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Clash of Realms	By : RaphaelTMNT Category: -Misc Anime > Crossovers Views: 3294 -:- 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
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Clash of Realms
CHP56: Wolf in the Loop

"Hhhhhmmm, ahhhh!" Morrigan gasped suddenly with what she believed to be tears in her green emerald eyes as she laid over her soft mattress and cherry red covering her fair-skin slender yet curvaceous figure with her long green hair loose around her face and some sticking to her beautiful but damp face.
What was this, why was she feeling this way? That was only the initial thought, but then it all came back to her.
"A….Eh….?"
The succubus couldn't finish her sentence as her heart was pounding harder as if she ran an entire marathon and forced to fight solo with dozens of S class monsters.
"Oh….So you're finally awake?"
A smooth rich baritone voice belonging to one of her servants sat in a far corner of the room and reading over something very much similar to a tabloid.
His name was Gasmer, an extremely tall man ruggedly yet somewhat elegant handsome well-built in his mid-twenties to early thirties very tall and with strong toned arms, broad shoulder, toned six-pack abs and long powerful-looking legs. But of course that was only in his human form which was presently shown on the outside. In truth he was a merman, of a noble family of the seas. It was four years back that he started working under the succubus queen.
Gasmer's facial features were both jagged in a good-looking warrior way and refined like a grand enigmatic powerful monarch. With his facial features nearly perfect and angular—high strong cheekbones, a strong chiseled jawline covered with smooth yet thick shadow, perfect eyebrows, a straight nose and full lips filled with perfect dentition white and straight that could change on a whim.
He was wearing a brown tunic jacket zipped up but left open just above his abdomen showing his strong toned chest.
"Damn, who do you think you are sleeping soundly till midday like that?! You had some of your staff worried, let alone you returning to the palace and not departing to the world of men like you have been. What's up?"
"None yah," she rolled over her side and yawned as she dazedly looked at him who didn't look the slightest bit amused.
"What a screw up…" she muttered absently to herself.
"Screw up?" Gasmer said, perplexed. "How so, my lady?"
His expression was somewhat animated, as he anxiously awaited to hear what she had to say. Truthfully though, it was really the last thing she wanted to talk about as she rolled over on her side and facing the opposite direction to him.
She heard him mumbling with her superior hearing saying something like, "Don't leave me hanging, I want all details."
"Anyhow, seeing as you're temporary back in the kingdom for however long, there's some things you should know," he coughed and clearing his throat before carrying on.
And as he went on and on, the succubus merely watched his lips move but didn't really make out much of what he said. For how long she listened, was an uncertainty but did reach a point where she'd simply heard enough.
"Nn….stop talking and let me think for a moment!" Morrigan jeered as she pressed two finger to her temple in moment of silence.
Even too that moment she felt like she was still half asleep. But that aside, Gasmer was unlike much of her other guardsmen and women. Few had even been inside her quarters, let alone doing it as casually as he did. And with a lengthy yawn and resting her head over the pillow, she looked up at him tiredly as memories of a few years past came back to her. It was a stormy night and most the other security was either out on patrol or enjoying the capital's Bash event, over on the east wing while she had been cooped up in her quarters. That was until Gasmer came knocking. She wanted to be left alone, so far behind in her personal work but he was persistent and was having none of it. He used some smooth line, one she couldn't recall. But it was just enough to get her to open the door, where they had a small conversation; him standing out in the hall and the queen in her doorway.
She didn't recall how, but somehow some way she invited him in where they had a few drinks and what happened from there, happened. From then they slept together at least a few times but she called it off after about a month. With the way things were it was just never going to fly, with him being one of her servants in the level of professionalism that came with that position. There were certain boundaries that just couldn't be crossed, even for someone like her. Not only that, others around the palace could have got suspicious and talking and gossip was the last thing she wanted on her hands. He was just one of a handful of her flings in the past seven years. Nothing serious, just someone here and someone there to satisfy her desires.
She was a simple woman that didn't need a whole lot, or want much for that matter. If she could have it her way, the succubus would live a life of adventure and journey the many realms and worlds outside of her own. Material items of great fortune, she would often times collect and above all else she loved to look her best; diving into different cultures and fashions. The life of a noble and ruling over an entire realm wasn't exactly her dream life, but the responsibility passed down onto her. Her very father entrusted the future of Makai in her hands, and for that reason alone she would see to it that the realm flourished.
"Madam, are you still with me? You seem to have dozed off," Gasmer said.
"My dear, must you talk so much?" the succubus yawned.
Morrigan stretched as she removed blankets off her body and stepped over the carpet.
"I'll be out momentarily. Be a dear and await me elsewhere, I've got some cleaning up to do, okay."
In a quick nod of his head, he stood and looked to the door.
"As you wish, your Grace."
Gasmer bowed his head before taking off. And once he was out of sight she stripped down, one piece of clothing falling to the ground after another with each step taken. Readying herself a hot bath she lowered her body and inward and enjoyed the solitude for the next thirty minutes. This gave her ample time think and reflect, as she had been for the past twenty four hours. What was next for her? She'd never been in such a place where she had so little answers. Regardless of her own personal problems, the world didn't stop and she would have to keep living; carrying on her duties. And there was still a problem in front of her, in front of them all.
That was really all that mattered, at least for the time being. Everything else was insignificant and could be attended to later. Abolishing all thoughts which stressed her, Morrigan took the final few minutes of her bath to truly relax. And it was just one level down inside one of the many libraries where a certain someone sat. She was with a book in hand, giggling and laughing as she read through. Turning through one page after another, anxious to see where the story would progress next.
"Whatcha reading?!"
She was startled by the loud energetic voice of a child, losing hold of the book.
"Very sorry, I didn't mean to," the child moved up close to the table and recovered the book off the ground. "Here you go. Ah mom...or nanny, you didn't lose your spot, did you?"
The pink haired succubi gladly accepted the reading material, but with a glower over the kid.
"For the hundredth time, don't call me Mom, mama, nanny or mother...I am neither, or. Lilith is fine."
