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Clash of Realms	By : RaphaelTMNT Category: -Misc Anime > Crossovers Views: 3326 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Justice League, Rosario Vampire or Dark Stalkers nor the characters from either of the three series. I do not make money from writing this story.

Chapter List
- 10
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Clash of Realms
CHP11: The Realm of Alvasleha

Lied out over her stomach and fast asleep was the one who single handedly gave him a second chance at life. Her very actions were the reason he was still alive even if it came at the cost of his mortality. In pulling up a chair beside the bed he gazed down over her who looked so at peace and there were no hard feelings towards her as he understood why she made the decision. No child would want to experience what he did right in front of their eyes and unfortunate for him that's what haunted and drove him to this very day. Bruce reached out running a hand over her back as she quietly mumbled before her eyes flickered and then opened as she yawned.
"Daddy... daddy is that you?!"
She quickly jumped up with extra energy while Bruce smiled leaning forward and embracing the young girl in a hug as she held him tight.
"I love you," tears filled her eyes and she didn't know why.
"And I love you."
Both Wonder Woman and Superman observed this from the entrance door and felt warmth as father and daughter hugged it out. Eventually she sat back and looked him in the face as she wiped the tears away from her eyes.
"When can I go back home? I miss nii-san, Grandpa Alfred and ACE. It was crazy Daddy, I grew bat wings and so much power but Kayeda-san guided me on how to control and suppress it. She says momma went through the same thing and that I awakened my shinso blood, it was so cool!"
Bruce smiled at this proclamation as he patted at her shoulder.
"Soon... but not yet, in order to assure your safety we can't."
"When can we?" Sasha sat up crossed legged.
"I don't know," Bruce shook his head. "But this is only temporary, I promise you things will go back to the way they were and then we can go home... together."
"K," Sasha smiled as she then sat on her knees. "Do you hate me for what I..."
"Of course not," Bruce reached out taking hold of her chin. "You did what you felt was right in your heart and you aren't to blame for my turning, it's his fault and his alone. I don't remember much from that night as it's still somewhat a blur, but you said you ran away from the yokai realm, tell me what happened."
By this point Wonder Woman had taken off down the hall to the maintenance room while Kal-El remained standing within the doorway and listened in on the two.
"It's terrible daddy they have Jitzie-sama prisoner and in the coming weeks he's going to be executed without a prosecution! Isn't there something you can do, talk to mommy and get her to do things differently? He's done lots of bad I know, but this procedure just isn't right."
"Jitzie, do you mean the vampire Jitoshi?"
Sasha simply nodded as Bruce sighed and clasping his hands together as he lowered his chin atop his hands and really gave this some thought. And it was very unlikely that even he could talk Akasha out of her decision, taking into account this very man stole Sasha away from her and his past and current activities wouldn't help his case either. There was that and the reality of the Dark Lord's position as the queen and ruler of vampires, and for her to renege on such a decision if announced publicly wouldn't sit well with her peers and representatives. And that was assuming they were to speak but with the situation being what it was she was one of the last people that needed to see him right now.
"That... that's out of my control," Bruce said sadly. "I'm sorry."
Bruce stood from the chair kissing at Sasha's forehead.
"Get some rest and try not to worry about it, whatever happens is not your fault."
"Okay, but I'm so happy you're alive."
"As am I, you couldn't have come sooner."
Bruce tucked her back into bed with the blankets atop her and took off toward the exit making eye contact with Superman. The feeling was conflicting and in ways he contemplated if death would have been the better outcome, but he kept these thoughts to himself.
"Is Nightwing still here?"
"Yes, he's in the lounge with Simon and a couple others," Superman responded.
"Good, then it is time."
"Time for what?"
"Remember the conversation we had over the phone," Bruce looked his friend and ally in the eyes. "I'm well ahead of schedule and in the next day or two I'll need the fortress of solitude. You're welcome to take part, I'll likely need assist along the way."
Superman crossed his arms with interest.
"And what exactly is it that we'll be working on?"
"You'll find out," Bruce looked him off as he headed for the lounge.
XXX
Haruo paced around rubbing at his eyes with apprehension. His hands were tucked instinctively on the hem of his shirt as he straightened the fabric. Eventually the walking came to a stop as he moved up beside the blanket that had been lain out over the grass a little while ago and he slumped forward and onto the blanket with a sigh. Haruo breathed out as he looked up with his hands behind his head and his legs crossed.
The sound of a branch snapping diverted his attention as he only slightly lifted his head, eyes scanning the area from which the sound originated. A flash of blue fabric with bat patterns on them zipped through the trees catching his eye. Not a moment later she dropped down and on top of him, the very collision knocking the breath out of him. Lilith Aensland had dove from the tree, dressed in her red boots and had bat wings extending out of her head and torso and she wore a sleeveless red bustier top adorned with white feathers and small heart cut out of the midriff and blue nylons decorated with bat patterns. She carried a small apple in her hand which she bit into and smiled at him while she chewed before pushing off her companion as he caught his breath.
She sat beside him on the blanket while he just stared at her and watched the succubus devour the entire apple. She appeared cheerful and happy on the outside as she always seemed but he did often wonder what was going through her mind on the inside. But there was something he had picked up on, a small change in her eyes that seemed to scream indecisiveness
"You're having second thoughts, aren't you?" Haruo spoke, his voice uncharacteristically uneasy.
"You mean about my other half?" Lilith looked to him before his eyes slid down to the left and to the ground. "Maybe… hard to say. I don't know what I'm feeling now. I really love being this, me and if I find her this could all be gone or maybe not. In the very least I'd like to meet her."
"You aren't committed to the whole merging thing?"
She blinked once, then chuckled as she ran a hand over the side of his face.
"Breathe Haruo," Lilith ran a gentle hand over the side of his shoulder. "I don't plan on going anywhere… but we shall see."
"Shall we, huh?" he asked with questioning eyes surveying her.
