[IC] The Three Realms War [A DMC, Bayonetta and Darksiders RP]

[Sho Minazuki]

The Three Realms War

Prologue

Barlour City. Not exactly the most hospitable city, and not a popular place to go either. Nothing but the whisperings of strange happenings and raving lunatics about the infallible existence of heaven, has only attracted people of faith or supernatural curiosity, but little do people know is that those rumors that keep most away are not far from the truth. Even now minor occurrences and incidents plague the city, and by now the residents know not to speak of it, nor do they involve themselves in it. They know behind each one is a demon, or something supernatural. As normal human beings, they know in their instincts not to mess with something that could end them swiftly and with ease. This is where the Demon Hunters Organization comes in, many demon hunters have chosen to take residence here, or visit often. Their job is to hunt demons, and keep the city from being taken over by them.

Of course, this isn't the only city that is thriving with otherworldly life. Many others as well, some say they hold entrances to heaven, and then there was that one city that had a giant mysterious tower running straight through it. In their own rights, they were cities filled with a dangerous excitement, but it just so happens this city, Barlour, will be where most of the fun begins.

So let's begin shall we?

"The beginning of the end"

---

@Kafka Komedy@Lugubrious

Every month since the fall of the old Order of the Sword, they and the Demon Hunters Organization have a meeting to exchange information and goods. It's a setup that is designed to create a team work dynamic between the two organizations that were once at minor odds. More or less the Order was under stipulation of illegal activities, that were exposed by Dante and Nero. The arrangements were that the Order share what information they have on the demon world, and what they know about demons, so that the DHO can better equip or prepare their hunters for more effective countermeasures.

Of course, just between the two was what it had been for awhile, up until three months ago, it was only them two, but soon came Gilgamesh Incorporated. They had always designed and sold gear to the Demon Hunters Organization, as well as other militants around the globe who had anti-demon teams. This meeting was now added in with Gilgamesh. They proposed that they design gear to suit demon hunters in the field, as well as Order of the Sword members, their representative will be coming shortly.

For now, what lay in front of Maria Dahl, was a large table seated by two so far, four if they included Maria herself, and one of the knights from the Order. The two now sitting across from Maria were two recognizable people within the Demon Hunters Organization. Lady, who distinguished herself as a skilled hunter, they say despite being completely human she can rival even the strongest demons. The other was Sevrin, only recently did he start representing the organization at meetings such as this.

"I hope you like the arrangements, good meeting rooms in Barlour are difficult to come by. That said, I sure hope our friends at Gilgamesh like them too, hm, Maria? This I believe is our second meeting at one of these", he noted. Indeed this was the second time they had met. Maria herself had only recently in the last few months been appointed head scientist after distinguishing herself. Lady Kyrie had suggested to her to try going out for once, and one of the other scientists who used to be doing these suggested this to her. Not exactly the kind of 'going out' Kyrie probably meant... But seeing new places was interesting, plus she was being given information on demons and demon locations first hand. It was ideal for her.

"Gilgamesh have never been late to one of these... Although I got word that it's going to be with one of their partners today, a real genius at weapons design. I even had him touch up Kalina Ann for me, best investment I've made yet. Still, to bring a partner... We might as well start serving tea and cakes next month, these are starting to become more like parties than a serious meeting...", pretty soon Gilgamesh Inc. representatives would be here and the meeting can start. Though this wasn't going to be a simple meeting on weapons and demons and research... The last month has been turbulent.

---

@Lmpkio@I-Am-X

A human city... It's been quite some time since these demons have seen such a place. Or rather more accurately, a demon and a half. Blair an esteemed general of Mundus, even following his fall to Sparda, Mundus still commanded such respect that the demons below him never sought to overthrow him, such was Blair as an example of this loyalty, despite his ruthless methods. Beside her was yet another one of Mundus' generals, but only recently was he chosen, as in, just around two decades ago, in comparison to Blair's several to a dozen hundred years. This man and half demon was Gideon Al Ghul. Long has he rid himself of his humanity as he claims, even as that blood still runs through him, but as far as Mundus was concerned, he had proven his loyalty, and pursuit of power. A pursuit of power was something any demon respected, especially if they still knew their places.

Still, their task here today was simple. Find what is causing the wider rifts between the human world and the demon world, and assist in their destruction, so that Mundus may fully walk this world once more, and lay claim to it, to finish what he had started two thousand years ago before his finest general Sparda had betrayed him. Even as the rain poured down upon them as they stood atop a building overlooking a cafe, they would remember Mundus' fury, every time this topic was ever spoken of. It was a moment of great disgrace for Mundus, one he has not forgotten.

The two had no interest in the other, and as it stands the both of them were more competitors than allies. On the one hand Blair was more the loyal warrior, so in her mind, Gideon who joined for power, may still be a rogue threat to Mundus. If Mundus somehow stood in Gideon's way one day, he would have no hesitation to fight back. Still, their objectives were the same. It was now up to them, whether they should split up, or walk together.

---

@EnterTheHero

Sent by Father Roderick, Silas was sent to Barlour City to investigate the wall between the human realm, and heaven. The desire was to repair it, so that they may continue maintaining the balance of the world, but little did either know, this balance was about to be torn to shreds no matter what they did. Still it did not stop them from trying.

Silas was currently in a cafe to wait out the rain, a few tools were given to him by Father Roderick. As he said, this town was a hive of scum and demonic villainy, there were probably ones worse than this one he said, but generally it was still a pretty dark place. What Silas was given was what looked like a pocket watch, but it would react in the presence of demons. Although... It was curious, because ever since he got to the cafe, it's been reacting nonstop. Normal people can't see it, but it also points in the direction of demonic power, and it was pointed to the top of a building. Between the dark night and rain, he couldn't see a thing, but the watch was telling him... There was a powerful demon right there, within eyesight... Would he investigate? Or would he avoid it?

