#and then ended up fighting in the battle nexus to get warriors in order to fight draxum | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

thatcrazyfanfictionwriter · 6 years

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Secret of the Sewers: Welcome to the Battle Nexus

"Cannonball!" Mikey shouted, taking a running jump off a small rock outcropping.

He splashed down in the crisp, clean waters of the lake outside Casey's Grandma's farmhouse, joining the Hamato family as they swam. As the orange turtle surfaced, he spat out a small stream of water, reclining on his shell happily.

"Man, this is the life." Mikey let out.

"I have to agree with him." Raph spoke up, floating on an inner tube Don had found in the garage. "This is nice."

"I'm glad Casey's mom let us borrow the farmhouse for the week." Hisako spoke up, letting her hair out of its usual ponytail before slipping into the water herself. "After the weeks- no, months we've had, we needed this."

"That's for sure." Leo agreed, climbing onto a small rock jutting out of the water. "It's nice to just kick back and not have any villains to fight for once."

"I can't believe that Shredder's really gone for good." Donny commented, sitting on the dock and kicking his feet in the water.

"I agree Donatello." Splinter told him, sitting on the grass in a meditative stance. "Saki's hold over our family is finally gone, and Miwa has found her place amongst the ranks of the true Foot Clan."

"I hope she's doing ok." Leo voiced.

"You kidding, she's a Hamato." Raph reminded him. "And a Hamato can make it through anything."

"Cheers to that, bro." Leo declared.

As the group continued talking, Mikey swam under the water towards the docks. As Donny continued kicking the water, Mikey grabbed his foot and pulled him in. Donny fell in with a yelp, coming up for air while coughing slightly.

"Mikey!" he screamed. "What the shell was that for?!"

"No reason you should be dry as a bone while we're all out here where a turtle should be." Mikey argued.

"Maybe I didn't want to get wet." Donny countered.

"Maybe you did, maybe you didn't," Mikey replied. "But you are, so nah, nah, nah-nah, nah."

"Oh, you are so gonna get it!" Donny declared tackling him.

They two went down into the water, the other three siblings grinning.

"Water fight!" they announced in unison, diving into the fray.

The five siblings all went at it, splashing and ducking one another without mercy. Splinter watched from the grass, shaking his head while smiling contently.

"Kids..." he said to himself.

Just then, the water began to swirl, forming a small whirlpool in the center of the lake. The siblings all surfaced, thankfully just on the outside of the freshly formed vortex.

"Hisako…?" Donny questioned.

"It's not me, I swear." she told him.

That's when the water began to funnel upward, opening and allowing the strangest looking man to emerge. He seemed to be almost translucent, his entire body shimmering as if it was made of water. He was wearing a traditional Japanese outfit reminiscent of the gyoji from Sumo Wrestling, as well as a white mask that covered his entire face.

"What the…" Raph let out.

"Hamato Clan of Dimension 5th Earth." the strange man announced. "On behave of the Daimyo, master of the Battle Nexus, I have come to extend an invitation to participate in the Tournament of Champions."

"Battle Nexus?" Donny questioned.

"Daimyo?" Mikey asked.

"Tournament of Champions?" Leo inquired.

The Translucent Man seemed to chuckle.

"I apologize." he told them. "I am certain this is all quite confusing to you. Perhaps this will help to clarify."

He reached into his sleeve, pulling out a traditional war paddle. He shook it in his hands, and the water of the lake lifted again. This created a floating pool of water that suspended itself like a screen. The man used it to display crude images as he spoke.

"You see, your dimension is one of countless in an infinite multiverse." He explained. "And at the center of all these worlds, is the Battle Nexus."

"So, the Nexus is a point of overlapping subspace commonality?" Mikey questioned.

The other just turned to him, giving him confused looks. Even Master Splinter seemed surprised.

"What?" Mikey questioned. "Donny's not the only one that likes Star Trek you know."

"That's more like it." Hisako let out in relief.

"So, what is this Battle Nexus, really?" Leo asked. "As well as this 'Tournament of Champions?"

"The Battle Nexus was built by the great Daimyo in order to unite the various universes." the man explained. "Every year, he invites the greatest champions of various worlds to attend. Up until now, no heroes have shown up on this world that were worthy of the tournament. Not until the six of you. You fight with great honor, putting the needs of others before your own, and even when face with your worst enemy, you showed mercy."

"Aw go on." Mikey brushed aside. "... no seriously, go on. We could use the praise."

Raph just elbowed him in response.

"Normally, contestants would have to pass through the preliminary tryouts before attending, but in light of your recent heroics, the Daimyo has seen fit to grand you automatic admission, should you choose to accept it." The translucent man concluded.

"Shell yeah we accept it!" Mikey exclaimed.

"Can we Sensei?" Leo asked, turning to Splinter.

"Please?" Hisako begged.

"It would be a nice change of pace, being able to fight against other honorable warriors." Donny told him.

"Indeed." Splinter pondered. "I cannot remember the last time I was able to participate in such a tournament."

"So… is that a yes?" Raph asked hopefully.

"Yes Raphael." Splinter confirmed. "We will participate in this tournament."

"Excellent." The translucent man told them. "When you are ready, enter the portal."

With that, he shook his war paddle again. The shimmering pool fell back into the lake as the vortex returned. The man then descended into it, disappearing without a trace. The siblings all grinned, then got out of the water and ran towards the docks.

"Care to do the honors, Mikey?" Leo asked.

"You betcha!" The orange turtle announced before the five siblings all held hands. "Cowabunga!"

They all jumped into the swirling portal at the same time, disappearing with barely a splash. Splinter watched them go, shaking his head with a smile. He then jumped into the portal after them.

…

The swirling portal tossed the siblings around for a few minutes, all of them still clinging to one another tightly. Eventually, it spat them all out in the middle of an ornate gazebo, all of them landing in one big turtle pile. Splinter emerged after them, flipping over their haphazard pile gracefully before landing triumphantly on the ground in front of them. He straightened up, his eyes widening as he took in his surroundings

"My children," he let out. "You must see this."

The Hamato siblings slowly untangled themselves from one another, getting to their feet with many groans and moans. When they finally got to their feet, their collective jaws dropped.

"Guys… I don't think we're in Northampton anymore." Hisako whispered.

The portal had dumped them out at the beginning of a long cobblestone path that cut through a field of lush grass with small, majestic rock outcroppings. Ahead of them was a large cliff that had dual waterfalls falling on either side of it. The waterfalls parted to reveal a large stone statue carved into the rocks. The statue stood over what could only be described as a large island standing in the middle of the waterfall's pool.

The island was dominated by a large city, one that seemed to have been plucked straight out of Feudal Japan. It was surrounded by a large, stone wall with an ornate gate opening at the end of a large bridge that connected the island to the mainland.

"This… is… AWESOME!" Mikey cheered.

He began running towards it, but Leo stopped him.

"Hold on guys." he insisted. "We've got a slight problem."

"Leo, for once there is no problem!" Raph insisted. "We were invited here, this place looks freakin' awesome, what's the hold-up?"

"Two things." Leo said, holding up his solitary two fingers. "First, none of us have our weapons. Second, we're all still in our swimsuits."

Everyone blanched, looking down at themselves. Sure enough, each of the turtles were wearing nothing but appropriately colored swimming trunks while Hisako was left in a green and black short sleeved wetsuit. Splinter, the only one who had elected not to go swimming, was the only one dressed and armed.

"Sewer cakes." Donny swore. "What do we do?"

"We can't go in there looking like this." Mikey insisted. "We'll look like idiots!"

"Maybe we could go back through the portal." Hisako suggested. "Just pop back to Northampton, grab our stuff, and-"

She cut herself off as she saw the portal had disappeared, leaving the Hamato Clan without a way home.

"There are so many words going through my head, and none of them are very nice." Hisako muttered.

"Hey!" Raph began shouting. "Weird water guy! A little help!"

From a small pool in the center of the gazebo, the Translucent Men emerged, facing the Hamato Clan.

"Is there a problem?" he asked.

"Unfortunately, in their eagerness to join your tournament, my children neglected to bring their clothes and weapons." Splinter explained.

The Translucent Man looked at the five Hamato siblings, examining them.

"Oh my, this simply will not do." he announced.

He lifted his war paddle, giving it a shake. The water from the gazebo rose up, swirling around each of the siblings individually. They vanished into cocoons of water, which began to glow briefly. After a minute the water flowed back into the gazebo, revealing the siblings in their new outfits.

They were all wearing black suits with large collars that could double as lower face masks. Metal arm plates protected their upper and forearms, with smaller plates attached to a pair of gloves. The pants bunched up a bit at the knees before tightening around their ankles, so their new sandals would fit. The turtles had large chest plates that covered their entire torso while Hisako's only covered her chest. A quick pat on her stomach revealed a secondary plate under her clothes. The turtles also had shoulder guards and a codpiece, and all five of them had straps and scarves in their respective colors across their chests. As an added bonus, Hisako's hair had been done up in a bun with decorative chopsticks sticking out.

"Whoa." Raph let out. "Not bad."

"I could get used to these." Hisako commented.

"These are traditional battle garments worn by many of the soldiers that reside here." the man explained. "Consider them a gift. As for your weapons, I shall go and fetch them momentarily. Take the opportunity to explore the Nexus. The tournament does not start until tomorrow, and I am certain you are eager to look around."

"You are awesome, translucent dude." Mikey complimented.

The man merely bowed respectfully, disappearing back into the water. Now properly attired, the Hamato family set their sights on the city.

"Shall we?" Master Splinter asked.

The siblings all nodded eagerly, then they made their way down the path and towards the large town.

...

Upon entering the large town, the Hamato family was floored by just how many different species of aliens there were. No two creatures looked the same, with every single creature there was as strange and unique as the last. There were shops across the square set up like a bazaar, creatures calling out with bets on the fights, souvenirs and food.

"Dudes..." Mikey gasped. "Do you realize what this is?"

"I'll bite." Raph declared. "What?"

"The opportunity we missed out on while on D'hoonib!" Mikey cheered.

"Mikey's right," Donny concurred. "Here we can walk around in broad daylight without anyone screaming their heads off at our passing."

"And these cerebralites come in handy too." Hisako added. "Everyone is speaking English."

"What are you talking about?" Splinter questioned. "Every creature here is speaking English."

The turtles exchanged confused looks.

"But that makes no sense." Leo pointed out. "How can random beings from various planets and dimensions all know how to speak English?"

"Perhaps I can explain." The translucent man offered, rising out from a nearby puddle.

Everyone jumped, turning towards him in surprise.

"You again." Mikey let out. "Seriously dude, someone needs to put a bell on you."

"The Battle Nexus had very unique properties." the man explained, seemingly oblivious to Mikey's bell quip. "The air is breathable by all, and the magic of this world makes it so no matter where you are from, you hear your home world's native tongue. After all, this is a place where fellow heroes can meet, and that is much easier without a language barrier."

"That's handy." Donny conceded.

"I'm liking this place more and more." Raph agreed.

The translucent man smiled, then waved his war paddle. It left a trail of water in its wake, from which their weapons emerged from. The siblings all reached in grabbing their weapons and stowing them on their belts and backs.

"The first round does not take place until tomorrow, so feel free to explore the Nexus" the translucent man informed them. "Here is the key to your room in the Home of Champions, as well as a contestant wallet so you can enjoy the bazaar at your leisure."

He waved his war paddle again, six ornate keys and small pouches emerged from the produced water. They all claimed their stuff, then the translucent man folded in on himself, disappearing once again.

"So, what do we do now?" Mikey asked.