There was a cool breeze that came in from the west and was quite relaxing over their skin as they sat there. Haruo was with his legs crossed, and Lilith next to him on the left with her own legs tucked neatly at her side. The succubus quietly sung to herself which brought about a snicker from his lips. She was the very reason that he continued to go on, her positive outlook on life always brought a smile to his face.
XXX
The manor was a no go and so were others of his prominent hang out spots. She received his call but something about it was different and even seemed dubious. But even so she agreed to meet him and at a very peculiar location. Once there and standing in front of a dumpster in a vacant alley she made the call.
"I'm here, exactly where you said to go. What now?"
She didn't get a response and instead a section of the ground in front of the dumpster opened and she looked all around and made certain no one was watching before she dropped through and the section of concrete sliding back into place. For a while she zipped down the long slide and into the open facility. The succubus feasted her eyes on different weaponry and gadgets as she surveyed the area and a couple bat suits behind glass cases.
"Morrigan," he called out to her as he stepped through the automatic doors. "We need to talk."
Bruce was dressed in dark jeans and a gray sweater and as he approached his steps became progressively slower before completely stopping. Fright was the first thing that came to mind when making eye contact with the queen, her expression was comparable to that of a child who'd seen a ghost and so Bruce exhaled as he continued forward and one thing was clear.
"You can feel it," Bruce looked her in the eyes. "Can't you? I suppose I shouldn't be surprised."
Morrigan stepped back with a hand to her heart and she even shivered somewhat as she bit down at her tongue.
"What... what happened to you," she stepped forward. "This aura, this energy reverberating from you is that of..."
Moving in on her, Bruce lowered his hands over her shoulder as he then proceeded to open his mouth and expose his fangs as Morrigan quivered and her heart raced.
"My goodness, you've been turned!" she stumbled back but maintained her footing. "What happened?"
She took deep breathes to try and collect herself while at the same time wrapping her mind around this reality. The man she'd fallen for and deemed her love had changed, his humanity somehow taken and as bad as she felt for him the succubus quickly thought of the positives and potential that might come of thist. He would be with immense strength unlike before, an astonishing healing factor and immortality just as herself. And regardless if he was a human or vampire the way she felt about or viewed him wouldn't change, long as the man himself didn't. A part of her was quietly jumping up in excitement, but there was still the events of what led to this and so she held off until she was given the full scoop.
Bruce on the other end stepped back and took a deep breath as he considered how he'd explain things and so he started right from the beginning where he was attacked by members to the court of owls and then came him. Morrigan listened the entire time as he explained from start to finish as he'd been ambushed and brutally beaten by the vampire, Demitri Maximoff to near death and he would have been if not for the untimely appearance of Sasha. He also detailed where he'd been held up for the past few days as the Justice League looking over him in his unconscious state but during this justification he'd noticed that Morrigan had grown somewhat tense and her fists clinched as if she were holding back rage.
"What is it?" Bruce uttered.
"Demitri Maximoff!" the Makai queen snarled.
With an eyebrow raised he took a single step forward.
"You know him?"
"More than you could imagine! Like so many others his goal is to dethrone me and rule Makai and we've encountered one another on more occasions than I can count! And I have to believe him being here, the timing of his arrival and what he did to you... it's my fault!"
"That isn't true," Bruce moved in on Morrigan with his arms wrapped around her. "He came after me on his own accord, it's nothing that you did even if you're somehow the reason he made the trip."
The queen held onto Bruce tight as she looked up and into his eyes.
"I'll kill him for what he did to you!"
A bright light shaped in the middle of the room as Bruce arranged himself in front of Morrigan, shielding her from whatever was to come. And when that light died down it was two persons standing opposite of them, the first Wonder Woman and the second Selene Kayeda of the Asagao three.
"Diana, Selene," Bruce stepped forward. "What gives?"
He was halfway surprised that they knew where to find him.
"Look, I know this isn't what you want to hear but Selene really wants to help and I really think you should consider it. There are conditions we discussed and I think you'll find them reasonable."
Wonder Woman stepped aside as Selene moved in.
"There is an Island inside a hidden realm called Alvasleha, separate to the world of man and monsters. Only I, Miukei, Lailay and Akasha-sama know about it. As with any realm, time flows differently inside there. One week in real time is just about a month inside there. Four months on that island is what I'd consider ideal, to teach and guide you through the basics and some of the advance stuff. If you're a quick study like I've heard, then we shouldn't need more time than that."
Wonder Woman took the opportunity to join in and voice her own opinion.
"She would instruct you on aura control and channeling it into your inner being to increase your physical speed and strength exponentially and how to manage it properly. Not only that but she'd conduct and show you how not to lose yourself to bloodlust, as it is common for newly turned vampires. And if it helps, I to will be making the trip, overseeing your training and helping wherever I can."
Diana was expecting a quick response with Bruce turning down the offer but that didn't happen, in fact he appeared to consider it from what she could tell.
"She's a medic that understands vampires and exactly what you're going through, you must accept her service."
Since they'd appeared Morrigan hadn't spoken but remembered the days of working beside Selene under Fairy Tale and so she had a good feel for who the vampire was.
"I believe her objectives are wholesome and that she has your best interest in mind. She's one of Akasha's loyal maidens. Speaking of which, how has she taken to all this?" Morrigan snickered. "I imagine she must be..."
"She doesn't know," Bruce and Selene said at once.
Morrigan almost jumped out of her boots as she backed up somewhat.
"And until I say, she won't," Bruce glared. "Which goes for Tsukune, Moka and the rest of them. Bloodriver has too much on her plate and if she knew about what happened it would shift her focus and possibly alter decisions she's already set. I don't want to be that sort of distraction."
"Okay," Morrigan returned the scowl. "When do you plan on telling her, this is something she'd be dying to know and she'll find out sooner or later? To what degree or how much I don't know, but she does care about you, Bruce."
With tightened fists Bruce groaned. Selene on the other hand knew the truth as Akasha had confessed her feelings for this man and his entire situation had changed since then.
"Sometime after she's mated, no time sooner," Bruce replied.
