, but not in the gentle way they had been hoping. They had been drawn into the mouth of the dragon's lair. He could feel the chaotic storm whipping about in there. A battle was taking place. Nailah ran passed him, running into the lair. The Egyptian Vanguard had done well. Having felt the world through the wind, Quillan had 'saw' her destroy entire cyclones with a simple phrase. It really was quite impressive...if not somewhat unnerving. 

 

Bringing himself to his feet, Quillan let a small smile touch his face. He couldn't let a girl show him up on the battlefield. Whistling, Quillan called Vex to his side. The storm spirit appeared. "How are the villagers?" Quillan asked. As much as he wanted to join the battle, he had been tasked with protecting the village. They are shaken up, but there is no immediate danger. Now get your ass in gear, we've got a battle to win. Nodding, Quillan hopped on the back of the storm spirit and raced into the lair of Ao Kung.

 

He was met with the sight of a powerful cyclone, tearing its way through the hall. Still in touch with the winds, Quillan instantly took in the scene. Leon had been caught in the twister, and at the moment was in the most danger. In his current state there was no way that Quillan could calm that storm that raged in the hall, but he could safeguard the fellow Vanguards. "Protect the others!" Quillan called to Vex as he leapt into the air. He instantly took control of the winds around him, rocketing himself towards the flailing Leon. Slicing through the malevolent winds, Quillan grabbed the Vanguard and quickly got out of the twister. Dropping to the floor of the hall, Quillan set down their leader. "Spears aren't that effective against the wind, are they?" 

[Lunar Origins]

"You aren't going to sway a dragon, Genzai," whispered Clair, more to herself than anything.  Now was her chance to shine;  however, given the situation, it seemed like they didn't want a fight.  Still, she readied herself, drawing Virgo.  She looked at the blade;  only two weeks had passed, and the blade already seemed like her own soul mate, connected to her on a level she didn't think possible.  She pointed the blade towards the dragon.

 

"Au Kuang, by Athena's justice and Virgo's edge, we will put you down." Her blade glimmered at her words, humming in unison as she spoke.  It seemed to approve.

 

Suddenly, Ao Kuang struck out at Genzai, to which Leon jumped out and interfered.  Not wanting Leon to have all of the glory, she attempted to make her move, but was blown off balance by the small tornado.  She gracefully jumped aside, landing just outside of the area of effect.  Leon crashed down next to her.

 

Looking at Leon, she offered her hand to help him up, but was slammed into the wall by Au Kuang's tail.  Virgo was thrown across the room.

 

"Damnit," she thought to herself.  "I guess I really do have to use these damn gloves."

 

Closing her eyes, she brought her hand to her forehead and drew the adornment down.  Greek iron cascaded from the back, forming a spartan-esque helmet covering her entire head.  Her hands caught ablaze, and she readied herself in a hand-to-hand stance.  "Oh, solemn broken god, grant me your strength, your burning soul, and your iron will, and allow me to cut through the sea!"

 

Reacting to her little speech, Virgo returned to her hands, catching fire as well.  "Thank god Hephaestus made these linked," she sighed.

 

She dashed forwards, with ethereal chains sprouting from her hands and back.  Au Kuang struck out at her, which she narrowly dodged; another lash like that, she thought, and she might be done for.  Successfully passing through Au Kuang, the chains caught fire, and she landed on the ground behind him, holding each link like a rope.  She pulled down, her strength augmented by the gauntlets, in an attempt to drag the beast down with her.

 

"I hope this works," she wondered.

[Kyng's Old Account]

Leon was flying through the air, completely unaware of his surroundings, the sheer force of the gales this God whipped up being far more than he could withstand. As such when Quillan drew him out of the tornado, he shook his head to regain his bearings. Looking to the fellow Vanguard, he smiled and shook his head. "No, no they're not." Leon admitted, very aware that these winds would be too strong for any real spear-based damage he could throw, as the winds were just too strong.

 

"What's worse, Quillan, is that without direct sunlight, my Solar Spears can't even lay a scratch on Kuang's scales." Leon went on to say, scowling as he stumbled up back upon his feet, looking towards their enemy in front of them. Leon had a sudden pang, a strong sensation of uselessness. This was the first time such a thing had happened to him, being absolutely outclassed. The only real effort he could do now was direct melee, but Ao Kuang was in such a rage, he would likely be swatted away before dealing any significant damage.

 

"Quillan, where's Nailah?" Leon asked concerned, looking around for his fellow Egyptian comrade, before taking a deep breath and looking across to the battlegrounds. It seemed that Genzai took an opportunity to prevent Ao Kuang from attacking to try reason with him, but after those thirteen seconds, the Dragon God broke free of his powers and barked out loud. "I need not concern myself with you common rats!" Following this, of course, he lashed out his body at Genzai and towards Clair.

