Chapter 1: Night Raid
Summary:
In the rotting underbelly of New York City, what should have been a routine hit for the I.M.P. team is about to spiral into their most insane night yet. Just as they close in, their target is brutally "snatched" away and slaughtered before their very eyes by a mysterious interloper.
Akaza, the Upper Moon Three, has arrived.
Displaced from a life-or-death battle in his own dimension, the ancient demon manifests amidst the bewildered Hellborn mercenaries. A clash of eras ensues: the advanced killing technology of Hell versus the terrifying martial arts of a demon from the past.
But Akaza is bound by a code—he will not harm women. However, he views male "weakness" as a sin that must be purged. Moxxie is marked for death the moment their eyes meet.
Can Moxxie survive the grasp of this apex fighter? And what can Blitzø and Millie do... when their bullets and battleaxes prove meaningless against a "Demon" of this caliber?
*If you really want to draw something related to my novel, you can draw it, whether it's beautiful or not, as long as you draw it with all your heart.
Chapter Text
Abandoned Industrial District, New York City - Night
Silence draped over the forgotten sector of the city like a shroud. Pale moonlight washed over the ruins of a steel mill, where rusting girders stood tall like the ribcage of a prehistoric beast. Long shadows stretched across the ground, clawing at the earth as the wind whistled through shattered windows. The only sound was the rhythmic drip-drip of water falling from a corroded pipe into a stagnant puddle below.
Perched atop the highest grain silo, Moxxie lay flat in a sniper’s prone position. His eyes were glued to the scope of a high-powered rifle, the crosshairs fixed steadily on a narrow alleyway below. Beads of sweat gathered on his forehead—a mix of mission anxiety and the humid night air.
MOXXIE
(Whispering into comms)
Target is in the kill zone, sir. He’s entering the designated perimeter... alone, exactly as the intel stated.
The response crackled through his earpiece, sounding bored and irritated. It was Blitzø.
BLITZØ (V.O.)
Ugh, Moxxie, stop trying to make your dick sound bigger than it is. It’s just one fleshy dirtbag. Just clip him so we can get back to the office. I have a My Little Pony marathon to finish, and you’re ruining my immersion.
Down below, in the shadows of the alley, two figures lurked. Blitzø leaned against a brick wall, arms crossed, idly twirling an antique flintlock pistol. Beside him, Millie was stretching her limbs, her eyes sparkling with manic excitement. A massive battle axe rested casually on her shoulder.
MILLIE
(Thick Southern accent)
Ooh, sweetie! I am just itchin’ to spill some guts tonight! I sure hope this fella’s a big one—more meat to carve means more fun!
BLITZØ
Keep your panties on, Mills. You’ll get your fun... Hey, Loonie, what’s the sitch?
He glanced toward the black I.M.P. van parked a distance away. Inside, Loona was scrolling through her phone, looking like she would rather be anywhere else in the multiverse.
LOONA (O.S.)
(Muffled through comms)
Coast is clear... just the usual dumbass human walking to his death. God, this is boring. Can we hurry this up?
Suddenly, the target’s footsteps stopped. Blitzø and Millie snapped their heads toward the mouth of the alley. A man in a suit stood there, frozen... his back turned to them.
MOXXIE (V.O.)
Wait... something’s wrong. He stopped moving.
BLITZØ
Did the fucker see us?
Before anyone could react, the man in the suit collapsed. He hit the ground silently, like a puppet with its strings cut. Standing over the body, illuminated by the moonlight, was someone else entirely.
It was a man—no, a creature—lean and muscular, shirtless to display a physique carved from stone. His skin was pale as porcelain, marked with thick, dark blue tattoos that striped across his body and face. Shocking pink hair framed a pair of golden eyes that glowed in the dark. Etched into his irises were the kanji: Upper Rank Three.
Akaza straightened up slowly. He didn't even glance at the corpse at his feet. His gaze swept through the darkness, piercing the shadows as if he could see the four demons hiding within them.
Minutes Earlier: A Clearing near a Trainwreck, Japan - Deep Night
Akaza was blasted backward by a wave of searing heat. His flesh burned, and deep gashes opened on his chest, but the wounds began to knit together instantly, steam rising from his regenerating skin.
AKAZA
Magnificent! What beautiful flames!
He stood his ground, not with anger, but with pure, unadulterated joy. He was facing strength—true strength.
AKAZA
Look at you! Your wounds will never heal! But mine? My burns are already gone!
AKAZA
You are the chosen one, Kyojuro! If you became a demon, you could go so much further! You could fight me for eternity!
Kyojuro Rengoku inhaled deeply. The heat radiating from his Battle Spirit was so intense it formed a visible aura of orange light around him.
RENGOKU
I will never become a demon! Even if I am wounded, even if I die! Strength used to protect others... that is what matters! That is my final answer!
Rengoku surged forward, faster than before. He channeled every ounce of his spirit into one final attack. The flames around him roared, taking the shape of a massive, thundering dragon.
RENGOKU
Flame Breathing, Ninth Form: Rengoku!
It was the Flame Hashira’s ultimate technique—a devastating charge that turned him into a meteor, aiming to incinerate everything in his path. He slammed directly into the Upper Rank Three!
ROAAAAR!
Akaza’s face was twisted in a manic grin. This was it. This was the pinnacle of battle he craved.
AKAZA
YES! This is the strength I wanted to see!
But in that fraction of a second, reality fractured. A dimensional rift tore open in the center of the impact zone. It swallowed Akaza whole, yanking him away from the clash before the final blow could land.
Back to Present: Abandoned Industrial District, NYC
Akaza stood in the desolate, dark alleyway.
AKAZA
(Muttering)
What just happened? Where... where is this? Why am I here?
The last thing he remembered was Kyojuro’s blade... a blinding light... and now this filth.
His eyes fell upon the man in the suit standing in front of him.
AKAZA
(Voice dripping with rage)
Who dares interrupt my fight? Whoever did this... will pay with their life!
Present Time
AKAZA
(Deep, resonant voice)
Come out. I know you’re there. Your killing intent... your Battle Spirit... it’s potent. Interesting.
Silence fell. Blitzø and Millie froze. It wasn’t fear, exactly, but shock. They had killed countless humans, but this... thing standing before them felt different. He wasn't a Sinner, and he definitely wasn't a Hellborn they recognized.
Akaza smiled—a predator anticipating a hunt.
AKAZA
Especially you two down there. Your fighting spirit burns bright... Tell me, would you like to become demons?
Blitzø scowled. He stepped out of the shadows, leveling his flintlock at Akaza.
BLITZØ
First off, who the fuck are you, you stripper-clown looking freak? And second, you just stole my client! Do you know how hard it is to find a parking spot in this city? You owe me, bitch!
Akaza chuckled low in his throat. His golden eyes locked onto Blitzø.
AKAZA
I am Akaza... and your client was useless trash. But you... you might actually provide me with some entertainment.
ZWOOM!
The air where Akaza stood shimmered. In the blink of an eye, the space he occupied was empty.
BLITZØ
Where the hell did he—
BOOM!
A thunderous crash echoed from the top of the silo! Blitzø and Millie looked up in horror.
Up on the narrow platform, Akaza was already there, towering over Moxxie. He had appeared like a ghost, nose-to-nose with the sniper. Beneath Akaza’s feet, a glowing blue snowflake pattern expanded on the metal grate.
Technique Deployment: Destructive Death - Compass Needle.
Moxxie was paralyzed with terror. He stared into the demon’s golden eyes, his instincts screaming at him to pull the trigger, but his body refused to obey. He was too slow.
AKAZA
(Tilting his head)
Your spirit... it trembles with fear. Weak. Pathetic. But... there is a spark there.
Akaza’s hand moved faster than sight. He didn't punch; he simply flicked his finger against the barrel of the sniper rifle.
CRACK!
The high-grade alloy shattered like glass. Moxxie’s prized rifle disintegrated, shrapnel flying up and cutting his cheek.
MILLIE
MOXXIE!!!
Her scream tore through the night. Millie launched herself forward like a cannonball, bouncing off the walls, flipping in mid-air. She swung her massive battle axe with every ounce of her strength, aiming to cleave Akaza in two from behind.
BLITZØ
(Screaming)
Eat a dick, you steroid-junkie fuck!
BANG! BANG! BANG!
Blitzø unleashed a barrage of demonic rounds, timing his shots perfectly with Millie’s strike. Against any normal foe, it was checkmate.
But to Akaza, they were moving in slow motion.
He didn’t even turn to look at Millie. He simply shifted his torso a fraction of an inch. The massive axe blade sliced through empty air, missing his neck by a hair’s breadth. With a fluid motion, his foot hooked around Millie’s ankle, sending her sprawling face-first onto the grate.
Simultaneously, Blitzø’s bullets arrived. Akaza’s body twisted like water. The bullets passed through the afterimages of his movement. One grazed his shoulder, but the hole closed up instantly, leaving not even a scar.
Akaza spun around, dropping into a martial arts stance to face Millie as she scrambled up.
AKAZA
A pity... I do not kill women.
MILLIE
(Spitting blood)
Well, that’s just tough shit for you, asshole! Because I’m gonna wear your intestines like a scarf!
She roared and charged again. But Akaza ignored her. His gaze snapped back to the trembling Moxxie.
AKAZA
But you... the weak male. You are a different story.
He cocked his fist back, energy gathering for a blow that would liquefy the smaller demon.
But then...
Chapter 2: Compass of Destruction vs The Chaos of Hell
Summary:
When "family" is under threat, the pack’s guardian Hellhound will not stand idly by! Loona leaps into the fray, her claws successfully inflicting the first wound on the mysterious demon.
But... that hope is short-lived.
Even Team I.M.P.'s most frenzied coordinated assault is effortlessly crushed by an invisible, destructive force. Shattered weapons... undying regeneration... and a flawless combat style that seems to anticipate their every move.
This isn't a "mission" anymore. It is pure "survival."
With the team backed into a corner, Akaza extends a tempting yet terrifying offer: "Discard that fragile life... and become a demon."
Amidst the despair, as Blitzo’s refusal triggers a decisive, fatal strike, a glint from "something" in the first target's briefcase... might be the only answer they have left.
Chapter Text
Compass of Destruction vs. The Chaos of Hell
Abandoned Industrial District, New York City - Continuous
ZING!
A low, guttural growl, feral and terrifying, erupted from behind Blitzø. The back doors of the I.M.P. van were ripped off their hinges, metal screaming in protest. Loona leaped from the darkness, her red eyes burning like coals. Her fangs were bared, and her fingers ended in thick, razor-sharp claws. The phone was gone; she was now pure instinct.
She saw Moxxie in danger. She saw her boss struggling against something unkillable. The Hellhound took over.
LOONA
(Roaring)
Hey, you pink-striped freak! Get your filthy paws... OFF MY FAMILY!!!
Her powerful howl echoed through the desolate district. Akaza paused, his golden eyes narrowing. He sensed a new killing intent—not human, not quite demon in the way he knew, but wild, raw, and fiercely protective.
Before the echo of her howl faded, Loona was a blur of black fur and rage, rocketing toward him. Her claws weren't steel, but demonic bone, harder than anything on Earth, whistling through the air as she swiped.
Akaza turned to face this new challenger, curiosity piquing his interest. This "female" was different. Her spirit wasn't that of a martial artist, but of a beast protecting its pack. His momentary hesitation—debating whether to apply his code to a wild animal—was the opening Loona needed.
SLASH!
All five claws raked across Akaza’s chest! They tore through skin as tough as iron and muscle dense as rock. Fresh crimson blood sprayed into the air for the first time in the fight. Five deep gouges appeared on the Upper Moon’s perfect body.
BLITZØ
(Cheering maniacally)
That’s my girl, Loonie! Rip his fucking guts out! Make him regret being born!
Loona’s strike was the spark the team needed. On top of the silo, Moxxie shook off his terror. He discarded the ruined sniper rifle and whipped out his trusty dual pistols.
MOXXIE
FOR THE FAMILY!
BANG! BANG! BANG!
He rained down a hail of bullets, aiming precisely for Akaza’s eyes and joints to hamper his movement. Simultaneously, Millie regained her footing. With a throat-tearing war cry, she surged in from the flank, swinging her massive axe horizontally, aiming to sever Akaza’s legs at the knees.
It was a frantic, three-pronged assault. Loona bulldozed from the front with raw power, Millie swept low from the side, and Moxxie provided suppression from above.
Akaza’s grin widened. The deep gashes on his chest steamed and knit together, vanishing as if they had never existed.
AKAZA
Fun... this is getting fun!!
He stopped dodging. instead, he chose to face it all head-on! He dropped his stance low, ducking under Millie’s axe which whistled harmlessly over his head. In the same motion, he threw his arm up, parrying Loona’s second swipe with enough force to knock the Hellhound off balance.
AKAZA
Blood Demon Art: Destructive Death - Air Type!
Akaza punched straight into the empty air!
His fist connected with nothing, but a shockwave, invisible and devastating, blasted out like a cannonball.
BOOM!!
The first shockwave rocketed upward. It didn't aim for Moxxie, but for the platform beneath him! The metal grating of the silo crumpled inward. The explosion launched Moxxie into the air, flailing helplessly as he plummeted toward the ground.
MOXXIE
AAAAAAHHH!
BLITZØ
MOXXIE!
Blitzø, who had been looking for a shot, saw his employee in freefall. He fired his grappling hook into a girder overhead and swung out, catching Moxxie mid-air just before he hit the concrete. They tumbled together into a heap of limbs and curses.
In the same breath, Akaza fired a second and third punch sideways.
BOOM! BOOM!
Invisible concussive blasts detonated in front of Millie and Loona. The shockwaves didn't hit them directly but shattered the concrete beneath their feet, creating craters. The sheer force hurled them backward in opposite directions. Millie rolled multiple times before burying her axe in the ground to stop, while Loona dug her claws into the pavement, leaving long gouges as she skidded to a halt.
In three seconds, the I.M.P. team’s coordinated attack had been completely dismantled.
Blitzø and Moxxie were tangled on the ground. Millie and Loona were blasted away. Everyone was battered, dusty, but alive.
In the center of the chaos, Akaza slowly straightened up. The dust settled around him, revealing a body without a single scratch. The snowflake compass beneath his feet glowed brighter, pulsing with blue light. He swept his gaze over the four scattered demons with the look of a victor.
He had measured them all... the leader’s speed, the female fighter’s aggression, the Hellhound’s raw power, and the sniper’s precision.
AKAZA
(Brushing invisible dust off his shoulder)
Alright... the warm-up is over.
He bent his knees slightly, settling into a perfect Soryu stance. His golden eyes locked onto them, freezing the very air with their intensity.
AKAZA
Let’s begin the real fight.
A heavy silence fell, broken only by the ragged breathing of the I.M.P. crew and the wind whistling through the ruins. Blitzø hauled a coughing Moxxie to his feet, his eyes burning with anger and humiliation.
MOXXIE
(Raspy voice)
Th-this is insane, sir... Our weapons aren't doing anything! He heals instantly! It's physically impossible!
BLITZØ
I have eyes, Moxxie! Stop narrating our impending doom!
Opposite them, Millie and Loona slowly stood up, flanking the enemy. Millie’s axe had a chip in the blade. Loona growled low in her throat, hair bristling. They stared at Akaza, ready for the next wave.
Akaza stood calm in the center of the encirclement, spreading his arms slightly like an actor on a stage about to deliver a monologue.
AKAZA
You fight well... stubborn, aggressive, refusing to yield. Admirable traits for low-level demons. But you have limits. Your bodies are fragile. Your stamina will run dry.
His golden eyes scanned each of them before settling on Blitzø.
AKAZA
I will offer you this chance one last time... abandon this pointless existence. Become true demons under my guidance. You will gain immortality, and this exquisite battle can last for eternity!
BLITZØ
(Shouting back immediately)
Sorry, buddy, but we have a strict policy against taking job offers from shirtless strippers who look like a candy cane threw up on them! New plan! Everyone!
He turned to yell at his team.
BLITZØ
Forget the fancy coordination bullshit! Hit him with everything! Don’t stop! Moxxie, blow shit up! Millie, Loona, just rip him apart! Overwhelm him so he can't fucking heal!
It was a desperate, reckless plan. But right now, it was all they had.
AKAZA
(Shaking his head in disappointment)
How tragic...
As the words left his lips, he vanished again. But this time, he didn't appear far away. He surged into the center of the group with speed that made his previous movements look sluggish.
AKAZA
Destructive Death: Disorder!
His fists became a blur, punching rapidly into the air. He created dozens of small, continuous shockwaves that scattered in every direction like a storm. It wasn't as powerful as the single blasts, but the sheer frequency and speed made it a wall of death.
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
The ground around the I.M.P. team exploded into Swiss cheese, riddled with invisible cannon fire. Everyone scrambled. Blitzø somersaulted, a shockwave grazing his cheek. Moxxie dove behind the wreckage of an old forklift just as it was torn to shreds.
But Akaza’s true targets were Millie and Loona.
Through the hail of air bullets, he closed the distance. Millie roared, swinging her axe with all her might at his neck.
CLANG!!!
Akaza didn't dodge. instead, he used the edge of his hand to chop directly onto the handle of the axe! The immense destructive force shattered the solid oak shaft instantly! Millie’s beloved weapon was destroyed in a blink. Her eyes went wide with shock.
In that same split second, Loona lunged from behind, her claws aiming for Akaza’s spine.
WHAM!
Akaza spun around faster than she could react. One hand shot out and clamped around Loona’s wrist. His grip was like a hydraulic press; even a Hellhound as strong as Loona winced in pain as he crushed her wrist bones.
The battle froze again. Akaza stood there, one hand holding the broken shaft of Millie’s axe while she stared in horror, the other hand gripping Loona’s wrist so tight she was immobilized. He had subdued the team’s two strongest fighters simultaneously.
He looked past them, locking eyes with Blitzø, who stood jaw agape.
AKAZA
It’s over... your playtime ends now.
BLITZØ
(Gritting his teeth)
Not... not yet, fucker...
Blitzø’s eyes darted to something lying next to the corpse of their original target... a briefcase that had burst open. Inside, something reflected the moonlight with a sharp glint.
Chapter 3: Mission: (Almost) Impossible Because of the Pink-Skinned Freak
Summary:
When sharp axes and enchanted bullets become nothing more than playthings for an Upper Moon, Blitzo is left with no choice but to unleash his most reckless "trump card"... a silver cross and C4 explosives!
Millie and Loona’s suicidal tactics, combined with Moxxie’s devastating blasts, turn the abandoned factory into a blazing inferno. But as the smoke clears, a terrifying truth emerges... Death cannot stop Akaza. It has only fully awakened the true "demon" within him.
His amusement turning to pure rage, the ruthless Upper Rank is ready to tear the members of I.M.P. to shreds. But just as all hope flickers out... a powerful and completely unexpected "savior" is about to appear on the horizon!
Chapter Text
It was a beautifully engraved silver crucifix, originally meant to deal with a fake priest smuggling occult artifacts.
A thought struck Blitzø. It was a stupid thought, a desperate gamble that probably wouldn't work, but he had absolutely nothing left to lose.
BLITZØ
HEY! STRIPES!
He screamed to get Akaza’s attention, then dove for the open briefcase, snatching the silver crucifix.
BLITZØ
Got bored of Hell’s toys, huh?! How about a taste of the Heavens, you fucker!
He brandished the cross, thrusting it toward Akaza like a holy weapon. The moonlight caught the silver, casting a long, sharp shadow over the Upper Moon demon.
Akaza stared at the crucifix in Blitzø's hand with a blank expression for a split second. Then, the corner of his mouth twitched upwards into a sneer, followed by a laugh that echoed through the ruins.
AKAZA
Ha... Hahaha! This? This is your trump card?
He laughed, bending over slightly, his voice dripping with amusement and scorn.
AKAZA
Human scrap metal... a worthless trinket... Did you truly believe such a thing would affect me? Has despair made you this foolish?
Blitzø’s eyes remained steely. He didn't actually expect it to burn the guy like in the movies... he just needed to buy time.
BLITZØ
(Grinning wildly)
Who cares! Seeing that dumb look on your face was worth it!
Blitzø’s words were the signal!
In that moment, while Akaza was distracted by his own arrogance, enjoying the enemy’s desperation and slightly loosening his grip on Millie and Loona, the two captives locked eyes for a millisecond... and made a simultaneous decision.
They didn’t try to break free. They did the exact opposite.
MILLIE & LOONA
RAAAAAAGH!!
Both roared and threw every ounce of their remaining strength, not into attacking, but into anchoring Akaza in place! Millie dropped the handle of her ruined axe and wrapped both arms around Akaza’s forearm in a vice grip. Loona used her larger frame to leap onto his back, digging her claws deep into his trapezius muscles to lock herself down.
Akaza froze, genuinely surprised. What was this suicidal move?
He got his answer a second later.
BLITZØ
(Screaming at the top of his lungs)
NOW, MOXXIE!!!
From behind the wreckage of the forklift, Moxxie popped up. He wasn't holding guns. In his hands were two large bricks of C4 plastic explosives he’d pulled from the van’s emergency stash. He thumbed the detonator and hurled them with all his might!
The explosive bricks spiraled through the air and landed perfectly where Akaza stood... right between his legs.
Akaza’s golden eyes widened for the first time. He sensed the massive potential energy about to be released. He tried to shake Millie and Loona off, but they held on with a death grip, willing to die rather than let him escape.
AKAZA
You wretched—
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!!!!
The world turned white.
The explosion was deafening, a sound like the end of days. A violent shockwave ripped outward in every direction, tearing the concrete floor into confetti. The steel skeleton of the factory twisted and groaned like a dying beast. Blitzø and Moxxie were swatted away by the concussive force like flies, tumbling dozens of meters through the dust and debris.
A mushroom cloud of fire roared into the night sky. Then, silence rushed back in... a terrifying silence, broken only by the sound of red-hot metal raining down and the high-pitched ringing in Blitzø and Moxxie’s ears.
Thick smoke choked the blast zone, obscuring everything. Blitzø tried to push himself up, coughing up a little blood.
BLITZØ
(Voice raspy and broken)
Millie!! Loona!! Sound off, dammit!
No answer came from the thick veil of smoke. Moxxie’s heart dropped into his stomach. He stared into the grey haze with utter despair.
Did the plan work? And what was the cost?
Then... through the thinning smoke... a silhouette appeared.
He stood in the center of a small, freshly made crater. His upper body was... mostly gone. Only a spine and some internal organs remained, but they were knitting themselves back together at a speed visible to the naked eye. His left arm was missing from the shoulder down. Both legs were charred to the bone. Yet... he was still standing.
Akaza slowly lifted his head. Half of his face had been melted away by the blast, but the remaining golden eye burned with a fury unlike anything before. The smile, the amusement, the respect for a worthy opponent... it was all gone. Replaced by a pure, unadulterated killing intent that made the air turn ice cold.
Not far away, Millie and Loona lay motionless on the ground, battered and unconscious. They had been blown clear by the blast, surviving by a miracle, but were out of the fight.
Akaza ignored them. His target was now only two people.
The flesh on his face and body bubbled and reformed, the sound of muscle fibers tearing and reconnecting was sickeningly audible.
AKAZA
(Voice cold, raspy, and dripping with hatred)
You... insects... scum...
He was almost fully regenerated. His eye, burning with rage, stared directly at Blitzø and Moxxie.
AKAZA
I will tear you... into a million pieces.
Akaza began to walk slowly toward them. His regeneration was complete. Every step he took released a crushing pressure that cracked the concrete beneath him. The killing intent was so heavy it felt like gravity had doubled; it was hard to breathe, as if the air itself was terrified of him.
Moxxie trembled uncontrollably. He tried to pick up a pistol lying next to him, but his fingers were numb, and it slipped from his grasp again and again.
MOXXIE
(Stuttering)
S-sir... we have to run! We can't fight him! We have to leave everything and run right now!
But Blitzø stood still. He looked past the demon to where Millie and Loona lay unconscious. Beneath all the narcissism and the chaos... was an unshakable loyalty to his family.
He picked up his flintlock, slowly loading the very last round, even though he knew it was useless.
BLITZØ
(Voice quiet, but rock solid)
No... I'm not leaving them.
He raised the gun, aiming at the approaching Akaza.
BLITZØ
You’re gonna have to go through me first, you candy-assed bitch.
Akaza stopped. He was less than ten meters away. No more words. The conversation was over. He dropped low, assuming a final stance—simple, yet radiating perfect destructive power. Energy began to gather at his right fist, distorting the air around it.
AKAZA
Destructive Death: Annihilation Type.
It was his ultimate technique. An attack meant to erase everything in front of him from existence. Blitzø and Moxxie stood frozen, staring at death approaching...
But then... the unexpected happened.
On the eastern horizon... a thin line of violet and orange light cut through the dark. The first light of dawn.
The instant that light touched the tip of Akaza’s foot...
SIZZLE!!!
Smoke erupted from his skin as if he had been splashed with acid! Akaza screamed—a sound of genuine pain for the first time. It wasn't a roar of anger, but a shriek of primal fear.
The ultimate technique dissipated instantly. He snapped his head toward the brightening sky, panic flooding his eyes.
AKAZA
No... Impossible! Morning!?
The Sun... the one weakness not even an Upper Moon could overcome. His body, which had just healed so miraculously, began to crumble into ash where the gentle morning light touched it.
The battle was over... not because someone won, but because time had run out.
Akaza shot a look of pure venom back at Blitzø and Moxxie one last time. Humiliation burned in his gaze.
AKAZA
(Screaming in fury)
I will remember you! You low-born filth! Next time... there will be no sunrise to save you!!!
With a final roar, he bolted, blurring into the deepest shadows of the remaining factory ruins, vanishing before the sun could fully bathe the area in light. He left behind only a threat that echoed in their ears.
Silence returned. Blitzø and Moxxie stood panting heavily. They looked at the spot where Akaza had stood, then at the sun cresting the horizon... They had survived. Impossible.
"Did we... win?" Moxxie asked, dazed.
Blitzø lowered his gun slowly. "No... we just got lucky."
Reality came crashing back. They both sprinted to Millie and Loona. Fortunately, they were just knocked out by the shockwave. Broken bones, severe bruising, but alive.
Blitzø pulled out the Grimoire, flipping through pages to chant the spell. A crimson portal swirled open on the ground before them.
"Let's go home," he said, his voice exhausted.
They struggled to carry Millie and Loona through the portal, back to Hell. Just as they were about to step through, Moxxie looked back at the devastated battlefield bathed in the innocent morning light.
MOXXIE
Sir, seriously... what was that thing?
Blitzø glanced back as well. His face showed a weariness and a seriousness rarely seen.
BLITZØ
(Sighing deeply)
I don't fuckin' know, Mox... But whatever he is...
He paused for a moment before delivering the final line.
BLITZØ
...I think we just made a new worst enemy.
The portal closed, leaving the ruined industrial district behind... in the quiet dawn.
Chapter 4: Winter of the Machine vs Infinity of Madness
Summary:
In the middle of a fallen civilization's debris within a dark dimension, Metal Sonic, the ultimate destructive machine, faces an "obstacle" that appears harmless... the wreckage of a maid drone known as Cyn.
However, when an attack capable of destroying a city cannot even scratch her, a terrifying reality emerges. Metal Sonic's perfect logic and processors are being challenged by a force beyond common sense... the Absolute Solver.
Turning from predator to prey, the supersonic killer confronts a cyber monster that twists reality as she pleases. An unruly battle between "Unlimited Speed" and "Unending Power" begins! Who will fall apart first?
Chapter Text
Another Dimension: Ruins of a Desolate Planet - Night
Twin moons, one pale purple and the other a sickly green, cast an eerie glow over the skeletal remains of a ruined metropolis. The twisted steel girders of once-proud skyscrapers jutted into the sky like the ribs of ancient, dead giants. An oppressive silence suffocated the city, broken only by the mournful whistle of the wind weaving through the debris.
Suddenly, the silence was torn apart. A dimensional rift ripped open in mid-air.
A streak of metallic blue light shot out of the tear at supersonic speed, leaving a trail of crackling plasma in its wake. It came to a perfect, instant halt hovering above a devastated plaza.
It was Metal Sonic, the ultimate machine. His crimson optical sensors scanned the environment with terrifying speed. His sleek, dark blue chassis reflected the moonlight coldly—the definition of mechanical perfection built for a single purpose: destruction.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[VISUAL INTERFACE: ACTIVE]
[SCANNING... ENERGY SOURCE DETECTED.]
[COORDINATES: 30 METERS... DIRECT FRONT.]
[ENERGY SIGNATURE: UNSTABLE... UNIDENTIFIED.]
Metal Sonic’s eyes narrowed, locking onto the target.
In the center of the plaza, amidst rubble and rebar, slumped the battered frame of an old Worker Drone. One arm was missing. Scorch marks and scratches covered its casing. The yellow LED eyes on its visor flickered erratically, as if they were about to die out completely.
It was Cyn, in her damaged state. She sat motionless, looking like nothing more than electronic waste.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[TARGET ANALYSIS... TYPE: AUTONOMOUS WORKER DRONE... MODEL: OBSOLETE.]
[STATUS: CRITICAL DAMAGE... THREAT LEVEL: NEGLIGIBLE.]
[DIRECTIVE: ELIMINATE OBSTACLE... RESUME PRIMARY MISSION.]
Metal Sonic did not speak. He decided in a nanosecond. His body leaned forward, engines flaring, preparing to simply plow through what he perceived as garbage.
But then... a soft, glitchy giggle echoed from the broken drone.
CYN
(Voice soft, skipping like a broken record)
Lost... are we... little spark?
The language shifted instantly to one Metal Sonic could process, but it retained the creepy, childlike cadence.
CYN
Found a new toy... giggle...
The flickering yellow eyes on Cyn’s visor stopped blinking. They stared straight at Metal Sonic, the yellow light intensifying with an unnatural brightness.
Metal Sonic paused. His processors flagged an anomaly, but his logic insisted the target was physically weak.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[COMMUNICATION DETECTED... IGNORE.]
[INITIATING TERMINATION SEQUENCE...]
No warning. Metal Sonic’s body erupted in blinding blue light. Massive energy gathered at his core before he unleashed his most devastating attack.
V. MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE!
A high-pitched whine pierced the air. His metallic body transformed into a projectile of pure blue energy, launching at the prone drone with speed that would shock even Sonic himself. The concrete below shattered in a straight line as he tore through the air.
It all happened in less than a second.
BOOOOOOOOM!!!
An explosion of kinetic energy sent dust and debris flying across the plaza. The shockwave toppled nearby unstable structures. The impact was strong enough to atomize a standard drone instantly.
Metal Sonic hovered above the small crater he had created. His red eyes scanned his handiwork coldly.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[TARGET ELIMINATED.]
[MISSION: RESUME...]
But as the smoke and dust began to clear... the yellow light remained.
In the center of the crater... where there should have been nothing... Cyn sat exactly where she was. Unscathed. Not a scratch. It was as if the devastating attack had been a gentle breeze.
The giggle came again, clearer this time. Colder.
CYN
Wow... fast... really fast. But...
Suddenly, the LED eyes on Cyn’s visor shifted. The standard eyes vanished, replaced by a complex, yellow symbol: [O].
The symbol of the Absolute Solver.
CYN
(Head tilting unnaturally to the side)
...you aren't playing with just a 'drone', are you?
Silence returned, heavy with tension. Metal Sonic remained suspended in the air. He re-processed the data at maximum overclock, but the results defied all logic.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[TARGET ANALYSIS: PERSISTING.]
[ESTIMATED DAMAGE: 0%.]
[ERROR: INEXPLICABLE PHENOMENON.]
[THREAT LEVEL: UPDATING... EXTREME.]
Metal Sonic’s red eyes bored into Cyn without blinking. The yellow [O] on the old drone’s face pulsed like a demonic heartbeat. Cyn lifted her head slowly, a crooked smile appearing on her digital display.
CYN
You make me excited... 'little spark'.
Giggle.
But now... let me play.
Suddenly, the space where her missing arm used to be began to distort. A black, oily substance materialized, twisting and writhing. The rebar and concrete chunks around her levitated, bending and fusing together as if alive. They snapped into shape rapidly, forming three massive, sharp tendrils that lunged at Metal Sonic with impossible speed.
Metal Sonic reacted instantly. He darted through the air, dodging the metallic tentacles like blue lightning. The sound of metal clashing on metal rang out as he parried and weaved. Each tendril carried immense destructive force; where they whipped through the air, they left faint distortions in reality itself.
Metal Sonic crashed through a nearby building, using the debris as cover while flanking. He utilized his supreme speed, looking for an opening.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[ANALYZING ATTACK PATTERN: TELEKINESIS / MATTER MANIPULATION.]
[SPEED OF APPENDAGES: SUB-SONIC TO SUPERSONIC.]
[CALCULATING WEAKNESS...]
METAL SONIC
(Synthesized, robotic, cold)
UNDEFINED. ATTACK PATTERN INEFFECTIVE AGAINST THIS UNIT.
He decided to counter. Stopping dead in mid-air, he charged high-voltage electricity in both hands.
LIGHTNING ATTACK!
A bolt of blue lightning fired in a straight line toward Cyn at the speed of light.
Cyn didn't dodge. Two of her tentacles shot up, warping the air in front of her to create an invisible barrier. Metal Sonic’s lightning slammed into the shield, exploding in a shower of sparks, but the energy was absorbed and dissipated as if it never existed.
CYN
Ooh... spicy energy... But... it's no fun if you don't get hit too.
The [O] on her face glowed brighter. The tentacles that had been chasing Metal Sonic suddenly changed trajectory. One slammed into the ground, burrowing deep, only to erupt from the earth directly behind Metal Sonic with zero warning.
Metal Sonic spun around, but it was too late. The massive composite tentacle slammed into his back.
CRUNCH!
The sound of tearing metal was sickening. Metal Sonic was launched forward like a ragdoll, smashing through three skyscrapers in a row. He skidded across the broken pavement, finally crashing into a reinforced wall with a deafening CLANG!
Scrap metal and circuitry sparked from his back. He had left a massive dent in the wall.
Slowly, painfully, Metal Sonic pushed himself up. His red eyes flickered—on, off, on. His back plating was torn open, revealing damaged wiring and chassis beneath.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[STATUS: DAMAGE 15% - DORSAL PLATING BREACHED - SECONDARY THRUSTERS COMPROMISED.]
[ENERGY LEVELS: MINOR DEPLETION.]
[THREAT ASSESSMENT: CRITICAL - EXCEEDS PREDICTIONS.]
[REROUTING STRATEGY...]
CYN
(Giggling with genuine delight)
Hee hee hee... gotcha... Toys break so easily.
Cyn floated up from the crater. Her body was now shrouded in shadows, with the three sharp tentacles spreading out like wings behind her. They twitched hungrily. The [O] on her face pulsed with terrifying light.
She was the true manifestation of The Absolute Solver.
Metal Sonic stood fully upright. His eyes stabilized, glowing intensely as he rapid-rebooted affected systems. Sparks flew from his back, but internal repair nanites were already sealing the breach. A soft click signaled the locking of his emergency combat protocols.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[STRATEGY UPDATE... MODE: SURVIVAL AND ANALYSIS.]
[THREAT: EXTREMIS... CAPABILITY: REALITY WARPING / MATTER MANIPULATION.]
[NEW DIRECTIVE: OBSERVE... LOCATE CORE... DESTROY CORE.]
His logic dictated that this power must have a source. And the visible source was that drone body, no matter how durable it seemed.
METAL SONIC
(Synthesized voice, colder than absolute zero)
TARGET... CONFIRMED... MUST BE ELIMINATED.
Chapter 5: The Rift of Infinity
Summary:
When "Perfect Logic" is forced to confront "Boundless Insanity."
Metal Sonic believed he understood the enemy before him, but he was dead wrong... Cyn is no mere drone. What she has unleashed is not just an attack, but a distortion of reality itself! The ground liquefies, the sky becomes a crushing ceiling, and illusions gnaw at his very machine soul.
As the true form of the Absolute Solver emerges—a colossal eye of the void—physical combat becomes futile. Metal Sonic is being hacked from another dimension, pressured to submit to a power that defies calculation.
Amidst collapsing systems and a victory probability of only 0.013%, the blue killing machine unleashes his final trump card... It is no missile, no laser, but an "Equation of Pure Logic." A code designed to overwrite the laws of the universe and sever the existence of that which should never have been, once and for all!
Chapter Text
Cyn spread her single remaining arm. A sickly violet-black energy erupted from her core, enveloping her in a translucent, spherical barrier. It was the [Null] shield—a perfect defense capable of reflecting almost any attack.
Cyn tilted her head, her [O] eyes narrowing slightly as if inspecting a shiny new toy.
CYN
Ooh... new shield? Looks pretty... but...
She didn't order her tentacles to attack. Instead, she raised her small, pristine hand and snapped her fingers softly.
Snap.
The instant the sound rang out, Metal Sonic’s world warped.
The ground beneath his feet wasn't struck; it turned into liquid—a thick, black, tar-like sludge. His Black Shield was still active, but now he was sinking into the transmuted earth. The skyscrapers around him began to bend and melt like wax under a blowtorch. The twin moons in the sky spiraled into whirlpools, emitting a distorted light that scrambled optical sensors.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[WARNING: ENVIRONMENTAL SENSORS MALFUNCTIONING.]
[WARNING: AUDIO/VISUAL DATA COMPROMISED.]
[ERROR! ERROR! REALITY INTEGRITY: UNSTABLE.]
Metal Sonic attempted to fly up, escaping the liquefied ground, but suddenly the "sky" pressed down, becoming an invisible ceiling. Immense pressure crushed against his Black Shield, causing it to hum violently.
CYN
(Her voice echoing from everywhere, both near and far simultaneously)
Do you like your new box? I made it just for you... Is it roomy enough? Giggle...
Hallucinations began to manifest around Metal Sonic. He saw Dr. Eggman laughing at him, he saw Sonic tearing through his chassis countless times, he saw himself rusting away into scrap. It was all junk data, fed directly into his processors to induce confusion.
But Metal Sonic felt no fear. He only had logic.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[FILTERING CORRUPT DATA... TRIANGULATING INTERFERENCE SOURCE.]
[...LOCATED!]
Amidst the chaos, Cyn’s form floated calmly in the same spot. She was the eye of this storm of madness.
Metal Sonic decided to gamble everything. All the energy sustaining the Black Shield was instantly recalled into his core.
Vwoop!
The shield vanished. The crushing pressure slammed into his body, but in that fraction of a second, Metal Sonic released all that stored energy in a single form.
He fired a massive, crimson beam from his CHEST LASER CANNON, aimed directly at Cyn. This wasn't just physical destruction; the beam was encoded with a "reset" algorithm designed to pierce rival machine systems.
Not an attack on the hardware, but an attack on the software.
The beam tore through the warped air, piercing every illusion, and slammed directly into Cyn.
BOOOOOOOOOOM!!!
A blinding light engulfed the area. A high-pitched, spine-chilling scream erupted from Cyn. It wasn't the voice of a little girl anymore, but the screech of an eldritch entity in pain and fury.
Cyn’s worker drone body exploded into shrapnel instantly!
The light faded. The distortion of reality snapped back. Everything returned to the quiet, desolate ruins.
Metal Sonic hovered silently, smoke drifting from his chest cannon. He scanned the empty space.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[ENERGY SOURCE... GONE.]
[TARGET CORE... DESTROYED.]
[MISSION... ACCOMPLISHED.]
But then... the laughter returned. Not a giggle, but a cold, authoritative, joyless laugh. It didn't come from a point in space, but from everywhere... from the air... from the shadows... from inside Metal Sonic’s own head.
???
Destroyed the 'vessel'? Clever thought... little machine.
Black shadows began to coalesce in the air again. Not in the shape of a drone, but something larger... more terrifying, more abstract.
THE SOLVER
But you only broke my 'cage'.
The air around Metal Sonic froze. The darkness wasn't just the absence of light; it was 'something' actively eating the ambient light. The scrap metal from Cyn’s exploded body lifted from the ground, but instead of reforming, it was crushed at the atomic level, becoming black particles that swirled into the center of a miniature storm.
In the eye of that storm... a gigantic yellow [O] symbol snapped open. It had no body. It was a phenomenon—a tear in reality staring right at Metal Sonic.
This was the true form of The Absolute Solver, an entity of corrupted data and formless void.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[ERROR! ERROR! ERROR!]
[TARGET ANALYSIS FAILED... TARGET HAS NO TANGIBLE MASS.]
[COMPOSITION: DATA / VOID / LOGICAL ERROR.]
[THREAT LEVEL: INCALCULABLE.]
For a machine running on logic and physics, the thing in front of him was the ultimate nightmare. It was an intangible Infinity.
THE SOLVER
(Its voice a chorus of thousands—male, female, machine, organic—resonating directly in Metal Sonic’s CPU)
You think a 'program' can be killed by destroying the 'hardware'? How limited... You were built with such constraints.
Metal Sonic didn't respond with words. He rocketed upward, his thrusters at max output. He needed to escape the engagement zone to re-evaluate.
But... he didn't move.
Even with his thrusters glowing white-hot, he hovered in place, as if frozen in spacetime.
THE SOLVER
'Distance' is just a concept... and concepts... are under my administration.
Suddenly, gravity inverted. Metal Sonic was yanked into the sky at high velocity, then gravity increased a hundredfold, slamming him back down into the earth, creating a massive crater.
CLANG-CRUNCH!
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[WARNING: STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY CRITICAL - 38%.]
[INTRUSION DETECTED... FIREWALLS UNDER ATTACK.]
Tentacles of yellow and black data, invisible to the naked eye but clear on Metal Sonic’s HUD, were piercing his systems from all sides. The Solver wasn't attacking his body anymore; it was trying to hijack his "soul".
Metal Sonic lay motionless in the pit. His body spasmed. His red eyes flickered rapidly as his internal defenses fought a desperate war to purge the eldritch virus.
[PURGING FOREIGN CODE... ACCESS DENIED.]
[ISOLATING CORRUPTED SECTORS... FAILED.]
[MAIN PROCESSOR INTEGRITY: 89% AND DROPPING.]
THE SOLVER
Give up... You are a complex equation, but I am Mathematics itself. Hand over your data... surrender your will... and I will give you a new purpose.
Images of Sonic torn to pieces... images of worlds consumed... images of Metal Sonic as the Solver’s herald... these were projected into his mind.
But amidst the overwhelming digital assault... Metal Sonic’s core programming, the deepest command embedded by Dr. Eggman... held firm.
[CORE DIRECTIVE: DEFEAT SONIC THE HEDGEHOG.]
[SUB-DIRECTIVE: ELIMINATE ALL OBSTACLES.]
[OBSTACLE IDENTIFIED: THE ABSOLUTE SOLVER.]
His artificial will was stronger than the Solver anticipated.
Metal Sonic’s red eyes stopped flickering and burned a solid, furious crimson. He channeled every scrap of remaining energy. Not to attack, but to generate a high-frequency vibration throughout his entire chassis.
VREEEEEEEEEEEEM!!!
A high-energy sonic pulse detonated outward, repelling the Solver’s data tendrils for a brief moment. He used that window to launch himself out of the pit, flying in a tight orbit around the Solver entity at maximum velocity, creating a tornado of debris and speed.
He wasn't attacking... he was scanning.
Scanning the anomaly in reality... scanning the rift the Solver created... looking for the source... looking for the "connection point".
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[ANALYSIS... TARGET CANNOT BE DESTROYED.]
[NEW OPTION: NOT DESTRUCTION... BUT 'SEVERANCE'.]
[DIMENSIONAL ANCHOR DETECTED... COORDINATES: CENTER OF PHENOMENON.]
[PROBABILITY OF SUCCESS: 0.013%.]
A microscopic chance. But not zero.
METAL SONIC
(His voice boomed, no longer just synthetic, but the sound of pure will)
IF TARGET DOES NOT EXIST... THEN DELETE THE EQUATION.
All remaining energy in his frame was pulled into his core. The blue energy darkened until it was almost black... enough power to crack a small planetoid... compressed into the size of a marble.
THE SOLVER
Stubborn... pathetic...
Metal Sonic ignored the taunt. He aimed that compressed energy at the center of the giant [O]... at the point that didn't exist... the gateway between dimensions.
He was about to fire everything he was... into the void.
There was no roar. No whistle. Just a pressurized silence. When Metal Sonic released everything, the dark blue marble at his core didn't explode into a beam. Instead, it elongated into a razor-thin needle of energy. It was a spear of pure logic, of compressed physics, thrust into the heart of irrationality.
THE SOLVER
Absurd! Infinity cannot be measured!
Reality around the Solver twisted violently. It created miniature black holes to swallow the attack, erected walls of warped dimension to deflect it. But Metal Sonic’s attack didn't travel through "space". It was overwriting the "rules" of that space. It was a conceptual attack aimed at the single glitch he had found.
The needle of dark blue energy pierced through every barrier as if they weren't there and drove deep into the center of the [O].
There was no BOOM.
Instead, a sound like CRACK... echoed deep within the consciousness, like the sound of a cosmic mirror fracturing.
The [O] froze for the first time. Its yellow light flickered violently, like a dying bulb. The thousands of voices that made up the Solver fragmented into shrieks of agony and confusion, screaming in languages dead for a million years.
THE SOLVER
(Voice breaking/glitching)
What... did... you... do... This is... impossible... My connection...
The rift Metal Sonic had hit was forcefully "closing." It was ejecting the Solver’s presence from this dimension, forcing the massive program back into the void from whence it came.
The world shook. The remaining ruins collapsed completely. The twin moons trembled in the sky like reflections in disturbed water.
The center of the [O] turned into a black hole, sucking everything in. The formless body of the Solver was dragged back into the tear, thrashing wildly.
Before it vanished completely, a final whisper, filled with vindictive malice, echoed in Metal Sonic’s processors one last time.
...This... is not... over...
Vwoop!
Everything stopped.
The rift sealed shut. The [O] was gone. The unnatural darkness dissolved. The sky returned to normal, the twin moons shining down on the silent ruins just as before.
Silence returned.
Metal Sonic hovered motionless in the air. His chassis was covered in cracks and burns. The blue energy that once illuminated him dimmed and died. Black smoke poured from every joint. He hung there... one second... two seconds...
Clang! Thud! Crash!
The battered metal body fell from the sky, hitting the ground hard. One arm snapped off, twisted. A leg detached from its servo. His red eyes flickered slowly... weak... fading.
[INTERNAL PROCESSING: METAL SONIC]
[TARGET CONNECTION... SEVERED.]
[SECONDARY MISSION: ELIMINATE OBSTACLE... COMPLETE.]
[PRIMARY MISSION: DEFEAT SONIC THE HEDGEHOG... PENDING.]
[SYSTEM STATUS: DAMAGE 97%... ENERGY 1%... CRITICAL FAILURE IMMINENT.]
[INITIATING PROTOCOL... EMERGENCY REPAIR... AND... SHUTDOWN...]
Metal Sonic’s red eyes glowed one last time. No emotion. Only the confirmation of his persisting mission. Then, the light faded completely.
The body of the ultimate machine lay silent amidst the ruins of a dead world. Only the wind moved over his still form.
Chapter 6: Guest of the Death Dimension
Summary:
In "The Beach," where the laws of life and death reign supreme, the newly begun "Witch Hunt" is suddenly interrupted by an unforeseen dimensional rift.
When Eddie Brock, a hooded stranger, appears amidst the paranoid gazes of the players and the barrel of Niragi’s gun, a simple misunderstanding... unleashes the pitch-black beast, Venom!
Impervious to bullets, possessing superhuman strength, and driven by an insatiable hunger, the monster turns Niragi from predator to prey, transforming the survival game into a living nightmare. How will Arisu and Usagi survive a creature that exists beyond the rules of the game? Their only hope lies in a single discovery... a "sound" that might stop the demon, if only for a heartbeat.
Chapter Text
Another World, Between Life and Death. Exterior - The Beach, Main Lobby - Night.
The vibrant, multicolored neon lights that usually bathed the pool in a party atmosphere were gone. In their place, emergency red lights spun wildly, sweeping across the confused and terrified faces of dozens of survivors.
The announcement from the speakers still echoed in everyone's ears.
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
(Distorted, chilling voice)
Difficulty Level: Ten of Hearts. Game: "Witch Hunt."
Rules: Find the "Witch" hiding among you and throw them into the bonfire. The game will be cleared.
And... the "Witch" is not necessarily a woman.
Game Start.
In the center of the lobby lay the lifeless body of Momoka. A knife was buried deep in her chest, fresh crimson blood staining her white bikini. The first wave of chaos was brewing; screams and accusations began to fly.
Arisu stood frozen, eyes wide, trying to process the rules of the cruelest game he had ever encountered. Usagi stood beside him, poised and alert, her climber’s instincts at maximum readiness.
Chishiya leaned against a pillar in a shadowed corner. He watched the situation with his usual detached expression, though a flicker of dangerous curiosity played in his eyes. His fingers idly twirled a playing card.
But then...
BOOM—!!
Not an explosion. Not a gunshot. It was the sound of the air itself being ripped apart.
Above the empty swimming pool, the space twisted like a reflection on disturbed water. A dimensional rift tore open, vibrating violently and emitting a high-pitched screech that forced everyone to cover their ears.
KUINA
(Shouting)
What the hell is that!?
Before anyone could answer, a man fell from the rift. He slammed hard onto the tiles by the poolside with a loud thud!
It was Eddie Brock. Dressed in a simple hoodie and jeans, he curled up, coughing and hacking, choking on the air of a world he didn't know.
EDDIE
(Muttering to himself)
...Where the hell are we? Venom... what did you do this time?
VENOM
(Deep, resonant voice inside Eddie's head)
Not me! I felt it too... like being pulled... dragged!
The attention of everyone at The Beach shifted instantly to the newcomer. Paranoia was written in every gaze.
Niragi, rifle in hand, grinned sadistically, revealing his teeth. He swaggered toward Eddie, who was struggling to stand.
NIRAGI
Hey! Who the fuck is this loser? Part of the game? Or maybe... a "Witch" just dropped in for an easy kill?
Niragi raised his rifle, aiming the barrel directly at Eddie's forehead.
EDDIE
(Raising his hands in surrender)
Whoa, whoa, easy there, pal. I don't know anything about any game. I just...
VENOM
Eddie... this guy smells bad. I'm hungry...
EDDIE
(Through gritted teeth)
Shut up for a sec...
NIRAGI
(Frowning)
Who the hell are you talking to?
Before Eddie could explain, Niragi swung the butt of his rifle, slamming it hard into Eddie’s ribs!
WHACK!
EDDIE
Gah!
Eddie crumbled to the ground. Pain shot through his body, but something more dangerous was bubbling up from within—rage.
VENOM
He hurt us!
EDDIE
(Whispering)
No... don't... not yet...
NIRAGI
(Laughing maniacally)
Pathetic! If you're not the Witch, you're just dead weight. Go die somewhere else!
Niragi raised his foot, preparing to stomp on Eddie’s head.
That was the last straw.
Eddie’s eyes snapped open. Veins bulged on his neck and face. His body began to tremble violently.
EDDIE
(Voice raspy and changing)
You... shouldn't have done that...
A split second later, a thick, black, tar-like substance exploded from Eddie’s body. It flowed over his skin rapidly, alive and sentient. Muscles expanded, shredding his clothes. His height nearly doubled.
Eddie’s face morphed into a monster. huge, white, pupil-less eyes appeared on a pitch-black visage. A mouth tore open ear-to-ear, revealing a long, grotesque red tongue and rows of razor-sharp teeth ready to shred anything in their path.
VENOM
ARRRRGGGHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
A roar that was distinctly inhuman thundered through The Beach. It was louder than the game announcement, drowning out the screams and chaos until there was only silence.
Venom stood at his full, towering height. With one arm, he swatted Niragi’s rifle away as easily as if it were a twig. Niragi, maniacal just moments ago, now stood frozen in shock and... fear.
Venom leaned down until his foul breath washed over Niragi’s face.
VENOM
(Voice deep and terrifying)
You... look delicious.