"I don't know about you, but I'm going to take a look around this Nexus." Donny reported. "Just think about all of the various flora and fauna I can find that's unique to this place. All of the unexplained phenomena just waiting for me."

"Knock yourself out, Don." Raph told him.

"Just make sure to report to our room by sundown." Splinter insisted.

"Will do Master Splinter." Donny replied before heading off.

"I'm going to see if there's a training ground." Leo decided. "I'm curious to see what we'll be facing in the upcoming fights."

"Suit yourself." Mikey replied. "I'm going to go find something to eat."

Splinter immediately turned to Raph, who held up a hand.

"You don't even have to ask, Sensei." he told him. "I'll follow Mikey to make sure he behaves."

"I'll go with Leo." Hisako declared. "I could use some practice anyhow."

"I shall conduct my own exploration." Splinter decided. "It has been some time since I could walk the streets freely. Only a fool would pass up a chance like this."

"Then it's settled." Leo announced. "We'll meet back at the room at sundown."

Everyone nodded, then scattered about the Nexus.

...

As Donny walked around the Nexus, he was drawn in by all the amazing sights there were to see. He could see butterflies the size of birds flitting about the bazaar, cat-like creatures with multi-colored fur slinking through alleys. He continued looking around, wishing he'd been able to bring his lab coat, since it held his sketchbook.

"Maybe I can grab one from the bazaar." he mused.

He managed to find a small parchment shop, getting himself a small leather-bound book and a quill. After figuring out the strange pen, and realizing he didn't need ink like he believed, the purple turtle began sketching away at everything he saw.

"I wonder if anyone would mind if I took some flora samples with me." He pondered.

As Donny looked up, he saw a small garden set up in a large courtyard near the center of the town. He made a beeline for it, marveling at the array of plants.

"Holy chalupa..." he gasped.

He plucked a few flowers, pressing them into his book for further study. However, as he reached for a darker flower with bright red pollen, a gloved hand grabbed his wrist, preventing him from getting it.

"I'd advise against that." the owner of the hand advised.

Donny looked up to see a warrior clothed in navy blue and yellow armor with a purple cloak and a red oni mask standing over him. The warrior let go of his hand before gesturing to the flowers.

"These are Nexus poppies." he explained. "While they are beautiful, their pollen is especially dangerous. It reacts violently with retinal fluid, and will rend its victims blind within hours."

"Yikes." Donny let out, pulling his hand away. "Talk about a blinding powder. Thanks for the save."

"Think nothing of it." the warrior replied, lifting his mask to reveal a younger face with long red hair that reached his back. "I am Ue-sama, the Son of the Daimyo."

"I'm Donatello." Donny replied. "I'm one of the contestants in the Tournament.

"Yes, my father told me of you." Ue-sama informed him. "He says you and your family are skilled warriors. I look forward to seeing you in the arena."

"Think maybe we'll match up in the tournament?" Donny asked.

Ue-sama shook his head.

"No, not this time." He answered. "My father forbade me from entering the tournament this year. I am merely a spectator."

"Ah." Donny replied. "Shame. You seem like a mighty warrior."

Ue-sama bowed.

"I have earned the title of Ultimate Ninja throughout my years in the arena." he boasted. "But my father has told me that a title does not make a warrior, but how they use their skills."

"My father's told me the same thing." Donny responded. "Well, if you're not busy, would you mind helping me with my studies?"

"I'm afraid I cannot." Ue-sama answered. "I have many duties to attend to for tomorrow's tournament."

"I understand." Donny relented. "Hope to see you around."

"Likewise." Ue-sama replied before heading off.

…

Leo and Hisako made their way through the town, following signs for a training ground. As they approached, they could hear someone already there, the occasional grunt being carried on the wind.

"Sounds like someone's getting their workout in." Leo remarked.

"Yeah." Hisako agreed. "They sound tough."

As they finally reached the training ground, they found a lone warrior training on a dummy made of bamboo. The warrior was a white rabbit, one that wore traditional Japanese clothing from the edo period, and had its long ears tied up as if in a topknot. He carried two traditional swords, one slightly shorter than the other, and fought with the ferocity of a man who had spent his entire life fighting. Leo let out a whistle of admiration.

"Impressive." he remarked.

The rabbit paused mid-swing, glancing over at Leo. He looked surprised, then sheathed his swords.

"I did not realize I had an audience." he commented, bowing to Leo and Hisako. "My name is Miyamoto Usagi."

"I'm Hamato Leonardo." Leo greeted. "This is my sister, Hamato Hisako."

Usagi perked up at the mention of Leo's name.

"Interesting," He commented. "I knew a warrior named Leonardo once. Though he was very different from you."

"Really?" Leo responded.

"Yes, though I suppose it's just happenstance." He dismissed. "Have you come to train for the tournament?"

"We have, yes." Hisako declared. "Though right now, I think my brother wants to test your skills."

"Very well then." Usagi replied, taking a fighting stance. "Test away."

Leo drew his own swords and started circling around Usagi. Hisako settled onto the wooden fence that surrounded the training ground, leaning forward eagerly as the match began. The two clashed swords, both warriors eying the other as if analyzing their style.

"It's strange." Usagi commented. "You even fight like him."

"I hope that's a compliment." Leo remarked, blocking a sword strike.

"Very much so." Usagi reassured. "Though there is a fire in your eyes that he did not have. The fire of one who is not above taking a life when necessary."

Leo then shoved Usagi off and tried swinging at him. The rabbit Ronin quickly ducked under the blade before bringing up his short sword to block it.

"Taking a life is never easy." Leo replied. "But sometimes, to protect the ones I care about, I've had to cross that line."

"I know, believe me." Usagi replied. "I have been forced to stains my sword many times. The life of a Ronin is a difficult one, but it is the life I have chosen."

"Sounds like you've been through a lot." Leo noted.

"As have you." Usagi added. "But there is a saying: Great men, or animals, are forged in flames."

"I can attest to that." Leo agreed, taking another swing at him.

...

Meanwhile, Raph and Mikey were walking around and enjoying the bazaar. Mikey's arms were laden with several different foreign treats, chowing down on them.

"Raph, you've got to try this thing." Mikey insisted, holding up a weird, purple pastry. "It's like a cupcake and a jelly donut had a baby."

Raph grabbed the pastry and took a bite out of it.

"Not bad." Raph admitted.

"I know, right?" Mikey said happily. "Dude, I wanna live here. Like, forever."

"That would be nice." Raph agreed.

As they walked along, they walked past a humanoid rhino in a white, traditional Japanese gi. Once the rhino laid eyes on them, a smile broke out on his face.

"Well, well, I was wondering when I'd come across you!" he declared.

"Um… ok." Mikey let out. "Who are you?"

"Names Gennosuke." The rhino introduced. "Though my friends call me Gen. and you two must be a pair of those new warriors that were added to the roster."

"Yeah that's us." Raph confirmed. "What about it?"

"My friend and I are contestants in the games ourselves." Gen explained. "And I'm starting a bit of a betting pool on who's to win. Got the odds all written out, and all I need now is info on the new meat."

"You're talking like you're already slated to win." Raph commented with his arms crossed.

"Well the odds of me winning are three to one." Gen conceded. "What do you say?"

"I say you haven't met us yet." Mikey declared. "If you knew half the things we've done, you'd know that if anyone was slated to win, it's one of us."

"Ha! You?" Gen dismissed. "The odds of anyone of you is two hundred to one. You don't have a chance."

"Hey, only one person gets to badmouth my brother, and he's standing right here." Raph declared, jabbing Gen in the chest. "So why don't you take your betting pool and turn your sawed-off horn elsewhere, okay?"

"Suit yourself." Gen replied, walking off. "Your loss."

"Thanks dude." Mikey said. "So, let's see if this place has any pizza. I've got one shell of a craving."

Raph just shook his head, smiling as the two went off.

...

In another part of the Nexus, Splinter was just walking down the streets of the Nexus Plaza. The feeling of the sun on his face, as well as the casual chaos of the streets was music to his ears. It reminded him of his time of just simply being Hamato Yoshi.

"I cannot remember the last time I have felt so at home on the surface." he said to himself.

As he continued walking, he absentmindedly bumped into a large, anthropomorphic tiger. Both stopped, the tiger turning to him with a snarl.

"You should be careful." he growled. "Lots of races will tear you apart for such an offense."

"My apologies." Splinter insisted, giving a small bow. "I was just enjoying the plaza."

The tiger looked at him, then sighed.

"Jeez, I can't be mad at a face like that." he let out. "This the first time ya ever seen daylight?"

"No, but I haven't been able to go out into the light for many years." Splinter admitted. "Beings like me are… uncommon in my world."

"Hate to live there." the tiger commented. "I'm Tigerclaw. You got a name?"

"Splinter." He replied.

"Pleasure to meet you." Tigerclaw told him. "You a contestant, or a spectator?"

"Contestant, as well as my family." Splinter told him.

"Family?" Tigerclaw repeated. "You're married?"

"Was." Splinter corrected. "She died… a long time ago."

"My condolences." he replied.

"She is in a better place." Splinter insisted. "I know she is watching over me and my children."

"How many?" Tigerclaw asked.

"Six." Splinter replied. "Though only five of them were able to attend. My other daughter is taking care of business abroad."

"You must be proud." Tigerclaw commented.

"More than I can ever express in words." Splinter agreed.

Tigerclaw smiled, then seemed to glance at his wrist.

"I wish you luck in the tournament." Tigerclaw told him. "Sorry to cut this conversation short, but I must be going."

"Of course." Splinter allowed. "Perhaps we will face each other in the tournament."

"Perhaps so." Tigerclaw replied before walking off.

Splinter watched him go, then turned and continued his own path. He was unaware of the fact that Tigerclaw turned back as well, scanning Splinter with a cold, calculating glare.

...

After sparring, Usagi and Leo had gone off to one of the Nexus' restaurants. Hisako had elected to remain behind in the training grounds, sharpening her skills and allowing the two swordsmen to talk.

"I must say, the more I talk to you, the more I feel like we have met before." Usagi declared.

"I wish I could say the same." Leo conceded. "You seem like someone I would be lucky to call friend."

Usagi smiled.

"Friends are in short supply for me these days." Usagi admitted, picking up his sake cup and taking a drink. "In my world, death is a constant figure. I have lost many friends along my path."

He rubbed an arch-shaped scar over his eyebrow.

"It is for that reason I became a Ronin."

"Really?" Leo replied. "What happened?"

Usagi set down his cup, letting out a sigh.

"I used to be a samurai, in the service of Lord Mifune." he explained. "I rose in the ranks, and soon became the personal bodyguard of his family, including his wife and young son. Unfortunately, I failed to prevent a ninja from assassinating them both, leaving my lord heartbroken and vengeful."

"That's… That's awful." Leo let out.

"Indeed." Usagi agreed. "We soon found out that a rival lord had ordered the assassinations, a vile man by the name of Lord Hijiki. Lord Mifune waged a war against the lord… and was slain in the final battle. It was the same day I got this."

He tapped his scar.

"I'm sorry." Leo tried to console.

"After burying the head of my lord, I was left masterless, and I became a Ronin." Usagi concluded. "It has been many years since that fateful day. I have seen much in my time and raised my blade many times. It is refreshing to know that this time, it will be in an honorable and bloodless conflict."

"I look forward to it myself." Leo agreed, smiling again. "You got quite the skill set there."

"Honed by years of experience." Usagi replied, his smile returning as well. "Though for your sake, I hope we are not pitted against one another."

"You think you can take me?" Leo remarked.