---

@Lazo@Hantu Kongkek@itano123

The rain did little to deter the burning form of Fenn, but despite him technically being out of his element, it only served to create an ominous steam around him. Maybe a little irritating, but it certainly made it easier to fight this human. Never has he seen a human with such power and tenacity, and one who looked near the end of their lives too. What was the saying...? In a profession where men die young, beware the old ones. So beware he was, as he carefully tread around the one who calls himself Roughneck. The park plaza was currently empty what with the rain, so it was the perfect battlefield right now.

Not too far off was Zio Heart, who was in the shade, and actually smashed against the wall. Apparently he tried to speak with Fenn, who was simply annoyed and swatted him aside. Although at the very least, he wasn't drenched from the rain... Still, what would he do. Continue trying to reason with Fenn? Or join in and fight...?

[Hantu Kongkek]

"Hey Sparky. Hangin' on alright back there?" Snider, for a split second, turned his head back to call toward the other demon hunter referring to himself Zio Heart.

Snider's body was facing directly toward his opponent, a tall, wolf-like demon. The muscles in Sniders arms popped out, making themselves visible as he gripped tightly against the pistol-grip of his machine gun. The barrel was pointed down, rain water trickling off the steel muzzle. Snider himself was drenched, lengthy beard completely soaked, bogging down the veteran hunter. The stock of his machine gun was pressed against the pocket of his right shoulder, beard parted away from the particular area. The bipod was folded inward, held in Snider's left hand. His finger was off the trigger, the tip of his index finger pointed out toward the ground. The hunter grimaced, glaring threateningly at his demonic foe.

Squared off, the demon hunter tread slowly around his hunt. With each step, the clattering of his two rocket-hammers against his studded leather belt was barely audible through the pattering of rain drops against the park grounds.

"Come on, fido." the hunter mocked Fenn. "Not scared of some old bag of bones like me, are ya'?"

[Kafka Komedy]

@Sho Minazuki

Mary stared idly at the two DHO representatives in front of her. She kind of knew them, but only professionally. Lady who, apparently, had some relation to the man who helped Nero reveal the old Order and change it into what it was now. Sevrin she knew even less about. She had met him last month, but she was really trying to get into the groove of things last time. That was her first official meeting of any kind really, so she didn't pick up much information. Hopefully this time would be more of a success.

Mary's ears perked up a little as Sevrin asked her a question. She responded with a small 'hm.' and gave the room a direct lookover. It wasn't exactly fancy, just seemed like an old room that had been touched up. Sort of dark even, though that did make the room seem a bit cooler. At least it wasn't leaking from the heavy rains outside. "It's alright. A little musty and dusty. I hope you didn't pay too much for it." She finally answered.

She paused and looked around again. The meeting should have started by now, hadn't it? But it appeared they were missing some people. And by process of elimination the empty seats belonged to Gligamesh Inc. Though this was only her second meeting, she had knew they weren't the kind of people to be late. She had done some research on them in college, and they were very much an official company. In a different world she may have even been working with them. But the point was it wasn't in the company's nature to be late.

She pulled what appeared to be a cup of coffee from her bag and began drinking from it, since she had seen people on TV drink coffee at meetings. She wasn't even really a huge fan of coffee; she added about 15 packs of sweetener to it before drinking. After a quick sip, she posed a question to everyone else there, even the Order knight, sure that they had been here longer than her. "Gilgamesh isn't usually late, right?"

[Lazo]

Fire and steel.

Under the pungent smell of sweat and chemicals, diluted as it was by the falling rain, this human reeked of it. It was a very familiar smell to the beast staring across at the hunter from slitted, amber eyes.

The monster’s name was Fenn, and a few others had come before this one, seeking to slay him – as all valiant warriors were to slay dangerous beasts that appeared within their domain, he supposed. In his experience, battle required little to no justification. So far, all who found him had met their end at the demon’s claws.

Their fragility was shameful, but what more could be expected of vermin?

His mind had not been changed on first seeing the two men. Neither looked particularly remarkable to the large beast, towering well over the hunters even when prowling on all fours, but this unimpressive appearance seemed to be a staple of humanity as a whole. Fenn had attempted to avoid them, not caring for another disappointing opponent.

When they managed to catch his trail, then chased and forced him into a confrontation, however, his interest was piqued.

He was of a mind to test them.

The younger of the two – something that became immediately apparent the moment he opened his mouth – had approached him and tried to settle matters peacefully. The naiveté was astounding. Had they truly wished for a peaceful solution, they should have known better than to seek him out. The demon hoped the one blow he had delivered to the whelp adequately conveyed his thoughts on the matter. This was the first time he felt he could enjoy himself in this world, and he would not be robbed of the opportunity.

The one smelling of conflict taunted him. Fenn bared his fangs, his mane flaring into a blaze with a sizzling sound. From between the links of chain enveloping arms like tree trunks, licks of flame peeked out. Slitted eyes followed the human’s movement, while keen ears listened for any hint of interruptions, or of the other hunter getting up.

Woefully unaware of his rightful place, was this one. Unlike the boy, however, this one had remained at a prudent distance, far enough that Fenn could not simply swat him aside. It meant little. The distance could be closed in a single bound. Still, he matched the human’s pacing, the wet scales that covered most of his body reflecting the fire dancing along his extremities.

“Terrified.” The voice was coarse and cavernous, more of a growl than a word, but the irony was clear to anyone listening. “I have been sorely disillusioned by your companion. I fear you will be just as disappointing.”

The demon stopped, his pacing having brought him near some of the plaza’s benches. With an ease that spoke to the beast’s strength, he reached for the closest one and tore it out of the concrete before throwing it towards the hunter. Fenn launched himself after it with a roar, ready to crush the man under a ton of muscle, claws and fangs.