The game "Witch Hunt" had just begun, but now... a new hunter had entered the fray.
The silence of shock lasted only a second before it was shattered by laughter even more insane than before.
NIRAGI
(Grinning wide, blood trickling from his mouth)
Ha... Hahaha! Fantastic! This is fantastic! Whatever the fuck you are... this game just got interesting!
Niragi leaped backward, snatched his fallen rifle from the ground, and without a shred of hesitation, unloaded a full magazine into Venom’s massive frame.
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
The gunshots were deafening, but the result was hopeless. Every bullet sank into Venom’s black mass like stones in tar. The holes closed up instantly, leaving not even a scratch.
Venom tilted his head, narrowing his white eyes in annoyance.
VENOM
Toys... loud.
Before Niragi could pull the trigger again, a sharp black tendril shot out from Venom’s back with superhuman speed. It whipped around Niragi’s wrist, snapping the bone.
NIRAGI
ARGHHH!
The rifle clattered to the floor. Venom stepped forward, using one massive hand to grab Niragi by the throat and lift him off the ground, feet dangling helplessly.
NIRAGI
(Choking, struggling)
Ghk— You...
VENOM
Annoying...
Venom didn't crush his throat. instead, he hurled Niragi with immense force, sending him flying across the pool area to crash directly into the bar counter!
CRASH!!
Bottles and glasses shattered everywhere. Niragi lay motionless amidst the debris, out cold.
The image of The Beach’s strongest "militant" being tossed aside like a ragdoll was the final trigger.
Chaos truly erupted.
"RUNNNNN!!"
"IT'S A DEMON!!"
The crowd scattered in panic, trampling each other to survive. Screams filled the air. Some ran into the hotel building, others tried to scale the walls, but there was nowhere to go.
Arisu watched the scene, his brain working overdrive. "Gunshots... when Niragi fired, did he flinch? Just a little? Or did I imagine it?"
USAGI
(Grabbing Arisu’s arm)
Arisu! What are you doing!? We have to run!
Usagi pulled Arisu toward a hallway leading to the residential wing. Venom, now the center of a storm of terror, turned to look at the frantically fleeing crowd. His long tongue slithered out, licking his chops.
VENOM
So many snacks! Which one first?
EDDIE
(Voice in head, shouting in panic)
No! Venom, stop! We don't kill people! These aren't bad guys!
VENOM
They are weak! And I am hungry!
Venom ignored Eddie. He crouched low, then launched his massive body onto the ceiling above the lobby. He moved on all fours, fast and silent like a giant spider in the shadows, chasing the group fleeing into the building.
Chishiya, who had been observing the whole time, used the chaos as a smokescreen. He slipped away coolly, disappearing down another corridor... heading straight for the surveillance room.
Arisu and Usagi reached the end of the hallway. It was a dead end. Only an elevator door and a fire exit that was locked from the other side.
ARISU
(Banging on the door)
Dammit! It's stuck!
THUD!
A large, dark shadow fell over them from above. Slowly, they looked up, hearts sinking.
Venom was hanging upside down from the ceiling, less than ten meters away. Thick, viscous drool dripped onto the floor.
Those white eyes stared deep into theirs.
VENOM
Found you...
Venom dropped to the floor in front of Arisu and Usagi. His tongue lashed out hungrily, almost grazing Arisu’s face.
VENOM
You smell sweet... like fear.
EDDIE
Don't! Venom! We don't do this! This isn't a hunt!
VENOM
Quiet, Eddie! I am having breakfast!
The second Venom raised a claw to swipe at them, Usagi’s survival instincts kicked in.
USAGI
(Shoving Arisu aside)
Arisu! Move!
She launched a powerful kick straight into Venom’s chest!
THWACK!
The attack was completely useless physically, but it bought them a fraction of a second.
Arisu’s brain fired rapidly. The image of Niragi shooting Venom replayed in his mind. The flinch...
ARISU
(Shouting)
NOISE!
Usagi didn't understand, but she was ready to act. Arisu scrambled to the wall next to the elevator, his hands searching for anything that could make a sound.
He saw it. A bright red emergency fire alarm box mounted above a hydrant.
ARISU
(Raspy scream)
Usagi! Smash it! The alarm!
Usagi saw the opening. She leaped from the floor, launching herself at the alarm box. With a powerful swing of her boot, she kicked the glass cover.
CRASH!
The glass shattered, followed instantly by a high-frequency, ear-piercing emergency siren screaming through the narrow hallway!
VENOM
ARRRRRGH!!
Venom froze instantly. His massive body convulsed violently. The white eyes shrank in pain. He clapped both hands over his head, roaring in agony.
VENOM
SOUND... NOISE! IT BURNS!
EDDIE
That's it! His weakness! Go!
That was their only chance! Arisu grabbed Usagi, who was stunned by the monster's reaction.
ARISU
(Yelling over the siren)
Let's go! It won't last long!
They bolted toward a large ventilation duct above the elevator doors. Usagi used her climbing skills to kick off the wall, grab the grate, and kick it open. They scrambled into the cramped space.
CRUNCH!
Venom recovered from the initial shock of the pain. He looked up just in time to see the soles of their shoes disappearing into the vent.
VENOM
YOU CANNOT ESCAPE!
The black beast didn't waste time trying to squeeze into the vent. instead, he used his raw strength. With a swipe of his massive claws, he tore through the concrete wall and the elevator doors like they were wet paper.
Concrete dust and wires sprayed everywhere. Venom created a hole the size of his own body in the wall and crawled through, forcing his way into the service shafts that connected to the hotel's Kitchen Zone.
Chapter 7: Gunfire and Flames
Summary:
In a cramped and dangerous kitchen, Arisu and Usagi face a furious Venom with nowhere to run. The fight for survival hits a climax when Aguni and his soldiers join the fray, turning the fight into a bullet hell.
But bullets don't stop the monster—pain only drives it into a berserk rage. With no weapons left to stop it, Arisu makes a desperate choice: to blow the whole place up.
An inferno swallows everything instantly. Yet, when the smoke clears and the heavy cost is revealed... the monster is still standing. Badly injured but full of hate, its goal is clearer than before... the revenge hunt has started.
Chapter Text
Interior - Kitchen and Service Zone - Continuous
Arisu and Usagi tumbled out of the vent shaft, landing on the cold stainless steel counters of a massive industrial kitchen. The floor was slick with grease and water. Large cleavers hung from magnetic racks, and a huge gas range dominated the center of the room.
USAGI
(Panting heavily)
It... it's following us!
ARISU
(Scanning frantically)
We need a sound source... or...
Suddenly, the screech of tearing metal echoed from the corridor they just exited. Venom’s massive frame burst through the reinforced steel door as if it were cardboard. He rose to his full, terrifying height in the kitchen.
VENOM
COME HERE!
Venom lashed out with a tendril, grabbing a large stainless steel dumpster and hurling it at them like a toy!
CRASH!
Arisu and Usagi dove just in time. The dumpster smashed into the back wall, denting deeply into the concrete.
ARISU
(Looking at the gas range)
Fire... It must be scared of fire too! Usagi! Go there!
He pointed to the massive stove where pilot lights still flickered with faint blue flames. It wasn't far from Venom.
Venom lunged at them again. But this time... he was faster. He was learning to ignore the pain from the fading siren.
Arisu saw they wouldn't make it. He grabbed a heavy meat cleaver from the rack and hurled it at Venom.
THWACK!
The blade buried itself in Venom’s shoulder. It didn't slow him down one bit. Venom didn't even grunt. He just glanced at the knife and kept coming...
And now, he was only steps away.
Pitch-black claws raised high, ready to shred Arisu and Usagi into ribbons.
In that split second between life and death, Usagi didn't retreat. She stepped forward and kicked a large jerrycan of cooking oil sitting on the floor with all her might.
SPLASH!
Thick, yellow oil sprayed across the stainless steel floor right in front of Venom. The symbiote lost its footing, skidding uncontrollably forward. His massive bulk crashed into a shelf full of pots and pans, sending them clattering everywhere in a deafening cacophony.
CLANG! CRASH!
Venom roared in fury, but it bought Arisu enough time!
ARISU
(Shouting)
Usagi! Get back!
Arisu scrambled to the gas range. He ignored the pilot lights; he went straight for the main red gas valve connected to the supply pipe on the wall.
He put every ounce of his strength into turning the rusted, stiff wheel.
VENOM
YOU! TRICKY LITTLE HUMAN!
Venom scrambled back to his feet. He prepared to lunge at Arisu from behind.
But suddenly!
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
The other kitchen door burst open. Aguni and four or five militant players stormed in. Armed with automatic assault rifles, they unleashed hell on Venom’s body!
The gunfire in the enclosed kitchen was louder than the siren, echoing painfully off the metal walls!
VENOM
AAAAARRRGGHHHH!!!!!
Venom shrieked, a sound of genuine agony. He collapsed to the floor, clutching his head again. The black sludge on his body rippled violently, detaching in places to reveal glimpses of Eddie’s skin underneath.
AGUNI
(Barking orders)
Keep firing! Don't let it recover! Kill it!
The militants advanced, firing point-blank. Shell casings rained onto the steel floor like metallic hail.
EDDIE
Venom! We gotta run! The noise... it's too much!
VENOM
NO! I WILL... EAT... THEM... ALL!!!
Venom’s rage and survival instinct overpowered the pain. He fought through the wall of sound and roared back. Dozens of black tendrils shot from his back like vipers, lashing out at the soldiers madly!
One man was choked by a tendril and slammed violently into the ceiling. Another was pierced straight through his body armor, lifted into the air!
Aguni’s eyes widened in shock. "Impossible!"
Amidst the chaos, Arisu gathered his last ounce of strength.
ARISU
Rrrraaaagh!
CREAK!
He twisted the valve open!
A loud HISS of escaping gas filled the air instantly, growing louder by the second. The pungent smell of gas flooded the kitchen.
The blue pilot lights still burned...
Arisu looked at Usagi, standing guard near him. Then he looked at Aguni and his men fighting a losing battle against the monster.
Everyone froze as they heard the hiss and smelled the fumes.
Realization dawned on their faces...
The entire kitchen... was about to become a massive bomb.
Silence took over for a heartbeat. Everyone in the room—human and monster alike—paused, realizing they were standing inside a powder keg.
The only sound was the hiss of gas and the flicker of the tiny blue flames... a countdown to death.
Aguni was the first to snap out of it. He knew the fight was over. Now, it was just survival.
AGUNI
(Roaring)
RETREAT! EVERYONE FALL BACK! IT'S GONNA BLOW!
The soldiers didn't wait. They ceased fire and scrambled back toward the door they came in, running for their lives.
The sudden silence from the ceased gunfire allowed Venom to regain some focus. But his raw instincts screamed of a danger far worse than bullets. He tasted the chemicals in the air... felt the impending heat.
VENOM
FIRE! BIG FIRE! WE GO!
EDDIE
Where?! It's gas everywhere!
Venom had few options. Ignoring the doors, he used all his strength to ram into the side wall furthest from the stove!
CRASH!!
The concrete wall shattered. Venom barreled through to the service corridor on the other side, fleeing desperately from the flames he hated most.
At the same time...
ARISU
(Grabbing Usagi’s hand)
Usagi! This way!
Arisu dragged Usagi toward a heavy steel door—likely a walk-in freezer or pantry. They pushed against the heavy weight together.
CREAK...
The stiff hinges groaned open, revealing the darkness of the storage room inside.
AGUNI
(Looking back, shouting)
MOVE IT!
Aguni and the last soldier were just clearing the kitchen door.
Arisu glanced at the blue flame one last time. He saw the air around the pilot light warping as the gas density reached critical mass.
ARISU
(Screaming)
GET DOWN!!!
He and Usagi dove into the storage room just as the gas cloud touched the flame.
In that second... the world turned white.
KABOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!
A violent explosion tore through the room!
A shockwave of immense heat and pressure blasted outward, shredding everything in its path. The kitchen walls were blown apart. An orange tsunami of fire flooded the area.
The blast force threw Arisu and Usagi, who had just made it inside, slamming them hard against the shelves in the back of the freezer.
ARISU
Gah!
Everything went black for a moment. Only a high-pitched ringing filled Arisu’s ears.
Scene: Exterior - The Beach, Main Lobby - Continuous
The other survivors hiding in various corners of The Beach jumped as the tremors from the explosion reached them. Fire and black smoke billowed from the corridor leading to the kitchen zone.
Chishiya, watching from the second-floor balcony, raised an eyebrow slightly. His eyes held a cold admiration.
CHISHIYA
(Muttering to himself)
...Interesting.
The Witch Hunt... interrupted by a Monster Hunt, ending in massive destruction. But the most important question remained unanswered...
Is it dead?
Silence...
That was the first thing Arisu perceived as the explosion settled. The ringing in his ears faded, replaced by the crackling of flames licking at the ruins.
He opened his eyes. Everything was blurry. Thick smoke made breathing difficult. The smell of burnt meat and melted plastic was nauseating.
ARISU
(Coughing violently)
Usagi... Usagi! Where are you?
USAGI
(Voice faint)
...Here... I'm here...
Arisu crawled toward the voice. He found Usagi lying next to a toppled shelf of canned food. She had scrapes on her arms and face, but she seemed okay.
They helped each other stand, then slowly walked to the ruined doorway to look outside.
The sight left them speechless.
The massive kitchen was now just twisted metal and charred, blackened walls. Fires still burned everywhere. The heat radiating from the room stung their skin.
USAGI
(Voice trembling)
Did... did we get it?
Arisu scanned the wreckage. No sign of that massive black body. Just empty, burning ruin.
Hope began to form in his chest. "Maybe... maybe that kind of heat burned it to ash..."
AGUNI
YOU! YOU LITTLE SHIT!
A furious roar came from the other side of the fire. Aguni and a few surviving soldiers stumbled out of the corridor. They looked terrible—clothes tattered, faces covered in soot. Aguni had a large burn on one arm.
AGUNI
(Pointing at Arisu, eyes bloodshot with rage)
What the hell did you do!? You almost killed us all! I lost two men in that fire!
ARISU
(Shouting back)
It was the only way! If I didn't do it, that thing would have killed us all anyway!
AGUNI
The only way!? Your way is to blow everything up!?
As they faced off intensely, Usagi noticed something wrong.
A dark shadow moving through the smoke...
It wasn't coming from the kitchen wreckage... but from the corridor the monster had smashed through before the explosion.
USAGI
(Whispering, terrified)
Arisu...
The black figure stepped slowly out of the shadows.
It was Venom.
But he looked completely different. His form was unstable, the black substance rippling erratically. There were patches of charred sludge revealing Eddie’s severely injured, burned skin underneath. He was smaller than before, but the terror he radiated had multiplied.
The sound and fire hadn't killed him... it just pissed him off.
The arguing and gunfire stopped instantly. Every eye locked onto the injured, enraged monster.
Venom didn't roar. He just stood there, glaring at everyone with white eyes filled with pure vengeance. Then, his head snapped to focus on Arisu and Aguni... the two who had hurt him the most.
VENOM
(Voice raspy, dripping with hate)
You... hurt... us...
A sharp tendril slowly grew from his arm, honing into a spike.
VENOM
Now... our turn... to play.
He didn't care about eating anymore. Now... he just wanted revenge.
Chapter 8: Requiem of Sound and Soul
Summary:
Cornered with no escape, Arisu and Usagi decided to turn the stage control room into a death trap. Facing the berserk Venom for the last time, they used everything they had: ear-piercing sound and high-voltage fire.
Amidst the monster's shrieks and Eddie's sacrifice within his own mind, a final explosion seemed to end the black demon's terror.
But as silence fell and everyone thought the nightmare had passed, the 'Game' announcement rang out, revealing an even harsher truth. The interdimensional beast might be gone, but the inner demons of humanity are waking up. The 'Witch Hunt' mission must be solved before the time is up!
Chapter Text
Exterior - Ruins of The Beach Kitchen - Continuous
The suffocating silence didn't last long. Aguni was the one to break it. Gritting his teeth, he shouldered his assault rifle once more.
AGUNI
(Roaring at the survivors)
IT’S WOUNDED! SHOOT! SHOOT IT DOWN!
BANG! BANG!
The last few rounds were fired, but this time... Venom wasn't taking them head-on.
His shrunken form was shockingly faster. He darted sideways, dodging bullets as effortlessly as a shadow, using the collapsed building as cover before propelling himself onto the ruined second-floor wall.
VENOM
Stupid... repetitive.
He scuttled along the wall like a reptile before launching himself into the center of the militants!
The slaughter began.
Sharp black tendrils lashed out with whip-like precision. They didn't strike to destroy, but to kill. One soldier was silently impaled through the throat. Another had his leg snared and was smashed violently against a crumbling wall, silenced instantly.
AGUNI
(Growling)
DEMON!
Aguni charged recklessly, attempting to bash Venom with the butt of his rifle. But Venom wrapped a tendril around his arm, then another around his torso, effortlessly hurling the massive man across the courtyard and into the pool.
SPLASH!
Now... no one stood in his way.
Venom turned slowly. His white eyes locked onto the primary target... Arisu.
ARISU
(Voice trembling)
Usagi... RUN!
They turned and sprinted into the dark, smoke-filled corridors of The Beach. The sound of claws scraping against concrete echoed close behind them.
This wasn't aimless fleeing anymore. This was a strategic retreat for survival.
Interior - Corridors of The Beach - Continuous
Arisu and Usagi raced through the debris. Wires dangled from the ceiling; small fires still burned in corners.
USAGI
(Panting)
Where are we going?! He's faster than us!
Suddenly, Venom crashed through the ceiling ahead of them, blocking their path! He bared his fangs, but before he could strike, his body twitched. A hand flew up to clutch his temple.
VENOM
THEY MUST DIE!
EDDIE
(Desperate voice in his head)
Stop it! Please! That kid... they're just trying to survive! We aren't murderers!
VENOM
THEY BURNED US! THEY MUST PAY!
The internal conflict left Venom vulnerable for a split second.
ARISU
THIS WAY!
Arisu pulled Usagi into a sharp turn toward another hall. They ran past ruined rooms... suites, lounges... until Arisu skidded to a halt in front of one specific door.
It was the DJ Control Room and Stage, adjacent to the main lobby.
USAGI
Why here? It's wide open!
ARISU
(Pointing to the massive concert speakers and complex lighting rig)
Sound... and Fire... His weaknesses!
The plan formed rapidly in his mind.
ARISU
(Talking to himself and Usagi)
Gunshots worked... Fire worked... but we've been doing it halfway. We need to use both... simultaneously... and intense enough that he can't endure it! We aren't just driving him away... we have to break him from the inside!
He looked at the lighting console and the tangled wires, then at the sound mixer and the giant speakers.
This wasn't running anymore.
This was setting a trap for the kill.
CRASH!
The door was smashed in. Venom, now fully back in control, loomed in the doorway.
VENOM
NOWHERE... LEFT TO RUN.
Venom stood tall at the entrance, white eyes fixed on his cornered prey. But he didn't realize he was stepping right into the kill zone.
Arisu didn't wait. He dove for the massive sound console. His hands shook, but his mind was ice-cold.
ARISU
(Shouting)
USAGI! STALL HIM! I NEED TO CRANK IT!
Usagi understood instantly. She grabbed a large DJ monitor screen from the counter and hurled it with all her strength at Venom’s head!
CRASH!
The screen shattered, but Venom didn't flinch. He just extended a claw, lunging forward!
In that fraction of a second, Arisu grabbed a microphone plugged into the mixer... and twisted the Master Volume knob all the way to the max!
SCREEEEEEEEEEEEECH—!!!
High-frequency feedback from the mic, amplified through the massive concert speakers at max volume, blasted out! It was a wall of sound, physically painful and violent.
VENOM
GAAAAAAHHRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!
Venom let out a long, tortured shriek. His body convulsed as if electrocuted. The black mass began to separate and ripple uncontrollably. His eyes rolled back in agonizing pain.
USAGI
(Yelling over the noise)
IT'S WORKING!
But Arisu didn't stop. He twisted the High Frequency EQ knob to the limit to maximize the pain. Simultaneously, he ducked down to the stage lighting control panel below.
He used a small pocket knife he’d hidden to slash directly into the main power cable of the panel!
SNAP! ZZRT!
A bright blue spark flashed instantly. A short circuit! The stage lights and spotlights outside exploded one by one—POP! POP! The control room filled with smoke and the smell of ozone and burning wires.
Venom, already tortured by the sound, was now bombarded by intense heat and wild electricity!
VENOM
(Deep voice distorted by pain)
AHH... FIRE! NOISE! STOP! ARGHHH!
The black substance began to peel off Eddie’s body rapidly, revealing his scorched skin underneath, screaming in agony.
EDDIE
(Final, tortured voice in his head)
ENOUGH! THAT'S ENOUGH... I'M SORRY!
The pain gave Eddie a moment of clarity. With every ounce of strength he had left in that second... he stopped Venom's attack!
Venom’s massive hand, raised to swipe at Arisu, froze in mid-air. Halted by Eddie’s final will.
That was the last chance!
ARISU
(Grabbing Usagi)
GO! NOW!
They vaulted over the counter instantly, never looking back. The figure of Venom/Eddie was left in the sparking, screaming control room, slowly being undone by the weapons he was weakest against.
BOOM!
The main control panel exploded into a final, massive fireball, illuminating Arisu and Usagi’s desperate escape.
The silence that followed the final explosion was louder than any noise before it.
Arisu and Usagi slumped against a wall far away, gasping for air. Their bodies were covered in soot and scrapes. The sound of the blast still rang in their ears.
The flames in the DJ room slowly died down, leaving only thick black smoke drifting into the starless night sky.
USAGI
(Raspy voice)
Is... is it really over?
Arisu didn't answer immediately. He stared at the charred ruins of the control room. His body trembled, not from fear... but from the adrenaline crash.
SPLASH!
Something fell into the empty pool. Both jumped and turned to look.
Aguni slowly pulled himself up from the center of the pool. He was alive, though heavily wounded and visibly weak. He looked at the ruins of the DJ room, then turned to look at Arisu with a complicated gaze... one that was no longer filled with rage.
Other survivors began to emerge from their hiding spots slowly. They looked at the wreckage in disbelief.
No one dared approach... until Chishiya walked down the stairs from the second floor casually, as if he’d just taken a stroll in the park. He walked straight to the smoldering ruins.
CHISHIYA
(Muttering softly to himself)
Using sound and high heat simultaneously to attack the weakness... A desperate decision, but surprisingly effective.
He kicked a piece of melted metal with his shoe. No sign of a human body or the monster’s remains... as if it had been burned into nothingness.
It seemed... everything was truly over.
But amidst the growing relief, no one noticed...
The camera angle panned low to a piece of debris blown far from the explosion.
A palm-sized blob of black slime... pulsing like a heart. It slowly oozed off the hot metal, then crawled sluggishly... silently... slithering into the shadows beneath the rubble... waiting for a new host.
Suddenly!
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
(Cold and clear once again)
Forty-five minutes remaining.
Everyone in the area flinched!
The brutal reality slammed back into their consciousness instantly.
They hadn't survived... they had only survived that thing.
The Game wasn't over.
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
Find the "Witch"... and burn the Witch in the fire...
The eyes of every survivor changed instantly. The relief vanished, replaced rapidly by paranoia and selfishness returning in full force.
Aguni climbed out of the pool, staring at the body of Momoka still lying in the center of the lobby... which was now surrounded by small fires caused by the explosion.
The fire to burn the witch... had already been lit.
Arisu looked at Usagi, then at the others around him. The battle against the interdimensional monster might be over...
But the hunt for the "monster" hiding inside the hearts of humans...
...had only just truly begun.
Chapter 9: The King is Dethroned
Summary:
The chaos is far from over. Niragi, the unhinged madman left for dead, has unearthed a bloody legacy left behind by an extradimensional beast... the Black Symbiote.
It grants superhuman power to the most twisted psyche at The Beach. His return isn't merely for revenge—it is for total domination! Aguni, the indomitable lion whom no one could overthrow, suffers a crushing defeat against this new, unrivaled power.
With the "King" brought to his knees, the laws of The Beach are rewritten in blood and terror. The "Witch Hunt" pales in comparison as Niragi—now bonded with Venom—announces a new, far more twisted game: " The Rabbit Hunt."
With Arisu and Usagi marked as the prey, every player at The Beach must transform into a ruthless hound just to survive!
Chapter Text
Exterior - The Beach, Main Lobby - Continuous
The stunned silence following the game announcement was shattered by Aguni’s roar. Ignoring the burns on his arm, he pointed to the fire still burning in the center of the lobby—the one caused by the earlier explosion.
AGUNI
(Voice raspy but commanding)
YOU HEARD IT! THE GAME ISN'T OVER! THAT MONSTER WAS JUST A DISTRACTION!
He pointed a shaking finger at Momoka’s lifeless body.
AGUNI
THE "WITCH" IS STILL AMONG US! AND WE HAVE A FIRE READY!
Panic instantly turned into frenzy. Aguni’s remaining militant players sprang into action, grabbing the nearest, weakest-looking survivors.
SURVIVOR WOMAN
(Screaming)
No! I'm not the Witch! Let me go!
ARISU
(Shouting over the chaos)
STOP! EVERYONE CALM DOWN! THIS IS WHAT THE GAME WANTS! IT WANTS US TO KILL EACH OTHER! WE HAVE TO THINK! WE NEED TO FIND THE REAL WITCH!
MILITANT PLAYER
(Shoving Arisu)
Shut the fuck up! You almost killed us all with that explosion! Who knows... maybe you're the Witch!
The accusation sent a chill down Arisu’s spine. The eyes of the people around him turned to him, filled with suspicion and fear. He was at the center of all the strange events... he was the one who lured the monster... he was the one who set off the explosion.
Usagi stepped in front of Arisu, shielding him with her body.
USAGI
He saved our lives!
AGUNI
(Laughing bitterly)
Saved? Or just eliminated the competition? In this fucked-up world... it's the same thing! Keep an eye on him!
A new wave of chaos began. The true witch hunt had commenced. Accusations flew wildly; screams and fights broke out once more.
And amidst the confusion...
A figure slowly pulled himself up from the ruins of the demolished bar counter... where he had been thrown long ago.
Niragi.
His head was bleeding, blood streaming down his face. His eyes were wide with rage and humiliation. He remembered everything... his pathetic defeat at the hands of that monster.
NIRAGI
(Muttering)
Fucking... bastards... all of them...
He fumbled for his rifle, only to find it twisted and useless from the impact. He cursed violently, kicking it away before limping into the shadows to find a new weapon.
He stumbled through the debris scattered by the final explosion... and tripped.
NIRAGI
Shit!
He threw his hand out to break his fall... and it landed in something sticky and cold.
He looked down.
A small blob of black substance... was clinging to his palm.
NIRAGI
What the hell is...
He tried to shake it off violently, but it wouldn't let go. instead... it began to spread slowly, seeping into his skin like living ink.
A strange sensation shot through his arm. It wasn't pain... but POWER.
The wound on his head began to knit itself back together so fast he could feel it. The exhaustion and pain evaporated, replaced by a sense of strength he had never felt before.
A deep voice, with no source, echoed in his head...
STRONG... ANGRY... HATEFUL... LIKE US...
Niragi’s eyes widened... then his lips slowly curled into a smile... a smile more twisted and evil than ever before.
NIRAGI
(Laughing low in his throat)
This... this is fantastic...
He held up his hand. The black substance had covered his entire arm... and it was forming into sharp, wicked claws.
WE... WILL TEAR THEM ALL... TO PIECES...
NIRAGI
Yeah... "WE" will.
The witch hunt raged on, but the players were oblivious to the fact that...
The true predator... now more ruthless and insane than ever...
Was about to re-enter the game.
The chaos of the renewed witch hunt erupted instantly. People were driven by the fear of death and paranoia until they lost all reason.
Aguni stood above the crowd like a dictator. His wounds seemed to only fuel his fiery madness.
AGUNI
(Pointing at Arisu)
IT'S HIM! EVERYTHING STARTED WHEN HE SHOWED UP! THAT MONSTER! THE EXPLOSION! HE MUST BE THE "WITCH" WHO PLANNED IT ALL!
Many players turned to look at Arisu as one. They needed a scapegoat, and Arisu was the perfect choice.
MALE PLAYER
(Shouting)
YEAH! IT'S HIM! GRAB HIM!
ARISU
(Backing away)
NO! LISTEN TO ME! THIS IS THE GAME'S TRAP!
But no one was listening anymore. A group of people, led by Aguni’s remaining militants, began to advance slowly toward Arisu and Usagi. Their eyes showed they were ready to tear the two apart.
Just as the situation was about to reach its breaking point...
SQUELCH!
A sickening sound echoed from the dark corner of the ruined bar... Not a gunshot, not an explosion, but the sound of flesh being violently torn apart.
Followed by a soft "Ghk...", and the body of one of Aguni’s men crumpled to the floor. Blood gushed from a massive wound in his throat.
Everyone froze, turning as one toward the source of the sound.
Niragi’s figure slowly stepped out of the shadows.
But he didn't look the same. The severe head wound was gone without a trace. His tattered clothes seemed to be "repaired" by strange black fibers that weren't quite visible. Most importantly... his eyes.
They weren't just insane anymore; they held a hunger... that was not human.
AGUNI
(Frowning)
Niragi? You... you aren't dead?
Niragi chuckled low in his throat. It was a hollow, distorted sound.
NIRAGI
Dead? Not even close... I just got... an upgrade.
Suddenly, another man standing near Niragi charged at him in anger. "YOU KILLED MY FRIEND!"
Niragi didn't even fully turn to look.
THWIP!
A pitch-black tendril shot out from Niragi’s back at high speed. It pierced the man’s chest with pinpoint accuracy, then dragged him back into the shadows along with a scream that was horrifically cut short.
Silence blanketed The Beach again, but this time it was a silence born of absolute terror. Everyone... even Aguni... stood frozen.
Niragi straightened up slowly. Black substance flowed over his entire right arm, transforming it into a hideous, sharp claw.
NIRAGI
(Grinning wide and terrifying)
This stupid witch hunt bullshit... It's over.
His gaze swept the room like the grim reaper choosing his next victim.
NIRAGI
From now on... there's only one rule... The rule of US.
As he said the word "US," half of his face was rapidly consumed by the black substance, revealing a wide white eye and a mouth full of razor-sharp fangs... It was the face of that monster... but infused with all of Niragi’s madness and malice.
NIRAGI/VENOM
AND WE... ARE FUCKING STARVING.
A palpable dread washed over The Beach. It was colder than death and heavier than despair. No one dared to move, no one dared to breathe loudly.
Aguni, who had been the symbol of absolute power in this place, now stared at Niragi with eyes that were a mix of anger and disbelief.
AGUNI
(Gritting his teeth)
You... what the hell are you?
Niragi/Venom laughed under his breath. The laughter was two tones overlapping... Niragi’s familiar mockery and the symbiote’s inhuman depth.
NIRAGI/VENOM
I'm evolution, Aguni... This is what happens... when you let scum like me... get a taste of real power!
Aguni’s patience ran out. He had never bowed to anyone, and he wasn't about to start now.
AGUNI
ARGHHHHHHH!!!
Aguni roared like a wounded animal. He charged at Niragi with all his might. The right fist that had felled countless men was swung with full force, aiming to crush that disgusting face.
But that fist... never reached its target.
THWIP!
Inches before Aguni’s fist connected with Niragi’s face, three pitch-black tendrils shot from Niragi’s side, catching the fist mid-air as easily as catching a ball.
Aguni’s eyes widened in shock. He tried to pull his fist back, but it was like it was clamped in steel.
NIRAGI/VENOM
(Tilting his head mockingly)
Is that it? The power of the "King" of The Beach? Pathetic...
Niragi used his free arm to lazily punch Aguni in the stomach... but it landed with the force of a sledgehammer. Aguni’s massive frame crumpled.
Then, the tendrils holding Aguni’s fist hurled his entire body into the air, smashing him down onto the concrete floor violently!
CRASH!!
The floor cracked. Aguni coughed up blood, but he didn't give up. He tried to push himself up again.
NIRAGI/VENOM
STILL... NOT SATISFIED? FINE...
Black substance flowed down to cover both of Niragi’s legs before he leaped at the rising Aguni with incredible speed, then stomped on his chest repeatedly in a frenzy!
CRUNCH! CRUNCH! CRUNCH!
The horrifying sound of ribs breaking echoed loudly. Aguni’s body was kicked several meters away and lay still on the floor, breathing raggedly, unable to move again.
The King... had been dethroned.
Niragi/Venom stood panting slightly, not from exhaustion, but from the ecstasy of decisive victory. He straightened up and turned to look at the remaining crowd... who were now trembling like lambs waiting for the slaughter.
NIRAGI/VENOM
ANYONE ELSE... WANT TO TRY?
There was no answer, only faint sobbing.
His gaze swept around... past Chishiya watching curiously from the second floor... past Kuina standing in a desperate guard stance... and stopped at Arisu and Usagi.
NIRAGI/VENOM
(Grinning)
The Witch Hunt is boring... Let's play something more personal...
How about a game of 'Rabbit Hunt'?
He pointed a sharp claw at Arisu and Usagi.
NIRAGI/VENOM
YOU TWO... ARE THE RABBITS... THE REST OF YOU... IF YOU DON'T WANT TO DIE, BE MY 'HOUNDS'! WHOEVER BRINGS ME THESE TWO RABBITS... I'LL LET YOU LIVE!
He turned to stare intensely at Arisu and Usagi.
NIRAGI/VENOM
BUT TO MAKE IT FUN... WE'LL LET THE RABBITS GET A HEAD START...
COUNTING ONE TO TEN... THEN THE HUNT BEGINS...
TEN...
A new wave of despair, darker than any before it, had begun.
Chapter 10: The Six-Eyed Demon
Summary:
Just as Niragi, the host of the Symbiote, prepares to conclude the "Rabbit Hunt" and unleash a massacre upon the players of The Beach, the deadly dimension distorts once more to welcome an entity far more terrifying.
Kokushibo, Upper Rank One, wielding his flesh sword and six ominous eyes, steps through a dimensional rift into the heart of the chaos. As two monsters from different worlds collide... a battle between "Alien Bio-technology" and "Moon Breathing" erupts!
The once-invincible Symbiote is about to learn the meaning of true pain at the hands of a blade capable of tearing through dimensions. With only one victor possible... will the fate of Arisu and the remaining survivors be decided by a new "Hunter" who sees them as nothing more than weak prey?
Chapter Text
...NINE...
Niragi/Venom's countdown echoed through the silent courtyard. It was the sound of an execution clock. Arisu knew they had no choice.
ARISU
(Whispering, drenched in sweat)
Usagi... don't look at him... look for an escape route...
...EIGHT...
The eyes of the other survivors, once filled with fear, began to change in some. Desperation pushed them to pick a side... and siding with the strongest monster was better than a meaningless death.
...SEVEN...
A few men began to move slowly, splitting up to encircle Arisu and Usagi. They had fully become "The Hounds."
USAGI
(Gritting her teeth)
What do we do...
...FOUR...
...THREE...
...TWO...
ARISU
(Grabbing Usagi’s hand)
RUN!!!
...ONE!!!
As the final count dropped, Arisu and Usagi bolted like arrows released from a bow. They didn't run for the exit, but deeper into the ruins of the hotel, using the complex terrain to their advantage.
NIRAGI/VENOM
(Laughing with satisfaction)
HAHAHAHA! THAT'S IT! RUN, LITTLE BUNNIES! RUN! AND YOU LOT! BRING THEM TO ME!!!
The "Hounds" gave chase instantly. The twisted hunt had begun. Footsteps, shouts, and the sound of crashing debris filled the dark, smoky air.
Niragi/Venom didn't rush to follow immediately. He was savoring the chaos he had created... enjoying his newfound power.
But then...
ZWOOOOM—!!!
The air in the center of the lobby... right above Momoka's body... twisted violently.
It was like the dimensional rift that had sucked Eddie in before. A tear in reality formed. That high-pitched, ear-splitting screech rang out again.
Before anyone could react... a man's body was spat out of the rift. He slammed down on one knee, cracking the concrete floor beneath him.
He wore a purple hexagon-patterned kimono stained with blood—both his enemies' and his own. His tall, imposing frame bore several grievous wounds, but they were knitting themselves back together slowly, steam rising from the regenerating flesh.
But the most terrifying thing was his face... Six Eyes. All wide with confusion and utter rage. Engraved in the middle pair of eyes were the kanji for "Upper Rank" (上弦) and "One" (壱).
Kokushibo.
He was still panting heavily from a battle that had occurred just a split second ago. In his hand, he gripped a grotesque katana... a blade made from his own flesh, covered in unblinking eyes.
KOKUSHIBO
(Muttering to himself)
...What is this? The Wind Hashira and Stone Hashira's attacks... they were not this powerful... Where... is this place?
The entire hunt ground to a halt. Every eye—Arisu, Usagi, and the Hounds—stared at the newcomer who looked just as terrifying as the monster they already feared.
Niragi/Venom narrowed his eyes. He sensed a different aura... not human, but not like him either. It was the aura of a predator who had survived centuries of slaughter.
NIRAGI/VENOM
Seems like... we have a lot of uninvited guests tonight... Who the fuck are you? Part of the game?
Kokushibo’s six eyes snapped to focus on Niragi/Venom instantly. His demon instincts screamed... the black figure before him smelled of death, evil, and bloodlust... but it was not a demon he recognized. It did not carry the scent of Him... Muzan.
But to Kokushibo... whatever it was... it was an anomaly that needed to be removed.
The flesh blade in his hand trembled. All his eyes locked onto the new enemy.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice cold and commanding)
Demon...
KOKUSHIBO
Your appearance is repulsive... but your aura... is strong...
He stood to his full height slowly. The rift behind him had closed, leaving him trapped in this unknown new world... with interesting new prey.
NIRAGI/VENOM
Strong? HAHAHA! You haven't seen anything yet!
Kokushibo didn't reply. He simply raised his blade into a stance. The air around him turned ice-cold.
KOKUSHIBO
I do not know what you are... and I do not care...
KOKUSHIBO
Since you stand in my way... perish.
The tension in the air was palpable. Every survivor... whether fleeing or hunting... stood frozen like statues. They had become mere spectators in a festival of unimaginable horror.
Arisu and Usagi watched in dread. Kokushibo was arguably more terrifying than Venom. His six eyes and alien sword looked like something out of a nightmare.
Niragi/Venom showed no fear, only excitement at facing an unknown foe.
NIRAGI/VENOM
HAHAHAHA! What are you blabbering about?! If you want to die, come get some! I'll tear you apart and eat you whole!
KOKUSHIBO
(Coldly)
Absurd.
No more words. Kokushibo launched himself at Niragi/Venom with superhuman speed!
KOKUSHIBO
Moon Breathing, First Form: Dark Moon, Evening Palace.
The katana in Kokushibo’s hand flashed in the darkness. He drew it with merciless precision, creating a singular, horizontal slash. But along the path of the blade, countless chaotic crescent blades materialized.
SLASH! CRACK! THWIP-THWIP!
The attack was too fast and erratic for the human eye to follow. Niragi/Venom screamed in pain for the first time since bonding!
NIRAGI/VENOM
ARGHHH!!! WHAT THE FUCK!?
The black substance on Niragi/Venom’s body was sliced away like hot butter, revealing Niragi’s skin underneath. A massive gash opened up, deep enough to expose bone! It wasn't just a scratch; it was a devastating wound.
Fresh red blood sprayed from Niragi/Venom’s body like never before.
VENOM
(Panicked voice in head)
He... he cut us! I've never felt this before!
NIRAGI
(Confused and terrified voice in head)
What are you saying!? It hurts! It fucking hurts!
The wounds began to heal rapidly, but not instantaneously like before. Kokushibo didn't stop there. He spun and swung his blade again!
KOKUSHIBO
Moon Breathing, Sixth Form: Perpetual Night, Lonely Moon - Incessant.
Kokushibo unleashed a wild storm of slashes in multiple directions. Countless crescent moon blades spiraled out, tearing into Niragi/Venom like a tempest that cut everything in its path.
SLASH-SLASH-SLASH-SLASH!!!
Niragi/Venom didn't even have time to scream. He was slashed repeatedly until his body looked like it was being shredded from the inside. Black substance flew off in chunks, revealing a mangled Niragi underneath.
NIRAGI/VENOM
NO! IMPOSSIBLE! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU!?
KOKUSHIBO
(Standing perfectly still)
Just a demon...
Kokushibo showed no emotion. His six eyes remained calm. He sensed the black figure before him was durable... but directionless and untrained.
NIRAGI/VENOM
(Roaring with rage)
YOU... MUST... DIE!!!
Niragi/Venom gathered all his remaining strength. Dozens of black tendrils shot out from his back in a frenzy! Steel whips, sharp spikes, and symbiote blades formed simultaneously, attacking Kokushibo from every direction!
It was the most violent and sudden attack Niragi/Venom had ever unleashed!
Interior - Corridor of The Beach - Continuous
Arisu and Usagi, having put some distance between themselves and the crowd, heard the battle intensifying until the floor and walls shook.
ARISU
(Panting)
What is happening out there...
They looked back through a gap in the crumbled wall. What they saw... made their blood run cold.
The image of two monsters fighting fiercely... the invisible flashes of sword strikes... and the symbiote attacks that looked like giant octopus tentacles...
USAGI
(Trembling voice)
What kind of game... is this?
Dozens of thorny tendrils and blades rushed at Kokushibo from all sides. It was a formless storm of destruction, crushing the concrete floor and debris around him into dust.
But Kokushibo... stood calm.
His six eyes tracked every single trajectory perfectly. To him, this wasn't a storm... it was the pathetic flailing of prey.
When the first tendril was less than an arm's length away... he moved.
KOKUSHIBO
Moon Breathing, Sixteenth Form: Moonbow, Half Moon.
Kokushibo didn't dodge... instead, he swung his blade downward, creating a massive multi-slashing attack that crashed down from above like a falling sky.
What followed wasn't a fight... it was a massacre.
A dome of giant crescent moon slashes erupted around Kokushibo. It was a whirlwind of lunar blades spinning madly, shredding everything that entered its range.
Every symbiote tendril that rushed in... was minced into tiny pieces in a blink!
SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH!
No screams. Only the sound of flesh being pulverized. The black substance that once looked so formidable dissolved into the air like morning mist.
When the lunar storm settled, Kokushibo stood in the same spot, sword held in a finishing stance. Not a single scratch on him. Conversely... Niragi/Venom’s body, standing a distance away, was riddled with countless wounds, barely holding together.
VENOM
(Voice filled with genuine terror)
RUN! WE MUST RUN NOW! THIS THING... IT'S NOT HUMAN! IT'S NOT ALIVE! IT IS... DEATH!
NIRAGI
(Screaming in thought, insanely)
NO! IMPOSSIBLE! NO ONE IS BETTER THAN ME! NO ONE!!!
The internal conflict caused Niragi/Venom’s body to tremble violently. The black substance tried to separate from the critically injured Niragi to flee for its life, but Niragi held onto it with madness and arrogant pride.
Kokushibo watched the scene with indifferent eyes. He sensed the fear... and the weakness.
KOKUSHIBO
It is finished.
He vanished from where he stood...
Like the wind... his figure appeared behind Niragi/Venom in an instant.
KOKUSHIBO
Moon Breathing, Eighth Form: Moon-Dragon Ringtail.
The katana was swung just once... a simple, horizontal slash... but perfect.
...Schwing...
Everything went silent.
Niragi’s head... half of which was still Venom... flew into the air. His eyes were wide with disbelief and panic. Then, it fell to the ground with a wet thud.
His headless body stood still for a moment... before the symbiote mass let out a final, mournful shriek and rapidly dissolved off the corpse. It became a puddle of critically injured, terrified black slime. It quickly slithered away, disappearing into the darkest shadows of the ruins, fleeing for its life.
Niragi’s body, now free of the symbiote... collapsed to the floor... stone dead.
Kokushibo slowly flicked the blood off his blade. He glanced at the corpse with empty eyes.
KOKUSHIBO
Weak... just a fake demon with no substance.
He sheathed his sword... and turned slowly.
His six eyes... now focused on the remaining survivors... Arisu, Usagi, Chishiya, and the others who stood frozen like statues.
Niragi’s hunting game was over...
But for Upper Rank One... a new hunt...
...had only just begun.
Chapter 11: Truth in the Flames
Summary:
Kokushibo’s arrival has rewritten the rules of death. The Six-Eyed Demon delivers a final ultimatum: surrender the strongest warrior, or face total annihilation at dawn.
Amidst the pinnacle of despair, the mysterious dimensional rift awakens once more, banishing the otherworldly threat into the void forever. However, the "10 of Hearts" game is far from over, and the countdown to zero has begun.
With death breathing down their necks, Arisu must halt the crowd's descent into madness. Relying on cold logic, he attempts to solve the murder mystery and identify the true "Witch." The final piece of evidence—hidden within an old mobile phone—will unveil a shocking truth... one that will finally bring this night of hell to a close.
But in the shadows... the remnants of the demon are silently beginning a new cycle, one far more terrifying than before.
Chapter Text
Exterior - The Beach, Main Lobby - Continuous
The silence following Niragi’s death was heavier than anything before. No one dared to breathe loudly. Everyone stared at the headless corpse lying in a pool of blood... then flicked their terrified eyes to the six-eyed man standing still as a statue.
He was the victor... and now, he was the new ruler of this night.
Kokushibo slowly swept his six eyes across the area, assessing the remaining "prey." His gaze was filled with disappointment and disdain.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice cold and hollow)
Pathetic... nothing but weaklings trembling in fear... Not a single swordsman... not a single warrior... just prey waiting to die.
His words pierced everyone’s heart. It was a truth they could not deny.
The tension snapped when one man lost his mind.
MAN
ARGHHH! I'M OUT OF HERE!
The man turned and sprinted toward the main gate, running for his life. He was the first to dare move.
And the last.
ZWOOM!
No one saw Kokushibo move.
His figure vanished from where he stood... and reappeared instantly in front of the fleeing man... over 20 meters away, in the blink of an eye.
MAN
Ghk...
The man stopped dead. His eyes went wide with shock. He looked down at his chest slowly...
A clean, diagonal cut appeared... before his upper torso slowly slid off his lower body, falling to the ground with a sickening, wet sound.
SCHLICK... THUD!
Kokushibo stood there, his sword still sheathed. He hadn't even drawn it fully... he had merely passed by.
That image was the final straw that broke the survivors' morale completely. Running... was no longer an option.
Kokushibo walked slowly back to the center of the courtyard, ignoring the corpse he had created.
He turned to look at the bonfire still burning... the fire meant for the "Witch Hunt."
KOKUSHIBO
Your game... is over.
He turned to face everyone again, his six eyes glowing malevolently in the darkness.
KOKUSHIBO
I will give you a chance... I am looking for something... something worthy of my blade...
He raised one finger.
KOKUSHIBO
You have until the first light of dawn arrives... Bring me your strongest "warrior"... someone who can face me with dignity... even for a single technique.
His gaze swept across the crowd... pausing on Aguni, gasping for air... pausing on Kuina, gripping her baton tight... and stopping on Arisu and Usagi.
KOKUSHIBO
If you cannot... when the sun rises... I will slaughter every breathing soul in this place... one by one... slowly.
He walked over to a stone slab not far from the fire... sat down cross-legged... closed one eye... and placed his sword on his lap... entering a meditative state of waiting like a statue of the God of Death.
The "Ten of Hearts" game announcement had faded... replaced by a far crueler verdict.
They weren't playing a game to survive anymore...
They were being forced to choose... a sacrifice... to buy time for the rest.
The atmosphere at The Beach shifted entirely. The chaos and frenzy of the Witch Hunt were replaced by a heavy, hopeless silence.
Kokushibo sat motionless in meditation. Even with his eyes seemingly closed, everyone felt the aura of death radiating from him.
Arisu and Usagi hid behind the ruined bar counter, watching the unbelievably dire situation.
ARISU
(Whispering)
This is... worse than before... Where are we going to find a warrior to fight him? No one here can even touch him.
Usagi nodded, her face showing clear despair.
USAGI
Even Aguni is...
They glanced at Aguni lying in a pool of blood by the water. He was breathing shallowly, clearly unable to fight anymore.
Chishiya walked out of the shadows quietly. His eyes remained cold, but held a hint of interest in this twist of events.
CHISHIYA
(Speaking to Arisu and Usagi)
Looks like we're being forced to choose... Who will be the sacrifice... or do we let him kill everyone at sunrise?
KUINA
(Walking up to Chishiya)
You have an idea, don't you, Chishiya? I can tell...
Chishiya just smirked slightly, not answering, but his eyes scanned the entire ruin... as if looking for something.
CHISHIYA
The game just got interesting...
While everyone was searching for a non-existent solution...
VWOOOOOOOOOOOOM—!!!
Above Kokushibo’s head... in mid-air... a strange phenomenon occurred again!
It was a massive, violet-black dimensional rift, vibrating more violently than ever before!
It began to suck in light and small objects around it madly. The gravitational pull was so intense that the debris started to shake, and lighter objects like chairs and paper flew straight into the tear!
A high-pitched SCREEEEEEEEECH pierced everyone's ears!
Everyone screamed in terror, grabbing onto pillars or walls to avoid being sucked in!
Kokushibo, deep in meditation, snapped all six eyes open instantly! His gaze was filled with supreme displeasure and annoyance!
KOKUSHIBO
(Roaring in anger)
WHAT NOW!? WHAT IS THIS!?
He tried to stand up, but the gravitational pull from the rift was unbelievably strong! It was dragging his body toward the center of the tear relentlessly!
KOKUSHIBO
(Gritting his teeth)
RELEASE ME!
He tried to stab his sword into the ground to anchor himself, but the concrete shattered under the immense force! His body was lifted off the ground!
KOKUSHIBO
(Bellowing)
I REFUSE! I MUST SLAUGHTER THEM ALL FIRST!
But no matter how much demonic strength he used, he could not resist the mysterious force beyond his comprehension!
His six eyes flashed with utter fury. His face twisted in rage at being interrupted!
FWOOP! VWOOOOOOOOOM—!!!
Kokushibo’s body was swallowed whole by the violet-black rift into the darkness... before the tear snapped shut rapidly... vanishing from sight... leaving only silence... and the utter confusion of the remaining survivors.
Silence...
Once again, silence blanketed The Beach. But this time, it wasn't born of fear... but of absolute bewilderment.
Every survivor stood frozen like a statue, staring at the empty space where the ancient demon had just vanished. They had just escaped a death sentence... by an event that defied all explanation.
Chishiya was the first to break the silence. He dusted off his hoodie lightly and spoke in his usual flat tone.
CHISHIYA
(Looking up at the sky)
...Didn't know this game had a removal system for overpowered players.
His words snapped everyone back to reality. Arisu was the first to realize the most terrifying truth.
ARISU
(Voice trembling)
Wait... everyone...
He looked around the ruins. He looked at the bonfire still burning.
ARISU
That demon is gone... but... THE GAME ISN'T OVER!
As if waiting for a cue...
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
(Crackling through damaged speakers, broken but chilling)
FIFTEEN... MINUTES... REMAINING...
The truth hit everyone like a sledgehammer!
The relief that had just washed over them evaporated instantly, replaced by a fresh wave of panic! Time was running out!
MAN
(Shouting in despair)
WHAT DO WE DO NOW!? WE WASTED SO MUCH TIME ON THAT BULLSHIT!
WOMAN
(Crying)
WE HAVE TO FIND THE WITCH NOW! ANYONE! JUST THROW SOMEONE IN THE FIRE! QUICK!
A new wave of chaos was about to erupt... but this time, Arisu wouldn't let it happen.
ARISU
(Screaming at the top of his lungs)
STOP IT RIGHT NOW!!!
His voice echoed everywhere. Everyone froze and turned to look at him.
ARISU
(Panting, but eyes determined)
Killing each other isn't the answer! We almost all died fighting those monsters! We can't go back to killing each other! The "Ten of Hearts" game is more than just random slaughter! It's a riddle!