"It is a possibility." Usagi retorted.

Leo smirked, then got to his feet, tossing a few bills on the table.

"I guess we'll have to wait 'til tomorrow then." he quipped.

"That we will." Usagi replied as the two went off.

...

As the sun set over the horizon, the Hamato Clan reconvened at their designated room. It was a large, Japanese style room with an extremely large bed that had been set up in the center. The smaller futon beside it was clearly for Splinter, and the tasteful decorations and all-around homey feel of the place had all five of the siblings grinning.

"Look at this place." Hisako gasped as she pulled the chopsticks from her hair, allowing it to cascade down her back. "It's like a small slice of Japan meets the lair."

"It is quite reminiscent of the barracks I once called home with the Foot." Splinter recalled. "The attention to detail is remarkable."

"You're telling me." Donny agreed, helping his siblings shed their armor for some provided night clothes. "I've got an entire notebook of plants and observations that are going to be keeping me busy once we get home."

"Personally, I kind of wish we could make this place our home." Mikey admitted, plopping onto the bed.

"What's wrong with New York?" Leo questioned, helping Hisako tie her night kimono. "It's been our home since we hatched and mutated."

"Have you seen this place Leo?" Mikey asked. "The sights, the food, the people."

"Not to mention we can walk around in broad daylight." Raph added. "And no one wants to throw us in a cage or dissect us."

"The Nexus is nice and all, but our home is, and will always be New York." Leo declared, sitting down on the bed. "It's not perfect, but it's where we belong."

"Eh, I guess you're right." Mikey conceded.

"He is correct." Splinter agreed, laying down on the futon. "Now, get some rest, my children. The tournament begins tomorrow."

The five Hamato siblings nodded as they flopped onto the large bed, eager to get some rest.

...

In the dead of night, Ue-Sama stood in a large temple called The Hall of Champions. He stood in front of a statue of himself, which marked him as a previous champion, his foot tapping impatiently as he waited for someone. Eventually, a figure emerged from the shadows, remaining out of sight.

"Took you long enough." Ue-Sama snapped.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Ultimate Ninja." the figure replied, a voice dripping with malice and cold contempt.

"No matter." Ue-Sama dismissed. "You're here and that's what matters. Are you set for what you have to do tomorrow?"

"Yeah, yeah." the figure replied. "I was just scoping out the competition. We've got a few contenders to deal with, and the new editions are definitely powerful warriors."

"That won't be a problem, will it?" Ue-Sama questioned.

The figure chuckled darkly, emerging from the darkness to reveal none other than Tigerclaw.

"No." he answered. "It won't."

#TMNT #Leo #Donny #raph #mikey #Hisako #oc #Secret of the Sewers

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thenocturnalshadow · 3 years

Text

About

Name: Shadow

Age: Adult (25 equivalent)

Gender: Femme

Faction: Decepticon

Appearance:

Height: 23ft

Weight: mid weight, slightly more on the lighter side.

Alt-mode:

Weapons: One high frequency vibration sword that can slice through most metals. A pressure cannon which contains a gravity weapon that is only accessible in dragon mode.

Outlier ability: Shadow’s plated scales in her dragon mode are designed to absorb almost any beam type weapon contact.

Details

Strengths: Her scale plating makes her an intimidating and challenging foe as most don’t expect it and think her plating can withstand physical blows as well (it can’t). She is a skilled swordsman in root mode and an accurate shot in dragon mode. She will uphold her code of honor to the very word. This means that if she vows to kill someone she won’t stop until that person is dead, same with protecting someone. Shadow will protect someone she has vowed to, with her life.

Weaknesses: Even though her unique plating can absorb a lot of beam damage, that makes her exceptionally vulnerable to physical damage. Her smaller female frame can put her at a disadvantage against larger foes as she isn’t as physically strong as larger mechs. Shadow’s sense of honor will not allow her to retreat from a fight where her honor is put into question.

Personality: To put it simply Shadow is a lot like a medieval knight. She’s loyal and almost never questions her orders. She believes fully in the Decepticon cause and that strength and skill in combat are what is needed to win the war. She’s a honorable warrior, and frowns upon cheap tricks, and cheating to win. This is because she sees it as being too weak to win on one’s own. That aside she’s not above lying, stealing or being merciless in combat.

Her views on other life forms is one of curiosity, but more of an interest on how these creatures might serve the Decepticons or add to their power. She’s calm and tactical out of battle and usually before it. In battle she’s been known to lose her temper quite easily and even “Pretend” not to hear orders just to get another shot at a desired target. She detests losing and failure is seen as a mark of shame against her honor. If it’s a contest between loyalty or honor, Shadow will more than likely choose her honor first.

Background:

IDW2005: Shadow was once a Knight of Cybertron, though she did not join them in leaving the planet. Rather she ended up wrap in the tribalistic society that Cybertron became. Though retraining her Knightly behavior, she could not escape the waring or the Primes and Warlords and ended up forced to pick a side. This side ended up being that of Onyx Prime, which in the end was a poor choices as she was left behind as may other Beast formers were when Nexus Prime fell, all the titan left and Onyx Prime was no where to be found.

Gathered with the remaining beasts, she found her future under Nova Prime to be a bleak and unforgiving one given her beast altmode. Being one of the few femmes still on cybertron how ever made her a subject of research and experimentation by Jhiaxus in his attempts to recreate “Gender” via his experiments on Arcee.

Shadow would see freedom when Megatron organized the Decepticons and started a war. Being freed as a result of it, She swore loyalty to the Decepticons, reinforced by their Anti-functionist ideology. She would continue on serving in the war loyally even earn herself a small unit of soldiers at her command and a small ship called the Nocturne.

At the wars end when everyone was recalled to Cybertron, her unit disbanded, most of which ended up following Soundwave when Megatron denounced the Decepticons. Shadow however respected this choice, giving him one last salute out of respect from her place in the crowd. Hearing that Rodimus was searching for the knights of Cybertron, she signed on to find her lost fellow knights, never expecting she would find herself under Megatron’s command in the process.

G1: Originally a bodyguard assigned to Starscream, after Megatron and the others left Cybertron to chase the Autobots, she was reassigned. Shadow serves as a sort of lap dog or enforcer for Shockwave. Hunting down and dispatching targets that are assigned to her. and only resuming her former duties while Starscream is on Cybertron.

During the battle with Unicron, Shadow was off planet chasing down a traitor at the request of Megatron personally. Shadow would return after to find the the moons missing, a giant horned head orbiting the planet and the Decepticons yeeted of Cybertron. Needless to say she didn’t get a warm reception upon her return.

Eventually she found her way to Chaar and learned the fate of her leaders and found herself serving Galvatron as her knew leader.

TFP: A predacon clone that was never completed in time for the war. Shadow woke after with the discovery of the old lab by Predaking seeking out any others Shockwave may have created. Shadow is considered a runt compared to most Predacons as she was not completed as far as the growth process went. She is no less loyal to her king, having the same knightly devotion as her other incarnations.

TFA: Shadow is one of many Decepticons on the Nemesis, serving Megatron’s will and having strong convictions of the overthrow of the Autobots. Though more loyal to the Decepticon ideals, She views Megatron as being the most capable of actually taking out the Autobots. As her original Altmode is a beast, she is often looked down upon, but found some acceptance within the Decepticon ranks for her battle prowess.

SG: The mirrored version of Shadow sees her as a cowardly damsel often in need of saving. Though friendly and cheerful, she tends to scare easily and run from danger. She works closely with her mentor Shockwave in diplomacy for the Decepticons but her curiosity often gets her into bad situations.

#About page for Mobile #OOC

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draginhikari · 6 years

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Final Fantasy XIV: Azure and Crimson Section 1: Warrior of Light, Shadros Hiku Chapter 3: Return to Tam Tara Deepcroft

(Events take place after Patch 2.5 Before the Fall Part 1)

Shadros grumbled as he placed another new tile against the wall, mounting it into place. He had only now gotten around to fixing his room after his previous tantrum from the Nexus Weapon vision. It was obvious by the thick layer of dust coating most of the house, that Shadros had been mostly away since the incident. His work with Gerolt and Jalzahn had taken up the vast majority of his time since then but after so much work, the Zodiac Brave Excalibur and Aegis Shield were completed. Though the weapons were new, the fact that they were born of his previous Relic Weapon meant the earlier visions had not ceased and still occurred for him on a regular basis. Sometimes in the same order, sometimes different. He had gotten used to them by now and focused on trying to memorize certain details. The random nature of visions, however, made it difficult to do so.

Recent events with the Scions had complicated matters further for him beyond the visions. During an investigation of the Agrius’ Wreckage he had been stripped of the blessing of his crystals of light by the Wyrmking, Midgardsormr, for unknown reasons. Midgardsormr was now using the stolen aether to create a new form which he was tailing Shadros around for equally unknown reasons. Shadros grumbled. The last thing he needed was another ancient force tailing him around and the fact that he could say that so casually was more disturbing then the fact that it was actually happening. The loss of the blessing resulted in a battle with the Ascian, Nabriales who took advantage of the loss to attempt to steal the Tupsimati from the Scions. Though Shadros was able to fight off the Ascian, even without the blessing and was able to destroy the Ascian with the help of White Auracite. It only worked due to the sacrifice of Moenbryda much to Shadros’ own frustration. As a result of her death, the Scions were a bit low at the moment. Shadros had also received requests from Alisaie to complete their investigation of the Binding Coils, but he did not respond to her message nor to the messages of anyone else requesting his help. He was too focused on his current situation and only got involved when the Scions directly requested his help.

Shadros sighed with relief once he finished the repairs on the wall before making his way to the chair near his new bed and took the Aegis to polish the metallic blue surface of the shield. As he did so he would hear a knock on his door. Shadros simply called out, “Enter,” Shadros heard the door open and shut, he didn’t bother looking up from he was doing, “What do you want? I’m kind of busy here.”

A female voice spoke up in a rather flowery tone and it took him a moment to recognize the voice as Aya, “It has been some time, my lord. I hope I can be of service to you today.” Shadros merely grumbled at the voice, “It’s about time you finally showed up. What’s with the weird accent?” Shadros looked up to ask, “Where the hell have you bbbbeeeeennnn…” Shadros stretched out his last word and fell backward in the chair falling flat on his back in shock. Aya was no longer dressed in the merchant’s attire, but rather in skimpy looking black bikini that looked more like something a courtesan or escort would be wearing. Shadros stumbled to his feet blushing furiously stammering out his next sentence very quickly, “Woman! What the hell are you doing wandering around the Goblet dressed like that!?” Aya laughed returning to her previous tone of voice, “I needed to find you without raising suspicion. People around here don’t tend to questions ‘service girls’ especially in Ul’dah of all places. Privates matters and all that.” Shadros was flabbergasted at what he just heard, “The most subtle thing you could do… was to… pretend you were some kind of prostitute and wander casually into my house in board daylight where someone could clearly see you!?” Shadros’ volume escalated through the entire verbal thought process.

Aya said putting her hand together with a smile as if she were pleased with herself, “Seem like a flawless plan to me and besides the look on your face is completely worth it.” Shadros puts his hand to his face muttering through his fingers, “How in the hell are you still breathing in your line of work with that kind of thought process? Please tell me that no one saw you coming in here.” He was praying to the twelve that Una wasn’t in the Goblet at the time. She would never let this go if she had seen Aya enter his house like that.

Aya chuckled some putting her hands on her hips, “For your information I can be serious when it comes down to the nitty gritty, but I prefer to have a little fun where I can from time to time. You hard cases are always fun to mess with.”