[Hantu Kongkek]

Snider's reaction was quick and instinctive. It was easy enough to see his opponent reach for the bench. Snider gave his opponent a second to sit down, assuming that he wanted to die peacefully. Snider was merciful in such a way. However, as the bench was torn from the ground, Snider picked his gun up. Using the two blades at the side of his gun's barrel, he poked into the wooden bench, one blade rammed into a different wooden board, splitting the wood. Joanna's bore was pointed directly in the space between the two boards.

As Fenn came close, Snider slipped his finger quickly into the trigger well. Before the wolf demon got too close- just about enough for Snider to smell his opponent's rancid dog-breath- the trigger was pulled with a sudden, forceful slap. Snider's index finger curled tightly around the trigger as a barrage of bullets flew from his machine gun. The sheer force of the machine gun and how it shook combined with the bullets firing rapidly out split the bench into several pieces flying into the air and onto the ground.

Snider held his trigger finger for a good five seconds, enough for him to expend around the area of 20 bullets.

[Lugubrious]

From the vault of heaven streamed an eager deluge, blanketing the land in a cloudy gloom and dampening all things that lay upon it. Few things could seem more everyday ordinary to the people of Barlour City and their streets, except perhaps for movement, worry, and contention. An uncountable number of times the rain washed the gray streets, cleaning them in only the literal sense, yet never did those fallen droplets spatter upon the same old things. From the quietest street to the most neglected ally, the city lived, if only there were eyes to witness what strange things lived in those lonely, portentous places.

For instance, any individual with at least a cursory knowledge of the unusual, poking his or her eyes out from beneath a hood or umbrella during the crossing of Central Way, could behold a most interesting sight. A lone figure, shielded against the melodically beating rainfall by a green hoodie, strode hurriedly along the concrete sidewalk. Of course, men in hoods often rushed along this particular avenue, seemingly never wanting for distraction from whatever nebulous business demanded their attention, but the observant eye could spot two oddities about this rainstorm stroller. The intricate pattern of his hoodie, like a sea of crashing waves in ancient oriental art, appeared rather luminescent on such an overcast day, though of course this could be inferred as a manifestation of the clothing’s quality—the water did, after all, roll off it unnaturally well for cloth. More perplexing, however, was that followed in the man’s wake. The silvery rain, earnest to get to the earth, found itself interrupted and was forced to splash across the frame of some tall, humanoid shape behind him, yet never did there appear anything more than the vaguest silhouette.

Before long, the man rounded a corner, and his rain-stifling shadow followed. No people walked this little detour, no doubt due to the well-known canine guardians that threatened any trespassers. Down the side-street he obliviously walked, ignoring the growls from either side. Finally, two of the guardians jumped up from their resting places to block his path, and the man stopped abruptly. For a moment the two creatures seemed content in a job well done, but the intruder didn’t bother to let down his guard. In the flickering yellow light from the glass-paned buildings that lined the street, bizarre shadows threw themselves across the animals’ bodies, making them look ghastly, and even monstrous. Curious, the hooded man watched, the rain running freely across his shoulders and head, as the array of light and shadow muddled –or rather, elucidated?- the dogs’ forms. Before even a moment could pass, the two nightmarish beasts launched themselves at the man.

He flinched, and the demons lurched to a stop in midair. Looking upward, Souta gave a wry smile at the nothing that suspended the Minions above the ground. Without a care in the world he sauntered in, walking right in between the slobbering, clawing beasts. An audible sigh echoed through the slender sidestreet, though not Souta’s doing. The voice that followed was slow, feminine, tremulous, and ghostlike. ”You could at least show some gratitude. That wouldn’t have looked nearly as cool if I hadn’t helped.” The two Minions hovered for a second longer before they were slammed together out of the blue, dropped, and abruptly impaled by two invisible mechanical legs.

Souta reached for the doorway at the end of the sidestreet before saying, ”That’s what I have you for, sis. To make me look cool.” He held the door open, waited a few seconds, and then went in.

With an acute sense of direction he made his way to the meeting room, arriving just in time to hear Maria’s question. ”We’re not late,” he clarified as he walked in, pulling off his hood. He took one of the seats, angling it and the other away from the table, and put his feet up casually. A moment later, the space behind him stirred, and from then air a tall, dark shape materialized. So large was her mostly-mechanical frame that it seemed incredible that Otsune could have arrived both unseen and unheard, but nevertheless she was here. Though she wore her long, dark hair in a severe bun and a friendly smile on her pale face, she seemed, not in small part because of the elongated proportions of her cybernetic limbs, like some fearsome blend of specter and skeleton. ”Good afternoon,” she murmured. ”There were demon scouts outside. Not anymore, though.” Otsune referred to the demise of the Minions as if their lives had been pieces of paper, lost in the wind. ”I am Otsune. Some call me Phantom. This is my brother, Souta. We represent Gilgamesh Incorporated. What can we do for our friends the Demon Hunters and the Order of the Sword?” Otsune inclined her head slightly, her dark eyes fixated on Sevrin.

[EnterTheHero]

Silas glared at the pocket watch in his hand, as though it would change the readings he was getting from it. No such luck, of course. He'd helped Father Roderick design the silly thing, anyway- he'd be surprised if it wasn't working properly. Which was part of the problem, of course- so much demonic activity in one city was not a good sign. He glanced over at Kazfiel and Sraosha- or at least, where he knew they were- sitting in front of the cafe. He couldn't see where they were with his naked eyes, phased into Purgatorio as they were, but he could sense their presence. It was small comfort, knowing how much demonic activity was in this place.