"So this is what this is about!" Morrigan snapped. "You're afraid she'll break script and try to pursue you! And so what if she does, Akasha deserves to know and if you really want nothing to do with her then by all means just tell her!"
"I'm not obligated to tell her anything and nor will you."
Morrigan badly wanted to fire back at Bruce but kept her mouth shut as she didn't want to get into an unnecessary argument and she did understand his viewpoint even if she didn't agree.
"So what will it be?" Selene spoke once more. "If yes then I shall ready a few of my closes maidens and yokai warriors that'll help with the process. Please do not pass this opportunity up Mister Wayne, this is for your own good. It is as Aensland says, you do mean something to my queen and I wouldn't do anything to deceive someone like that. You've refused to seek Apollo, so this is your alternative. And I'm putting my own ass on the line with this as well, if someone were to discover I was secretly training you I could be in a lot of trouble."
Bruce's eyes met with hers as the two vampires stared each other down.
XXX
Hastily the royal servants and cooks of the Dark Lord scrambled throughout the building, making the final preparations and last-minute examinations of every piece of equipment in relation to the Blood Dream function event. While this occurred anxious chaos unfolded, outside the palace grounds of Hiklorhan were numerous locals interwoven with the multitude of seamen and merchants, forming a great commotion within and about the front gates. The noise and disorder grew ever increasingly along with the crowds, but only to the point of bumping and pushing past one another to position themselves to get inside once the doors opened.
Seeing as her mother, the queen was away and attending a wide realm meeting the responsibility of representing as host under the yokai Blood Dream function event fell on the shoulders of Aono Moka who agreed to take up these duties. It wasn't a position that was forced upon her, but rather requested and she wanted to help her mother in any way that she could. But fortunately she wasn't alone in this as not only Tsukune, but Ruby Toujou and Yukari Sendo agreed to cohost beside her and this rid her of some of the additional looming stress. And it was by Moka's orders that the organizers unlocked the various entrance doors as guests were granted entry into the building and the activity rooms unlocked.
"Don't worry Moka-san," Tsukune moved in on her with a reassuring hand out over her shoulder. "This whole affair is gonna go just fine, don't stress."
"It isn't that," Moka shook her head. "It's Sasha… I don't understand how she could just up and disappear from mother's castle without a trace. There's something wrong with this picture and I don't like it, not at all."
The silver haired vampire grimaced and it was Ruby that overheard the conversation and jumped in.
"I too have thought about this," she spoke with worry in her tone. "I don't like to think negatively, but the word abduction doesn't seem farfetched. Believe me, I hope that isn't true, but anything is possible."
Moka quivered at the idea that someone might do that and she didn't see how, especially in the palace of all places! Her younger sister kidnapped right from under Akasha's feet… just the thought of it caused her to feel sick. It wasn't just her, but Tsukune equally as bothered by the report, as she was surrounded by so many that were supposed to be there to protect her and clearly that didn't happen. There was that, but then also that of Sasha's father, Bruce Wayne. They could only imagine how he might react to handing Sasha over into the care of Akasha only to find out she went missing. Yukari noticed and could see the gloominess in their eyes and she didn't want for that unfortunate occurrence to ruin the event.
"Cheer up, you two," the witch smiled. "She's a strong and resilient girl from what I've heard. With all that child's been through I wouldn't worry, she'll turn up eventually."
Ruby nodded in agreement as she was also looking to stay positive and put on a smile, even if it only helped somewhat. If nothing more she would keep up face for the event and then when it was over she could worry about her personal troubles. And things had to be much worse for her mother and she remained firm, so Moka knew she needed to do the same. Not even ten minutes in two familiar faces showed themselves through the prime entrance.
"Look over there," Yukari pointed. "It's Gin and Kurumu-san!"
The rest of the group took notice of them and together they headed that way. Halfway to them, both Gin and Kurumu saw them and waved as together they all met in the middle of the room and everyone shared hugs with the succubus who they hadn't seen in a while since the wedding, but from what they could tell she seemed to be taking the outcome decently well. Tsukune knew of how she felt about him and that wouldn't just so easily vanish, but he also hoped she'd find the strength to move on and find someone that makes her happy.
"It's so good to see you, Kurumu-san," Tsukune was the last of them to embrace her. "I'm happy to see you're doing okay and that you decided to drop by here."
"Me too," she backed away from him shaking her head. "I've really only told Gin-san, but there is an event coming up soon that I'll be taking part in. Something to kick start my modeling career and I'm super stoked!"
"That's great, Kurumu-san you'll need to give me dates and locations. Both Moka-san and myself would happily support whatever you've got going on."
"Seconded," Moka smiled.
And so for the next couple minutes the close friends conversed sharing laughs before eventually breaking away from each other as the crowds became larger and larger. As host and guest hosts of the event they didn't have the luxury of sticking together nor in one spot for long. Tsukune and Ruby occupied one side of the building while Moka and Yukari attended to the other. They answered guest questions and directed them to dealers' rooms or gambling sections, etc. This entire time there was a singular individual eying Moka and he had been since his arrival. She was so much different than her mother even in appearance but she wasn't lacking in beauty, just as luscious as the Dark Lord.
Licking at his lips he moved in on her with determination and confidence in every step, with a vision and plan formulating. If he had it his way Akasha would be the one, but history and their first go around shattered any possibility of that and she was far too empowered both in body and mind with uncanny wisdom. It was unlike in their early days where she was so naive and simple minded. Such a target was easy to prey on and break into his little toy, but now she was none of that. The small percentage of success wasn't worth the hunt and so he turned to the next best thing. He coughed clearing his throat and getting her attention.
"Aono Moka, is it?"
The silver haired vampire turned around facing an individual with light short spiky brown hair, light purple eyes and the most alluring smile standing at 5'11. He was dressed in a dark red suit, yellow under shirt and red tie with yellow poke dots.
"Hello," Moka smiled at him. "How may I help you?"
"There's nothing in particular," he answered honestly with a shrug. "I'm actually an old friend of your mother's, we go way back and I really mean way back. Name's Fumiya Ichiro."
Moka shook hands with this individual.
