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Seal of Darkness	By : RaphaelTMNT Category: -Misc Anime > Crossovers Views: 4281 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: I do not own Batman, 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
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Seal of Darkness
CHP21: Mission Failure

The entire walk home was a joy and she couldn't stop smiling, having been days since she felt so good. There was nothing more important than the bonds built with all her friends, each holding a special place in her heart. Tsukune was clearly the man she loved and though she and the other girls fought for his affection, Moka appreciated every single one of them. Her life wouldn't be what it was without them, the vampire holding dear the many memories created during their time attending Yokai Academy. She arrived in front of her apartment complex and entered, the vampire looking forward to a good night's rest. She noticed a set of curtains blowing back and forth across the room, the window left open. A small picture had fallen off a table and the air circulating from outside was cool, so she went ahead and closed it, running a hand over the glass.
"Akashiya," a voice spoke from a dark corner of the room.
The vampire almost jumped out of her shoes and her heart pounding uncontrollably, but quickly settled as she set eyes on the caped crusader.
"We need to talk," he emerged from a corner of the room.
"Talk?! More like are you tryna give me a heart attack! Who the hell gave you permission to break in and enter, that is completely against the law and way uncalled for! You could have waited outside or..."
"Enough," Batman stepped forward. "Time to make our move."
"Our move?" Moka flicked on a nearby light switch. "Have you found something?"
The dark knight nodded as Moka sat over the sofa. Had it not been for her past and familiarity with the enemy, he wouldn't have bothered contacting her at all. She and her colleagues were no amateurs in combat or facing dire situations and he knew it, each a yokai possessing unique abilities and strength.
"I've dialed in on a specific location where the first Drocgoeu lies, and its likely being held in one of two locations."
"You have," Moka leaned forward. "Where at and how?!"
"Puerto Rico and our man of interest is Valdro Zumas, a resident of the country. He's a world traveler and just a couple miles from Cabo Rojo and within the country he owns a large storage facility. It is said most his collectibles are stored in that building."
"How did you come to this conclusion and are you certain of this?"
"I cannot positively say for certain, but it's worth checking out and I'm confident in the source," Batman replied.
"The source?"
"Akasha...your mother."
The silver haired vampire bit at her lower lip and positioned one leg over the other.
"You've been working with mother? Aren't you aware sh..."
"She's allied with the very enemy we share, yes I'm quite aware. However even you should have a clue as to her situation, assuming you two have talked. Akasha's intentions are pure, but we must stay vigilant. I doubt she'd go through with any act that would put mankind in jeopardy or monsters for that matter."
"Do you trust her?" Moka asked.
He knew the answer to the question but didn't answer immediately and instead looked the vampire off.
"I trust you more than I do her. That said, you're the embodiment of your mother, prideful, a warrior and you care for all living creatures, no matter the type. That part of you was inherited from her, though she wasn't present for a majority of your upbringing. And for that I trust her, she has not given me a reason not to, but I've succumb to betrayal and deceit before. That sense of trust is guarded and in one wrong move it's gone...that applies to you as well," Batman looked into the vampire's eyes.
"Sounds like someone's endured toxic relationships," Moka halfway snickered.
"Book an early trip tomorrow morning, we need to get on this fast as possible. If you're planning to travel with your group, then I suggest contacting them tonight and explaining the situation. Kiria Yoshii and Fairy Tale have the same information and we must get to it before them," Batman looked to the exit.
Moka coughed getting his attention.
"Why not travel together? That would benefit all of us, and that way we could work up an effective plan."
"No," Batman reached into his utility belt and pulled out a small device. "We will travel separately, but in the meantime I want you to have this."
Batman handed Moka the small device and she looked it over curiously. It was in the color of gray and at the center was a button in the color of purple.
"This item will enable you to contact me by pressing at the button. It is untraceable so don't bother wasting your time attempting to find my location. When you touch down in Puerto Rico give me a call, or if something changes and you're unable to make it. Either way I'll get to the key before they do."
"How much have you been speaking with mother and what has she said?"
The dark knight stopped short of the door.
"That's unimportant, but you're welcome to contact her directly if you wish."
He exited without another word and Moka stared at the electronic left behind in her possession. It resembled a phone, but different in overall design.
"Gin, Tsukune and Kurumu-chan!" the vampire voiced her thoughts.
She dropped the small device over the coffee table and pulled out a cellphone from her pocket. There was no time to waste and Tsukune was the first she dialed. Halfway down the block Batman jumped into the batmobile and was on his way. In the press of a button the face of his butler appeared on screen.
"Alfred, have you heard back from Nightwing?"
"Yes sir. He and Master Timothy are in route to the manor."
"And the private jet?"
"All is in order sir, the takeoff time is scheduled for the next hour."
"Perfect, I'll be arriving soon. I want to get a head start on things, the enemy isn't heading out until early tomorrow in my estimation. It'll give me breathing room to determine if the Drocgoeu is where I believe it to be and if so, how much security we'll be up against. And if not, an opportunity to locate the key before their arrival."
"It seems you've mapped out your trip to perfection, very good. The transportation of the bike is in route along with the surveillance drones as you requested. Shall I prepare a meal before your departure?"
"Greatly appreciated, thanks."
In one click the screen went blank and the remainder of the ride was quiet, silently playing out countless scenarios that might occur in his head. Just as him, the enemy was plotting for the next forty eight hours. Three persons sat at a table and another paced back and forth with his arms crossed. The map was of Puerto Rico and certain sections were marked.
"I don't get it! Why the hell send the entirety of what we have stationed here when I'm plenty capable of doing it myself!" Jitoshi complained.
"You don't listen do you?" Kahlua glared, looking up from the map. "Anyone of us is capable of completing the mission alone, but that isn't the point. We'll separate in two groups, one will pursue the key and the other is merely a decoy. And not all of us are making the trip, Morrigan has decided to stay behind."
"Decoy...what the hell do we need a decoy for!" Jitoshi yelled.
"His majesty wants to be prepared for anything, which includes unexpected hurdles. We have an enemy in the form of Aono Tsukune and all his followers. Nee-chan eluded our attempts at capturing her last time and by now she's likely regrouped with Aono," Kahlua added.
"What does that have to do with us?" the male vampire halted further movement.
"Jitoshi," Lailay Izami spoke up. "You should be able to figure that much out yourself. If Tsukune and his monster friends just so happen to drop in unexpectedly we'd have them greatly outnumbered, especially taking in account the addition of Todd Heinstan's men that'll be at our disposal."
He understood the point but still didn't agree with the superiors' decision. Even so, he had no choice but to go along with it.
"Better get our rest, we head out first thing in the morning when Akasha-sama arrives," Kahlua said.
Felicia also sat at the table but didn't say much, instead listening to the others. The process of what they were to do had already been discussed, all that remained was sorting through and finalizing how they wished to execute the task proficiently.
XXX
Drying off, he pushed through the bathroom door dressed in a dark blue robe. A laptop was atop a small table, one in which he packed for the trip. He sat at the desk and started the software up in one click. The early trip over had proven beneficial, settling in and he even got a glimpse into the location of interest. Of course he did so from afar, but in the hour spent gathered quite a bit from the amount of security and overall machinery surrounding the building. Aside from that, something else occupied his thoughts and that was the enemy. He thought for sure they'd take a discrete approach regarding their arrival but that wasn't so. A knock at the door disrupted his concentration and pushed up and away from the chair.
"Who is it?" he asked.
"Room service," a voice replied from the other side of the room.
He recognized the voice so walked across the carpet, opening the door without hesitation and standing there were two of his closes allies. Both stepped through and one sat over a nearby sofa with his legs propped atop a table.
"Find out anything new?" Richard Grayson inquired.
"Actually I do have something," Bruce returned to the table sitting in front of the computer. "The enemy touched down nearly two hours ago at Reigi Hundez Hurun International. I can't say when they'll make a move and we can't let up for any reason."
Tim leaned against a wall with his arms crossed and glimpsed out a nearby window.
"Strange that I'm even questioning you, but...how in the world did you figure the time of their arrival. You've been locked up in this room since we scouted out the landmark bordering Valdro Zumas's storage facility," Dick said.
"Correct, but there are things neither of you know. Todd's personal assistant is yokai, in the form of a vampire and showing herself off as human. Even so, her presence works in our favor. I wouldn't categorize her as an enemy, but we cannot drop our guard and that includes around her."