"But why? Mom said both you and her are the same person, like exactly the same. Don't know if I buying into it, you don't look nor sound anything like her... I don't get this stuff," Audrey said.
"Don't try to, it'll only hurt your head, kiddo. I am my own soul, even if at the core we are the same being. An extension of her power if you will, stuff you really don't need to concern yourself with. It can be difficult for a little mind to comprehend," Lilith said.
With single finger, Audrey twirled a strand of hair. A grumble escaped from her, falling to her knees and just off to the side of Lilith.
"Can you at least tell me more about it? Mom told me next to nothing and that's unfair."
"Someday you will know everything, when she decides. Be patient."
"Stupid and lame..." Audrey whined with her arms crossed.
Lilith looked her way for only a little while longer, before she again focused on the novel. And it was only a little way in before she was interrupted.
"Let me have a read, auntie Lilith? Can I read too?"
Lilith's mouth plunged, watching the child position herself atop the table and her chin just over the top of the page; her face just inches from Lilith.
"Don't you have studies? Morrigan wouldn't be very happy to know you are putting them aside."
"No," Audrey rolled over the table and on her side. "Not now. Today she's going to be a whole lot different, yep uh-huh. Today I get to go see my dad. And guess what, he's the Batman! Isn't that's so out of this world?! One day I'll be part of the Justice League too! Come to think of it, what would my superhero name even be? Hhhhmmm, it would have to be something so radical and spectacular. Oooohhhhh auntie, you should help me pick one!"
Lilith's left brow batted, as she was becoming somewhat annoyed but eased herself and not trying to show it.
"That's for you to decide," she put on a forged smile while trying to sound interested. "A heroine should always choose her title, and not leave it up to someone else to decide."
Audrey thought about it for a little while, with her legs dangling up behind her.
"True, you right. Hhhhmmm I'll have to think long and hard."
Then came the sounds of footsteps from down the hall and before long the door rocking open. Audrey again rolled over looking towards the door, and sitting up energetically.
"Audrey!" Morrigan called out to her.
The queen of the realm was dressed in a black and red robe, her hair tied in long pigtails and trooping across the carpet as she pulled Audrey off the table.
"What do you think you're doing, young lady?! Since when has it been okay to sit over a table like that? Very unladylike. You've become rather complacent in my multitude of absences. That is going to change."
"I'm sorry, but please let go. That hurts!" Audrey pulled and tugged at her left wrist, which Morrigan had a hold of.
The succubus queen released her hold of the child, and Audrey rubbing at the sore area.
"When do we get to go see Dad and everybody? Are we going now?!" she said excitedly.
"Not yet, I've got some adult stuff to take care of first. Namely the council meeting and having a word with Gleanda and her involvement in your circus act of a getaway," Morrigan responded.
"Miss Gleanda? Do you mean the witch lady? Please don't punish her mom, it was my fault. She only did what I asked," Audrey clasped her hands together.
"That isn't your choice, you are in no position of power and never were. You abused your position to get what you wanted and have cost me heartache and put her in hot water. Think before you act, I've told you this many times, Audrey. Otherwise you will get yourself killed and I will not allow that to happen."
Audrey's head was lowered and her eyes over the ground, feeling the full force of the scolding.
"I know..."
Morrigan then looked to Lilith who was tied up in her book.
"Keep an eye on her for the next couple hours, okay."
"Yeah, sure," Lilith flipped through another page as Morrigan took to the exit.
But then her eyes just as quickly shot up and she slammed the book shut.
"A couple hours?! Wait?!"
"She can take care of herself, and doesn't really need watching over. But after her latest antics, I want capable eyes on her for the time being. Just make sure she doesn't leave the premises."
"Mom that isn't fair, I told you I would never do it again!" Audrey snapped.
"You're a child," Morrigan halfway looked back at her. "You really expect me to take your word, after what you've been up to. You're too smart and ambitious for your own good. It's like looking in the mirror. I was exactly as you at that age."
Those were Morrigan's last words before she stepped out.
"You suck mom!" Audrey shouted.
The door then cracked open and Morrigan re-emerging.
"Excuse me dear, did you have something to say?"
"No momma," Audrey shook her head violently. "I love you bunches."
"That's what I thought," Morrigan smiled at her before taking off once more.
Audrey immediately dropped over her bottom and sitting with her legs crossed; pouting.
"How could she... I'm not a little baby."
"You're no older than six or seven?" Lilith chimed in. "You're an adolescent. A baby. Especially in terms of a succu..."
"Can it, auntie!" Audrey growled.
XXX
Already far ahead was her travel companion as they'd been separated from one another. The journey into the dark realm between the world of living and dead had proven to be quite the doozy, but they were without a choice. An ancient relic skull known as the Heirloom of Healing was essential if they would be able to continue with their task. They'd been walking along and kept quiet, trying to keep their presence undetected but the creatures and spirits of the plain came onto them in a matter of minutes and just like that the witch lost sight of Zatanna. The attack came without warning and from every which direction they looked, but the destination was clear and undoubtedly where Zatanna headed. The Woash Willow chateau! A mansion with the height of a skyscraper. And so with that in mind, eluding and fighting off the spirits, that's exactly where Yukari Sendo headed.
A peace of the mountain that loomed above the foothills where she ran was broken by a rumble that shook the land so hard that at first she wondered if it was a volcanic eruption! Her very body trembled at just the thought of it. The witch hadn't thought this was a volcano, though even she couldn't be completely certain. The rumbling continued as she picked up the pace and did so in quick strides.
The noise gave her just enough warning to leap into the air, right before a massive mudslide hit. Yukari couldn't understand what had caused it, as there hadn't been rain in the area. But then again this was a completely different realm and perhaps what applied to the world of the living didn't apply here. That's at least what she told herself. She didn't have time to really think about it and nor did she have much time to pull out her wand. The remains of a massive tree, propelled into the air by the seething mass of debris, grazing her! Its jagged broken branches scraping painfully against her side. She was sent bowling and lost hold of her wand in the process as she had pulled it out in a split second.