"Mother never mentioned that name, but honestly she doesn't talk much about the past... well at least not to me."
"Care for a walk, I could tell you a thing or two?"
He came off as calm, collected, trusting and there didn't appear to be any guests around that needed assist and so she didn't see why not. She followed him around while he did most the talking, relaying to her details of when he first met her mother and how they attended the same academy and got to know each other. But along the way he never once detailed the sort of relationship they shared the following weeks after her sixteenth birthday and little by little Ichiro got Moka to open up about herself. He just had that sort of personality and charm that drew others in and his deceptive intentions hidden. First was figuring a potential target's likes and dislikes, overall personality and what gets them ticking.
Already through the short conversations he was liking this woman and well aware of her marriage to Aono Tsukune but he didn't give a damn. When he wanted something, particularly a woman he'd do everything in his power to land her but from what he could tell from this one she'd be no easy catch. It was clear through the confidence in her eyes and overall demeanor and she was also a newlywed but he was a master of finding cracks in the armor as he had centuries of doing it, seducing even those proclaimed women taken. Before him was a challenge and he'd have to first gain her trust, which wasn't at all a problem as he loved a slow calculated process of nabbing his catch and she would be worth the effort. As they moved along while she spoke he took opportunities to secretly look over her body and imagine him enjoying every inch.
But it wasn't just her, Tsukune was also in the equation and gaining his trust was also important as he slowly slithered his way in and took what he wanted. If even just a secret fling on the side that was perfectly fine, as long term relationships had proven not to be his thing. The thrill of the hunt and the moment of landing the prize was what he lived for and got his blood pumping but he didn't want to come off as forceful or desperate, especially since it was their first encounter and so after a period he broke away from her but he had left a good first impression and that was a start. And until that point the event went smoothly, but then in one instant Moka turned corner and into a vacated hall away from all the activity. It was there that she saw something that she wish she hadn't. Up against a wall was a woman held in place by Colton Orsic as the two kissed passionately and her right hand halfway down his pants!
Moka immediately turned away with repulsion and a hand to her mouth as she quickly got as far away from there as she could. There was no way her mother could marry that filth, not if she had something to say about it. And so with disgust she returned to her post and put on a smile for all the guests but she was anything but in a pleasant mood. First the news of Sasha's disappearance and now this. The vampire couldn't see how the day could get any worse.
XXX
Since that night and everything he witnessed, it was all the emperor thought about. The Batman beaten to the edge of death consequent to Sasha's attempt at turning him and as he sat at his desk there was no one that knew about the events of that night other than his attendant, Eris. It was in fact Akasha who came to him directly, frantic as she informed him of Sasha's disappearance and right away he went to work trying to locate her and his journeys led him to the human world. It was then that he stumbled upon the scene. Had it not been for the appearance of the league, Sasha would be back in the loving care of her mother but there were various factors that factored into his decision to keep the incident secret and not to try and pursue Sasha.
First was the obvious, he hadn't any idea where she was being held and secondly she was in good hands. The Justice League were a good band of super beings and aliens who he knew would do her no harm but that didn't help to ease the tension he was feeling. For obvious reasons he kept this info away from his family and instructed that Eris do the same. If Akasha or anyone knew what happened, things could get ugly and as a small war between them could then break out serving no good for anyone. Most troubling was the unknown, had Wayne died or been turned into a ghoul? And if he'd been turned, had they disposed of him?
"They're here, representatives to each kingdom," Eris entered through the opened door of his office. "As too is princess Akasha."
"Great," Apollo put on a smile, knowing he needed to put his worries aside for the time being. "On my way."
The pink haired vampire stepped into his office as Eris retreated down the hall.
"You wanted to speak?"
"I did," Apollo stood from his chair and with his hands behind his back as he paced about. "I do not wish to get into this now and I understand he is a prisoner of Hiklorhan, but I strongly suggest you make altercations to his sentencing."
"Father," Akasha looked him in the face with confusion. "Who is it you refer to?"
"Jitoshi Ichiro, you shall relinquish your hold on him and he shall be relocated to the city of Meltaw along with others of your prisoners who were shipped alongside him."
The Dark Lord knew exactly what this meant as she bit down over her tongue and didn't like it.
"His fate has been decided, you know what he did is unforgivable! He took away my child and…"
Akasha fell silent as Apollo lowered a hand over her shoulder and shook his head.
"You will comply, or I shall take matters into my own hands. Jitoshi will face a jury alongside other prisoners who were gathered and they will face proper justice. I know how you feel, my child and I can assure you that Jitoshi isn't going to walk for his crimes… this must be handled the right way."
"But why?" Akasha shook her head in disbelief. "You aren't one to ever change your mind once it's been made, so why start now? What changed?"
Apollo moved away from her as he returned to his desk with a few things to look over before the meeting began as half a grin shaped over his lips.
"Wisdom comes in all forms my child, sometimes even in the youth. Persons are capable of proving wise far beyond their years and I was just reminded of this," Apollo looked up into Akasha's eyes. "Now go, I shall soon accompany you all."
She hadn't any idea what had gotten into him or his change in heart, but she had no wish to argue with his request. Even as he sat there, it hurt Apollo to keep the truth away From Akasha concerning the whereabouts of her daughter but it was for the best. It was then that Akasha made her way into the conference room where many of the leaders and their attendants were already seated. She first took notice of Kenzie Jie who was the werewolf king, sitting in the closes chair from the door. He somewhat glared at her but she gave no response as this action was to be expected coming from him. The feeling was mutual as she wasn't very fond of werewolves, vice versa. Akasha walked calmly across the room where her designated seat was and sat. After settling in she and everyone else waited for other members of the summit to arrive. Shortly afterwards, the emperor Apollo himself entered, taking his seat at the head of the table with Akasha to his left and across from her was Fafnir, who wouldn't give her even a glance. A few minutes later the final members of the conference arrived and took their seats. Leaders of the primary kingdoms and holding the most power were in attendance, but rulers to some of the smaller clans and countries were also in attendance.