He looked back up at the building that the building that the pocket watch was directing him toward- most of the demonic energy readings were congregating there, which could mean one of two things. One, that there were an absurd amount of demons on that roof- unlikely, or he'd be able to feel them killing each other even now- or that there was a very powerful demon there. Or two of middling to high power. Either way, it was troubling. As was everything about this city. He sighed, standing up, fishing out some cash for the coffee he'd ordered, and gesturing to Kazfiel and Sraosha subtly as he walked across the street to an alleyway. He paid the rain no heed as he walked, except to malign the lack of useable light because of it. This next part would be easier if he had something to play with.

As he entered the alleyway, he gestured, a golden magic circle appearing in the air in front of him, a gateway to Purgatorio. He walked through, breathing deeply as he entered the parallel realm, smiling at his "wolves" as he looked upon them in their full glory, stroking Kazfiel's fiery mane, and feeling the pleasant crackle in the air from Sraosha's lightning aura- both of which would be significantly less pleasant to whatever was waiting for him on top of the building. He walked back out into the street, heedless of any traffic or pedestrians- they couldn't hurt him here.

It was still raining, though. Even jumping to a parallel world couldn't fix that.

As he walked up the street, he trained his eyes on the building ahead. It was faint, but there was definitely someone up there- two someones, by the look of things. And if the pocket watch was right... Not wanting to be caught off guard, he called one of Pleiades' facets to him, the blade gleaming in the half-light. He took aim at the corner of the building, only wanting a warning shot- something to get their attention. He focused his aim briefly, then fired, the blade travelling extremely rapidly, embedding itself in the masonry just below the pair's feet. That ought to elicit some kind of reaction...

[Lazo]

Fenn had to praise the human’s reflexes, if nothing else. The improvised missile he had thrown his way had been stopped on its tracks, kept at bay by a combination of sure-footing and a swift interception at the hands of the blades stuck at the end of the man’s weapon.

But in order to do that, the man had chosen to stand still at the face of the demon’s charge, and Fenn would not be halted nearly as easily. If the human sought to overpower him, he would find his efforts to be deeply inadequate.

As Fenn closed, hot in the heels of his projectile, the hunter’s machine gun let out its heavy report. Passingly familiar with this era’s weapons, the beast rose one of its thick arms, using it to shield its eyes. Metal slammed and plinked off against enchanted chain and hardy scales. Through the battle-haze descending on Fenn’s mind, the few bullets that managed to find the softer spots in his armor registered as little more than stabbing pinpricks to the hulking beast.

Pieces of the demolished bench were just beginning to clatter against the plaza’s floor by the time Fenn closed the distance with his quarry, and the arm that had shielded the demon’s face until then whipped out in a vicious backhand towards the hunter’s midsection.

[Lmpkio]

@I-Am-X

Balour City... It's been years since Gideon has been in this area, let alone in a human city for that matter. Before this mission, he would usually reside far away from major human civilizations, usually hanging around in local villages and small towns. Now he was sent here to find the strange cause of the widening rifts between both the human and demon worlds and ultimately destroy them. Once destroyed, the rise of Mundus will be inevitable as he will burn Earth to hell. He was young for a demon, or more correctly a Half-Demon, being only 400 years old and only being a general for two decades, yet he might as well look older. And yet, beside him, was Blair, another demon general, told to be over 2,000 years old, and yet looks to be quite young with stunning beauty. However, while Gideon does respect her, he has a gnawing gut-sensation regarding her rank and power. She was a full demon, while he wasn't, and this made him furious. This is hence why he wants to rid of all of his remaining humanity, to become a full fledged demon and overthrow Blair's rank and perhaps be able to take the throne one day.

But until that day, he must work hard and be undyingly patient...

Now back to the mission at hand. The two were approaching a split in the road, with one merging onto Reginald St to the left, and Hornthrone St to the right. Gideon sees this as a chance to be finally alone, for she has no interest in Blair whatsoever. However, if Blair somehow needed him to be close behind, he might as well follow for a bit until finding a way to disappear and search elsewhere. The choice was up to the higher ranking general.

"The road splits here," Gideon speaks with a rough, but chilly voice, "I suggest we split up, unless you happen to have plans yourself?"

He hopes that a separation will happen, but again, it was all up to Blair's decision.

[Hantu Kongkek]

Snider, with a quick flick up the wrist and a raising of his right shoulder, held his machine gun upward, creating just enough potential energy to cause a noticeable amount of pain as he swung out in a scooping motion. Seeing the large claw come toward him, Snider's reaction, like the last one, was to continue the assault.

As his weapon was pointed out, Snider pushed his shoulder against the stock, giving it a bit more push as he hopefully gored into the demon's hand. His left index finger stuck out, but the weapon was no longer balanced on his hands. Instead, the sling and Snider's shoulders kept the gun in place. His index finger pulled the trigger on Joanna's grenade launcher as a small, green, egg-shaped grenade whooshed forth from the small, metal tube with an audible FWUP. It shot in an arc underneath Fenn's arm, or perhaps over it. Snider didn't care whichever way it fired, only that it hit. He was even willing to be caught in its 15 meter range.

Snider's right hand was completely off the rifle, reaching inside his leather jacket. The insides shifted about. It seemed as though Snider was looking for something.

[Sho Minazuki]

@Lugubrious@Kafka Komedy

"No, they aren't", Lady's words were quite quickly spoken, it seems Gilgamesh and lateness did not go hand in hand. The time for the meeting hadn't yet started, meanwhile, Sevrin was looking at his watch.

"And 5... 4... 3... 2...", the door slid open as the representatives arrived. They introduced themselves, Otsune, someone Sevrin had known about, but never met personally, and Souta, all the same. If anyone delved into anything relating to Gilgamesh, whether it be their secret field agents, or their accomplishments in the field of development, both 'supernatural', and Gilgamesh's public sector, Souta would be a name that crops up. A genius inventor, and his sister, Gilgamesh's finest agent... It was an almost perfect pair of siblings. As soon as they had taken their seats, it was Sevrin who would lead this meeting. He had pressing matters to also share with them to report back to their superiors too.