Downward. Right into the earthen whirl, it sucked her under. But somehow someway she managed to reclaim her wand and applied a tight grip. Desperate, she managed to cast the only spell she could think of strong enough to shield her. But by the time she got it off debris and mud were trapped inside with her, spiraling due to the incantation, and Yukari couldn't break through the tumble of rock and mud beyond her shield. All the witch could do was fight to survive. Keeping the concentration for the spell wasn't easy, the mud blinding and deafening her, coating her skin and every gap, making it nearly impossible to even breathe, but she knew without it, she'd be crushed by the sheer force of the moving earth. Where was Zatanna? Now would be the perfect time for her to show!
As she was swept along, Yukari lost all sense of direction, the force of the slide buffeting her. Time became meaningless as mud coated her throat, leaving her desperately rasping for breath even as each wheeze brought in more. She could sense larger pieces of debris smashing against the shield, threatening to overwhelm it, and the magical cost of the spell was a fast drain on her reserves. Why wasn't she stronger?!
The witch wasn't sure she could hold out, barely maintaining enough concentration; one bad hit could leave her crushed by a boulder, buried permanently in a grave no one would ever find. The thought was terrifying, and she fought against panic.
She should never have come along. Zatara warned her of how hectic and dangerous it might be, but of course she just laughed it off. How stupid was that?! Just as she thought she might lose the battle to keep the spell going, the movement of the earth surrounding her changed, slowly grinding down to an oozing, shuddering halt, leaving her trapped beneath the surface.
Her only chance of getting out was castinganother spell to propel her out of position, but only if she could determine which way was up. A wrong guess would place her deeper in the abyss, and with her strength fading and magical capacity pressed to the limit, she wouldn't get a second one.
Gathering her wits, Yukari concentrated and forcing the magic shieldsurrounding her to push outward, hoping it would be enough. After an agonizing stretch of seconds, a hint of fresh air reached her… wafting from her feet. She let the spell dissolve and quickly cast another in the split second before the muck could completely engulf her, and propelled herself out and away from the mudslide blindly, unable to wipe the mud from her eyes with coated hands. She was fortunate not to hit anything. It took time before she found dry land, checking whether the earth held beneath her.
The spell sputtered out, her magic burned out, and all she could do was collapse, coughing up mud, to her hands and knees. The taste of earth was joined with the taste of her own blood. What little strength she had left, she looked up to see a class of massive creatures flying down over her. The same ones that attacked both she and Zatanna in the forest. This was it, she was going to die here. Eaten alive. A wave of pain swept her into unconsciousness as her body fell forward.
XXX
Sitting within the living-room, she leaned with her back against the soft material of the sofa while she waited. She however wasn't the only one to stop by, as one of her best soldiers in addition to Sasha had also made the trip. The Dark Lord had sort of dozed off before she felt a tug at her side and looking up at her with the most anxious eyes was Sasha.
"I wanna know, momma. What's the surprise, please tell me. I dunno want to wait anymore!"
Sasha partially jumped up and down, while both Akasha and Selene smiled.
"Soon," the Dark Lord massaged a hand over her shoulder. "You won't have to wait for much longer."
"Come on, gimmie a hint…"
Sasha dropped down over her knees and her chin resting in the lap of Akasha with eyes that begged. But it was all for nothing; Akasha not remotely giving in and looking away from her. Groaning and griping she moved over and off to the side, situating with her back against the sofa.
"K, me wait then," she stretched her arms with her hands over her knees.
And not long after that Alfred returned from a corner of the room and carrying a tray. He was with refreshments and setting it down over the table in front of them.
"Sorry for the delay, my apologies. A little trouble with one of Wayne Enterprises stockholders. An extended phone conversation but I can assure you everything is fine. Two creams, one shot of honey and brown sugar. Just as you requested, Miss Bloodriver."
The Dark Lord smiled up at him and was very appreciative of everything that he did. Not just the here and now, but Sasha had nothing but good things to say about this man. Whenever Bruce wasn't around, the butler was there to look after and take care of her needs.
"Thank you Alfred," Akasha said, kindly taking the flask into her hand.
In just one sip her cheeks illuminated, tasting even better than she projected. These were are the sorts of moments that couldn't be taken for granted, and chiefly should be held onto. When things got tough, and time passed on and on; memories were the only things she could hold onto. Very few could understand that the same way she did; living for so long. She'd seen the world as one thing, only to change over and over again. With each era and decade, something fresh, something new. For better or worse, that's the way it was. And even now that was no different. In even just the past twenty years, there had been drastic changes to what was considered normal in the world. Selene had also taken a sip of the iced coffee provided over the tray. One lemon and a few shots of sweetener.
"Perfect, it couldn't taste any better. Thank you," the purple haired vampire, bowed her head at Alfred.
"You're very welcome, if there is anything else I can get you... anything at all, don't hesitate to ask. Now if you'll excuse me, there are few things I must attend to. Make yourselves right at home."
"Do what you need to, the last thing we want is to be a vexation," Akasha responded.
And without further ado, Alfred was on his way and out of the room. Taking yet another drink of what was inside her glass, a moment of realization hit Selene like a thunderbolt. Reaching into her shirt, she uncovered a small device. Just about two times the size of her hand.
"Akasha-sama, I've been meaning to bring this to your attention. Please do have a look, Milady."
Feeling rather rambunctious, Sasha jumped to her feet and took off to who knows where; neither of which bothering to go after her. When the necessary time came, finding her wouldn't be an issue.
"What is it?" Akasha asked simply.
"Nothing of real importance, but very interesting regardless and you should really have a look."
Selene activated the small device, which displayed a sizable hologram screen. Displayed were a series of names, letters, numbers and characters, some of which she couldn't even make out.
"What am I looking at?" the Dark Lord asked with a curious expression.
"Research, not executed principally by myself. But I had some help, from someone you know very well. Only a couple days it took her, and this is only a small portion of it. No one understands the landscape better than she."
Repositioning herself, Akasha turned and looked up at Selene who quickly sat beside her Queen.
"Who do you speak of? I don't understand, for what reason?"