Shadros began to wonder if he had made a mistake of hiring someone who didn’t ask for nearly as much gil as he expected. Aya was making up for the low price tag by screwing around with him and it was pissing him off. He threw one of the blankets from his bed at her, “Will you quit screwing around? For the sake of the Twelve put some damn clothes on. Last time I checked I hired you to gather information not to dress up like a whore.” Aya caught the blanket sneering at him, “My, my how little fun you are. You’d be surprised what you can learn dressed like this. People can be easily swayed by a pretty face,” Aya returned to the silly voice for the moment though in a mocking tone this time, “If it displeases you, my lord, perhaps you prefer a different look if that is your will.” Aya performed a few hand gestures that Shadros recognized for the ninja mudras for the water spell, Suiton. A pillar of water shot up around her and when it disappear she was in a new attire which Shadros recognized as the standard Ninja Garb used in the east.

Shadros noticed the water from her spell spreading out on his floor and grumbled, “Was that really necessary?” Aya stated clearly, returning to a more professional tone, “Well… no but it adds some flair to a boring job.” Aya crossed her arms continuing, “Your kind of hard guy to find you know that? I’ve been looking for you for days.” Shadros sat his chair back up clearly having had enough of her nonsense and stated plainly, “Will you just get to the point already?” Aya chuckled some, “I haven’t found this Wasp sect you are referring to but I did get some info on the group itself. They call themselves the Hymn Venom order. As far as I can tell, they’re not part of the main core of the Lambs of Dalamud but kind of a splinter group. They were exiled from the main line shortly before the calamity.” Shadros crossed his arms and looked at her, “Weird that a blood cult like the Dalamuds would have objection to any belief or one that exists that would find appalling.” Aya waved her hand somewhat dismissively, “Not really the case. The cult worships lesser moon, Dalamud, and the voidsent they summon tends to be more for fulfilling that worship. It seems the Hymn Venom order was less interested in the religious aspect of the cult and became more obsessed with the voidsent themselves. Their main goal is slowly becoming how to summon more and more powerful voidsent. As you can guess, this did not go well with the rest of dogmatic order who viewed their obsession as blasphemy. However, with the more powerful voidsent on their side it allowed them to protect themselves from the main group regardless of their smaller numbers. As such, they were left alone and exiled from the group. Apparently they continued their activity with the disguise of the Lambs however, basically allowing the main group to take the fall for most of their experiments.” Shadros stood up before asking, “So if you don’t know where they are then the trail has gone cold?” Shadros paused a moment before continuing, “Or is there something more to it?” Aya smugly put her on single hand on her hip, “Of course there is more to it. What do you take me for? I have a lead you might be interested in. At one time it is believed that the Hymn Venom order was involved in the affairs at Tam Tara Deepcroft prior Operation Archon. Apparently since the last incident in that area, the Wood Wailers have been investigating the area. According to my sources, some documents were left behind due to the restless spirits in the area that forced them to abandon the investigation. Rumor is those documents are still there.” Shadros listened quietly having been involved in that ‘recent incident’ at the Deepcroft, he wasn’t surprised that the Wood Wailers would quickly abandon that place. That was one adventure he would prefer not to remember. Aya shrugged, “That place is still crawling with monsters so I couldn’t investigate further on my own. I’m good but I have my limits. However, I figure that’s something someone like you would have no issue addressing.” Shadros took a deep breath and let out a sigh, “The Deepcroft is no place to play, but I just can’t bring any group to that place on this type of mission.” Shadros thought for a moment before saying, “I do know of a Dragoon that owes me a favor or two to accompany me. He’s a bit dense but he’ll keep his mouth shut as long as he’s paid well.” He thought for another moment and sighed coming to the obvious conclusion, “I suppose I should bring Una in on the matter, she is at least an adequate healer as a whole in addition of her skills as a Bard.” Aya grinned, “This should be amusing. I might as well tag along and see this through to the end.” Shadros stood up gesturing lightly at her hoping he didn’t regret this later, “Very well. We’ll meet up in three days’ time in front of the entrance to Deepcroft. Hopefully, I should be done with you once this is over with.” Aya rolled her eyes and said in a sarcastic tone, “My, my… my feelings are hurt.” Shadros turned his back on the Doman Ninja, “Just go, and try not to make yourself so damn obvious.” Aya would invoke a smoke screen and vanish filling the room with a faint smoky odor. Shadros just grumbled some about the mess before going to find a mop to clean up the water left by her Suiton spell. Shadros had only spoken to Una a few times since the previous incident and had been kind of stand offish with her as of late. After finishing cleaning up, he decided to go speak with her. After all, what’s the worst that could happen? She couldn’t possibly still be mad at him, could she?

“Ow! Ow! Una let go of my face!” Shadros had finally found Una at the market boards in the center of the Goblet but he couldn’t be anymore wrong about her not being mad. As soon as she was in range she pinched and pulled on Shadros’ right cheek stretching his face out as far as it would physically allow.

Una hissed in an irritable manner, “You avoid me for weeks and the first thing you do is come here to ask a favor? You have a lot of nerve you entitled arsehole!” She pinched his left cheek with her other hand also stretching it out simultaneously with the right making pain somewhat unbearable to continue to tolerate. As a Paladin, Shadros was used dealing with pain and normally would be unaffected by what Una did. However having his skin continually stretched in that matter was clearly getting on Shadros’ nerves. Having had enough Shadros grabbed Una’s cat like ears and pulled on them which made her screech, “Yeowch! Hands off you bastard!” Shadros growled, “You first, cat girl!” Shadros pulled on her ears some more. He had completely forgotten why he there for a moment once again allowing his interaction with Una devolving into pettiness and childish behavior.

Una squeaked as Miq’ote ears were pretty sensitive to be pulled on, “What a cheap shot. You call yourself the Warrior of Light and you resort to cheap shots!? Hero of Eorzea, my ass!” She proceeded to drive her leg in between his. Though his Paladin armor was fairly tough and the lower region was fairly well padded it was unavoidable that was going to hurt. Shadros slid down to a kneeling position with a horsed groan. Shadros could hear Una laughing at him now, which only made him angrier. In the moment, in act of vengeful immaturity, Shadros managed to get ahold of Una’s Tail and gave it a solid yank. For a Miq’ote, that was probably about as painful as what Una had just done to him. Una yelped loudly and gripped the base of where her tail met her body, hopping a few times in place before leaning against a fence post, whimpering some from the stinging pain. The two finally stopping moving and just stayed still for a few minutes while they worked out the pain. Shadros groaned beginning to push himself back up, “I think the pain has overwhelmed whatever anger I just had.” Una whimpered and obviously had little fight left for the moment, “Shadros, that’s fighting dirty, you creep!” Shadros groaned, “Look who’s talking Miss Low-blow.” The two would stay quiet for a while before Shadros grumbled, “Are you done being a brat now?” Una grumbled back, “If it will keep my tail in place then I will play along.” Una let go of her tail and crossed her arms leaning against the fence post, “So what do you want Shadros?” Shadros said, “I came to ask your assistance on a venture. I need to investigate the depths of Tam Tara Deepcroft again.

Una lurched back at the mention of that place, “W-Why would you want to go back to that place? Don’t you remember what happened the last time we agreed to go into that Hellhole?” She clearly remembered the Edda incident and Shadros was no more interested in reliving those events then she did.

Shadros crossed his arms, “Nothing like that. There is something I need to find that is rumored to be there. Believe me, it doesn’t fill me with any amount of joy but I don’t have any other option. This may be the only clue I have.” Una looked at Shadros, her expression of annoyance faded to confusion, “Clue to what exactly? Shadros, you’re beginning to worry me. You’re being even more secretive and withdrawn than usual. If you want my help you better start giving me some answers.” Shadros sighed some putting his hand on the hilt of the Excalibur, “I am trying to find answers to my past… before Ul’dah… before all of this.” Una ears tilted down a little when he said that, “You still don’t remember anything do you?” Una remember the day she met Shadros in the alleyways of Ul’dah. Though it was your average scrap against some arrogant punks, it was the way Shadros looked that was etched into her memory. Shadros eyes were completely empty and seemed void of everything. It was as if his mind had been wiped clean and he had been acting entirely on instinct. She had never seen a person in that condition. All Una knew is that something horrible likely had happened to him that day before she encountered him. “Are you sure really sure you want to remember? The past isn’t always what it’s cut out to be.” Shadros turned his gaze away some, “Certain factors have revealed partial information that I can no longer ignore. I need to find the truth one way or another. If you want to not go that’s fine.” Una shifted her body slightly. As much as she fought and argued with Shadros, she did know him extremely well and could tell when he was being sincere about an issue. Una wouldn’t admit it out loud but she had to stand by his side through this troubling time. “All right Shadros. Sounds annoying as hell but I’m in. What do you need me to do?” Shadros turned back to her, “I’ve hired a Doman Ninja by the name of Aya to assist with the venture. I thought I’d bring Drakkon in as well.” Una squinted her eyes, “Why Drakkon? I can’t stand the guy.” Shadros crossed his arms, “Because when it comes to battle he’ll get the job done and won’t ask too many questions. We just need someone to be to prepare to heal if something goes wrong down there. You’ve been practicing your skills as a White Mage have you not?” Una shrugged some, “Enough to keep people from dying I suppose. All right, I suppose I can put up with the situation…” She gave Shadros a bit of an aggressive glare, “But if he touches my ass again I’m stringing him up by his legs do you understand?” Shadros chuckled lightly, “Very well.” Shadros returned to his normal composure, “Regardless both Aya and Drakkon aren’t exactly people I would depend on in a pinch. It means enough for me to having you watching my back.” Una grumbled some and turned her head away as she blushed, “Will you not say such embarrassing things? I said I’m going to do it and I will do it!”

Shadros nods, “Very well then we will meet again in three days,” He gave her a small smile and said, “Thank you again Una.” Shadros would turn and leave her be. Una grumbled and blushed more, “When did he start saying nice things like that? Seriously! What did this guy do with the real Shadros?”

Three days would go by fairly quickly for Shadros. He arrived at the Deepcroft entrance at the arranged time. Appearing to be the first to arrive, Shadros leaned against the wall in front the entrance merely waiting and wondering if Aya would even remember she had something to do today. Not quite understanding how a shinobi could gather such difficult information while being as absent minded as she was or whether this whole persona she displayed was part of her act, he couldn’t really tell either way. Regardless since he was paying her he hoped she would be more reasonable.

“Yo! Shadros!” A voice called out snapping Shadros out of his daze. Shadros looks up to see Drakkon walking into the area. Drakkon was a rather scruffy looking Highlander that Shadros had worked with from time to time, though he didn’t particularly know much about the man outside of that. The darkly armored Ala Mhigian could be brash and his fondness for women tended to get him in trouble on multiple occasions. However, his skills with the lance could not be understated.

Shadros stood back up straight, “Good of you to make it.” He said rather plainly. Drakkon smacked Shadros’ shoulder in a heartily matter, “Good to see you. How are ya hardcase!?” Shadros grumbled some to himself, Drakkon tendency to be so cheerful and optimistic in the face of everything all the time always was something that pushed Shadros’ patience anytime he found himself working with the guy. Drakkon chuckled, “What no sarcasm or snarky remarks? You must be a good mood today.” Shadros groaned and shoves Drakkon off of his shoulder, “Ahh, back off already ever heard space, you blockhead.” Drakkon just laughed heartily at Shadros’ slight act of aggression. Shadros simply resisted the urge to find out how much of an impact the Aegis would have on the Highlander’s face, “Just be quiet for a bit will you, once the Doman woman gets here I assure you there will be enough idiocy to go around.”