"Now that everyone is here, welcome. We have matters to discuss, normally, these meetings would merely be an exchange of documents, and talking about new developments, but there is a more pressing matter that we must inform everyone here of first... Lady if you would please", he handed the floor over to Lady. She was the one who was a lot more involved in what's been happening.

"Thank you, now as I'm sure everyone here is aware, the rise in demonic activity has risen in the past month. Our statisticians at HQ are still calculating the scale, but it's at a scale like none we've ever seen, they say it's increasing rapidly though. Normally ones of this scale are limited to a single city, such as most recently Fortuna, or the Temen-ni-gru incident from years past. But we're seeing them in every city in the world right now, for the time being our hunters are working around the clock to keep them down, and I'm sure your agents and Order troops are doing the same", she began.

"Last week an old friend of mine and I have found the reason it's happened... How much do you all know about the Seven Seals?", she asked. It didn't seem to common knowledge, but perhaps Mary might have heard of it, due to her field. In any case...

"The Seven Seals are an old seal, and as the name suggests there are seven of them. They say that when they are broken, the apocalypse and the end times will come... One of those seals have broken. The timing is estimated to be around one month ago, when the demonic activity had begun. That said, these seals don't just hold back the demon world, they also hold back heaven too... I have friends in Vigrid who tell me some very 'nice' things about angels, but generally, we don't want heaven coming into this either",

"Indeed, it would be quite... Hmmm, messy? Basically this meeting today was to inform everyone here of this, our goal today is to formulate a party to find the next seal, and guard it. We've confirmed that these seals were destroyed by someone else, and was not a natural occurrence, so whoever is coming to break them, is going to appear at the next one. Intel suggests that the second one is right here in this very city",

"And so today, we would like the cooperation of the Order of the Sword and Gilgamesh to form a search and defend party", the explanation was done, now all that was left was the response of the other two parties here. Gilgamesh could mobilize troops at the click of their fingers, and the Order might be the best in terms of bringing lore and study related aids to find the seal, while the Demon Hunters could provide intel on demon appearances. It's not unusual for one or the other to help in jobs, so long as something was in it for them, but calling all three to cooperate was going to be a first.

[Lazo]

As ever, this human was proving far more tenacious than he had any right to be.

The man’s bayonet scraped and cut at the back of the demon’s hand. The weapon was pushed back by the impact, forcing the human into a turn that was bound to knock him off-balance, and would have dislocated a lesser man’s shoulder.

Had Fenn managed to continue his charge uninterrupted, the man would have been surely trampled under him. However, just as the weapon was swept back in Fenn’s direction, a peculiar noise reached the demon’s ears, along with the feeling of something tapping the center of his chest.

A thunderclap followed.

Fenn rocked back, a massive impact halting his momentum and forcing him onto his rear legs. He stumbled a step, swiftly becoming aware of a painful ringing in his years, followed by a dozen small aches across his body, where shrapnel had embedded itself between his scales. Tendrils of steam flowed from the wounds, the blood quickly evaporating as it touched the outside air.

That had been a kind of explosive, he realized, but was baffled by the idea that the human had chosen to use it in such close-quarters. He could not have been farther than four meters to cut at his claws. Had it been bravery or recklessness? Certainly, Fenn could not think of any other way the small creature could have avoided his charge at such close distances without leaving himself at his mercy than to make use of such dangerous toys.

Fenn’s eyes refocused, but the demon remained in his upright position, slightly hunched forward as he towered over the human. Steel clattered against the concrete as links of chain became unraveled.

“Such courage is wasted on your kind, Hunter,” he rumbled. “It will kill you as surely as I will.”

[I-Am-X]

@Lmpkio

Blair

Barlour City...... It's been some time, and that is saying something when you consider her age, several hundred years in fact, since she had seen a human city. It's funny if you think of it, well for her, considering she was a demon known to hide amongst humanity bringing forth a plague of fear and despair. Well, it wasn't exactly of her own volition. Hmm, I guess one can say that it came with the job, to sum it up more accurately, it was the time she was appointed to be amongst Mundus's generals. And well, as a general, they needed to stay behind in the Demon World to serve their 'King', of course.

Anyways, she wasn't here to reminiscence, there was work to be done. Looking behind her slightly as she kept walking, another demon was shown. Half of one, anyways. Yes, the one behind her was a half-demon, Half-human, Gideon Al Ghul. A child of a mere 400 years and a general for only 20 of those years. They were both sent here to accomplish a very simple task, find the thing or one responsible for causing the wider rifts between the human and demon worlds and obliterate them so that their Lord can walk amongst this world once more and claim it. He came close 2,000 years ago before being betrayed by his greatest general, It was a topic that always invoked unimaginable fury from Mundus whenever spoken.

It wasn't long before Gideon spoke up and offered a suggestion. Turning to him, It was clear he was up to something and whatever it was, he didn't want her around. She didn't mind, demons like him were quite common, especially the power hungry. It was fine as she didn't want him around either, he would only get in the way as she also had something in mind. While not power hungry, she too had another task, but that isn't important for the time being. Facing him with an expression devoid of emotion, she spoke only one word, "Agreed."

Offering nothing more, she turned around and headed down the opposite path alone, not turning back even one. Neither had any intention of working together from the start so it all works out. Who knows, Gideon could one day find himself making things easier for her, whether he intends to or not. With a rare smile, she faded from sight.

[Kafka Komedy]

@Sho Minazuki @Lugubrious

Mary's head whipped around as a man entered the room, and informed her that he 'wasn't late.' He lackadaisically got comfortable, pulling his jacket off and his chair out so he could sit down. Taking a glance at her phone confirmed that he wasn't late. He was exactly on time, actually. Glancing back up revealed a monstrous woman made of metal. It seemed she had taken a path to power opposite to Mary's biological experimenting. She was decked head to toe in body modifications, and judging by her silent approach, some sort of cloaking device too. She introduced herself and her brother, as well as explaining the reason they were late. Demons outside. Now Mary REALLY hoped Sev didn't pay much for this place.