"Curiosity struck after Wayne's scuffle with Maximoff. Surely you've talked to him about that night and how he tried to fight him? Yes. No. Maybe? Doesn't matter. Fact of the matter is Batman attacked him in ways that would have been effective against a vampire of our type, but not against Demitri."
Before speaking another word, the purple haired medic slowed herself and thought long about how to voice her thoughts. There was a lot going on behind the scenes, much of which she kept secret to her dissatisfaction. But as promised certain details were to be kept secret, and she would stand by her word. She found herself at a crossroad, one in which between her master and secrecy. It wasn't ideal, but spilling the beans of certain recent events would only further complicate and worsen their situation. The follow-up and more or less rematch between the dark knight and vampire powerhouse of Makai.
"Are you okay?" Akasha waved a hand out in front of her face. "You just froze."
"Sorry," Selene coughed, recollecting herself. "Rules, regulations, the way they govern, plantations, structures, ways of living. A lot of that is touched on, well what Morrigan handed me in a small portion."
Hearing that name come out of her mouth, Akasha slightly jumped.
"Did you just say, Morrigan? You've been talking with her b..."
"It isn't like what you might think, milady. My summoning of her was merely to gain Intel. Wayne inquired the same of her, but for what reason and his purposes are unknown."
"When?"
"Over lunch. We talked about other stuff as well, unimportant little things. I see why you've bonded with her, she's very congenial."
"Gee, I thought she would have brought this up to me, hhhhmmm... But then again this is Morrigan. She doesn't talk, unless asked Hehe," Akasha giggled with her eyes thin. "Okay please tell me more, what did she pass on?"
"Essentially what I was in search for more or less. It has actually been an interesting couple of hours, going through all the data. And I'm probably only one third of a way in. So much more to go, it's almost off-putting but also exciting. And most interestingly, or at least for me is the bits and portions which touched on medicines in respects to the different monster species. Not just vampires Akasha-sama, but other classes from their very biology are very different to those that walk the lands of the Yokai Realm."
"Hhhhhmm, sounds very intriguing."
The Dark Lord leaned over slightly; her right shoulder pressed against the sofa.
"Where even to start," Selene fell back excitable and her eyes over the ceiling. "To put it in perspective, and this primarily applies to A class and above. Beings of the Yokai Realm, considered S-class such as ourselves when pit against and compared to those of Makai, well..."
"Well, what? Tell me..." Akasha became anxious.
"Myself in comparison to those of Makai, a powerful vampire warrior... would merely be considered an upper level of B Class. Given your abilities and monstrous strength milady, you alone of any living vampire could pass for A class. But that's just the thing, the gap between an A class monster and S in ability and power is so much more substantial in Makai, than it is in the Yokai Realm."
Taking some moments to take in what was said, Akasha raise herself lazy position.
"That can't be right, you must have misinterpreted what you read. Such things can't truly be measured, without physical proof. Allied worlds, but isolate ourselves and live separately," Akasha responded.
And that was just it, Selene knew differently and had seen the evidence first-hand. Since the destruction of Alucard and the return of the vampire queen, Selene without a doubt believed there would never be another vampire to surpass the Dark Lord in raw power and strength. But on that one night, the dark knight's wealth of power unleashed. She witnessed, not one, but two on an entirely different playing field. And there was no telling how much power Maximoff had at his disposal. In addition to that, Jedah Dohma. Only subtle details she heard of the incident; but if he was able to defeat Supergirl, a Kryptonian. That in itself was a feat, far above anything of the monster world.
"Yes," the purple haired vampire nodded. "But do keep in mind and take into account the League. The most powerful of them are unlike anything our realm or the world of man have ever witnessed. Food for thought. You're probably right, however. "
She decided just to go along with her master, and someone she looked up to like a big sister or even a mother figure. Perhaps a little bit of both. Right around then came a ring of the doorbell, as both vampires looked to the front-door.
"Has she finally come," Akasha took a stand from the sofa. "Let's hope so."
The Dark Lord was halfway to the door when Alfred reappeared.
"Don't bother yourself. You're guests, relax."
With that, Alfred answered the door with a very friendly leer.
"Miss Aensland, good to see you," he tilted his head.
But then looked down to the child beside her, who was dressed casually in a dark purple skirt, white T-shirt and her hair tied in two long ponytails.
"Ah ha. And you must be the young, beautiful and pleasant Audrey. How do you do?"
She looked into the eyes of Pennyworth and then over at her mother, before back at him.
"Pleasant? How would you know if you..."
"Audrey..." Morrigan inaudibly rumbled.
"Hehe, sorry. Thank you, Mister Alfred," she bowed her head politely.
"Better," Morrigan smiled down over her.
"You're very welcome. And forever long you're here, you may treat this place as a second home. Anything you wish to have, I'll do my best to provide. But I must warn you, things can get a little bit edgy around here," Alfred informed.
"You needn't try and spoil her," Morrigan halfway stepped through the door and taking Audrey's hand. "She gets enough of that back home."
Alfred closed the door behind them as they headed straight for the living-room and Akasha already on her feet. With a hand near her mouth, the Dark Lord goggled over the young child seeing how much she resembled her mother. But she'd also inherited much from her father. It was one thing to be told, and an entirely other to see with her own two eyes.
"Oh my," the pink haired vampire, stepped from around the couch. "Aren't you just adorable? Oh Morrigan, she looks so much like you!"
Akasha then turned her head the other way and called out to someone.
"Sasha oh Sasha, there's someone here that you must meet!" Akasha called out.
Alfred couldn't help but stare at the girl, knowing she was a biological child of a man who was like his own son. In the absence of his parents, he took over the role of both mother and father.
"Coming!" Sasha's voice Echoed from afar.
Soon thereafter she came galloping into the room, full of energy. The vampire came to a skidding stop right behind her mother, and only partially noticed the other young girl. It wasn't until she took a couple steps forward that they made eye contact. Firstly she just sort of stared and blinked a couple times, before tugging at Akasha's side.
"Who she?" Sasha pointed to the child succubi in human form.