Drakkon chuckled with a shrug of his shoulders, “Sounds fun, anyway, what we are doing here exactly? You hired me for this but didn’t really explain it.” Shadros would lean back against the wall again, “We are seeking out some documents that were left here by the Lambs of Dalumnd. According to Aya’s finding, these documents were left in the middle segment of the croft after to the Edda incident. Though the Deepcroft has mostly been quiet since then, the Twin Addler’s inability to return to the matter has allowed it to become repopulated with monsters again. It’s not quite as dangerous as the ones that were there prior though. Our main task is simply to clear a path to the documents and stay alive mostly.” Drakkon chuckled punching his left palm with his right fist, “Beating down some monsters to get ahold of cultist books? Can do. Though isn’t that kind of material usually outlawed?” Shadros simply waved his hand dismissively at his question as if to have Drakkon shush about that matter. Drakkon chuckled some, “You’re still hiding something though. These are no ordinary books are they?” Shadros said, “Unlikely to be anything of particular value to anyone other than myself.” Drakkon seem confused by that statement, if the books weren’t valuable for any purpose, why bother? Of course, Drakkon always found Shadros odd even among hard case adventurers. Drakkon decided to drop the case as he could tell Shadros had no intention of telling him the specific reason. Instead Drakkon smirked some and smacked him in the shoulder again.

“So this Aya chick you hired? Is the spy work all you hire her for or…” Drakkon start to say. Shadros glared at Drakkon, “One suggestion of any kind and you’ll be eating sheet metal, understood?”

Drakkon chuckled and backs off again, “Gees, Shadros can you ever have fun with anything? I mean all that time with Una and you haven’t even gotten a feel up on her? Bet that she would be a good…” Shadros glanced at him and interrupted, “I’d watch your tongue if I were you. Una is still pissed at you for the last time you tried to get a ‘feel up’ on her… I will not be responsible if she literally rips your tongue out of your mouth this time” Drakkon laughed, “I’d have almost forgotten about that. It took weeks for those scratch marks on my face to heal after she clawed it up good… totally worth it though. That Miqo’te is a fiery one.”

Shadros just grumbled to himself. It bothered him to listen to Drakkon talk about Una like that but he just let it go, “I do not have time for such nonsense…”

Aya’s voice and giggle emerged from the darkness, “That’s probably a good thing. Someone as stiff as you would never lighten up enough to get any attention from a woman anyway.” Aya dropped in from the ceiling. Shadros didn’t know where exactly she came from or how she did that but he did not care to ask. Drakkon glanced up and down the Ninja’s body before commenting, “Very nice.” Shadros only groaned knowing well enough that it wasn’t her skill that Drakkon was admiring, rather the tight fitted and curve revealing ninja outfit that Aya was wearing. Shadros never really understood why the Eastern Ninja garb for men of literally covered everything while the female version clearly designed to show cleavage and to display the upper part of their legs.

Aya merely winked at Highlander rather mischievously, “Well, at least someone here recognizes excellence when he sees it.” The whole thing made Shadros want to hurl frankly. He simply wished for Una to arrive soon before the two drove him crazy. It did help to remind him why he and Una had partnered for as long as they had. For all their bickering and fighting they at least worked well together when things got serious.

Una would arrive on the scene dressed in the standard white robes with red diamonds patterns that was common for White Mages of Eorzea as well as the wooden staff she used as her weapon when she healing, “Hey Shadros, I’m here.” She moved her way towards the group. Una wasn’t used to moving in the robes so she was a bit slower than normal. Shadros seemed a bit confused as Una normally didn’t wear such long robes as she usually preferred lighter clothes for mobility sake. In fact it was rare for Una to wear anything covered all of her skin period. Drakkon grinned and approached Una from behind, “Well hello there, Kitten. Those robes really don’t suit you well.” Una lurched back some growling, “One wrong move Drakkon and I’m bashing your skull in!” Drakkon put his hands up in surrender, “Chill the claws there, Kitten. Is that anyway to greet a friend?” Una groaned and her ears lowered slightly, “Shadros, do we really have to do this?”

Shadros just said, “We will try to get this over with quickly. All right?” Una would nod and try to move forward accidently tripping on an unstable tile. Shadros managed to catch her and stop her from falling, “Una, are all right?” He asked plainly. Una grumbled, “I hate these robes!” She blushed and moved away from Shadros quickly mostly to the hide the fact that she was blushing. Shadros simply shrugged and moved along with her

Aya put a finger to her chin, “Are these two always this thick?” Drakkon chuckled, “Only for as long as I’ve known them.” The two would follow them forward. The four would make their way into the Deepcroft entrance, coming out to the dimly lit tunnels of the Deepcroft. Even though the vile air surrounding the Deepcroft has declined since the Edda incident, there was still a foulness to the air that still made Shadros’ stomach turn. Shadros didn’t have time to think about it further as he suddenly forced to raise his shield to deflect the sting of a Diremite before swiping at the vilekin with his sword. Drakkon jump upward and skewered the Diremite’s head with his lance at once it was away from Shadros.

“Didn’t take long to draw attention did it?” Drakkon chuckled.

Shadros said, “I’m pretty sure that comes with the title…” The four would proceed down the path, dispatching the vilekin that stood in their way, though they would be trouble for any standard adventurer against this experienced group they were of little concern. Shadros would stopped at the edge of one of the paths that looks like it had been destroyed by falling rocks since the last time he had been here.

“Looks like this place is even more decrepit then it was before.” Shadros commented.

Una frowned, “The voidsend that were here before did a number on this place…”

Drakkon looks over the edge some, “Eh… I think I could jump that chasm.” Shadros groaned, “Don’t be an idiot even if you could it won’t do any good for you to run off on your own. If I recall right there are hallways that go between these areas,” Shadros moved to one of the boarded off room kicking through to reveal the path ahead. “We should be able to navigate to the next section from here but it’s likely unstable so we’ll need to be careful.” They would make their way slowly into the tunnel, cautiously walking down the path. However, as they made their way Aya would stop for a moment.

“Do you guys smell sulfur?” Aya asked.

Drakkon stopped tilting his head slightly to side, “You know it does it does smell familiar.” Shadros groaned some recognizing it immediately. Angling his head upward slowly, his eyes slid to gaze at a glowing Bomb that was jammed between some of the rocks in the ceiling. Though it was glowing faintly it appeared to be active enough, “You’ve got to be kidding me.” The bomb gave an angry look at the four but didn’t seem angry enough to invoke a self-destruct, “We need to move quietly and quickly.” Drakkon chuckled some, “That thing is so small. What’s it going to do puff out a bit of smoke?” He would proceed to prod the bomb with the flat end of his lance a couple of time. The bomb glowed more brightly and began to grow larger cracking the stone around it. It was growing far larger than it should have been able to. Aya began to run, “Good time to get out of here!” Shadros also began to run, “God damnit, Drakkon!” They would rush through the hallway as the bomb exploded causing the tunnel to start collapsing around them. Shadros grabbed Una’s arm as they rush back out into the hallway of the Deepcroft, quickly diving off to side as a large amount of debris blew out from the corridor they just came out of. Drakkon sat back up rubbing his head looking at the three a bit sheepishly, “Uh… my bad?” Una noticed Shadros was holding onto her. She quickly broke free from his grasp in a slightly panicked manner wondering what was wrong with her today. To work out her frustration, Una got up from where was and proceeded to whack Drakkon over the head with her staff, “Anymore stunts like that and your personally going to find out how deep that chasm goes, head first!”

Drakkon groaned rubbing his head, “Kitten has such claws.”

Shadros simply stood back up glancing ahead, “There will be time for that later, we have company. Ready yourselves!” Several dozen vilekin that were disturbed by the resulting explosion descended upon the group. Aya screamed, “This is absolutely disgusting!”

Shadros groaned, “You decided to act like a normal women now of all times? Stop freaking out and fight!” Shadros said as he cleaved through a large beetle. The group would fight off the vilekin but they seemed to be coming out of the cracks in the walls faster than they could be slain. Shadros shouted, “We need to get out of this confine space! Shield your eyes! Flash!” Shadros raised his sword chanting a moment before the area was engulfed in white light, “Run!” The group would begin to move reaching the central area on a lower floor but the vilekin were still coming. Shadros growled looking around before spotting a loose rock formation above the pathway, “Una! The rock formation!”

Una looked in the direction Shadros was and stated, “Got it!” Una chanted sending a large stone in the direction of the loose rocks causing them to break loose and block the entrance to the path trapping the Vilekin inside.

Drakkon groaned some, “Well that was something…”

Aya grumbled, “Gross, I’ve got Vilekin guts on my uniform.”

Shadros sighed, “Just keep it together for right now. We’re not done yet.” Shadros recognized the area where the cultists had gathered during his first trip into the area. However, this time there were no Voidsent to greet them and no light to extinguish rather there were a stack of crates and a Fallen Orb, a violet spherical construct one he recognized both from Haukke Manor and Amdapor Keep. Two others places impacted by the Voidsend in the past. Aya eyed the crates, forgetting her vilekin guts crisis for the moment, “Well, all and all it could have been worse. Those has to be the crates the Woods Wailers had gathered before they were forced to abandon the place. We’ve found them!”

Una sighed with relief, “Then let’s get what Shadros came for and get out of this place.” Shadros would nod and began to approach the crates but the familiar voice of Midgardsormr suddenly sounding in his mind made him slow, “Face thy reality, mortal.” Shadros stopped as the inactive Fallen Orb suddenly sprung to life emitting an extremely bright violet light and it began to hover into the air. Drakkon shielded his eyes, “What the hell is that? Don’t tell me there are voidsent coming?” Una glanced at the ground after a few moments, “S-Shadros! What’s with your shadow?” Shadros turned his gaze as his shadow was moving and twisting very strangely and suddenly split in two very different looking shadows, his own and what appeared to be another person. His eyes widen as the Excalibur seemed to be acting strangely to this as well. A few of the visions from Excalibur struck him for a moment, disorienting him from what was going on. Drakkon shouted, “Shadros! Heads up!” A shadowy hand suddenly burst from the orb lunging itself towards Shadros. He quickly snapped out of his daze raised the Aegis to defend himself but the hand was not aiming for him. It went past him off to the side and entered the unknown shadow on the ground. The unknown shadow would fade away before the shadowy hand returned to the Fallen Orb. The orb began grow brighter. Within the light the figure of a woman would take shape and step forward. Not all different from many of the five races, the facial features of the woman were cloaked in darkness. The apparent white horns that flowed straight behind her head were the only feature unable to be concealed by the darkness. A faint blue light where her eyes were located were all that could be seen within the shadows. The shadowed figure was geared in a black variation of the Gallant gear that Shadros was currently wearing down to the circlet he wore on his head. Drakkon was, oddly enough, speechless for a moment before spitting out rapidly, “What the hell is that thing!? I’ve never seen a Voidsent or Ashkin that looked like that before.” The being suddenly held out her hands to her sides and shadows flowed outward from her arms like fire and formed the shape of the Excalibur and Aegis Shield Shadros used but dyed black. Shadros seem stunned at the sight. Though he could not see the figure’s face, the resemblance to the one in his dreams and visions was undeniable. “… You…”

Aya snapped Shadros out of his daze, “Whatever it is it doesn’t want us proceeding, here it comes!” The figure got her weapons into position and charged at the group. Shadros snapped to attention drawing his weapon to counter the shadow. When Shadros tried to strike she moved out of the way. The shadow seemed to be matching every move he was making as if she could read all of his thoughts. Aya and Drakkon moved in as well. Drakkon manage to get behind her and tried to thrust his lance through her back. When Drakkon made contact the lance went no further. Shadros was suddenly surrounded by a strange dark energy and suddenly felt like he received an electric shock in the exact same location that Drakkon struck the shade. Much to Drakkon confusion as the shadow didn’t even flinch. Aya threw a Shuriken into the shadow’s shoulder. Shadros shouted out as the energy zapped him again. “Gaugh!!!” Shadros snapped. The shadow would turn back smacking Drakkon with a Shield Bash while he was surprised by the situation. Drakkon growled stumbling back a bit, “What’s in the seven hells is going on? Nothing is hurting this thing!”