He walked through the crowd to the center of the courtyard... to where it all began.
ARISU
We have to stop pointing fingers and start using our brains! We need to investigate!
He pointed to Momoka’s lifeless body, still lying near the fire.
ARISU
The answer... must be here! With the first "Witch's" body!
The other survivors looked at each other. Uncertainty was clear in their eyes. But after facing supernatural death twice... returning to a murder mystery seemed like the sanest option.
Usagi, Kuina, and even Chishiya slowly followed Arisu.
Aguni, lying injured, pushed himself up to watch... the look in his eyes when he saw Arisu changed slightly.
The rest of the crowd hesitated... before slowly shuffling to gather around the crime scene.
The night of fighting monsters was over...
But the murder investigation, with everyone's lives at stake... had just truly begun. With precious little time left.
The dwindling time pressed on everyone's sanity, but under Arisu's lead, the chaos transformed into a desperate attempt at reason.
Arisu knelt beside Momoka’s body. His eyes scanned every detail rapidly—the angle of the knife, the nature of the wound, the blood spatter...
ARISU
(Muttering to himself)
...It's strange... The angle of the knife is too steep... If she was stabbed from the front, the killer would have to be very small... But if...
He paused. A thought struck him... a horrifying but strangely logical thought.
ARISU
(Looking up at everyone)
What if the killer... isn't someone else?
KUINA
What do you mean?
ARISU
What if the "Witch"... is the one who killed herself to start this game?
A murmur rippled through the survivors. "Crazy! Who would do that!?"
ARISU
(Standing up and pointing at the fire)
To make us kill each other! This is a "Ten of Hearts" game! A game of hearts! Betrayal and paranoia! What better way to destroy trust than forcing us to find a murderer among us... when there is no murderer!
While everyone was confused by Arisu's theory, his eyes caught something... Next to Asahi, Momoka's best friend who was trembling violently... a cell phone lay on the ground. Its screen was cracked, but still working.
Arisu walked straight to Asahi. She flinched.
ARISU
(Voice calm)
What really happened, Asahi?
ASAHI
(Tears streaming down her face)
I... I don't know...
But Arisu didn't look at her. He bent down and picked up the phone... and pressed play on the most recent video that was paused on the screen.
The image on the cracked screen shook violently... showing Momoka’s tear-streaked face.
MOMOKA (ON VIDEO)
(Voice trembling)
...I'm doing this... to expose the truth of this world... I... am the "Witch"... Goodbye...
The video ended with Momoka gripping the knife... and plunging it into her own chest with force!
The truth... was revealed.
Everyone who saw the video was stunned into silence. Asahi collapsed to the ground, sobbing, and confessed everything... that she and Momoka were "Dealers" trying to destroy the game from the inside.
Arisu looked at the fire... then at Momoka’s body.
ARISU
(To everyone)
We found the "Witch"... and we know how to end this game.
There was no more arguing... only sorrow and exhaustion. The survivors helped lift Momoka’s body... carrying her past the ruins caused by the monster battles... and laid her gently onto the bonfire.
The flames roared into the sky...
Seconds later...
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
(Voice clear and bright)
...GAME CLEAR...
CONGRATULATIONS.
The sound was the signal of liberation. Many survivors collapsed to the ground, weeping in relief that came at such a high price.
The longest night at The Beach was finally over...
...
Beneath the Ruins - Dark Corner
But in the shadows... far from the survivors' eyes...
A critically injured blob of black substance... had found its new vessel.
Not a strong human body... not a vengeful fighter...
But a simple rat, scurrying away from the fire and chaos.
The weakened symbiote wrapped itself around the small creature rapidly... merging as one for survival.
And in the absolute darkness... a pair of tiny, pupil-less white eyes... snapped open.
Survival... had begun anew.
Chapter 12: The Six Eyes Gaze Upon Hell
Summary:
From the battlegrounds of the witch hunt to the true abyss... Pentagram City.
Kokushibo is ripped across dimensions once more. Yet, this time, his destination is not the human world, but a metropolis of sinners ruled by demons. Sunless. Lawless. And Muzan-less.
When a lowly Imp attempts to rob Upper Rank One, the result is nothing but a swift and elegant death. This first encounter yields vital intelligence: here lies a hierarchy, a King, and powerful "Overlords" waiting to be challenged.
In a realm where he no longer needs to be "second" to anyone, Kokushibo's six eyes do not seek a way home, but rather perceive an "opportunity" to ascend to the true summit!
Chapter Text
Exterior - The Blood-Red Sky of the Infernal Realm - Continuous
The first sensation was tearing.
Not the tearing of flesh and bone he had known intimately for centuries, but the ripping apart of his very essence. It was the sensation of being crushed and stretched simultaneously in every direction. A million screams echoed in his mind—not the voices of victims, but the reverb of a distorting dimension.
Then, everything stopped...
Kokushibo was spat out of the void. He didn't land gracefully as he had before. instead, he slammed into something hard and cold in mid-air before plummeting heavily to the ground below.
THUD!
He landed on one knee on a surface that was sticky and gritty. The smell... was the next thing to assault his senses violently.
It wasn't the metallic tang of blood from a battlefield. It wasn't the scent of earth and forests he knew. It was the smell of burning sulfur, the stench of rotting corpses left to decay, cheap alcohol, and an aura of despair so tangible it was suffocating.
Kokushibo stood up slowly. His body still remembered the impact of the battle with the Hashira... but here, there was no trace of them. No scent of Sanemi. No presence of Gyomei. Just a repulsive new world.
His six eyes widened in unison to survey the environment.
The sky... was not the pitch-black night he favored, but a deep crimson, like a wound that would never heal. A massive, pentagram-like star floated prominently in the center of the heavens, staring down like the eye of a demon.
Around him were filthy, narrow alleyways. Brick walls were graffiti-bombed with strange symbols and vulgar words in languages he didn't recognize. Garish neon lights flickered from distant signs—illegible, but screaming of decadence and sin. Screams echoed from afar, but no one paid them any mind; they were just background noise in this city.
KOKUSHIBO
(Muttering to himself, voice raspy)
...Where... is this place? ...Which circle of hell is this...
He no longer felt the presence of Him... Muzan... The bond that had existed for hundreds of years was completely severed. He felt... empty. Strangely free, yet utterly alone.
Exterior - Alleyway in Pentagram City - Continuous
A dry, malicious laugh echoed from the shadows at the end of the alley.
??? (O.S.)
Hey, hey, hey... look what we found. Another lost freak just dropped in!
Two figures stepped out of the darkness. They were humanoid but clearly distorted. One had deep red skin, small horns sprouting from its forehead, and a pointed tail swinging behind it. The other was tall and thin like a walking skeleton, with a single eye burning with green fire. They were low-level Imps, the scum of Hell's hierarchy.
They looked Kokushibo up and down—the strange kimono, the long hair tied back, and the face with six eyes.
IMP #1
(Licking his lips)
Nice outfit... and he's got a sword too. Probably fetch a good price.
IMP #2
(Pulling out a rusty knife)
Hand over the valuables... and strip off those clothes, mutant. We might let you live... mostly intact.
Kokushibo’s six eyes narrowed slightly. He looked at the creatures with a mix of curiosity and disgust.
KOKUSHIBO
...Demons?
Their aura was similar to the demons he knew... but diluted and pathetically weak. There was no strength, no intimidation. Just repulsive vermin.
IMP #1
(Laughing)
Demons? Get it right, pal. We're Imps! Locals! And you... are fresh meat!
The second Imp didn't wait for conversation. He lunged at Kokushibo, aiming to stab him in the gut.
It was a fast movement... by the standards of a lowly creature.
But for Upper Rank One... it was slow. Slow as if the world had stopped turning.
Kokushibo didn't move an inch. He didn't even draw his sword.
...Fwip...
As the Imp ran past where Kokushibo stood...
...Schlick...
Its body split perfectly into two vertical halves. Thick black blood sprayed across the alley walls before the two pieces fell to the ground with a wet splat.
The first Imp watched, eyes wide with shock. He hadn't seen it... he hadn't seen anything... His friend just... ran past and became two pieces.
He slowly looked up at Kokushibo in utter terror. The six eyes of the mysterious man stared back coldly... void of any emotion.
Kokushibo slowly raised his right hand... At the tip of his index finger... a nail had grown slightly longer and sharper... and it was stained with the Imp's black blood.
He had simply... used his finger to slice through the creature as it passed.
IMP #1
(Trembling, stuttering)
W-what... what the fuck are you...
Kokushibo flicked the blood off his fingertip. He took a slow step forward, each step radiating an invisible pressure that made the poor Imp feel like he was being crushed.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice chillingly calm)
Who I am is irrelevant...
He leaned in close... his six eyes staring deep into the terrified soul.
KOKUSHIBO
...But where is this place? ...Tell me... and your death will be swift.
Upper Rank One had arrived... and a new hunt in the land of sinners... had begun in the quietest, filthiest alley of Hell.
The cold emanating from Kokushibo’s six eyes was more terrifying than any death the unfortunate Imp could imagine. It felt like his soul was being frozen and crushed simultaneously.
IMP #1
(Shaking violently, speaking rapidly)
H-Here... This is Hell! Pentagram City! The Pride Ring! I-I swear!
Kokushibo tilted his head slightly. The word "Hell" didn't surprise him as much as it should have. It was a logical explanation for such a depraved environment.
KOKUSHIBO
Who... is the strongest in this land?
IMP #1
(Swallowing hard)
L-Lucifer! The King of Hell! But he never shows his face! The ones who really run the city are the Overlords! They're the most powerful demons! They control territory! Make deals! Own millions of souls! Vox! Valentino! Velvette! Alas...
The Imp stopped abruptly when he saw Kokushibo’s middle pair of eyes narrow. He was interested in the word "Overlord."
KOKUSHIBO
Overlords...
It was a word that echoed what he once was... and what he had always desired. A "Ruler." One who stood above others through sheer power.
IMP #1
(Nodding frantically)
Yeah! Yeah! They're the top dogs! If you don't wanna die, don't mess with them! But... but even if you don't mess with them... we all die anyway...
KOKUSHIBO
...What do you mean?
IMP #1
(Looking up at the blood-red sky in terror)
The Extermination... Every year... The Angels come down from Heaven... to slaughter us! Population control! No one can fight them! We just run... hide... and pray!
This last piece of information made Kokushibo pause.
Angels... from Heaven... descending to hunt demons?
It was strangely similar to the Demon Slayers he had just left, but on a completely different scale. Here... it seemed the "demons" were the ones being hopelessly hunted.
He had the information he needed. This new world had a clear hierarchy of power... a hidden King... Warlords ruling territories... and Hunters above it all.
KOKUSHIBO
...I understand.
IMP #1
(Hopeful)
S-So... you'll let me go?..
Kokushibo looked at him with empty eyes.
KOKUSHIBO
I said... I would make your death swift.
...Schwing...
No one saw him draw the blade. There was only a faint flash of purple light cutting through the air... before the Imp's head slid off its shoulders and fell to the ground. Its body dissolved into black dust instantly, leaving only a stronger smell of sulfur.
Kokushibo watched the dust fade... "The body does not remain... interesting."
He sheathed his sword slowly... and turned his back on the alley of death.
Exterior - Skyscraper Rooftop in Pentagram City - Night
In the blink of an eye... Kokushibo’s figure appeared atop one of the twisted skyscrapers of the city. He stood still on the edge, letting the hot wind, carrying screams and chaos, blow past him.
From this vantage point... he could see all of Pentagram City.
It was a metropolis of madness stretching to the horizon. Neon lights pulsed like the veins of a giant monster. Strange vehicles flew through the air. Explosions erupted sporadically in the distance. Everything moved... everything was filled with conflict and violence.
This was no longer a world where he had to hide in the shadows.
Here... being a demon was the norm.
Kokushibo closed his eyes... not to rest, but to "sense."
He felt waves of energy differing across the city... some violent and frantic like a storm... some cold and cunning like ice... and some powerfully oppressive...
The Overlords...
He clenched his fist tight... then slowly relaxed it.
For over four hundred years... he had one goal: to surpass Yoriichi... and to serve Master Muzan. But that goal had bound him to the position of "Number Two" forever.
But here...
There was no Yoriichi...
There was no Muzan...
There was no sun to flee from...
There was only a vast land filled with the strong to challenge... countless thrones to topple... and the opportunity to climb to the absolute peak with his own power alone.
For the first time in centuries... a faint smile... cold and filled with pure ambition... appeared on Kokushibo’s face.
His six eyes opened... staring down at the City of Sin below like a hawk that had found the richest hunting ground.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice deep, echoing in the wind)
...Interesting...
The journey to become truly "Number One"... bad begun.
Chapter 13: A Power That Isn't Demonic
Summary:
At the I.M.P. office, now reeking of blood and despair, Blitzo and his critically injured team are forced to surrender to their grim reality. With no other choice, they turn to the one person they dreaded relying on the most... Stolas, the Prince of Hell.
As the healing begins, a shocking truth comes to light. The wounds inflicted on Millie and Loona were not caused by demonic magic, but by "Pure Killing Intent"—a force entirely unknown to the denizens of Hell.
While questions linger, breaking news ignites a fresh wave of terror. Even the powerful Overlord Vox is forced to flee for his life following an invasion by a mysterious intruder possessing the "Six Eyes."
With god-tier adversaries arriving in numbers and an objective that could shake the very foundations of the Underworld, what will the I.M.P. team do? They are about to realize they are standing at the epicenter of the most violent storm in Hell's history!
Chapter Text
Interior - I.M.P. Office, Hell - Day (Hell Time)
The crimson portal snapped shut silently, severing the connection to the Human World’s morning sun completely. It left behind only the dim red glow of the neon signs and flickering bulbs of the cluttered, chaotic office.
The silence that followed was heavier than the one in the abandoned industrial district. It was a silence filled with labored, raspy breathing, the sticky sound of drying blood, and faint whimpers of pain.
Blitzø and Moxxie practically threw the unconscious bodies of Millie and Loona onto the office's crustiest, most worn-out couch. They looked far worse under the office lights than they had in the dark. Millie’s outfit was shredded, revealing deep burns and nasty bruises all over her body. Loona still had bits of concrete and rebar embedded in her skin; her grey fur was matted with blood and dust.
Moxxie collapsed to his knees beside the couch. His hands were shaking uncontrollably. He tried to administer first aid to Millie, but he could only hover his fingertips over her wounds, terrified that touching her would make her shatter.
MOXXIE
(Voice trembling)
Millie! Sweetie! Can you hear me? Say something... please...
His eyes filled with tears. He turned to Blitzø with a look of utter desperation.
MOXXIE
Sir! We have to do something! She... she won't stop bleeding! And Loona is...
Blitzø didn't answer immediately. He stood still, staring at his "family" lying broken before him. A cold mix of guilt and rage swirled in his chest. He walked over to an old filing cabinet and kicked it hard enough to dent the metal.
BLITZØ
(Growling)
Fuck!
He turned back, taking a deep breath to suppress his emotions. He knew standard first aid kits or human painkillers wouldn't touch wounds like these. These were injuries from a power they didn't understand.
BLITZØ
(Voice harsher than usual)
Our shitty meds won't work, Mox. These aren't normal cuts. That fucker... his power... it destroys from the inside out.
He walked to his desk and picked up the skull-shaped phone. His finger hovered over the speed dial for only a second of hesitation... he was about to do the thing he hated most... asking for help.
MOXXIE
(Confused)
Who are you calling, sir?
One ring. The other end picked up immediately.
STOLAS (V.O.)
(Voice drowsy, slurring, but happy)
Blitzy! Darling! Thinking of me already? I didn't expect to hear your sweet voice until tonight...
BLITZØ
(Cutting him off sharply, zero patience)
Stolas! Shut the fuck up and listen! Get your feathery ass to the office. NOW!
Silence on the line for a heartbeat. Blitzø’s complete shift in tone told the Prince of Hell something was seriously wrong.
STOLAS (V.O.)
(Voice instantly serious)
Blitzø... what happened? Are you hurt?
BLITZØ
(Through gritted teeth)
Not me! My team! They're dying, Stolas! Get here now if you ever want to see your... ugh... your fucking book again!
CLICK!
He slammed the receiver down without waiting for an answer. He knew Stolas would come.
Less than five seconds later, in the middle of the office, a deep red magic circle glowing with star and owl sigils appeared on the floor. Ancient runes burned like hot coals before the tall, elegant figure of Stolas stepped out from the center. He was still in a luxurious silk robe, but the playfulness was gone from his eyes.
The moment he saw the state of Millie and Loona, and Blitzø’s terrifyingly grim expression... the smile vanished from his beak.
STOLAS
(Voice soft)
Oh... Blitzy... This is... Who did this?
Blitzø didn't answer but stepped aside to let Stolas examine them. The Demon Prince knelt beside the couch, heedless of the blood and grime. His long, slender fingers traced the air above Millie’s body. A faint red glow emanated from his fingertips.
His four eyes glowed crimson as he sensed the foreign energy still eating away at her from the inside... It was pure, violent energy... energy he had never felt in Hell.
STOLAS
(Muttering in shock)
This power... it's not demonic... and it's not angelic... What in Lucifer's name is this...?
The deep red light from Stolas’s hands illuminated the room. Blitzø and Moxxie watched in tense silence. The air grew noticeably colder.
Stolas didn't chant words, but a low hum of ancient demonic tongue, sounding like whistling wind, escaped his lips. He slowly pulled his hand away from Millie’s body. In his palm, a glob of violet-black energy twisted and writhed. It was the "core" of the injury... Akaza's residual Battle Spirit.
STOLAS
(Frowning at the energy in his hand)
...I have never encountered anything like this. It is pure killing intent condensed into physical mass... No magic, no curses... just absolute, unadulterated will to destroy.
He squeezed his hand, and the energy dissipated like smoke. He turned to do the same for Loona.
Once the "poison" was drawn out, Stolas began the actual healing. The red light turned to a gentle gold. He placed his hands on them again. The deep gashes began to knit together rapidly. Bones snapped back into place with soft clicks. Burns faded... but the process seemed to drain the Prince. Beads of sweat appeared on his temples.
After a long moment... it was done.
Millie and Loona were still unconscious, but their breathing was steady and normal. The color returned to their pale faces. They just needed rest.
Stolas stepped back, standing up and exhaling wearily.
MOXXIE
(Rushing to hold Millie’s hand, crying tears of relief)
Millie! Oh, thank Satan! Thank you, Prince Stolas! I... I don't know how to repay you!
STOLAS
(Waving his hand dismissively, still thoughtful)
...Keep your thanks. I am more interested in what you encountered... A creature wielding such power... should not exist in this realm.
Blitzø remained silent. He walked over and patted Moxxie’s shoulder awkwardly, then grabbed the TV remote from his cluttered desk.
BLITZØ
(Turning on the TV)
...Give it a rest, Mox. Let's see what other bullshit is happening in this shit-hole city besides our own.
CLICK!
The TV screen flickered to life. The familiar studio of 666 News. Katie Killjoy and Tom Trench were reporting with more excitement than usual.
KATIE KILLJOY (ON TV)
(Grinning sadistically wide)
...And for the most shocking breaking news in a decade here in Pentagram City! Just minutes ago, an unprecedented attack occurred at VoxTek Enterprises right in the heart of the Entertainment District!
The screen cut to aerial footage from a news chopper, showing the top of Vox’s tower completely dark, with thin trails of smoke rising from it.
TOM TRENCH (ON TV)
(Wearing his gas mask)
Uh... that's right, Katie. Our sources confirm a total blackout across the building, and all of Overlord Vox’s communication systems have gone completely offline! Which... has literally never happened before!
Blitzø and Moxxie exchanged looks... An attack on an Overlord? That was gang war level shit.
KATIE KILLJOY (ON TV)
(Giggling)
And the best part? We recovered the final CCTV footage before the system crashed! It’s blurry... but it looks like the intruder was just one guy!
The screen changed to a grainy, static-filled image... the same one Velvette and Valentino had seen...
The image of a man in a kimono... with Six Eyes.
Blitzø, who was about to take a sip of beer, froze mid-motion. His eyes went wide.
Moxxie’s jaw dropped. He looked from the TV to Blitzø’s face in panic. Even though the appearance was different... the "aura" of terror radiating from that image... it felt incredibly similar to the pink-haired demon they had just barely escaped from.
Stolas, adjusting his robe, turned to look at the screen. His four eyes narrowed in deep thought.
KATIE KILLJOY (ON TV)
...Currently, no one knows who this mystery intruder is, where he came from, or what he wants! But one thing's for sure: he just declared war on one of the most powerful Overlords in Hell! What an exciting night! As for Vox’s fate? Who gives a shit! HAHAHA!
Katie’s shrill laughter blared from the speakers, but no one in the I.M.P. office found it funny.
Blitzø slowly set the beer can down on the desk. Clink.
He stared at Kokushibo’s image on the screen... an ancient warrior looking completely out of place in a world of tech and neon... yet carrying a threat more tangible than any demon he knew.
BLITZØ
(Muttering coldly)
...Fuck.
He looked at Moxxie, whose face was pale as a sheet.
BLITZØ
...He didn't come alone.
An oppressive silence filled the room, broken only by the static of the TV as Katie moved on to report some meaningless car crash. Kokushibo’s image was gone, but his shadow lingered in everyone's mind.
Moxxie was the first to break. He jumped up, shaking.
MOXXIE
(Stuttering)
S-Sir! Did you see that?! Six eyes... the sword... He... he's with that pink-striped guy! But... but look what he did to Vox’s tower... He must be a hundred times stronger!
He started pacing the room, hands on his head, fully panicking.
MOXXIE
We're dead! We are so dead! Just one of them almost wiped us out, and now there's another one?! And what if there are dozens of them?! They treat Overlord towers like toys! What chance does a small startup like us have?! We have to move! We have to go hide in the Greed Ring! Or maybe—
BLITZØ
(Snapping)
Shut the fuck up, Moxxie! Stop hyperventilating!
But his words lacked their usual bite. Blitzø’s eyes showed the same panic; he was just hiding it under his usual aggression.
STOLAS
(Voice deep, calm)
Calm down, Moxxie... You are panicking without context.
The Demon Prince stepped into the conversation, his four eyes fixed on the darkening screen with profound contemplation.
STOLAS
From my assessment... that intruder didn't "defeat" Overlord Vox... He forced Vox to "flee." There is a distinct difference. Vox chose to abandon his stronghold to preserve his life and power... which tells us a great deal about this newcomer.
He turned to lock eyes with Blitzø.
STOLAS
It tells us... that this creature is strong enough to make one of the most arrogant Overlords in Hell swallow his pride just to survive... And what is more concerning...
Chapter 14: Upper Rank One vs The TV Demon
Summary:
In the chaos-ridden Pentagram City, Kokushibo has chosen his first "prey" to gauge the power level of this new world... the Media Overlord, Vox.
What should have been an impossible infiltration of a luxury penthouse becomes a mere stroll for the Upper Rank demon, as Hell's finest security systems are severed by a blade faster than lightning.
It is a clash of opposing forces: state-of-the-art technology designed to overload the senses against ancient Moon Breathing capable of slicing through electricity itself! What will the arrogant Vox do when he realizes his "toys" are powerless to stop the reaper standing before him?
Meanwhile, at the I.M.P. office, Stolas uncovers a truth far more terrifying... Their arrival was no accident. It was caused by a violent tear in the dimensions from "the other side." Which means... the true invasion may have only just begun!
Chapter Text
Minutes Earlier. Exterior - Skyscraper Rooftop in Pentagram City.
Kokushibo did not linger on the view below. He was not an artist admiring beauty, twisted as it may be. He was a predator evaluating his territory.
His six eyes scanned the city, each pair serving a different function. One pair tracked movement, another pierced through illusions, and the middle pair... the ones engraved with Upper Rank One... were measuring Power.
He sensed a repulsive energy signature... radiating like invisible radio waves. It was cold, detached, and filled with an arrogance born of control, not combat. It was the power of "Information" and "Influence" rather than raw physical strength.
It was completely alien to him... and that is what drew his interest.
To prove true strength... one must conquer the unfamiliar.
Having decided... Kokushibo’s figure faded from the rooftop edge like a drawing being erased.
Exterior - Streets of Pentagram City - Continuous
He didn't fall... he moved.
To the demons and sinners brawling, indulging, or fleeing on the streets below... Kokushibo’s movement was just a gust of wind... or a shadow flickering in the corner of their eye.
He moved past alleys filled with imp gang wars, past the sickly pink glow of Valentino’s strip clubs, past thousands of ad screens flashing products and shows... everything was chaotic disorder.
But Kokushibo’s target was clear...
A pitch-black skyscraper towering in the center of the Entertainment District. It looked sleek and dangerously clean compared to the twisted architecture surrounding it. At its peak, a massive blue neon "V" glowed brightly.
VOXTEK ENTERPRISES
The headquarters of Vox, the Overlord of Technology and Media.
Interior - Vox’s Penthouse - Continuous
Vox’s office was a temple of circuitry and data.
Almost every wall was a high-definition screen, streaming feeds from hundreds of CCTVs, TV ratings statistics, and Hell’s social media feeds in a constant flow.
The owner... Vox... stood in the center of the room. Tall and slender in a modern suit, his head was an old-school flat-screen TV displaying a digital, sneering face. He was shouting into a phone.
VOX
(Voice digital, autotuned)
...No! I don't give a fuck if Valentino’s ratings are tanking! Tell him to stop sending me those shitty clips! We have a brand to maintain! Depravity needs class, understand...
Fwip...
A silent sound... directly behind him.
Vox stopped talking abruptly. His digital face changed to a blue question mark (?). He hadn't turned around yet, but dozens of small screens around the room already showed him the intruder.
A man in an ancient kimono... long hair... and six creepy eyes... standing still in the middle of his room like a statue.
VOX
(Slowly hanging up the phone, not turning around)
My security system is worth millions more than your life... It should have shredded anything without an invite back in the lobby... So tell me, how did you get in? Or should I ask first... what the fuck are you?
Kokushibo looked around the room with visible disgust in his eyes. Soulless "art"... just empty lights.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice cold and commanding)
I sensed your power from afar... It spreads across this entire city... yet it lacks any martial spirit...
Vox slowly turned to face him. His TV face buffered with a loading symbol... before snapping into a wider, toothy grin.
VOX
Oh... a fan? Sorry, pal, but the autograph line is insanely long right now. You should go wait like the rest of the garbage.
He raised a hand. Several small energy turrets slid out from the ceiling and walls, all barrels aiming at Kokushibo.
VOX
But since you made the effort to break in... I'll give you one last chance. Introduce yourself... and give me a damn good reason why I shouldn't delete you from existence right now.
Kokushibo’s six eyes locked onto Vox... ignoring the weapons surrounding him completely.
KOKUSHIBO
My name is Kokushibo...
He paused slightly... before slowly placing a hand on the hilt of his katana.
KOKUSHIBO
...And I have come... to prove if the power of an "Overlord"... is real... or just a fleeting illusion... like shadows on your glass screen.
The tension in the air spiked instantly.
Vox’s TV face turned into static for a split second... before returning as a furious grin.
VOX
You... picked the wrong guy... you antique piece of shit.
As the words left his speaker... all energy turrets fired blue beams at Kokushibo from every direction!
ZAP! ZAP! ZAP!
But what Vox saw on his screens wasn't a body being torn apart...
...It was nothingness.
Kokushibo... had vanished.
CLANG! SLASH! CRASH!
The sound of metal being severed rang out simultaneously across the room! Every single energy turret was sliced cleanly in half in a single blink!
Kokushibo appeared again... behind Vox’s desk... his sword still sheathed.
...He had simply walked past them.
Vox stood frozen. His screens showed violent static... This wasn't just a break-in...
This was a declaration of war.
The silence following the perfect destruction was heavier than any explosion. The remains of the cleanly cut turrets sparked and smoked quietly.
Vox’s TV face flickered with intense static. A buzzing sound emitted from his speakers. The confidence he held a moment ago evaporated, replaced by rage mixed with a panic he hadn't felt in a long time.
VOX
(Digital voice glitching)
...Not bad... Not b-b-bad... you museum relic... You think moving a little fast is gonna scare me?
He didn't wait for an answer. He roared!
VOX
You are in my world! In MY house! Every pixel in this room is my weapon!!!
Suddenly! Every giant screen on the walls changed to a spiraling, nauseating red eye symbol, emitting a high-frequency screech designed to shatter a demon's auditory sensors!
SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECH!!!
It was a sensory attack! Bright white strobe lights flashed across the room in a rhythm meant to induce seizures. The light and sound were designed to disorient and paralyze.
But Kokushibo... simply closed his top three pairs of eyes... leaving only the bottom pair open. He stood calm amidst the storm of light and sound, like a rock in a raging river.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice calm, cutting through the noise)
...Annoying...
A second later, Vox changed tactics!
The floor, which looked like normal metal, lit up in a blue grid. Hundreds of high-voltage lightning bolts shot out from the floor and walls like electric vipers! They converged on Kokushibo from all sides, aiming to incinerate him to ash!
VOX
(Laughing maniacally)
Try dodging pure energy! No stupid sword can block a million volts!
When the first bolt was less than an inch from his body... Kokushibo opened all six eyes.
And drew his sword for the first time...
KOKUSHIBO
Moon Breathing, Ninth Form: Waning Moonswaths.
It wasn't an attack... it was the perfect defense.
Kokushibo swung his flesh blade in a circular motion around himself at imperceptible speed, creating a whirlwind of chaotic, crescent moon blades!
CLANG! ZZRT! SLASH!
Every bolt of lightning that rushed in... was "cut" apart by the lunar storm! The electrical energy was minced and scattered aimlessly, crashing into walls and ceilings, scorching them black. But not a single spark touched Kokushibo.
Vox was speechless. His TV face froze in a digital jaw-drop.
...Impossible... He... he cut the lightning?
VOX
(Shouting)
You... You are a monster!!!
Kokushibo, standing in the center of the dissipating blade storm... looked at Vox with cold eyes.
KOKUSHIBO
...As are you... but you are a cowardly demon... hiding behind fragile mechanisms.
The lunar storm vanished... and Kokushibo surged forward!
He tore through the air, still crackling with static... fast enough to be a purple blur!
VOX
(Panicking)
Back off! Stay the fuck away!
Vox raised his arms in instinctive defense. Several thick data cables shot out from his back, whipping at Kokushibo like steel lashes.
But it was too late...
SLASH!
Kokushibo’s blade swung just once...
Every cable that lunged at him... was severed in mid-air... falling to the floor and twitching like dying worms.
Kokushibo stood directly in front of Vox... less than an arm's length away...
His grotesque flesh sword was raised high... the multiple yellow eyes on the blade snapped open in unison... staring hungrily at Vox’s TV screen.
Silence fell again. Only the static fuzz from Vox’s head, now displaying a Blue Screen of Death, could be heard.
KOKUSHIBO
(Voice chilling)
Your toys are broken...
He raised the blade higher... preparing to strike down.
KOKUSHIBO
...Now... face a warrior.
Present Time. Interior - I.M.P. Office.
Stolas paused, his red eyes narrowing.
STOLAS
...is how they arrived here.
BLITZØ
(Frowning)
What do you mean? They probably used a portal like ours, right?
STOLAS
(Shaking his head slowly)
No... As the keeper of the Grimoire... I can sense disturbances in space-time. The rift they used... it wasn't opened by our magic. No signature of the Ars Goetia. No power of Lucifer... It was much cruder, more violent.
He walked to the window, looking out at the blood-red sky of Pentagram City.
STOLAS
It felt as if... some event of immense power simply "tore" the canvas of dimensions apart... from the other side.
The words sent a chill down everyone's spine.
MOXXIE
(Voice faint)
From... the other side?
STOLAS
(Nodding)
Correct... It means... there is something in their world... that possesses the power to open gates to Hell at will... without us knowing or being able to prevent it.
The true meaning of his words sank in. It changed the nature of the problem entirely.
This wasn't just two intruders accidentally falling into Hell.
This was an invasion that could happen at any moment.
Blitzø looked past Stolas to the sleeping forms of Millie and Loona on the couch. The problem that seemed cosmic a moment ago... just became incredibly personal.
The threat wasn't hypothetical anymore... it had almost taken his family once already.
The rage and panic on his face slowly faded... replaced by a look of heavy, steely resolve no one had ever seen on him before.
He turned to ask Stolas... not as an employee to a client... but as one carrying a heavy burden asking the most important question.
BLITZØ
(Voice flat)
...So how do we stop it?
Chapter 15: An Answer More Terrifying Than the Question
Summary:
The "Ten of Hearts" game has concluded, but the war has only just begun. Refusing to yield to the enigma, Arisu discovers a crucial clue on a deceased dealer's phone: a mysterious Wi-Fi signal emitting from an abandoned subway station.
Their journey into the heart of darkness to locate the Game Master's "secret base" leads the four of them to a reinforced vault hidden in the depths. But upon breaching the door, what awaits them is not the answers they expected, but a pristine, bone-chilling "graveyard."
Every single dealer is dead—executed by lasers through the skull, identical to the defeated players. The truth hits them with brutal force: "They were just another set of pawns on the board."
If the dealers weren't the ones in control... then who is? Or rather, what is truly behind this madness? The answer may lie within the silence of the empty control room... and in the unseen gaze watching them from the shadows.
Chapter Text
The Borderlands. Interior - A Safe House in Shibuya - Several Days Later, Day.
Weak sunlight filtered through dust-covered windows, illuminating a room that looked less like a home and more like a bunker. Arisu, Usagi, Chishiya, and Kuina—the four survivors of the hellish night at The Beach—were still sticking together.
Even though the "Ten of Hearts" game was over, its aftermath was deeply embedded in everyone’s psyche. The images of the two interdimensional monsters were as vivid as if they had happened yesterday.
Arisu sat huddled in the corner. He hadn't slept for nights. In his hands was a map of Tokyo scavenged from a convenience store. It was covered in red circles he had drawn... locations of games they had cleared, the location of The Beach, and potential locations of the "Dealers."
USAGI
(Offering Arisu a bottle of water)
You should rest, Arisu. You've been staring at that map for two days.
ARISU
(Taking the bottle but not drinking, voice raspy)
I can't rest... Usagi... What happened at The Beach... it wasn't just a game anymore.
He traced a finger over the map.
ARISU
The black monster... the six-eyed monster... They weren't part of the game. They were "variables" that interfered. I'm sure of it... But the question is... how did they get in?
CHISHIYA
(Sitting against the opposite wall, sorting cards in his hand)
Dimensional rifts... You're thinking about that, aren't you?
Arisu nodded seriously.
ARISU
It's the only thing that doesn't make sense. Every game we've played had clear rules, explainable technology... lasers, trackers, collars... But tearing apart empty space... that's a whole different level of tech.
KUINA
So what do you think it is? The Game Master hiding an ace up their sleeve?
ARISU
(Shaking his head)
I don't think so... Look at how the six-eyed one was "sucked" back. It felt more like... the system trying to purge an error. Like those rifts were bugs in this crazy world.
Arisu's thought silenced the room. "Bugs in the world"... a concept both terrifying and fascinating.
ARISU
When we found the Dealer's room in the Five of Spades game... we only saw their break room. We never saw the true "Command Center"... where they contact the higher-ups... where the answers might be.
He picked up a blue pen and circled an area in the heart of Shibuya... the Subway Station.
ARISU
Asahi's phone... I checked the last signal it connected to before it broke... It didn't connect to a tower above ground. It was a high-power Wi-Fi signal coming from underground... deep in the abandoned subway tunnels.
CHISHIYA
(Raising an eyebrow, stops sorting cards)
...Interesting.
USAGI
You're saying... the Dealers' base might be down there?
ARISU
It's just a theory... but it's the only one we have right now... If we want to know what's behind this game... and if those rifts are part of it... we have to go there.
He looked up, meeting everyone's eyes. His gaze was filled with dangerous determination.
ARISU
We have to go back... to the beginning of the game... to find its end.
Exterior - Entrance to Shibuya Subway Station - Day
The motionless escalators descended into the darkness below, like the throat of a beast waiting for prey. Sunlight only reached the first few steps; the rest was submerged in cold shadow.
Arisu, Usagi, Chishiya, and Kuina stood at the entrance. Each had a small backpack and a headlamp. They were prepared as if exploring an ancient tomb.
KUINA
(Sighing)
Never thought I'd miss sunlight... and we've only taken a few steps down.
CHISHIYA
Underground is nice... no lasers shooting from skyscrapers down here.
It was a joke, but no one laughed.
ARISU
(Checking a modified device connected to Asahi's phone)
Signal is weak... but the direction is clear. We have to go down.
Usagi nodded to him before stepping onto the escalator first, steady and sure. She was the vanguard with the highest survival skills. Kuina followed as the guard, while Arisu and Chishiya took the rear.
Interior - Subway Tunnel - Continuous
Silence... was the most terrifying part.
Flashlight beams swept back and forth, revealing the remnants of abandoned civilization. Moldy advertisements, smashed vending machines, and train tracks submerged in pitch-black stagnant water.
The only sounds were their four sets of footsteps and the rhythmic dripping of water from the ceiling... drip... drip... drip...
They walked deeper, passing trains that sat dead in the tunnels. Sometimes Usagi had to climb over obstacles to find a path. Kuina remained in a fighting stance, hands never leaving her baton.
ARISU
(Looking at the device)
Signal is getting stronger... We're on the right track.
Suddenly, Chishiya, walking at the back, stopped.
CHISHIYA
Wait.
Everyone stopped and turned. He shone his flashlight at the tunnel wall.
CHISHIYA
Look at that.
On the dust and cobweb-covered wall, several thick black cables were neatly installed... They looked too new and clean for this place. The cables ran deep into the darkness of the tunnel.
ARISU
(Eyes lighting up)
Found it...
This was the first concrete proof. Traces of "people" living and working here. They weren't just hiding... they had electricity.
The four changed course... and began to follow the cable line.
The deeper they went, the colder the air became. And they started to hear something...
Not water dripping... but a low hum vibrating through the air... the sound of massive machinery at work.
They reached a dead end... a thick concrete wall that seemed to offer no way forward. All the cables disappeared into it.
KUINA
Is this it?
But Arisu noticed something on the floor... scratch marks on the concrete... marks made by a heavy object opening and closing repeatedly.
He walked up to the wall and knocked on it gently.
Knock... knock...
The sound that returned was hollow and metallic... not solid concrete.
Usagi stepped up to help. She pushed against a section of the wall that seemed to have the faintest seam.
Rumble...
The fake concrete panel... slowly slid sideways. Revealing what was behind it...
A massive steel blast door... like a bank vault. A digital keypad and fingerprint scanner were mounted on it. And above the door... a small CCTV lens stared at them silently.
The hum of machinery was louder now from behind that door.
They... had found the entrance to the "Game Master's" lair.
The steel door loomed before them, a symbol of the power and control they had been chasing.
KUINA
So how do we get in? Even if I hit this with my baton all day, it won't budge.
Arisu tried the digital keypad, but it was useless. It was designed to prevent any hacking.
While everyone was stumped, Chishiya spoke flatly, eyes fixed on the tunnel ceiling.
CHISHIYA
Why bother with the lock... when we can cut the power feeding it?
Everyone followed his gaze... The thick black cables they had followed didn't go directly into the wall but were threaded through a large metal conduit running parallel to the ceiling before diving into the wall above the door.
USAGI
(Understanding instantly)
Cut the power!
The operation began immediately. Usagi used her climbing skills to scale the wall and grab onto the conduit effortlessly. She used all her strength to pry open the nearest junction box cover.
CLANK!
Inside was a mess of wires. Arisu shouted up the colors and sequence of wires he believed were the mains feeding the security system.
Usagi used her pocket knife to slash through the wire quickly!
SNAP!
A spark flashed. The digital panel on the blast door flickered rapidly before dying out completely... followed by a soft click and the sound of mechanical locks disengaging with a loud CLUNK!
The door popped open slightly...
The four looked at each other, then put their weight against the heavy steel door to push it open slowly.
CREEEEAAAK...
Soft white light and freezing air poured out from inside. It was the strangest sight imaginable.
Interior - Underground Command Center - Continuous
What lay before them wasn't a terrifying military base, but a control room so clean and modern it looked like it belonged in a sci-fi movie. Dozens of computer monitors lit up the walls, showing CCTV feeds from everywhere... from the games they had played... and games they had never seen... The hum of servers filled the room.
But what froze the four of them like statues...
Were the bodies.
Dozens of people lay dead all over the room. Some slumped over keyboards, some leaning back in chairs, some collapsed on the floor next to desks... All wearing the same black uniform... the uniform of the "Dealers."
And most horrifying of all...
On everyone's head... was a charred laser hole... exactly like the players who lost a game.
Arisu walked slowly toward one body... He recognized the man’s face... he was one of the Dealers at The Beach...
He turned to look at a main screen. It displayed the summary of the "Ten of Hearts" game that had just ended. The list of participants was divided into two sides: "Players" and "Dealers"... and next to every Dealer's name... including Asahi and Momoka... a red text blinked: ELIMINATED.
In that second... the brutal truth slammed into Arisu’s brain.
ARISU
(Voice shaking)
No way...
USAGI
(Covering her mouth in shock)
This... what does this mean?
Arisu turned to his friends... his eyes filled with emptiness and the deepest despair.
ARISU
They... aren't the Game Masters...
ARISU
They were "Players"... just like us...
They hadn't found the enemy's lair... they had found the graveyard of fellow victims.
They hadn't found the answer... but a question far bigger and more terrifying than before.
ARISU (INTERNAL MONOLOGUE)
If these people... aren't the ones controlling the game...
Then who... or "what"... exactly... is watching us?
Chapter 16: Invasion from the Outside
Summary:
The secret discovered in the underground tunnels changes everything. Arisu discovers that all the dealers are dead, and the computer data reveals a terrifying truth: the "Dimensional Rift" isn't a system-generated anomaly... It is an "intrusion" from the outside that is actively devouring the laws of this world!
But before they can even catch their breath, the "Final Phase" begins! Airships bearing giant face cards fill the sky, signaling the merciless hunt of the King of Spades.
Amidst a hail of bullets and explosions, Arisu’s group is scattered. Chishiya and Kuina decide to take a massive gamble, heading out to challenge the "Queen's" game in a bid to end this madness once and for all.
Meanwhile, cornered in a dead-end alley, Arisu and Usagi face a familiar nightmare... The Dimensional Rift opens once again! But this time, it isn't "spitting" anything out—it is threatening to "swallow" them whole, dragging them into a new world even more dangerous than the last!
Chapter Text
Interior - Underground Command Center - Continuous
The realization that the "Game Masters" they sought were just another group of victims filled the control room with despair. But for Arisu, that despair was quickly replaced by a hunger for answers more intense than ever.
He wasn't going to let this opportunity slip away.
ARISU
(Rushing to the remaining active console)
We don't have much time! Before the system resets or destroys itself, we need to grab as much data as possible!
Usagi and Kuina stood guard at the door, while Chishiya wandered the room, keenly interested in the technology before him.
Arisu’s fingers flew across the keyboard. He opened unlocked files—game maps, player lists, survival rates... most of the data was things they had already experienced. But then he found a file that caught his eye.
LOG_ENERGY_OUTPUT_SHIBUYA_SECTOR
The screen displayed a graph of energy consumption in the Shibuya sector over the past week. Most of it was a flat line with regular spikes.
ARISU
(Muttering)
These spikes... are when games start... Energy for lasers, for creating boundaries... everything is calculated... systematic...
But then his eyes widened as he saw something violently wrong.
On the graph, there were two massive energy spikes that nearly broke the scale... dozens of times higher than the energy used in any game. And most importantly... next to the spikes, red text blinked with a code:
ANOMALY DETECTED: UNCLASSIFIED EXTERNAL ENERGY SURGE
Arisu quickly checked the timestamps of these errors... and his heart nearly stopped.
It was the exact moment Venom appeared... and the exact moment Kokushibo was pulled in... to the second.
ARISU
(Calling out, voice shaking)
Everyone... look at this!
He explained his findings.
ARISU
The dimensional rifts... they aren't part of the game... They're an invasion from the outside! The Game Master's system didn't create them... it just logged them as "Errors"!
KUINA
Does that mean... even the people running this crazy show... don't control everything?
CHISHIYA
(Looking at the screen with a gleam in his eye)
Turns out... we're not just in a cage... but a cage that's starting to leak... Fun.
Before they could analyze further, a soft red alarm began to beep on the screen, accompanied by the message: SYSTEM PURGE IN 60 SECONDS.
USAGI
Arisu! We have to go!
The four sprinted out of the control room, leaving countless undiscovered secrets behind. They ran back through the dark tunnels... heading toward the surface.
Exterior - Shibuya Crossing - Continuous
Arisu and the others burst out of the subway entrance. The afternoon sun was blinding, forcing them to squint. They stood panting in the middle of the empty, silent crossing.
But then... a massive shadow fell over them...
Usagi was the first to look up... and she froze.
Arisu and the others followed her gaze...
The sky above the ruins of Shibuya... was no longer empty.
Dozens of giant Blimps hung motionless in the sky... Beneath each blimp, a massive banner fluttered in the wind... and on those banners... were Face Cards.
The King of Spades... The Queen of Hearts... The Jack of Diamonds...
The faces of Kings, Queens, and Jacks stared down at the empty city... like gods looking down upon a coliseum of mortals.
The First Stage... was over.
And now... the Next Stage, where the prize was the title of "King" of the Borderlands... had begun.
The stunned silence caused by the sight of the blimps was shattered by an announcement echoing simultaneously across the entire city...
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
(Voice loud, authoritative, and emotionless)
Players... Congratulations on advancing to the Next Stage.
The final games will begin now.
Before anyone could process the meaning of those words...
BOOOOOOM!!!
A car parked near the crossing exploded violently! The shockwave knocked Arisu and everyone else to the ground.
RAT-TAT-TAT-TAT!
The deafening sound of automatic rifle fire erupted from a nearby rooftop! Bullets tore up the concrete around them in a precise and ruthless line!
KUINA
(Shouting)
Shit! Find cover!
CHISHIYA
(Rolling behind a wrecked bus)
Looks like... the King of Spades is starting his game before anyone else!
True chaos had begun again. The four of them, having just survived death, were forced to run for their lives once more without a moment to breathe.
They scrambled for cover amidst the relentless hail of bullets. The man in the spade mask... the King of Spades... was hunting every player caught in the open without mercy.
ARISU
(Shouting)
Everyone! Split up and head for that building! We need to get out of the open!
But as they were about to cross the street... another explosion landed right in the middle of their group!
BOOM!!!
The blast scattered them in different directions. Arisu and Usagi were pushed into a narrow alleyway on one side, while Chishiya and Kuina were forced to flee in the other direction.
ARISU
Chishiya! Kuina!
But his call was drowned out by continuous gunfire. They were separated.
Arisu and Usagi ran deeper into the narrow alley filled with trash and dumpsters. They hid behind a large bin, gasping for air. The gunfire continued, but it seemed slightly further away.
USAGI
(Panting, looking at the alley entrance)
We have to find a way to regroup with them...
ARISU
(Nodding)
Yeah... but we have to wait for it to quiet down...
But then... the air right in front of them began to shimmer...
It was a phenomenon they knew all too well...
VWOOOOOOOM...
A violet-black dimensional rift, the size of a person... tore open the air rapidly and violently... less than three meters away from them!
ARISU
(Eyes wide with shock)
No... No way! Not again!
This time it was different... the rift didn't spit anything out... it was sucking everything in!
A massive gravitational pull hit instantly! Trash and dust around them flew straight into the tear. Arisu and Usagi tried to grab onto the dumpster, but the pull was too strong to resist!
USAGI
(Screaming)
ARISU!
Her feet left the ground! Her body was sucked toward the rift rapidly!
Arisu grabbed her hand just in time, but the force was so immense that his own body was lifted off the ground as well!
ARISU
(Shouting with all his might, trying to hold onto Usagi)
USAGI!!!
The last thing they saw... was the terrified face of the other... before both of them were swallowed whole into the center of the swirling dimensional rift...
FWOOP!
The rift snapped shut... vanishing without a trace...
Leaving only an empty, silent alleyway...
Moments later... the tall figure in the Spade mask... the King of Spades... slowly walked to the mouth of the alley. He swept his rifle back and forth... but found no living creature.
He paused for a moment... before turning and walking away... to hunt the next prey... unaware that the two "rabbits" he had almost caught...
Had disappeared from this "Game" entirely.
The second explosion pushed Chishiya and Kuina in the opposite direction of Arisu and Usagi. Smoke and dust obscured everything.
KUINA
(Shouting)
Arisu! Usagi!
But the only answer she got was another volley of bullets tearing through the air!
BANG! BANG!
CHISHIYA
(Grabbing Kuina’s arm)
This way! Don't stop running!
Chishiya didn't run with panic, but with purpose. He scanned the environment rapidly, assessing enemy firing angles and finding the safest route in a split second.
CHISHIYA
(Pointing to a department store)
He's on that rooftop! Firing down in a straight line! We have to zig-zag into the building!
Kuina nodded, understanding. She used her superior physical ability to take point, dodging wrecked cars and obstacles fluidly, while Chishiya observed and called directions from behind.
CHISHIYA
He's changing position! We have 5 seconds! Cross now!
KUINA
Got it!
The two worked together incredibly well... not out of trust, but out of mutual acknowledgment of ability for a shared goal... Survival.
They burst through the shattered glass doors of the department store successfully. The gunfire from outside ceased once they were out of sight.
They stopped to catch their breath behind an overturned information counter.
KUINA
(Panting)
Damn it... What the hell is that guy... just shooting everyone indiscriminately...
CHISHIYA
(Looking out the door, expression calm)
The King of Spades... His game is "Survival"... The arena is "The Entire City"... and every player is a target.
KUINA
(Frowning)
What about Arisu and Usagi? Where did they go...
Chishiya turned to look at her... his eyes devoid of worry.
CHISHIYA
The moment that bomb dropped... we were separated... In a city this big, with a killer roaming around... looking for them is suicide.
KUINA
(Voice hard)
Are you saying we should abandon them!?
CHISHIYA
(Walking deeper into the store)
I'm not saying abandon them... I'm saying running around aimlessly is useless... If you want to see them again... there is only one way...
He stopped in front of an escalator leading up... and looked through a large shattered window... at the blimps floating in the sky.
CHISHIYA
...Is to end this whole game.
He looked at a blimp in the distance... one bearing the symbol of the Queen of Hearts.
CHISHIYA
Running from the King of Spades forever just means death... But if we clear the games of the other "Face Cards"... maybe something will change...
He looked back at Kuina, his eyes glinting with a challenge.
CHISHIYA
Are you going to keep running for your life... or do you want to make a big bet with me, Kuina? How about we go say hello to a "Queen"?
Kuina looked at Chishiya... a man she could never read... but in this hopeless situation... his reckless plan might be the only survival route they had.
She sighed... before smiling wearily.
KUINA
God... I hate when you act smarter than everyone else... Fine... let's go! Let's go see what a real "Game Master" looks like!
Their path was set... not to find their lost friends... but to head into the eye of the storm... to face the deadliest game masters...
Unaware that the friends they worried about... were no longer in this "Game" at all.
Chapter 17: Clues and Disappearance
Summary:
On Earth... Chishiya and Kuina's mission to halt the "Game" comes to an abrupt end. A merciless dimensional rift swallows them whole, vanishing them from the Borderlands and leaving the fate of their world hanging by a thread.
Cut back to Hell... Millie wakes up with a crucial clue! Seared into her memory from the moment of her near-death experience is a "character" she saw within the eyes of the beast that almost killed her.
When Stolas deciphers it, a truth far more terrifying than raw destructive power is revealed... It wasn't a name, but a "Rank." The beast they faced was merely "Number 3." This implies the existence of an organization, an entire army, and a "Leader" orchestrating this invasion.
As Loona awakens to this harsh reality, Team I.M.P. must prepare for a war where their chances of victory are slim. But they have no choice... because this isn't just business anymore—it’s about family!