Mary's face scrunched up a bit as Sev mentioned there was 'important business' before the meeting. Her second one and already something was happening? As Lady spoke about the increased demon rates, particularly the Fortuna incident, Mary frowned in displeasure, but was secretly happy to have more chances for demons and humans to interact. Also, more materials. She was already thinking up some sort of solution, but her thought process was stopped in it's tracks when Lady brought up the Seven Seals.

Mary hoped against all hope that what she thought had happened hadn't. From what she could find on the seven seals, breaking them all would lead to the apocalypse. Lady explained that, yes, one had been broken. Last month, so long ago! Mary was amiss at how she did not notice this trend. Of course the rise in demons wasn't natural... And, according to Lady, the next one was in this city. Priority #1 for this meeting was creating a strike team to make sure whoever was breaking the seals was stopped in their tracks.

"Hmm..." Mary mumbled, thinking things through. Well, there were a few choices here. With the Order's extensive knowledge oh divine lore it only made sense to bring one of them along. Nero made sense as a front line fighter, but she wasn't sure if he was available currently. She'd have to ask Kyrie about that. Obviously, Mary herself also made sense. She had been on a few field missions before, not many but a few. She would definitely be able help, was the point.

"I'll see how many Order knights we'd be able to spare, but I'd love to join personally. I'll also see if the Field Commander would be able to help. How many people do we need for this?" Mary said, before sipping on some of her coffee.

[Lmpkio]

@EnterTheHero

Gideon stood chillingly as he watches her go the opposite road. Finally he was alone for the time being. That is until Blair may find a clue and alert him of this. Otherwise, he'll just simply look for clues by himself and if he happens to find one, he'll keep it all to himself. After all, fellow demons do this all the time, simply by greed or power-hungry motivations. It was simply natural in their nature. After glaring at her going off her own route, he too walks his own path down to find some clues about the rifts.

It wouldn't be too long before Gideon would find a sword being planted down below his feet. A hostile is nearby and indeed he and Blair were not wanted. It could only lead to one thing. An Angel or Heavenly ally was here. He glances unfazed at the warning towards the opponent who threw it. It was a tall, shaggy, blonde haired person, with green eyes and stubble on his chin. Despite the black outfit, Gideon knows that this person is part of Heaven... a Lumen Sage from what he sees. His nose flares lightly as he stands motionlessly, glaring into his opponent.

"What do you want, Lumen Sage?" he asks with a sigh as he glares at his opponent with venomous yellow eyes, like a snake judging his opponent.

[Hantu Kongkek]

Snider snapped his neck back, digging his head into his shoulder and away from the blast as he held up his firearm to protect himself from as much of the explosion as possible. He was blown back what must have been twelve feet as the grenade exploded.

The loud sound of feet tapping against the ground was accompanied by the sound of trickling blood. In Snider's right hand, he held a syringe filled with a clear fluid. The front part of his clothes was blown almost completely off. His shirt became nothing more than the short sleeves. His jeans were ripped away, partially singed by the blast. His jacket and belt, however, remained surprisingly intact, bits of pants covering his unmentionables in an almost comically convenient fashion. He had two pieces of shrapnel stuck on him. One on his left thigh, a tourniquet already placed directly below it just above his knee, keeping the wound from bleeding; the other lodged in the right side of his chest, almost at his shoulder. It seemed reasonable to leave the bits of grenade in place, at least for the time being.

The needle was injected into Snider's right thigh, the hunter sticking himself with no hesitation, pushing the drug into his system. The needle was pulled out slowly and tossed away toward Fenn. The hunter took a deep breath in attempt to calm himself down and marshal his thoughts.

"Ah. That woke me up." Snider grumbled, trying to make light of his injuries.

The demon hunter stood erect, attempting to appear imposing before the much larger demon before him. "Such courage is wasted on your kind. It will surely kill you as I will" he mocked, parroting the demon. His right hand slowly moved toward the top of his weapon, pinching either side between his thumb and index finger. He lifted up the feeding tray, and as he did, the belt of ammunition fell to the ground, caught by Snider's foot. He kicked the links out, toward the demon, neither knowing nor caring that whatever made the demon sizzle under the rain also cooked the ammo. Instead, he used it as a distraction, as the hunter stepped off on his good leg, leaping off to the side of the demon and slinging his weapon to the back of his body.

[Lugubrious]

In good company, Souta couldn’t roll his eyes at Otsune, so he settled for a dry sort of smile while she did her thing. As good a thing as a sense of identity is, he always thought that his sister tried too much to fit into the ghostly persona ascribed to her by others. Even though she endeavored to be the epitome of dead-seriousness and eerie tranquility, her behavior struck him as might a manga hero with some sort of theme. Of course, the experiences she’d gone through surpassed the empathetic understanding of most people—perhaps the Phantom constituted her real self, after all. Souta felt like he knew his sister, having grown up by her side, but her ghostlike manner never failed to make him ill at ease. In the Phantom, only the most cursory traces of the sibling he loved remained.

Regardless of their familial ramifications, though, personas seemed terribly common in the ‘lucid underworld’, as Souta called the community of people wise to the nature of existence. Take these people, for example. The woman called Mary, decked out in antiquated clothes and possessed of skin nearly as pale as Otsune’s, could have passed for some sort of mannequin easily. By and large, Souta knew little of individual demon hunters, but he could easily imagine this woman cutting down creatures of heaven or hell, expressionless as a doll come to life to kill. The smartly-dressed man sported no overt themes, but all the same he exuded a sort of confident slyness that extended to how he talked. Were this some sort of movie, Souta would have instantly pegged Sevrin for a backstabber. In truth, nobody could indict him for anything more out of the ordinary than yellow eyes. Lastly, Souta expected that the Lady who sat before him was nothing like this in real life. After all, one couldn’t exactly go around their daily routine in a white business suit more revealing than certain types of swimwear.