Una shouted at the two, “Stop attacking, you idiots! All your damage is just being redirected to Shadros!”

Aya winced, “Whoops, if physical attacks don’t work then maybe!” She quickly invoke a couple of hand signs, “Raiton!” A bolt of lightning would strike down on the shadow but once again Shadros was the one who was shocked and shouted out as a result. Aya put her hand to her mouth, “Oops, that’s wasn’t what I was trying to do.” Una quickly managed to get a healing spell off on Shadros allow him to snap out of it to once again block the shadow’s attacks. Shadros growled some, he had no explanation for why he was taking the attacks done to her but he knew something had to be causing it. Shadros turned his gaze for a moment notice the orb was still glowing. Hovering in the area above the fight and teleporting around every few moments. He shouted to Aya and Drakkon, “It’s that orb! The orb has to be powering this apparition. We’re attacking the wrong target” He would block another attack from the shadow. “Leave the shadow to me! Take out that orb!” The shadow would jump upward and slam back down to the ground releasing random pillars of light around her, pushing them all away. The shadow would once again move in on Shadros forcing him to parry another slash from the shadow.

Aya acknowledged Shadros’ words, “Leave it to us! Una, we’ll be fine, just make sure Shadros stays on his feet!” Una shouted between spell casts, “You don’t need to tell me that!”

Drakkon would move to the side trying to thrust at the orb but it move out of the way of the attack. It was moving too fast for him to properly register. Aya tried to strike from a distance with more shurikens but it did the same thing. Aya growled to herself, “This is annoying no matter how fast I attack it moves out of the way.” Drakkon glanced at the orb, “You’re a Ninja aren’t you? Don’t you have a few tricks up those tightly laced sleeves of yours?” Aya blinked a few times thinking for a moment, “Tightly laced… trick… binding, that’s it, that might just work!” She formed her hand signs for Ten and Jin. She released the binding ice around the orb holding it still. Drakkon would take the hint and quickly rush forward invoking all of his power before leaping up and diving down on the confined orb, his lance shattering the orb to pieces. The shadow stumbles back some before Shadros spun around thrusting his weapon into the shade’s torso. The shadow’s form would begin to crack. As it did, there was a female voice that spoke when Shadros was closed enough to the figure, “Do not seek me anymore Shadros, if you find me, it will cost you everything.” The shadow reached up and touched Shadros’ cheek for a moment before falling and bursting into violet light. The split shadow appeared for a moment behind Shadros again before fusing into one again. Shadros was taken aback by the shadow’s words frozen in place.

Una quickly moved to Shadros’ side, “Shadros, are you okay? What just happened?” Shadros blinked a few times looking forward some as if something just popped into his mind, “… Kari…?” Una looked perplexed, “Kari? What’s a Kari?”

Aya and Drakkon returned the weapons to their proper place, gesturing in victory as they felt their mission was a success. Shadros just closed his eyes taking a deep breath. He didn’t feel like celebrating. They glance ahead as an Aetheral exit appeared where the shadow was much like it did with other previous missions.

Una looked him beginning to realize that Kari wasn’t a thing but rather a person, “Shadros, who is Kari?” She asked with a tone of demand in her voice.

Shadros didn’t answer her question rather he would move over to the crate opening it up. Digging through the contents he pulled out a book with the same Wasp emblem he had been looking for.

“This is what I needed, we’re done here.” Shadros simply stated before going into the exit with Aya and Drakkon following behind. Una started to make her way to the exit as well, she paused and looked towards the spot where the shadow had been moments ago.

“Who’s Kari? Why does Shadros seem so… sad?” Una’s ears flattened some as she exited as well.

When they appeared back at the entrance of the Deepcroft, Shadros paid Drakkon and Aya what he promised.

Aya chuckled, “Wonderful doing business with you, good sir. It’s been fun but I think I’ve had enough of death cults, dark caves, and vilekin guts to last me awhile.” Drakkon chuckled some approaching Aya, “Well, it was entertaining to work with someone like you, perhaps you’d like to work with me a bit more often?” Aya smirked at Drakkon, “If you retain my interest maybe, but for now you don’t therefore…” Aya smirked and a burst of smoke surrounded her causing Drakkon to cough some as Aya was now gone. Drakkon chuckled some not seeming too discouraged, “Denied. I suppose I will just need to try harder the next time I see you.” Drakkon turned noticing Shadros and Una hadn’t said a word since they exited the cave. There was something that bothered Drakkon though, “Shadros, your acting odd it’s not like you to hesitate when there is an enemy in front of you. Do you know what that thing we fought was?” Drakkon asked.

Shadros shook his head, “Maybe… maybe not. I’m not entirely sure at this point.”

Una gave Shadros a scowl, “For not being sure you obviously knew her name…”

Shadros looked at Una in an annoyed fashion, “I stated a name. I don’t know if the name is accurate or has any actual meaning. It might just be a figment of my imagination for all I know.” Una frowned some putting a hand to her chest for a moment lowering her head, “Please Shadros… please stop pursuing this. I have a bad feeling about this whole thing.” Shadros closed his eyes, “I can’t do that Una.” Una growled some, “Why not? Why are you dwelling some much of the past instead of your future? Why are you such an… Argh!” Una paused and growled as if she wanted to say something else but then spat out, “You know what fine, do whatever you want but don’t ask me to help you with this mess again.” Shadros watched as Una suddenly began to rush away and out of the Deepcroft. Shadros expected her to hit him or react violently but instead she just left. Shadros wondered what was going on with her.

Drakkon observed the situation, “You two are acting stranger than usual. Shadros, what are you caught in the middle of?” Shadros simply began to walk away but he did state as he left, “That I don’t know… hopefully this,” He held up the book, “Will help me find out.” Shadros thought back to the words the shadow had said before he returned to Goblet to study the documents. Section 1 - Chapter 2: Into the Nexus of Madness Final Fantasy XIV: Azure and Crimson Complete

Section 1 - Chapter 4: Truth Revealed, Identity Echoes

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hopeaterart · 1 year

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...hoo boy. Lots of new and possibly obscure names. Okay, in order: who are Drako, Leatherhead, Slash, Mondo Gecko, Jennika, Koya, Tigerclaw, and Kitsune?

LET'S GOOO

Drako is a minor antagonist in TMNT 2003, in the Battle Nexus arc to boot. Here, he basically just fills the role of the guy you can root for Leo to beat, since he's a jackass and a cheater. There's some implication he might've poisoned Leo before his fight with Shredder.

Leatherhead is a recurring ally of the Turtles, often a Mutant Alligator. Not sure if I want him to be a mutant or a yokai here, but he becomes a friend after the Battle Nexus even if he ends up joining Slash's group.

Slash is arguably the first Fifth Ninja Turtle. Here, he's a tortoise yokai who wants to prove his worth as a warrior and defender of the Hidden City, and he and the Turtles get a bit of a rivalry after the Battle Nexus.

Mondo Gecko (as far as I'm aware) is a minor character in TMNT 2012 who's a fruend of the Turtles. Here, he entered the Battle Nexus in order to get a shot at the cash price, and later joins Slash's group.

Jennika is the fifth Turtle in the IDW comics! Here, she's a frog Yokai who gets recruited by the Foot, and she joins Slash's group to spy on the city. However, she ends up having a change of heart and quits.

Koya is a Foot Member in the IDW comics, and a mutant falcon. Here, she's a bird Yokai who gets recruited by the Foot, and she often accompanies Karai as a scout.

Tigerclaw is a Foot Member and mutant Tiger. Here, he's a mutant who willingly mutated himself as well as Shredder's enforcer. He either gets un-mutated or killed by Ronin for one too attempts on his brothers' lives, I haven't decided yet.

Kitsune is a Foot Member in the IDW comics, a sorceress and consort of the Shredder. Here, she's a fox yokaivspy from Draxum he sent to keep an eye on the Foot, and she's able to weasel her way into the Foot's inner council. She tried to seduce Higa, but he's only ever had eyes for Saki.

#answer #tmnt #TMNT:FHC

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nemesis-nexus · 5 years

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***ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL!***

Veteran's Day Sermon

Hail Enki Great Dragon and God of the Sweet Water, HEAR US! On this day we honor those who put their well-being aside and voluntarily risked it all to fight on behalf of millions of people they don't know and will never meet!

The kind of sacrifice that is made by our soldiers is not anything to ever take lightly; they not only put their own lives at risk, they also leave their families behind to worry about them for the duration of their tour. This not only deserves acknowledgement, it deserves the respect of EVERY SINGLE PERSON regardless of whether they "agree with the war" or not!

When a soldier enlists, no matter which branch of the military they join, they are saying "tonight you can sleep easy, no one is going to hurt you if I have anything to say about it!" They say this not only to their own families and friends, they say it to the person working the checkout at the supermarket, the school teacher trying educate the children, the pump jocky's and grease monkey's keeping people on the road, but that's not all... They are also saying to those protesting the war that even they will live to see another day because our soldiers are willing to fight, and die, for their right to protest. That kind of dedication is rare especially when people act not only ungrateful but resentful towards those who are willing to put themselves in harms way so that they don't have to!

Father please watch over our troops wherever they are stationed, be it at home or abroad, help them to keep it together despite how much strain they may be under so that they are able to maintain order in their spirits as well as within the ranks! Help them to stay alert and aware of their surroundings so that nothing goes unnoticed! Help them maintain a high morale so they don't lose themselves to the rigors of the combat zone! Help them to keep marching forward until such time as they come marching home!

Enki, you who put your own neck on the line to come to our defense when the Grand Council rendered its decision, please also help the families of enlisted soldiers to come to terms with the decision that their loved ones have made! It is not selfish for any family or friend to become upset at the idea that their loved one will be shipped off to a war zone, however, they need to respect the choice that was made! Help those who have family and friends actively deployed to maintain a sense of hope and courage, especially those with young children, so that they can in turn give their deployed loved ones a boost when they it!

They say that war is hell and they're right it is, not only are you subject to horrific events and sites on a daily basis but you also come face to face with their own mortality. Those who survive the conflict oftentimes return home to hostility from those that they selflessly protected because those people did not support the war. They also come home to find that their benefits and income are non-existent, many find themselves on the street and even more find themselves waiting for months and sometimes years just to see a doctor. One absolutely unacceptable and unforgivable reality is that our government treats are returning soldiers as though they are expendable and would have been better off had they been killed overseas! The proof of this is in the fact that several VA hospitals are dilapidated and infested and also that several returning soldiers died just waiting to be seen at all!

No one who willingly put their own life on the line to protect an entire nation from the devastation of war on its own soil deserves to be treated like a discardable pawn on a chessboard! No one who voluntarily travels to foreign lands with the intention of helping the citizens of those countries learn to defend themselves against their enemies deserves to be ignored by the government that sent them there! No one who sacrifices everything including their own peace of mind deserves to end up on the streets reliving the nightmares in their heads because they are not given the psychiatric attention they need to be able to deal with what they've been through!