"You don't trust her?" Tim inquired.
Dick chuckled removing his legs off the table.
"What else is new? Who is she?" Grayson looked to Bruce.
"Akasha Bloodriver, a vampire of the shinso bloodline. She's also the mother of Moka Akashiya and previous leader of the Dark Lords."
"Hold on pause," Grayson leaned forward with his hands in front of him. "Dark Lords, daughter, Moka...I'm lost."
Bruce looked away from the computer screen and cleared his throat.
"Moka Akashiya is the woman you met the other night, masked and under the name Vampire Bat. Her mother is one of the Dark Lords, who obtained that name following their defeat of Alucard. Akasha is one thing, but I do believe Moka and her allies are trustworthy."
"Enough to tell them everything?" Tim asked.
"If you're referring to my secret, no. Moka hasn't a clue Bruce Wayne is Batman and for now that won't change. I gave Moka a way of contacting me should she and her friends make the trip."
Grayson repositioned in his chair and raised an eyebrow.
"How many of them are there? Seems odd you'd include outsiders on..."
"They're familiar with this enemy and it isn't my place to keep them out. Moka is physically essential to their plans in some way and I intend to find out how," Bruce interrupted Grayson.
Both Richard and Tim shot each other a knowing look.
"If that's the case, then why?" Dick directed his attention to Bruce. "If the enemy seeks her, shouldn't she be far away from the action as possible?"
Bruce exhaled leaning back in the chair with two fingers to his chin.
"As I said before it isn't for me to decide. Moka is plenty capable of looking after herself and the call is hers to make. She is aware of the situation and I'll do everything in my power to make sure they don't get her or the Drocgoeu."
Stepping away from the wall Tim paced along the carpet peeking out a nearby window.
"What's the plan?" he asked blandly.
"Until I've heard back from Akashiya things will go as this," Bruce dropped his hands over the table. "I will infiltrate the facility on my own and the two of you will remain on standby. You will keep a lookout for the enemy and I'll radio for you if needed."
"Again with trying to take command on your own, we're a team!" Dick clinched his fists.
"There is no other way," Bruce stood from the chair. "Your eyes on the premises are just as important as obtaining the key and holding the enemy off if it comes to that. The entire dynamic changes if Moka and her..."
Bruce's voice drifted off as his ears picked up on a ringing sound, Tim and Grayson listening in on the same sound. Knowing exactly where it came from he pulled open a small bag atop the bed. He took a small device into his hands. He pressed at a button over its left side and positioned it against his ear.
"Akashiya," he voiced, but his tone deepened.
Knowing exactly who was on the other line Tim and Dick looked at each other but the moment short.
"Where are you, we've arrived?" the silver haired vampire spoke on the other end.
Tsukune's resources/earnings coupled with Moka's since he took over as the headmaster of Yokai academy was paying huge dividends.
"You needn't worry about my location, we'll meet when it becomes convenient. Are you somewhere discrete?"
"No one will hear that doesn't need to," Moka replied.
"Good, then listen carefully, I'm going to explain how this operation is going to work."
"I'm listening," the vampire replied.
XXX
In front of a mirror he stood looking himself over and adjusting his collar. He was dressed in a gray vest, white under shirt, gray dress jacket on the top, dark blue tie and black pants. Lastly was a gold watch over his wrist and he exited the hotel room. Having personal information of hers was proving beneficial. He walked down the hall gazing at the screen of a small device, inspecting a withdrawal of $28.67 from a specific account and the name Seaside Fall beside it. The location was a short two miles from the hotel so wouldn't take him long. Down the elevator and through the automatic doors of the lobby he took off in a rental car.
With the use of a GPS the drive was short and pulled up inside the parking lot of Seaside Fall. He stepped out and pulled a set of shades from his pocket. Walking across the concrete pavement and through the main doors he placed them over his eyes. There was no sign of her in the waiting area or the first level for that matter and with that he looked to an employee working behind the desk. He greeted her with a smile.
"Do you have a reservation, if not there's a line?" the woman questioned.
"Yes and no, I'm actually looking for a friend."
"Do you have a name?"
"Misaki...Akasha Misaki," he replied.
The employee across from him smiled and without looking into the computer she recalled the name.
"I remember, she was quite gorgeous and should be on the second level."
"Was she alone?"
"Uh huh, but the way all the men were whistling and cat calling she might not be anymore," the woman laughed.
"Thanks."
He walked up the steps to the second level and looked around. It was much louder than the lower level and more crowded. His eyes surveyed through the room and still she was nowhere to be found. He took several steps forward and looked to a nearby glass door and realized there was an outside section. Bypassing the crowds he pushed through the door and stepped out onto the balcony like area. There were tables, but it wasn't part of the serving area and therefore no one stood around. Reality set in that he'd likely missed the vampire, her stay a very short one. Even so the ocean view was fantastic and he had a difficult time looking away.
The waves mounted, colliding viciously and the sights and sounds of it were soothing to both his mind and spirit. It made him want to forget his life problems and just stare for hours. It was already after six o'clock and the sun had already begun to set, the colors of bright oranges, yellows and reds seizing the sky. The door behind him veered open and was followed by footsteps, but he was unfazed. His eyes never drifted from the glorious view, everything else an afterthought.
"Beautiful, isn't it?" the footsteps came to a stop behind him.
Without budging he knew exactly who spoke, the softness in her tone unmistakable. Slowly revolving around he looked over a woman dressed in a black skirt and white blouse, high heels and black bow tied in her long pink hair.
"You made it," she carried a small alcoholic beverage setting it over a table. "I knew that you would."
"Akasha..."
"I am surprised you tracked me here specifically," the vampire positioned beside him on the railing. "How'd you do it?"
"Out drinking and alone, I find that odd taking into account the Drocgoeu...the reason we're both here. How many of you made the trip and when do you plan to make your move?"
"What's wrong with a hello, how're you doing? Always straight to the point, aren't you Bruce?"
He stared into her jade colored eyes with no intention of replying to the remark and Akasha turned looking out to the ocean. It didn't take him long to do the same and they stayed that way for some time.
"We will be operating in three separate groups," the vampire spoke, but her gaze glued to the sunset. "One on standby, another to retrieve the Drocgoeu and the third as a decoy."
"Decoy?" Bruce raised an eyebrow behind the shades.
"Yes," Akasha nodded. "His Majesty has planned ahead and taken into account things might not go as planned, hence outside interference. Not to say you were in mind, but rather my..."
"Your daughter," he finished her thought. "Makes sense, your firms failed attempt at her kidnap should have them on high alert. Logically she'd attempt to piece together and figure out why and with Aono as an alley who has the resources of your late colleague Tenmei Mikogami, that wouldn't be farfetched they might catch on."
"Sharp as a spear, but where is the Drocgoeu?"
"Naturally the storage facility under his name, after all it's been said all his findings are taken there," Bruce replied.
Akasha let out a laugh, one in which that caused his shoulders to tighten. There weren't many better at reading people than himself and in just that simple act confirmed something. The thought however became second nature as Akasha pulled the shades off his eyes and tossed them over the table behind them.
"That's much better," she smirked looking him in the eyes and running a finger over the left side of his face. "I enjoyed the evening we spent together, and maybe you want to forget it ever happened but there was no shame in what we did."
Bruce looked away and exhaled.
"I'm not here to talk about that..." Bruce said in almost a whisper.
"Yes, I know," the vampire's gaze returned to the ocean view out in front of them. "I suppose it's understandable you're having a hard time trusting me. Actions speak louder than words, so I shall prove my worth. But don't get it twisted, I don't have to prove myself to you or anyone, I'm simply looking out for what's best for not only my kind but humans alike."
In two steps to her right the vampire wrapped her arms around Bruce's left arm and lowered her head over his shoulder. A small tingle zipped through his body, but didn't mind the sudden action.
"I wish things were different, I really do but that doesn't mean you have to box me out. I understand your pain," she rubbed the side of her face against his shoulder. "And how it drives you."
"You already know we can't. Last night is as far we go, acting out of compulsion or lust isn't smart," Bruce said.
The vampire removed her arms from his and backed off a couple steps, looking at him directly.
"You've slept around, or did I misinterpret the rumors?"
"Mostly for show. Taking on the bachelor status diverts unwanted attention that might go places I'd rather it not."
"You don't get pleasure from it?" Akasha asked curiously.