Unwilling to let himself grow bored, he paid close attention to Lady as she began to brief him on the situation. As usual, Otsune might as well have not been there for all the presence she brought to the room, large as she was. News of a surge in demonic activity did not exactly surprise him. Over the past few months, Gilgamesh had been in overdrive, which meant a steady stream of souls for Regalia to treat. Less than a week ago, Souta completed his latest Devil Arm: Escre, a warhammer crafted from the soul of a demonic lich, capable of summoning spectral green skeletons to aid him just as they had done their previous master. It pleased him to no end. Mention of the seven seals thrilled him less. Only in rumors and references had Souta heard of them, yet he knew enough to be unhappy that any of them might be broken. For a moment he feared, albeit incredulously, that all seven were no more, but Lady soon set him straight.

He spoke up when the opportunity arose. ”I’m up for busting a few heads. Got a new Devil Arm I’m dying to test. Well, not dying, but you know.” Reclining, he placed his hands behind his head and expected Otsune to speak for Gilgamesh.

The soft, wispy tones of his sister obliged immediately. ”Indeed, I am here because Gilgamesh anticipated something important. We have sensors of our own. I have already sent the confirmation signal; additional operatives from the Reclaimers will arrive shortly. One more thing: we can expect angels to arrive as well, if they have not already.” The mechanical flower on her head flared for a moment as she gazed into the distance. Little clicks and whirs from her augmentations filled the silence that followed as she waited for a reply.

[Sho Minazuki]

@Lugubrious@Kafka Komedy

Sevrin | Meeting

"We should only bring the finest, we don't want to create too much noise. No excess, this isn't martial law we're trying to put down in this city after all, spread patrols around the city for demon activity, while having scholars and other troops to search and figure out where the Second Seal may be", Lady answered. She wasn't done though,

"We're glad we could come to this conclusion of cooperation, we have no reports of actual angels, but I suspect their agents are already in this city. Unlike demons, they're a more organized bunch, and some of them may be aware of the Second Seal too".

"Indeed. While we are looking for the one responsible for destroying the seals, make no mistake, some angels and demons, especially demons, have something to gain by destroying the seals. After all since time immemorial, both Heaven and Hell have wanted to rule over the human world", Sevrin cut in... So they needed to be prepared against both angels and demons. Demons were going to be a frequent threat, what with a widened gate and demons wishing to feast on human souls, but angels likely sent a more subtle response. They weren't going to see angels unless they were sent there with a purpose.

So for now, stay wary of demons most. The Demon Hunters Organization had already put out an alert for demon activity, and that's been ongoing for awhile. Even now, there were probably countless hunters in combat with demons all across the city.

"Well, if that is decided, then that will be all for now. We have our tasks, but we all like our independence, so we won't tell each other how to do our jobs. All the same, stay in contact as much as possible. Anything new, and you send word to all of us... Now then, let's get onto the normal meeting", Sevrin's demeanor went from his sly and more serious tone, to a more light-hearted one quickly as he pulled up a briefcase, and within it, two files. What he was referring to by the 'normal meeting', was a simple exchange of information and assets.

Order of the Sword will provide technical information on demons for weaknesses hunters can exploit in the field, or attributes Gilgamesh can use to make new weapons. Demon Hunters Association will provide information on rare demons for the Order to hunt and capture to study, and provide Gilgamesh a market and testing ground for their custom weapons. While Gilgamesh will provide equipment for capturing and fighting demons to the Order, and provide custom weapon services for hunters, who at this point are more than happy to test new equipment.

As soon as all the parties had handed their files to one another, trade agreements, confidential research documents, last-seen locations of demons and even angels occasionally, it was time to conclude the meeting.

"Well, it was nice meeting you all today... That concludes this month's meeting. I hope we see hear from each other again soon", Sevrin slyly referred to what they had agreed on regarding the second seal today, in any case, it was time for all of them to get to work. Sevrin and Lady after bowing out were the first to leave.

[Zarkun]

Barlour City-Wrath's arrival

@Lmpkio@EnterTheHero

The rain beat down on Wrath's black and red hair as he looked down on his first human city. Humanity, from what he had seen of the Third Kingdom, as Uriel had called them, was a mixed batch of crazy, stupid, and shouldn't have been born, among other attributes. His briefing had been barren of much information other than he needed to find the second seal and protect it. He thought back on the briefing, reliving it so he was sure he wouldn't make a mistake.

---

Wrath stood at attention in the center of the briefing room, Rage Bringer sheathed on his back and the Dealers' blades retracted so as to avoid seeming hostile to those of the Laguna Hierarchy that were there. He watched a Beloved enter and smirked at it, the memory of his skirmish, as short as it was, with one over three hundred years ago. That had been fun. Still, he didn't move until Uriel, who had brought him home after his time with the Makers, entered, two of her personal guard flanking her. "Wrath, I see you decided to stay this time." Wrath chuckled, a deep sound compared to many of the voices in the White City.

"I gave you my word, Uriel. I wouldn't go back on that. Besides, it was getting more difficult to avoid the Council's agents." Uriel nodded and a golden map of a world the Nephilim had never seen before appeared.

"This is the planet Earth. Upon it's surface reside the members of the Third Kingdom, Humanity. Long ago, before the slaughter of your siblings at Eden, the Charred Council imposed a treaty of peace between Heaven and Hell, that until the Seven Seals of Armageddon are broken, the two realms will leave each other and the humans be, until the Third Kingdom was ready to wage a war with us on equal ground. That peace, tenuous has it had been, was maintained until about one month ago by Human standards." Wrath raised an eyebrow and stepped forward, causing the Laguna to become edgy, but they didn't move to attack.