 

Clair notably dodged this, now armed with her chains and was trying to drag down the Dragon God. Finding these chains a nuisance, Ao Kuang thrashed inside their grasp for a moment, before ultimately throwing them off of him. The strength of Clair alone could not hold back a God, despite how brave the effort was. It was this that gave Leon an idea. As such he shouted out "Clair, do that again, but let me help you; together we might be able to hold him down!"

 

Leon knew this wouldn't be the case, but he could summon his Manticore to help. As such, he got back up and made himself notable to the Dragon God, readying a now more heavier spear, as a distraction. He hoped this effort would give Clair time, as he summoned Martyxwar, in order to further gain Ao Kuang's attention. "Nailah, Quillan, Genzai! When we hold this thing down, you must attack his underbelly!" Leon ordered out, spotting the changing in the tone of scales suggesting a weak spot.

 

Ao Kuang, in the meanwhile, was still furious. After another roar, he smashed his tail into the walls of the palace, letting the sea water flood in and significantly decrease the amount of land the Vanguards had to operate. Whipping up another strong wind, he created a mighty storming typhoon that ravaged with the water, in hopes to punish the Vanguards even more so. Then, when spotting Leon and his unit, he began to fire blasts of concentrated wind in hopes to destroy them, though they managed to evade Kuang, barely.

 

The pressure was on.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

Thankfully the new wings Genzai had on his back stopped him from being flung too far. This was getting way out of hand...and there only option was attack. Then Shinto Vanguard descended slowly towards the ground, with a now even fiercer determination in his eyes, as he stabbed his blade into the ground. Once done, he lifted both arms to his sides as his hands glowed with a bright blue aura as two water puddles formed beneath his arms.

 

"Embrace the light...out from the deepest blue, bring forth your power to protect my allies! Heed my calling...by your might, become the lightning rod against our enemies strikes! COME FORTH MY UNITS!! KAME AND ZERI!!!" he said in a demanded tone, as both Kame and Zeri from the puddles.

 

What...summoning us both now?

"Genzai-san, what's the matter?"

 

"Focus on the present you two. I need all the help I can get..." Genzai said, with a look of fatigue showing on his face. He hopped on Kame and grabbed his blade. "Go Kame! Zeri, follow close behind for our combo!"

 

[url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HlwLq4cQXg]Fairy Tail OST ~ Fire Dragon vs Flame God[/url]

 

The Units did not argue as they nodded, Kame retreating in his shell and giving Genzai a surfing ride towards Ao Kuang. Zeri floated right behind, preparing for the combo.

 

The three closed in on the East Sea at an alarming rate, as Genzai prepared himself, as he thrust the katana in front of him. "Ryujin Kenbu! 2nd Form! Ame no Danmaku!" he said, as the rain senbon struck at Ao Kuang.

 

Shocking Venom!! Zeri said, as the invisible set of needles were shot out along with the rain senbon. Now, with a bit of hope, Ao Kuang wouldn't be able to do much. But apparently Genzai wasn't convinced enough. Jumping off Kame, he took to the skies once more...as he looked at the Dragon King again. The wings dispersed from his back and then struck Ao Kuang as ice spikes, as he began to fall...landing on top of Zeri's head.

 

P-Please...just cease the violence... the Shinto Vanguard thought, beginning to feel his breath grow shallow. He was exhausting himself...but he had to go on.

[Hotaru987]

Despite Nailah getting a head start on Quillian to the lair, he some how managed to beat her to Ao Kuang's room. When Nailah arrived he was already in the process of rescuing Leon from the violent twister that Ao Kuang had created. Though she didn't have much time to consider much else as Ao Kuang was still thrashing about madly. His tail was coming straight for her, too quick for her to completely dodge, but then again she didn't need too.

 

"Suarafa." As before, when the words passed her lips the hieroglyphs appeared, again turning into golden mist. Ao Kuang's tail was suddenly right in front of her, but short of hitting her it stopped momentarily before begin thrown off of an invisible barrier that rippled when hit. Though it didn't phase Ao Kuang as his thrashing seemed to only increase. It was then she heard Leon ask where she was while looking quite concerned. "I'm right here." Nailah answered appearing next to him and Quillian. Around this time Genzai was attempting to speak to Ao Kuang yet again, but it was a failed attempt. Clair also tried her hand at restraining the dragon by use of chains she conjured, but she alone wasn't strong enough to stop the god for more than a few seconds. 