"Physically, yes. But it goes without an emotional attachment, just a physical act of pleasure used to fulfill a desire in the moment. I don't stay in a single relationship for long because of this, in my line of work there's no place for anything serious or long term. The mission is everything."
"And what about me, what makes me different from those women? You have no issue taking them to bed, but with me," Akasha's eyes fell over the wooden surface beneath her feet. "Is it because I'm a..."
"No! It has nothing to do with you being yokai."
"Then what?!" she shot back.
He ran a hand over his face and through his hair, taking a deep breath. It was almost baffling how the subject matter changed so drastically. He had hoped avoiding any conversation concerning their personal relationship, but it was too late for that. Bruce leaned over the railing gazing into the colorful atmosphere.
"You aren't just any other woman, I can't."
The vampire looked him over and blinked a couple times before crossing her terms.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
His grip tightened over the railing and couldn't figure why she wouldn't just let it go. But it was clear she would keep going until a satisfying answer was given.
"Most my relationships are cover ups, which is why I don't allow them to last long. Clearly the circumstance is vastly different between you and I. Primarily your insight on what goes on behind the scenes," he looked away from the waves and into her eyes. "I couldn't bring myself to use you like that. Any woman that has gotten too close, usually ends up getting hurt."
"And what makes you think I'm like any other woman?"
"That isn't the point, I care enough that I don't want to see you get hurt...isn't that enough?"
The vampire's cheeks turned a bright pink as she blushed and looked away.
"Sleeping with each other for purely the physical pleasure is out of the question because of what we know, of each other and our situations. If it is the act of sex you seek then perhaps you should locate Issa your..."
He was silenced with a slap to the face and stumbled off balance but held firm against the railing. Rubbing a hand over his now sore cheek Bruce looked her in the face, but her gaze lacked an inviting presence as it normally did, replaced by one of fury and hurt.
"How could you say something like that!? What I feel for you is so much more than that. All the conversations and time spent together with you has been the best thing about my trip to Gotham. You'd fall short of my standards in bed, lack of tenacity and stamina...qualities a human just doesn't possess enough of to please a yokai of my level. If it was sex I wanted there are plenty of men that would freely offer themselves to me. Clearly my only mistake has been fancying and falling for you!" Akasha marched toward the exit.
Bruce bit back with clinched fists and took off after her, grabbing at the vampire's wrist.
"Akasha wait!"
"Don't touch me!" she hissed.
Akasha reached for the doorknob but the door held shut and the vampire trapped between his arms.
"Move out of the way!" she grumbled.
Bruce let out a sigh but didn't budge and stayed that way for seconds.
"Akasha I'm...I'm sorry. What I said was inconsiderate...I didn't mean it like that."
For him, getting those words out were difficult. Expressing that sort of emotion didn't come easy given his emotional scars.
"Damn right it was, move aside!" Akasha demanded.
Bruce held firm over the door with no intention of letting go.
"Please," he spoke in almost a whisper. "Let's not part like this."
The vampire clutched her fists and took deep breaths trying to calm herself. It took everything within her inner to keep from lashing out at him with force.
"Look at me," he spoke softly.
She felt his breath across the back of her neck and felt a shiver travel up her spine as she bit at her lip.
"Akasha..." he whispered.
Her options were to face him or use force and she rolled her eyes as she faced him. Even so she wouldn't look at him directly and her head slightly tilted to her right, back pressed against the door and her fingers tapping at it. The tension and lack of comfort were clear in not only her posture but her eyes as well.
"Look at me."
He reached out to grab at her chin but she slapped his hand away.
"Yur a jerk!" she gave him eye contact, but for only a moment.
"You're right, I am. Surprised it took you so long?"
The vampire halfway smiled at the sarcastic remark and Bruce grinned as a response.
"Good luck tonight," she gazed into his dark azure eyes. "You'll need it."
She pushed at his chest and with just enough strength without sending him clear across the deck, the vampire put enough space between them and took off through the door. He watched her through the glass window as she bypassed the tables packed with customers and down the steps. His initial reaction was to punch at a wall, which he did. She was not only valuable concerning gathering info on Fairy Tale's agenda, but she was also someone he'd developed feelings for. And it was clear he misjudged the way she felt about him. He wasn't in town for her so shook the thought off, the mission top priority. As she marched down the steps she wanted nothing more than to wrap her finger around his neck and strangle him until he was ended, but another part of her cried out for him and hoped he'd come running after her. That however didn't happen and she pushed open the entrance door as she passed through the lobby.
"Insulting me like that, who the hell does he think he is!?"
She marched down the last set of steps and through the parking lot. Pushing away from the wall Bruce returned to the railing and watched the sun set before recovering his shades off the table and setting them over his eyes. He then reached into his pocket and pulled out his cell phone, dialing a specific number. What he had initially thought about the key's whereabouts were false and needed to turn his attention elsewhere.
"Where you at? Tim and I have been loo..."
"Dick, there's been a change in plans," Bruce interrupted. "Not entirely, just one small detail so listen up."
"All ears, whatsup?"
XXX
Three persons stood atop a building awaiting those who had yet to arrive. One stared at the moon and got absorbed in its glow. Footsteps from the other side of the roof brought him back to reality and approaching was a woman. She had blue hair, tied back with a purple maid headband with one star on the side. Her attire consisted of a leather jacket that had short sleeves and was body tight around her arms and torso, a green tartan skirt and black detachable suspenders connected to her black stockings. Topping it was black boots and she wore a black thong.
"Hiya Tsukune!" the succubus waved, walking passed both Moka and Gin.
"Ah, hey Kurumu-chan," Tsukune stood from his kneeled position.
The succubus skipped forward twirling around a couple times to give Tsukune an in depth view of her outfit.
"What do you think Tsukune, pretty cute huh?" Kurumu winked as she came to a stop.
"I love it Kurumu-chan, it looks great on you," Tsukune chuckled nervously.
"Yes it does," Moka chimed in. "If we were attending a gentlemen's club that is."
Kurumu's teeth gritted and tightened her fists facing the vampire with a smug expression.
"Butt out, no one asked you!"
"Gotta agree with Tsukune," Gin stepped in past Moka. "That outfit really does bring out your beauty, just as tonight. The moon's glow is just perfect and from this spot on the roof we've got a perfect view of the city from up high."
"What do you want?" Kurumu asked with suspicious eyes.
"I've been putting together a portfolio as you know, for business purposes of course. How about a photoshoot, a solo of course. You're the perfect model and as said before, strictly for business. Just a couple shots, a few sexy poses and then we're done."
The succubus glared into the werewolf's eyes with clutched fists.
"Business my foot! This is for your own personal pleasure, as if I'd willing handover suggestive photos of myself to you, keep dreaming!" Kurumu crossed her arms with closed eyes.
Not a moment later a snapping sound was followed by a bright flash and Kurumu's heart jumped and her eyes shot open.
"Great shot that combination of stuck up and agitated is so cute on you," Gin grinned.
"No, no you can't! Erase it now!" the succubus shouted, only to have the flash go off again.
"Wow, anger looks really good on you as well," the werewolf took an additional shot seeing as her guard was dropped.
"No, stop!" Kurumu ran after Gin who took off. "Erase those damn photos or I break the camera!"
"How about option C?"
"You think I'm joking?!" Kurumu shot back.
Moka's eyes followed them as they ran all around the roof and she snickered.
"They make quite the pair," the vampire looked to Tsukune. "Wouldn't you agree?"
"Yeah, I suppose," Tsukune chuckled.
Though on the run Kurumu caught the exchange and came to a sliding stop.
"Shut your face, this perv and I would never be a pair...never in a million years! You'd say anything to isolate Tsukune and yourself, but that's not going to happen. Long as there's breath in this body he's mine!"
"Keep telling yourself that," Moka murmured.
"Mind saying that a bit louder?" Kurumu marched forward.
Her steps were hindered as another flash went off from the left side of her face and she looked to Gin who slowly lowered the camera.
"Lens not focused, gee that would have been a good one," the werewolf lowered his head at the blurry photo.
He didn't have very much time to mop as she was quickly back on his trail. Within inches of the roof's ledge he threw out one leg and used it as leverage back flipping over the succubus only a foot behind him. The wind blew her skirt around and just as he touched down on his knees, Gin got off a shot that captured her lower legs up through her skirt.
"Gold!" the werewolf grinned.
"I'm going to kill you!"