Off to the side, Selene chortled but said nothing.
"Why don't you go ahead and ask her," Akasha looked down at Sasha.
And so with her head turned sideways, she again looked to the other girl.
"Hi, I'ma Sasha," she pointed. "Who you?"
Akasha held back laughter of her own. But Audrey just stood there and said nothing, until Morrigan lightly kneed Audrey in the back.
"It is impolite not to respond when someone asks you a question," the ruler of Makai frowned.
"Audrey," she said but with her eyes over the ground.
"That was extremely half-hearted, try again," Morrigan crossed her arms.
"Whateve," she looked up at her mother and tempted to roll her eyes but stopped herself from doing so. "I'm Audrey Aensland."
And with that statement, wings shot out of both her torso and head on either side.
"Cool I knew it!" Sasha jumped up and down. "I so could feel your monster energy! So yur a succubus, cool. We should be friends!"
Morrigan's eyes widened as she snapped.
"What did I tell you about revealing that side of yourself in the human world?!"
"Lookie, lookie, I've got wings too, see!"
Sasha's eyes turned red rose with a slit through them, and bat like wings, shooting from out of her back.
"Sasha!" the Dark Lord shouted.
"So I've heard," Audrey smiled. "But did they tell you yet?"
"Tell me what?" Sasha said excitedly.
"Oh, so they did not, huh? I'm yur, we're…"
"She's your sister, Sasha," Akasha stepped in and finished.
"Huh..." Sasha blinked as she looked back and forth between her mother and Audrey. "I confused."
She scratched at the left side of her head, while Akasha took another step forward and resting a hand over her shoulder.
"Morrigan is her mother, and Bruce her father just as he is to you," Akasha grinned.
A period of silence followed from there, as Sasha then took a couple steps towards Audrey.
"You're my sister?" she again pointed.
"Yup," the succubi nodded.
"Hhhhmmm," Sasha crossed her arms. "Which of us older?"
Audrey looked up at her mother and then back at Sasha.
"Well, you'd have it by a couple months, probably," Audrey shrugged.
And then came a burst of speed from out of nowhere as Sasha crashed down over Audrey! The collision had them spinning over the carpet and past Morrigan.
"So great! This is what I always wanted! Moka-nee cool, but too old. She hardly plays with me, unless I ask over and over. Come on, there's a whole bunch I want to do!"
Sasha seized hold of Audrey's hand and flapping her wings as both took to the air and flying up over everyone!
"Audrey, out of that form this instant!" Morrigan shot.
"You too Sasha," Akasha added. "Someone could see you through the windows!"
It was already too late as they passed around the corner.
"Fast... both of them," Selene noted.
Morrigan was just about ready to take off after both of them, but Akasha stepped in her way.
"It's okay, let them be," Akasha shook her head while eying Morrigan the whole time. "We'll have a talk with him later, let them have their fun for now."
The Dark Lord then looked to Alfred.
"Where are Bruce and Damian?" she asked.
"Out at the moment. Master Wayne for the next hour or so, and am unsure of master Damien."
"Very well," Akasha nodded. "Unfortunately I cannot stay for any longer. There is someone I intend to meet with very shortly. I'm going to leave Sasha here."
"Go ahead and do what you need to. I'll watch over them both," Morrigan breathed out, just as she eyed Alfred. "You needn't worry about that circus."
Akasha immediately let out a laugh, but just as quickly placed a hand over her mouth.
"Sorry," the vampire apologized, just before turning to Selene. "Time to go, we should be on our way. We'll first meet up with Lailay."
"Yes, Milady," the purple haired vampire bowed her head.
And with that the two of them passed through a vortex which shaped in the middle of the room and closing shut behind them.
XXX
Tsukune contorted as he took another drink of whatever this crap was, they called the house special. It tasted like swamp water, but then again, all of the beverages in low end taverns such as this did. What did they expect? Towns that smelled of urine and muck had what could only be described as dumpster fire taverns. Even the walls, furniture and doors were with much wear and tear. And when walking over the surface it gave off a cracking sound as if the foundation was going to give way. But that was far passed the point. They were here to take care of an important matter. In their travels across East/South, deep into the realm they came across this place where the invitation led them. It was a small town known as Dorinindel, and it had to be one of the most miserable places he'd passed through. Sitting on the edge of his chair, the village had the sullen disposition of a beaten pup, its monsters hunched and gray. The one that served them at the bar area had a broken nose and a massive scar across his face. And he snorted as he approached from the other side of the counter.
"Weapons gentlemen," he looked directly at both.
The two sitting over the stools gazed upon one another. What did he mean?
"Both of you are to surrender your weapons while in this building. Protocol."
Tsukune almost argued, but then two persons appeared from behind them and the search commenced.
Both he and Gin were patted down and only a dagger was removed from Tsukune's left jacket pocket which he just so happened to be wearing. And by this point the vampire and werewolf stood as they were further patted down and didn't sit until they got the okay to do so.
"Welcome to the Dorinindel," the bartender had said. "You boys here to try and get inside the loop?"
Gin put on his best "I'm a humble adventurer and eager to get started" face.
"He's merely a wingman, my information, errand guy of sorts," Gin waved his finger in the direction of Tsukune but didn't give him a look. "This is my gig."
The bartender looked back and forth between them before a smirk shaped over the left side of his face.
"Fine, but your boy stays here," the bartender said, just before gesturing for Gin to follow.
It was around the counter and through a curtain where he was led through and seated at a lone table. It was dark but candles around to bring light to the area, and all around there were at least twenty to thirty other individuals. All of which in some way or another had connections to Daizo. A beverage was already in place and so he poured himself a glass, to appear engaged, even before his company arrived.