With everyone seated, it was the emperor at the head of the table followed by Bloodriver Akasha, queen of vampires and the kingdom of Hiklorhan. Fafnir was next, king of dragons and the kingdom of Arcenill Mount; then was Queen Yasmine Laurent of the mermaids, ruler of Aqualanteis. Across from her was Delbert Hayhurst, king of elves and Vindellorien, with Kiyoko Ito, queen of Kitsunes and kingdom of Uanora. Next was Imani, ruler to the kingdom of Yundervelt and king of ogres and across from him was the king of Goblins, and ruler to the kingdom of Thishieita, Nicolas Patro. Closing out the top global power was queen of the phoenix species, Lara Chao to the kingdom of Draspeya.
In total however there were sixty different representatives at the table. The conference opened up with discussions concerning matters of political and moral ethics, with each kingdom bringing up visionaries from their different cultures and how they wished to make certain changes to better communications between them all. Those from lands under the rule of Uanora brought up some of the injustices that had went on and poor trades with an overall lack of healthy exchanges with neighboring cities. Apollo listened in with his hands clasped together, looking back and forth between queen Kiyoko and those that questioned her very principles. Others under the rule of King Nicolas, voiced matters that varied from the purpose of governance, to the dignity and rights of travelers and foreigners who seemed to be treated unfairly as they came and went. Others also chimed in on the diverse matters, even if it had little to do with their domains. There were also those who offered little or nothing as they took on the roles of observing. Imani was one of these persons that remained hushed and still, sitting and listening intently throughout the assembly while jotting down notes. It was just about an hour in that the meeting shifted gears with the focus on the manner in which each separate faction governed the citizens of their respective nations, with Akasha and Yasmine doing most the talking and leading the charge.
"With all due respect, princess I find such a statement to be quite absurd. I mean no offence and I don't refer to all vampires in saying this, but the vast majority are too impulsive and violent. The lot of you are always looking to make trouble, and your convicted felons should be put on a short chain at minimum once serving the time of their sentence. You're too kind and gentle, such an approach will limit progress"
"But you must recognize, that one's in power such as we have a duty as leaders to set an example so that they may follow."
"Yes and no… that ideology sounds great on paper but as someone with your insight knows it doesn't translate in the realm we live in."
"And what do you mean by that?" Kiyoko jumped in.
Akasha sighed as she leaned forward and Apollo's eyes on her the entire time.
"It's a tough world we live in and by showing too much kindness and not putting my foot down, vampires will not listen to or follow my message. That's simply what she meant," Akasha responded.
"Queen Yasmine," Delbert looked to the mermaid queen, scratching at the surface of the table. "There lies a distinction between serving the needs of the people and their wants. As a ruler or appointed official, it is one's responsibility to use one's power for the sake of everyone's safety and wellbeing. The good of the people is the first, and foremost priority of every leader and I for one agree with Princess Akasha's approach. The masses that you care for should show through loving actions and getting close to them, there are other methods just as if not more operative than that of a tyrant."
"Right with you, King Hayhurst," Imani remarked, causing a slight snicker from the other delegates, including three from smaller villages. "Your Majesty, do you desire the good of the people? Stupid question, of course you do; but does your view point conflict or gel with that of your daughter's?"
"She's an adult with her own experiences and carries prudence, but I'd be lying if I told you our way of thinking from a diplomatic standpoint ventured in a straight line. Quite often do we disagree on small details of a matter," Apollo smiled. "My guidance and assist isn't just limited to the dragon king and vampire queen, I am at the service of you all. We can truly only build a better world by working together."
This was something the entirety of the room already knew but it was reassuring to hear it out of his lips.
"Stricter laws produces more tension and citizens pointing fingers at law makers and those who're put in positions to uphold them when things don't go as they should. Under the kingdom of Thishieita, my goal is to rid ourselves of so many rules and regulations and allow the citizens more freedom. King Imani and the kingdom of Yundervelt has been our greatest ally and trading partners, but we'd love to expand upon that," King Nicolas Patro voiced.
It was than Fafnir that grumbled as he had something to add.
"Then that would invite corruption to everyone that feels uncomfortable or unhappy. Permit everyone to step out of their circles, cut off the boundaries set to establish law and order, allow everyone to run rampant in the streets. I tell you this, such leniency can only bring forth anarchy and chaos! Last I checked you goblins and your kingdom have been recorded for having the highest crime rates, isn't too surprising with such a simpleton at the helm."
"What was that!" the goblin king jumped up from his chair.
Others had also taken offence to the comments and from there an argument broke out with shouting and yelling from both sides of the table, some in Nicolas's corner and others siding with Fafnir. Things were quickly getting out of hand and Apollo knew he needed to quickly regain control before things spiraled further out of control.
"Enough, all of you!"
He slammed a fists over the table and his aura raised just enough to get the attention of them all and send shivers up their spines. The entire room went completely silent as everyone returned to their seats who'd taken a stand. Several dirty looks were shot all around the table but no words said as Apollo ran a hand over his face and exhaled.
"We've discussed and made clear of what each of your distinct parties chooses to govern and rule, which is important but that alone won't get us to where we must go and only together will we reach that place. All of you in this room and I mean all of you," Apollo's gaze fell over each and every person at the table. "Have a personal vendetta against someone sitting at this table, some of which on a wider scale that spawns far beyond personal matters. There is no growing as a community with such subtleties holding us back. Today each and every one of you will bring to light your issues with others at this table, whatever those problems may be. This realm will never reach the Utopia I've so desperately wanted when you all, the most powerful and knowledgeable of your people continue to claw away at each other's throats!"
Straightaway the entire mood had shifted and had there been a pen drop it would have been heard. Settling himself, Apollo took a couple deep breathes before speaking up once more.
"So who would like to go first?"
Days later
It had been three days and counting since his awakening from being turned, agreeing to indulge on the getaway trip planned by Selene Kayeda. But if at any point he sensed deception he wouldn't hesitate to back out but she seemed sincere and he was observant, capable of reading one's body language and expressions. However there was something he needed to accomplish before then and since his turning he still had yet to return to the manor and it would likely be quite some time before that happened.