Tsukune shook his head and ran in between them as Kurumu darted at Gin with more speed than before.
"That's enough Kurumu-chan," he rested his hands over her shoulders and looked to Gin. "No more pictures, we need to stay focused."
"Make him erase the photos!" Kurumu demanded.
Tsukune exhaled, never looking away from Gin.
"She never consented to the picture taking, so get rid..."
"Oh would you look at that," Gin interrupted with a dubious grin. "The battery just died, very unfortunate. Erasing will have to wait."
"Liar!" Kurumu tried to power past Tsukune, but he held her firm with his vampire strength.
"No more Kurumu-chan, we aren't here to fight and argue amongst each other."
His words calmed her and she took a couple deep breaths before backing off. Tsukune breathed a sigh of relief removing his hands from her shoulders and Moka couldn't have been more entertained. Each of the four looked upward in response to a loud thump, and above them stood two persons atop a neighboring building. Both leaped downward and joined the group and Moka was the only one that recognized them. She stepped forward and approached both as her friends looked on.
"Where is he?" Moka asked.
"If you mean tall dark and broody, well there's been a slight change in plans."
The one opposite of Moka and speaking stood at 5'10 and dressed in black armor with a massive blue symbol over the chest that resembled a hawk and black mask over his eyes with glowing white lenses. Nightwing moved passed Moka eying the rest of the group, before looking back to the silver haired vampire. She was quite the sight in her disguise as Vampire Bat, but was even prettier out of uniform. The long silver hair with streaks of pink at the ends was certainly different than the purple he'd seen during their first encounter.
"You gonna introduce us to your friends, Moka?" Nightwing asked.
"You know my name," she bit back with a hint of agitation. "He told you?"
"Yup," the masked hero grinned.
"How much?" Moka rolled her eyes.
She knew next to nothing about the dark knight whilst he seemed to know everything about her and was passing that information on to others. The silver haired vampire didn't like it.
"Just the essentials, but don't worry besides Batman only he and I know," Nightwing pointed to the one standing off to the side of him.
"And when does this circle of trust break open? Clearly there aren't secrets from my end, seeing as Batman has deduced just about everything. Does he ever intend to spill the beans and give up his..."
"Identity," Nightwing interrupted. "No. If he feels it necessary than maybe he changes his mind at some point. Our civilian identities are essential to what we do and having them compromised would be problematic."
Moka wanted to retort but she instead decided not to continue on with the subject, knowing there would come a time and place but for the time being they had more important matters at hand. Tsukune's eyes drifted to the one standing beside Nightwing and took an even closer look.
"That must be Robin..."
He'd come across a handful of photos in the past forty eight hours during his research and he was sure of it. Kurumu shot forward beside Moka and took a look at the masked heroes for herself.
"Allies of the Batman huh, so where's the knight himself? I was so looking forward to seeing him in person, especially the way Moka and Gin have went on about him," the succubus threw her hair back.
Nightwing specifically looked to Kurumu and whistled as a smirk shaped.
"Digging the school girl look," he extended an arm offering a hand. "Name's Nightwing and you?"
The succubus blushed and for and stared at his gloved hand before eventually taking it into her own.
"Kurono Kurumu."
"Kurumu huh," Nightwing's smile grew. "That's a beautiful name."
"Thanks," she said bashfully.
The other beside Nightwing scratched at the side of his head, partially surprised his teammate would be so flirtatious at a time like the present. But he realized that's just who Dick was and he could do nothing but smile.
"And who're you?" the succubus looked to the other who hadn't spoken.
"Red Robin," he took a step forward. "Batman has suggested we group with you bunch and head out to Valdro's storage facility, but Nightwing and myself will lead the charge. If anyone takes issue with that, now would be the time to say so."
The masked hero eyed each of the four yokai but not a single of them spoke.
"Good," Red Robin grinned. "Then we head out now."
"Timeout, what about the bat," Gin stepped forward. "Where is Batman?"
Silence followed with nothing said by either Nightwing or Red Robin and that silence brought about an uneasiness. Red Robin eventually exhaled and looked the group over.
"He didn't go into specifics, but asked that we keep constant communication."
"So what you're saying is he doesn't plan to join us on the frontlines, sounds a bit cowardly and not what I'd expect from the dark knight of Gotham," the succubus said.
"Kurumu-chan," Tsukune walked forward, not thrilled with her choice of words.
"It's ok," Nightwing waved off Tsukune's response. "He has a strange way of operating and on numerous instances I don't entirely agree but I've learned to trust his judgement. We've butted heads on different instances, having our differences but he's always got a plan. That much I can guarantee."
"And we're supposed to take your word for it?" Gin questioned.
Aside from the one encounter, he knew next to nothing about the cape crusader.
"I'm not forcing you to do anything, but if it's the key you're after then the best way to obtain it before Fairy Tale is doing exactly as Batman says. Sure, he's not always right but even that's a rarity," Nightwing replied.
"And we're wasting time standing around talking, time to get a move on," Red Robin said.
"That I can agree to," Moka replied.
"Perfect," Red Robin looked to the ledge. "Then I'll lead the way."
Without reluctance he took off and the others followed, their destination less than one mile. They covered the entire distance on foot jumping from rooftop to rooftop and did so promptly. The building was guarded by over fifteen security officials and that didn't include what was inside the building. Each of the six watched the guards closely and took note of the way they moved in a somewhat coordinated fashion.
"So what's the plan?" Gin looked to Red Robin and Nightwing.
"Two groups of three. We'll infiltrate the building from two different points," Nightwing replied.
Red Robin took a knee and in the press of a button over his gauntlet a holographic window appeared. He pressed at another couple buttons and a small diagram appeared.
"What's that?" Tsukune moved in beside him.
"I'm wirelessly disabling the security cameras around the building, these devices are hidden well but they can't hide from my detection system," Red Robin replied.
"Tech savvy huh, great to have one of those around. So we're just gonna attack head on at the conclusion of this system disruption or whatever it is of yours?" Gin asked.
Nightwing shook his head and positioned one foot over the roof's ledge looking outward in the direction where they were set to make their move.
"No, we'll move with stealth and break in undetected. If we cause an uproar the police could get involved and we certainly don't want to deal with law enforcement while trying to obtain an object," Nightwing said.
"A slow approach isn't in our best interest, Fairy Tale has got to be readying themselves to strike as we speak. I say we forget all this sneaky ninja stuff and just go for the direct approach and steam roll those men. I don't care how many of them there are, we're way out of their league," Kurumu moved up beside Nightwing.
"Maybe, but as I said this isn't about showing off our strengths, we need to do this quietly and quickly without detection."
The succubus dropped back with her lower lip extended outward and pouting.
"Not that I disagree, but sneaking around isn't the quickest approach. We'd be giving our competition more time to strike and this mission a failure," Moka added.
"Then we act now," Nightwing stood. "Everyone ready?"
"How do we even know where to search for this key, such a small item won't be easy to come by in a building so large?" Gin glimpsed at both heroes.
"Already ahead of you," Red Robin pressed down over his gauntlet and revealed a 3D holographic model of the building of interest. With the use of one finger he zoomed and focused the view inside the facility, pointing to a specific section. "This is where we need to get, security is the tightest in this section. I suspect booby-traps and there are two steel doors that require passcodes which leads to the basement level and it's said the most valuable of his findings are held there."
"And that's where the key lies?" Tsukune posed.
"Probably, but we won't know for sure until we make it in. Security feed on the exterior of the premises has been disabled and we'll have about thirty to forty minutes before their systems reboot," Red Robin replied.
It went without saying but everyone felt similarly. In just a quick explanation the team of six were off, separating in two groups coordinated by Red Robin and Nightwing. Scouting and figuring the general routine of each guard didn't take long and used that to determine how they'd move in. Moka and Tsukune teamed with Nightwing whilst Kurumu and Gin tagged along with Red Robin. A lone guard walked back and forth next to a railing and he was the first taken out, Red Robin appearing from beneath the ledge and choking the guard out with his staff. Another turned the corner and caught sight of the activity and as he attempted to shout his head was smashed into the side of the brick wall. Gin stood over his body rubbing his hands together. Red Robin leaped down atop another on the lowest level and took him out in two strikes.
"Hey, you there!" One guard crept up on Kurumu from behind and she didn't anticipate the action. He grabbed at the back of her shoulders and forced her around. "Who the hell..."