Father we know that because we were given free will to do whatever we want that we can't expect you to intervene on any one sides behalf, if people want to start these wars then people need to fight these wars and also figure out how to deal with the aftermath of these wars. You are not responsible for the decisions or the actions of the human race, both are entirely at our discretion and as such both are nobody's responsibility but our own!

The one thing that we have going for us as a race is that when push comes to shove that many of us will band together even if we had issues with each other in the past! We do this because humans are social creatures even if we are not always social towards each other, we do it as a matter of survival not only for ourselves but for those we care about as well! There are those who allow their petty differences to prevent them from aiding those that need it, they are the ones who are soldiers fight and die for so that they can be that selfish and cruel! Thankfully these self-centered dolts are few and far between so they have a tendency to be the loudest group because they're so full of their own shit that everybody else just has to hear about it! When they start getting noisy the rest of us just need to be noisier, let them know that even if we don't agree with the war that we still have to support our troops because they did take it upon themselves to enlist so the self-righteous jackasses didn't have to!

So the next time you see someone on the street with a sign that says that they are a veteran, don't just throw a couple bucks at them and wish them the best, instead try to help them to become gainfully employed or even find volunteer opportunities! Many of our veterans want to work, most of them do not want to be on public assistance, there is something to be said about maintaining a level of dignity! One of the most frustrating things for all of our veterans is trying to live with the war that is still raging in their heads!

PTSD is a very real and very debilitating psychological condition that oftentimes impedes our veterans from being able to fully return to civilian life because with the more severe cases it does not take much to trigger it: for example the slamming of a car door can cause them to duck for and fireworks on the 4th of July brings back memories of being constant hail of bullets which is why many veterans cannot attend fireworks displays because it is too traumatizing for them! These are only two examples of the kinds of issues our veterans deal with on a day to day basis and it's compounded when our government does not afford them access to any kind of medical attention! Our veterans deserve better than this!

Father we know that you are always with them from the day that they enlist until the day that their deployment ends to guide and watch over them; we ask that when it comes time for them to march off into the sunset, no matter whether it is on the battlefield or after they return stateside, that you spread your wings and give them the hero's welcome home! Where we may fail in the human world when it comes to taking care of our soldiers, please rise to the occasion as you always do and let them once again know the peace and tranquility that was stolen from them during their deployment! AVÉ NINGIZHEDA!

"Warrior's Code

I will gather my strength and I will gather my will, to face the enemy in any battle!

I will not run and I will not hide, I will march with my unit side by side!

I will keep in my heart my friends and family, their support helps me through this bloody calamity!

As I sit under the sky appreciating the sound of silence, I know all too well it may suddenly erupt in violence!

I count the stars and my mind starts to drift, recalling family and friends life's most precious gift!

I do what I do not for fortune or fame, but so that the lives of others will remain the same!

To keep my countrymen free from pain, anguish and despair is the reason I chose to be here!

I put on the Kevlar then pick up my gun and I wonder if tomorrow will be the last time I see the sun!

I am grateful for my sisters and brothers in arms, we have each others six and we defend one another from harm!

A promise was made to defend our country from all enemies domestic and foreign and that promise will be kept no matter how severe the situation we are in!

In our bases, on our tanks and on our shoulders that flag will always wave symbolizing the land of the free and the home of the brave!

Though we may be far from our friends and family, we know in our hearts we are one even though we are many!

One day is not enough to acknowledge those who fought and continue to fight for our freedom, remember to always show respect and thank a Vet every time you see them!"

ZI ANA KANPA! ZI KIA KANPA!

MAY THE DEAD RISE AND SMELL THE INCENSE!

Etiamsi MULTA Et Nos UNUM Sumus Nos Sto Validus Ut Nos Sto Una!

Semper Veritas, Semper Fideles, In NINGIZHEDA Nomen Nos Fides! AVE NINGIZHEDA!

(We Are ONE Even Though We Are MANY And We Stand STRONGEST When We Stand TOGETHER!

Always TRUTHFUL, Always FAITHFUL, In NINGIZHEDA'S Name We Trust! HAIL NINGIZHEDA!)

AVÉ URURU! AVÉ ENKI/EA!

AVÉ NINGIZHEDA! AVÉ NINHURSAG!

AVÉ ININNI! AVÉ DIMUZI!

AVÉ IGGIGI! AVÉ ANUNNA!

AVÉ DRACONIS! HAIL THE GREAT SERPENT!

HPS Meg "Nemesis Nexus" Prentiss

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swipestream · 6 years

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New Release Roundup, 22 September 2018: Science Fiction

Three best-selling space operas return in this week’s roundup of the newest releases in science fiction.

Agents of Mars (Starship’s Mage: Red Falcon #3) – Glynn Stewart

Captain David Rice and the crew of Red Falcon have spent two years infiltrating the arms smuggling underworld of the Protectorate of the Mage-King of Mars. When the co-opted rebellion on Ardennes reveals a supply chain of weapons intended to fight Mars, this makes them the perfect team to investigate.

His new mission brings him across old friends and old enemies alike, but as his suspects start turning up dead, David realizes he isn’t the only one following the loose ends.

As shadowy enemies move to position themselves for civil war, Red Falcon’s crew must chase an ever-shrinking set of clues. If they succeed, they might just buy the Protectorate peace for their lifetime.

But if they fail…

By Right of Arms (Terra Rising #1) – J. T. Buckley

The Confederated Nations of Terra receive a mysterious distress signal from Earth’s closest celestial neighbor, Alpha Centauri. Captain Aaron Richardson and the crew of the TNS Intrepid are shocked and horrified by what they find. What they discover launches them into a new universe of political and military intrigue.

Using ancient legends, they forge Earth’s position in the Principean Empire and discover the secrets of Earth’s distant past. Thwarted at every turn by pirates, they must fight a race of aliens who are intent on killing all humans and destroying the Earth. Unable to do it alone, they must seek assistance of new allies to save their home.

Empire Dawn (Road to Empire #1) – Dietmar Arthur Wehr

The grand experiment of a democratic Commonwealth of Star Nations has failed. With colony after colony leaving the Commonwealth, Earth finds itself in desperate straits as ecological disaster and mass starvation looms in the near future. The collapse of the Commonwealth means there’s now a power vacuum but no shortage of ruthless egos looking to fill that vacuum.

Will it be the Republic of Corona, the most prosperous and populous colony world, or a resurgent Earth under a messianic leader or perhaps a power-hungry interstellar corporation? With stakes this high, political intrigue, backstabbing and betrayal are par for the course.

Infinite Exodus (Infinite Exodus #1) – N. R. Whitaker

Locked inside an unreleased game awaits a world of untapped possibility–and consequences.

Gerard is a would-be scientist, not a soldier, but his father is nowhere near fit for the open-ended rescue mission into the Parallel, a hyperrealistic VR world that was stolen for government applications from genius game developer Ned Dixon. As a fan of Dixon’s immersive and often twisted worlds, Gerard thinks he knows what he’s getting himself into by taking his father’s place, but within the Parallel awaits an infinite number of sinister surprises.

The mission is simple: Play through the deadly game’s storyline to save the living researchers trapped within. Not so simple? Dealing with a snarky A.I. who knows Gerard doesn’t belong and fending off the monstrous angels Dixon programmed to make the crew’s job as difficult as possible.

Initiate (The Animus #1) – Joshua Anderle and Michael Anderle

It was just one fight, but it changed Kaiden Jericho’s life forever.

He was in a gang but was trying to change his future when a board member of the elite advanced academy NEXUS made a snap decision and offered him a chance. Then fate, or an unbalanced genius, offered him another.

The Nexus Academy is for the elite trainees from Earth, and now trials from our alien allies, as they teach the future generation how to fight, lead, hack, spy, and many other talents and tactics.

Hired by companies, governments and NGOs, these graduates work to pay off the massive debt their training at the academy accumulates. You don’t become the best of the best by staying alive. With the Animus, you are closer to perfection with each death you suffer.

Kaiden Jericho would rather skip the death part, thank you very much.

Invasion (Blood on the Stars #9) – Jay Allan

War…like none that has come before.

The Hegemony has launched the invasion Tyler Barron and his Confederation comrades have feared, and all the Rim is ablaze with the fires of war and destruction.

The Hegemony has brought its vast fleets, its advanced technology, and its endless legions of grim cyborg warriors to impose its system of rigid genetic hierarchy over all humanity on the Rim.

The Confederation fleet is outnumbered and outmatched, but they will fight nevertheless, struggling and dying to hold back the onslaught any way they can, even as the Marines they leave behind dig in and prepare to defend worlds swallowed up by the advancing battle lines.

Barron and his people will fight, they will fight like demons unleashed, and Jake ‘Raptor’ Stockton will lead his wings of strikefighters in one desperate attack after another into the teeth of the enemy armada, but time is running out…even as the enemy pushes relentlessly toward the Confederation’s Core and final victory.

The Last Strike (The Last War #5) – Peter Bostrom

His son is dead. His ship is dead. His career is dead.

But Spectre is very much alive. And with his plans of galactic domination laid bare, Captain James Mattis must gather what allies he can to stop him.

Admiral Pippa Spears and the HMS Caernarvon make a mysterious discovery in the wreckage of the USS Stennis, one that could change the outcome of the war. And in the uproar after the assassination of the American President she and Captain Mattis race across the galaxy after the suspected shooter, knowing full well the murder is another of Spectre’s schemes to throw them off guard while he carries out his sinister plans.

Plans that Mattis and Spears are close to unraveling.

The cost of failure is unthinkable: a destroyed Earth and an unstoppable immortal foe.

The Lazarus Protocol (SynCorp Saga #1) – David Bruns and Chris Pourteau

A climate in crisis. A world on the brink. And we did it to ourselves.

After centuries of exploitation, Mother Nature is mad as hell. Flooded coastlines drive refugees from their homes. Dust storms bury cities. New species disappear every day. And humanity is next…

While some look off-planet for answers, the American President, in an election year gamble, recruits a brilliant billionaire inventor for the most important scientific undertaking since the Manhattan Project: reversing climate change by geo-engineering Earth’s atmosphere. But the New Earth Order, a mysterious cabal of reactionary activists, has another agenda.

Lemuria – John Triptych

Nick Dirkse is a workaholic software developer, and he’s desperate to save his crumbling marriage and reconnect with his neglected children. So he takes them on what promises to be the ultimate vacation in a tropical paradise.

The island, newly built off the southwest coast of India, is named for the mythical land of Lemuria. And it’s a world-class private resort to indulge the modern-day rich and famous.

But this seemingly luxurious wonderland hides a terrible secret, a nightmare so real and terrifying it will test the outer limits of Nick’s courage and resolve if he is to save the ones he loves.

Reclamation (Legacy War #6) – John Walker

Humanity has unlocked another secret of the Orbs but it has put them on a collision course with their enemy, the terrorist group known as the Tol’An. As they race to collect another of the powerful devices, they must face another of their enemies, the cold corporate mercenaries known as the Kalrawv Group. Hidden away on an illegal mining facility, their purpose there can only mean one thing: they are trying to take the Orb for themselves.

But Earth has an ally in the Pahxin people and the battleship Stalwart is committed to assisting with the operation. As the two ships depart Earth, they head out to raid a planet which is known for destructive weather patterns. The unstable system holds the powerful secret from a long dead civilization, one which must be collected before either of the nefarious groups get their hands on it.