The werewolf sat there by his lonesome, taking another sip of what was inside his glass and trying to enjoy it as much as he could. But truthfully, he didn't know how much more of this you could take; feeling as though he would hurl. It was no better than what was served to him and Tsukune outside. The very bitter taste went right to his stomach. How could they drink this crap? His stomach grumbled as he coughed. The bartender attended to a nearby table of a pack engaging in a game of cards. Turning his back to Gin, he looked to a new set of customers that just entered through the front door; each taking a seat two stools away from Gin. This was no good, if he continued to drink he'd be out of it by the time the recruiter arrived. Felling somewhat dazed and dizzy, he leaned his head forward over the table. And with his forehead over the wooden surface, he closed his eyes for a moment. The curtains across the room slid open, but he didn't bother to look. He was just ready to get out of here; ready for this to be over.
"Morioka," a tap came at the back of his left shoulder.
Turning his head and looking back, it was someone dressed in a dark brown trench coat. It was not someone he recognized, but in a simple sniff knew it was another of his kind. A werewolf. This individual also wore a dark colored hat, which just about covered his eyes. Slowly settling himself into a chair beside Gin, he didn't give eye contact. Instead, he banged his fist and getting the attention of the bartender. They exchanged a few words, but in a language that Gin didn't understand. It was neither Japanese nor English... Russian, perhaps. But even then he couldn't say for certain. Whatever the case, the conversation was short and a glass bottle placed in front of the person who sat beside him. He popped open the alcoholic beverage and drank directly from the bottle.
"Morioka, my man," he roughly slapped at his shoulder.
"So I hear you are interested in banding with the crew. That true, young pup?" he took another drink out of the bottle.
"Something like that. You heard right."
"Tell me, for what reason and how did you stumble upon us?"
"I hear stuff, and got friends in high places. A whole lot of resources. The street life is nothing new to me, I'd be a great addition, as you will quickly find out."
The one beside him smiled and took another drink.
"You a brawler, pup?"
"That, and much more. I've been looking for a new game, ever since I dropped out of the last crew. Real small-time, nothing you'd know about. But I learned and picked up on a lot from then. So where's this boss guy. Daizo?"
"That isn't how it works pup, you don't see boss man till you pass a couple tests. Getting in isn't just a simple knock at the door and friendly appeal. You got to earn it, trust, reliability and contribution. Those are the most critical things we look for in new staffs. You think you got those, son?"
Keeping a straight face, Gin continued to play his role. After all, others were counting on him. He was going to be there inside guy, and the one that could get them to the head guy running the show.
"Bring me aboard and you shall see. I'm not one for talk, I let my actions do the talking."
The other beside him laughed.
"I like you," he slapped out his shoulder once more. "Consider yourself halfway through the door. There's a little get together coming, rendezvous of a bunch of guys. We have a way of testing the newbies. Pass and you are in. Fair enough?"
"I wouldn't have it any other way," Gin responded.
"Good."
The werewolf beside him pulled out a small notepad and writing out what seemed to be directions to somewhere.
"Here, take this. Three days from now, the human world... We'll meet at this location. Three o'clock in the afternoon sharp, be there."
Tilting his hat somewhat, the individual stood and took off through the curtains and exited the tavern. For the next couple minutes or so, he just sat there. While on the other side of the curtain Tsukune made his exit. Gin waited another two minutes before following. And it was in an alley way across the street where they met.
"Well?" the vampire questioned.
"I'm in," Gin flashed the piece of paper in front of Tsukune's face. "Well at least this is one step in the right direction."
Tsukune took the slip of paper into his hands and read it over.
"Directions?"
"Yeah," Gin confirmed with the nod of his head. "Three days from now. They're meeting up and supposedly I'm gonna be put through some tests. What about, no clue. But I'll pass and then hopefully we can get close to this Daizo guy."
Allowing his shoulders to drop, Tsukune breathed out just as he looked upward into the sky.
"Thanks for this, Gin. I really mean that… sorry to have to put you in such a position. But this seems like the quickest way we can get to this guy and figure out what they want from the depths of the academy."
"Don't sweat it. This is no prob, I've got your back no matter what. We'll put a stop to this guy's operation."
XXX
"Why is it so hot out? Fuck..."
Stripping off his drenched T-shirt, Brovam panted under the unforgiving sun of Arcenill Mount. From each kingdom or land he traveled through, this one was absolutely the most unforgiving far as heat. The previous night he had met up with the dragon king back in Vindellorien and halfway through the festivities of the ballroom event. The night hadn't ended quite how Fafnir would have liked, outside duties forcing him to dismiss himself earlier than he would have liked. Brovam was however someone he knew well; a resident of a small town between the kingdom of Vindellorien and Arcenill Mount. The dwarf engaged in much trades of materials between both lands. And however on this day, up high the sun blazed down on him with a vengeance. Sweat ran down the exhausted rancher's brow, his sight going blurry for a moment as he tried to wipe away the moisture. He felt as if his body heat was rolling off of him in steam clouds and his skin melting off.
He volunteered to help alongside some of the other farmers, but unlike him they didn't at all seem affected by the heat. Must have been nice to be a dragon. Starting early in the morning before sunrise, Brovam had tried to beat the heat but it simply couldn't be done. Noon rolled around, to his dismay. The field was harvested, finally. But, now he sat in the soil close to heat exhaustion.
"Hey! You doing alright?"
He was startled at the sudden voice, Brovam looked up lethargically from his seated position and nodded to the best of his ability.
"I'm alright, Fafnir...sir," Brovam called out across the way. "It's hot as hell."
The dragon was on horseback in his human form and galloped along. On the way back, he noticed Fafnir off in the distance. He moved in closer with mild concern in his eyes.
Dazed for reasons that had nothing to do with exhaustion, Brovam stared up at Fafnir who stood right before him, jumping down from the horse. Massively tall already, the dragon king looked even bigger from the ground. The hot weather left a thin layer of perspiration along his bulging muscles, catching the sunlight. With a red face, Brovam averted his gaze off to the side to stare at the ground.
"Get out of the sun for a little, little guy," Fafnir suggested, seeing the color sprouting along the rancher's flushed face and mistaking it simply for oncoming heatstroke. "You look like you're going to pass out."
Extending a large hand down, the king helped Brovam back up to his feet.
"You need to take care of yourself. C'mon, let's get you a drink."
"It's alright, I'll get it. You should get back to whatever you need to."