 

Fortunately, Leon gained an idea from that. Instructing Clair to hold him down again, though this time Leon would assist her in keeping the dragon god subdued. Once they dragged him down, the rest of them were too attack the dragon's underbelly. "Sound's like a plan." Nailah readied her staff, waiting for the golden opportunity. She only had two Words left before she would have to wait 10 minutes. If they didn't beat the dragon god now, then Nailah would be close to useless for 10 minutes. Unfortunately for Nailah she found herself blown back by the winds Ao Kuang created, slamming harshly against the walls before falling into the rising water. 

 

Quickly standing up, she noticed another typhoon blowing them back further. Genzai was attempting to engage Ao Kuang directly, both of his units summoned. "That's right. Come Baruti." The hieroglyphs for Baruti appeared, before coming together and then changing into a large baboon that would easily reach the height of 6ft if it stood on it's hind legs. The moment he was summoned his wise eyes surveyed the situation before eyeing Nailah.

 

"I assume you ran out of Words." He knew he was correct from Nailah's nervous grin, "How many times have I told you. You mustn't use-"

 

"I know, I know but scold me later. I really need your help." With a sigh Baruti gave in, and Nailah grinned, "Right, time for that typhoon to go bye-bye. Tak-kuseem." Thanks to Baruti's presence Nailah had gained an extra 10 Words, which would be a great help. Though after using so many Word's already, Nailah was already feeling tired and exhausted. As she threw her staff at the Typhoon in vanished, and with Baruti behind her as a brace she was able to keep herself steady during the turbulent winds. Hopefully that would buy enough time fore Clair and Leon to do their thing.

[Lunar Origins]

Clair looked at Leon and simply grinned.  Her plans would come to fruition, at least, with the lion-boy's help.

 

"Right.  I'll get right on-"

 

Clair was unexpectedly hit in the head with a blow from the tip of Au Kuang's tail.  She tumbled down into the water, losing one of her gloves in the process.  "Shit," she said under her breath.  She barely managed herself out of the water and onto the clear land, before shooting another look at Leon.

 

"I don't think I can use that ability again," she said, panting a little.  Her vision blurred, and focused in and out.  With her remaining glove, she formed a chain in it's grasp, the flames burning brighter than before.  The chain was connected to the hilt of Virgo, instead of her body, and her glove.  "...but, I can sure as hell try."  With a grin, her left arm burst into flame.  "Aurum Dash."

 

The chain grew in her hand and she nimbly, although appearing rather tipsy while doing so, dashed around Ao Kuang, wrapping the chain around his body.  As she finished- Au Kuang was, with no doubt, thrashing around, she pulled on him with a last tug of strength, hoping to topple the beast onto his back.  She impaled Virgo into the ground.

 

"Oh virgin blade," she began.  "Return to the earth, and seal this chain in a watery tomb!"  She stomped the hilt into the ground, and the blade slid in like butter, almost melding with the very ground itself.

[Kyng's Old Account]

Leon, overhearing Genzai, smirked and nodded to his manticore. His ally had given them the distraction they needed in order to get behind Ao Kuang. As such, watching Genzai and his own units unleash their attack, the Vanguard and his manticore marched behind the Dragon God, waiting for Clair to make her own move. The pair of them made a dash behind Ao Kuang, both as swiftly as they could without losing any breath, in order to ensure that, well, they'd have enough energy to keep the Dragon downed.

 

Ao Kuang, in the meanwhile, roared out as he spotted Genzai making his alarmingly fast attack. His attack had, as predicted, managed to knock him back. He let out a bark of anger from the blows, phased by the ability the Vanguard showed, but very swiftly, he managed to recover from the paralysing effect, as a God would, and the fact that he had Dragon Scales did somewhat halt how deep the needles could reach.

 

By then, of course, it was too late for the Dragon. Nailah had negated his winds, and very swiftly afterwords, Clair did her graceful flight over the Dragon, the chains easily dragging the Dragon back down to the ground. Letting out a roar, he began to thrash out at the chains, and Clair's grasp was initially beginning to weaken as a result, however not only did her sword act as the perfect pin to keep the chains on, Matryxawar grabbed and heaved Ao Kuang down into the earth with his might. Not only this, but Leon was not taking any risks; he generated his Assegai, and thrusted them into the floor through the chains' loops, and if that wasn't enough, he too held down Ao Kuang.

 

"LET ME GO!" The Dragon God roared. He was, again, humiliated to be so powerless. Leon smirked. Now, demands could be made. Normally, kicking a guy when he was down was frowned upon, but...well, this was clearly justified.