Those thoughts were second nature as the entrance door to the Fortress of Solitude opened while both Nightwing and Batman entered and the doors closing behind them. Further in they were met by Superman who grinned and it was the caped crusader carrying a massive duffle bag over his shoulder, filled with equipment and materials.
"Batman, Nightwing, glad you could make it. Right this way," Superman specifically looked to Batman. "Everything is already in place."
"Good," the dark knight responded.
They took only a few steps before Kal emptied his throat.
"Diana told me about the getaway training. I hope it works out, and I for one trust Selene. We had plenty of time to talk during those days you were down and she seems like a generous woman. And besides Diana will be with you and I'd pity anyone who'd challenge that duo. She also tells me that Sasha will be staying on Themyscira. I'll check up on her now and then and perhaps even introduce her to Jon."
This very remark brought about a glare from Batman while Superman was unfazed.
"Not like that, you know what I meant."
Nightwing quietly tittered while Batman's expression remained blank beneath the cowl. Soon they entered into a large space that was setup like a lab and Batman laid the back out over a steel table before unzipping it and slowly removing the materials inside. Each item was set out over the table in organized fashion, some unknown liquids inside glass containers and other small gadgets and instruments and it was at this point that Nightwing scratched at the back of his head.
"Okay so I'm confused, why exactly did you want me here and what exactly are you doing?"
Batman finished arranging the last of the materials and then came numerous long sheets of laminated instructions, notes, equations and necessary steps to completing his work. And so with his shoulders tightened and lowered he looked back to them.
"You're here because aside from Alfred, both you and Clark are the people I trust most... especially with this."
"And what exactly is this?" Nightwing questioned.
"We'll get to that momentarily, but there are two parts to what I aim to accomplish here. The kryptonian ammunition and weapons, where are they?" Batman's eyes fell over Superman.
Kal-El nodded as he walked over to a wall across the room and placed a hand over a specific section of the wall as his body was then scanned and the wall sliding open and revealing an armory.
"It's all here," Superman gazed over his shoulder and back at Batman. "Now what?"
"Before I begin I'll need a sample of your blood," Batman spoke but with his back to them as he looked over all the materials atop the table.
The two gazed at each other, unsure which of them he referred to.
"My blood?" Nightwing pointed to himself.
"No," Batman turned. "His."
The assertion brought into question just what exactly he was up to, though Kal trusted him more than he did most, this certainly rose red flags. Even so he gave in to the request surrendering a portion of his blood and watching Batman separate half into two different containers. But that wasn't all as he carried another blood sample that didn't belong to the kryptonian. Another item provided to Batman, curtsey of Superman was that of a small lamp that gave off the radiance of a red sun. Between the different blood samples he administrated dissimilar chemicals and fluids to each and studied the results under a microscope. This went on for the next forty minutes before Batman stood upright and faced them.
"It's just as I thought... a success."
"What's a success?" Superman inquired.
"Have a look," Batman responded.
The kryptonian himself was also knowledgeable in biochemistry and so when he took a look under the microscope he knew what he was seeing. He started first with the blood foriegn to his own and the cells had completely deteriorated. Next he looked through both samples of his blood and he immediately picked up on the exponential difference.
"What in the world is this?" Kal stepped back and away from the table.
"You see it, don't you?" Batman posed as he looked to both samples of the kryptonian's blood. "The DPF has no effect on you, but if under a red sun exposure to it would kill even a kryptonian in a matter of seconds. But under a yellow sun your dense cellular and anatomical structure in addition to constantly absorbing solar power from the sun, your body would fight it off and eventually rid it of your system entirely."
"What is DBF?" Nightwing asked.
"It's just what I took to calling it, Deadly Progressive Fatality. The original formula was developed by a doctor Boris Arseny, who once upon a time worked for the Dark Stalker Slayers. It was years ago that his poison infected Akasiya Moka putting her on her death bed, but using his notes and research I was able to generate a cure in time before that happened."
The two across from him were completely dialed in as he continued.
"Since those years I've reviewed his formula and improved it, even creating different variations of it, A through C being the primary strands. There are hundreds and even thousands of different strands that can be worked up from the original. The first is A which is a vast upgrade from the original. When Moka was struck with the original she held on for nearly two hours and managed to survive. However, with the changes I've made with the first variant a shinso like myself if infected would be dead in a minute, two if lucky. And the thing about DBF that makes it so deadly aside from potency is its ability to acclimate and evolve inside the host if the infected immune system puts up a fight to try and cleanse it out it won't stop until the subject is killed off."
The eyes of Nightwing particularly shot open as he bit back.
"No Bruce, this isn't you... you don't kill!"
"And that'll never change," Batman nodded. "But we'll get back to the purpose of this in a moment. Variation B is next in line and unlike the first it isn't lethal and if one is infected this batch it attacks the nervous system directly. The process within the body of transmitting signals to and from different parts of its body is clouded and the person or persons infected would lose speed, precision and control of their body immensely, even the most powerful beings. And lastly is variation C, also unlethal and with this I combined Crane's fear toxin formula ramping up the effects. In short a subject infected with this experiences their greatest fears with convulsions sent through his or her body. It doesn't just affect the mind but brings pain and discomfort to the most sensitive parts in one's body."
Superman stood in place with a blank expression whilst Nightwing couldn't believe half of what he was hearing, his mentor coming off as a mad scientist; but then again that was Bruce. He was willing to go the extra distance and lengths to get something done and stay ahead of his enemies.
"And back to variation A," Batman looked into the eyes of both Kal and Grayson. "Until the events that led to my turning and what occurred thereafter I never would have considered using it... but there are two potential instances where it might become necessary and so I want you both to listen carefully."
Nightwing wasn't sure if he was ready for this but kept his ears peeled as he knew this was sure to be noteworthy.
"The first is him," Batman's tone and demeanor shifted. "The emperor, Apollo."
In one step back Superman quietly detested but waited to hear all of what the dark knight had to say before voicing his thoughts.