He looked into her eyes and in that instant he was taken under her charm/allure. Without control his shoulders and fingers twitched and lost hold of his weapon which dropped to the ground. The succubus smirked commanding him to stand guard and assist her. He submitted to her will without question and really had no choice but to do so. Gin picked up on the action from the corner of his eye and exhaled.
"So far so good," the werewolf ran a hand over the side of his head.
Miles from the sight of the storage building something else unfolded. There was one of two locations he believed the Drocgoeu was being kept. Firstly the storage facility and or secondly the building across from him. He had sense eliminated one location and felt certain he'd come to the right place. Standing atop a roof he gazed at the residence across the way, the home of Valdro Zumas. His thoughts continuously returned to the conversation between himself and the pink haired vampire earlier that evening. One group acting as a diversion, another to recover the key and the last serving as a distraction. There was a single moment during their back and forth dialog that told him the storage facility was indeed not where the key was being held.
A variety of security measures were in play and knew he needed to eliminate such obstacles before moving forward. It was also very likely that Valdro hadn't a clue about the importance of the item in his possession, after all he was a simple world traveler that collected things and did so like a sport. Wirelessly disrupting security systems on the outer edges of the premises Batman progressed forward. There were other issues he might face once inside but wouldn't make it his concern until then.
Outside the storage facility another two guards were taken down, one by Nightwind and the other Tsukune. Moka sneaked up on another, forcing him off his feet and knocking him out cold with a kick to the left side of his head.
"Hey!" Another guard witnessed the takedown and came up on her from behind.
A combination strike by Nightwing and Tsukune knocked him out. By then the remaining security persons had become aware of their drop in numbers and were radioing amongst each other. Nightwing stood atop the rooftop, sizing up an individual passing by down below. His window for opportunity closed as a loud roaring sound erupted and bright lights flashed in front of the building. Two vehicles covered in armor pulled up in front of the building and security persons that remained standing fired off at them.
"What the hell's going on?!" Gin peeked around a corner where he'd taken cover.
"Don't know, let's wait it out and see," Red Robin replied.
Gin nodded and remained hidden and Kurumu picked up on what was said even though she was a couple yards away. Unexpectedly the sliding doors to both vehicles shot open and persons dressed in black returned fire at the guards. Two security persons were shot down almost instantly which resulted in security retreating backwards and radioing for backup. The large entrance doors to the storage facility swung open as the called on backup quickly arrived.
"So much for the discrete approach that completely went up in flames," Moka looked to Nightwing who didn't return the gaze.
"What happens now?" Tsukune stepped forward.
"We wait," Nightwing replied.
Both vampires glimpsed at each other with question in their eyes. Tsukune coughed taking a couple steps and leaning down beside Nightwing.
"Wait...wait for what?"
"An opening," Nightwing observed both sides of the shootout and hadn't a clue who the persons were dressed in black. The idea they were linked to Fairy Tale was the first thought that came to mind and if that was true, he knew they needed to act fast. "The entrance is open, but heavily occupied. But with the situation being what it is we c..."
"Can break in through a different entrance," Tsukune finished his sentence. "They're heavily distracted by..."
Tsukune went silent and bit at his tongue and looked to Moka. Nightwing raised an eyebrow perceiving the exchange but had no idea what it meant, but he noticed uneasiness in the eyes of both.
"You looked spooked, what gives?" Nightwing moved in between both.
"That...that aura!" Tsukune felt his throat go dry.
"Mother!" Moka bit at her lower lip.
"Mother, who, what are you talking about?" Nightwing scratched at his hair.
Tsukune nor Moka replied, they instead eyed the two vehicles and it was about that time she emerged from the passenger side of one. The masked hero looked down and spotted a woman that didn't appear dressed for battle, wearing a dark red Victorian styled dress with bow of similar color tied in her long pink hair. Even from up high her beauty was unmistakable and Nightwing wondered just who she was. She spoke, but they couldn't make out what was said but it was clearly directed at the persons inside the vehicles. They stormed out of the vehicles firing off at security officials using a combination of electric and laser guns. From their hidden standpoint Gin and Kurumu took notice of the pink haired vampire and the succubus felt her heart stop.
"No, no it can't..." her voice trailed off.
Gin slightly moved forward taking a closer look for himself and the resemblance between omote/Moka's outer side was definite! The woman standing yards from their position looked to be in clear control of the attack and in a flash the incident of five years passed came back to him like lightening striking!
"Moka's mother, but she's..."
"Dead," Kurumu whispered positioning beside him. "We watched her self-destruct with our own eyes!"
"Yeah, well who the hell is this?! Unless she's got an identical twin sister or clone roaming around, there's no explanation for this," Gin replied with clinched fists.
Red Robin's eyes narrowed staring at both yokai.
"Excuse my knowledge or lack thereof, but what do you mean by Moka's mother?" he moved in beside them and eyed the woman in the dark red dress.
He was missing the significance to the individual if there was one at all. The sight was a difficult one to fathom and Kurumu's thoughts quickly shifted to Moka. By then or if not soon Moka would pick up on what they had and Kurumu could only imagine how she might react, but there was no way the woman standing before them was Moka's mother. Kurumu was content with the idea the look alike was an imposter. At just about that time another familiar face emerged from the opposite vehicle. It was a woman with blonde hair, tan skin and red eyes. Her hair was held back by a tiara with wavy bangs framing her forehead. She was dressed in a white dress with snow white gloves and white boots.
"Kahlua!" Gin and Kurumu said at once.
Red Robin recognized the second woman from the rooftop encounter nights ago, but not the other. The sight of Kahlua further solidified the woman wearing the red bow couldn't have been Moka's mother, there's no way she'd align with Kahlua and Fairy Tale! Kurumu's blood especially boiled over, even more so than Gin. That wasn't all, there was one last individual that stepped out of the vehicle behind Kahlua. He had spikey orange hair, standing at 5'10, fair skin and rose red eyes. He wore a black leather jacket left unzipped, gold chain around his neck, brown pants and black boots. Daggers hung from his belt all around. He displayed a somewhat cocky expression and trailed a hand through his hair with a chuckle. From up high a loud shout caught the attention of everyone, including the three vampires.
"Mother!"
"Moka-san, don't," Tsukune attempted grabbing at her.
His efforts were for nothing as the silver haired vampire leaped off the ledge and landed between the security persons and Akasha. She marched toward the pink haired vampire with clutched fists, never imagining their reunion would come in such a circumstances. The last she'd seen or spoke to Akasha was during her walking in on the elder vampire engaging in sexual activity with Tsukune.
"Mmm...Moka!" Akasha uttered with wide eyes.
The pink haired vampire couldn't believe her eyes and bit back at the sight of her only child. There wasn't much that surprised her, but seeing Moka standing opposite her was mind blowing. What in the world was she doing in Puerto Rico and for what reason? There was no way she could know about the Drocgoeu.
"Let's go," Nightwing said.
"What's that?" Tsukune replied.
"No point in hiding now, Moka is gonna need our help. Moka's mother or whoever she is, clearly wants and is after the key just as we are, so whenever an opportunity presents itself we need to get inside and get to it before them. Batman is counting on us," Nightwing replied.
Tsukune nodded and together both he and Nightwing leaped downward landing behind Moka. Kurumu and CO picked up on the action and it was Red Robin that tightened his fists.
"What are they doing!" he mumbled.
Tsukune darted forward and pulled down Moka as someone shot at her from behind, the bullet missing her head by inches. Nighwing as a result threw down a couple smoke in an attempt to disrupt the vision of both sides. He pressed at the button inside his left ear and spoke promptly.
"Red Robin, this is your chance to move in. Get inside before the smoke clears while the rest of us hold them at bay," Nightwing spoke through his ear.
"Got it," Red Robin looked to Gin and Kurumu. "Time to move in."
Neither expected the action but followed closely behind Red Robin as he shot from behind the corner with his staff in hand. He set the mode inside his lenses to detect and went straight for the door whilst Gin and Kurumu ran through the fog thinking only to aid their friends. The entrance door was cracked enough that Red Robin was able to flip over by standing guards blinded by the smoke and entered. To his dismay a collection of security was on standby within the front room and aimed at him instantly.
"Oh boy!" Red Robin held a firm grip over his staff as he took off running, avoiding the shots fired at him.