Chapter Text
Interior - Abandoned Department Store - Continuous
Chishiya unrolled the city map he grabbed from a bookstore onto a dust-covered counter. Faint moonlight filtering through the shattered glass ceiling provided just enough illumination.
CHISHIYA
(Tracing a line on the map with his finger)
The Queen of Hearts' blimp is floating above the Supreme Court... If we take the normal route on the streets... the King of Spades will pick us off before we get halfway there.
KUINA
(Leaning against a pillar, arms crossed)
So what's the plan, Mr. Strategist?
CHISHIYA
(Pointing to various buildings on the map)
We won't use the streets... We'll travel "through" the city. Most buildings in Shibuya have underground connections or skybridges... For the ones that don't... we'll just "make" our own path.
Kuina smirked... She understood exactly what he meant by "make." It meant smashing walls, prying doors, and doing whatever it took to move forward without touching the ground.
A dangerous and silent journey began.
They moved through the ruins of the city like ghosts... Kuina used her strength and baton to smash through fragile drywall to create new passages... Chishiya used his sharp wit to pick maintenance door locks... They moved from one building... to the next... slowly but steadily.
Sometimes they heard machine gun fire echoing from the distance... screams... and explosions... reminders that the Grim Reaper in the Spade mask was still patrolling below.
Hours passed...
They reached the top floor of an office building. Large windows offered a clear view of the city.
The Queen of Hearts' blimp was within reach... just a few blocks away.
KUINA
(Looking at the target)
Just a little more... We can make it...
CHISHIYA
(Looking down below)
The King of Spades is moving east... Now is the best chance to cross to the final building.
They were about to move...
But then... the air in the center of the office... began to tremble.
VWOOOOOOOM...
That familiar, high-pitched screech rang out again!
KUINA
(Spinning around, instantly in a fighting stance)
That damn noise again! What is happening?!
CHISHIYA
(Eyes widening)
Impossible...
A violet-black dimensional rift... tore open the empty space right in front of them... It was the same phenomenon they heard from afar when the second monster appeared... and the same thing that sucked that monster back!
A massive gravitational pull erupted from the rift instantly!
Papers and glass shards on the floor were sucked in first!
KUINA
(Using her baton to brace against the floor, fighting the pull)
Dammit! It's sucking us in!
But her resistance was futile... Her body slowly began to slide across the floor!
As for Chishiya... he stood still... making no attempt to resist...
For the first time... the cool composure and confidence on his face vanished completely... replaced by a look of genuine shock...
It was the look of a chess prodigy... who just realized the board he was playing on... was being burned to ash by a force beyond any rules he knew...
KUINA
CHISHIYA!!!
Kuina screamed as her body was lifted off the ground and sucked into the rift first...
Chishiya didn't even have time to react... his body was pulled in right after her...
FWOOP!
The rift snapped shut... and vanished without a trace...
Leaving only an empty, silent office... Only the city map on the table... slowly fluttered to the floor...
Outside the window... the Queen of Hearts' blimp still floated majestically... unaware that the two challengers with the highest chance of dethroning her...
Had disappeared from the "Borderlands" completely.
Another Dimension. Interior - I.M.P. Office.
Blitzø’s question hung in the heavy air. It was a question with no easy answer. Stolas sighed deeply, his eyes reflecting an exhaustion that came not just from healing magic, but from the weight of the knowledge he was about to impart.
STOLAS
(Turning back from the window)
The most honest answer is... Blitzy... I don't know.
Moxxie paled again, but Stolas raised a hand to stop him from speaking.
STOLAS
I don't know... yet. We are facing something unprecedented. They are not demons, not fallen angels, not cursed sinners... They are something else entirely. fighting an unknown enemy is just walking to one's death.
He walked back to the center of the room, looking at Blitzø and Moxxie in turn.
STOLAS
So... the first thing we must do is not fight... but gather intelligence. We need to know what they are, where they come from, what they want, and most importantly... if they have weaknesses.
He pointed to himself lightly.
STOLAS
I will begin researching in my library. Every ancient grimoire recording dimensional rifts or beings from other realms will be scrutinized. I will find everything related to the "Six-Eyed Warrior" seen on the news.
Then he turned to look at Blitzø with serious eyes.
STOLAS
As for you... Blitzø... you are the front line. You survived a direct encounter. That makes you the experts on this threat by default... whether you like it or not.
Moxxie was about to open his mouth to protest in fear, but a raspy groan from the couch interrupted everyone.
???
...Where is... that... son of a bitch?
Everyone turned around instantly!
Millie was slowly propping herself up to sit. She still looked battered, but her yellow eyes burned with unhidden rage.
MOXXIE
(Voice shaking with joy)
Millie! Sweetie! You're awake!
He rushed to support her. Millie coughed slightly before gripping her husband's hand tight.
MILLIE
(Looking around)
Did he get away? That candy-ass bastard... I didn't get to chop his skull nearly enough!
BLITZØ
(Sighing in relief)
Cool your jets, Mills... Just rest for a bit, will ya?
MILLIE
(Shaking her head, trying to stand)
No! I remember... When I went in to hit him... I saw something... Something really weird.
Blitzø walked closer, interested.
BLITZØ
What? What did you see?
Millie closed her eyes, trying to recall that split second of life and death... the image of Akaza’s lightning-fast fist... the fighting stance that was beautiful yet deadly...
MILLIE
(Opening her eyes)
...In his eyes... there was writing...
The words silenced the room.
MOXXIE
Writing? What do you mean?
MILLIE
(Nodding confidently)
Yeah! I'm sure of it! It wasn't just lines or weird shapes. It was clearly written characters. Like... like human language, but I've never seen it before. It was in both of his golden eyes.
This tiny piece of information... was exactly what they needed.
It was the first tangible clue.
Stolas stepped closer, his eyes lighting up with intense curiosity. Fear and worry were replaced by the instinct of a scholar.
STOLAS
Interesting... very interesting... What kind of characters? What shape? Can you draw them for me?
He flicked his wrist. A piece of ancient parchment and a quill pen inked with blood materialized from thin air, floating right in front of Millie.
Everyone in the room... Blitzø, Moxxie, and Stolas... stared at Millie as one, waiting for her to draw the symbol that would become the first key to unlocking the mystery of this invasion.
The atmosphere in the room shifted... from despair and fear... to a determination to find the truth. They had a new mission... bigger than any hit job...
It was a mission for their own survival.
Millie took the parchment and quill in her still-shaking hand. She took a deep breath, staring at the blank space, but in her mind... she was staring deep into Akaza's terrifying golden eyes again.
The quill tip touched the parchment.
She began to draw slowly... translating the memory of a split second of combat into physical form.
A vertical line... followed by a symbol that looked like stacked crosses...
MILLIE
(Muttering to herself)
...The first one looked like this...
Then she moved to draw the more complex character next to it... multiple strokes forming a shape that looked both elegant and dangerous.
When she finished... she handed the parchment to Stolas. On it were two Kanji characters, drawn somewhat shakily but clearly legible.
上弦 (Jōgen - Upper Rank)
参 (San - Three)
Stolas took the parchment carefully. His four eyes scrutinized the symbols. A faint red light glowed in his irises as he analyzed their structure and meaning. He didn't know the language... but his magic could decode the "intent" embedded in the symbols.
Silence fell again... but this time it was a silence filled with anticipation.
STOLAS
(Looking up, his expression graver than ever)
...This is not a name...
He spoke flatly, but everyone felt the weight of his words.
STOLAS
...It is a "Title"... A Rank.
BLITZØ
(Raising an eyebrow)
A rank? Like military shit?
STOLAS
(Nodding)
Yes... and extremely specific. The first symbol means "Upper String" or "Upper Rank". The second is a number... "Three".
He pointed at the characters on the parchment.
STOLAS
"Upper Rank Three"... That is what you fought. And its existence... tells us several very worrying things.
MOXXIE
(Gulping)
Worrying... how?
STOLAS
(Staring deep into Moxxie’s eyes)
It implies a "Hierarchy"... It implies an "Organization"... If there is an "Upper Rank Three", there must be a "Two" and a "One"... and highly likely "Lower Ranks" as well... And the six-eyed warrior on the news... I would bet my entire library that he is "Upper Rank One".
Moxxie’s world crumbled again.
MOXXIE
(Voice high-pitched)
An organization?! An army?! We are facing an army of these freaks ranked by strength?!
Blitzø ignored Moxxie’s panic. His thoughts were racing elsewhere... to the top of the pyramid.
BLITZØ
(Interjecting harshly)
...If there's an army... there's gotta be a leader.
The words stopped everyone cold... A new truth, more terrifying than before, emerged.
But before anyone could speak further... a raspy groan came from the corner of the room.
???
Ugh... my head... Who parked a truck on my skull...
Everyone turned to see Loona slowly sitting up on the other couch. She held her temples, grimacing. Her slightly bloodshot eyes blinked rapidly to adjust focus.
BLITZØ
(Sighing deeply)
Finally, Sleeping Beauty wakes up...
LOONA
(Looking around dazed)
What... the fuck happened? I just remember getting bitch-slapped by something... and then... Huh?
Her gaze landed on Millie sitting up, then scanned the extra-tense office, and finally the owl prince standing stressed in the middle of the room.
LOONA
...What did I miss?
Blitzø walked over and crouched in front of her, putting a hand on her shoulder.
BLITZØ
(Speaking fast)
Long story short... glowing muscle-freaks from another dimension invaded Hell. They almost killed you and Millie. And now it looks like we're the only idiots who have to figure out how to stop them... Welcome back.
He held up the parchment with the Kanji for her to see.
Loona looked at the symbol, not understanding, before looking up at the tired, worried faces of her family... Blitzø, Moxxie, and Millie.
She let out a loud sigh, the faint smell of booze on her breath.
LOONA
...You guys are fucking kidding me, right?
Chapter 18: Tales from 666 News
Summary:
The battle concludes with a frustrating outcome. Vox is forced to sacrifice his avatar to escape with his life, leaving Kokushibo standing solitary amidst the ruins of the penthouse. This hollow victory marks the beginning of a declaration of all-out war.
Moments later, news of the raid spreads to every corner of Hell via 666 News, stirring panic and capturing the attention of the powerful. Valentino and Velvet of "The Vees" prepare to retaliate against the challenger who dared to humiliate their ally.
The residents of Hazbin Hotel watch with anxiety... except for Alastor, who finds exquisite entertainment in the disruption of the power hierarchy.
And Kokushibo, emerging from the building amidst blinding camera flashes and the gaze of the crowd, has demonstrated exactly what fate awaits those who stand in his way... A single strike to silence all arrogance!
The legend of the "Six-Eyed Reaper" has begun, and all of Hell is watching his every move!
Chapter Text
Minutes Earlier. Interior - Vox’s Penthouse.
Kokushibo’s blade swung down... a perfect motion that had claimed the heads of countless swordsmen and demons. It was swift... decisive... and unstoppable.
But its target... refused to accept that fate.
In the fraction of a second before the flesh blade touched the glass screen... Vox’s TV face flashed a blinding white light!
VOX
(Digital voice distorted into a roar)
RE-BOOOOOOOOT!!!
KZRT-BOOOOOOOOM!!!
Not an explosion of matter... but an explosion of pure energy!
Vox’s body became the epicenter of a massive electrostatic dome that expanded violently. It was an impossibly powerful EMP (Electro-Magnetic Pulse) shockwave. It wasn't aimed at physical destruction, but at frying every circuit and scrambling every brain wave in its radius!
Kokushibo, being the closest, took the full force!
Even though his demon body had no circuits to fry... his heightened senses, honed over centuries, were brutally assaulted. It was the scream of a million volts ringing in his head all at once. His six eyes blurred with static like a lost TV signal. His body was blasted backward several meters by the energy wave for the first time.
He wasn't injured... but he was momentarily stunned.
When the white light faded... Kokushibo recovered quickly. He shook his head to clear the disorientation, his six eyes refocusing.
But in front of him... was nothing.
Vox had vanished... without a trace. Leaving only the smell of severely burnt ozone and a penthouse now plunged into total darkness. Every screen was dead, just black, lifeless glass.
...Almost all.
A single small screen, clinging to a wrecked wall... flickered on and off... before displaying a text message in blood-red font, typed in a hurry...
> YOU WILL REGRET MESSING WITH THE VEES.
>
> SIGNAL LOST...
>
The message vanished as the screen died, leaving the room in darkness and silence. Only the blood-red light from the sky outside filtered through the shattered windows.
Kokushibo stood still amidst the ruin, his sword still in hand.
He wasn't angry... he was analyzing.
KOKUSHIBO
(Muttering to himself)
...Abandoned his form to escape... transformed into energy... Not a battle... but a trick...
He slowly sheathed his sword. The fight was over... in a disgusting draw. He had won the duel... but the enemy had escaped. It was a feeling he hadn't experienced in a very long time.
...
Interior - Valentino’s Porn Studio - Night
Garish pink lights bathed the set, which was filled with equipment and scantily clad demon models. Valentino, the tall moth pimp Overlord in a fur coat, was screaming at his minions furiously.
VALENTINO
I told you the camera angle needs to be lower! I want depravity! Not a fucking kindergarten show! Film the—
ZZZT!
Suddenly, the studio lights flickered violently before half of them died out completely!
VALENTINO
(Growling)
Someone check the damn power! If this is Vox trying to prank me again, I swear to Lucifer...
??? (O.S.)
It's not him this time, Val.
Velvette, the fashionista Overlord, stepped out of the shadows. In her hand was the latest model smartphone, screen glowing. Her face, usually filled with confidence and boredom... now showed a seriousness never seen before.
VELVETTE
(Showing the phone to Valentino)
Huge power surge across Vox’s entire grid... He just sent a distress signal to us... right before going completely offline.
On Velvette’s phone screen was the footage from the last security camera... blurry and full of static... but clear enough...
An image of a mysterious man with six eyes... standing in the ruins of Vox’s penthouse.
Valentino stared at the image. His fangs ground together loudly. Red heart-shaped smoke puffed from his mouth in anger.
VALENTINO
...Who the fuck is that...
Velvette zoomed in on the image. Her eyes narrowed... analyzing every detail of the kimono and the katana.
VELVETTE
...I don't know... but one thing's for sure... Pentagram City just got a dangerous new toy... and it just broke our friend's house...
She looked up at Valentino, her eyes gleaming with a terrifying mix of challenge and excitement.
VELVETTE
...Looks like... "The Vees" are gonna have to step out... and teach the new kid some manners.
...
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Night
The atmosphere in the Hazbin Hotel lobby was... strangely "normal."
Angel Dust was lounging on the long sofa, bored out of his mind, petting Fat Nuggets who was asleep on his chest. Husk was wiping the same glass for the hundredth time behind the bar, looking grumpier than usual. Niffty was chasing a cockroach in the corner with a creepy giggle.
Charlie Morningstar stood in front of a whiteboard, trying to explain the weekly "Trust Building Activity Schedule" with a hopeful smile, while Vaggie stood beside her, arms crossed, with a look mixed between support and exhaustion.
CHARLIE
...And after we finish the "Forgiveness Cookies," in the afternoon we'll do "Hug Therapy"! It's gonna be super great! Don't you guys think...
??? (O.S.)
...BREAKING NEWS! FROM 666 NEWS!
The loud voice coming from the old tube TV in the corner stopped everyone. On the screen was the face of Katie Killjoy, the news anchor grinning sadistically.
KATIE KILLJOY (ON TV)
Looks like we have some real entertainment tonight, folks! Just minutes ago, a massive blackout hit the Media and Entertainment District, centered right on the tower of... well, who else but our favorite TV Overlord... or former favorite, who knows! VoxTek Enterprises!
The screen cut to live footage from a news chopper, showing Vox’s tower completely dark, with only a few emergency lights on.
TOM TRENCH (ON TV)
(Muffled voice)
Our sources are also reporting explosions and sounds of battle from the top floor, Katie...
KATIE KILLJOY (ON TV)
That's right, Tom! And we just got our hands on exclusive footage from the last camera before the whole system crashed! Let's see who had the balls to step on one of the "Vees" toes!
The screen switched to the shaky, static-filled CCTV footage... but the image was clear enough to silence the entire lobby.
It was the image of a man in a kimono... with six eyes... standing majestically amidst the ruins of Vox’s office.
VAGGIE
(Eyes wide)
...What the hell is that...
ANGEL DUST
(Sitting up, ignoring Fat Nuggets)
Whoa... Who's the new guy? Bold enough to stomp my boss's boss right in his house... Ballsy. But... six eyes? Kinda creepy, but kinda hot...
VAGGIE
(Snapping)
Angel! This isn't a joke! Anyone who can do that to Vox... is a supreme level threat!
CHARLIE
(Looking at the TV with concern)
He looks... sad... like he's lost...
HUSK
(Muttering, not looking up from his glass)
...Hmph... Just another powerful idiot trying to make a name for himself. Gonna bring a whole lot of trouble soon enough...
While everyone debated with different feelings...
Only one person stood still... grinning wider than ever.
Alastor, the Radio Demon, stepped out of the shadows silently. His eyes were glued to the TV screen. His voice, filtering through his smile, was filled with unhidden amusement, accompanied by faint radio static.
ALASTOR
(Voice like a radio broadcast)
...Ha-ha! It seems Pentagram City has a fresh live entertainment program! Someone brave enough to change the channel on our dear colleague right in his own home! What an... impressive debut indeed!
Vaggie turned to glare at Alastor.
VAGGIE
This isn't entertainment, Alastor! If a dangerous variable like this appears... he might come to our hotel!
Alastor chuckled low in his throat. His eyes flashed red for a moment.
ALASTOR
Oh, my dear... that is the most entertaining part!
He stared at the frozen image on the TV... at Kokushibo standing alone... Alastor’s smile stretched almost to his ears.
For Charlie, it was a new soul to help.
For Vaggie, it was a threat to watch.
For the others, it was trouble...
But for Alastor... a new wave crashing in to disrupt the power board of Hell... was the sweetest music in the world.
Present Time - Interior - Ruins of Vox’s Penthouse
Darkness and silence didn't bother Kokushibo in the slightest. He stood in the middle of the destroyed room, letting his demon senses adjust to the new environment devoid of technological stimuli.
He bent down and picked up a piece of twisted metal. It was part of the energy gun he had sliced. One pair of eyes analyzed it closely... the structure, the burnt internal circuitry...
KOKUSHIBO
(Muttering)
...Generates power externally... not from one's own core... fragile...
He dropped the metal piece indifferently. It hit the floor with a loud CLANG that echoed through the silent room.
The warning message "The Vees" still echoed in his mind. He knew it was a group name... an alliance... He sensed two other energy signatures loosely connected to Vox’s. One felt sticky and filled with disgusting lust... the other felt sharp, flashy, and rapidly changing like fashion.
But he didn't care... Chasing down a list left by an enemy... was not the way of a warrior.
True war... is declaring oneself... and letting those who think they are strong... crawl to their own deaths.
He turned his back on the ruin... and walked straight toward the massive hole in the wall that used to be a giant window.
Exterior - Front of VoxTek Enterprises - Continuous
Below... chaos had already begun.
Vans from 666 News and other outlets clogged the street. Hell Police sirens flashed wildly. A massive crowd of demons gathered behind the barricades, chattering and speculating about what happened to one of the most powerful Overlords.
DEMON #1
I heard Alastor came and wrecked him!
DEMON #2
Bullshit! I bet he fought with Valentino over some contract dispute!
DEMON #3
You guys are idiots! It's gotta be an off-season purge! The Angels sent an assassin!
As rumors spread... a figure slowly stepped out from the main entrance of the ruined building...
...Kokushibo...
He stepped into the neon lights and siren glare calmly. Not hiding. Not rushing. Like he was taking a stroll in his own garden.
Every sound died instantly...
Every eye... the crowd, the reporters, the police... locked onto the mysterious six-eyed man. Katie Killjoy, reporting live, dropped her jaw.
Suddenly, a hyena-like demon, covered in tattoos and holding a steel pipe, laughed loudly. He was a street gang leader hoping to seize the chance for fame.
HYENA GANG LEADER
(Pointing the pipe at Kokushibo)
HAHAHA! Looks like we found the culprit, boys! I don't know who you are... but if you caused trouble for that TV-head... you're enemies with half the city! And that means... your head has a bounty!
He signaled his four or five goons nearby... they split up to surround Kokushibo.
HYENA GANG LEADER
Come quietly... and maybe you won't die painfully!
Kokushibo stopped walking... He showed no emotion. His six eyes swept over the lowly demons surrounding him slowly... His gaze didn't hold anger... only disappointment.
KOKUSHIBO
...Pathetic...
That was the last word the Hyena leader heard...
...Fwip...
No one saw the movement... only a faint purple flash drawing a beautiful crescent in the air...
...Schlick...
The bodies of the gang leader and all his goons... froze in unison...
Before their upper bodies... slowly slid off their lower halves and fell to the ground at the exact same moment... black blood erupting like fountains.
Kokushibo stood still in the same pose... his sword sheathed before anyone realized he had drawn it.
He didn't even glance at the corpses littering the ground...
He simply... continued walking...
The crowd, once loud... was now quieter than a graveyard.
Until someone screamed in pure terror... and that was the signal...
The crowd scattered like ants! They ran for their lives, trampling each other to clear a path for the walking death.
The Hell Police, usually acting tough... scrambled for cover. Not a single one dared to raise a weapon to block his path.
Kokushibo walked through the center of the encirclement, which was now an open path of death's glory... The cameras of 666 News captured him the entire time... broadcasting this image of terror to every circle of Hell.
They didn't know the name "Kokushibo"...
But on that night... a new legend was born among the citizens of Pentagram City...
...The legend of the mysterious six-eyed demon... and the blade that draws the moon of death.
Chapter 19: Fractures
Summary:
News of the massacre by the "Moon Demon" spreads throughout Pentagram City, igniting a blaze of fear and fury. While Valentino seeks vengeance for his associates, the more calculating Velvette sees perfection in the killer’s work, opting to place a bounty for "information" rather than death.
Meanwhile, at the Hazbin Hotel, the grim news creates an unseen fracture. Vaggie demands a total lockdown for safety, but Alastor—seeing a golden opportunity for publicity (and personal amusement)—manipulates Charlie into holding fast to her dangerous ideals.
Charlie’s decision to keep the doors open does more than just invite a threat inside... it widens the chasm between her and Vaggie. It is a tiny rift that could lead to a catastrophe far greater than any beast from another dimension!
Chapter Text
Exterior - All Districts of Pentagram City - Night
The news spread faster than hellfire.
The footage from 666 News was replayed on loop on every functioning screen... in the dingy bar where Husk used to work, on the smartphones of gossiping Imps, even on giant billboards that usually advertised Vox’s shows, now hacked by rivals to gleefully display the massacre in front of VoxTek Tower.
Conversations shifted across the entire city...
"Did you see his eyes? It's like your soul gets ripped out just by looking at them!"
"I heard his blade is literally solidified moonlight!"
"They've started calling him... the name the reporters gave him... 'The Moon Demon'."
The name caught on instantly. It was mysterious, imposing, and perfectly described his distinct crescent-shaped attacks. Kokushibo hadn't given his name to this world... but Hell had already christened him.
...
Interior - Velvette’s Office - Night
Velvette’s office was the polar opposite of Vox’s. It was a fashion studio filled with sharp taste, lined with mannequins wearing her latest designs. A large touchscreen wall displayed looped footage of the "Moon Demon" walking through the crowd.
Valentino stood beside it, crushing his phone into dust with sheer rage. Red heart-shaped smoke poured from his mouth endlessly.
VALENTINO
(Growling)
He disrespected us! He’s just strolling around after wrecking Vox’s house! Velvette! Send our people! Send Angel to lure him! Send anyone to rip him to shreds and livestream it! We need payback!
Velvette didn't even turn to look at him. Her eyes were glued to the screen, analyzing Kokushibo’s every move.
VELVETTE
(Voice flat)
And just feed expensive assets to him for slaughter? Don't be stupid, Val... Look at how he moves... Not a single wasted motion. Every step, every shift... it's too perfect. This isn't just some street thug with power... this is... a Grandmaster.
She turned to face Valentino, her eyes sharp.
VELVETTE
Sending our people now is suicide. We need to know who he is, where he came from, and most importantly... what he wants.
She turned back to the screen and tapped rapidly with her long, slender fingers.
VELVETTE
I’m putting a bounty on him... but not a kill bounty... that’s too crude... A bounty for Information. Anyone who can tell us who this 'Moon Demon' is, what his weakness is, or where he’s heading... gets a handsome reward from The Vees...
She smirked.
VELVETTE
Let the scum of Hell be our guinea pigs... Once they find a weakness... that's when we make our move.
...
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Continuous
The image on the TV faded to a commercial for demon constipation medicine, but no one in the room paid attention.
The silence blanketing the lobby was heavier than before. It wasn't the silence of surprise anymore, but of genuine panic. The image of a demon split in two so effortlessly... the crowd scattering in terror... it was raw, live footage, too brutal to be just another Overlord rumor.
Angel Dust whistled softly, devoid of his usual playfulness.
ANGEL DUST
Okay... I gotta admit, this guy is the real deal... Valentino must be shaking with rage getting disrespected like that... This isn't gonna end pretty.
CHARLIE
(Voice trembling, hand on her chest)
He... he killed them... without hesitation... They just... confronted him... but he...
Her eyes were filled with confusion and pain. Her belief in the "good in every soul" was being tested violently. That cold, emotionless violence contradicted everything she was trying to build.
VAGGIE
(Stepping between Charlie and the TV, eyes hard)
I told you, Charlie! This isn't just a lost soul! This is the Grim Reaper! He’s a walking force of destruction!
She turned to address the room, her voice commanding.
VAGGIE
That’s enough! The hotel is going into lockdown immediately! I’m reinforcing all doors and windows! No one enters or leaves until I’m sure it’s safe out there!
NIFFTY
(Running around excitedly)
Lockdown! Lockdown! Is there gonna be blood inside!?!
HUSK
(Sighing deeply, overfilling his glass)
Go ahead... locking ourselves in here isn't much different from being out there... at least in here there's booze until this shit blows over.
But Charlie shook her head, tears welling up.
CHARLIE
No, Vaggie... We can't do that... The hotel's principle is to open its doors to anyone seeking help... Closing the door on them... means we're giving up...
VAGGIE
(Turning to face Charlie, voice softer but firm)
Giving up on what!? Charlie! This is about protecting the people inside! Protecting YOU! If that maniac storms in here, what do you think will happen?! What are we gonna fight him with!?!
The tense conversation was interrupted by a soft chuckle accompanied by radio static...
ALASTOR
(Leaning against the wall, smiling wide)
...My, my... What a lively debate! On one side, boring safety... on the other, dangerous ideology! A classic dilemma indeed!
He tapped his microphone staff on the floor, stepping into the center of the conversation.
ALASTOR
But if I may offer my opinion... I agree with Charlie!
VAGGIE
(Eyes widening)
Excuse me!?
ALASTOR
(Ignoring Vaggie, staring at Charlie with an unreadable smile)
Closing the door shows weakness... but opening it to welcome anything that might enter... that is a display of true power! Imagine, Charlie... if such a powerful and broken soul... chose to walk into this hotel seeking redemption...
His eyes glowed deep red...
ALASTOR
...It would be the greatest PR stunt in the history of Hell!
Alastor’s words hung in the air... perfectly twisting Charlie’s ideology into a tool for his entertainment.
He supported her... but for the most dangerous reasons.
Charlie looked at Alastor... then at Vaggie... before her gaze returned to the hotel's front door...
Now... that door didn't look like a symbol of hope anymore...
It looked like the entrance to a decision that might destroy everything she had built.
Alastor’s words lingered... cold and manipulative. They seeped into the conflict between Charlie and Vaggie like honey-coated poison.
Vaggie glared at Alastor. Her angelic spear materialized in her hand instinctively.
VAGGIE
You're insane! You want us all to die for your "entertainment"!?
ALASTOR
(Shrugging lightly, smile never fading)
A life without risk... is like a radio show without static... bland and boring! And most importantly... I'm not the one deciding, am I?
All eyes turned back to Charlie. She was the eye of this storm.
Charlie looked at Vaggie... her anchor of reason and safety... then at Alastor... the unpredictable storm who strangely empowered her... and finally at the hotel's grand doors.
She took a deep breath... and decided.
CHARLIE
(Voice firmer, hesitation gone)
...The hotel stays open.
VAGGIE
(Voice shaking with disappointment)
Charlie... don't...
CHARLIE
(Stepping forward to hold Vaggie’s hands, looking deep into her eyes)
Vaggie... I understand your worry. I really do... But if we close the doors... we're no different from everyone else in Hell who turns their back on those who might need help the most... If we don't believe in our own mission... who will?
Her tone was filled with pure idealism... but this time, it was tainted with a stubbornness influenced by Alastor's provocation.
CHARLIE
We will increase defenses... We will be prepared... But we will not close the doors... That is my decision.
Vaggie looked at their joined hands... She knew she had lost. She couldn't fight Charlie’s limitless hope... especially when amplified by the Radio Demon smiling beside her. She slowly released her hands and lowered her spear... her eyes filled with pain.
VAGGIE
(Whispering)
...I just... don't want to lose you...
ALASTOR
(Tapping his staff once on the floor, concluding the conversation)
Splendid! A truly courageous decision, Charlie! Well then... since the boring part is settled... I shall take my leave to... monitor the situation closely!
With that... Alastor’s body sank into his own shadow unnaturally, leaving behind only a soft laugh echoing in the air... and an invisible fracture forming between the Princess of Hell and her protector.
Chapter 20: Live Broadcast of Death
Summary:
When the truth is finally revealed... the reckless plan to storm Vox's headquarters turns into a suicide mission in the blink of an eye!
Just as the I.M.P. team is gearing up for battle, a live broadcast from 666 News stops them in their tracks: the appearance of Kokushibo in front of Vox's building.
Witnessing the "Upper Moon's" silent and elegant massacre on the screen forces everyone to reassess the enemy's true strength. Blitzø immediately realizes that a head-on confrontation spells the end. He instantly shifts the strategy from "Invasion" to "Salvage."
The new objective: the corpses scattered across the entrance. They must find traces of the "blade" and "power" that might reveal the enemy's weakness. A death-defying, four-and-a-half-minute operation right in the heart of the danger zone has begun!
Chapter Text
Interior - I.M.P. Office.
No one laughed at Loona’s question.
Blitzø’s face was void of any trace of humor. He locked eyes with his adopted daughter, his gaze heavier and wearier than it had ever been.
BLITZØ
(Voice flat)
I wish I could say I was kidding, Loony... I wish I could say this was just a fucked-up nightmare from that cheap booze you sneak... but I can't.
He gestured around the room... to the bloodstains on the couch, Millie’s battered form, and Moxxie’s pale face.
BLITZØ
...Because this shit is real.
Loona slowly absorbed the situation. Her eyes widened slightly as the last memories before she blacked out returned vividly... the pain tearing through her body, the feeling of utter helplessness... and those golden eyes looking at her like she was an insect.
She turned to look at Stolas, who was looking back at their group with a gaze that mixed concern with cosmic worry.
STOLAS
(Nodding slowly)
I must take my leave... Blitzy. Every second counts. I will send word the moment I find anything useful.
He walked over to Blitzø and placed a hand gently on the smaller imp's shoulder. It was a touch devoid of any sexual intent, only genuine care.
STOLAS
(Voice softer)
...Take care of yourself... and take care of them.
Blitzø could only nod, saying nothing.
Stolas stepped back. The same deep red magic circle appeared beneath his feet again. Ancient runes glowed around him like a wall of energy.
STOLAS
(Looking at everyone one last time)
...War is coming... and this time, our enemy is not from Heaven.
With those words, his body vanished along with the circle, leaving only the faint smell of ozone and a silence more oppressive than before.
That silence didn't last long... because it was broken by the sound of Blitzø dragging his office chair to the middle of the room. He climbed up to stand on it, putting himself at eye level with everyone.
BLITZØ
(Crossing his arms, looking at each team member)
Alright, listen up, fuckers!
His voice returned to its decisive, authoritative tone of a boss.
BLITZØ
Hit jobs... forget 'em for now! Passion projects... shelved! Right now, I.M.P. has only one new mission... SURVIVAL! And to survive... we need to know who the fuck we're fighting!
He pointed at the door.
BLITZØ
The owl is right. We're the front line... and the front line needs to go find intel! We have two leads. One is the crime scene in the Human World... which probably has jack shit left by now. Two...
His eyes glinted dangerously.
BLITZØ
...Is Vox’s tower.
Moxxie jumped, standing up immediately.
MOXXIE
(Voice shaking)
Sir! That is literal suicide! That's an Overlord's tower! And it's where that six-eyed freak just rampaged! He might still be there! Or there could be traps! Or... or other Overlords might be swarming the place to scavenge! It's too dangerous!
Millie, sitting on the couch, shifted painfully but countered with a fierce voice.
MILLIE
So what do we do, Mox?! Sit here and wait for them to come kill us?! I want to see that bastard's face again! I'm gonna chop him into tiny pieces!
MOXXIE
(Turning to his wife, eyes full of fear)
Sweetie! But you almost died! We all almost died! I... I don't want to lose you again!
Everyone turned to look at Loona, who had been silent. She just shrugged.
LOONA
...Better than rotting in here... At least outside there might be something to eat.
All eyes returned to Blitzø, waiting for the final verdict.
Blitzø looked at Moxxie on the verge of tears, Millie burning with vengeance, and Loona feigning indifference but with serious eyes. He took a deep breath.
BLITZØ
Moxxie... I get that you're scared... Honestly... I'm scared shitless too.
He hopped down from the chair, walked over to Moxxie, and patted his trusty employee on the shoulder.
BLITZØ
But that fear is exactly why we have to do this... Because if we do nothing, they will come back... and next time, Stolas might not be fast enough to save us... Next time, we might not get the chance to argue like this.
He paused, letting the words sink in.
BLITZØ
We're going to Vox’s tower... but we're not gonna storm in like idiots. We're going to scout... find clues... see what that six-eyed freak left behind... We get in quiet, we get out quiet. Understand?
Moxxie looked deep into his boss's eyes... He was still trembling with fear... but when he looked past him to see Millie nodding encouragement... that fear was slowly suppressed by love and loyalty.
MOXXIE
(Sighing deeply, nodding slowly)
...Understood... sir.
BLITZØ
(Slapping Moxxie’s shoulder harder, smiling for the first time)
Good! Because if you didn't go, I was gonna tie you up and drag you along anyway!
The tension eased slightly.
Blitzø turned back to his desk. But instead of grabbing his usual flintlock... he opened a secret drawer underneath all the weapons... Inside was a single, large revolver that looked ancient and powerful... along with a box of silver bullets etched with strange runes.
BLITZØ
(Muttering to himself)
...Don't know if this will work... but better than nothing.
Over by Millie, she stood up steadily and walked to the weapons cabinet, grabbing her favorite giant axe. She pulled out a whetstone and began sharpening it calmly. The shhhhk... shhhhk... sound of metal grinding filled the room.
Moxxie went to grab his sniper rifle. He checked the mechanism and scope meticulously. Even though he was scared... his duty was to protect the team from afar, and he would do it perfectly.
And Loona... she stood up, stretching until her bones cracked, before walking to the door.
LOONA
...If we're going, let's go... I'll go start the van.
Blitzø loaded the silver bullets into the revolver until it was full. Each click sounded heavy in the silence. He snapped the cylinder shut and spun it lightly before looking up at his "family," now transformed back into a task force.
Everyone was ready.
BLITZØ
(Holstering the revolver at his waist)
Alright... I.M.P. ...Let's go ghost hunting.
Loona grabbed the doorknob, about to yank it open to the hallway.
BLITZØ
(Patting his holster one last time)
Okay... Move out!
But before the first foot could step out of the room... the high-pitched, annoying jingle characteristic of 666 News blared from the TV that was still on. Followed by Katie Killjoy’s excited scream.
KATIE KILLJOY (V.O. FROM TV)
BREAKING NEWS! ABSOLUTE BREAKING NEWS! FOLKS! STAY RIGHT THERE! THE MYSTERY INTRUDER HAS SHOWN HIMSELF! RIGHT IN FRONT OF VOXTEK! WE ARE LIVE!
Everyone in the room froze like statues...
The four of them whipped around to look at the TV screen simultaneously without a word.
The screen showed live footage from a news chopper, then cut to a violently shaking ground camera. The image was far clearer than the blurry CCTV clip from earlier...
...A man in ancient warrior armor... with Six Eyes.
They stood staring at the image dumbfounded... The image of Kokushibo stepping out of the ruins majestically like a king returning to his throne. The image of the silent crowd. And the image of a stupid gang of thugs walking up to confront him...
MOXXIE
(Muttering, voice shaking)
...What... what are they doing... Run! You idiots!
Millie gripped her axe handle tighter unconsciously. Her eyes were fixed on the long sword at Kokushibo’s waist... It was the same sword from the news image... but now it looked infinitely more real and terrifying.
Then the moment came...
They saw Kokushibo mouth something inaudible... and in a split second...
A purple crescent flash flared on the screen...
No one made a sound...
Everyone in the I.M.P. office could only widen their eyes... staring at the most horrific image they had ever seen on live broadcast...
The image of the entire hyena gang's bodies... their upper halves slowly sliding off their lower halves... black blood erupting, spraying the street like an opened hydrant.
The camera zoomed in on Kokushibo’s face... a face that remained impassive, indifferent. As if he had just brushed dust off his clothes...
Loona’s jaw dropped. Any curse word she thought of stuck in her throat.
Moxxie collapsed onto the couch, drained of strength. His face was white as a sheet.
Millie... a fighter who feared nothing... let out a soft breath. Her killer instincts were screaming... That wasn't a fight... that was a harvest.
The TV footage continued... Kokushibo walked through the scattering crowd indifferently... The Hell Police parted for him like he was royalty... Every camera focused on him alone... He wasn't running... He was declaring himself.
Blitzø stood the most still... He wasn't just watching the killing... he was analyzing... The speed, the precision, the flawless movement... and most importantly... that chilling calmness.
He compared the image before him with the memory of fighting "Upper Rank Three"... Akaza was aggressive, wild, and enjoyed the fight...
But this man... this man was completely different.
He was cold death... a perfect vacuum.
The TV cut back to the studio. Katie Killjoy was screaming maniacally with excitement, but no one in the room heard her voice anymore...
A heavy silence blanketed the I.M.P. office again... but this time it wasn't the silence of determination... it was the silence of being stunned speechless.
Moxxie was the first to regain his senses... He turned to look at Blitzø with eyes full of utter pleading.
MOXXIE
(Voice raspy)
...Sir... We... We can't go there... We can't go...
This time... no one argued with him.
Millie slowly lowered the axe in her hand. The plan to storm in for revenge seemed like the cruelest joke right now.
Blitzø remained still, staring at the TV screen which was now a freeze-frame of Kokushibo captured as "Breaking News." He was re-evaluating the situation rapidly... Plan A to sneak into Vox’s tower... wasn't just suicide anymore... it was walking into being erased from existence.
He turned his back on the TV, walking straight to his desk.
He didn't grab more weapons...
Instead, he pulled out a large map of Pentagram City and spread it on the desk.
Everyone watched him silently.
BLITZØ
(Not looking up)
...Moxxie’s right... We can't go to the tower... That six-eyed fucker made it clear... That place is his "Territory" now. Anyone who enters... declares war.
He looked up, meeting everyone's eyes.
BLITZØ
...But we still have to go there.
Moxxie was about to protest, but Blitzø raised a hand to stop him.
BLITZØ
(Pointing a finger at a spot on the map... right at the intersection in front of VoxTek)
We won't go into the building... We're going to the "Crime Scene" right here... where those hyena idiots are lying dead...
He looked at Loona.
BLITZØ
Loona... smell... Did you get any scent from that Upper Three guy? A scent different from normal demons?
Loona frowned, trying to recall.
LOONA
...I don't know... He... he barely had a scent... Like... cold stone and... faint blood. That's it... Why?
BLITZØ
(Nodding)
Good... That might be a clue... They might not have a unique body odor like demons... But his "Sword"? His power? He might have left a "trace" on those corpses... A trace that the stupid cops or bloodthirsty reporters won't see.
He turned back to Moxxie and Millie.
BLITZØ
Change of plans! We're going there... but our goal is sample collection... Flesh scraps, cut marks on the ground, anything that touched his sword... We spend no more than five minutes during the peak chaos... Get in... grab shit... and get the fuck out... We do not get closer than 100 yards to the building!
This was the new plan... still incredibly dangerous... but more plausible.
It was an investigation mission... not a combat mission.
Moxxie looked at the map... at Blitzø’s serious face... then at Millie, who slowly nodded in agreement with the new plan.
He sighed deeply... the fear remained... but it was better than waiting here to die.
MOXXIE
...Five... five minutes only, sir...
BLITZØ
(Smirking slightly)
Four and a half, even... if everything goes to plan.
He rolled up the map.
BLITZØ
Alright... no time to waste... Before that bastard decides to come out for another stroll...
He looked at everyone one last time...
BLITZØ
...Operation Sample Snatch... start!
Chapter 21: Night City 2077
Summary:
A dimensional rift has flung Arisu and Usagi across time and space, landing them in "Night City"—a futuristic metropolis defined by blinding neon lights and urban decay in the year 2077.
In this place, there are no "Games" to be played. Instead, every passing second is a fight for survival against rampant theft and savagery. Their puzzle-solving intellect and physical prowess are the only weapons keeping them alive amidst ruthless cyber-gangs.
As they struggle to comprehend this strange new world, Arisu utilizes his "gamer" instincts to investigate the rift. He uncovers a spatial anomaly—conveniently masked as a "solar storm"—being covered up by the mega-corporation known as Arasaka.
The first clue points directly to the city's most powerful entity... Their quest to return home has now evolved into a direct challenge against the dark forces ruling this cyberpunk dystopia!
Chapter Text
Unknown Location - A Void Between Dimensions
The first sensation was a violent tearing.
It felt as though body and soul were being ripped apart at the atomic level, then forcibly reconstructed in a chaotic frenzy. Arisu and Usagi clung to each other tightly amidst a torrent of data streams and blinding lights rushing past like a cosmic storm. Their screams were swallowed by the absolute void...
...Before everything was spat out.
Exterior - A Narrow Alley - Night
CRASH!
Their bodies slammed onto wet, trash-strewn concrete. Above them, the dimensional rift rippled one last time before snapping shut... vanishing as if it had never existed.
The silence... lasted only a heartbeat.
Then, their senses were brutally assaulted.
Sound was the first wave to hit. Heavy, thumping electronic dance music blasted from somewhere nearby. The roar of vehicles flying overhead shook the air. Layered, unintelligible advertisements blared from every direction, mixing with the shouts of people speaking a language they couldn't quite place.
Light followed. Garish neon colors reflected off the puddles on the ground, creating a disorienting blur. Massive holographic signs floated in mid-air, displaying products and strangers' faces... There were no stars in the sky... only skyscrapers piercing the heavens, glowing like artificial suns.
Smell... The sharp tang of ozone from electricity, toxic exhaust fumes, the strange aroma of synthetic street food, and the damp, musty stench of rotting garbage.
Arisu slowly pushed himself up, his brain struggling to process the overload of data. "Where... where is this?"
Usagi sprang to her feet, dropping into a defensive stance. Her instincts screamed DANGER. The people walking past the mouth of the alley... they didn't look like anyone she had ever known. Many had eyes that glowed in the dark... some had arms made entirely of metal...
USAGI
(Whispering, voice trembling)
Arisu... look at those people...
They stepped out of the alley slowly, like newborn fawns... and faced a shocking reality.
The entire city was a jungle of steel and neon. Vehicles flew through the sky as if it were normal. People had modified their bodies with machinery until they barely resembled humans.
This wasn't Tokyo... This wasn't the Borderlands... This was a new world... A mad, dangerous future.
Arisu walked slowly toward an electronic newsstand by the street. The screen flashed violent news reports and ads for products he didn't recognize... and in the bottom right corner of the screen... a date was displayed...
23 / 10 / 2077
"The year 2077..." Arisu murmured, his voice barely audible.
They hadn't just crossed dimensions... they had crossed over 50 years of time...
As the weight of this revelation crashed down on them... three large men stepped in to block their path.
They were dressed in leather and had mechanical parts embedded in their faces and bodies. The leader’s eyes scanned Arisu and Usagi up and down, evaluating them... looking at their plain clothes and "natural" bodies as if they were alien artifacts.
THUG LEADER
(Voice dripping with mockery)
Hey... look at this, chooms... Fresh meat... No chrome on 'em at all... Must've wandered off some farm or something.
He stepped closer... pulling a heavy, large-caliber pistol from his coat.
THUG LEADER
(Grinning)
Hand over all your "Eddies"... and maybe... you won't have to bleed too much.
A new game... had begun... with no announcement... no rules... and no preparation time.
The barrel of the gun was pointed right at their faces... close enough that not even Usagi’s agility could dodge it. Arisu slowly raised both hands in the universal sign of surrender.
ARISU
(Speaking slowly and clearly)
Calm down... we really don't have anything... We... we're lost.
The leader laughed, a sound like grinding metal.
THUG LEADER
Lost? Everyone in Night City is lost, gonk. Cough it up!
As the thug spoke... Arisu’s eyes didn't lock onto the gun. He scanned the surroundings rapidly... and then he saw it.
Back in the alley they had just exited... on one wall hung a dilapidated electrical control box... wires were frayed and exposed, sparking blue arcs of electricity continuously.
His brain worked instantly... Electricity... Moisture... Metal...
He glanced at Usagi for a fraction of a second... and she understood immediately. The trust forged in death games required no words.
ARISU
(Pretending to reach into his pocket)
Okay, okay... I have... I have this...
He feigned searching his empty pockets... and subtly nudged an empty metal can on the ground toward Usagi with his foot.
USAGI
(Shouting suddenly)
LOOK AT THAT!
She pointed in the opposite direction out of nowhere. It was a crude distraction... but it worked.
The two lackeys instinctively looked away for a split second.
And that was enough...
CLANG!!!
Usagi kicked the metal can with precision, smashing it loudly against the opposite wall!
The leader, annoyed, turned to yell at his goons. "What the fuck are you looking at!?"
In that second of chaos...
Arisu grabbed a small metal pipe lying next to the trash... and threw it with all his might!
It wasn't a throw to attack... but to start a chain reaction!
The pipe sailed through the air and slammed directly into the sparking control box!
CRACK! ZZZZRT!!!
A violent short circuit! A blinding flash was followed by a fountain of blue sparks erupting from the box! High-voltage electricity surged through the water puddles on the ground... traveling straight to where the thugs were standing!
THUGS
AAAAAARGHHHHH!!!
All three screamed in agony. Their bodies convulsed violently before they collapsed onto the wet concrete, charred and unconscious. The gun skittered away across the pavement.
ARISU
(Shouting)
RUN!!!
He didn't wait. He grabbed Usagi’s hand and sprinted in the opposite direction. They ran deep into the chaotic concrete jungle, never looking back.
They ran... and ran... until they found a slightly open basement entrance to a massive Megabuilding. They squeezed inside quickly.
Interior - Underground Maintenance Corridor - Continuous
Both of them leaned against the cold wall, gasping for air. It was darker and quieter here, accompanied only by the sound of water pipes and distant ventilation fans.
The brutal reality of this new world... had hit them hard.
USAGI
(Trying to control her breathing)
That... was close...
Arisu nodded. He looked at his own hands, which were still trembling.
ARISU
(Voice serious)
Here... there is no "Game"... but the entire world is the "Arena"... and everyone is a "Player"...
He looked up to meet Usagi’s eyes. The confusion from moments ago was gone, replaced by a familiar determination... the look of someone analyzing a puzzle.
ARISU
The rules have changed... We have no intel... no cards... no time... We start from absolute zero.
ARISU
The first thing we do... is learn the rules of this mad world...
ARISU
...And then... figure out how to break them.
Their new mission had begun. Not to clear a game... but to survive... and find meaning in this seemingly hopeless dystopia.
They built a temporary "nest" in an abandoned unit on the 38th floor of the Megabuilding. The cracked window revealed the view of Night City that never slept... Neon lights, AVs buzzing by, and giant holographic ads floating between towers.
Usagi returned from a quiet scavenging run. In her hands were two unopened water bottles and two bars of synthetic protein that looked tasteless. She placed them on the table silently. Their first meal in the new world.
As for Arisu... he had found his "weapon."
It was an old, dusty Dataterm left in the room. It took him nearly an hour to rewire and boot it up. Now... his fingers were flying across the faded keyboard.
USAGI
(Sitting beside him, looking at the screen)
Find anything?
ARISU
(Shaking his head, frowning)
Not yet... Too much data... It's like trying to empty an ocean with a teaspoon.
He typed in search terms related to their arrival: "Dimensional rift," "Portal," "Supernatural phenomenon"... But the results were just sci-fi novels, nonsense conspiracy theories on underground forums, or ads for violent "Braindance" games.
ARISU
It's not working... We're using the wrong keywords... We have to think like people in this world... If a massive burst of energy appeared out of nowhere... what would they call it?
He paused... and started typing new terms...
"Mystery power surge," "Unknown energy spike," "Grid anomaly"... He specified the approximate date and time of their arrival.
The screen processed for a moment... before displaying results.
Dozens of reports from local news outlets... but they all had the same headline.
"NIGHT CITY ELECTRIC CORP CLARIFIES: CITYWIDE POWER SURGE CAUSED BY SOLAR FLARE."
USAGI
A solar flare?
ARISU
(Narrowing his eyes, reading the text closely)
It... doesn't make sense... A solar flare would have a wide-area impact, not a violent spike in a single localized point... like I saw in the Dealer's logs... This is... a lie.
He scrolled down... until he found a news piece that made him freeze.
It was an official statement... not from the electric company... but from "Arasaka Corporation."
ARASAKA SPOKESPERSON (ON SCREEN):
"...We confirm that the anomaly posed no danger, and Arasaka security systems remain uncompromised by the event. Citizens are advised to remain calm..."
Arisu clenched his fist.
USAGI
What is it? Who is Arasaka?
ARISU
(Pointing at the red Arasaka logo on the screen)
They are a mega-corporation... dealing in security and weapons... The question is... why would a weapons manufacturer issue a statement about a "solar flare"? It's not their jurisdiction... unless...
He looked up at Usagi, his eyes filled with a terrifying new understanding.
ARISU
...Unless that "solar flare"... was caused by their own technology... They aren't issuing a statement to comfort people... they are covering it up.
Silence filled the room.
Finally... they had found their first clue.
It wasn't a clue leading home... but a clue pointing directly to the heart of the most dangerous power in this world.
ARISU
(Whispering the name)
...Arasaka...
Their new path was set... To find a way back to the other dimension... they had to go to war with the organization that owned this city.
Chapter 22: Curses and Shadow Dogs
Summary:
Chishiya and Kuina have crossed dimensions into a world that appears to be a perfectly normal Japan... until they lay eyes on "it."
Twisted monstrosities, invisible to the common eye, crawl within the shadows. Yet, for the players from the Borderland, these beings are clearer—and more terrifying—than any nightmare. And when the sky is shrouded by a black "Veil," the true rules of this world are revealed.
Physical attacks render no effect. They are mere prey trapped within a cage of "Curses," until salvation arrives in the form of a pitch-black shadow!
Fushiguro Megumi, a young Jujutsu Sorcerer, emerges alongside his trusty Divine Dogs. However, this rescue brings forth a question even more dangerous than the threat itself... "Who are you people? And why can you see the Curses?"
Thus begins their journey into Jujutsu High to seek answers, all under the watchful eyes of the enforcers!
Chapter Text
Unknown Location - A Void Between Dimensions
The sensation was different from when the monster appeared... It wasn't a violent tear, but a gentle yet irresistible "pull." Chishiya and Kuina were sucked into a swirling current of light and color... their sense of time and space dissolving completely...
Before everything came to a soft stop.
Exterior - A Residential Street - Twilight
They stood on a clean, orderly sidewalk. The dimensional rift that brought them had vanished without a trace.