"Let me guess, one of these so called Seals has been broken." One of the more, in Wrath's opinion, tolerable angels from the Army of light spoke up.

"Show some respect for your superior, Nephilim. She-" Uriel cut him off.

"Yes, it has. We can't afford to send too many angels or Hell will catch on that we're there. So instead, you will go. Your mission is to find the Second Seal in the human city of Barlour and protect it." Wrath nodded and turned to leave the room, stopping at the door.

"And should the Council's agents find me?" Uriel hesitated before answering.

"May He watch over you then, Wrath."

---

The nephilim smiled as he returned to the present, the rain dripping down his face. He had gone to great lengths to conceal his presence in the city, but he itched for battle as he sensed the surge of Demonic energy around him, though at varying distances. Part of his training growing up in his first fifty years before he left Heaven was an identification of allies such as the Lumen Sages, who were the one exception to Wrath's conclusions of humanity. At least for now. We'll see how it holds up after I meet one. He had also sensed a Sage, but he had his orders and with a wistful look in the direction of the strongest demon energy, the nephilim set off into the rain.

The city, as he walked, seemed like a testament to how far the Third Kingdom had come since their birth into existence. However, it was also a testament to how easily influenced by the other two kingdoms they were. Still, he held no contempt for Humanity and so he felt no need to pick a fight with anyone. However, he was faced with the challenge of figuring out where to begin his search, as he knew nothing about they layout of Barlour. "Hmmmm...perhaps the city's underbelly. Would seem like a reasonable place to start and a safe place from prying eyes." He paid no heed to where he walked, simply sidestepping to avoid running into people out of habit.

When he looked up, he realized he'd found himself between a Lumen Sage and a..."Half-Demon?" He legitimately stopped and turned to face the young man. "And here I'd thought that Uriel was always telling stories."

[kapuchu]

Rain...

Rain was annoying. Like tiny motes of defiance that all but begged to be torn asunder and made to suffer, whose existence seemed to be centered around being an inconvenience to whoever happened to walk underneath an open sky. Not only did it soak clothes, but it also made hair mat and sticky. Now those were only minor inconveniences, but even for a being whose age approached the third millennia such things had a habit of getting on one's nerves.

Especially when the wearer of said clothes had gone to great lengths to remain unnoticed when taking them a few days prior.

A young woman walked along the streets of Barlour city, casting the occasional baleful glare at the grey and pouring sky. Her long, fiery hair hanging limp down her back and shoulders, wet and without much of its usual lustre in its soaked state. It stuck to her neck and cheeks, not quite framing—however, still emphasizing—her emerald eyes and full, curved lips. Her clothes fared no better: an already tight, white, long-sleeved shirt clung to her body like a second skin, showing off her already noticeable curvaceous body. Her simple denim jeans and dark blue vest worn over her shirt, shared the same, wet fate as everything else.

Perhaps the only, real, oddity about this woman, were a pair of nigh invisible, vertical slits on the back of her vest and shirt.

She had come to Barlour city in search of employment, but such was a rare thing for her. Be they humans, angels, or even demons—she cared not. A fight was a fight, and she could always get something out of that, be it information, power... or new skills.

Even were her opponent, or employer, one of the supernaturals, she wasn't deterred. For she was one of those supernatural creatures herself.

Her name was Lily

And she was a Demon.

Unlike most Demons Lily did not find herself obligated to join Mundus, or whatever other Demon Prince or Princess thought themselves to be the next conqueror of the human world. It was pitiful, really, how limited their ambitions were. Ruling Earth after a bloody war that would most likely destroy half the planet, if not more? To rule over nothing would be as empty as never ruling at all. There were other, smarter means of gaining dominion of the earthly realm, and not all of them required blood being shed. At least, not by the Demons themselves. As a direct result, she had chosen not to affiliate herself with any of the demonic armies, choosing instead to wander the earth herself, gaining influence and power wherever she could. That search had brought her to Barlour, and now she was here... soaked, perturbed, and desperately looking for something to occupy her interest before she lashed out in nothing but sheer annoyance.

Relief came not long after, in the form of both explosions, shouts and growls. An eager smile spread across her rose coloured lips. Bending down in her knees she called upon her demonic powers, pushing off of the ground as a pair of large, webbed wings sprouted from her back and flapped down hard, propelling her into the air without a care in the world for who saw her. What hunters she had met during the past hundred or so years were a far cry from anything resembling a challenge. With modern weaponry like firearms and the like, Humans had grown lazy and overconfident. Just fill something with lead bullets and it was finished. Gone were the skilled swordsmen or the lightning fast archers. Now all they relied on was brute force in the form of easily predictable guns.

She caught a draft and soared towards the sounds of battle, breathing in a much needed breath of fresher air from up-high. She could see the fighting from far away up in the air, but only one of the contestants was recognizable, in part due to his size, but also the fact that he was quite literally on fire. And he was also an old friend.

A flap of her wings sent her on her way towards the flaming hellhound and whoever was unlucky enough to be his adversary—not that the identity of him or her mattered—intent on, at the very least, watch the fighting as it happened, if not partake in it depending on which way it was going. Or maybe just for the fun of it.

It was a curious sight, she decided, circling far above the battleground like a vulture waiting for already present predators to leave so that she could partake in the carrion feast. Fenn, despite being a hulking behemoth even amongst his own kind, seemed to be having a difficult time. Most of the time, the flaming hairball barrelled over any opposition like a freight train with a broken brake. This time, however, someone seemed to be giving him a difficult time. And a human no less, if the use of fire arms and less than graceful movements were of any indications.

Perhaps, she thought, this place would be a little more interesting than first anticipated.