As is there was no way he'd get passed them so made a quick decision and took to the ceiling dropping down a few gas grenades as he did so. Out front Nightwing maneuvered around and took down not only security officials but those dressed in black as well. One managed to get a shot off at his left shoulder but the bullet only grazed his shoulder and knocked the attacker out with a single kick. Moka was lied out over the ground on her stomach beside Tsukune and as the smoke slowly cleared away her eyes fell over Akasha who looked back at her. Both equally as surprised to see one another, but the elder vampire even more puzzled. Moka pushed off the ground and wasted no time going after Akasha.
"Mother, what is the meaning of this!" Moka walked with authority in her posture.
"Back off, no one addresses Akasha-sama unless asked directly!" one of the men dressed in black aimed his weapon at the silver haired vampire.
Moka pulled the weapon from his hands and knocked him out cold with an open palm, Akasha grinning as a result.
"Well!"
Both mother and daughter stared at each other, Moka eagerly awaiting a response from her mother. What she received instead was unexpected as Akasha firmly grabbed at her throat.
"Mother..." Moka struggled to speak.
"You shouldn't be here," Akasha glared.
Moka attempted to throw out her right arm but Akasha caught hold of her wrist and twisted her daughter's arm around and kicked her several yards back the other way.
"Moka-san!" Tsukune shot up and ran at Akasha.
"Why, how could you do that to Moka-san?! She's your daughter and she loves you, what's gotten into you," Tsukune looked her in the face with rage in his eyes.
"When I told the two of you to stay out of this, you should have listened. I've asked nicely and now we're in a position where words don't matter," Akasha returned the glare.
"What're you saying? You don't seriously intend on fighting us, we can talk this out. If they're forcing you to..."
Tsukune was silenced by Akasha's elbow connecting with the left side of his jaw and then a knee to the stomach and she finished with a spinning kick that sent him soaring through the air. He collided with Moka who had just began to stand and both tumbled over each other. Kahlua inspected the exchange from afar and smiled, any question of Akasha's loyalty to his majesty was no longer in doubt. Tsukune rubbed a hand over his sore chin and couldn't believe the Akasha standing in front of them was the same woman from days ago.
"Tsukune," Moka murmured pushing up on her knees.
"Yes," he replied, but never taking his eyes off the pink haired vampire across from them.
"Neither of us stands a chance in a battle against mother, not with her centuries of combat experience and strength. But if we work together..."
"Anything is possible," Tsukune smirked looking into Moka's eyes as she did the same back. "There's no one I'd rather have at my side than you Moka-san."
He took her hand into his as she blushed and together they stood, never releasing the hold of each other. By then the smoky atmosphere had cleared and Kurumu caught a glimpse of them holding hands and it was like a stake had been forced into her side. Her heart sunk and felt as though she was being suffocated with no way of breathing.
"Snap out of it!" Gin pulled her aside as shots were fired in their direction.
Nightwing continued his tussle with both sides and used his clubs as a defense. In a single moment white and black armor appeared around the spandex uniform of both Moka and Tsukune mixing their spirit energy with their blood.
"Ready," Tsukune grinned.
"Let's do it," Moka nodded.
They removed their hands from each other running at Akasha and standing on separate sides of the Dark Lord.
"I see neither of you has let up on your mastery of the creation ability, the shinso bloodline is like no other," Akasha stood her ground electing not to get in a fighting stance. "Come at me with all you've got."
Saying those words hurt more than she could have envisioned, but there really was no other choice. Her pupils were looking on and with someone like Kahlua around she couldn't afford to reveal her connection with Tsukune or Moka. She so badly wanted to question what they were doing in the country but any conversation would look suspicious.
"Mother we don't want to do this," Moka stepped back with sincere eyes. "Please talk to us...talk to me."
Akasha bit back feeling like she was backed into a corner. It was clear neither Tsukune nor Moka were thrilled with the idea of fighting against her so she took the initiative and sprung her attack. She first went after Tsukune punching at his face which he blocked but left a portion of his body open and she landed a blow over the left side of his ribs. With quick reflexes she blocked and grabbed hold of Moka's leg that came at her from behind. Akasha spun around entirely and pulled Moka off her feet and tossed her daughter into Tsukune, both vampires tumbling to the ground once more.
"Why don't you pick on someone your own size?!"
Akasha's supernatural senses allowed her to detect and elude the blindside attack, jumping back and looking Nightwing up and down. She hadn't set eyes on him before and his attire was unique but his appearance brought a particular thought into question and just like that she pieced the unknown together. Tsukune and Moka's appearance in Puerto Rico wasn't so random anymore, in fact it was clear what they were after.
"Nightwing, you can't beat her!" Moka pushed off the ground.
"That is yet to be seen," Nightwing looked from Moka back to Akasha. "Dangerously beautiful and quick on your feet, but I've got a few tricks of my own."
He ran forward swinging his clubs at the vampire, which she dodged and eventually grabbed at his wrists, holding his arms in place.
"Ally of Batman?" she asked.
"Nice guess, what gave it away?" Nightwing grinned. "The mask?"
She pulled him closer and disarmed him of his weapons, positioning one leg behind him and forced him off his feet extending her arms with an open palm. She looked to her left just as Moka's foot connected with the side of her face and as she stumbled back her waist was met by Tsukune's knee. Moka stepped back and jumped upward.
"Know your place!"
She threw out her leg but Akasha spun behind Tsukune and pushed him forward and Moka's kick connected with his body instead! The force sent him flying through the air and crashing into the turf yards away.
"Tsukune!" Moka yelled.
With her guard down Moka was knocked off her feet by a backside kick, Akasha rubbing her hands together as she looked to Nightwing. Kurumu had engaged Kahlua in battle while Gin took on Jitoshi Ichiro, neither of the fights one sided. Gin had yet to transform into his werewolf form, not yet finding it necessary. Nightwing had recovered his first club and was in the process of picking up the other when her foot touched down over it. He chuckled nervously and looked up at her.
"Where is he?" Akasha glared.
"Where's who, you gotta be more specific? And boy you sure can move in that dress, I'm surprised it doesn't limit your movement," he pulled at the weapon under her shoe but it wouldn't budge.
"Don't play dumb, Batman!"
"Ooohhh Batman, yeah of course," Nightwing laughed. "Back in Gotham actually, he left you small fry to us. Big bad bat has got more important matters on his agend..."
Nightwing was quieted with a kick to the face that forced him on his back.
"Do you think I'm stupid?! I know he's in the country, now tell me where?" she dropped her foot over his chest and applied pressure.
"Feisty huh, I like that," Nightwing smirked.
She pushed down further resulting in pain throughout his upper chest.
"Ok, ok! Originally the plan was for us to travel together but he instead backed out, but didn't say why. Everything was set in stone until late this evening when he decided to make the change."
Akasha slowly removed her foot from his chest.
"Did you say late this evening?"
"Yes, why?" Nightwing sat up.
The vampire took a step back and presumed somehow some way he must have figured it out. She knew better than to question the way his mind worked and how he was able to deduce things ten times the speed of others. Something else that bothered her was what led to Moka and Tsukune grouping with the masked vigilante, but that was a discussion for another time.
"You're here for the Drocgoeu, yes?"
"Clearly," Nightwing replied.
"And don't you find it strange your X factor would send you in alone to acquire something of such importance?"
Nightwing raised in eyebrow and really wondered just who the woman was that stood over him. She spoke in a way that suggested she had some sort of connection to the cape crusader, but to what degree he hadn't a clue.
"He trusts us," Nightwing spoke with hesitation.
"Uh huh, if only that were the case."
"What're you saying?"
"You must go to him, he'll need you! The item you seek isn't inside the facility behind us. Our group is merely a decoy and Batman somehow foresaw this and knew we'd come here and sent you all as a distraction."
"While he goes after the real thing, yup sounds about right," Nightwing spoke with sarcasm.
He studied her features for a shift in expression but didn't get one.
"And I'm really supposed to believe what comes out of your mouth, you're one of the bad guys," Nightwing retorted.
"I could very easily have killed you, but chose not to. You have a radio link with him don't you? Go ahead and ask," Akasha crossed her arms.
Nightwing dusted himself off and stood.
"I have no reason to believe anything that comes out of your mouth and sparing my life means nothing. People like you wouldn't give up an opportunity to taunt."