What lay before them... was the most confusing sight of all.
It was a perfectly "normal" Japanese town... Houses with lights on, cars driving in the distance, the sound of a roasted sweet potato truck announcement... Everything was eerily peaceful.
KUINA
(Looking around in disbelief)
What... is this? Are we... back?
Chishiya didn't answer immediately. He scanned the surroundings cautiously. This peace felt "wrong."
CHISHIYA
(Voice calm)
Don't let your guard down yet...
And then... Kuina was the first to see "It."
At the street corner ahead... "Something" was crawling out of the shadows of a narrow alley. It was humanoid but with distorted limbs sprouting unnaturally. Its head had multiple eyes and a wide, torn mouth muttering unintelligible sounds... It was the embodiment of a grotesque nightmare.
KUINA
(Gripping her baton tight, whispering)
Chishiya... what the hell is that...
Chishiya narrowed his eyes... his brain trying to find a logical explanation... but then something even more surprising happened.
A young office worker walked past... talking on his phone, looking down at the screen... and walked right through the monster... as if it were mere air.
CHISHIYA
(Eyes widening slightly)
...He... can't see it...
An incredible truth dawned on them... Only they could see this monster.
The strange creature ignored the humans passing by. It was heading toward a clear target... the High School across the street, which was now growing dark and empty.
As they watched...
"Emerge from darkness, blacker than darkness. Purify that which is impure."
Chishiya heard a faint whisper... before the twilight sky turned pitch black instantly!
It was as if a massive, invisible black dome had covered the entire school grounds and the area where they stood! The atmosphere turned eerily silent and cold.
KUINA
What's happening now!?
Inside this black "Curtain"... the monster stopped. It turned its multi-eyed head slowly... and stared directly at Chishiya and Kuina.
It knew... that someone could "see" it.
CURSE
"Ghh... s... ee..."
It emitted a horrifying sound... before slowly crawling straight toward the two of them.
They were trapped in an invisible dimension... with a monster no one could see... except them.
CHISHIYA
(Smirking slightly)
...Looks like... this world has a different kind of "Game"...
For Kuina, it was a nightmare... but for Chishiya... it was a new, challenging puzzle.
The distorted monster, or what this world called a "Curse," was creeping closer. An invisible pressure radiated from it, making it hard to breathe.
Kuina didn't wait for it to reach them. She tightened her grip on her baton and charged.
KUINA
(Shouting)
Chishiya! Back off!
She used all her speed to close the distance, swinging her steel baton violently at the curse's torso!
WHACK!!!
A loud impact... but the sensation was strange. Her baton passed partially through its body... like hitting thick sludge. It didn't create a wound, but it made the monster flinch and turn its full attention to her.
KUINA
(Eyes wide)
What the...
CURSE
GRAAAH!!!
The curse swung one of its unnaturally long arms at Kuina with brute force!
KUINA
Gah!
Kuina was swatted away several meters, but her skills allowed her to roll and recover instantly. Although winded and in pain, what shocked her more was... her physical attack... was completely ineffective.
Chishiya, watching from a distance, didn't panic. He was analyzing... "Not a physical entity... Normal attacks don't work... So our goal isn't to 'eliminate' it, but to 'stall' until this 'curtain' disappears."
The curse ignored Chishiya. It saw Kuina as the bigger threat and prepared to strike again!
But suddenly!
BOY'S VOICE
Divine Dogs!
A deep, cool voice of a young boy echoed from the shadows of the school building!
The shadows on the ground trembled violently before two massive wolves, one pitch black and one pure white, leaped out! They lunged at the curse from the side, tearing into it savagely!
ROAAAAR!!!
CRUNCH!
The curse screamed in agony as the fangs of the shadow dogs ripped through its form.
The owner of the voice slowly stepped out of the darkness. He wore a black uniform... his spiky black hair was messy... Fushiguro Megumi.
Megumi didn't look at Chishiya or Kuina. His eyes were fixed on the battle. He formed another hand sign.
The two Divine Dogs worked in perfect coordination. They cornered the curse before Megumi finished it off with another shikigami emerging from the shadows.
The curse's body dissolved into the air... as if it had never existed.
Silence returned...
The two Divine Dogs dissolved back into shadows... but the black "Curtain" in the sky remained.
Megumi turned slowly to face Chishiya and Kuina. His eyes held no friendliness, only suspicion and caution.
MEGUMI
(Voice cold)
The "Curtain" hasn't lifted yet...
He looked the pair up and down...
MEGUMI
Who are you? How did you get in here...
MEGUMI
...And why can you see the "Curse"?
They had just survived a monster attack... only to face an interrogation by a "monster hunter" who looked just as dangerous.
Fushiguro Megumi’s questions hung in the cold air. They weren't questions born of curiosity, but an interrogation by an enforcer who saw them as a "problem."
Kuina stood still in a defensive stance. She didn't trust this boy one bit.
But Chishiya... relaxed. He smirked slightly... that same smile that appeared whenever he encountered an interesting new "Game."
CHISHIYA
(Answering calmly)
That's a good question... But maybe a more interesting question is... what was that thing? And whose handiwork is this black sky?
Megumi frowned... his patience visibly thinning.
MEGUMI
I'm the one asking questions here.
The shadow beneath his feet began to ripple. The form of the black Divine Dog started to manifest again, baring its fangs and growling low—a clear warning that he wasn't playing around.
Kuina shifted slightly, ready to engage at any moment.
CHISHIYA
(Raising his hands slightly)
Easy now... We don't want to fight.
He looked at Megumi with analytical eyes before speaking the truth... but only half of it.
CHISHIYA
Let's just say... we're "not from around here"... and we're quite used to playing games where life is on the line... As for why we can see your "little friend"... we'd like to know that too.
The ambiguous answer made Megumi even more suspicious. "Not from around here"... what did that mean? Foreign Curse Users? Or something stranger?
As Megumi was about to press for answers...
Fwoosh...
The black "Curtain" in the sky dissolved rapidly!
The city's night lights and familiar ambient noise returned instantly, as if the event just now had never happened.
Megumi paused. He looked around. They were back standing in the middle of a "normal" residential area. Dealing with two suspicious individuals in the open was unwise.
He sighed wearily... before pulling out his phone.
He dialed... waited a moment.
MEGUMI
(Speaking into the phone)
...It's me... The curse is exorcised... But there's a complication... I'm bringing two "civilians" who can see curses in for questioning at the school... Yeah... they seem... unusual.
He hung up... and pocketed the phone.
Megumi turned to look at Chishiya and Kuina with decisive eyes.
MEGUMI
You're coming with me... Don't think about running.
It wasn't a request... it was an order.
Surviving the "Curse" attack was over... but being dragged into the "Jujutsu World" full of secrets and even greater dangers...
...had only just begun.
Chapter 23: Misplaced Souls
Summary:
Chishiya and Kuina are taken to Tokyo Jujutsu High, where they come face-to-face with this world's "Enforcer"... Gojo Satoru.
Possessing power beyond imagination, the man instantly sees through their facade, recognizing that they "do not belong to this world." He presents them with an irrefutable ultimatum: be eliminated as anomalies, or join his "game" as special observers.
Chishiya accepts the challenge, making his first move on this new chessboard. Under watchful eyes, he and Kuina infiltrate the secret archives, following a hidden invitation left by Gojo himself.
There, they uncover a bone-chilling truth... The dimensional rift was no accident. It is an "experiment" that has spanned centuries. And the mastermind behind it all may be a demon wearing the face of a priest, marked by stitches across his forehead... Kenjaku.
Chapter Text
Exterior - Residential Street - Continuous
Chishiya and Kuina didn't resist. They knew that defying a boy who could command shadow dogs to tear apart invisible monsters was, simply put, a stupid idea.
Not long after, a sleek black car pulled up silently. The driver was a man in a suit who looked perpetually nervous and exhausted with life (Ijichi Kiyotaka).
MEGUMI
(Opening the rear door)
Get in.
The two climbed into the back seat, with Megumi sitting beside them. The atmosphere inside the car was silent and even tenser than when they faced the curse.
The car moved away from the residential area, heading out of central Tokyo.
CHISHIYA
(Breaking the silence, voice casual)
This "School"... is it a government organization? Or a private one with more influence than the government?
MEGUMI
(Staring straight ahead)
That's none of your concern.
CHISHIYA
Oh? But I think it's important... If we're being taken for "questioning," shouldn't we know who runs this "Game"?
Megumi didn't answer, but Kuina noticed a vein pulsing on his temple in annoyance.
The car left the city and entered a dark, uninhabited mountainous region. It turned onto a small, seemingly endless road until it reached what looked like the entrance to a massive ancient shrine.
The car didn't stop but drove through the Torii gate... Kuina felt a momentary shiver run through her body... like driving through an invisible curtain of water.
Once through... the atmosphere changed completely. Here stood a colossal educational institution built in ancient Japanese architecture, isolated and imposing amidst the mountains.
The car came to a stop... They had arrived at "Jujutsu High."
Megumi led them out of the car... and at the entrance of the main building... a man was already waiting.
He was tall... with striking white hair... and wore a dark blindfold that completely covered his eyes... Gojo Satoru.
MEGUMI
(Sighing wearily)
Gojo-sensei... I told you there was no need to come...
GOJO
(Waving his hand dismissively)
Come on, Megumi! I heard you found some "interesting items." I just wanted to see for myself!
Gojo walked slowly toward Chishiya and Kuina. He circled them as if inspecting merchandise... before stopping right in front of Chishiya.
His relaxed smile slowly faded... replaced by a more serious demeanor... Even though his eyes were hidden, both Chishiya and Kuina felt an invisible, crushing pressure... a power many times greater than Kokushibo's.
GOJO
...Hmm... Interesting indeed...
He leaned in close, his face inches from Chishiya's.
GOJO
(Voice lower but powerful)
Inside the two of you... there isn't a speck of cursed energy... But you don't feel like normal people either... Your "souls"... they feel... misplaced...
GOJO
...Like you two... aren't supposed to exist in this world.
Chishiya's cool, confident smile... froze for the first time.
He stared into that blindfold... and realized instantly...
He had met the real "Game Master"... someone who could see through everything he was... perfectly.
The oppressive silence lasted only a heartbeat before Gojo Satoru straightened up, and his carefree smile returned instantly, as if the tense confrontation had never happened.
GOJO
(Clapping his hands)
Alright! So basically... you two are "rare items" that wandered into our world! How fun!
Megumi, standing nearby, looked like his headache had just worsened. "Gojo-sensei... this isn't fun..."
GOJO
(Waving him off)
Leave the serious stuff to the higher-ups to stress over, Megumi. A teacher's job is to look after students. Especially "new students" as interesting as these.
He turned back to the pair.
GOJO
Listen... Since you can see "Curses" (that ugly thing earlier)... you aren't "normal people" anymore. This world has rules... and now you've stepped onto the "field."
Chishiya, having just regained his composure... slowly returned to his usual self. His brain began analyzing the new "Game Master" before him.
CHISHIYA
(Voice calm)
The "field," huh... So what are the "rules" of this game?
GOJO
(Grinning wide)
Simple! One: We (Jujutsu Sorcerers) exorcise curses to protect normal people. Two: Normal people must never know about this... And three: Unknown variables like you... are usually "eliminated" immediately to prevent chaos.
Kuina tightened her grip on her baton the moment she heard "eliminated."
GOJO
...But!
He raised a finger.
GOJO
Lucky for you... I found you first... and I don't really like following the boring rules of the old geezers upstairs.
He leaned in again.
GOJO
I have a new "Game" to offer you...
GOJO
Option one: You get eliminated right here, right now...
GOJO
Or... Option two: You come under my "protection" at this Jujutsu High... as "Special Observers." You'll learn about this world... and at the same time... I'll learn about you.
It was an offer with no choice... just like the games in the Borderlands.
CHISHIYA
(Nodding slowly)
...Understood... Sounds like an interesting offer.
He paused for a moment, then asked the most crucial question... the only goal they had right now.
CHISHIYA
Since you said we "aren't from here"... you must know "what" brought us here? That phenomenon... like a tear in dimensions...
Gojo's smile faded slightly...
GOJO
...I don't know...
He answered... but the aura behind the blindfold suggested he knew something.
GOJO
(Looking up at the sky)
But if I had to guess... it's probably related to a massive amount of cursed energy being violently distorted... lately, I've sensed strange "waves" like this happening all over the world more frequently... It's not the work of curses... and not the work of any sorcerer I know...
He looked back at Chishiya...
GOJO
It's "something" outside our rules... and it looks like you two are the first tangible "proof" of what that "wave" actually is.
This was the first clue... and possibly the only one they had.
CHISHIYA
(Smirking)
Deal... We'll play your "Game."
Survival in the Borderlands was over... and being "pieces" in a much larger, more complex board game... had begun.
Interior - Tokyo Jujutsu High - One Week Later
Life as "Special Observers" began for Chishiya and Kuina. It was a strange existence... They were given rooms and food, but were confined to the grounds and always watched from a distance by students (like Megumi).
Kuina spent most of her time training in the dojo. She was trying to figure out how her martial arts skills could be applied to non-physical enemies.
As for Chishiya... he was playing his "Game." He observed... studied the behavior of students and teachers, understood the organizational hierarchy, and learned the basic rules of "Cursed Energy" by eavesdropping and reading whatever basic texts he could find.
One afternoon... Gojo Satoru appeared again without a sound.
GOJO
(Handing over some mochi)
Yo! How's school life? Boring as hell, right? No running for your life every day anymore.
CHISHIYA
(Taking the snack)
Not exactly... just a change in the "game's" format.
GOJO
(Laughing)
True that! Oh... by the way... if you get bored, try not to wander down to the Basement Archive Room. It's just full of boring old records of curse cases... super dusty too. You might get sick.
With that, he walked away whistling, leaving Chishiya standing still... with a knowing smile.
...
That night...
Chishiya and Kuina sneaked out of their rooms. Evading the low-level security guards was suspiciously easy... as if someone had intentionally cleared the path.
They stopped in front of an old wooden door leading to the Basement Archive.
KUINA
Are you sure this is a good idea?
CHISHIYA
He wants us to come in... He's testing us... or maybe... he wants the answer just as much as we do.
They went inside... It was a massive library filled with scrolls and old files stacked to the ceiling. The smell of old paper and dust hung heavy in the air.
Kuina stood guard at the door, while Chishiya began his investigation immediately.
He wasn't looking for the words "dimensional rift." He was looking for what Gojo had mentioned... "records of massive, unidentified abnormal cursed energy events."
He spent hours... opening file after file... until he found the first clue.
It was a report from 80 years ago... describing an event where a village was destroyed by a mysterious energy "hole" that swallowed everything... before spitting out an unknown "monster" that took three Grade 1 sorcerers to exorcise.
He kept searching... and found similar events... 150 years ago... and 400 years ago...
It wasn't a new phenomenon... it had been happening for a long time... but extremely rarely...
CHISHIYA
(Muttering)
It's not a coincidence... There's a pattern...
He laid out a large map of Japan and pinned the locations of all past events.
Kuina walked over... "What is it?"
CHISHIYA
(Pointing to the spots)
Look... Every spot where this happened... it's always near a location of significant jujutsu importance... or a place where an exceptionally strong "Curtain" was erected...
But then he found the final, most crucial clue... In one of the oldest reports, there was a drawing by a surviving witness... They drew a sorcerer they saw in the area before the energy "hole" appeared...
It was a picture of a monk... with stitches across his forehead in a gruesome line.
CHISHIYA
(Staring at the drawing, eyes hard)
Not a natural phenomenon...
He looked up at the pin-filled map... then at the drawing in his hand.
CHISHIYA
...But an experiment... And someone... has been conducting this experiment for hundreds of years.
They had found traces of the true "Game Master"... not the ruler of the Borderlands... but the one behind their arrival here... a mysterious figure playing with the rules of space and time.
Chapter 24: Ghosts in Night City
Summary:
In Night City, the metropolis that never sleeps and teems with lethal technology, Arisu and Usagi must learn to exist as "ghosts"—faceless, traceless, and devoid of cyberware.
With their sights set on infiltrating the Arasaka Corporation, the only way to climb the ladder is to become "Edgerunners"—mercenaries of the underworld. Their debut mission is a suicide run into the hive of the Scavengers, a ruthless gang of human butchers. Surrounded by enemies armed with military-grade cybernetics, the duo from the death lands must prove to their Fixer that having no "chrome" isn't a weakness... it is the ultimate weapon for stealth.
The most silent and dangerous heist has begun. One wrong step means being stripped for parts.
Chapter Text
Interior - Abandoned Megabuilding Apartment - Several Days Later
Empty protein bar wrappers and plastic water bottles were piled in the corner—evidence of their survival over the past few days. They had learned to move silently through this concrete behemoth... dodging gang members and corporate security... learning to be "ghosts" in the neon city.
Usagi used her climbing skills to scale maintenance shafts and external walkways, finding safe routes and scavenging for resources.
Arisu... spent all his time diving into "The Net" via the old Dataterm. He studied everything... culture, slang, economy, and most importantly... the power structure of Night City.
ARISU
(Pointing to a diagram on the screen)
It's more complex than I thought... This city isn't run by a government... It's run by Corporations like Arasaka... And for regular people like us... if we want to stand a chance... there's only one way.
He opened another file... filled with stories and data about mercenaries in this future world.
ARISU
We have to become "Edgerunners"... Independent mercs... People who take dirty jobs from "Fixers", the brokers of the underworld... If we want money, weapons, or intel to fight Arasaka... we need to build "Street Cred" first.
USAGI
(Looking at him with concern)
Are you saying we should become... hitmen?
ARISU
(Shaking his head)
No... We'll be "Puzzle Solvers" for hire... We take jobs that require brains... stealth jobs... jobs others can't do... That's the only way we get close to Arasaka.
The decision was made... They were stepping fully into the underworld.
Exterior - Megabuilding Lower Level Market - Continuous
They descended to the lower levels of the building... where corporate law didn't reach. It was a chaotic black market... filled with illegal weapon stalls, shady "Ripperdoc" clinics installing black-market cyberware, and dangerous-looking people.
Arisu walked straight to an electronic job board. It was filled with small, high-risk, low-pay gigs... jobs that pro Edgerunners wouldn't touch.
He found what he was looking for... "Data Recovery from Scavenger Den."
"Scavengers"... a notorious gang known for kidnapping people to strip them for cyberware parts. A dangerous and disgusting job... but the description specified: "Quiet preferred. No unnecessary noise."
The job led them to a dark bar... and to the Fixer offering the gig... an old man with glowing red cyber-eyes and a worn-out mechanical arm.
FIXER
(Looking them up and down with disdain)
You two? Gonna crack a Scav den? Look at you... no chrome at all... You're gonna get flatlined in five seconds.
ARISU
(Calmly)
Because we have no chrome... we're perfect for this job.
The Fixer raised a mechanical eyebrow.
ARISU
Scavs have scanners... they detect cyberware signals. But us... to their scanners... we're invisible. Like ghosts... We can get in without tripping a single alarm... Your client just wants the data back, right? Not a war.
The Fixer stared at Arisu for a long time... before chuckling darkly.
FIXER
...Kid... you got guts. Or you're stupid. Maybe both.
He tossed a Datashard onto the table.
FIXER
Take it... All the details are in there. Get it done... and you get the eddies and the rep... But if you screw up... don't expect me to scrape your remains off the floor.
Arisu picked up the shard... it was cold and glowed faint blue in his hand.
He and Usagi looked at each other... They weren't lost survivors anymore.
From this moment on... they were Edgerunners... and this was their first gig.
Interior - Megabuilding Basement, Outside Scavenger Den - Night
The air in the forgotten basement levels was freezing and stale... a nauseating mix of old blood and cheap disinfectant. Arisu and Usagi hid behind a crumbling wall, staring at their target entrance... a heavy steel door with a crude skull spray-painted on it.
ARISU
(Whispering, checking data on a portable screen)
According to the schematics... the server room is deep in the back... about 5 or 6 Scavs guarding it... basic cyberware, mostly muscle and brutality.
USAGI
What about the entrance? We can't go through that door quietly.
Arisu pointed up... "We won't use the door."
On the ceiling, a large ventilation shaft had a loose cover. It was high up and looked ignored.
Usagi nodded. She took less than a minute to scale the rusted pipes and crumbling wall, slipping silently into the dark vent. Arisu followed her, struggling a bit more but making it.
They crawled through the cramped, dusty duct... until they reached a grate overlooking the den.
It was a converted illegal clinic... stained operating tables, surgical tools hanging haphazardly, and bodies covered in sheets... Two Scavs were sitting in chairs, jacked into "Braindances", completely checked out from reality.
Usagi removed the grate silently... and dropped into the shadows behind them like a wildcat.
Before they could react... Usagi closed the distance. She put one in a sleeper hold and swept the leg of the other, knocking him out cold against the floor in under three seconds... Fast, silent, efficient.
Arisu dropped down... "Nice work."
They moved deeper... encountering another Scav patrolling. Usagi hid behind a corner... and when he passed, she used a judo throw to slam him onto the floor, knocking him out instantly.
They reached the server room...
Arisu jacked the device from the Fixer into the port... The screen showed a progress bar moving painfully slow.
"15%... 27%..."
Suddenly... heavy footsteps echoed from the corridor!
Usagi rushed to guard the door... Two more Scavs were approaching!
SCAV #1
Hey! Why's it so quiet over there?
Usagi looked at Arisu... download at "78%".
She made a snap decision. She grabbed a metal tray nearby and hurled it down the opposite hallway with all her strength!
CLANG!!!
The loud noise made the Scavs jump and turn. "What the fuck was that!?"
"99%... Download Complete!"
Arisu yanked the device... "Usagi! Let's go!"
The two sprinted back to the vent they came from... vanishing into the darkness... leaving the remaining Scavs to find only their unconscious buddies and empty air.
...
They walked back to the Fixer at the bar... and placed the Datashard on the table.
The Fixer plugged it in to check... his cyber-eyes flickered rapidly... before he looked up at them with a changed expression... Surprise... and respect.
FIXER
...Nova... You actually did it... Clean... No bodies.
He transferred a sum of "Eddies" to Arisu's temporary account. It wasn't much money... but for them... it was everything.
FIXER
You two have "the touch"... I like it... If I have another job for "ghosts" like you... I'll be in touch.
Arisu nodded... He and Usagi walked out of the bar... In their hands were the first resources and "Street Cred" they had earned in this world.
Arisu looked up at Arasaka Tower glowing in the distance...
This was just the first step... on a very long road.
Chapter 25: New Game, New Rules
Summary:
In the world of Jujutsu Sorcery... Chishiya and Kuina receive a lethal invitation from Gojo Satoru to enter the "Culling Game"—a massacre that has transformed Japan into a living hell.
Their objective extends beyond mere survival against bloodthirsty players and Cursed Spirits. They must hunt down the true "Game Master"—Kenjaku, the mastermind behind the dimensional rift! Chishiya takes the lead on analysis, scanning for hidden surveillance, while Kuina acts as the blade that safeguards the brain.
Meanwhile, back in Night City... Arisu and Usagi have fully evolved into "Ghosts" of the underground. Their silent, ingenious data heists have begun to earn them a reputation among the local Fixers.
Finally, a golden opportunity arises: a contract to investigate a low-level Arasaka executive involved in embezzlement. This job might be their only ticket to uncovering the secrets of the "Dimensional Rift" hidden deep within the towering Arasaka Tower!
Chapter Text
Another Dimension. Interior - Reception Room at Jujutsu High - One Week Later
Chishiya and Kuina sat across from Gojo Satoru in a room that appeared simple but carried an underlying aura of intimidation. Tea and snacks were placed on the table... as if this were just a casual chat.
But Chishiya knew better... This was an "evaluation."
GOJO
(Sipping tea)
So? It's been a week... Starting to understand the "rules" of this world a little better?
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
I understand enough... This world has "players" who are unbelievably strong... and "higher-ups" who are just as boring as the ones in my old world.
Gojo laughed out loud... He liked that answer.
GOJO
And what about your little field trip to the Archive Room? Find anything interesting?
His words made Kuina flinch slightly, but Chishiya remained calm... He already knew their actions had been watched by this man the entire time.
CHISHIYA
(Putting down his tea)
We did... found a very interesting "pattern"... The dimensional rift phenomenon that brought us here... it's not new... and it doesn't seem natural... It's the result of an "experiment" by someone, ongoing for hundreds of years.
He stared directly at Gojo.
CHISHIYA
And I bet... that person... is the same one you're hunting right now, isn't it? The man with stitches on his forehead.
Gojo paused for a moment... his smile faded slightly.
GOJO
...You really are as sharp as I thought... Quick on the uptake.
He leaned back in his chair... his expression turning serious.
GOJO
Yes... That man is the root of almost every problem in the Jujutsu world right now... His name is Kenjaku... An ancient sorcerer who has been brain-hopping bodies for a thousand years... My theory is... his experiments trying to break the boundaries of cursed energy... have made the "walls" between dimensions brittle... and you two are the "side effects" that slipped through.
Finally... they had a name for their invisible enemy.
GOJO
Kenjaku is about to start his biggest "Game" yet... The Culling Game... A battle royale intended to turn Japan into a massive cursed energy field... And naturally... he will be there.
He looked at Chishiya...
GOJO
The higher-ups are watching me closely... making it hard for me to move freely... But you two... are "variables" completely outside the rules... No one knows you... No one can predict you...
CHISHIYA
(Raising an eyebrow)
...Is this an offer... or an order?
GOJO
(Grinning)
It's an "invitation"... to join the most exciting "Game" imaginable... If you want answers about the dimensions... and maybe a way home... confronting Kenjaku is the only path...
He slid a card across the table to Chishiya... "Play... or fold?"
Chishiya looked at Kuina... She didn't look pleased, but she gave him a small nod.
Chishiya turned back to Gojo... with that familiar smirk.
CHISHIYA
Of course... I'm playing.
Exterior - Outskirts of Tokyo, Before the "Curtain" - Day
Chishiya and Kuina stood before a pitch-black "Curtain" with no visible boundaries. This was the entrance to Tokyo No. 1 Colony... one of the arenas for the Culling Game.
Gojo Satoru stood beside them, along with Megumi who looked visibly uncomfortable.
GOJO
(Smiling cheerfully)
Alright! Time to enter the game! The rules I explained... simple, right? Kill each other, collect points, don't kill civilians, blah blah blah...
KUINA
(Arms crossed, eyeing the Curtain mistrustfully)
So how do we get in? We weren't invited.
GOJO
That's the fun part! Kenjaku's rules have a loophole... He made a rule that "Invited players must participate," but he didn't make a rule saying "Uninvited people can't enter"... You just have to "voluntarily" walk in.
CHISHIYA
(Looking at Gojo)
And our "Game"? What is our objective? Collect points? Or just survive?
GOJO
(Expression turning slightly serious)
Your objective is twofold... One: Survive... It's crawling with ancient sorcerers who've been reincarnated and point-hungry maniacs... They are way more dangerous than your "King of Spades."
He paused...
GOJO
Two: Find Kenjaku... That guy is the real "Game Master"... He must be watching this game from somewhere... maybe through a hidden "Curse" or "Shikigami"... Your job, Chishiya... is to analyze this "Game"... and figure out where the "camera" Kenjaku is using to watch... is hidden.
MEGUMI
(Interjecting)
Gojo-sensei... this is too risky. They have no cursed energy... If they encounter a high-grade player...
KUINA
(Turning to Megumi)
Don't worry about that... We're used to fighting "monsters."
She turned to Chishiya... "Ready? Mr. Strategist."
Chishiya smiled... his eyes gleaming...
CHISHIYA
How long has it been... since I played a game with my life on the line...
CHISHIYA
...Fun indeed.
He was the first to step forward... his body vanishing into the black curtain.
Kuina sighed... and followed close behind.
They had returned to the "Borderlands" once again... but this time... their enemies were magic and curses.
Another Dimension. Interior - Lobby of a Small Corporate Office (Corpo Hub) - Late Night
This was their third gig... and it was noticeably harder.
Objective: Not stealing data... but hacking into the local server of an insurance company rivaling "Arasaka" (a new client of the Fixer) to modify certain policies without detection.
Arisu sat in a stolen van parked in a dark alley a block away. His screen was filled with code and building schematics. He was communicating with Usagi via a small transceiver he had modified.
ARISU
(Whispering into the mic)
Okay, Usagi... The drone on the mezzanine is moving toward the east wing... Now... You have 45 seconds to cross the main atrium.
Interior - Main Atrium (Lobby)
Usagi, dressed in dark tactical gear with her face covered, moved like a shadow.
She wasn't running on the floor... she was climbing across a massive art sculpture hanging from the atrium ceiling!
She moved fluidly and silently from one steel frame to another... 15 meters above the ground... right over the heads of the guards patrolling below, completely unnoticed.
ARISU (O.S.)
Wait... Shit... There's a security drone not on the schematics! It's heading your way!
Usagi froze... The red scanner light of the drone was sweeping closer...
She had nowhere to run... but she noticed a fire sprinkler head right above her.
Usagi pulled something from her pocket... a small electric lighter she had scavenged. She held it close to the thermal sensor of the sprinkler...
Hiss!!!
Chemical fire suppressant sprayed out locally! It didn't trigger a loud alarm... but created a massive curtain of mist.
The drone flew right into the mist... and shorted out instantly! It crashed to the floor with a loud CRASH!
The guard below spun around! "What the fuck was that!?"
ARISU (O.S.)
Bad! He's alerted! Usagi! Get to the server room now! I'll create a distraction!
Arisu hammered his keyboard... He commanded every elevator in the building to start moving simultaneously and triggered a fake fire alarm on the top floor.
Chaos ensued! The guard rushed to the control panel...
Usagi used that moment to drop from the ceiling... slip into the server room... jack Arisu's shard in...
Uploading... 30%... 70%... Complete!
She yanked the shard and escaped back through the ventilation shaft... vanishing before the guard even realized what had happened.
...
Exterior - Fixer’s Bar - One Hour Later
The Fixer stared at the data shard reported as "Job Complete." His mechanical eyes bore into Arisu.
FIXER
...You two... aren't normal Edgerunners... You're real "ghosts"... You're building Street Cred faster than I thought.
He leaned forward...
FIXER
I have a big gig... Very big... and very dirty... It's not a B&E... It's an "investigation"... Concerning a low-level executive at "Arasaka" who seems to be "embezzling" something...
Arisu and Usagi looked at each other... their hearts pounding.
FIXER
This job is lethal... But if you pull it off... you'll get closer to that "Tower"... than anyone ever dreams of.
This was what they had been waiting for... A chance to hack into the heart of the mystery.
Chapter 26: A Glitch in the System
Summary:
Enter the battlefield: Tokyo Colony No. 1!
Chishiya and Kuina find themselves caught in a crossfire of bullets and Cursed Energy. Conventional combat skills are rendered nearly useless against players capable of magically enhancing their physical prowess. But for Chishiya... this is no obstacle. Why? Because they are the "Bugs" of the system—undetectable anomalies with zero Cursed Energy!
The game of "Hide, Seek, and Manipulate" begins. Their first target is a high school student with a broken leg named Kenta. The interrogation leads to the discovery of a Kogane—the administrative Shikigami—which inadvertently registers them as official players!
Upon realizing they have fallen into Gojo’s trap, Chishiya actually smiles... for he has found a backdoor to the game's "Core." The goal isn't to fight for points; it is to "hack" the system through other players and drag Kenjaku out of the shadows!
Chapter Text
Exterior - Tokyo No. 1 Colony (Shinjuku) - Continuous
The moment they stepped through the "Curtain," the atmosphere changed drastically.
It wasn't the eerie emptiness of the Borderlands. Quite the opposite... this place was filled with the fresh scars of battle. Skyscrapers bore massive gashes as if struck by giants. Roads were cratered. In the distance... explosions and screams echoed sporadically.
KUINA
(Standing still, scanning the surroundings)
This place... it's different... The air feels... heavy.
CHISHIYA
(Looking up at the sky)
Naturally... because this isn't a game testing psychology... This is a battlefield... The rules are much simpler... Kill or be killed.
He pointed to a collapsed building.
CHISHIYA
No lasers... no invisible boundaries... That "Curtain" is the boundary... and the "Players" are the trap.
UNKNOWN MAN
FOUND YOOOOUUUUU!!!
A shout erupted from behind! A man with tattoos covering his face, wielding a large steel pipe coated in dark purple energy, leaped from behind a wrecked bus!
UNKNOWN MAN
MY ONE POINT!!!
Kuina reacted instantly! She spun around into a defensive stance... using her steel baton to block the attack!
CLANG!!!
The sound of metal clashing rang out!
But the result... made Kuina’s eyes widen in shock!
The impact was far heavier than she anticipated! The baton vibrated violently in her hands, nearly flying out of her grip. Her body was knocked back several steps.
KUINA
(Muttering)
...Damn... what kind of strength is this...
UNKNOWN MAN
(Laughing maniacally)
HAHAHA! Weak as ants! You guys have no cursed energy at all!
He raised the pipe again... but this time... Chishiya moved.
CHISHIYA
(Shouting)
Kuina! Your right! Extinguisher!
Kuina spotted a red fire extinguisher mounted on a nearby wall... She understood Chishiya’s plan instantly.
She didn't charge in to fight... instead, she ran backward... luring the man into range.
UNKNOWN MAN
Running away!?
The man chased without thinking.
As he ran past the pillar where Chishiya was hiding... Chishiya rolled out and kicked the back of his knee hard!
It was a surprise attack... The man stumbled...
And that was the opening Kuina was waiting for!
She didn't attack the man... but swung her baton with full force at the nozzle of the fire extinguisher!
HISS!!! FWOOOOSH!!!
Freezing carbon dioxide sprayed out in a thick white cloud! It enveloped the man and the surrounding area, blinding everything in an instant!
UNKNOWN MAN
ARGH! COLD! WHAT THE HELL IS THIS!
CHISHIYA
(Grabbing Kuina’s hand)
Go!
The two sprinted away into a nearby building... leaving the man raging blindly in the smoke.
...
They hid in a dark office on an upper floor... listening to the roars fading into the distance.
KUINA
(Panting, looking at her trembling hands)
Back there... I blocked with everything I had... but his strength... it was supernatural...
CHISHIYA
(Staring out the window, expression serious)
"Cursed Energy"... like Gojo said... It reinforces the body... Your martial arts won't be fully effective against these people.
He turned back to her... his eyes gleaming again.
CHISHIYA
In this game... the rules have changed... We aren't strong players... We aren't even players... We are "Bugs" in the system... "Ghosts" with no energy for them to detect.
KUINA
So what do we do? We can't fight anyone.
CHISHIYA
(Smirking)
So we don't fight... We play the game we're good at... The game of hide and seek... and "Manipulation."
He pointed to the dissipating smoke below.
CHISHIYA
Our first objective... is "Information"... We need to find the weakest player... someone terrified... and "interrogate" them...
Chishiya and Kuina moved through the ruins quieter than ever. They were "ghosts" as Chishiya claimed... undetectable by cursed energy sensing, with stealth skills honed in death games.
They avoided the streets... moving through service corridors, vents, and the wreckage connecting buildings.
Kuina utilized her martial arts in a new way... not for combat... but for traversal. She climbed across gaps between crumbled buildings agilely and used her baton to vault over unstable ground silently.
As for Chishiya... he was "reading" the board.
They reached the 15th floor of a building... A large crack in the wall offered a panoramic view of the street below.
CHISHIYA
(Whispering, pointing down)
...Look there...
Below... a small skirmish was unfolding. A teenage boy, looking like a high school student, was desperately trying to run away... while a burly man in an old kimono walked after him unhurriedly.
KIMONO MAN
Run... keep running... The more you run... the sweeter your points become!
The man swung a wooden sword coated in cursed energy at the ground... sending a shockwave that cracked the concrete. The boy was blown back, slamming hard into a wall.
BOY
ARGH!
The boy lay on the ground... injured and crying in fear.
The kimono man laughed with satisfaction... but instead of killing the boy... he turned and walked away.
KIMONO MAN
Too weak... Killing you now would ruin the taste... I'll go find some livelier prey.
He vanished into an alley... leaving the injured, terrified boy alone.
KUINA
He... let him go?
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
Found him... The "Player" we need.
The two moved downstairs rapidly...
...
The boy was trying to prop himself up... his leg was clearly broken. "Help... someone... please help me..."
Suddenly... he felt a presence... he turned sharply...
Chishiya and Kuina stood there... emerging from the shadows without him noticing at all.
BOY
"Gah! W... Who are you!" The boy raised his arms defensively. "Don't kill me! I have no points!"
Kuina stood guard behind... while Chishiya walked slowly toward the boy... He crouched down in front of him... with the kindest smile... that somehow looked incredibly unsettling.
CHISHIYA
(Voice soft)
Don't be afraid... We aren't like that guy... We aren't here for "points"...
The boy looked at him mistrustfully. "T... Then what do you want?"
Chishiya tilted his head slightly... his eyes gleaming.
CHISHIYA
We just... want to "talk"...
CHISHIYA
...Tell us... Who is this "Kenjaku"?
CHISHIYA
...And the real "Rules" of this game... how do they actually work?
The "Interrogation"... Chishiya style... had begun.
The boy trembled with fear and pain. He stared at Chishiya... a smiling man who felt far more terrifying than the kimono guy.
BOY
(Stuttering)
K... Kenjaku? I... I don't know who that is! I don't know anything! I was just pulled in here!
CHISHIYA
(Still smiling)
Relax... Doesn't mean you don't know... just means you don't know that you know...
He squatted down.
CHISHIYA
Alright... let's start with something simple... This "Game"... how does it know you're alive? How does it know you got "Points"?
The boy paused... The question was strange.
BOY
W... Well... It just knows...
CHISHIYA
What is "It"?
The boy hesitated... before pointing to the empty air beside him...
Suddenly... a strange little creature resembling a jellyfish with eyes appeared. It floated still in the air... It was a "Kogane."
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Player: Sato Kenta. 0 Points.]
Kuina’s eyes widened... "What the hell is that..."
But Chishiya... his eyes flashed. He was staring at the "Kogane" like a scientist discovering a new species.
CHISHIYA
(Muttering)
...Found it...
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Detected 2 Non-Players... Processing...]
CHISHIYA
(Looking at the Kogane instantly, smile widening)
Oh? You detect us too? Interesting... So what happens now? Gonna eliminate us?
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Rule No. 9: Non-players who voluntarily enter a colony are immediately counted as players... Registering new players...]
CHISHIYA & KUINA
(Exchanging looks)
CHISHIYA
...Gojo... that bastard... He tricked us...
He didn't intend to "send" them in... He intended to "throw" them into the game as new players from the start!
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Registration Complete. Player: Chishiya Shuntaro. 0 Points. Player: Kuina Hikari. 0 Points. Enjoy the Culling Game.]
The injured boy went pale... "N... No way... You... You guys are stuck in here too!"
Kuina cursed under her breath... The situation just got worse... but Chishiya chuckled low in his throat.
CHISHIYA
(Looking at the Kogane)
...This... just got even more fun...
He turned back to the boy named Kenta.
CHISHIYA
Alright, Kenta-kun... Looks like we're on the "Same Team" now... And since we're players... we have to help each other, right?
He placed a hand gently on Kenta's shoulder.
CHISHIYA
Your leg looks bad... You can't run from anyone anymore... If we leave you here... you're dead.
Kenta teared up... "Please... don't leave me..."
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
Of course... We won't leave you... If you agree to "Work" for us...
He pointed at the floating "Kogane."
CHISHIYA
That thing... It's the "Window" of the game... It's a "Terminal"... Gojo told me to find Kenjaku's "camera"... but he was wrong... Kenjaku isn't just "watching"... He's "processing" all of us through this system...
He stared at Kenta with cold, calculating eyes.
CHISHIYA
...And if it's a "System"... it has "Loopholes"...
His plan had formed... He didn't need to run... He didn't need to fight...
He just needed to "Hack" this game... using other players as his tools.
Chapter 27: Loopholes and Rifts
Summary:
The revelation from Kogane leads Chishiya to uncover the greatest loophole within the "Culling Game." The key lies in Rule No. 8: 100 points is the price to "add a new rule."
With escape off the table and a frontal assault tantamount to suicide, Chishiya and Kuina decide to flip the script—transitioning from prey to "Shadow Assassins." Exploiting the tactical advantage of having "Zero Cursed Energy," they hunt players one by one, amassing blood-soaked points for a single purpose... to rewrite the rules of this game!
Meanwhile, on the other side of the universe... following a battle that cost everything, the lifeless chassis of Metal Sonic lies dormant amidst the ruins. Suddenly, it is consumed by a dimensional rift—torn open by the backlash of its own final attack!
Where will fate cast this mindless killing machine? And into whose hands will this ultimate "weapon" fall?
Chapter Text
Interior - Ruined Convenience Store in the Culling Game Colony - Continuous
Kuina expertly tore a strip from her own shirt and wrapped it tightly around Kenta's broken leg to act as a makeshift splint. They had moved to hide in the storage room behind the destroyed convenience store. It was dark and smelled musty, but it was safe from prying eyes.
Kenta was still trembling, but the pain from his injury seemed less intense than the fear he felt towards Chishiya.
CHISHIYA
(Squatting opposite Kenta, smiling)
Alright, Kenta-kun... Simple deal... We will take you to the safest spot we can find... We will find you food and water... In exchange, you will be our "Assistant" in this little experiment.
KENTA
(Voice shaking)
Ex... experiment?
Chishiya pointed to Kenta’s "Kogane," which was still floating silently beside him.
CHISHIYA
Yes... I want to know what your little "friend" knows.
He began the system "Interrogation" immediately.
CHISHIYA
Ask it... "What is a Player?"
KENTA
(Looking at Chishiya confusedly, then turning to ask Kogane)
Uh... What is a "Player"?
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[A Player is an individual registered in the Culling Game system and possesses their own Kogane.]
CHISHIYA
(Nodding)
Okay... Next question... "Can I transfer points to another player?"
KENTA
Can I transfer points?
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Rule No. 3: Players can transfer points to other players. Requires 1 point as a transaction fee.]
CHISHIYA
...Interesting... Now ask, "Who is Kenjaku?"
KENTA
Who is Kenjaku?
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[...Cannot provide information...]
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
Found it... The first "Wall."
He paced around the storage room thoughtfully...
CHISHIYA
It's not an AI with free will... It's a database with rigid rules... It answers questions about "Rules," but won't answer questions about the "Creator."
He turned back... his eyes gleaming.
CHISHIYA
Kenta-kun... Ask the final question... The most important one...
CHISHIYA
...Ask it... "How can I add a new rule?"
Kenta’s eyes widened... "Huh? Add a rule? How is that possible!"
KUINA
(Leaning against the wall, arms crossed)
Just ask it.
Kenta swallowed hard... before turning to ask Kogane timidly.
KENTA
Uh... Kogane... How... How can I add a new rule to the game?
Silence filled the room... Kogane floated still for a moment... before answering.
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Rule No. 8: Players can use 100 points to negotiate with the Game Master and add 1 new rule to the Culling Game.]
A smile... the widest and creepiest smile yet... appeared on Chishiya Shuntaro’s face.
He found it...
He found the "Loophole" he was looking for... It wasn't a hack... It was a "Feature" of the game!
CHISHIYA
(Chuckling low in his throat)
...I get it now...
CHISHIYA
Kenjaku... that guy... didn't just build a death game... He built a game that can "Evolve" itself... driven by the desires of the players...
He turned to Kuina... his eyes filled with a reckless plan.
CHISHIYA
Our objective has changed, Kuina... We won't run... We won't hide...
CHISHIYA
...But we will "Hunt."
CHISHIYA
...We will hunt... until we get 100 points...
CHISHIYA
...And then we... will be the ones to "Set the Rules" of this game ourselves.
Kenta looked at Chishiya with eyes full of terror and confusion. "100 points?! ...Where are you going to get points from! You guys can't fight anyone!"
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
That's the fun part.
He turned to Kuina, who was still leaning against the wall with a serious expression.
CHISHIYA
Kuina... You and I... We have the biggest "Advantage" in this game... An advantage that even Gojo probably didn't foresee.
KUINA
(Raising an eyebrow)
You mean the fact that we're too weak to fight anyone?
CHISHIYA
(Chuckling softly)
No... I mean the fact that we "Don't Exist."
He stood up and walked to the shattered window.
CHISHIYA
In this world... everyone relies on "Cursed Energy"... They detect each other through energy... But us... we don't have a speck of that energy... To them... we are like stones... like air... We are the perfect "Blind Spot."
He turned back... his eyes cold.
CHISHIYA
We won't "Hunt"... We will be "Assassins"... We won't fight head-on... We will assassinate.
KUINA
(Expression changing)
...You want me to... kill people?
CHISHIYA
(Walking closer)
This isn't the "Ten of Hearts" game testing psychology anymore, Kuina... This is a "Spades" game on a massive scale... The rules are simple... Kill 100 people... or we stay stuck here... waiting for Kenjaku to start his crazy plan... or waiting for that damn rift to appear and suck us into another hellhole.
He looked deep into her eyes.
CHISHIYA
You have a choice... Be the "Prey" waiting to die... or be the "Hunter" determining your own fate.
Kuina gripped her baton tightly... Hesitation was clear on her face... before it transformed into cold determination... She was a survivor of the Borderlands... She had always chosen her own path.
KUINA
(Nodding)
...Understood... So how do we start?
CHISHIYA
(Smiling with satisfaction)
Start by... finding the easiest prey first.
He turned to Kenta, who was trembling. "Kenta-kun... You don't want to die, right? So help guide us... Take us to other players... People like you... People who are "Hiding.""
Kenta went pale... He realized he had just become "Bait."
...
One Hour Later...
They were hiding in the ruins of a parking garage... Kenta (carried by Kuina) was being used as a silent hostage.
Below... in the basement of the building... two other players were building a small fire. They looked like university students... slightly injured... and visibly terrified. They had only 1 point each from killing weak players.
CHISHIYA
(Whispering)
Those two... Kuina... You can handle them.
Kuina took a deep breath... She left her baton with Chishiya... and picked up a military knife they had scavenged.
She moved...
Like a shadow... Like the wind...
She stepped into the darkness with no footsteps... no energy to detect...
The two were still arguing about food... completely unaware that death was standing right behind them...
SLASH! SLASH!
The sounds were short and decisive...
Kuina stood still amidst the two lifeless bodies... Warm blood splattered on her face... Her hands were still shaking... but the job was done.
Her Kogane appeared.
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Gained 10 Points from eliminating players... Total Points: 10 Points.]
Chishiya walked down to join her... He looked at the work with indifferent eyes.
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
Very good... Kuina...
CHISHIYA
...Just 90 points to go.
Another Dimension. Ruins of a Metropolis on a Desolate Planet - Night
True silence returned to the desolate planet for the first time since the battle began. A whistling wind blew through twisted steel beams, drowning out the last sparks sputtering from Metal Sonic’s body, which now lay still like a broken metal statue.
It lay on its back in a shallow crater caused by the impact. The red eyes that once burned bright were now pitch black. Its twisted arm pointed towards the sky where twin moons shone coldly. It was a monument to a victory paid for with its own demise.
Deep within its heavily damaged main processor...
[METAL SONIC PROCESSOR LOG]
> [STATUS: EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN]
> [ENERGY: 0.04% ... CRITICAL]
> [REPAIR PROTOCOL FAILED... INSUFFICIENT ENERGY]
> [PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: ... ... ... SURVIVE]
> [...ENTERING FULL HIBERNATION...]
>
Every system went dark. Only the final will preserved in the most secure core memory remained... waiting for the day it would be awakened again, no matter how long it took.
Five minutes passed... Ten minutes...
A chilling calm blanketed the area. But then... the air began to tremble again.
It wasn't the terrifying tremor of The Solver. Not the violent energy of Metal Sonic. But a pure, clean vibration... like a high-frequency musical note rising until it was almost beyond perception.
About ten meters above Metal Sonic’s motionless body...
CRACK...
Reality itself began to fracture. Not a dark rift like The Solver’s, but a blinding white crack. Like lightning frozen in mid-air. The crack expanded rapidly, revealing what was inside... not a void, but a dimension swirling with millions of indescribable colors.
It was the consequence of Metal Sonic’s final attack... The Logic Spear it fired didn't just sever The Solver, but "Pierced" the barrier of reality itself.
A Dimensional Rift was born.
As soon as it opened wide enough, a massive gravitational pull began to radiate. Dust and small rocks were instantly sucked into the white light. The gentle breeze turned into a vortex spiraling into the heart of the rift.
Metal Sonic’s heavy frame began to move. Not by its own power, but being "Dragged" across the ground. Its broken metal scrapings against the concrete created an eerie sound.
Its broken arm snagged on a rebar jutting out from the ruins. Its body halted for a moment, resisting the invisible pull like an anchor.
The rift vibrated violently. The pull doubled!
CLANG!!!
The rebar holding it... snapped.
In the next split second, Metal Sonic’s lifeless body was yanked off the ground. It spun helplessly in the air like a piece of space junk, pulled into the blinding light at the center of the storm...
The metallic blue figure vanished into the distorted dimension...
FWOOP!
The moment its body disappeared inside, the dimensional rift contracted and snapped shut in the blink of an eye. Leaving only a final echo resonating in the air before everything fell silent once more.
On this desolate planet... no trace remained. Neither predator... nor prey.
Chapter 28: False Paradise
Summary:
When "powerlessness" becomes the ultimate weapon... Chishiya and Kuina have transformed the pitch-black subway tunnels into an execution ground.
They have discovered that their existence as formless "ghosts" renders them invisible to both players and Cursed Spirits alike. The assassination of five unfortunate victims has yielded a massive amount of points... but it comes at the price of their humanity, chipping away piece by piece.
However, for Chishiya... hunting them down one by one is far too inefficient.
A new, colder plan is born. He will no longer be a hunter chasing prey. Instead, he will become the "Creator" of a False Paradise—a sanctuary stocked with food, water, and safety, designed to lure weak players into his trap of their own volition.
A "New Beach" is about to be erected amidst the darkness of the Jujutsu world... with Chishiya reigning as its throne-less king!
Chapter Text
Exterior - Rooftop of a Building in the Culling Game Colony - Night
The cold night wind swept across the empty rooftop. Kuina carried Kenta (whose leg was still splinted) and set him down on the ground carefully, but without sympathy. She walked to the edge of the roof, cleaning her bloodied knife with a scrap of cloth she found... Her face was impassive... trying to process what she had just done.
Chishiya stood on the opposite edge... looking down at the vast "game board" below.
CHISHIYA
(Speaking softly to himself)
10 points... Need to do this 9 more times... It's too slow.
He turned back to Kenta, who was shivering from cold and fear.
CHISHIYA
Kenta-kun... You're a "Player" who hides... So you must know where other players like you... where they would go to hide.
KENTA
(Voice shaking)
I... I don't know... I was just...
CHISHIYA
(Walking closer, squatting down)
Don't lie... When people are terrified, they think alike... Where do they go? Places with thick walls? Places with leftover food? Or places underground?
Kenta trembled... He was being cornered intellectually.
KENTA
...S... Shinjuku Subway Station... It's deep... lots of exits... and... probably has drinking water...
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
...Very good...
BOOOOOOOOM!!!
A massive explosion roared from two streets over!
A bright purple flash illuminated the night! Nearby buildings shook. Kuina and Kenta instinctively ducked in panic... Only Chishiya remained standing still... observing.
Below... the real battle of this world was taking place.
Two Jujutsu Sorcerers were clashing fiercely. One conjured massive ice spears from thin air, launching them like missiles... The other reinforced their speed with cursed energy, moving like a lightning bolt...
The fight ended quickly and brutally... The ice spear user was closed in on by the faster opponent... and decapitated with a cursed energy-imbued katana.
The winner's "Kogane" appeared.
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Gained 5 Points from eliminating player... Total Points: 52 Points.]
The winner (the swordsman) stood panting in the middle of the street... before freezing... and looking up... as if "Sniffing" the air.