Clapping the dwarf on the back jokingly as a friendly gesture, Fafnir immediately regretted it when Brovam staggered forward from the hit. The dragon caught him before he could fall.
"That's it. We're getting you out of here, I'll order us both some cold drinks," Fafnir helped him along.
Together they headed up the hill where the Palace of Arcenill Mount came into view. In just a short while they were through the main gates, and the dragon king helping his visitor through the doors and into one of the bars. Soft music played, and they were only a handful of person sitting around. Some drinking, while other just engaged in conversation.
"Much, better isn't it?" Fafnir pulled out that chair as the other sat.
Atop them was a ceiling fan, but there was also air conditioning. The king of Arcenill Mount had barely began to pull out his own chair, when someone approached him from clear across the room through the double doors.
"My lord," the individual bowed his head. "You're with visitors."
"Whom? I don't have any scheduled meetings," the dragon crossed his arms.
"No sir, you do not. She sort of just showed up out of the blue, sir. The Dark Lord, your majesty. She is here to see you."
Hearing this brought about laughter from Fafnir, lowering the palms of his hands over the wooden table.
"Little sis in town to visit on my turf. And what of the subject matter? Was she sent by father?"
"Unknown sir. She hasn't said much, but awaits you in your throne room. We simply couldn't shoo her away, after all she is a Dar..."
"Yeah, yeah I wouldn't have you either way. Bad publicity, and I've already got enough family drama. I'll see her. Just make certain my bud here is taken care of, okay," Fafnir patted over the shoulder of his subordinate.
"Sir?"
"Just a few drinks is all, and make sure he stays out of the sun for the next couple hours. Dwarfs just don't have the same resistance to heat as we do."
Those were Fafnir's last words as he took off out of the bar, with both hands in his pockets. And the whole time on his way to the throne room he walked slowly, thinking to himself, why, what could she possibly want? It must have been by his father's request. Akasha knew full and well how he viewed her as of recent, and that aside she wasn't the type to come trotting through his doors for just a casual visit. Even if business, she very easily could have sent a letter or contacted him a couple dozen different ways. Whatever the case, he hoped it was short, sweet and to the point, so that he may be rid of her.
And on his way through the halls, making turns left and right he was greeted by his pupils; showing their appreciation for their ruler. He would nod his head now and then, but always kept his eyes out in front of him. And before he knew it, Fafnir stood in front of the fifteen foot doors leading into what he like to believe was his space of work and overseeing Arcenill Mount. And so with one hand out in front of him, he slowly pushed open the doors and there she stood on the other side. Dressed in a dark blue gown, black bow tied in her hair and two very familiar person is standing on either side of her. The first a woman with fair skin standing at 5'9, long purple hair, tied in a ponytail, red eyes, slit pupils, and wore lightweight armor. The second stood at 5'9, red eyes with slit pupils, shoulder length blond hair with streaks of red and blue and she wore lightweight armor just as the other. They were Selene Kayeda and Lailay Izami.
"Little sis, to what do I owe the honor," Fafnir said, somewhat dragging himself along.
The pink-haired vampire looked his way, not particularly amused by his sarcastic statement.
"You watch the way you speak to Akasha-sama!" Lailay clutched her fists.
"One of the piglets talking out of turn, oh my. Akasha-sama, perhaps you should remind your little gals just who the hell I am," Fafnir chortled.
Akasha this time rolled her eyes, seeing how he addressed her in such a sarcastic manner and didn't seem to take her presence very serious.
"The Asagao three, hhhmmm," Fafnir scratched at his chain. "Or two. Where's the third? I like her, she's the most feisty of you clump."
Selene stood straight with no change in expression or emotion, but Lailay irked and her fists tightening once again.
"Fafnir, enough," Akasha shook her head. "I didn't come to invade your personal space, or to be taunted. I'd like to ask something of you."
"Is that right. Well go on ahead, ask away. There's hundreds of different places I could be, other than standing here. Make it quick."
Irritated was the best way to describe how he felt, but he did his best not to show it. Even so Akasha knew him far too well, vice versa and there wasn't a lot they could hide from each other.
"I don't know why, but Bruce asked to meet with you."
Fafnir raised an eyebrow, and his body tightening somewhat.
"Bruce, as in..."
"Sasha's father, yes. Any idea why that might be? He told me nothing," Akasha added.
The dragon's teeth grazed his tongue, but maintained his composure.
"Heck if I know, I barely even spoke to the guy. Your guess is as good as mine. You sure you heard him right?"
From her perspective and virtually everyone else, there was no interface nor connection between the two. Akasha looked him off for a moment and let out a sigh.
"My thoughts exactly. That's curious, but I'm sure he has his reasons," Akasha grinned with her hands together. "Even after all this time, I've never quite yet figured that man out. So mysterious."
"If we are done, I'd rather not talk about your ex or anything to do with your social life. I don't give a crap, and you know it. Hell, you didn't have to come all the way out here for that."
Straightening herself, she looked him in the face as her breathing slowed.
"You're right, I could have just called. But there's another reason I came all the way out here. And please hear me out. It's about you and I… us."
Fafnir's eyes narrowed, finding he was becoming somewhat interested.
"Okay, I'll bite. What about us? Sounds like a personal matter. Do you really want your puppets around to listen?" Fafnir was with his hands raised over and behind his head.
Lailay right away snapped and lunged forward at the Dragon, but Akasha's hand swiftly snatched her arm and propelled her backwards.
"Lailay! Stand your ground!" Akasha grumbled, as she glared back at her underling.
Fafnir was nothing short of amused, and finding joy out of the scenario. Recollecting herself and taking a couple deep breaths, Akasha settled herself so that she would not lash out.
"Whatever I need to say to you can be heard by them. They're family to me."
"Pfff, fine. Say what you need to," Fafnir responded.
"I'll put it to you straight and take it for what it's worth. You and I, our relationship, I... it needs to change. We're the only living son and daughter of father. We hold down important positions within the realm; many looking up to and counting on us. The isolation and separation does none of us any good. I for one would like to be back on good terms with you. Not that I ever viewed you otherwise, then with love and care. I've made my mistakes, but so too have you. Please, whatever ill will you garnered towards me, you must drop it. None of us are perfect. Please nii-san, do this for us," the Dark Lord didn't take her eyes off him for even a moment.