The pink haired vampire rolled her eyes realizing she was getting nowhere. Unexpectedly Kurumu's body soared through the air and in their direction, both jumping away as her body crashed into the wall creating a small dent. Forcing her way out of the wall, bat like wings sprouted out of the succubi and her fingernails morphed into sharp blades. She blitzed forward and went right for Kahlua. A security guard carrying a machine gun fired off at Nightwing and with his guard dropped he was unable to dodge or elude. Akasha made a last second decision and jumped in front of him, taking the bullets head on! Nightwing watched with wide eyes as she sprinted forward as more and more bullets ripped through her body and her blood spewing outward. Slapping the weapon out of his grasp she kicked him into a nearby wall and KO'd him dropping to a knee.
"You're hurt!" Nightwing ran up to her side.
"Don't worry about me," Akasha raised a hand stopping him in his tracks. "I'll heal, you need to get going."
In just that one act his suspicion of her intentions slowly vanished. Sparing one's life was one thing but putting her life in jeopardy was another.
"But why...why would you do that?"
"Because I," her voice lowered as she looked to the ground. "It's been a long time since anyone has made me feel the way he does."
Nightwing bit back and wondered if they were still talking about the same person.
"We're talking Batman, right?"
She simply nodded and looked up at him.
"Yes, he's rough on the edges but beneath it all he...Bruce is one of a kind," Akasha said.
Nightwing's eyes broadened at the mention of his real name, the man behind the mask.
"Just who are you, and how do you know that name?!"
"Akasha B..."
"Bloodriver, Akasha Bloodriver. He mentioned the name and you as a possible ally or even enemy but I had no clue your knowledge of him went this deep. Forget anything else, I'll take your word for it and go to his side."
"You must hurry, he won't be able to take them alone," Akasha replied.
Without asking he knew she must have referred to others within Fairy Tale that were given the real task of recovering the key. A short distance away both Moka and Tsukune picked up on what was said and now had a clear understanding of the situation. Nightwing stepped away from the pink haired vampire and pressed down on his ear piece.
XXX
He slowly made his way to the seventh level, which was also the top floor in the building and he'd taken down countless hired security on his way. He turned a corner leading to the main hall and at about that time the communications piece inside his cowl beeped. He took a knee and positioned beside a wall and pressed down.
"Report."
"No more secrets, I know the truth. The Drocgoeu isn't inside the storage facility like you said, it never was and you've known from the start. You've sent us on a scavenger hunt with no prize while you yourself went after the real thing, why?! I thought we were passed all this, we don't need looking out for!" Nightwing voiced his frustration.
He waited for an answer but didn't hear back.
"Typical, should have seen this coming...it's stuff like this why I quit being Robin!"
"Dick..." Batman whispered.
"No! You continuously push us away when it matters and it'll eventually be cost you. I'm on my way now, where are you?"
"Your role is just as important as mine, I need you to hold down the fort on your end. If you're the only one that knows keep it that way, I'll be finished here soon enough."
"Not gonna happen, I'm not your puppet!"
"Nightwing!" Batman shot back, but quietly as he could.
The transmission had been terminated and Batman clinched his fists. Nightwing was certain the dark knight would never give up his location, even if he begged so that left one option.
"Red Robin, do you copy," Nightwing again activated the communications device in his ear.
"Loud and clear."
"I need Batman's location, by using these wired connections you should be able to pin point his exact position. Things have changed, Batman wasn't upfront with us and you need to get out of there ASAP. Technology is your specialty and we need that brain of yours."
"What gives, I'm coming up on the lower level as we speak?" Red Robin replied.
"The Drocgoeu isn't there, Batman has gone after the real thing and merely used us to keep the enemy busy. Turns out this group is merely a decoy, sort of like ourselves," Nightwing replied.
Red Robin wasn't thrilled by the reveal but understood why Batman did what he did, but he didn't share Nightwing's frustration or anger.
"Gotcha, triangulating our positions now and sending a map out. Don't worry about me, I'll make it out of here just fine. I'll catch up when I can."
"Great, knew I could count on you," he smiled.
Looking to the nearest building Nightwing pulled out a grapple gun and used it to pull himself upward. Once there he pressed down on the hidden panel beneath his gauntlet and the map had already been forwarded.
"We're coming with you."
A voice from behind startled him and he spun around, settling as it was only Tsukune and Moka.
"We heard everything, and you'll need our strength. The others can take care of themselves and with my mother here that further solidifies their safety," Moka said.
She now knew why Akasha wouldn't engage in conversation with either she or Tsukune, her undercover like position might get compromised.
"Alright, but we've got a lot of ground to cover so let's get moving."
Nightwing led the way and they followed close behind. Inside the residence, Batman crept along and stopped at the sound of a loud bang followed by screams and switched his lenses over to detect mode. Up ahead and behind the wall of where he intended to venture, it appeared as though someone or rather persons had beat him to the punch. Another loud bang echoed, the result of an explosive and then a thump. He quickly picked up the pace with stealth becoming second nature. In a quick heave Batman kicked open the door and on the ground beside a king-size bed was a woman atop a man and her fangs buried into his neck. On the other side of the room one wall had been blown to bits and a woman emerged from the area holding a small item, an item he had grown familiar with. Ancient drawings of the Drocgoeus were included in the files uploaded and she undoubtedly held one.
"Sasha, time to go we've got what we came for," Lailay said.
The grounded vampire ripped open the throat of the victim beneath her, his blood all around her mouth, neck and even chest. She pushed up off him and that's when both looked to the entry door, Sasha's heart jumping somewhat.
"Batman!" Sasha looked to Lailay. "Since when did he get here?!"
"Just now, obviously," the vampire in command cracked her knuckles, keying in on the dark knight. "You're too late Batman, the Drocgoeu is ours."
In one quick maneuver he tossed a batarang with perfect aim and the key dislodged from her grasp! The vampire hissed as he dashed forward leaping and catching it through midair. Lailay threw out her arm at him but a smoke grenade disturbed her vision and the entire room quickly filled with smoke, both vampires coughing and gasping for air.
"Sir, sir is everything alright!?"
A handful of security people pushed through the bedroom door but were met by a blinding cloud, and then the sound of a glass window shattering. Batman dove downward with the Drocgoeu in one hand and a small device in his other. A motor cycle appeared from down the street via remote control, Batman gliding and landing atop it. He stepped on the gas and took off at full speed and from up high the two vampires leaped out of the window from the seventh floor and created a small crater as they touched down over the rocky surface.
"After him, we can't lose the Drocgoeu!" Lailay shouted.
"I know," Sasha wiped away extra blood.
Both were quick on their feet but neither had the speed to keep up and could only watch as he disappeared around a corner. Lailay nor Sasha were aware they were being observed from the very beginning and with the prize out of their hands another made her move.
"Mister Zumas!" One guard dropped to a knee beside the bed.
By then most the smoke vanished and everyone could see clearly.
"Good heavens, someone call an ambulance! He's bleeding out!"
"There's no way he'll make it," Another added.
"We've got something over here," one pointed to the massive hole in the wall. "Someone broke into his safe, but can't tell what was taken!"
"Forget that, Valdro needs medical attention and fast!"
The authorities were contacted right away and by then Batman had managed several blocks between himself and the residence. Just as he attempted to report in something swooped downward from the skies and in the middle of the street, the black cycle skidding to a stop. Batman stared into the eyes of the one opposite him as she did the same back. Her skin was pale and she had red eyes with slits, and black hair tied in pigtails. Her attire was of a traditional Chinese cheongsam in the color of black with knee high combat boots.
"Finally I come face to face with the dark knight of legend," she grinned.
He looked the individual over more closely and recognized her from research, photos uploaded to the bat computer.
"Akua Shuzen," Batman glared.
"Aiya, you know who I am, I'm flattered. That should also mean you know a direct confrontation with me will result in death."
"Yes...yours, but lucky for you I've got what I came for."
He wasn't one to crack jokes but couldn't pass up the opportunity. Stepping on the gas he attempted bypassing her but the vampire leaped and tackled him off the bike and into the side of a dumpster and the cycle crashing into a light post. He forced her off of him and stood as she did the same. He connected the key to his utility belt using a piece of wire. In a quick burst she lashed out at him, Batman front flipping over her and putting distance between them. Over his left shoulder he spotted a fire hydrant and with a small gadget in hand tossed it in that direction. Akua paid the action no attention, but nevertheless the item connected with its target. In just that one instant of taking his eyes off her, Akua was in his face and just inches away. Batman threw out his cape across her face, the action distracting as he flipped over her.