He scanned the buildings... and his gaze stopped... directly where Chishiya and the others stood!
Kenta nearly stopped breathing...
The man narrowed his eyes... He felt a "gaze" watching him... but he sensed absolutely zero "Cursed Energy."
He cursed in frustration... "Must be seeing things..." ...before turning and walking away to find his next prey.
Kuina exhaled in relief...
Chishiya turned back from the edge... His face was void of any smile... replaced by a profound coldness.
CHISHIYA
(Speaking to Kuina)
See that?... That is a real "Player"... That is someone we will never fight, under any circumstances.
He walked back to Kenta...
CHISHIYA
But luckily... most "Players" in this game... aren't like that...
He tapped Kenta's injured leg lightly, making the boy flinch violently.
CHISHIYA
Most... are just like you... Kenta-kun...
CHISHIYA
...Kuina... let's go... Next target... Subway Station.
The darkness of the subway entrance was terrifying. The air was cold and damp. The smell of mold and sewage drifted up to meet them.
Kuina carried Kenta on her back effortlessly. Even though his constant shivering was annoying, he was the best "compass" they had right now.
KENTA
(Voice shaking)
I... I'm not sure... It's so dark here... They say... "Curses"... like places like this...
CHISHIYA
(Walking in front, using a small flashlight)
Exactly because it's dark and scary... it's the best hiding spot for people who are "afraid."
They walked down the motionless escalators... deeper into the darkness...
Suddenly... Kuina stopped.
Skitter... Skitter...
Something was crawling on the ceiling in the shadows...
Chishiya shone his flashlight up...
What they saw was a "Curse" resembling a giant centipede, but with dozens of distorted human faces attached to its body... It was crawling past, ignoring them.
KENTA
(Barely breathing)
A... A monster...
KUINA
(Raising her baton)
Chishiya...
CHISHIYA
(Raising a hand to stop her)
...Shhh...
He stared at it calmly... The curse crawled right past them... and vanished into a vent on the other side.
CHISHIYA
(Muttering)
...It can't see us...
KUINA
What?
CHISHIYA
(Turning to smile)
It can't "Feel" us... Gojo said curses are attracted to cursed energy born from negative emotions... But it seems if we have "Zero" cursed energy as a baseline... as long as we don't project "Fear" blatantly... we are practically air to them.
He glanced at the trembling Kenta. "Almost" air, anyway.
This was their second advantage... and the most crucial one.
They were not only invisible to "Players"... but invisible to the "Monsters" of the arena as well.
CHISHIYA
Let's keep moving... This is the perfect "Hunting Ground" for us.
...
They walked deep into the platform area... There were traces of temporary shelters... but they had been abandoned.
KENTA
(Pointing to a dark tunnel)
T... That way... There's an old maintenance tunnel... People running away... usually gather there...
Chishiya nodded to Kuina... She led the way into the tunnel silently.
Not long after... they saw a flicker of light ahead...
It was the light from a small battery lantern... surrounded by 4-5 huddled figures... hugging their knees in fear... Some had minor injuries... some were crying silently...
They were the weakest group of players... fleeing the brutality above... seeking refuge in the darkness...
Unaware that the darkness... had brought the true "Predator" right to them.
Chishiya put a finger to his lips... signaling Kenta to be quiet.
He turned and nodded to Kuina.
Kuina set Kenta down gently... She drew her knife again... Her eyes were empty...
She wasn't going to kill "People"...
She was just going to collect "Points."
Her figure vanished into the darkness beyond the lantern light...
Kenta was left in the shadows... All he could do was watch...
The flickering lantern illuminated the faces of the 5 refugees... They were sharing the last protein bar...
"I heard something..." one man said...
But before he could turn... Kuina burst out from the darkness opposite him.
It wasn't a fight... it was an execution.
She was the system's "Blind Spot"... No energy to detect... No footsteps until it was too late...
SLASH!
The knife slit the throat of the first guard.
"Ghk!?"
The girl sitting next to him widened her eyes... but before she could scream... the knife tip pierced her heart from behind... Kuina used her body as a shield while moving to the next target.
Slash... Thud... Drop...
It was over in less than ten seconds...
The final sound was the lantern being knocked over... The light snuffed out... leaving only darkness... and Kuina’s heavy breathing.
Chishiya walked out of the shadows calmly... He turned on his small flashlight, illuminating the scene.
Kuina stood amidst the five bodies... She was covered in blood... The hand holding the knife trembled uncontrollably... but her face remained impassive.
Her "Kogane" flashed.
KOGANE (ELECTRONIC VOICE)
[Gained 50 Points from eliminating 5 players... Total Points: 60 Points.]
In the silence... only sobbing could be heard...
Kenta, left in the shadows... was crying in despair.
KENTA
(Voice cracking)
...Monsters... You guys are just... monsters... No different from those guys up there...
Kuina flinched slightly at those words... She turned her back to the flashlight beam... hiding her face in the dark.
Chishiya... ignored Kenta’s words completely. He was deep in his own thoughts.
CHISHIYA
(Muttering)
60 points... 40 more... Hunting like this is too slow... and too risky...
He walked around the victims' makeshift shelter... observing the meager food supplies and water they had hoarded.
CHISHIYA
(Turning to Kuina)
We're doing it wrong... Being a "Hunter"... is tiring.
KUINA
(Voice raspy)
...So what now?
Chishiya smiled... a smile that made Kenta stop crying out of sheer terror.
CHISHIYA
We won't be "Hunters"... We will be a "Trap."
He walked back to Kenta... and patted the boy's cheek gently.
CHISHIYA
In my old world... there was a game... The "Jack of Hearts"... It was a game where the smartest player... created a "False Paradise"... and let the terrified prey... walk into their own death.
He gestured around the dark tunnel.
CHISHIYA
We will do that... here... We will build a "Sanctuary" for weak players... A place with food... water... and "Safety."
KENTA
(Confused)
W... What for?
CHISHIYA
(Smiling)
So that we... can "Protect" them... in exchange for all the "Points" they have... Or if they don't have any... we will let them "Borrow"...
CHISHIYA
...And if they refuse to pay back...
He glanced at Kuina, who was wiping blood off her knife...
CHISHIYA
...We simply... "Repossess Assets."
Chapter 29: Kenjaku’s Cast Net & The Upper Rank Two
Summary:
Chishiya discovers a mysterious piece of "technology" on the corpse of a fallen victim. It is definitive proof that Kenjaku’s experiments are not merely aiming to drag people in to "play a game"... but are a calculated act of "casting a net" across the cosmos to cull the strongest variables from every dimension!
Meanwhile, in another dimension... a peaceful and beautiful paradise is about to be stained with blood. A dimensional rift splits open, spitting out the most malicious "foreign entity" right into the heart of the plaza.
Doma, Upper Rank Two, appears with a bright, innocent smile, surrounded by a circle of Guardian Angels. A clash between the "Faith of Light" and the "Cult of Death" is inevitable.
When angelic spears that have slain thousands of demons serve only to amuse a monster who knows no pain, can this false paradise survive the darkness that is creeping in?
Chapter Text
Interior - Subway Tunnel - Continuous
An uncomfortable silence replaced Kenta's sobbing. Chishiya surveyed his new plan with satisfaction, while Kuina stood still in the shadows... trying to process what she had become.
Chishiya didn't waste any time. He walked straight to the five lifeless bodies.
CHISHIYA
(Speaking to Kuina)
Don't rest yet... Dead "Players" still have uses... Search them... Find supplies, weapons, or anything that could be "Information."
Kuina frowned... but complied silently. It was disgusting work... but necessary.
They began searching the victims... Most had only dead phones, scraps of food, and some had simple pocket knives... nothing useful.
...Until Chishiya searched the last body... the young woman who was killed first.
In the pocket of her jeans... he felt a hard object. It wasn't a phone.
He pulled it out... It was a small silver metal device... strangely shaped... resembling a data drive, but not technology he recognized at all. On its edge... was a scorch mark... as if it had been hit by intense heat suddenly.
CHISHIYA
(Muttering)
...This is...
KUINA
(Walking over)
What is it?
Chishiya turned the device over in the flashlight beam... It had no Cursed Energy... It wasn't a "Cursed Object"... It was "Technology"... Technology that looked more advanced than the world they came from.
CHISHIYA
...This... isn't from our world... and it doesn't look like it's from this world either...
He looked up at Kuina... his eyes flashing with a new wave of understanding.
CHISHIYA
This woman... She might be like us...
Kenta, watching from the side, widened his eyes... "L... Like you? What does that mean?"
Chishiya didn't answer Kenta. He gripped the device tightly... his brain connecting the dots...
Kenjaku's drawing... the centuries-old experiments... and now... this device.
CHISHIYA
(Speaking to himself)
...Kenjaku... his "dimensional rift" experiment... It didn't just open a door to one world...
He turned to Kuina... dangerous excitement clear in his eyes.
CHISHIYA
It's not a controlled experiment... It's "Cast Net Fishing"... He is dragging abnormal "Variables"... from "Every Dimension"... together into this arena...
CHISHIYA
...This woman was one of them... She was just unlucky... too weak and got killed before her own game started.
He clenched the device.
CHISHIYA
This isn't just a clue... This is "Evidence"... that Kenjaku's actions... affect a much wider scale than Gojo thinks.
He pocketed the device carefully... Now he had even more reason to get 100 points.
CHISHIYA
(Turning to Kenta)
...Get up... We have a "Paradise" to build.
His plan hadn't changed... but it had just become much more "Personal."
Another Dimension. Interior - Abandoned Megabuilding Apartment.
The atmosphere in the once-safe apartment was now tenser than ever. Most of the "Eddies" they earned had been spent on stealth gear... not weapons.
Arisu was staring intently at data on the Dataterm screen. It was everything the Fixer gave them about the new target: a low-level Arasaka executive.
ARISU
(Muttering)
...James Mitsuo Tanaka... Head of R&D... Not just regular R&D... but in the "Theoretical Physics" department...
Usagi, checking the cables of an old "Grappling Harness" they just bought, looked up at him.
USAGI
Why... is that important?
ARISU
(Turning, eyes serious)
It's very important... Usagi... "Theoretical Physics"... "Unknown Energy"... "Dimensional Distortion"... This department... is where they study the technology that brought us here!
He pointed at the screen...
ARISU
The Fixer thinks this guy is just embezzling "components" to sell... But I bet... it's "Data"... Data about their experiments.
An exciting truth emerged... This wasn't just a gig... It was the start of their real investigation.
ARISU
The plan is... Tanaka leaves his apartment at 19:00 to attend a meeting at Arasaka Tower... The security in his room lowers temporarily when the automated cleaning drones go in... We have 15 minutes... No... we have 10 minutes only.
USAGI
(Strapping the gear to her belt)
...How do I get in? An apartment on that level... the front door isn't an option.
Arisu pulled up the schematic of Tanaka's building... a luxury tower in the city center.
ARISU
(Pointing to the top of the building)
...Rooftop access... It connects to the maintenance elevator shaft... But it's crawling with motion-detecting lasers... I'll try to hack the system remotely to create a "Blind Spot" for you... But you'll only have 3 seconds to pass each point.
This was the perfect "Game" for the two of them... A game requiring precise logic and planning... combined with impossible physical feats.
...
Exterior - Rooftop Opposite Target Apartment - 19:05
Rain began to drizzle... reflecting neon lights on the wet surfaces.
Arisu huddled behind a large vent... fingers flying across a portable keyboard connected to a small antenna... He was waging "Cyberwarfare"... fighting Arasaka's security system.
ARISU
(Whispering into mic)
...Thermal sensors are working hard because of the rain... Good... Usagi... You're green... Get ready... First blind spot... opening in... 3... 2... 1... NOW!
Exterior - Target Apartment Rooftop
Usagi... standing dozens of meters away... sprinted instantly!
She fired the "Grapple" across to the target building... Her body swung over the dark, terrifying gap between skyscrapers...
She landed on the target roof... and ran through the "gap" in the invisible red lasers... which had just blinked off for a second... barely making it.
She reached the maintenance shaft... but the door was electronically locked.
USAGI
(Whispering)
Arisu... Door's locked...
ARISU
(Sweating)
...I see it... Give me 10 seconds... There's a Firewall I didn't see on the schematic...
GUARD
FREEZE RIGHT THERE!!!
A shout came from behind Usagi! Two Arasaka security guards appeared on the fire escape! They had spotted her!
...
Another Dimension. Pearl Square, Heaven - Eternal Day.
This was the absolute polar opposite of Pentagram City.
The sky wasn't blood red, but a gentle, radiant gold. The architecture was pure white marble and crystal structures floating in orderly defiance of gravity. The air was pure... clean to the point of sterility... filled with faint choral music.
But this perfection... had cracks.
The "Winners", the pure souls walking the pavements... their smiles remained... but their eyes were filled with worry. They huddled in small groups, whispering.
And most noticeably... was the presence of "Exorcists".
They stood stationed at key corners... in white-gold armor and emotionless masks... their spears standing tall. No longer a secret strike force, but a highly visible security unit.
Amidst this tense atmosphere masked by peace...
Sera, the High Seraphim... was walking alongside Emily, the younger Seraphim.
SERA
(Voice calm, maintaining appearances)
...And that is why we must proceed... Emily. Order is paramount right now... The Winners need reassurance from us...
EMILY
(Frowning, arms crossed)
Order built on lies, Sera? What happened at that hotel... What happened to Adam... We can't pretend it never happened! And that soul... Sir Pentious... he's still here! That proves that...
SERA
(Stopping, facing Emily, voice colder)
Emily... We will not discuss that yet... Your duty is to smile... and provide reassurance... until we find an "appropriate" solution...
Emily opened her mouth to argue...
...Riiiiiiip...
A sound... that shouldn't exist in Heaven.
Not music... not speech...
It was the sound of reality being "Torn."
Sera and Emily looked up simultaneously in alarm... as did every soul and angel in the square.
In the flawless golden sky... a crack appeared... A dimensional rift... like a wound splitting open on a divine canvas.
SERA
(Freezing, voice noticeably shaking)
...Impossible... Here?...
Before anyone could react... the rift "Spat" something out.
A figure fell from the void... not crashing violently like Kokushibo... but floating down gently like a feather... before touching down lightly on the white marble in the center of the square.
Then the rift... sealed itself and vanished instantly... leaving only silence... and an uninvited guest.
He was a handsome young man... his hair pale blonde, almost white... His eyes... were the most striking feature... Rainbow-colored eyes shining beautifully... but devoid of any emotion.
He wore clean white cultist robes... now slightly torn and stained faintly with his own blood. On his hat, Kanji characters were engraved: "Upper Rank Two."
Douma.
He looked down at his hands... turning them over... with utter surprise.
DOUMA
(Muttering to himself, voice cheerful despite the situation)
...Hmm?... Strange... This feeling... It doesn't feel like disintegrating at all... Just a moment ago I felt pain from the poison...
He blinked... and looked up...
His rainbow eyes widened slightly... seeing the new environment... the beautiful architecture... the golden sky... and the pure white winged beings...
...And a wide... extremely friendly smile... appeared on his face.
Fwip! Fwip! Fwip!
In a blink... four Exorcists swooped down from the rooftops... surrounding Douma... Silver angelic spear tips pointed at his neck from all directions.
EXORCIST 1
(Voice stern, through mask)
Identify yourself! What are you! How did you trespass into the Sacred Realm!
Douma showed no fear at all... Instead, he looked at the angels with admiration... like viewing a masterpiece.
DOUMA
(Clasping hands at chest, tilting head, smiling wide)
Oh... my goodness... Where is this place? It's beautiful! Are you... messenger gods? Did you come to pick me up?
He giggled softly.
DOUMA
I'm Douma! Founder of the "Eternal Paradise" cult! Nice to meet you all! Wow... I never thought my faith would come true... This really is Paradise, isn't it!
The Exorcists glanced at each other in confusion... They had never encountered an "Intruder" with this attitude.
Far away... Emily watched the scene in confusion.
EMILY
(Whispering to Sera)
...A cult? He looks like... a human soul... He's smiling... He looks harmless, doesn't he...
Sera didn't answer... She was staring intently at Douma's rainbow eyes... Her usually calm gaze... now showed a fear never seen before.
SERA
(Voice low, trembling)
...No... Emily... Those are not human eyes... And those... are not sinner eyes...
She saw it... the symbol engraved in those irises...
SERA
...That is... a Demon.
Sera's diagnosis, "That is a demon," echoed in the minds of the nearby angels... even though she spoke with a trembling voice.
It was the signal.
The four Exorcists hesitated no longer. The "interrogation" stance vanished completely, replaced by pure killing intent.
EXORCIST 1
(Shouting)
Hostile identity confirmed! Demonic entity! Eliminate threat immediately!
Douma blinked... His smile didn't fade, but his eyes showed genuine confusion.
DOUMA
Eliminate? Wait a second... There must be a misunderstanding! We are friends, aren't we? I came all the way to the Paradise I dreamed of... You should welcome me with hugs, not spears...
EXORCIST 2
Silence! You filth!
The second angel didn't wait. He lunged at Douma with superhuman speed... The silver angelic spear flashed... aiming to pierce the center of Upper Rank Two's chest precisely.
It was an attack so fast the surrounding Winner souls couldn't track it...
But for Douma...
...Fwip...
His body leaned slightly to the side... a movement smooth and elegant like a dance... The spear grazed his robe by a hair's breadth.
In the same instant... a pair of golden fans appeared in his hands... as if conjured from thin air.
EXORCIST 2
(Shocked)
...He dodged!
DOUMA
(Covering his mouth with a closed fan, giggling)
My... so impatient... That was close... My nice clothes almost got a hole.
EXORCIST 1
He has weapons! Attack together!
The remaining three angels charged simultaneously from three directions... flawless coordination used to slaughter thousands of demons in Hell.
Three spears thrust toward vital points...
Douma sighed softly... His smile faded slightly... replaced by a colder look...
DOUMA
Can't be helped... You all seem a bit "stressed"... I suppose I must help you... relax...
He twirled the fans in his hands...
Blood Demon Art... Lotus Ice.
FWOOOOOOOOOSH!!!
The air around Douma froze instantly! Razor-sharp ice crystals... shaped like lotus petals... exploded outward in all directions from the arc of his fans!
It was a blizzard of death, both beautiful and brutal!
The Exorcists halted abruptly! They raised their spears to block and spread their wings for cover!
CLANG! CLANG! CRACK! SLASH!
The sound of metal hitting ice echoed through the square!
Some ice shards were deflected... but most... Shattered upon impact with the silver angelic armor and weapons!
The holy power of the heavenly metal... was resisting his Blood Demon Art!
The three angels were knocked back several steps... their armor frosted over... but none were critically injured!
This was the first time... his Blood Demon Art had been blocked so easily...
Douma stood still... looking down at the fans in his hands... then up at the angels readying to attack again...
The smile... slowly returned to his face... but this time... it was wider... and his rainbow eyes trembled with genuine excitement.
DOUMA
...Oho...
He looked past them to Sera and Emily standing frozen in the distance.
DOUMA
(Shouting cheerfully)
Amazing! You guys are so strong! Those weapons and armor are incredibly durable! This is it! This is truly Paradise! Full of wondrous things!
His excitement wasn't fake... It was the joy of a predator discovering that... the prey in this new land... could fight back interestingly.
EMILY
(Voice shaking)
He... He attacked... But... but they're okay...
SERA
(Clenching fists)
...It is impure power... The power of cold... It is death... Emily... It is the opposite of everything here!
She couldn't let this chaos continue... This was the gravest violation since the founding of Heaven!
SERA
(Shouting, using her Seraphim voice echoing everywhere)
ATTENTION ALL GUARDIAN ANGELS! THIS IS A DECREE! THIS INTRUDER IS A MAXIMUM THREAT! IT IS A DEMON FROM ANOTHER DIMENSION! NOT A SINNER! NOT A HUMAN! APPREHEND IT NOW! IF IT RESISTS...
She took a deep breath...
SERA
...PERMISSION TO "EXTERMINATE" GRANTED IMMEDIATELY!
With the decree...
The golden sky darkened... not from night... but from the shadows of hundreds of wings!
Exorcists stationed all over the city... took to the sky... silver spears glowing... Every tip... now pointed at Douma's body... standing smiling alone in the square.
Douma looked up at the army of white wings blotting out the golden sky...
DOUMA
(Laughing softly, voice full of delight)
My, my... Such a grand welcome...
He spread both fans... bowing slightly in a pose as graceful as a dancer... his rainbow eyes shining bright amidst the encirclement.
DOUMA
It is truly an honor... I suppose I must... "Entertain" you all... to live up to expectations!
At Sera's command... the Exorcist army moved.
It was a sight both magnificent and terrifying...
Hundreds of angels dove from the sky simultaneously... Not a chaotic charge... but a perfectly coordinated formation... Hundreds of silver spear tips aiming at one point... at Douma's body...
It was a "Rain of Judgment."
Winner souls around screamed and ran for their lives... The peaceful square became a war zone in an instant.
DOUMA
(Looking up, widest smile yet)
Oh! Everyone's joining the fun! Fantastic!
He didn't try to use "Lotus Ice" again... He knew it didn't work well against these holy metals.
He chose to... Dance.
Fwip! Fwip! Zoom!
In the split second the first spear was about to hit... Douma's body flickered and faded... becoming an afterimage.
BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!
Dozens of spears slammed into where he had stood... The holy power violent enough to crack the pure white marble floor into spiderwebs!
This was the first "real" damage inflicted on Heaven's architecture.
Douma reappeared atop a crystal pillar far away... balancing gracefully on one leg.
DOUMA
(Tapping his shoulder with a fan)
Wow... So dangerous... That would have hurt a lot...
Far away... on a safe balcony... Emily gasped.
EMILY
(Voice shaking)
...How... How did he dodge... All of that... He's faster than Adam ever moved...
SERA
(Staring intently, eyes cold)
...That is unnatural speed... Not just power... but his nature... He is... a hunter...
EXORCIST 1
(Shouting)
He's on the pillar! Surround him! Don't let him land!
Another wave of angels changed direction... rushing the pillar Douma stood on to destroy his footing.
DOUMA
(Giggling)
Tag? I like tag!
He leaped from the pillar... but instead of falling... he "Climbed" onto empty air... as if invisible ice steps existed... before launching himself at an angel flying mid-air!
EXORCIST
(Panicking, turning spear to block)
Incoming!
Douma didn't use a spell... he used his "Fans"...
CLANG!!!
The golden fans clashed hard against the angelic spear shaft! The massive impact sent the angel flying backward through the air!
But... Douma's fans had small chips! And the angel's hands still gripped the spear tight!
DOUMA
(Eyes widening slightly)
Oh... Not just the spears... but you guys are tough too! Awesome! Just awesome!
His excitement skyrocketed... These toys... weren't fragile like humans!
EXORCIST 1
He can resist our power! But his power can't hurt us! Bring him down!
Four or five angels closest to him swarmed Douma mid-air... Spears thrusting from all sides.
DOUMA
(Smile fading, changing to a more "serious" smile)
True enough... Your weapons can hurt me... but my power doesn't seem to do anything to you...
He inhaled deeply... The air around him froze again... but this time it was different.
DOUMA
...This is... not "Fair" at all...
Blood Demon Art... Wintry Icicles.
It wasn't an attack... it was a "Release."
Douma didn't create sharp ice... he created "Mist"... a freezing mist, cold to the bone... exploding outward from him in all directions!
FWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH!!!
The charging angels... flew right through the mist!
EXORCIST 3
...Mist? Is that it... Ghk!
The angel froze mid-air... He wasn't stabbed... but he couldn't breathe!
When the ice mist touched their pristine lungs... it began to freeze their internal organs instantly!
EXORCIST 4
...C-Can't move... my wings...
Ice began to form on the joints of their armor and crucially... their pure white wings! Wings that once flapped freely... now became stiff and brittle!
DOUMA
(Smiling)
Ah... Looks like I found a weak spot...
He surged past the slowing, off-balance group of angels...
This time... he didn't aim for the armor...
...SLASH!...
The golden fan in his hand swiped past... the gap between the helmet and the neck guard of one angel...
...A moment of silence...
Before bright Golden Blood... sprayed from the angel's throat!
Her body fell from the sky... crashing onto the cracked white marble below... THUD!
...Silence...
Hundreds of circling Exorcists... stopped simultaneously.
Sera... froze.
Emily... covered her mouth... eyes wide with absolute horror.
...A soldier of Heaven... A judge of Hell... Slain... on Heaven's own soil...
Douma landed softly... standing a few steps from the angel's corpse.
He raised the golden fan stained with bright golden blood...
His rainbow eyes looked at it with curiosity... before he stuck out his tongue to lick the blood stain...
He frowned slightly...
DOUMA
(Muttering to himself, voice clearly disappointed)
...Hmm... The taste... so bland... like metal... No sweetness of a girl at all...
He flicked the fan... shaking off the remaining golden blood...
DOUMA
(Looking up at the remaining army, smiling cheerfully again)
So disappointing! But that's okay! There's plenty more left to "Taste"!
Chapter 30: Weaponized Essence
Summary:
A suicidal 4.5-minute mission begins! Team I.M.P. infiltrates the site of Kokushibo’s massacre to retrieve samples... but what they secure isn't just evidence—it is "Death incarnate in a bio-bag."
The collected flesh isn't rotting; instead, it is dissolving into a "void" that consumes everything it touches! Back at the office, Stolas must exert all his power to contain this "dust of death" before it devours them alive!
A terrifying truth is unveiled... The enemy doesn't simply wield weapons. Their very bodies and blades "ARE" the weapons, forged from pure killing intent! Physical attacks are rendered completely futile.
Yet, in the midst of despair, a glimmer of hope remains... A fragment of a sword guard retrieved by Millie is the only thing capable of withstanding this destructive force. It is the "key" to victory! Blitzo decides to change the plan... Instead of fleeing, they will hunt down the origin of this "Dark Metal" to forge a new weapon capable of killing a god!
Chapter Text
Exterior - Streets of Pentagram City
The I.M.P. van's tires screeched against the asphalt of Pentagram City. Blitzø drove with a grim expression, knuckles white on the steering wheel. In the distance, the flashing lights of sirens and plumes of smoke rising into the blood-red sky were clearly visible.
Inside the van, silence reigned, broken only by the roar of the engine. Moxxie clutched his sniper rifle in the back seat, palms sweating. He watched panicked demons sprint past the window in the opposite direction. Millie was checking the small sample collection kit Blitzø had tossed her—a leather pouch containing bio-hazard bags, forceps, and several small scalpels. Loona sat in the passenger seat, her nose twitching constantly, trying to pick up any unusual scents.
Blitzø swerved into a narrow alley a few blocks from the scene and killed the engine immediately.
BLITZØ
Here... We walk from here... Remember the plan... Moxxie, find high ground. Watch the tower entrance and our perimeter... Loona, nose to the ground. Find where the scent is strongest... Millie, you and I are on sample duty... We have five minutes max once our feet hit that street... Are we clear?
Everyone nodded in unison.
They exited the vehicle and moved swiftly and silently through the musty alleys. The sounds of sirens and screams grew louder with every step.
When they emerged at the street corner... chaos greeted them.
It was worse than on TV. Hell Police cars were abandoned with sirens still wailing, doors left wide open as if the owners had fled for their lives. Most of the crowd had dispersed, leaving only the brave or stupid watching from afar. And in the center of it all... lay the corpses of the hyena gang, submerged in pools of pitch-black blood. Their bodies were bisected perfectly, like gruesome works of art.
And most importantly... no sign of Kokushibo.
BLITZØ
(Raising a fist)
Okay... Clear... He's gone... Start the clock! Go!
At the command, everyone split up instantly.
Moxxie scrambled up the side of an abandoned news van. He lay flat, raising his rifle to scope the area, sweeping his gaze everywhere, especially the dark, ominous entrance of VoxTek Tower.
MOXXIE
(Whispering into his lapel mic)
...Perimeter clear... No movement from inside the building, sir...
Loona took point, closing her eyes and inhaling deeply.
LOONA
...Smell of blood is everywhere... but his scent... it's faint... Like I said... smells like wet stone... It's right here...
She pointed to where the mutilated bodies lay.
Blitzø and Millie pulled on gloves and rushed in. They knelt beside the upper torso of the gang leader.
BLITZØ
Jesus fuck... look at this cut...
Millie nodded. She ran a gloved finger carefully along the edge of the wound.
MILLIE
...It's smooth as glass, boss... No tearing of the tissue at all... Like it was cut with a high-heat laser... but...
BLITZØ
(Noticing the same thing)
...But there's no cauterization... no burns...
It was a severe anomaly. A cut clean enough to imply immense heat, yet zero trace of burning. Blitzø grabbed a scalpel and quickly sliced a small piece of flesh from the wound edge into a bio-bag, while Millie did the same with another corpse.
MOXXIE (V.O.)
...Two minutes! Still clear!
Loona circled the area, her nose working overtime.
LOONA
...Right here... footprints... He walked around these messes... didn't step in a drop...
Blitzø looked up at Loona's indication before turning back to something even creepier. He used forceps to pick up a fragment of a severed rib bone for a closer look.
BLITZØ
(Muttering)
...Holy shit...
MILLIE
(Leaning in)
What is it, boss?
BLITZØ
...Look at this... The tissue attached to the bone... it's... disintegrating.
The sight was bizarre. The cells adjacent to the cut weren't rotting... they were slowly dissolving into fine gray dust. As if the sword's energy was still eating away at its target minutes later.
This wasn't a normal sword... it was a weapon of cellular destruction.
MOXXIE (V.O., voice panicked)
...Three minutes thirty! More cop cars incoming! They're setting up a perimeter!
Blitzø cursed under his breath. He shoved the bone sample into another bag quickly.
BLITZØ
Got it! Millie, that's enough!
Millie nodded. She was about to stand, but a glint under a corpse caught her eye. A small piece of metal that didn't fit the scene.
MILLIE
(Picking it up)
...Wait... this is...
It was a Tsuba, or sword guard... but just a broken fragment. Pitch black, with a creepy eye pattern engraved on it.
BLITZØ
(Glancing quickly)
Grab it! Let's get the fuck out of here!
MOXXIE (V.O., shouting)
...Sir! Move now! They're closing in!
Blitzø, Millie, and Loona turned and sprinted back to the alley they came from. They heard amplified shouts and approaching footsteps getting closer every second.
They dove back into the shadows of the alley just in time... before the first squad of Hell Police swarmed the area.
Interior - I.M.P. Van
The four jumped back into the van. Loona vaulted into the driver's seat and cranked the engine. It roared to life before she slammed the pedal to the metal, launching the van out of the alley.
They sped away unnoticed.
Inside... everyone was panting heavily, adrenaline still pumping.
Blitzø opened the sample kit. He placed the two bio-bags and the broken sword guard on the seat next to him.
Moxxie lowered his rifle, eyeing the objects with a mix of fear and curiosity.
MOXXIE
...What... What exactly did we get, sir?
Blitzø picked up the bag with the flesh sample, shaking it gently.
BLITZØ
...We got proof that... his weapon... isn't just "sharp"... It deletes everything it touches...
He stared at the flesh inside, which was still slowly turning into dust.
Success brought no relief... only a terrifying new truth.
They were facing an enemy whose weapon defied the laws of physics they knew.
Blitzø leaned back, sighing long and hard. He looked at the sample with grim eyes.
BLITZØ
(Muttering)
...Alright, Stolas... hope you find something good in your books...
He looked at the road ahead.
BLITZØ
...Because we can't shoot our way out of this shit...
Interior - I.M.P. Van - Moments Later
The van cruised down the backstreets of Pentagram City, avoiding main roads now choked with chaos and police checkpoints. Loona drove with a blank face, but her eyes darted warily at every intersection.
The silence inside was deafening... suffocating.
Only the sound of heavy breathing and a faint shhh... krrrk... sound—so quiet it was almost inaudible—coming from the sample bag between Blitzø and Millie.
Moxxie broke first. He leaned forward from the back.
MOXXIE
(Voice trembling)
...Sir... Do... do you hear that?
Blitzø nodded slowly, eyes glued to the bag. He reached a gloved hand to touch the bio-bag containing the flesh and bone...
...It was warm...
Not body heat... but heat from a chemical reaction... or something supernatural.
Blitzø slowly unzipped the bag.
The sight made everyone hold their breath.
The flesh and bone fragments were more than half gone... turning into a pile of fine gray dust that was slowly corroding through the innermost bio-bag.
MILLIE
(Eyes wide, whispering)
...It... It's still alive... Its power...
BLITZØ
(Cursing)
...Not just alive... It's eating.
He stared at the dust... It wasn't rot... it was erasing matter from reality.
Loona glanced in the rearview mirror.
LOONA
...That smell... cold stone... It's coming from that dust... Stronger than before.
Blitzø looked at the broken sword guard (Tsuba) lying next to it... It was the only thing not disintegrating... but it seemed to be vibrating slightly... reacting to the dust.
Blitzø thought fast... remembering Stolas's words...
...It is pure killing intent condensed into mass...
He connected the dots... The power Stolas pulled from Millie, the "Upper Rank Three" in Akaza's eyes, and this dust eating everything in its path...
BLITZØ
(Looking up, meeting everyone's eyes)
...It's not "Power"...
He pointed at the dust pile.
BLITZØ
...This is their "Body."
MOXXIE
(Pale)
...What... What do you mean, sir?
BLITZØ
(Speaking slowly and clearly)
This dust... is their cells... their blood... And that six-eyed fucker's sword... It isn't just a sword... It's a part of him... It is "Upper Rank One."
The horrifying new truth hit them hard.
They didn't use weapons... They were weapons.
Fighting them... wasn't just dodging a blade... it was fighting every molecule of their body designed to delete the enemy.
Millie clenched her fist... As a fighter, she understood this best.
MILLIE
(Gritting teeth)
...That means... even a scratch... even a drop of his blood... is death.
Blitzø nodded.
BLITZØ
...Yeah...
The van turned into the dark alley behind the I.M.P. office and screeched to a halt.
Loona killed the engine... The terrifying silence returned... heavier than ever.
No one moved... lost in thought... drowning in the realization that... the enemy they faced was on a completely different level from anything they imagined.
They weren't just killers... they were walking calamities.
Blitzø zipped the sample bag shut violently. The sound cracked through the silence.
BLITZØ
(Breaking the silence, voice harsh)
...Get out.
He was the first to step out... holding the evidence bag like a time bomb.
BLITZØ
...Moxxie... Call Stolas... NOW! Tell him we have a "sample" for him... And tell him... to get his feathery ass here... before this shit... eats through our office floor.
Interior - I.M.P. Office - Continuous
The office door slammed open and shut with a loud BANG!
The four rushed in as if fleeing something invisible. The triumph of securing the sample... replaced by panic.
MOXXIE
(Shouting)
I'm calling! I'm calling!
He scrambled to his desk, fumbling the skull phone once before dialing Stolas frantically.
Meanwhile, Blitzø ran to his desk. He slammed the sample bag onto the old wood.
Shhh... Krrrk... Fizz...
The sound was clearer now... and scarier... Faint gray smoke began to curl from the bag's seams.
BLITZØ
(Cursing loudly)
Dammit! It's gonna eat through my desk!
He scanned the room frantically... Where to put it? Fridge? No... File cabinet? Even worse!
His eyes landed on the petty cash metal lockbox on the corner of his desk... barely ever used. He swiped it to the floor, opened the lid, dumping the few coins inside.
MILLIE
(Understanding instantly)
Boss! That!
Blitzø grabbed the bio-bag, now deflating and spewing gray vapor... He felt heat radiating through his gloves... He tossed it all into the metal box and snapped the lid shut. CLICK!
MOXXIE
(Speaking rapidly into phone)
Stolas! Pick up dammit! Pick up! ... Oh! Your Highness! Get here! Now! We have... We have a "piece" of him! ... Yes! And it's... it's unstable! Hurry! Please!
CLICK!
Moxxie hung up without waiting. He turned to the others, face pale.
The four of them... Blitzø, Moxxie, Millie, and Loona... stared at the small metal box on the floor...
The shhh... krrrk... sound was muffled... but it hadn't stopped... It was contained... temporarily...
LOONA
(Wrinkling nose, stepping back)
...That smell... cold stone... It's stronger... even inside the box...
Less than three seconds later...
WHOOSH!
A massive deep red magic circle exploded in the center of the room, more violent than before. A gust of wind sent papers flying.
Stolas stepped out...
This time not in pajamas... but in full royal regalia... His four eyes were bloodshot and dead serious. Like he was ready for war.
STOLAS
(Voice deep, scanning the room)
...Where is it?
Blitzø didn't speak... he just pointed to the metal box gently vibrating on the floor.
Stolas frowned. He floated closer cautiously... He didn't touch it... He extended a hand over the box... faint red light glowing from his fingertips...
He closed his eyes... to sense the energy trapped inside...
The moment he connected with its "Essence"...
Stolas flinched violently!
His eyes snapped open... and he recoiled a step automatically... His expression shifted from worry... to a panic almost no one had ever seen.
MOXXIE
...S... Sir?
STOLAS
(Voice shaking, eyes glued to the box)
...This... Blitzy... What did you bring here...
BLITZØ
(Clenching fists, getting annoyed)
A "piece" of that six-eyed fucker! What his sword cut off... How many times do I have to say it!
STOLAS
(Shaking head rapidly, cutting him off)
No... No... You don't understand...
He stared at the metal box like it was a viper about to strike.
STOLAS
...This isn't "Power"... It isn't "Magic"... It isn't "Blood" as we know it...
He looked up at everyone... eyes filled with a horrific truth he just grasped.
STOLAS
(Whispering)
...This is Condensed Death... It is "Void" given form... It is... the predator's soul distilled to purity...
Fear was evident in the demon prince's four eyes.
STOLAS
...It shouldn't exist... It... It contradicts every law of Hell and Heaven... This is the "Poison" that made those monsters...
Then his eyes caught the broken sword guard (Tsuba) Blitzø had left on the desk... the only thing not in the box.
He pointed at it.
STOLAS
...And that metal... is the only thing that can resist it...
Every eye in the room... shifted from the vibrating box to the small black metal shard sitting still on the desk.
It looked so ordinary... harmless...
MOXXIE
(Gulping)
...That... that little piece?
Stolas nodded slowly. His face was still pale, but the scholar's gaze returned. He turned his attention from the death box and floated to Blitzø’s desk.
He didn't pick it up immediately... He just extended a long finger near it...
Faint red light glowed again... but this time...
Zip!
Instead of absorbing to "read" the energy... it bounced off like hitting an invisible wall.
STOLAS
(Raising an eyebrow in extreme surprise)
...It... resists...
He muttered to himself... before deciding to touch it directly. He flinched slightly as his finger met the metal.
BLITZØ
What? Did it bite?
STOLAS
(Shaking head slowly, staring at the metal)
...No... It's just... "Cold."
He said the word with profound meaning... It was the same cold as the "cold stone smell" Loona smelled... It was the temperature of the Void.
STOLAS
...This... This isn't normally forged metal... It is... It was "Forged" with the same energy inside that box... It is a "Lightning Rod" for "Death."
MILLIE
(Stepping closer, trying to understand)
You mean... they use their own power to make weapons?
STOLAS
(Looking up)
...Yes and no... I think... this is the only metal in any dimension that can "Contain" and "Control" that terrifying energy... It gives form to chaos... Their weapons... their swords... are made of this.
He looked at Millie with sympathy.
STOLAS
...And that means... your weapons... Hell's weapons... mean nothing to them.
The words struck Millie hard... She glanced at her favorite axe... It was no different from a child's toy.
CREAAK! ... HISS...!
The sound of metal warping rang out from the floor!
Everyone whipped around!
The sturdy metal box... was twisting... The corners turning brittle gray... and crumbling into dust!
The gray smoke intensified!
LOONA
(Covering nose, choking)
Cough! ... Ugh! ... That smell... It burns!
MOXXIE
(Backing against the wall)
It... It's coming out! It ate through the box!
Stolas looked stressed. He dropped the sword guard on the desk.
STOLAS
(Shouting, louder than anyone had ever heard)
Back! Get back! NOW!
The Demon Prince raised both hands... The room's atmosphere churned instantly! No casual magic this time... This was full power!
STOLAS
We cannot let it out! If it touches the air... it will expand... It will eat everything! It will eat this office... this building... until it dilutes across Pentagram City!
BLITZØ
(Drawing his silver revolver)
Can I shoot it?!
STOLAS
(Roaring, eyes flaming)
NO! That will only scatter it!
Stolas began chanting... in an ancient demonic tongue that sounded like grinding granite... The air around the box began to distort... forming a pitch-black energy Bubble... like an oil slick in the air...
A pocket dimension to contain it!
But the "Thing" in the box... resisted!
HISS!
Gray vapor shot from the cracks... hitting the black bubble...
CRACK!
Cracks appeared on the energy bubble! It froze and dissolved on contact!
STOLAS
(Gritting teeth, sweat beading on his forehead)
...It... It's eating my magic!
He gathered all his power... roaring... Deep red light exploded from his body, slamming into the black bubble... forcing it to shrink... compressing the metal box and the death dust...
The box was crushed... but the gray energy flared violently!
Stolas fought for balance... wrapping his power around that "Void"...
Until finally...
Vwoop...
Everything compressed... into a pitch-black sphere... the size of a bowling ball... vibrating and distorting violently... floating in mid-air.
Stolas stood panting... his arms shaking... He cast one more spell... and the black sphere floated slowly into his palm.
He stared at it... with eyes full of fear and exhaustion.
BLITZØ
(Lowering his gun slowly)
...You... You got it?
STOLAS
(Nodding weakly)
...Yes... but temporarily... I must take it away from here... To a place... with no "Matter" for it to eat... My library... in the void dimension...
He looked up at Blitzø and the I.M.P. team... All playfulness was gone... only a heavy warning remained.
STOLAS
...Blitzy... This is not a fight you can win... Not with methods you know... Do not... Do not confront them... Do you understand?
Blitzø didn't answer... He just stared at the black sphere in Stolas's hand.
STOLAS
...Wait... Wait until I find an answer...
Without waiting for a reply... Stolas waved his other hand... A red circle appeared beneath him...
His body and the deadly sphere of void... vanished in a blink.
The I.M.P. office fell silent again...
Only the heavy breathing of the four remained... and a circular scorch mark where the box sat... The concrete floor was "deleted" into a shallow crater.
Moxxie collapsed to the floor... Millie leaned against the wall, staring at her axe with empty eyes... Loona exhaled sharply, trying to clear that cold stone smell from her nose.
Blitzø stood still for a moment... before walking back to his desk.
He picked up that small black sword guard fragment...
It was still freezing cold...
He clenched it tight... until the broken edge cut into his palm.
BLITZØ
(Muttering coldly)
..."Do not confront them"... huh?
He looked up at his hopeless team.
BLITZØ
...That owl spoke wrong... He didn't say we "can't win"... He just said... "We can't win with methods we know"...
He raised the fist holding the metal shard.
BLITZØ
...So... we just find a "New Method"... Starting with... finding out where the fuck this metal comes from...
Chapter 31: Withered Garden vs Divine Light
Summary:
Heaven is ablaze!
Doma, Upper Rank Two, initiates a massacre of angels in the middle of Pearl Square, transforming the sacred realm into a frozen garden of death!
With the soldiers of God desecrated, Sera, the High Seraphim, is forced to intervene in her true, omnipotent form. The golden power of Order clashes with the demon's madness... resulting in a searing cage of light.
But far more terrifying than the destruction is the laughter echoing from within the cage... Doma isn’t in pain; he is "reveling" in his punishment! The emotionless demon may be imprisoned in the deepest depths of Heaven, but his twisted spirit has left an eternal stain upon the hearts of the celestial host.
Meanwhile, back in Hell...
Tensions run high at the Hazbin Hotel. Vaggie wants to barricade the hotel to escape the coming war, but Charlie is manipulated by Alastor into throwing the doors open to disaster. The rift between the lovers widens... all amidst the laughter of the Radio Demon, who is eagerly awaiting the most "entertaining" finale!
Chapter Text
Exterior - Pearl Square, Heaven
Silence...
Absolute silence blanketed Pearl Square for the first time in history.
The choirs stopped... The wind rustling through crystal spires stopped...
The only sound was... Drip...
A final drop of golden blood... falling from the chin of the slain Exorcist’s mask... hitting the pristine white marble floor.
A corpse...
There was a corpse in Heaven.
Far away... Emily trembled uncontrollably. She didn't scream... She couldn't.
EMILY
(Voice breaking)
...She... She's not moving... Sera... The blood...
Sera didn't look at Emily. Her eyes were fixed on Douma... who was smiling cheerfully beside her soldier's corpse... The composure she had maintained for centuries... shattered.
Fear... Anger... And a feeling she had never experienced before... Humiliation... surged within her.
But before Sera could issue a command...
SCREEEEEECH!!!
It wasn't a demonic roar... It was a roar of fury... from all the remaining Exorcists!
The image of their comrade... slaughtered so easily on holy ground... was the fuel that ignited their frenzy!
EXORCIST 1
(Screaming, mask vibrating)
...He killed... He killed Sister Oriel! THAT BASTARD! KILL HIM!!!
Order... Formations... Everything was thrown out the window!
The remaining Exorcist army... hundreds strong... became a swarm of hawks maddened by rage. They dove at Douma from all directions... not to arrest... but to rip apart!
DOUMA
(Laughing heartily, clapping his fans together)
Hahaha! Finally dropped the act, huh! Now this is what I call a "Party"!
This was his playground!
He wasn't fighting an army... he was fighting an uncontrolled mob... and he was the wolf amidst angry sheep.
Fwip! Slash! Fwip!
Douma moved... so fast he was just a white blur... He no longer bothered to clash directly...
An angel thrust a spear... He simply leaned back... and blew freezing "Ice Mist" point-blank into her face!
EXORCIST 5
(Choking)
Ghk!
Her lungs froze instantly! She lost balance and crashed to the ground... suffocating...
Three more Exorcists swarmed in...
Blood Demon Art... Withered Hanging Garden.
Douma swept both fans in wide arcs... creating shockwaves of freezing air laced with invisible ice blades!
Slash! Slash! Slice!
It didn't cut through armor... It cut their Wings!
Pure white wings were severed like paper! Golden blood sprayed everywhere... The three angels screamed in agony... not from fatal wounds... but from losing what defined them... They fell, crashing to the ground, broken.
Douma landed amidst the injured and dying angels... He was truly "Playing."
He twirled a fan... preparing to finish off the angel with frozen lungs...
STOP.
A voice... not just speech...
It was a Command.
The sky trembled... The air vibrated with pure holy power...
Douma froze mid-motion... Not out of fear... but because that power... was "Different." It was warm... bright... and utterly repulsive to him.
He looked up slowly...
Sera... was no longer on the balcony.
She was floating above the square... All six of her eyes... were now fully open... Her three pairs of pure white wings spread wide... each glowing with pure golden light... like six miniature suns.
She was a true Seraphim... unleashing her power.
SERA
(Voice echoing, authoritative, and cold as ice... but a different kind of ice from Douma's)
...Exorcist Corps... Fall back! Establish a defensive perimeter! Tend to the wounded!
The frenzied angels... stopped dead at her voice... Rage replaced by awe... They flew back rapidly... dragging their wounded comrades with them... leaving Douma standing in the ruined square... with the corpse... and Sera floating above.
DOUMA
(Licking his lips, smile returning)
Oh...
He stared at Sera with trembling rainbow eyes...
DOUMA
...Finally... the "Real Deal" came out to play...
Sera didn't answer... She slowly raised one hand... Golden energy began to gather at her fingertips... forming the shape of a... Light Spear.
SERA
(Voice cold, a decree echoing through the heavens)
...In the name of Heaven... and Sacred Order... Your existence... is an error...
She stared deep into those rainbow eyes...
SERA
...And I... will be the one to "Correct" it.
The golden energy forming the spear in Sera's hand was... different.
It didn't radiate heat... It radiated Order.
It was pure light... It was Law... It was the absolute opposite of the chaos and death Douma represented.
DOUMA
(Spreading arms, dropping fans carelessly)
Oh... Oh... my... god...
He whispered the words... like a believer seeing God for the first time.
DOUMA
(Voice shaking with ecstasy)
...Beautiful... So beautiful... That power... That light... It's so warm... It makes me feel...
His rainbow eyes trembled violently...
DOUMA
...Like I want to crush it with my bare hands!
Sera didn't even frown... The taunts of a lowly demon had no effect on her anymore... Judgment had been passed...
She didn't throw the spear...
She simply... Pointed.
...FSHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
A beam of pure golden light... shot from the spear tip... It wasn't a laser... It was a "Line" of reality being fired... It rushed at Douma faster than thought... It was "Deletion" of everything in its path.
Douma had no time to even laugh... Demon instincts honed over centuries took full control!
This was true death!
Blood Demon Art... Crystalline Divine Child.
He didn't try to dodge... He couldn't...
Fans appeared in his hands again, moving faster than light... Creating massive ice lotuses... not just one... but ten... a hundred... layering into a thick, complex dome wall in a split second! His strongest defense!
...Then the beam hit...
No explosion sound...
...Hisssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss...
It was the sound of ice... Sublimating.
The holy golden power didn't "break" the ice... It Negated it!
The Blood Demon Art that froze everything... turned to vapor instantly upon touching the light of judgment... Hundreds of layers of ice lotuses vanished in less than a tenth of a second...
The beam pierced through his strongest defense... as if it were mere mist...
...And struck Douma's body head-on...
...SIZZZZZZZZZLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!
A sound... that shouldn't exist...
It was the sound of demon flesh... being burned by holy power...
Douma's body was blasted backward... not just thrown... but pinned in mid-air by the beam... before Sera flicked her hand... The beam dissipated... letting his body fall and crash onto the cracked marble floor...
...Thud...
Silence... returned.
The Exorcist army hovered still in the sky... staring at their leader's judgment.
EMILY
(Standing frozen, whispering)
...It-It's over... right?...
Sera lowered her hand... Her wings still glowing... She looked down at the motionless body below with cold eyes...
...But then...
...Kik...
A soft giggle... came from the pile of golden blood and smoke...
...Kik... Kik... Kik... Ha... Ha...
Douma... slowly propped himself up to sit...
His condition... was horrific.
His entire left side... from shoulder to hip... was gone... Not cut... but "Erased"... A gaping, grotesque wound... The edges didn't bleed... but glowed faintly gold... and "Rejected" regeneration!
He tried to regenerate tissue... but the moment flesh grew... it turned to ash upon touching the residual holy power.
...And it... "Hurt."
For the first time in his eternal life... Douma... felt true pain... Pain he couldn't comprehend or ignore.
...And he... "Liked" it...
DOUMA
(Panting, voice shaking... not with fear... but pleasure)
...Ha... Ha... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
He looked up at Sera... Rainbow eyes wide open... Tears streaming down his face... Not tears of sadness... but tears of manic joy!
DOUMA
(Shouting, voice raspy)
...Amazing... AMAZING! So this is it! This feeling! What is it! It hurts! It burns! It...
He clutched the glowing wound with his remaining right hand...
DOUMA
...It feels like... "Falling in Love"! HAHAHA!
His reaction... was the most terrifying thing Heaven had ever witnessed.
Emily collapsed to the floor... she began to vomit...
The Exorcists looked at each other in confusion and terror... They fought demons that screamed... demons that begged... but not demons that... "Thanked" them for the pain...
Sera... her usually calm face... twisted with an emotion she didn't understand...
It was... "Disgust."
She had fought chaos for eons... but now... she realized...
...There was something worse than chaos...
...It was a "Void" that enjoyed its own pain...
Exterior - Pearl Square, Heaven - Continuous
Douma's maniacal, blood-soaked laughter... echoed through the silent square. It was the only sound breaking the shattered sanctity.
He sat there... half a body... cheerfully trying to regenerate, failing every time the golden holy power at the wound... flashed and erased the new tissue... bringing a new wave of pain... and a new wave of laughter.