"There are things I've known about him that I kept from the league, and in fact it was the day we met that I reached out to John Constantine in finding all I could on this man. And truth be told it was a whole lot more than I was anticipating. He's been documented for living over twenty thousand years and of an extinct species known as the Harbingers. They were considered a formidable warrior race millenniums ago, rivaling the ancient vampires and though they didn't have the strength nor speed of a vampire they made up for this in battle prowess and defensive techniques, reading their opponent's movement and countering accordingly."
Superman had already experienced this first hand in his skirmish with Apollo and so he knew the accuracy in this statement.
"But over his reign ten thousand years ago, Apollo has greatly exceeded that of his ancestors having obtained the blood of a vampire, through that of what was said to be his first true lover... Claudia. It was because of his love for this woman that ultimately led to the demise of his entire species. But a story for another time, back on topic. Second only to Alucard Apollo is said to be the most powerful yokai to live, a battle genius, and a quick study of deducing an opponent's attacks before they're made. And he's said to be immortal, as many have tried to oppose and defeat him and have failed time and again over the past centuries when his reign truly began. He isn't limited to just one form. There is that of his standard human form, and three others that follow where his speed and strength increase with each."
"And you wish to do battle with something like that, you said he was immortal didn't you?! If he can't be killed then what chance would you have?! Your best course of action is to do what normal people do, set up something and talk it out!" Nightwing asserted.
Batman went silent for a moment but it was more than clear he was far from done.
"Yes that is right, but he isn't unbeatable... which couldn't be clearer during the war with Alucard at the top of his power. Even the great Apollo couldn't best him. And that brings us back to variation A to DBF. Constantine also detailed that of a Harbinger's DNA and biology. I've had hours upon hours to study it and will continue to do so, but even the bloodline of a Harbinger in comparison from a regenerative state and overall structure was nothing like that of a vampire. The poison itself was originally created to kill vampires and Apollo has the very blood of a vampire running through his veins which afforded him immortality, and as I've showed you even the likes of a kryptonian who're by far from a cellular standpoint the most impressive race in physical capabilities between aliens and monsters alike can be killed then he wouldn't go on unscathed. Granted that holds true only under that of a red sun. But back to the point, Harbingers if in battle sustain substantial injuries can willingly or if critical their bodies shutdown on itself and enter a state of dormancy."
At this point Kal-El started to have an idea of what the dark knight was getting at.
"If infected with this poison in his bloodstream, Apollo would in theory die, which is why I produced an alternative to variation A. One that would instead send him into a permanent state of dormancy and defeated. As I told you before the poison continuously evolves until its host is killed off, but I've worked around these kinks. We'd be looking at a living sleeping beauty, for eternity. Apollo has defeated the best of the best in his realm, strategists, others who've tried deception and with the same result... but he doesn't know me. He's powerful and as I've learned of his true form, human bullets and ammunition would have no effect getting through if in his true form, which is why..."
"You've turned to me in asking for kryptonian weapons..."
Superman's fists clinched as he knew exactly what it was Batman now planned. With the creation of the poison and such weapons at his disposal it gave him a secret edge.
"Bruce, this is nuts!" Nightwing spoke up. "He's the emperor and ruler of an entire realm! If you wage war with him, he's got the entirety of them backing him!"
"And I've got the Justice League," Batman glared. "You're missing the point, I'm not out to tousle with this man... unless he pursues my life or daughter's again. I know what happens to those turned and the vampire responsible for the turning. As of now I'm sensitizing a way of converting each variation into gas form for additional options."
"That won't happen, he gave me his word he wouldn't harm the girl and I believe him," Superman voiced. "Nightwing is right Bruce, you need to stop this! I believe deep down his intentions are pure and his heart is in the right place. If he were such a bad guy, he's had centuries upon centuries to show it. And as I've been told the Justice League has been held in high regard within the monster world and so confrontation with its emperor would look terrible on both sides. There would be no winner."
"Fine, and let's say we get through this stretch and you're right, that's good... but what if you aren't? Better to be prepared than not. It's my life he's possibly after and I won't take anyone's protection… not even yours. This isn't your fight Clark, don't get involved. So I'll ask one more time, will you or will you not afford me the weapons?"
"You're making something out of nothing," Superman closed his eyes shaking his head. "Apollo wouldn't kill the father of his own grandchild…"
Grayson immediately looked to Kal as Batman did the same and there was a long period as Superman really just took the time to think and consider all possible outcomes. And in his last statement there was vagueness as he didn't know for sure, but his motto was always looking for the good in people and hoping for the best and this circumstance was no different. Batman did make a point and perhaps not now, but there was no telling what the future held and how today a friend would then be an enemy tomorrow.
"I will," Superman breathed out. "Only because I trust you and use them only under the condition that it becomes absolutely necessary."
"Good and now that leads us to the primary purpose for the lethal version of variation A," Batman looked the two of them off. "They say once a human is turned, he or she doesn't always just lose their humanity but self-assurance, persona and who they were... turning to bloodlust and uncontrollable thirst for battle and sometimes rage. If this ever occurs and I become something that I'm not, I want you to put an end to it. Which is why I'm going to give you a set of it, but tell no one."
This time Batman's eyes specifically fell on Nightwing.
"I want you to be the one to end me. I could never ask Damian or Alfred and I'd prefer that..."
"No!" Nightwing tightened his fists. "Just because you're now a vampire, that doesn't change who you are on the inside! I could never do that, I won't kill you! And even if by some chance it did come to that, I'm not sure any of us could have stopped you before your turning and now with you being like this, it would be just about impossible..."
"Nothing is impossible," Batman tossed him a small sample of DBF inside that of a small tranquillizer gun. "All it'll take is one shot and if you fail... then I leave it to him."
Batman's eyes looked to Superman, whose shoulders tightened at the thought of putting down his ally and friend. And both knew no poison or weapon would be needed.
"I can't," Nightwing dropped the gun at his feet. "It won't come to that, I believe in you and I'd rather die than be the one to pull that trigger. And forgive my curiosity but how and where did Constantine go about gathering such information?"