"Nii-san, haha. You haven't called me that in so long."
Akasha right away bit at her tongue, feeling she was no closer to reaching her. It all just seemed so pointless, but that wouldn't stop her from trying.
"I'll be in Arcenill Mount for the next couple hours. There's a little spot up town that I know you've passed through. I've rented out the entire diner. Stop by if you feel up to it and we can have a few drinks and maybe a few laughs... Like old times."
Was this woman serious?! Where was this even coming from? She returned to the throne months ago and of all times she chose now to do this?! The whole thing was a headache. And At this point he bit at his lip, while his fingernails scratched at the side of his pants.
"Whatever, is that all?" Fafnir asked.
"Does that mean you will come?" Akasha asked, hopeful.
"Tsk, maybe... but don't hold your breath. And as for Wayne, sure. I'll meet with him. But it'll be on my terms and I'll find him."
"Great," Akasha nodded. "I'll let him know."
"That it?" the dragon asked once more.
"Yes, but please do stop by. There's so much I'd like to discuss and catch up on. Selene, Lailay, let's go."
Lailay glowered at Fafnir who only grinned back at her, before she turned and followed after her master. When just about a foot away from the exit, Akasha noticed Selene hadn't moved a muscle.
"What are you doing?"
"Go on Akasha-sama, I'll be right behind you," Selene responded.
The Dark Lord wasn't sure what to make of this, but Selene appeared composed and so without indecision she took off with Lailay beside her. And even after the door closed, the purple haired vampire kept quiet; listening to their footsteps progress further and further away. Fafnir's guardsman we're also vacant from the room, being just the two of them.
"Hhhhmmm, puppets? Really?" she smiled at him.
"I'm not much for her, you know... and besides, I had to put on a show. You must know something about this, Wayne wanting to meet with me and all, yes?"
"Unfortunately, I do not. I might have an idea as to the subject matter, but even I can't be too sure. Much has happened in even just the last two weeks, he's gone through another significant change. And you wouldn't believe me even if I told you. Till now, I'm still having in awe."
With his shoulders lowered and arms crossed, the dragon looked straight at her.
"Try me," the king responded.
The vampire shook her head with a single step back.
"When you meet with them, ask about it. Perhaps that's why he wants to meet, but who really knows. And off topic for a moment, how goes the rebuilding of the Kygnini Bridge?"
Fafnir's eyebrow raised, not at all expecting the question which came out of nowhere.
"Very well, actually. Nearly Seventy five percent of the rebuilding funds have come straight out of Arcenill Mount, and more than half of that out of my own pocket. Though I haven't made that public and neither will you. Construction is way ahead of schedule and coming along beautifully. And all the while each individual Kingdom of this realm continues their own separate investigations. A lot of ifs and buts, finger pointing, slurs and conspiracies. It is sure to make the history books one day. The mystery of Lagooz Forest, what really happened that night? Some of the better soldiers in this realm ambushed by thousands, and some of the worst criminals known to our world freed. And to think it was all done by one man... but they'll never know, not a single soul. Wayne handled things masterful, but still... only Jitoshi Ichiro was the intended target."
Selene nodded.
"I know, it comes to me once in a while. Who or what freed the others."
Breathing out, Fanir looked her off.
"You should get going. Bloodriver may come off as naive, timid and oblivious... but she is none of those. In her early days, sure. But that's long past. She might get suspicious."
"You speak as if I haven't been at her side for the past couple centuries when not in limbo. I know this," Selene turned her back and headed for the exit, but stopped short of it. "You know, what she said a while ago is true. From the bottom of her heart, she very much cares for you like she does the rest of her family. You should consider meeting with us later."
The vampire resituated her body and faced him.
"It isn't really her you're angry with. Nor is it with anyone in particular. What really has you bothered in regards to her is your father's treatment of the situation. Or lack thereof punishment and or restrictions from her actions seven years ago. All is well that ends well. You know I'm right. Put it behind you and forgive her. That's all I have to say on the matter."
Again turning her back to him, this time she saw herself through the door.
"Pffff, what do you want me to do. Bend a knee and kiss at her feet, like hell..." the dragon mumbled to himself.
XXX
Her eyes slowly opened, and the first thing she noticed was the splitting headache that fell upon her. And next was that she wasn't in her own bed. Almost startled, she jumped up but then settled as a voice called out.
"Yukari, you're awake. Good. You hit your head pretty good, but you'll be fine. Here, have a drink of this."
"Za... Zatanna," the witch murmured her name.
"Here, hurry and drink," Zatanna walked up beside the bed. "It'll have you feeling one hundred in no time."
She carried with her a tray with a cup of something; steam flowing freely of it. Yukari had no idea what it was, but it smelled good and seeing as it was offered by Zatanna she had no doubt it would help with her condition. In drinking down just half of it, the witch felt a burst of energy through her body.
"Where are we? And what about the relic, did we get it?"
"We did, the Heirloom of Healing is safely sealed away in the next room. With that in our possession we are ready to proceed. And as for where we are, the Shadowcrest. You're safe here, rest up and regain your energy."
"I should have taken your advice and stayed out of this one. Not only did I almost compromise the objective, but got myself kil..."
"Don't be so hard on yourself. Experience, growing and refining ourselves is essential for growth. There's always risks when trying to get from point A to B. Sometimes greater than others. When you feel up to it, let me know and I will get you home. You should rest up for a couple days before we proceed with this. Besides, there's still a lot of this stuff that I need to make sense of. Getting close, I won't need much longer."
Yukari finished what was left inside the cup, and resting her back against the headboard.
"When will you give me the full scoop on what we are doing? No hurry, just a little anxious and attentive."
"You'll soon find out," Zatanna smiled at her, as she took off for the door. "Salvage your energy for now. I'll be in the next room working if you need anything."
To be continued
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- 56
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Clash of Realms