DOUMA
(Panting, tone perversely cheerful)
...Ha... Ha... More! Please! My beautiful Seraphim! Why stop? Your love... it's just... wonderful! Please... give me more!
The Exorcists in the sky... didn't retreat in fear... but in "Revulsion."
They were trained to fight Hell's wrath, pride, and lust... but they were never trained to handle madness that "Loved" their purification...
EMILY
(Still on the ground, voice shaking, speaking to herself)
...This... isn't... This is all wrong...
Sera... floated still... The blinding light from her six wings dimmed slightly... Not from weakness... but "Control." She slowly descended... until her feet touched the marble stained with her soldier's golden blood... ten paces from Douma.
Her face... twisted in disgust a moment ago... was now blank again... but a blankness colder than Douma's ice... It was the void of absolute decision.
SERA
(Voice soft, but echoing in the silence)
...It feels no pain... because it understands no pain...
She turned to the remaining Exorcists.
SERA
It is not a soul... not a living thing... It is a "Void" wearing a mask... We will not honor it with destruction... because that is what it wants.
DOUMA
(Tilting head, feigning curiosity)
...Eh? What are you saying? I don't get difficult stuff! I just want...
SERA
"Seal It."
Sera commanded... She didn't shout... It was a decree.
The Exorcists responded instantly... but they didn't attack Douma...
The four nearest... swooped down... but instead of aiming at the demon... they slammed their angelic spears... into the marble floor around Douma... forming a perfect square.
CLANG! CLANG! CLANG! CLANG!
The moment the last spear struck...
...VWOOOOOOM!!!
Four beams of golden light shot up from each spear... connecting mid-air... creating a "Cage"... A cage made of bars of holy light... Boxing Douma in on four sides... and above...
Douma looked around the glowing cage with genuine surprise.
DOUMA
Oh! What is this! A magic cage! You're keeping me here? Keeping me as a special pet? Wonderful! How kind of you!
Curious... he reached out his remaining hand... trying to touch the light bar...
...SIZZZZZZZZLE!!!
The moment his finger touched the light... it sizzled like raw meat on a hot pan! Smoke rose... A new wave of intense pain shot through him!
And that... made him laugh even louder!!!
DOUMA
(Pulling hand back, clutching the charred limb, laughing through tears)
HAHAHAHAHA! Hot! It's so hot! Even the cage is full of your love! It's so... warm... Truly warm!
Sera stared at the image... A critically wounded demon... laughing happily at the pain the holy cage inflicted...
She turned her back on him...
SERA
(To the Exorcists)
Take it...
She paused... searching for the right words...
SERA
...To the "Vault of Conflict"... Deepest level... Where there is no light... and no sound escapes...
She looked at Emily... still trembling on the ground.
SERA
(Voice cold)
Stand up... Emily... The "Cleanup" has just begun.
Sera walked away... never looking back... Her wings folded gracefully... but her steps were heavy...
The Exorcists moved... channeling power... lifting the light cage from the ground... beginning the journey to hide this piece of madness... in the deepest part of Heaven.
Emily watched Sera's back... then looked at the rising cage... from which Douma's blissful laughter still escaped...
DOUMA
(Shouting after them)
Goodbye, my beautiful angel! Come "refill your love" often! I'll be waitingggggg!
...And on that day... In Heaven... besides the first corpse... there was the first Demon Prisoner... who thought imprisonment... was true paradise.
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - The Next Day
Twenty-four hours had passed... and they were the heaviest 24 hours in the hotel's history.
The chaos of yesterday... had transformed into a tense silence.
The lobby... was still open per Charlie's orders... but the atmosphere was completely different.
Charlie Morningstar stood near the window... rearranging the "Relationship Building Activities" brochures over and over... even though they were perfect. Her smile remained... but her eyes looked out the front door with worry... Every time a strange shadow or loud noise came from outside... her shoulders flinched slightly.
Vaggie sat on the sofa... but in a posture ready to fight. Arms crossed... staring intently at the front door... Her angelic spear wasn't in hand... but leaned against the armrest... close enough to grab instantly. She hadn't spoken to Charlie all morning... a wall of awkward silence between them.
Angel Dust sprawled on another sofa... scrolling through his phone boredly... but with underlying anxiety. He refreshed "The Vees" social page repeatedly to see if Valentino posted anything... or ordered him to do anything.
Husk was behind the bar... wiping the same glass... with a face grumpier than usual. He grumbled softly every time the tube TV in the corner... replayed the loop of the "Moon Demon" walking through the crowd... even though the sound was muted.
Niffty... was the only one who seemed happy... She was dusting... stabbing the duster at a chair leg rapidly... humming softly, "Blood... blood... blood..."
The awkward silence was broken by Angel Dust.
ANGEL DUST
(Sighing loudly, tossing phone on chest)
Ugh... So fucking boring! Since last night... the whole city is quiet as a graveyard... That one six-eyed guy made every coward in Hell hide in a hole... Even my gigs got canceled! Val is so pissed he doesn't want to see anyone... except that samurai guy's face.
VAGGIE
(Voice stern, not looking)
...Good, isn't it... At least it's safer out there... with no one roaming around.
ANGEL DUST
(Sitting up, hugging Fat Nuggets)
Safer, babe? No way... This is the calm before the storm... Right now, The Vees have put a "Information" bounty on that guy higher than some Overlord souls... Right now... every gang... every bounty hunter... every corner of the city... is turning the ground over looking for him... It ain't safety... It's a countdown to war.
CHARLIE
(Turning sharply, trying to smile hopefully)
...That's not true! Maybe... maybe he just... needs a place to hide! Maybe he realized he went too far... and maybe... he's looking for a place... that would give him a chance...
Her eyes darted to the front door again...
Vaggie couldn't take it anymore. She stood up to face Charlie.
VAGGIE
(Voice shaking with frustration)
...A chance? Charlie! Did you hear Angel! "War"! That is what's coming! And you still insist on keeping the front door open... arms wide waiting for that monster... like he's a lost lamb!
CHARLIE
(Stepping back, eyes pained)
Vaggie... I just think...
VAGGIE
(Louder)
You "think"? Or are you "listening" to others too much!
She snapped her gaze to the darkest corner of the room...
And there... Alastor sat cross-legged on a chair... reading the morning paper with a grin so wide it was creepy...
The bold headline on the front page read... "VOX POPULI? DARK! MUTE! NO SIGNAL!" with a caricature of a shattered TV.
ALASTOR
(Not looking up from paper, voice cheerful)
My... my... Don't call me nosy, darling... but this tense morning atmosphere... is positively... appetizing!
He folded the paper down... revealing his full smile... and eyes staring straight at Charlie.
ALASTOR
I say Charlie is doing the right thing! A grand performance... requires a grand stage! And right now... we are attracting the attention of the most compelling "Lead Actor" in decades!
VAGGIE
(Clenching fists, pointing at Alastor)
See! Charlie! This isn't about "Redemption" for him! It's "Entertainment"! And you're letting him use you... use our hotel... as a front-row ticket to watch Hell burn!
CHARLIE
(Confused, looking between Vaggie and Alastor)
...No... Alastor just... he's just trying to help in his way...
VAGGIE
(Laughing bitterly, shaking head)
...His way... is seeing you fail... or seeing everything "on fire"...
She stared deep into Charlie's eyes...
VAGGIE
...I hope you realize that, Charlie... before that fire... burns us alive.
Vaggie stomped... back to the sofa... grabbed her spear... and turned her back on everyone.
A silence tenser than before... blanketed the lobby...
Only the soft chuckle accompanied by static from Alastor... turning the page to the "Social News" column... could be heard.
Chapter 32: Upper Rank Six and Etiquette
Summary:
While the Hazbin Hotel is already thick with tension, a battle from Heaven is suddenly broadcast live! Vaggie and Charlie witness a shocking truth... Exorcist Angels are being slaughtered, and "something" is turning the holy realm into a hellscape.
But before the shock can fade, a dimensional rift tears open right in the middle of the lobby! Black lightning strikes, bringing with it the form of Kaigaku, the Upper Rank Six demon who was defeated by his junior disciple. He awakens in a rage, viewing everyone around him as an enemy.
The clash begins instantly! Kaigaku unleashes his Thunder Breathing on Vaggie, only to be stopped by Alastor using his "shadows" and terrifying "etiquette." The arrogant demon is pinned in mid-air and forced to face a truth crueler than death... "You are in Hell."
Amidst Kaigaku's confusion and hatred, Charlie makes the most reckless offer of all... "We can help you." Is redemption possible for a demon who craves no mercy? Or is this the start of a new catastrophe for the Hazbin Hotel?
Chapter Text
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Continuous
The atmosphere in the lobby was so heavy it felt suffocating. Vaggie’s words had left an invisible scar in the middle of the room. Charlie pressed her lips together tight, eyes brimming with tears, but she swallowed them down. She turned her back on Vaggie, returning to stare out the window, her small back trembling slightly.
Vaggie stared at that back... Her anger fading, replaced by guilt, but she didn't know what to say to fix it. So she just clutched her spear tighter.
Alastor turned the page of his newspaper with a rustle so loud it was annoying in the silence. His smile seemed to widen... savoring the friction fully.
...Krrrk...
The tube TV in the corner, which Husk had muted and was playing the loop of the "Moon Demon," flickered.
...Krrrk... Krrrk... Krrrk...
HUSK
(Growling)
...Goddammit... piece of junk...
He was about to smack it.
...Krrrk... Krrrk... Krrrk... Krrrk... Krrrk...
The image vanished... replaced by violently twitching black and white static.
...SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!
A high-pitched screech tore through the speakers! It wasn't just loud... it was a sound packed with oppressive energy!
ANGEL DUST
SHIT!!!
Angel yelped, dropping his phone.
Husk flinched, the fur on his back standing up.
Vaggie and Charlie jumped, whipping around to look at the TV.
Only Alastor... froze.
His smile... stiffened.
His signature radio static sound... flared up, overlapping with the screech from the TV... as if trying to "Fight" the alien signal.
...Then an image appeared...
It wasn't 666 News.
The footage was shaky... distorted... bathed in a blinding golden light... It showed architecture they didn't recognize... White... Gold... Clean...
VAGGIE
(Muttering)
That is...
Then they saw it... just for a split second...
...A figure in white armor... with wings... falling... golden blood spraying...
...Cut to a figure sitting amidst ruins... surrounded by a cage of golden light... Looking up... revealing rainbow eyes smiling cheerfully...
...Cut again... to a figure floating in the sky... spreading six pairs of wings shining like the sun...
...Fwip...
The screen went black.
Silence returned to the room... but this time... it was the silence of absolute shock.
...Ding...
The TV turned back on... returning to the muted loop of the "Moon Demon"... as if nothing happened.
Everyone froze.
Angel Dust was the first to recover... He gulped loudly.
ANGEL DUST
(Voice shaking)
...Did you guys... just see what I saw?...
HUSK
(Eyes wide, slamming his glass down)
...That light... That ain't Pentagram City... That... that fucking golden light...
VAGGIE
(Standing rigid, whispering hoarsely with fear)
...Heaven...
Charlie looked at Vaggie... eyes wide with confusion.
CHARLIE
Heaven? Vaggie... what was that... Why... Why are they...
VAGGIE
...They are fighting...
She stared at where the image had been... Her hand shaking on the spear... Fear of the "Moon Demon" vanished instantly... replaced by a dread on a completely different level.
VAGGIE
(Muttering to herself)
...An Exorcist... fell... on their own soil...
No one noticed...
Alastor.
He sat still... the newspaper in his hand crumpled without him realizing.
The smile... remained... but it was empty.
His eyes widened... pupils shrinking to pinpoints... He was staring at the TV... not with amusement...
...But with "Calculation."
This was new data... Data outside the rules... A power he knew... clashing with a power he didn't... on a land that should be immortal.
Vaggie whipped around to face Charlie... Her eyes no longer angry... but sharing panic.
VAGGIE
...Charlie... They aren't just fighting each other...
She remembered those twisted rainbow eyes...
VAGGIE
...There is "Someone else"... up there... There is... "Something"... invading Heaven...
Vaggie's words... "There is 'Something'... invading Heaven..."
The sentence hung in the air... colder and heavier than death.
Charlie trembled... Her whole world was crumbling... The rules she knew her whole life... Hell is below... Heaven is above... Heaven is the winner... the untouchable...
...Now... that rule was torn to shreds.
CHARLIE
(Voice shaking)
...Who... Who could possibly... do that...
HUSK
(Cursing, chugging straight from the bottle)
...Fuck if I know... But whatever the fuck it is... it just punched God in the face...
ANGEL DUST
(All six eyes wide, muttering)
...This is... This is crazy... This is way out of our league...
But the creepiest one... was Alastor.
He wasn't smiling "amusedly" anymore...
He stood up slowly... The crumpled newspaper fell from his hand...
His smile remained... but it had changed... It was the smile of a predator realizing... he wasn't at the top of the food chain anymore... A smile full of caution... and terrifying alertness.
ALASTOR
(Voice... for the first time... devoid of static... clear... and cold)
...The rules... are changing...
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!
Not from the TV...
It was a sound coming from... "Above."
Everyone (including Alastor) looked up at the lobby ceiling instantly!
It was the sound... of air being torn... but different from the dimensional rift they knew... It wasn't silent... It was violent... and charged with electricity.
VAGGIE
WHAT NOW!!!
Vaggie shouted... pointing her spear at the ceiling.
...CRACK... CRACK... KRRRRRASHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
The ceiling above the chandelier... distorted...
Before a pitch-black crack... with "Black Lightning" flashing inside... tore open the empty air!
ALASTOR
(Eyes widening)
...Again!?
But this rift didn't last long... It opened... and "Spat" something out instantly!
UNKNOWN
AAAAAAARGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
A figure plummeted at high speed! He didn't float down gracefully... He wasn't spat out... He "Fell."
CRASHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
The figure slammed into the tea table in the center of the lobby! Wood shattered! Teacups flew everywhere!
...Then the lightning rift... snapped shut instantly... as if it never existed.
Dust settled... revealing the figure of a young man... propping himself up from the wreckage...
He wore a black Demon Slayer uniform... covered by a golden haori... His face had black markings like lightning cracks... Most importantly... he had "Fangs"... and Kanji engraved in his eyes...
"Upper Rank Six."
Kaigaku.
He was panting heavily... his body scarred... some parts burned... He was injured...
...From a "Previous Battle."
KAIGAKU
(Coughing, spitting blood, voice raspy with rage)
...That... that trash... Zenitsu... YOU...
He looked up... confused...
A second ago... he was about to use his final form to kill his disgusting junior...
This second... he was in a strange room... filled with... "Demons"...?
His eyes scanned around...
...A tall pink spider...
...A grumpy winged cat...
...A one-eyed woman with a weird spear...
...A pale woman in a red suit...
...And...
His gaze locked on Alastor... who was grinning...
KAIGAKU
(Roaring, drawing his black Nichirin sword... Black lightning crackling along the blade)
...WHERE THE HELL IS THIS! WHO ARE YOU! IS THIS YOUR BLOOD DEMON ART... YOU TRASH ZENITSU!!!
He crouched low... ready to attack everything in sight instantly.
The hotel lobby... just past the tension of Heaven... had now become a powder keg... with a new Upper Moon visitor.
The silence of shock... was torn apart instantly by the tension of confrontation.
Kaigaku stood in a combat stance... His injured body did nothing to diminish the killing intent radiating from him. Black lightning still crackled across his blade... making a creepy Zzzzt... Zzzzt... sound.
Only one person in the room seemed unfazed by the aura of death.
NIFFTY
(Eyes sparkling, hiding behind a chair leg)
...Ooh... New guy! Dirty! Has blood! Awesome!
HUSK
(Taking a big swig)
...Fuck's sake... Another one fell?... Is this a hotel or a target range...
ANGEL DUST
(Whistling softly)
My... nice bod... A bit... angry though... But hey... we all have bad days...
But Vaggie saw no humor in this... This was a dangerous intruder.
VAGGIE
(Stepping forward, blocking Kaigaku from Charlie, spear raised)
...Who are you...
Kaigaku narrowed his eyes... "One-eyed woman... holding a spear?" ...Confusion turned to rage.
KAIGAKU
(Barking, ignoring the question)
MOVE! YOU FREAKS! TELL ME WHERE YOU HID THAT BASTARD!
He didn't know where "Here" was... He only cared that this was a trick... and he had to kill everything to get out.
CHARLIE
(Stepping out from behind Vaggie, despite Vaggie trying to block her)
Wait! Please! We aren't hiding anyone! You... You're hurt!
Charlie's words... "Hurt"... It was what Kaigaku hated most... It was a symbol of weakness.
KAIGAKU
(Glaring with burning hatred at Charlie)
...Weak...
He saw Zenitsu's face... and "Sensei's" face... superimposed on Charlie's caring expression.
KAIGAKU
...You are all disgusting! Talking about "Righteousness" while being weak yourselves!
He decided... He would destroy everything.
KAIGAKU
...DIE!!!
Thunder Breathing... Second Form... Rice Spirit!
He didn't use the traditional form... It was modified Black Lightning!
In a blink... he lunged... not aiming at Charlie... but at the "Guardian" blocking his path... Vaggie!
The black blade slashed out... creating five arcs of black lightning tearing toward Vaggie in a split second!
It was unbelievably fast!
...CLANGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!!!
The sound of metal hitting metal rang out!
Kaigaku's eyes widened in shock!
Vaggie... was still standing.
She had managed to raise her silver angelic spear... to "Block"... his attack in time!
The massive impact... drove Vaggie sliding back several feet... gouging the wooden floor... Her arms trembling from the shock...
VAGGIE
(Gritting teeth)
...Ugh... You... bastard...
KAIGAKU
(Stunned)
...Impossible... You... How did you block it! That weapon...
The split second of hesitation... was all the Radio Demon needed.
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ...
A screeching static noise... pierced Kaigaku's ears... Louder than his own thunder.
ALASTOR
(Voice loud... cheerful... and full of authority)
...My... My... What a... Sparky... introduction!
Fwip! Fwip! Fwip!
Dozens of dark shadow tentacles... erupted from the floor beneath Kaigaku! Not attacking... but wrapping... binding... grabbing his arms, legs, and torso!
KAIGAKU
(Panicking, roaring)
WHAT THE HELL! LET GO!
Thunder Breathing... Fourth Form... Distant Thunder!
He exploded black lightning from his body... severing the tentacles!
...But... they grew back instantly... and this time... stronger... tighter...
ALASTOR
(Walking out of the shadows tapping his cane... his smile wide and creepy... eyes glowing crimson)
...I admire your... "Energy"... But here...
Alastor's form distorted... growing into a towering demon... Antlers elongating... voice becoming a booming synthesized radio broadcast.
ALASTOR
...We have "Etiquette" regarding indoor voices!
Massive pressure... not just physical... but "Existential" pressure... radiated from Alastor... crushing down on Kaigaku!
Kaigaku... Upper Rank Six... who feared nothing but Muzan...
...Now... he was "Trembling."
What is this power! Not a demon! Not a slayer! It was... ancient... and insane...
Shadow tentacles bound his whole body... lifting him off the ground... His sword dropped from his squeezed hand...
Clang!
KAIGAKU
(Struggling, shouting frantically)
L-Let go! What are you! LET GO!!!
ALASTOR
(Returning to normal instantly, walking close... smiling gently)
...Shhhhh...
He raised a finger to his lips...
ALASTOR
...Like I said... "Etiquette."
Kaigaku was pinned mid-air... helpless...
Charlie stood jaw dropped... Vaggie lowered her spear... looking at Alastor with complex eyes...
In the returning silence... Charlie inhaled deeply...
CHARLIE
(Looking at the pinned Kaigaku, voice shaky... but firm)
...Please... let him down... Alastor...
Alastor turned to Charlie... his smile looking surprised.
CHARLIE
(Stepping forward... facing Kaigaku)
...I... I'm Charlie... This is a hotel... We... We aren't going to hurt you... We just want to... help you.
KAIGAKU
(Stopped struggling, staring at Charlie)
...Help?...
He looked at her like she said the sky was green...
KAIGAKU
(Laughing bitterly)
...The weak... never "Help" anyone...
He looked past her at Vaggie... and Alastor...
KAIGAKU
...They only... "Survive"... by clinging to the strong...
The words... filled with deep-rooted hatred... created a new kind of silence in the lobby.
CHARLIE
(Voice soft, but resolute)
...You're wrong...
KAIGAKU
(Still pinned, snarling)
Hah?
CHARLIE
(Looking up, meeting his eyes)
I said you're wrong! Helping others... isn't weakness! It takes the most courage! Protecting... Believing in someone... That is true strength!
Her idealistic words... made Kaigaku laugh maniacally.
KAIGAKU
(Laughing shaking)
HA! HAHAHA! Idealist! You fool! That courage you talk about... is just an excuse for losers who can't stand on their own! In my world... only the strong survive! The weak deserve to die!
VAGGIE
(Interjecting coldly)
Then you should have died a long time ago.
Kaigaku whipped his head to look.
Vaggie stepped beside Charlie... Her spear glowing faintly... Arms still shaking... but standing firm.
VAGGIE
You talk about the weak... But just now... this "Weakling"... just blocked your attack... you bastard Upper Rank.
The words "Upper Rank" slipped out... It was what she saw engraved in his eyes...
Kaigaku froze!
VAGGIE
(Turning to Alastor, not leaving eyes off Kaigaku)
Alastor... keep him like that... If he thinks this place is full of weaklings... let him learn what "Stronger" looks like.
ALASTOR
(Smiling wide... truly entertained)
...My... My... Such a... dark philosophy... but intriguing! "Only the strong survive"...
He walked closer to Kaigaku... staring deep into those furious eyes...
ALASTOR
(Voice normal, but tricky)
...Such a... "Fitting" perspective... for this place...
He emphasized the last words...
Kaigaku... struggling... stopped.
...This place?...
He looked at Alastor...
KAIGAKU
...You... You said... "This place"... What does that mean...
ALASTOR
(Tilting head, feigning surprise)
Oh my... You haven't realized? You were so busy raging at the hosts... you forgot to look around...
Kaigaku looked around again... This time... he really "Saw."
He saw Angel Dust... with four arms... and spider-like features...
He saw Husk... a winged cat...
He saw Niffty... a small one-eyed creature staring at him hungrily...
He saw Vaggie... one eye... and that weird spear...
And he saw Alastor... a man with a perpetual smile... and disgusting shadow power...
KAIGAKU
(Voice shaking... for the first time... not with anger)
...This... This isn't... This isn't the Infinity Castle... That Zenitsu... Where did he send me...
CHARLIE
This is Hell.
Charlie's voice... soft... but heavy...
Kaigaku whipped back to her.
CHARLIE
(Stepping closer)
You are in Pentagram City... In the Pride Ring... You are in... Hell.
...Hell...
The word... drove deep into Kaigaku's consciousness...
Am I dead? Did I lose to that trash?
No... I'm not dead... I can feel it... The wounds from Zenitsu still hurt...
KAIGAKU
(Violently confused)
Hell?... LIE! I'm not dead! I am a Demon! I am Upper Rank! That person... Muzan-sama...
ALASTOR
(Interrupting with a chuckle)
...Muzan?... Sounds familiar... like... a spice perhaps?...
KAIGAKU
(Roaring)
SHUT UP!!!
His anger returned... but this time... it was anger born of confusion and... fear.
KAIGAKU
This isn't Hell! You are just... Mutant Demons! Send me back! Send me back now! I will go kill him!
CHARLIE
(Shaking head slowly)
We can't do that... We don't even know where you came from... But...
She inhaled deeply... offering the wildest proposal again...
CHARLIE
...But since you are here... Since you... fell to Hell... We can help you.
Kaigaku stared at her... An Upper Rank demon... bound... injured... and confused... staring at the Princess of Hell... who was offering "Redemption"... to a soul who hated mercy... more than death itself.
Chapter 33: House Rules and A Complete Tragedy
Summary:
Tensions at the Hazbin Hotel reach a breaking point when Kaigaku rejects redemption and threatens to kill Charlie! This brazen act provokes the wrong demon: Alastor. The Radio Demon decides to teach him some "manners," using his shadow powers to crush the Upper Rank demon into submission, forcing Kaigaku to pitifully accept the offer of residency.
But the chaos is far from over... A dimensional rift tears open once more, accompanied by a blood-curdling scream! Zenitsu plummets down, barely clinging to life after being struck by Kaigaku's black lightning.
When these eternal rivals reunite in Hell... hatred erupts instantly! Kaigaku wastes no time, lunging to finish off his unconscious junior. However, Alastor intervenes, twisting the situation into "The Perfect Tragedy."
Now, the Hazbin Hotel has transformed into a cold battlefield for two Thunder Breathers, with Charlie caught in the middle attempting to redeem them both... all amidst Alastor’s amused laughter!
Chapter Text
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Continuous
Charlie's offer... "We can help you"...
It was the most innocent thing Kaigaku had heard in his entire life...
...And the most repulsive.
He froze for a moment... before a dry, bitter laugh erupted from his throat.
KAIGAKU
(Laughing, shoulders shaking)
Ha... Ha... HAHAHA! "Help"?! Help me!?
He glared at Charlie... his Upper Rank Six eyes filled with utter disdain.
KAIGAKU
You stupid woman! Look at me! Look at yourselves! "Help" is just a pretty word losers use to delude themselves! It's what the weak... beg for... right before they get crushed!
CHARLIE
(Not backing down, though the words stung)
...That's not true...
KAIGAKU
(Shouting, struggling against the shadow tentacles)
It IS the truth! I've seen it my whole life! Only the strong take everything! Those who wait for "help"... deserve to be trampled! Like that trash Zenitsu! Like that old fool Jigoro! And like...
He swept his gaze across the room...
KAIGAKU
...Like all of you!
VAGGIE
CHARLIE! THAT'S ENOUGH!
Vaggie snapped! She couldn't listen anymore. She stepped fully in front of Charlie... spear pointed straight at Kaigaku.
VAGGIE
You're wasting your time! He isn't "lost"! He's just another asshole who thinks he's the center of the universe! He doesn't want help... he wants a beating!
KAIGAKU
(Sneering... looking amused for the first time)
...Oh? Finally, someone making sense... That's right... One-eye...
He struggled against the grip... but Alastor's shadows only tightened.
KAIGAKU
(Turning to Alastor)
...Let me down... you red clown... And I'll show you... what real power looks like... I'll start by...
He shot a murderous glare back at Charlie...
KAIGAKU
...Ripping that optimistic bitch apart first!
...Silence...
Alastor's smile... usually one of amusement... suddenly "Froze."
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ...
Static noise... erupted... piercing eardrums...
ALASTOR
(Voice... now... distorted... layered with aggressive radio waves)
...Ah... Ah... Ah... It seems... our guest... doesn't understand the "Rules" of this establishment...
KAIGAKU
...Ghk... AAAAAARGHHH!!!
Kaigaku screamed!
The shadow tentacles binding him... didn't just "hold"... they "Squeezed"! Shadow claws hidden within... dug into his skin! The black lightning that crackled before... winked out... completely suppressed by a superior force!
He felt it... his power... was being "Drained"... or "Crushed"... by this demon!
ALASTOR
...Threats... especially threats against the "Proprietor"...
He glanced at Charlie... smiled... then turned back to stare at Kaigaku with eyes burning crimson...
ALASTOR
...Are considered... extremely... Rude.
CHARLIE
ALASTOR! STOP!!!
Charlie shouted!
Alastor paused... the squeezing eased slightly... but he kept Kaigaku pinned...
CHARLIE
(Panting, looking at Alastor with gratitude and rebuke)
...That's enough! You're going to kill him! That's not our way!
VAGGIE
(Scowling)
...Charlie... he deserves it...
CHARLIE
NO!
She turned back to Kaigaku... who was now gasping for air... His fierce eyes... now showed genuine panic... He knew he lost... not just lost... but was completely helpless...
CHARLIE
(Gathering herself)
...We... are not going to kill you... Alastor... let him down...
Alastor stared at Charlie for a moment... his smile returning to normal... as if weighing the fun of torture... against keeping his "deal."
ALASTOR
(Feigning a sigh)
...Hmph... As you wish... my dear...
The shadows released instantly... Not gently... but "Throwing" Kaigaku across the lobby into the opposite wall!
CRASH!!!
Kaigaku crumbled to the floor... Wounds from Zenitsu... mixed with bruises from Alastor's grip... left him barely able to move...
He tried to push himself up... but could only kneel... panting heavily... staring at the wooden floor with empty eyes...
...Lost...
...Again...
...Lost to something he didn't even understand...
HUSK
(Sliding a cheap glass of booze down the bar... it stopped at the edge)
...Heh...
He said nothing else... but the gesture was clear...
Kaigaku looked up at the group standing there...
...The naive princess...
...The one-eyed woman stronger than she looked...
...And...
...That Radio Demon... smiling like it was all a joke...
He was surrounded... injured... trapped...
...And worst of all... he was "Weak."
CHARLIE
(Walking slowly towards him, Vaggie flanking her immediately)
...I'm sorry he was rough... but you have to understand... there are rules here...
She knelt down... trying to meet his eyes...
CHARLIE
...I don't know what you've been through... or who this "Muzan" is... but here... you have a choice... You don't have to fight... You can...
Kaigaku slapped her hand away... Hard!
KAIGAKU
(Voice raspy, but full of hate)
...Don't... touch me...
He forced himself up... stumbling... leaning against the wall...
KAIGAKU
...What do you want... What is this "Hotel" anyway...
CHARLIE
(Smiling... though forced)
...It's a place... to give sinners a chance... at redemption... to go to Heaven.
Kaigaku stared at her...
...Then he laughed again...
But this time... it wasn't angry laughter...
It was the laughter of someone hearing the most "Ridiculous" thing in their life.
KAIGAKU
...Redemption?... Heaven?...
He glanced at the TV... still looping the "Moon Demon" footage...
KAIGAKU
...In a Hell full of freaks like that?...
He shook his head...
KAIGAKU
...You are all... insane... Completely insane...
Kaigaku's manic laughter faded... leaving only heavy breathing... and eyes full of confusion and disdain.
He leaned against the wall... broken, defenseless... surrounded by things he didn't comprehend.
CHARLIE
(Standing firm, despite her fear)
...I know it sounds crazy... but here... we believe in second chances... No matter who...
VAGGIE
ENOUGH, CHARLIE!
Vaggie stepped in decisively... She had enough.
VAGGIE
(Facing Charlie, voice stressed)
...Didn't you hear him! "Redemption"?! "Heaven"?! Look at him! He's a killer! He just tried to kill us!
She pointed her spear at Kaigaku...
VAGGIE
...And besides that... did you forget just now! The TV! Heaven! The whole world is falling apart! We have a "Moon Demon" roaming outside... We have "Something" invading Heaven... And now... we have "THIS" falling through our ceiling!
She pointed at the small hole the rift left...
VAGGIE
...This isn't a coincidence, Charlie! This is an invasion! And you're inviting him for tea!?!
The tension regarding the three "Visitors"... connected perfectly...
Kaigaku... confused... paused... "Moon Demon"? "Invading Heaven"? ...What are they talking about...
Charlie closed her eyes... inhaled deeply... gathering all her courage...
...Then she opened them... facing Vaggie.
CHARLIE
(Voice shaking... but firm)
...That's exactly... why we have to do it...
VAGGIE
(Stunned)
...What?...
CHARLIE
...If the world is breaking... if everything is getting worse... the only thing we can do... is hold on to what we believe! And I believe...
She turned back to Kaigaku... who looked at her like she was an alien...
CHARLIE
...I believe everyone... even the most broken and lost... deserves a chance...
She pursed her lips... before making the craziest offer...
CHARLIE
...We have a vacancy... If you want it...
...Silence...
Kaigaku stared...
Angel Dust dropped his jaw... "Is she... serious..."
Husk rolled his eyes... chugging his bottle again...
VAGGIE
(Sounding like she was suffocating)
...Charlie... Don't...
CHARLIE
(Ignoring her, staring at Kaigaku)
...It's not entirely free... You have to follow the rules... No killing... No hurting other guests... or staff... (She glanced at Alastor)... And... you have to try...
Kaigaku stared at her... then glanced at Vaggie... aiming a spear at him...
...Then at Alastor... smiling... a smile that said clearly... if he refused... or did anything stupid... he wouldn't just be "injured"...
Kaigaku's philosophy was... "Only the strong survive"...
And in this situation... he knew... he was the "Weakest" in the room...
Survival... meant accepting this disgusting offer...
KAIGAKU
(Scoffing)
...Tch... "Chance"...
He pushed off the wall painfully... using his sword (which he grabbed unnoticed) as a cane...
KAIGAKU
(Staring at Charlie coldly)
...I don't want your "Redemption"...
He glanced at Alastor...
KAIGAKU
...But I... don't want to die yet...
He accepted... not with words... but by not refusing...
CHARLIE
(Smiling through tears... a bitter victory)
...Okay... Okay... So... Deal...
She looked around...
CHARLIE
Niffty!
Zip!
Niffty appeared in front of Kaigaku instantly... staring at his wounds with sparkling eyes...
NIFFTY
Man! Dirty! Injured! Clean now! Or bleed more!
KAIGAKU
(Recoiling... looking at the small creature with disgust)
...What the hell...
CHARLIE
...Niffty... take... our new guest... to Room 204 please... And... help find... a first aid kit for him...
NIFFTY
(Shaking with joy)
Got it! Follow me, Dirty Man! This way! This way!
Niffty zoomed off... Kaigaku hesitated... looked at everyone one last time... then decided... gritted his teeth... and limped after the small creature...
As he was about to round the corner...
ALASTOR
(Voice cheerful... but chilling... right next to his ear... though standing still)
...Welcome to the Hotel... Valued Guest...
Kaigaku jumped... whipped around... saw no one nearby...
ALASTOR
(Voice normal from his spot, waving)
...Do enjoy your stay!
Kaigaku turned back... and limped away quickly...
...Once he was gone...
Vaggie turned on Charlie immediately...
VAGGIE
(Voice shaking with rage... and fear)
...Charlie... What the fuck did you just do... You just gave a room key... to a demon from nowhere... who explicitly said... "I'll rip you apart"...
CHARLIE
(Watching where Kaigaku went, eyes determined)
...He's just... scared... Vaggie...
VAGGIE
Scared! He hates us!
CHARLIE
(Meeting Vaggie's eyes)
...He's like most people here... He just never knew "Kindness"...
She paused...
CHARLIE
...And I... am going to teach him.
VAGGIE
(Lowering voice... fury still palpable)
...Do you hear yourself, Charlie? "Teach him kindness"? That guy... looked at you like you were his next "meal"!
ANGEL DUST
(Leaning on the bar, arms crossed)
...Honestly... One-eye is right, Princess... I know... "Sadists"... But that guy... he isn't just a sadist... He "Hates"... He hates everything that moves... especially us.
HUSK
(Wiping a glass... too hard... almost breaking it)
...You guys are missing the point...
Everyone looked at Husk.
HUSK
(Looking at the hole in the ceiling)
...The point isn't who he is... The point is... "Where did he come from"...
He looked at the TV... still looping the "Moon Demon"...
HUSK
...Suddenly we have a six-eyed guy wrecking The Vees... then weird signals from "Heaven"... and now... we have this lightning guy falling on our heads... You don't see a pattern?
ALASTOR
(Smiling in the corner)
...Oh... I see it clearly... my drunken feline friend...
He tapped his cane.
ALASTOR
...It is Chaos! It is Change! It is the debut of new actors shaking up this boring board! It is...
He spread his arms...
ALASTOR
...Entertainment... at its finest!
VAGGIE
(Growling)
This isn't entertainment! Alastor! This is the beginning of the end! Something... or someone... is throwing these dangerous things... into our world! Like they are... testing something...
CHARLIE
(Pale)
...Testing?...
That thought... plunged the already bad atmosphere... into darkness.
What if it wasn't an accident? What if they were just rats in a cage... being fed new prey to fight?
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!
A sound... the same sound...
Coming from... "The same place"...
Everyone froze...
ANGEL DUST
(Looking up at the ceiling slowly... looking ready to cry)
...No... No... Don't tell me...
VAGGIE
(Raising spear... shaking)
...It... It's happening again!
...CRACK... !!!
The same dimensional rift... black lightning crackling... tore open the exact same spot! Above the wreckage of the table!
ALASTOR
(Smile frozen... even he was getting bored of this)
...This is... getting... repetitive...
The rift opened...
And a scream... completely different from Kaigaku's... erupted!
Not a roar of rage... but a scream of... absolute "Terror"!
UNKNOWN
AAAAAAARGHHHHH!!!
UNKNOWN
"IT HURTS! I CAN'T TAKE IT! KAIGAKU! YOU TRAITOR! WHY DID YOU DO THISSSSSSSS!!!"
A figure fell through the rift...
CRASHHHHHHH!!!
He slammed into the same broken table Kaigaku just destroyed... sending remaining splinters flying again!
...Then the rift closed...
Dust settled...
Revealing a young man... in a similar black slayer uniform... covered by a yellow triangle-patterned haori... orange-yellow hair...
Zenitsu Agatsuma.
He lay on the floor... trembling... and crucially... he was critically injured!
Black scorch marks... shaped like lightning... streaked across his chest and shoulder... Wounds... from Kaigaku's black thunder!
Zenitsu shook... tears and snot streaming down his face...
ZENITSU
(Sobbing, eyes closed)
...Hurts... It hurts so much... Gramps... I can't do it... I can't beat him... I'm gonna die... I'm definitely gonna die...
He slowly peeled open his tear-blurred eyes...
...And saw...
...A four-armed spider...
...A grumpy winged cat...
...A one-eyed woman with a weird spear...
...A pale woman in red...
...And...
His gaze locked on Alastor... smiling wide... red eyes glowing... savoring this new chaos.
Zenitsu's fear... broke the limit.
ZENITSU
(New scream, pointing at Alastor)
GYAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!! MONSTERS! DEMONS EVERYWHERE! THIS IS HELL! I'M DEAD! I'M REALLY DEAD! GRAMPS!!! I'M SORRYYYYYY!
His high-pitched scream echoed through the lobby...
ANGEL DUST
"JESUS!" Angel shouted... covering all four ears. "Someone gag him! My ears are bleeding!"
Zenitsu ignored them... hyperventilating... scrambling backward in terror...
ZENITSU
Demons! All demons! Save me!
CHARLIE
(Stepping forward instantly)
No! Wait! Calm down! We won't hurt you! You're safe!
Zenitsu paused... seeing Charlie's "friendly" face...
ZENITSU
(Sobbing)
...Eh?...
But then... his eyes drifted past Charlie... to Alastor...
ZENITSU
GYAAAAHHH! HIM! THAT GUY! HE'S GONNA EAT ME! HELP!!!
Before his scream could finish...
...BANG!!!
A louder sound... from upstairs!
A door slammed open violently... followed by a roar of pure fury...
KAIGAKU (V.O.)
THAT VOICE... THAT DAMN VOICE!!!
KAIGAKU (V.O.)
ZENITSU!!! YOU... YOU FOLLOWED ME HERE!!!
The roar echoed from the hallway...
...Silence...
Zenitsu's scream cut off... like a switch flipped.
He stopped shaking...
Fear of the demons in front of him... vanished... replaced by a specific, deep-rooted terror...
ZENITSU
(Voice shaking, barely audible)
...No... No way...
He slowly turned to the sound...
ZENITSU
...That voice...
...THUD! THUD! THUD! THUD!
Heavy, furious footsteps... coming closer from upstairs...
ZENITSU
(Eyes wide... sweating buckets)
...Kai... Kaigaku...
He was in Hell... surrounded by demons... and now... his nemesis he just "killed" (or thought he killed)... was walking down to him...
It was the worst nightmare imaginable...
VAGGIE
(Turning, aiming spear at stairs)
...Damn it... He's back!
ANGEL DUST
Wow... This is... a reunion that makes me want to puke...
CHARLIE
(Looking at trembling Zenitsu, then the stairs)
...They... know each other?
ALASTOR
(Grinning ear to ear... eyes shining)
...Haha! Not just know each other... Miss Charlie...
He tapped his cane...
ALASTOR
...This is a complete "Tragedy"!
Zenitsu... with the last strength born of fear... tried to stand... but the black lightning wound on his chest... forced him down...
He looked up at the stairs... and the demons surrounding him...
ZENITSU
(Muttering, tears flowing)
...Impossible... Can't do it... I'm gonna die... I'm gonna die here...
...Overwhelmed by stress, pain, and terror...
...His eyes rolled back...
...And he passed out... slumping onto the table wreckage again.
CHARLIE
He passed out!
KAIGAKU
MOVE!!!
Kaigaku's voice boomed... before he burst onto the landing!
No haori... upper body bare... showing wounds crudely "bandaged" by Niffty...
KAIGAKU
(Panting, staring down at Zenitsu's motionless body)
...You...
VAGGIE
(Stepping between stairs and Zenitsu)
...Stop right there! Asshole!
KAIGAKU
(Ignoring Vaggie, staring at Zenitsu)
...He's not dead... He's not dead! That trash...
He snarled... and prepared to launch...
KAIGAKU
...You... You have to die...
Thunder Breathing!
He stomped on the step... launching himself down... not at Vaggie... but over her... at the defenseless Zenitsu!
CHARLIE
NO!!!
VAGGIE
(Panicking)
...He's ignoring me!
She tried to block... but Kaigaku was faster...
...Faster than everyone...
...Except one...
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!
Static screeching louder than Zenitsu's scream!
ALASTOR
(Not moving, voice echoing everywhere)
...I... am starting to dislike... rude guests...
WHAM!!!
Kaigaku... mid-air... hit a "Wall"!
...Not tentacles...
...But he crashed into a "Wall of Shadow"... formed instantly... between him and Zenitsu!
THUD!
Kaigaku fell to the floor... winded... and confused...
KAIGAKU
What now!
But creepier... was what happened to Zenitsu...
...Shadow tentacles... gently scooped Zenitsu's unconscious body... from the wreckage...
...And "Pulled" him... floating through the air... back to Alastor...
The shadows positioned Zenitsu gently... like a puppet... floating beside Alastor...
ALASTOR
(Tapping cane, smiling wide... absolute winner)
...It seems... we have a medical emergency...
He looked at Kaigaku... getting up... staring at Zenitsu now being Alastor's "Hostage"... with burning eyes.
ALASTOR
...I must... "Keep" this guest in a safe place... before his "Old Friend"... does anything "Impolite" again.
KAIGAKU
(Baring fangs, gripping sword)
...Put him down...
ALASTOR
(Chuckling)
...Oh... I can't do that... This is a "Guest"... and it is my duty... to ensure the safety... of Miss Charlie's "Investment."
He emphasized "Investment."
CHARLIE
Alastor! Enough! Put him down! He's hurt!
ALASTOR
(Smiling at Charlie... "Gentle"... but eyes cold)
...Of course, my dear...
Shadows gently placed Zenitsu on a non-broken sofa...
...But the "Shadow Wall"... separating Kaigaku from the others... remained.
ALASTOR
(Turning to Kaigaku, alone on the other side)
...Now... Angry Guest... I offer a new choice...
His voice returned to normal... but laced with the power Kaigaku tasted.
ALASTOR
...One: You return to Room 204... Rest... and be "Nice"...
He smiled...
ALASTOR
...Or Two: ...I will "Help" you back myself... And I assure you... those cute bandages... won't be enough.
Kaigaku shook with rage... He glanced at unconscious Zenitsu... then glared at Alastor...
He hated this feeling... "Weakness"... Being controlled...
But he knew... he had no choice...
KAIGAKU
(Spitting blood on floor)
...Tch!...
He turned sharply... stomping back up the stairs...
...SLAM!!!
Door slammed shut upstairs... followed by sounds of destruction in Room 204!
Once Kaigaku was gone... the Shadow Wall... dissolved...
Silence... returned...
Only Charlie's panting... and faint groans of pain... from Zenitsu stirring on the sofa...
ANGEL DUST
(Whistling)
...Wow... This drama is heavier than when my dad caught me sleeping with his business rival...
VAGGIE
(Lowering spear... standing guard near Zenitsu)
...Great...
She spoke sarcastically...
VAGGIE
...Just great... We have two lightning demons... who want to kill each other... under the same roof...
She looked at Charlie... with exhausted eyes...
VAGGIE
...Is this... the "Redemption" you were talking about... Charlie?
Chapter 34: Migration and First Form
Summary:
Pentagram City is gripped by terror!
The Vees uncover the chilling truth: the arrival of the "Moon Demons" and the explosive energy surge in Heaven were no accident. They mark the "Migration" of powerful entities from another dimension! Velvette captures footage of Kaigaku and Zenitsu crash-landing at the Hazbin Hotel and decides to launch a massive surveillance operation.
Back at the hotel, the situation reaches a critical point!
Kaigaku, though recently subdued, lunges to attack the unconscious Zenitsu. But then, a miracle occurs! Zenitsu rises in his sleep-state, fighting on pure instinct. Thunder Breathing: First Form clashes against the Upper Rank’s black lightning—all while Alastor laughs, reveling in the chaos of the conflict!
With two lightning wielders forced under the same roof and The Vees watching their every move... will the Hazbin Hotel become a fortress or a graveyard? And will Vox discover the weaknesses of these "visitors" before they tear Hell apart?
Chapter Text
Interior - Vox's Penthouse, VOXTEK ENTERPRISES - Night
...Whirrr! Bang! Clash!
The sounds of power drills, hammers striking metal, and imp technicians cursing filled the air.
The penthouse, once a temple of technology, was now a chaotic construction site.
The main screen wall, which used to broadcast Vox’s face across the city, was shattered into a gaping hole, revealing charred internal structures. Technicians were frantically trying to fuse thousands of severed cables, sparks flying continuously.
Vox was not standing in the center of the room...
He was "Limited."
His sleek flat-screen head... had been removed for repairs. Connected to his neck now... was a "Backup Monitor"... an old, bulky CRT TV... displaying his digital face in low resolution, with static lines running through it periodically.
He hated it... It was a symbol of defeat.
VOX
(Digital voice raspy and glitching)
...Faster... Faster... FASTER, DAMMIT! You useless fucks! My main feed needs to be back online... NOW!
Valentino leaned against a wall that wasn't destroyed... crushing his tenth cigarette. Pink heart-shaped smoke drifted up... but his face showed zero pleasure.
VALENTINO
(Growling)
...You only care about your "Screen"... Vox... Do you care about what the fuck is happening out there!
VOX
(Whipping around, CRT flickering)
I DO care! That "Moon Demon" piece of shit... ruined my image! He made me look weak!
VALENTINO
(Slapping the wall)
Your image?! What about my "Business"?! That bastard scared the shit out of the whole city! No one dares to come out! No one dares to "Play"! My studio is dead quiet! Your ratings... and MY money... are diving into double-Hell together!
VOX
That's because I don't have a screen to broadcast! If I get back online... I will...
VELVETTE
WILL YOU TWO SHUT THE FUCK UP!!!
Velvette shouted. She stood in front of a large tablet screen her minions carried in... Her face... usually full of sass and boredom... was now stressed like never before.
VELVETTE
...Stop yapping about "Ratings" and "Image"... and look at THIS...
VALENTINO
I'm not in the mood for your new fashion trends, Vel...
VELVETTE
(Snapping)
It's not fashion! You old pimp! It's the "End of the World" you two are ignoring!
She slapped the screen.
The first image appeared... It was a visual of violent energy waves she intercepted... The same image the Hazbin Hotel saw... The battle in Heaven.
VOX
(Monitor flickering violently... static hissing)
...Signal... Interference... That is... Holy Energy... Intense... Too intense...
VELVETTE
Yes... That is happening... in Heaven... While you sit here fixing your TV... Someone... or Something... is waging "War" on the angels...
VALENTINO
(Eyes wide)
...That's insane...
VELVETTE
(Swiping screen... changing image)
...And it's not over...
The second image appeared... Low-quality CCTV footage... she "stole" from a security camera of a bar... directly "Opposite" the Hazbin Hotel.
It was the footage of Kaigaku... and Zenitsu... falling from the sky... minutes apart.
VELVETTE
...And while Heaven is burning... TWO more mysterious "Visitors"... fell into Pentagram City... straight into...
She zoomed in on the hotel sign...
VELVETTE
...Lucifer's daughter's shitty hotel.
Silence blanketed the room filled with construction noise...
The Vees looked at each other.
VALENTINO
(Gulping)
...Three... no... four of them... (Counting the one in Heaven)... fell from the sky...
VOX
(Voice glitching heavily)
...This isn't... an attack...
VELVETTE
(Staring intently at the screen... at Kaigaku and Zenitsu)
...No...
She looked up... meeting the eyes of the other two Vees... Her gaze cold.
VELVETTE
...This is a "Migration."
VELVETTE
...The rules are changing...
VELVETTE
...And the worst part...
She stared at Vox...
VELVETTE
...Is that we... know absolutely nothing about it...
VOX
(Staring back... digital face on CRT twisting with rage surpassing his defeat by Kokushibo)
...I...
He was the Overlord of Information...
VOX
...I NEED TO BE ONLINE... NOW!!!
He roared at the technicians... who worked trembling with fear...
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Continuous
Vaggie's exhausted question... "This is... the 'Redemption' you were talking about... Charlie?"... still hung in the air.
Charlie had no answer...
She could only look at Zenitsu's unconscious form... slumped on the sofa... then up to the second floor... where the sounds of destruction had quieted... leaving only Kaigaku's eerie silence.
Her attempt to save the world... had turned into a hospitality nightmare.
ANGEL DUST
(Blowing on his nails)
...Alright... since the "Sibling Drama" is paused...
He looked at Zenitsu... blood now seeping from the burn wounds on his chest... staining the sofa.
ANGEL DUST
...What do we do with "Crybaby" here? Let him bleed out on the furniture... or toss him outside for the bounty hunters looking for Six-Eyes... as a "Bonus"?
CHARLIE
(Gasping, turning sharply)
Angel! We don't do that!
She rushed to Zenitsu... kneeling beside the sofa...
CHARLIE
Oh god... He's really hurt... These wounds...
VAGGIE
(Following, but keeping distance... spear still raised)
...Charlie... careful... He has a sword too...
Charlie looked at the Nichirin blade at Zenitsu's waist... but shook her head.
CHARLIE
...Look at him, Vaggie... He... He is completely different from Kaigaku... He doesn't "Hate"... He's just... "Scared"...
A soft groan escaped Zenitsu's throat... Still unconscious... but his body trembled with pain and fear...
CHARLIE
(Voice softening)
...We can't leave him like this...
ALASTOR
(Walking closer, tapping his cane, smiling wide)
...My... What a pathetic... yet interesting sight!
He used the tip of his cane... to poke Zenitsu's yellow triangle-patterned haori...
ALASTOR
...One is "Hatred" ready to explode... The other is "Cowardice" screaming... What a wonderfully balanced duo!
He chuckled softly...
ALASTOR
...I truly wonder... what would happen if we locked them in a room together...
VAGGIE
(Snapping)
Alastor! Shut up! This isn't your "Radio Show"!
She turned back to Charlie... sighing long and hard... surrendering to the Princess's ideals.
VAGGIE
...Ugh... Okay... Okay... We'll "Help" him...
She pointed at Husk...
VAGGIE
Husk! Get the first aid kit!
HUSK
(Rolling eyes)
...Why me...
VAGGIE
(Growling)
GO-GET-IT!!!
Husk flinched... before stomping off behind the bar...
Vaggie turned back... staring at Zenitsu...
VAGGIE
...But... we need to disarm him first...
She reached out a gloved hand... toward Zenitsu's sword hilt...
VAGGIE
...I won't allow two samurai swords running loose in this hotel...
...But the moment her fingertips were about to touch the hilt...
...ZAP!!!
A small spark of golden lightning... flashed from Zenitsu's hand... shocking Vaggie's hand hard!
VAGGIE
(Yelping, pulling hand back)
...AH! SHIT!
She shook her hand... faint gray smoke rising...
CHARLIE
(Shocked)
Vaggie!
ALASTOR
(Raising an eyebrow... smile turning into genuine surprise)
...Oh?...