"Undocumented," Batman answered honestly. "A demon from the depths of the underworld that knows the past, present and future."
"Please do tell me there's a cure to this," Superman marched forward with a frown. "Especially considering if this poison of yours ended up in the wrong hands."
"There is," Batman nodded. "I would never manifest something this dangerous without an antidote."
Both Superman and Nightwing breathed a sigh of relief at this as Batman turned his back and headed for the table and took a stack of laminated sheets into his gloved hands as he again looked to Kal.
"It's time to go over the second reason we're here," Batman took a single step. "Where are the specs to the Phantom Zone Projector?"
The kryptonian simply gestured for the dark knight to follow to another section of the room and by voice command a hologram screen appeared covering the entire wall with specs and breakdowns on the machine but in krypton's language.
"Give me a moment to convert it to something readable," Superman stepped atop a nearby panel and did exactly this.
The specs were uploaded to a small device and given to Batman and if he had questions he knew exactly who to ask.
"I've given you what you've wanted, now tell me why," Superman looked to Batman. "What are you working on this time?"
"There's a woman, an exceptional material artist and first daughter of Issa Shuzen. You clashed with her seven years ago. Her fighting ability and physical attributes aside she has the ability of..."
"The Jigen-Tou," Superman nodded his head. "I remember that night and facing her. Don't tell me you've stumbled upon a way to counter the effects of that technique."
"Yes and no, only temporary," Batman responded.
"Tell more, I'd like to hear this."
"I've devised a weapon and idea that when completed will have the capability of suspending and or completely shutting off the dimension which the Jigen-Tou user uses to go intangible. Handheld explosives that when used on the target an electric current is sent through their body and they will lose the ability to tap into that dimension for one minute to two. Only one of these can be used at a time and after the first another can't be used until ten minutes after the first if my calculations are correct, but I won't know for certain until it's tested on the field."
Nightwing chortled as he scratched at the side of his head.
"Okay I get you're a genius and all, but how did you even come up with the specs that could counter and close off a dimension, even if for a short time? That's some really complicated stuff."
Moving back somewhat, Batman let out a sigh.
"I can't take all the credit, most of that goes to Katur Masato who was the Deputy Director for Operations during the Alucard attack. It was seven years ago that I sought him out after my first encounter with Bloodriver Akasha. He was a human friend of Tenmei Mikogami and he provided me with not only info on her, but all of Fairy Tale, which included Akua Shuzen and her Jigen-Tou technique. The intel detailed a full analysis of how it works and I used this to work up something that could temporarily plug the dimensional transfer. And now with the Phantom Zone projector's specs I'll reverse engineer the details and bring the weapon to fruition. But don't be fooled, even without the technique Akua Shuzen is still easily one of Fairy Tale's most deadly and formidable members."
For others it would have been baffling by how much the knight put into learning about potential enemies and all the contingencies he put in place but not for the two of them. He was devoted and even obsessive when it came to the mission. There was no one more prepared than Batman for an upcoming battle, even if the end result didn't fall in his favor.
"But all this and even the yokai emperor are the least of my worries. It's him, Demitri Maximoff. Vampires are prideful warriors and as we've covered he'll be back to finish what he started."
"But you won't be alone this time, we'll have your..."
"No," Batman glared, cutting off Nightwing. "I'm going to give him exactly what he wants, a one on one against me and this time I'll be ready. The first go around I believed he shared weaknesses of the broader vampire bloodline in the yokai realm, but I was wrong. This go around there's many differences, me being a vampire one. And I've got something in the works for that exact occasion. But until the conclusion of my training and return from the island of Alvasleha, it'll be put on hold."
XXX
The crowds were loud and some stomping their feet as the day had finally come and the main event itself living up to the hype as more than seventy five percent of the combatants were either ringed out or defeated. The elf royals and those attending from outside the kingdom were equally as entertained as they applauded and shouted. The two vampires, members of the Asagao sat inside the king's box, enjoying the show just as much as everyone else if not more.
"This is great, even better than last years!" Princess Sienna applauded.
"I can attest to that, seems there is much better talent all around this year," Prince Arlo added.
Beside the prince was his second in command and greatest ally, Abrell. The two vampires just silently watched along with Isla, but most the crowds were anything but.
Those inside the ring went at each other with much speed as only thirteen fighters remained. Countless strikes and blades colliding were continuous. One took to the air landing in between Black Canary and Luke, grabbing hold of her hair and pulling Dinah down as he simultaneously tossed a spear straight at Luke who dodged. With the use of her canary cry Dinah separated him off of her as he was sent soaring out of the ring. Luke had recovered a staff from a fallen fighter and knocked away projectiles that were thrown in his direction.
Dinah joined his side finishing off the one responsible with her canary cry. Next Luke ducked down as she jumped over him punching into the face of a tan, reddish goblin which lost his footing and dropped to the ground. Luke followed up by kicking him out of the ring and then punching another out who came at him from his blindside. Now back to back with some space between them and the closes enemy Canary and Luke stayed on guard. The battle royal was nearing its end and all they needed to do was last just a little while longer and freedom was theirs. They watched as two combatants went at it and a series of slashes to the chest forcing another out of the ring and to his defeat. Finding the opening that they needed, the two way duo targeted a seven nine foot ogre, going after his legs as he swung a massive hammer at the two.
His size and power was tremendous but he however greatly lacked in speed as Dinah and Luke used this to their advantage forcing him out of the kick with a double flying kick. They didn't have much time to reset as another small group of fighters came at them without restraint and as they had done the entire time Luke and Dinah fought in sync as they ringed out the sizeable group. It was then that the roars within the crowds grew as both Dinah and Luke looked around and including themselves there were only five fighters remaining in the ring.
It was over, finally over and as they had set out to do what they worked so hard on for weeks, standing tall as the battle royal had concluded and they remained in the top five! Freedom was upon them... assuming the kingdom of Vindellorien kept its word.
To be continued
- 10
- 11
- 12
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Clash of Realms