Not a moment after touching down he threw out three batarangs which she dodged and ran at him once more. Her speed, elusiveness and strength were beyond his own and knew he couldn't make any mistakes. Racing within a foot of him, he threw down a smoke bomb disrupting her vision as he took off again. Two batarangs were thrown one of which she dodged and the other she caught. Another batarang was thrown as the fog cleared and pierced into her left shoulder, the vampire laughing aloud.
"Childs play! Do you really think such toys can harm me?"
"Yes."
At just about that time both projectiles blew and water exploded over Akua's right hand and left shoulder. She yelped in pain as she stumbled forward, her breathing becoming a lot heavier.
"Planning ahead is the key to success and I anticipated running into those of your kind. Updating my weapons accordingly was a no brainer. Judging by how the purity of water affects your body that hand of yours, specifically your fingers will be experiencing extreme tightness and same goes for the shoulder in addition to decreased speed and range of motion," Batman voiced.
Akua tried moving her fingers and the shoulder alike and it was just as he said, her eyes expanding.
"Your reputation of preparedness for unforeseen obstacles out of your control stands true, but you'll need more than a little water to put me down," Akua hissed running at him.
Batman did the same but as he came within a foot of her, he again flipped over her and as he did dropped down two explosives over her shoulder which exploded instantly. As with the first projectiles water blew up over her shoulders and she bit back holding in the pain.
"Curse you, why do you run?! Clearly I heard wrong about your mastery of over one hundred different fighting styles. It's said you're one of the greatest martial artists in the world."
"You heard right, but you've got something that I have no answer for. Speed, strength and agility are aspects I've overcame against opponents in the past, which is also what you possess but that isn't the issue," Batman said.
"Humor me," Akua grimaced at the pain in her shoulders.
"Youjutsu, Jigen-Tou...the ability to become intangible. The dimensional ability allows you to cut through anything, no matter the mass or size and your opponent unable to physical harm or touch you when the technique is active. Only a fool would engage someone with the ability in close combat unless he or she possess Muei-Tou, the c..."
"The only defense against Jigen-Tou," Akua finished.
The cape crusader simply nodded.
"You're very intellectual, it's a pity you intend to stand in our way. But all it will take is one snip and your throat is cut open, or perhaps I take off your head completely."
"Give it your best shot," Batman stepped back.
Akua ignored the pain in her shoulders and went after him again, only to have her vision again disrupted by a cloud of smoke.
"Never imagined the Batman would be a coward!"
"Coward, no. I'm a master strategist and you played right into my hand," Batman spoke as the smoke cleared and they looked at each other. "You should be more aware of your surroundings."
"Surroundings?" Akua said with disordered eyes.
The vampire moved to her left bumping into a solid object, which happened to be a fire hydrant. In the press of a button the hydrant was blown sky high and heaps of water shot outward into Akua's face and entire body, forcing her off her feet and to the ground!
"You underestimated me, had you used Jigen-Tou from the beginning I would have been at a heavy disadvantage. As is you're likely incapable of using the ability, especially with the amount of water you were exposed to. This victory is mine."
Akua's vision was blurry and as she attempted to stand, she fell forward on her knees coughing and spitting blood.
"Damn you! You plan to kill me, don't you?"
"No, you're defenseless and that's not what I'm about."
Batman looked upward and realized the victory lap would have to wait, seeing as both Sasha and Lailay leaped downward from a nearby roof.
"Akua-sama," Sasha ran to her side as Batman stepped back further. "What're you doing in the human world, we were never informed of reinforcements?"
Akua struggled to look up, eying the dark knight.
"Be careful."
"What?" Sasha questioned.
"He's dangerous," Akua replied, her gaze on Batman. "He's got the key."
"We know," Lailay cracked her knuckles taking a step forward.
Both she and Sasha glimpsed at one another and charged him together. He blocked the fist of Sasha and barely dodged Lailay that clawed away at his belt leaving behind a mark. Kicking at her side, Batman lifted Sasha over his shoulder and tossed her into Lailay. Both tumbled to the ground on impact and were quickly back on their feet, but oddly Lailay backed off and took a knee beside Akua who was still in extreme pain. Lailay uncovered what looked to be a small communications device. Sasha on the other hand ran at Batman, but a kick from above sent her flying in the opposite direction.
"Know your place!"
Touching down in front of Batman was the silver haired vampire, with streaks of pink at the ends. He glimpsed upward as Nightwing and Tsukune quickly followed.
"What did we miss?" Nightwing smirked.
Sasha pushed up from the concrete pavement, hissing as her eyes deadlocked with Moka's several yards away.
"Nee-san!" Moka looked down at Akua.
"Moka," Akua said weakly. "It's a shame we always seem to be on opposite sides and I hate we've reconciled like this."
"The numbers are in our favor and we have the Drocgoeu, you're done," Batman claimed.
"You sure about that," Lailay grinned waving a familiar object in front of his face.
Batman's eyes widened and looked down at his belt, seeing the wire had been split and the Drocgoeu gone! A thunderous sound in the form of a helicopter appeared overhead and missiles were fired at Batman and CO. They had no choice but to back off and avoid the projectiles. A lengthy latter was lowered and Kuyo of Fairy Tale was visible through the open door of the copter, an unmistakable grin on his face. Akua mustered all the strength she could and grabbed at the latter and climbed upward followed by Sasha and Lailay.
"They're getting away, we have to do something!" Nightwing yelled.
"You're right," Tsukune replied.
With no fear Tsukune exposed himself from behind a parked vehicle and Batman followed his lead. Bullets and other projectiles were fired in their direction, but each did an exceptional job dodging. Batman shot at the latter and wiring from the grapple gun pulled him upward. Tsukune leaped and grabbed hold of Batman's hand and both held firmly, already twenty feet off the ground. Just as Batman reeled them in, Kuyo uncovered a small weapon and shot at the wiring which melted the cable and the wire snapping! Both Batman and Tsukune free fell downward and then a massive vortex appeared in the sky.
"What is that?!" Moka had a bad feeling.
"Looks like a portal, these guys clearly have access to boom tubes," Nightwing clinched his fists.
Just as Tsukune and Batman plummeted to the ground the helicopter passed through the vortex and the portal closed.
"They escaped!" Nightwing marched forward. "This is your fault!"
He approached both Tsukune and Batman as they stood.
"Sending us on some wild goose chase just costed us the key, had we worked together this wouldn't have happened!"
"One key of eight," Batman dusted himself off. "There are still seven to go and all it'll take is stealing one and their plans are halted. If you're looking for an apology, that isn't happening. I had everything under control, it was nothing more than a lucky break on their end."
"Lucky break huh, yeah sure, whatever helps you sleep at night!"
"What's done is done," Moka came in between them. "I do agree with Nightwing in the sense I don't like having my chain pulled around. You could have been upfront with us from the beginning and if you lead me on like this ever again I'm done, through! Are we clear?" Moka snapped.
She glared into his eyes, but he was seemingly unfazed.
"I'll stop Fairy Tale with or without your assist," Batman faced the opposite direction. "I call the shots and if you don't like it, go ahead and leave, quit."
"Your way or the highroad," Nightwing rolled his eyes. "We've been down this road before, far too many times. This is a reminder why I so love the whole solo gig."
"Nightwing, Moka-san, stop," Tsukune moved forward taking a deep breath. "They barely got away and I for one believe it is gonna take the efforts of us all to defeat them. We need Batman Moka-san, his resources and knowledge will keep us on pace with Fairy Tale and you need us Batman. You don't know Yoshii Kiria like we do."
A period of silence followed and Nightwing let out a sigh.
"I'll be fine after a good night's rest. My problem isn't that we were playing the role of decoys, but that you lied to us. No more secrets and lies, long as we've got that off the table I'm game moving forward," Nightwing said.
"No more secrets," Batman faced the three. "You have my word."
"Good, then what happens now?" Moka asked.
"We return to Gotham," Batman replied.
"I'm curious, what led to Akua's state...was it you that damaged her so badly?" Moka asked.
"Doesn't matter, they have the Drocgoeu and we're back to square one," Batman pressed down on the side of his cowl. "Red Robin, report in."
"Made it out just fine but the enemies escaped. Gin, Kurumu and I hightailed just before the police arrived. How're things, did you get the key?"
Batman paused for a moment and exhaled.
"Negative, the mission was a fail. We're going home."
To Be Continued
- 20
- 21
- 22
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Seal of Darkness