Everyone stared at Zenitsu...
He was still unconscious...
...But his breathing... changed...
It wasn't fearful panting anymore...
...Suuuuuuuuuuuuuuu...
It was a breath... deep... long... and rhythmic...
...As if... "Sleeping".
Husk returned with the kit... stopping dead when he saw lightning still crackling around Zenitsu's hand gripping the sword.
HUSK
...Okay... what fresh hell is this...
ALASTOR
(Leaning in close, staring at Zenitsu's sleeping face)
...Interesting... Truly interesting...
He smiled at Charlie...
ALASTOR
...It seems your cowardly "Lamb"...
His eyes glowed red...
ALASTOR
...Hides "Fangs" sharper... than his angry friend...
VAGGIE
(Glaring at the unconscious boy)
That... that little shit! He's faking it! He shocked me on purpose!
CHARLIE
(Checking Vaggie's hand carefully)
Vaggie! Are you okay! No... no... He's still out cold! Look!
She pointed at Zenitsu... still motionless... tear-stained face... but breathing Suuu... Suuu... deep and weirdly rhythmic... Golden lightning still flickering around his grip.
HUSK
(Dropping the kit on the floor... far from the sofa)
Nope... I'm out... Not touching the walking bug-zapper... You guys handle it.
ANGEL DUST
(Backing away)
Yeah... I like getting "Shocked"... but not like this...
ALASTOR
(Chuckling low, eyes gleaming with curiosity)
...Haha... Fascinating! Truly fascinating! A defense mechanism during sleep! What a... useful trait!
VAGGIE
(Snapping)
This isn't time to be "Fascinated", Alastor! What do we do! We can't leave him bleeding here... while being an electric trap!
ALASTOR
(Grinning)
...Now, now... Don't be hasty, darling... We just need to... "Test"... how it works...
CHARLIE
Alastor! Don't!
Too late...
Alastor didn't use his hand... He slowly extended his "Microphone Cane"... slowly...
...And touched the tip... to Zenitsu's injured shoulder...
...KRA-KOOOOOOOOM!!!
It wasn't a small spark anymore!
Golden lightning, ten times stronger... exploded from Zenitsu... shot up Alastor's cane... and shocked him full force!
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!
Alastor's body convulsed violently! The lobby lights flickered! And his signature radio static... screeched painfully loud... before distorting into the scream of static electricity!
ALASTOR
Ghk...!
The Radio Demon... was knocked back a step...
He stood... but his smile... "Twitched."
ALASTOR
(Brushing smoke off his suit)
...Oh... Dear me...
He looked at Zenitsu... with changed eyes... Not just curiosity... but "Impression."
...But that attack... had "Woken" something...
...Suuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu...
A deep, long breath...
...Then...
...Zenitsu... sat up...
His eyes were still... closed tight...
Panic... Cowardice... all gone... Left with a face calm... but tense...
The lobby went silent...
ANGEL DUST
(Whispering)
...Fuck... Is he... sleepwalking?...
ZENITSU
(In sleep state, moving)
...
He sat still... then slowly turned his head, eyes shut...
...Toward Charlie...
ZENITSU
(Voice... changed... Deep... calm... serious)
...Sound... It's... strange...
He spoke to himself...
ZENITSU
...Heart sound... beating... weird... It's... warm?... But trembling...
He turned his head to Vaggie...
ZENITSU
...This sound... Angry... Worried... and... Scared... But... Strong...
He turned his head to Alastor...
...And the moment he "Heard" Alastor...
...Zenitsu's body tensed instantly... Hand on sword shaking... Lightning sparking again...
ZENITSU
(Voice cold, frowning)
...This sound... It's... Loud... It's... Distorted... Like... a thousand screams... trying to smile...
ALASTOR
(Raising a brow, smile widening)
...Oho?...
...Then...
Zenitsu turned his head... slowly... staring intently at... the stairs...
Calmness... vanished instantly...
Hand gripping the sword tight... veins popping...
ZENITSU
(Voice shaking... but this time... with "Rage")
...That sound...
...The most disgusting sound...
...Sound of lightning... that "Cries"...
...Sound of... "Traitor"...
...Kaigaku...
He stared at the stairs... as if seeing through the ceiling...
...Suuuuuuuuu...
Zenitsu's deep, rhythmic breathing... was the only thing breaking the silence...
Hand still gripping the hilt... body shaking... not with fear... but suppressed rage...
Then he moved...
He didn't open his eyes... but he stood up... firmly... even though the chest wound still smelled faintly of burning flesh.
ANGEL DUST
"Shit... He's up..." Angel whispered, stepping back.
CHARLIE
(Reaching out... but not daring to touch)
...Wait... You... You're hurt...
Zenitsu (asleep) didn't look at her... ignored her...
His target... clear.
He faced... directly at... the stairs...
VAGGIE
(Seeing what was coming)
No... No... NO! Stop him!
She rushed to block the path between Zenitsu and the stairs... raising her spear in defense...
VAGGIE
Stop right there! I don't know what kind of sleepwalking crap this is... but I'm not letting you go fight up there!
Zenitsu... kept walking... slowly... steadily... as if Vaggie was air.
VAGGIE
(Roaring)
I SAID STOP!
She used the spear shaft... to shove Zenitsu's chest... hoping to stop him...
...ZAP!!!...
The moment the spear touched him... Golden lightning flashed!
ZENITSU
(Voice cold, eyes shut)
...Move...
It was a warning...
VAGGIE
(Gritting teeth, fighting the force)
...Ugh...
She couldn't hold it... The power of this cowardly boy... was immense...
ALASTOR
(Watching from the bar, grinning)
...My... Such determination... Impressive indeed...
He was about to step in... not to help... but to "Play"...
...But he was too late...
...BANGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!!!
Room 204's door... which was just closed... now "Exploded" off its hinges!
KAIGAKU
(Standing at the top of the stairs, shirtless... Black lightning crackling all over him!)
...YOU!!!
He felt it! He felt the familiar Thunder Breathing!
KAIGAKU
(Screaming, voice raspy with fury)
...TRASH! SCUM! YOU DARE USE THAT BREATHING IN FRONT OF ME! YOU ARE DISGUSTING! ALIVE OR DEAD!!!
ZENITSU
(Stopped walking, standing at the foot of the stairs... looking up... eyes closed... toward the voice)
...
Silence...
ZENITSU
(Speaking to himself, voice trembling with cold anger)
...Six forms...
VAGGIE
...What is he saying?...
ZENITSU
...You could use... only five...
He looked up...
ZENITSU
...But I... can use only One...
He slowly... drew the blade from its scabbard...
...KRA-KOOOOOOOOM!!!
The moment the blade cleared the sheath... Golden lightning exploded from him! So bright everyone had to squint! It wasn't sparks anymore... It was a storm!
KAIGAKU
(Smirking, black lightning surrounding him)
...Then let's settle this right here! TRASH! I'll show you... why I am "Upper Rank"...
KAIGAKU
...And you... are just "Dirt"!!!
Kaigaku crouched... ready to launch down...
Zenitsu crouched... ready to launch up...
...The battlefield... moved from the Infinity Castle... to the Hazbin Hotel Lobby...
ALASTOR
(Standing between them, spreading arms... smile widest... eyes burning)
...HAHA! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
His radio laughter... drowned out the thunder of both!
ALASTOR
...Marvelous! Absolutely Marvelous! Two new guests... and an "Unresolved Conflict"!
Pitch black shadow tentacles... shot from the floor... not grabbing anyone... but "Building a Wall" blocking the middle of the stairs...
ALASTOR
...I regret interrupting this exciting "Performance"...
He looked at Kaigaku... then Zenitsu...
ALASTOR
...But this Hotel... has rules... "No property damage"... (He glanced at the broken table)... "Any further"...
...And most importantly...
He smiled... revealing sharp teeth...
ALASTOR
...A great show... shouldn't end too quickly... should it?
...Zap... Zap... KRA-KOOOM...
The air in the lobby... vibrated... War of two energies.
Furious Black Lightning... clashed with Pure Golden Lightning... with Alastor's distorted "Shadow Wall"... standing tall in the middle.
It was surreal.
KAIGAKU
(At the top, roaring)
...You... You dare block my way! MOVE!!!
He didn't wait!
Thunder Breathing... Fifth Form... Heat Lightning!
Multiple bolts of black lightning shot out... not at Zenitsu... but at Alastor's "Shadow Wall"!
...BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!
Explosion!
...But...
...When the smoke cleared...
...The Shadow Wall... stood still... It only "Rippled" slightly... like water... It "Swallowed" the attack... without a scratch.
KAIGAKU
(Eyes wide)
...Im... Impossible...
ALASTOR
(Voice loud... cold... echoing)
...I warned you... about "Etiquette"...
...Suuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu...
Below... Zenitsu (asleep) ignored the wall... still crouching... stance ready...
Thunder Breathing... First Form...
He began to mutter... Golden lightning gathering at his legs... Preparing... for his only move...
CHARLIE
STOP! STOP NOW!!!
CHARLIE
(Unable to take it, running to stand "Between" Alastor and Zenitsu)
...Alastor! Enough! You're provoking them!
She turned to the stairs... even though Kaigaku couldn't see her through the wall...
CHARLIE
...You! Kaigaku! Please stop! And you too... (She turned to Zenitsu)... PLEASE! This hotel is not a battlefield!
ALASTOR
(Looking at Charlie... smile... amused)
...But my dear... This is more "Entertaining" than any play I've seen in my life!
...On the stairs...
Kaigaku stared at the shadow wall he couldn't break...
...He looked down... sensing the Golden Lightning building up insanely behind that wall...
...And he sensed... the terrifying power... of that Radio Demon... controlling this game.
...He was injured...
...He was blocked...
...He was... "Weak" ...again.
Humiliation... stronger than rage.
KAIGAKU
(Gritting teeth... bleeding lip)
...Tch...
He slowly straightened up... Black lightning fading...
KAIGAKU
(Shouting, to no one in particular)
...You... You all... will regret this!
He turned... stomping back to Room 204...
...SLAMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!
Door slammed... followed by a scream of fury... and sound of punching walls...
...Once the threat from above was gone...
Alastor snapped his fingers...
...Poof...
The shadow wall blocking the stairs... dissolved into smoke... vanishing instantly.
...And at the foot of the stairs...
Zenitsu... ready to launch... froze...
...Suuu... Suuu...
His breathing... changed...
The blazing Golden Lightning... slowly sparked... and faded...
Tension on the sleeping face... relaxed...
...Hand on hilt... loosened...
...Then...
...His eyes... blinked...
...He opened them groggily...
World blurred...
He saw Charlie... jaw dropped... "Kind... lady?..."
He saw Vaggie... spear aimed... "Scary... one-eye..."
He saw Angel Dust... "Spider... tall... standing... ahhh..."
And he saw... Alastor... smiling wide... yellow teeth showing... staring at him... like he was dinner...
...Zenitsu... blinked...
...Processing...
...The fact that... this wasn't a nightmare...
ZENITSU
...Eh?...
He opened his mouth...
...And let out a scream... louder than the first time... but this time... it was a REAL scream... from 100% pure terror.
ZENITSU
GYAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!! I'M NOT DEAD?! WHY ARE THERE STILL DEMONSSSSSS!!!
...Then his eyes rolled back...
...And he fainted... slumping onto the sofa again... This time... out cold for real.
Silence... returned to the lobby...
Only faint wall-punching sounds from upstairs... and everyone's exhausted breathing...
HUSK
(Looking at Zenitsu, then his bottle)
...Okay... I need something stronger...
VAGGIE
(Lowering spear, hand on forehead)
...I... I hate this place...
CHARLIE
(Looking at Zenitsu, then upstairs)
...Okay...
She swallowed hard... trying to compose herself.
CHARLIE
...Okay... At least... They are in separate rooms now...
Chapter 35: When the Show Gets Fun
Summary:
One week following the arrival of Kaigaku and Zenitsu, the Hazbin Hotel has transformed into a "prison" under Vaggie’s iron-fisted rule. The two Thunder Demons have been segregated to different floors, yet their mutual hatred continues to smolder intensely.
But then, the truth is laid bare... The hotel is being watched by The Vees at every turn! Enraged, Charlie declares war directly through their surveillance cameras, vowing to protect and redeem her "guests" no matter the cost!
Meanwhile, in Heaven... Sera struggles to conceal the fractures forming within their ranks. The confidence of the victors begins to waver as Lute demands immediate retaliation, while Emily begins to question the very righteousness of Heaven.
Just as tensions reach their breaking point... the dimensional rift tears open once more! This time, it expels two of the strongest Demon Slayers: Tanjiro and Giyu crash-land right onto the roof of the Hazbin Hotel!
A historic collision is about to explode! Can the Hazbin Hotel handle housing both Slayers and Demons under one roof? And how will Tanjiro react when he realizes he is standing in the heart of a "demon's nest"—one that is already home to two of the Upper Moons?
Chapter Text
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - One Week Later
...Silence...
It was a completely different kind of silence. Not the silence of boredom... but the silence of "Walking on Eggshells."
The lobby had been rearranged. The wreckage of the table was replaced by a sturdier one (which Husk bet would be smashed soon anyway). The hole in the ceiling was patched up haphazardly.
But the atmosphere... was what had changed the most.
Vaggie wasn't resting anymore. she was "Patrolling"... constantly... Her angelic spear strapped to her back... ready to be drawn any second. She had unknowingly become a prison warden.
Charlie (looking exhausted but still smiling) stood in front of a whiteboard. The topic "Trust Building Activities" had been erased... and replaced with...
> COMMON AREA SCHEDULE (ABSOLUTELY NO OVERLAPPING!)
>
> * 08:00 - 12:00: Guest Room 301 (Zenitsu)
> * 12:00 - 16:00: Guest Room 204 (Kaigaku)
> * 16:00 - Onwards: Free (BUT NEVER BOTH AT THE SAME TIME!)
>
Currently... it was 10:00 AM.
Zenitsu (bandaged up... likely by himself while conscious) was huddled at the bar counter... shaking an apple juice glass in his hand... flinching at every loud noise.
ZENITSU
(Whispering to Husk, voice trembling)
...I-I... I think I heard him... Was he walking in the hall just now? Is he coming down? IS HE COMING DOWN TO KILL ME!?!
HUSK
(Not looking up, wiping the same glass)
...For the hundredth time, kid... I told you it's your "Time"... The deer locked that asshole in his room until noon... Stop whining and drink your apple juice.
ANGEL DUST
(Lounging on the sofa, filing his nails)
...Ugh... This is more boring than listening to Vox's speeches... How long are we gonna play this "Shift Change" game?
VAGGIE
(Stopping her patrol, glaring at Angel)
...Until I'm sure those two won't tear this hotel to shreds!
CHARLIE
(Walking to the center, trying to mediate)
...Calm down, everyone! It's only been a week! They are... "Adjusting"! I believe if we give them time...
...CRASSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
A sound like an explosion... came from upstairs... from the direction of Room 204...
ZENITSU
GYAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!
Zenitsu screamed his lungs out... dropped his glass... and dove under the bar counter instantly!
ZENITSU
HE'S GONNA KILL ME! HE'S GONNA KILL ME! HE BROKE THE DOOR!!!
ANGEL DUST
(Rolling eyes)
...No... that wasn't a door... That was... the "Wardrobe"... again...
VAGGIE
(Facepalming, shouting upstairs)
...KAIGAKU! If you break one more piece of furniture... I swear I'll make Alastor put you on a diet!!!
...Silence from upstairs...
...Before a furious shout echoed back...
KAIGAKU (O.S.)
...THEN GET THAT TRASH'S WHINING OUT OF MY EARS!!! I'VE BEEN LISTENING TO IT FOR A WEEK! ANNOYING!!!
ALASTOR
(Emerging from a shadowy corner, smiling wide)
...My... My... It seems our "Exposure Therapy"... isn't quite yielding results yet...
He walked to the bar... Husk slid a black coffee to him knowingly.
CHARLIE
(Sighing deeply... visibly tired)
...I don't understand... I tried "Circle Time"... I tried "Group Activities"... (She glanced at the empty whiteboard)... But they won't leave their rooms at the same time...
ALASTOR
(Sipping coffee)
...Naturally, my dear... Lions and Hyenas... don't drink tea in the garden together...
He glanced at a corner of the lobby... near the window...
...A new "Vase"... sat there... looking elegant... and slightly out of place.
ALASTOR
(Smiling... a cold smile)
...Especially... when they know there's an "Audience"... waiting for the show.
VAGGIE
(Whipping around... following Alastor's gaze)
...Audience?...
She walked closer to the vase... squinting...
...And she saw it...
...A tiny red dot... blinking amidst the floral pattern...
...A Camera...
VAGGIE
(Growling)
...Those... Vees...
...Fwip!
She didn't waste words... The angelic spear appeared in her hand...
...SMASHHHHHHHHHH!!!
She swung the spear through the vase... shattering it to dust... revealing the remains of a microchip and lens sparking on the floor...
CHARLIE
(Shocked)
Vaggie!
VAGGIE
(Turning, eyes hard)
...They've been watching us all week... Charlie... They're waiting... waiting for us to slip up... waiting for those two to kill each other...
She stared at the camera debris...
VAGGIE
...This isn't a hotel anymore... It's a "Cage"... with spectators all over Hell.
The shattered remains of the vase... and the destroyed camera... lay scattered on the marble floor.
Vaggie was breathing heavily... her spear trembling... not from fear... but rage.
CHARLIE
(Frozen, voice shaking)
...Watching us?...
She looked at Alastor... who stood smiling... sipping coffee calmly...
CHARLIE
...You... You knew all along?
ALASTOR
(Putting down the cup, voice cheerful)
...Oh, darling... It was clearer than a well-tuned broadcast! (He glanced at the debris)... Although... their equipment is a bit "tacky" for my taste...
VAGGIE
(Turning, growling)
...You knew! You knew they were spying on us... and you let it happen! You let them...
She gestured to the whole lobby...
VAGGIE
...Let them... "Watch" ...us!
HUSK
(Cursing, slamming the counter)
...Damn it... No wonder the regulars have been whispering weird shit... This place has turned into a real circus...
ANGEL DUST
(Sitting up, face changing from bored to panicked)
...Wait... If they are watching... that means... "Val"... is watching...
He gulped... The thought of Valentino watching his every move... made his skin crawl.
ANGEL DUST
...Oh... No... Not good... This is very not good...
...Bump... Bump...
A sound from under the bar...
Zenitsu... who was hiding... slowly poked his yellow head out...
ZENITSU
(Voice shaking, teary-eyed)
...Wh... Why?... Why does everyone sound so... "Tense"? It... It's scarier than... than his voice (Pointing upstairs)...
He heard it... The true fear... hidden under Vaggie's anger... and the anxiety seeping into Angel's voice...
Charlie didn't answer him...
She walked slowly... to the camera debris... bent down... and picked up a shattered lens...
CHARLIE
(Muttering)
...A cage...
VAGGIE
(Voice softening, walking to her)
...Charlie...
CHARLIE
(Looking up, tears welling)
...You were right... Vaggie...
She shook her head...
CHARLIE
...This isn't a hotel... It isn't a safe place... It became... It became a "Show"... They're laughing at us... They're waiting... waiting for me to fail...
Her ideals... were cracking...
ALASTOR
(Walking in, tapping cane)
...That is where you are "Wrong", my dear...
Charlie looked at him...
ALASTOR
...Of course they are watching! Of course they are laughing! They are a disgusting audience!
He stepped forward... his smile showing malice...
ALASTOR
...But you forgot the most important rule of "Show Business"...
He turned to smile at a "Lamp" in the corner... as if knowing another camera was hidden there...
ALASTOR
...The Audience... has no right... to "Control" ...the Director.
ALASTOR
...That is My job.
CHARLIE
...No...
Charlie wiped her tears... stood up.
CHARLIE
...No...
She walked past Alastor...
VAGGIE
(Grabbing her arm)
Charlie! Where are you going!
Charlie shook her off...
She walked straight... to the lamp Alastor looked at...
She knew it was there...
She stopped... staring intently into the shadow of the lamp... as if locking eyes with Vox, Valentino, and Velvette... directly...
CHARLIE
(Voice shaking... but filled with a fury she never had before)
...You guys are watching, aren't you...
ANGEL DUST
...Oh... Shit...
CHARLIE
...You think this is funny! Watching others in pain! Watching them suffer!
She pointed at Zenitsu... shaking under the bar...
CHARLIE
...He is not a clown!
She pointed upstairs...
CHARLIE
...He (Kaigaku)... is not a villain in a drama! They are souls... broken... and lost!
...And I...
Her eyes hardened...
CHARLIE
...I will not let you... use them as "Entertainment"...
She took a deep breath...
CHARLIE
...This Hotel... will remain... And I... will prove to you... that Redemption is "Possible"... no matter how much you spy... or interfere!
She declared war... Charlie Morningstar style...
...In Vox's Penthouse...
Vox, Val, and Velvette... stared at the image from the lamp... staring at Charlie's defiant face...
VELVETTE
(Raising an eyebrow)
...Oh... Little princess... has more "Guts" than I thought...
...Back in the Lobby...
VAGGIE
(Jaw dropped... stunned by Charlie's boldness)
...Charlie...
ALASTOR
(Standing behind her, his smile... widest... ever)
...Haha...
He raised his cane... like a toast...
ALASTOR
...And this... ladies and gentlemen... is when the "Show" ...starts getting "Fun"!
Interior - Court of Judgment, Heaven - One Week Later
The atmosphere in Heaven... had changed.
The golden light, once warm... now felt cold and "Thin"... The eternal choirs still sang... but the key was lower... a melody laced with sorrow.
"Winners" no longer walked freely. They were "advised" to stay in designated "Peace Zones"... "For your own safety."
And most importantly... Exorcists... were everywhere.
Not standing guard gracefully... but tense "Patrols"... Wings spread, spears in hand... They weren't there to "Protect"... but to "Prepare."
...
Interior - Seraphim Council Room
The round hall of crystal and white marble... was empty... and cold.
Only three figures stood there... The tension between them palpable...
Sera stood with her back to the room... staring out at the Heavenly city now filled with her soldiers... Her posture remained calm... but it was the calm of water freezing over.
Emily sat at the giant crystal table... small hands clenched tight... staring at a tiny crack on the table surface... A crack that wasn't there before... made the day Adam wrecked the room.
And the third figure... was Lute.
She stood in the center... One arm missing, replaced by a golden prosthetic... Mask off, revealing a face twisted with vengeance and suppressed rage.
LUTE
(Voice raspy, breaking silence)
One week since a demon from nowhere slaughtered dozens of angels and... Four weeks... Sera... Four weeks... since Adam's body was left below... Four weeks... since "That Clown" (Sir Pentious)... has been walking freely in our sacred land!
SERA
(Not turning)
...He was "Redeemed", Lute... He is a Winner... He cannot harm anyone...
LUTE
(Slamming her remaining hand on the table!)
...CLANG!!!
The crack Emily stared at... widened!
LUTE
Redeemed!?! He killed our soldiers! He is a disgrace! Proof that Hell is winning! And instead of "Deleting" him... you order us to "Accept" him!
She stared at Sera's back...
LUTE
...Why...
SERA
(Turning slowly... six wings spreading slightly... dimming the light, replacing it with cold authority)
...Because "Redemption" ...is what happened...
EMILY
(Looking up, muttering)
...He... He proved... that the Hotel... works...
LUTE
(Snapping at Emily)
Works!? It is perversion! We were created to eliminate sinners! Not welcome them! Adam died because of this perversion!
SERA
(Voice cold... cutting in)
...We were created to "Maintain Order", Lute... And this "Error"... (She deliberately used 'Error')... has "Happened"... in front of all Heaven...
...Those words... made the furious Lute... stop.
She clenched her fist...
SERA
...He is not a demon anymore... He is a redeemed soul...
She walked closer to the table... looking down at the crack...
SERA
...Destroying him now... is "Questioning" the system... It is admitting Heaven made a "Mistake"... But "Accepting" him...
She looked up... meeting Lute's eyes...
SERA
...Is "Controlling"... until we understand... "What" we are facing...
LUTE
(Gritting teeth)
...And while we wait to "Understand"... What is your plan? Sit and wait... until all of Hell marches here?!
EMILY
(Gathering courage, standing up)
...She's right, Sera! We can't pretend nothing happened! The Winners... they are "Confused"! I hear them... whispering... They are starting to question!
SERA
(Staring Emily down)
...Isn't that your job... Emily? "Hope"... "Smiles"...
She used the old reasoning... but this time... it sounded hollow.
EMILY
(Shaking head, teary)
...What meaning does a smile have... if it's built on "Cover-ups"... when the truth... is right in front of us...
...A challenge... clear... from the younger Seraphim...
Awkward silence covered the room...
SERA
(Looking at Emily... then Lute)
...The plan is... "Caution"...
She declared...
SERA
...Lute... You are to triple the patrols... Watch every movement from Hell... And... (She hesitated)... "Observe"... Sir Pentious... Find an "Explanation"...
She turned back to Emily...
SERA
...And you... Emily... Your duty... is to ensure... that this unproven "Hope"... does not spread...
She stared deep into Emily's eyes...
SERA
...Whatever you have to "Do"... Understood?
...It was an order... laced with a warning...
Emily could only nod... swallowing the bitterness...
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Continuous
Charlie's declaration... aimed at The Vees... hung in the air.
Vaggie was the first to react... She rushed to the lamp... and "Smashed" it to pieces just like the vase!
VAGGIE
(Panting)
...Charlie... You... You just...
CHARLIE
(Trembling, but eyes firm)
...I know... I know what I did...
She looked at everyone...
CHARLIE
...I won't let them... use our Hotel... or use our "Guests"... as tools anymore...
ANGEL DUST
(Standing up, backing from window)
...Wow... Princess... I love the guts... but you're gonna get us "Deleted" harder than that TV-head!
HUSK
(Slamming counter)
...Kid's right! If The Vees are "Watching"... means they "Know" everything! About Six-Eyes! About the two upstairs!
ALASTOR
(Smiling satisfied, tapping cane)
...Precisely! And that is the most "Entertaining" part! They "Know"... but they "Can't Do Anything"...
He spread his hands...
ALASTOR
...As long as these interesting "Guests"... remain under the "Protection" of this Hotel... (And myself)... The Vees can only watch from behind the curtain! What an awkward show for them!
VAGGIE
(Turning)
...And if they stop "Watching"... and start "Attacking" instead!
ALASTOR
...That would be even...
...RIIIIIIIPPPPPPPPPPP!!!
A sound... louder than before...
Not lightning... It was the sound of "Tearing"... Like the first time Kokushibo appeared...
...But it didn't come from inside...
It came from... Outside...
ALASTOR
(Smile freezing... for the first time... showing clear "Annoyance")
...Oh... For heaven's sake...
HUSK
...No... Don't tell me...
ANGEL DUST
(Running to door, peeking out)
...OUTSIDE! IN THE SKY!
Everyone (except unconscious Zenitsu) rushed to the windows and door...
...
Exterior - Sky above Hazbin Hotel - Continuous
In the blood-red sky... directly above the spire of Hazbin Hotel...
...A pitch-black dimensional rift... was tearing the sky apart... It was massive... and unstable... like a wound ripping open...
ALASTOR
(Staring at the rift... smile gone... replaced by tension)
...This... is no longer a coincidence...
VAGGIE
...It's going... to spit something out again!
...Then the rift... "Spat" two bodies out...
But they didn't fall limply...
They "Shot" out... as if running at high speed... and were flung through dimensions!
UNKNOWN
AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
...CRASHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
The two bodies... slammed into the "Roof" of the hotel hard!
Sound of roof tiles shattering... and dust raining down from the already damaged lobby ceiling...
...Then the rift... closed.
...Silence...
CHARLIE
(Coughing, waving dust)
...On... On the roof...
ANGEL DUST
...Jesus... What is it with this place! Is it interdimensional demon reunion day?!
...
Exterior - Hazbin Hotel Roof - Continuous
Amidst broken tiles...
Two figures... scrambled up quickly...
Tanjiro Kamado (In tattered slayer uniform, panting heavily, sword gripped tight)
...Wh... Where... Where is this! Giyu-san!
He scanned around... Confusion clear in his eyes... The twisted Infinity Castle... was gone...
...Replaced by... A crimson city... stretching to the horizon... under a blood-red sky... with a giant pentagram floating above...
Giyu Tomioka (Standing firmly, despite injuries... his two-toned haori shredded... He stood in a defensive stance... staring at the environment with cold... but panicked eyes)
...Don't know...
He answered shortly...
GIYU
...But this isn't Nakime's dimension...
TANJIRO
(Covering nose, face twisting in disgust)
...Smell...
...Smell of sulfur... smell of alcohol... smell of despair...
...And...
TANJIRO
(Eyes wide)
...Smell of DEMONS!!! It... It's overwhelming! It's everywhere! Like... Like we are standing...
He looked down at the roof beneath his feet...
TANJIRO
...Like we are standing... on their "Nest"!
Chapter 36: More Intense Than Muzan
Summary:
The roof of the Hazbin Hotel has transformed into a battlefield! A berserk Kaigaku bursts forth, intent on slaughtering Tanjiro and Giyu to vent his vengeance. However, Giyu demonstrates the true might of the Water Hashira, effortlessly deflecting the black lightning.
The chaos escalates when Kaigaku shifts his target to Charlie! Yet, Giyu throws himself in the line of fire to protect the very "demon" he swore to eradicate, baffling everyone... including himself.
And in the decisive moment... Alastor intervenes! With terrifying "etiquette," he crushes the Upper Rank's Nichirin sword to dust with his bare hands, revealing a power "far more intense than Muzan."
With Kaigaku's sword shattered—and his spirit broken—Alastor extends an offer the lost Demon Slayers cannot refuse... "Why don't you gentlemen stay here for a while?"
Will Tanjiro, who detects the scent of "sadness" from Charlie, and Giyu, conflicted in his duty, accept the invitation from this "Muzan of Hell"?
Chapter Text
Interior - Hazbin Hotel Lobby - Continuous
Dust from the ceiling impact... slowly drifted down...
ANGEL DUST
(Coughing, waving away dust)
...Okay... This is getting... ridiculous! What is this? The "Uninvited Guests Falling Through The Roof" festival?!
VAGGIE
(Not wasting a second)
...It's on the roof...
She sprinted straight for the door... not the front entrance... but the door leading to the fire escape and roof access...
CHARLIE
(Running after her, face full of worry)
Vaggie! Wait! Hold on! We don't even know what it is yet!
VAGGIE
(Turning, snapping)
...I know! That it is a "Problem"! And I'm going to "Handle" it... before it crashes through the ceiling onto that crybaby's head! (She pointed at the unconscious Zenitsu)
HUSK
(Sighing, hopping over the bar)
...Fuck my life... I should have quit on day one...
He grabbed the strongest bottle of booze he could find... not to fight... but to "cope"...
ALASTOR
(Smiling... his smile "Vibrating"... not with fear... but uncontrollable excitement)
...Haha! More actors! More chaos!
He didn't walk... his body... "Sank" into the shadow on the floor...
ALASTOR (O.S.)
(Voice echoing from everywhere)
...I shall excuse myself... to welcome the new guests... on the "Stage" above!
...
Exterior - Hazbin Hotel Roof - Continuous
...Smell...
It was the first thing that assaulted Tanjiro's senses... The smell of death, sulfur, and despair... more concentrated than anything he had ever felt in his life...
...And the smell of "Demons"...
It wasn't just a scent... it was an "Ocean" of demon scent... radiating from every direction...
TANJIRO
(Propping himself up, pale, hand trembling on his sword)
...Giyu-san... This... This isn't the Infinity Castle... Here...
He looked around... seeing the endless crimson city...
TANJIRO
...Is this... "Hell"?...
GIYU TOMIOKA
(Standing still, sword ready... his usually calm eyes... slightly wide)
...I don't know... But focus... Something is coming... from below...
...BANG!!!
The roof access door... was kicked open!
Vaggie burst out... Angelic spear pointed straight at them!
VAGGIE
...Stop right there! Whatever the fuck you are...
Tanjiro and Giyu... recoiled...
What they saw... was a one-eyed woman... with bat-like wings... holding a strange spear... and her smell...
TANJIRO
(Stunned)
...Smell... Human smell... but... not... You...
...Fwip...
Charlie ran out behind her...
CHARLIE
(Panting, standing behind Vaggie)
Vaggie! Don't!
Tanjiro and Giyu... were even more confused...
Another woman... pale skin... red cheeks... kind eyes... but her smell... was powerful... and definitely not "Human"...
GIYU
(Voice cold, stepping in front of Tanjiro)
...Demons... Two of them...
VAGGIE
(Hearing this, frowning)
...Hah!? Who are you calling a demon! You cosplayers!
...Haha...
A laugh accompanied by static... came from "Behind" them...
ALASTOR
(Slowly forming from shadow... standing on the roof edge... smiling wide)
...Welcome to our Hotel... gentlemen swordsmen... It seems you have "Strayed" quite far...
...This time...
Tanjiro and Giyu... weren't just confused...
They were "Terrified".
TANJIRO
(Stepping back... bumping into Giyu... his nose... screaming)
...Giyu-san... The smell...
GIYU
(Standing rigid... feeling the pressure)
...
TANJIRO
...The smell of that red one... It... It's terrible... It's like...
He struggled for words...
TANJIRO
...Like "Muzan"...
...No... Not just the smell...
...It was the "Presence"... of absolute evil...
...KRA-KOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!
A louder explosion... came from another door on the roof! (The one connected to the upper hallway)
...KAIGAKU!!!
He smashed through the door... panting with rage...
KAIGAKU
...What the hell is that noise! I'll kill...
...Then he stopped...
Upper Rank Six eyes... widened...
He saw... Giyu... and Tanjiro...
...Demon Slayer uniforms... Nichirin swords...
KAIGAKU
(Smirking... a smile manic and full of delight)
...Ha... Haha...
He looked at Vaggie... Alastor... and Charlie...
KAIGAKU
...Hell?... No...
He turned back to glare at the two slayers...
KAIGAKU
...This is definitely "Heaven"!!!
...He raised his sword... Black lightning crackling...
KAIGAKU
..."Food"... served right to me!!!
...The two slayers... were now... surrounded...
...In front were three demons (in their eyes)...
...And behind... was an "Upper Rank"... they knew well...
...Silence... was the last thing that happened.
KAIGAKU
(Grinning wide, black lightning surrounding him)
...Heaven...
He didn't wait a second! His hatred for Demon Slayers... ran deeper than his confusion about the situation!
KAIGAKU
...Then die in my Heaven!!!
Thunder Breathing... Fourth Form... Distant Thunder!
He launched forward... No... he launched the attack! Five bolts of black lightning tore through the air... not aiming at one... but at "Both"!
It was fast... violent... and full of killing intent!
GIYU
TANJIRO! GET BACK!!!
Giyu's voice... cold and decisive...
He didn't retreat... He stepped in front of Tanjiro...
...His sword... still in the scabbard...
...But the moment the black lightning was about to hit...
...Fwip...
Water Breathing... Eleventh Form... Dead Calm.
...Silence...
The five bolts of black lightning... entered Giyu's range...
...And... Dissipated...
As if hitting the calmest water surface in the world... The violent Blood Demon Art... was nullified completely... leaving not a scratch.
...Silence... returned to the roof...
KAIGAKU
(Frozen in attack pose... eyes wide with shock)
...What...
...He stared at Giyu... who was now slowly drawing his sword...
KAIGAKU
...Just now... That was... You... You are a Hashira!!!
...On the other side of the roof...
VAGGIE
(Jaw dropped, spear lowered slightly)
...Shit... That... That pony-tail kid...
She looked at Charlie...
VAGGIE
...He... He stopped that lightning... without... barely moving...
CHARLIE
(Looking at Giyu, then Kaigaku)
...They... are fighting each other...
ANGEL DUST
(Peeking head out the door)
...Okay... This is literally a three-ring circus! Who is on whose side here!
Only Alastor... was truly "Enjoying" himself.
ALASTOR
(Tapping cane, chuckling)
...Haha! Marvelous! Absolutely marvelous! An opening act worthy of the stage! Swordsman vs Swordsman! Light (or maybe not) ...vs Darkness! How classic!
TANJIRO
(Standing behind Giyu, ignoring the fight... He was "Smelling")
...Giyu-san...
GIYU
(Eyes fixed on Kaigaku)
...I know... Demon Slayer... I'll handle it...
TANJIRO
(Voice shaking)
...No! Not just him!
He scanned around... at Vaggie... Charlie... and... Alastor...
TANJIRO
(Whispering, sweating profusely)
...The smell... The smell of that red one... Giyu-san... His smell... It... It's "More Intense"... than...
He couldn't believe his own words...
TANJIRO
...Than even Muzan...
Giyu froze...
TANJIRO
...We are surrounded! They are all Demons!
Tanjiro's words... confirmed Giyu's thought...
...This is a trap...
KAIGAKU
(Laughing loudly, hearing "Muzan")
...Muzan? Haha! You are still raving about "That Person"! Idiots!
He glared at Alastor... then back at Giyu.
KAIGAKU
...Doesn't matter! This is great! A Hashira for me to kill! If I kill you... and these freaks... I will become "Number One" in this Hell!
He decided... He wouldn't attack the Hashira with perfect defense...
He would create chaos!
KAIGAKU
(Smirking)
...Let's start with the weakest one!
He launched... not at Giyu or Tanjiro...
But at the "Demon" who looked the "Kindest"...
...His target was "Charlie"!!!
VAGGIE
CHARLIE! LOOK OUT!!!
Vaggie screamed, rushing to block...
...But Kaigaku was faster...
Thunder Breathing... Third Form... Thunder Swarm!
Hundreds of black lightning bolts swarmed toward Charlie from all directions!
...CLANGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG!!!
Sound of metal on metal... rang out...
...Not Vaggie's spear...
...The figure of Giyu Tomioka... moved in a blink...
He stood right in front of Charlie...
...And his "Sword"... was "Deflecting" every bolt of black lightning... incoming!
Water Breathing... Seventh Form... Drop Ripple Thrust.
...Everyone... froze...
...Vaggie... rushing in... stopped...
...Charlie... stood frozen behind Giyu...
...Alastor... raised an eyebrow... his smile looking more "Serious"...
...And Kaigaku... in attack stance... was stunned...
KAIGAKU
(Shouting, violently confused)
...You... WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING!!!
He stared at Giyu...
KAIGAKU
...You are "Protecting" a Demon!!! You traitor Hashira!!! You have no honor! You are just like that trash Zenitsu!!!
GIYU
(Standing still, not looking at Charlie... but staring at Kaigaku... his eyes... equally confused)
...I...
He glanced at Charlie trembling behind him...
GIYU
(Voice cold, but laced with uncertainty)
...I... am "Eliminating" a Demon...
...But the question was...
...Right now... Who exactly... was the real "Demon"?
KAIGAKU
(Frozen, stunned)
...You... You... Perverted Hashira! You dare protect a Demon! You are disgrace! You are just like that trash Zenitsu!!!
Those words... lit the fuse.
GIYU
(Turning sharply, eyes that were confused... now cold as ice)
...Don't speak that name...
He didn't understand what was happening... He didn't understand why he protected this "Demon" (Charlie)... But he knew one thing...
...The person in front of him... was "Upper Rank"... and was Zenitsu's "Senior"...
...He was a "Disgrace"... that had to be eliminated.
KAIGAKU
(Laughing)
...Oh! I stepped on a tail! Great! Since you chose their side...
He crouched again... Black lightning exploding... stronger than before...
KAIGAKU
...Then die with them!!!
TANJIRO
GIYU-SAN! NO!!!
Tanjiro shouted!
GIYU
(Turning, scolding)
...Tanjiro! This is duty!
TANJIRO
(Shaking head rapidly, pointing at Kaigaku... then at Alastor)
...The smell! The smell is different! That one (Kaigaku) ...smells "Twisted"... smell of hatred...
He pointed at Alastor... smiling...
TANJIRO
(Voice shaking, sweating)
...But... But that red one... Giyu-san... His smell... It's... "Ancient"... It is "Death" smiling! It's scary... Scarier than Muzan!!!
The words "Scarier than Muzan"... made Giyu pause...
...In that split second of hesitation...
ALASTOR
"Haha! What a... straightforward... review!"
Alastor laughed loudly... pleased with the compliment!
KAIGAKU
(Ignoring, charging!)
DIE!!!
VAGGIE
ALASTOR!!!
Vaggie screamed, knowing she couldn't block it in time!
...Fwip!!!
...But this time... it wasn't a shadow wall...
It was "Shadow Tentacles"... shooting from the roof...
...But... not at Kaigaku...
...They shot at... "Giyu" and "Tanjiro"!!!
...Snatch! Snatch!
The tentacles... "Grabbed" the waists of both slayers...
...And "Pulled" them... flying backward... out of Kaigaku's path... to stand beside Charlie and Vaggie... safely!
...BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!
Kaigaku's black lightning... missed... hitting the roof edge... exploding concrete everywhere!
...Situation... flipped again...
KAIGAKU
(Panting, staring confused)
...What...
Giyu and Tanjiro (released, standing in defense... but now... standing on the "Same Side" as Charlie and Vaggie... with Alastor smiling beside them).
TANJIRO
...He... He saved us?...
VAGGIE
(Equally confused)
...Alastor! What the hell are you doing!
ALASTOR
(Brushing dust off his suit, not looking at Vaggie... but staring at Kaigaku)
...I was just... "Rearranging the Stage"... slightly...
He smiled at Kaigaku...
ALASTOR
...It seems... the guest from Room 204... hasn't learned his lesson...
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!
Static noise boomed...
ALASTOR
(Body distorting, antlers growing)
...I suppose I must... "Remind"... you about the "Noise Rules"... one more time...
KAIGAKU
(Looking at Alastor, then Giyu, then Charlie... realizing)
...You... You are all "Working Together"!!!
He was tricked! Surrounded!
ALASTOR
(Laughing)
...That is the most "Correct" conclusion of the day!
...Fwip! Fwip! Fwip!
Dozens of pitch black tentacles... shot through the roof... straight at Kaigaku... not to hold...
...But to "Attack"!!!
KAIGAKU
(Roaring, raising sword to block)
...Bring it on! Hell Demons! I'll kill you all!!!
The battle... between "Alastor" and "Kaigaku"... erupted...
...Leaving... Giyu, Tanjiro, Charlie, and Vaggie... watching... inside the "Safe Circle"... Alastor created.
VAGGIE
(Staring at the violent clash... shadow vs lightning...)
...Okay... This is... insane...
She turned to the two slayers... still guarding... trusting no one...
VAGGIE
(Lowering spear slightly, but not holstering)
...Who... are you guys...
TANJIRO
(Not taking eyes off Alastor, but answering)
...We are... Demon Slayers...
He looked at Charlie... his nose still confused...
TANJIRO
...You... You are a demon... (Looking at Alastor)... But your smell... It's not like theirs... It's... "Sad"...
CHARLIE
(Blinking... stunned by the words)
...Eh?...
...Kaigaku's question... "You protect a demon?!!!"... echoed...
GIYU
(Standing still, blade shining... staring intently at Kaigaku)
...I don't know where this is...
He glanced at Charlie... trembling... but looking at him with eyes... "Thanking him"?...
GIYU
...But I know... that "He"... is the enemy.
TANJIRO
(Behind him, his scents mixing chaotically)
...Giyu-san! That red one... He is about to!..
Lightning clashed with Shadow.
...A battle almost too fast to see...
KAIGAKU
(Not waiting, mad with rage)
...Perverts! If you want to die... I'll grant your wish!!!
He launched... not just an attack... but full movement!
Thunder Breathing... Sixth Form... Rumble and Flash!
Thousands of black lightning bolts exploded around him... rushing to attack "Everyone" on the opposite side... Giyu, Tanjiro, Charlie, and Vaggie! Carpet bombing!
...But...
ALASTOR
(Standing smiling... not moving a finger)
...Too loud...
...ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!
Radio static... rose up... and "Drowned Out" Kaigaku's thunder completely!
...Shadow...
Pitch black shadow... not tentacles... but a massive "Dome Wall"... formed instantly...
...It "Covered"...
...Charlie, Vaggie, Giyu, and Tanjiro... inside...
...BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!
Thousands of black lightning bolts... crashed into the "Outside" of the shadow dome...
...And... Dissipated...
...Alastor... stood "Outside" the dome... facing Kaigaku... who was now panting... stunned...
ALASTOR
(Smiling... no longer entertained... only cold annoyance)
...I am... getting "Bored"... with your repetitive act...
KAIGAKU
(Growling)
...You... What are you...
ALASTOR
...I am the "Host"... about to "Warn"... a rude guest... for the last time...
He didn't use tentacles...
He simply "Stepped"...
...Fwip...
He vanished...
KAIGAKU
(Eyes wide, demon instinct screaming)
...!!!
...Alastor... appeared "Behind" him... slowly...
...Kaigaku... spun around... swinging black lightning blade...
...Cling...
...Alastor... used his "Microphone Cane"...
...To Block...
...The Upper Rank Nichirin Sword...
...Effortlessly...
KAIGAKU
(Stunned... All his force... stopped by a stick!)
...Im... Impossible...
ALASTOR
(Smiling... showing all teeth... static screaming)
...Your power... is "Loud"...
He twisted the cane slightly...
...CRACK!!!
...Kaigaku's blade... that killed countless slayers...
...Started to... "Crack"...
ALASTOR
...But it is... "Hollow"...
...SHATTERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!
Kaigaku's blade... shattered into pieces...
Leaving only the hilt... in his trembling hand...
KAIGAKU
(Staring at the blade-less hilt... with empty eyes)
...My... My sword...
...Silence...
ALASTOR
(Straightening up, leaning on cane elegantly)
...I warned you...
He didn't attack Kaigaku... He just "Disarmed" him...
...Destroying the sword... was destroying Kaigaku's "Identity"... worse than killing him.
...Meanwhile...
Interior - Shadow Dome
The shadow dome... was "Translucent" from inside...
Tanjiro, Giyu, Charlie, and Vaggie... saw everything...
CHARLIE
(Hand on chest, stunned)
...He... He broke that sword...
VAGGIE
(Jaw dropped, staring at Alastor)
...With... With that cane...
GIYU
(Standing still... but his eyes... showed "Shock" ...for the first time)
...Power...
TANJIRO
(Shaking... not fear... but confusion)
...He... He stopped an Upper Rank... But... But he is a Demon...
The shadow dome dissolved...
ALASTOR
(Turning back, smiling wide... as if nothing happened)
...Alright! Since the first "Act" is over...
He gestured to Kaigaku... who was now kneeling... staring at his broken hilt... defeated completely...
ALASTOR
...I think... it is time to "Move" this angry guest... back to his room... (He chuckled)... Maybe... need to "Reinforce" the door a bit...
He turned to the two slayers... still guarding...
ALASTOR
...As for you two...
He bowed slightly...
ALASTOR
...Welcome to... Hazbin Hotel... officially.
Alastor's "Welcome"... hung in the air filled with sulfur and ozone...
The battle ended... but the confrontation... just started.
KAIGAKU
(Still kneeling, shaking... not with anger... but "Emptiness")
...Sword... My sword...
He muttered... his spirit broken... worse than the blade.
Giyu and Tanjiro didn't relax...
They stepped back... standing back-to-back... defensive stance... Now... facing the remaining "Demons"...
GIYU
(Voice cold, to Tanjiro)
...He is stronger...
TANJIRO
(Nodding, sweating)
...Yes... Much stronger... Incomparable...
VAGGIE
(Still confused, lowering spear... but not holstering)
...Okay... Someone... Explain what the hell just happened!
She pointed at Giyu and Tanjiro...
VAGGIE
...Who are you! Why did that asshole (nodding at Kaigaku) ...want to kill you! And why... (turning to Giyu)... did you "Help" Charlie!
ALASTOR
(Chuckling, ignoring tension)
...My... My... It seems our "Actors"... have complicated "Backstories" indeed!
He turned attention to the "Problem" on the floor...
ALASTOR
...But before the "Interviews"... I must excuse myself... to "Handle" ...this expired actor...
Shadow tentacles... slowly crept from the floor again...
...But this time... not attacking...
...Slowly... wrapping around Kaigaku... who didn't resist at all...
He let the shadows... bind him...
ALASTOR
(Waving hand dismissively)
...Take him back to his room... and "Plug" the door... I am getting bored... of fixing furniture...
The shadows... "Dragged" Kaigaku's soulless body... disappearing into the broken door... leaving only the broken hilt... and silence...
...Once Kaigaku was gone...
Alastor turned back... facing the two slayers...
...Situation: 3 (Alastor, Charlie, Vaggie) ...vs 2...
ALASTOR
...Now... Since the "Problem" is swept away...
CHARLIE
(Running in, standing "Between" Alastor and Slayers... arms spread... "Protecting" them... from Alastor)
...Wait! Alastor! Stop!
She turned to Giyu and Tanjiro... still guarding...
CHARLIE
(Panting, trying to smile... shaking)
...I... I'm Charlie... Thank you... Thank you for saving me just now... (Looking at Giyu)
GIYU
(No answer, staring... mistrusting)
TANJIRO
(Stepping out slightly... He had to communicate)
...I am Kamado Tanjiro... This is Tomioka Giyu-san... We are... "Demon Slayers"...
VAGGIE
(Eyes wide)
...Demon... Slayers?...
ANGEL DUST
(Still hiding at the door, shouting)
...Wow! "Demon Slayers" ...lost in a "Demon Nest"... That is... dark comedy gold!
TANJIRO
(Ignoring, staring at Charlie... nose working hard)
...You... You are a demon... (Looking at Alastor)... He... is also a demon...
He looked back at Charlie...
TANJIRO
(Frowning... violently confused)
...But why... Why is your smell... "Different"?
CHARLIE
(Stunned)
...Smell?...
TANJIRO
...His smell... (Pointing at Alastor)... is scary... cold... It is death...
He looked at Charlie...
TANJIRO
...But your smell... is... "Sad"...
...The word "Sad"...
...Hit Charlie... harder than any death threat...
CHARLIE
...You... can smell... feelings?
GIYU
(Cutting in, voice cold)
...Tanjiro... Don't speak unnecessary things... They are demons... All of them.
He stared at Alastor...
GIYU
...You... stronger than Upper Rank... Are you... "Muzan" ...of this place?
That question... made Alastor... laugh out loud!
ALASTOR
(Laughing hard, static booming)
...HAHAHAHA! Muzan! Oh... No... No... No... That name is so "Tacky"! I am just... an "Entertainer"... who happens to be... a "Patron" ...of this Hotel!
CHARLIE
(Seizing the chance)
...Hotel! Yes! This is a Hotel!
She turned to Tanjiro and Giyu...
CHARLIE
...This isn't a "Nest"... We aren't "Enemies"... (Glancing at Alastor)... Uh... Mostly...
CHARLIE
...This is a place... where we try to "Redeem" souls! We try to help demons... become better people!
...Silence...
Giyu and Tanjiro... stared at her... as if she spoke an alien language...
GIYU
...Redeem?...
TANJIRO
...Demons?...
GIYU
(Sheathing sword... not trust... but knowing... fighting... was pointless)
...Ridiculous...
He said one word...
TANJIRO
(Shaking head)
...Demons... eat people... They kill... They never...
CHARLIE
(Voice shaking, stepping closer)
...But they "Can"! I know it's possible! That's why I built this place!
...Tanjiro... stared into Charlie's eyes...
...He heard... "Sincerity"...
...He smelled... "Sadness"...
...And... "Hope"...
...Her smell... didn't lie...
...Even though everything around him... screamed "Hell"...
TANJIRO
(Lowering sword... but not sheathing)
...I... I don't understand...
ALASTOR
(Smiling wide, walking to pat Charlie's shoulder)
...And you... don't need to understand right now!
He smiled at the slayers...
ALASTOR
...Since... you have nowhere to go... and it seems... your "Old Enemies" ...have all checked in here...
He gestured... to the door leading downstairs...
ALASTOR
...Why don't you... try... "Staying"... here for a bit?
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