Tempest (Legend of the Galactic Heroes #7) – Yoshiki Tanaka

Reinhard, under his Golden Lion banner, is setting out to bend history and the universe to his will. Meanwhile, with no flag of their own to raise, Yang and his compatriots have escaped the murderous hands of the Free Planets Alliance’s government and dubbed themselves the “Irregulars.” Yang receives word that an Imperial fleet is closing in on the capital of Heinessen, and in a daring move, recaptures Iserlohn Fortress. In the meantime, Reinhard’s invasion of the Free Planets Alliance proceeds steadily apace. Standing in the path of the Imperial fleet is a fleet of FPA Navy vessels commanded by the elderly Admiral Bucock.

An old lion roars out a life-or-death challenge, and a young lion answers it—the final battle of the Free Planets Alliance now begins!

The Theos (The Survivors #5) – Nathan Hystad

“The Theos await you. Only then will we stop the Unwinding.”

Some secrets prefer to stay buried.

When Dean’s closest ally is kidnapped by an ancient race, his grief threatens to turn to madness. With the support of his friends, he embarks on a mission to get his loved one back, and stop the eventual destruction of the known Universe.

But Dean can’t do it without solving an age-old mystery. He must find the real Theos this time, and he’ll stop at nothing to accomplish that.

Join the Survivors as they battle for every race in existence.

New Release Roundup, 22 September 2018: Science Fiction published first on https://medium.com/@ReloadedPCGames

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yuican48 · 7 years

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Shin Ultraman Retsuden quick summary 3

OP: Stuff I'm satisfied is new includes Ginga, Ultraman, Taro, Gaia, and maybe Agul. Unsure if there was for Zero. End shot is Ginga solo. 40: The episode starts with Ginga talking about the Dark Spark War and Hikaru, before mentioning a scroll depicting the battle was within the shrine. Hikaru opens said scroll. By it reacting with the Ginga Spark, Hikaru is able to touch to points on the scroll, seeing events narrated by Ginga. Ultraman shows him battling Kemura, Ganda shows its battle with Miclas and Seven, Agira shows itself, Miclas and Windam battling Dorako, Bemstar and Salamandora. Tiga shows the Super 8 Brothers battling Giga Chimaera. Hikaru finds more of the scroll, which shows Man, Seven, Zoffy, Jack, Ace, Taro, Mebius, Leo, 80, Father and Mother, King, Tiga, Dyna, Gaia, Cosmos, Nexus, Max, Zero and Ginga himself. 41-43: Using the image of Gaia and Agul in the scroll, Hikaru witnesses the finale of Gaia. 44: A third section to the scroll depicts the Rush Hunters battling the Plasma Kaiju in the Plasma Galaxy. Red King Hunting, Neronga Hunting and Dino-Tank Hunting are shown in full. 45: The scroll imparts knowledge of Jeronimon's battle with Ultraman. 46-47: After Zero introduces us to the Mighty Base and receives a message sending him to Planet Fanegon, Ultra Zero Fight 2 plays out in completeness. New to this broadcast is seeing the Darkness Five (Tyrant but no Jathar) gathered together along with the living Belial, although we had seen them like this in past Retsuden episodes, and a reveal that Jathar survived, probably leading to his appearance in episode 104. 48: Following on from, but obviously sometime after, Ultra Zero Fight 2, Surai suggests to Virainius, Glocken and Deathgorg that certain warriors from the Plasma Galaxy, the Rush Hunters, would be good soldiers for the Belial Army. To teach the rest about them, Antlar Hunting is shown in full. After, they examine the second Magma Seijin's battle with Leo and Guts Seijin's battle with Seven, given where Zero's techniques come from. 49: Following on from the previous episode, continuing the look at the Rush Hunters, discussing why Barrel is the last Baltan Seijin, they look at the Baltan who fought 80, and then the one who fought Jonias, remembering Belial bringing up Jonias before. Jathar reappears after Retsuden 104, rejoining them, and we learn that Belial has gone off on his own for a bit, and the Kaiju that let them hijack Retsuden got destroyed. When Belial gets back in touch with them, after we watch Velokron Hunting, Belial orders them to join him in the Plasma Galaxy, and the last bit with them doing so is animated. All 6 were added to Daikaiju Rush. 50-51: TV Broadcast for the first Theatre Special. First part is aired on its own, but Icarus Seijin does a recap for the second part. 52: The Spark Dolls Troupe Taro look at Taro's battle with Eleking, then the Yapool revived Bemstar, Sabotendar and Velokron. Then Taro talks about his parents and elder brothers. He then covers how the other Ultra Brothers helped him use the Ultra Bell to defeat Mururoa, and talks about the 'Shin Ultra Brothers' aka the Ultras actively involved in Ginga. Black King gives everyone a hero style intro to cap off the episode. OP: Focus on Ginga, Victory, a shot of the Ultra 6 Brothers, Ginga Strium, Victory with the EX Red King Knuckle, end shot is Ginga and Victory. 53: Having made their way back to space, the Spark Dolls of Valkie Seijin and Nackle Seijin are pulled into another wormhole, where they find themselves restored. Icarus Seijin arrives, revealing they're in his 4D space, and revealing they're 2 years in the future, they look at the new threats facing this earth, with also looks at Seven's battle with the original Chiburu Seijin and Android 01, and then his battle with Guts Seijin. At the end, Valkie and Nackle convince Icarus to go out to fight Icarus, even though, as he points out, they'll still be Spark Dolls out there. 54: Taro receives a premonition of Victory, and then an Ultra Sign from Ginga, informing him of things. The Victorians remind him of how Gaia and Agul once received aid from people below the surface, and he hopes that Hikaru and Shou, presently at odds, can come together like Hikaru did with Tomoya, and how Mebius and GUYS did with Hikari. He also notes there is now a defence team, UPG, and resolves to help Hikaru and Ginga. Zoffy, Man, Seven, Jack and Ace come to grant him there power, before he teleports back to earth.

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thatcrazyfanfictionwriter · 6 years

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Secret of the Sewers: The Losing Score

Inside the healing pavilion, Usagi, Donny, and Leo were doing all that they could to try and cure Hisako’s affliction. Unfortunately, her condition just continued to worsen. As Donnie wiped sweat from her brow for the hundredth time that hour, the four guards carrying the Daimyo entered the pavilion.

“Master Healer!” one shouted. “The Daimyo is in need of your gifts!”

The master healer, who had been overseeing Hisako’s treatments, immediately ushered the guards towards a private chamber near the back of the pavilion. As the doors closed, Usagi turned to them in confusion and worry.

“The Daimyo did not look well.” he remarked. “Perhaps he was attacked.”

“Maybe by the same person that attacked Hisako.” Leo deduced.

“But who? And why?” Donny questioned.

“We have to trust that the Daimyo’s son will handle those questions.” Usagi insisted, looking down at Hisako sadly. “I fear what will happen if we leave your sister unattended for long.”

...

Out in the arena, the remaining fighters were called together once again. Raph and Mikey looked at the other five contestants, seeing a distinct lack of their siblings.

“Oh man, both Leo and Donny failed to make the cut.” Mikey realized.

“Hisako too.” Raph pointed out. “They must be kicking themselves so hard right now.”

“Yeah, but I would never be so unsportsmanlike as to rub it in their faces.” Mikey insisted.

“I would.” Raph retorted without missing a beat.

Mikey grinned.

“Yeah, me too.” he admitted. “Once this is over, we’ll go find them.”

As he said this, Gyoji appeared alongside Ue-Sama, who was now wielding his father’s staff.

“Champions!” He proclaimed. “My father has been forced to turn over his duties as Master of the Tournament in order to deal with a delicate issue that has arisen. However, I am pleased to announce that the matches will continue this day!”

The crowd cheered happily and the champions all grinned.

“However, because of a withdrawal from the competition, we have been left with an uneven number of contestants.” Ue-Sama continued. “Some time will be needed to figure out how to handle this issue. Thus, I dismiss the remaining champions for one mega-quargon, after which the matches will continue as planned.”

“How long is a mega-quargon?” Raph asked.

“Long enough for us to hunt down some food, and our wayward siblings.” Mikey announced. “I want them to be there when I wipe the floor with the competition, starting with your sorry shell.”

“Yeah, keep dreaming Mikey.” Raph remarked.

“What, you don’t think I can do it?” Mikey retorted, his face somewhat serious. “You don’t think I’m a contender? You don’t think I’m good enough to go all the way?”

“In a word… yes.” Raph responded. “Come on, let’s go find the others.”

He walked out as Mikey took in what his brother said. After a moment, he chased after Raph.

“I’m gonna make you eat those words, Raph!” he shouted. “You hear me?”

“Yeah, yeah.” Raph waved off.

...

Up on the Daimyo’s observation deck, Gyoji looked over at Ue-Sama.

“My lord, are you sure it is wise to keep your father’s condition a secret?” he questioned.

“Revealing the truth would only cause unwanted panic.” Ue-Sama rationalized. “Besides, we have the assassin in custody, and we do not wish to alarm his students. We do not yet know if they pose a threat. So, for now, we will continue as if nothing has happened.”

Gyoji bowed.

“Of course, my lord.” he said before disappearing once again.

…

Down in the palace dungeons, Splinter sat in a small cell, trying his best to remain calm. His thoughts continued to drift to his children, praying that they would be alright and that he would be able to see the again. As he sat there in a meditative position, a voice from the shadows suddenly spoke up.

“How can one stay so calm in the face of such hardship?” the voice questioned.

Splinter perked up, recognizing the voice immediately. It was the Daimyo’s true assassin, who calmly stepped out of the darkness to sneer at the captive rat.

“I stay calm for I know your ambitions will be thwarted.” Splinter replied. “The truth will shine through your deception.”

Tigerclaw let out a laugh, approaching the bars as he did. Splinter stepped back as the tiger closed in.

“I highly doubt that, rat.” He smirked. “Especially since you're going to confess to the assassination attempt.”

“Why would I do that?” Splinter asked.

“Because the Daimyo isn’t the only one who’s life hangs in the balance.”

Splinter’s eyes went wide.

“Hisako…” he whispered.

“The poison used on her was native to my home dimension.” He explained. “a deadly concoction that will leave her in unimaginable agony before she finally begs for death's embrace.”

He reached under a scarf he wore around his neck, pulling out a small vial with a cork in it.

“This is the only antidote.” He explained. “And if you admit to your crimes, I'll be merciful enough to save your daughter.”

Splinter glared at the tiger with contempt. Tigerclaw tucked the vial back under his scarf, then turned and made his way out of the prison.

“Now if you'll excuse me, I have a tournament to win.” He announced as the doors slammed shut behind him.

...

Meanwhile, Mikey, Raph, and the rest of the champions were milling about the plaza, waiting for the next round. As they walked, Mikey continued to pester his brother about his skills.

“C'mon Raph, how many times have I held my own in a fight?” He pressed.

“You’re good little brother, but you ain’t that good.” Raph responded.

“What's that supposed to mean?” Mikey questioned. “I'm just as good as the rest of you guys!”

“Mikey, you spend more time trying to get out of training then you do actually trying to hone your skills.” Raph countered.

“That's not true!” Mikey argued.

Raph just stopped walking for a moment, turning and giving his orange brother an incredulous look.

“...Okay, maybe it is.” Mikey relented. “But I still have just as much a shot at winning this as you.”

Raph rolled his eyes.

“You got lucky last round and Sensei bowed out.” Raph pointed out. “but next round decides the Final Four, and if you make it that far, it'll be a miracle.”

“Then just call me the miracle turtle.” Mikey responded.

As he was walking, he failed to watch where he was going, and ended up running right into Tigerclaw. The tiger growled at him, his eyes narrowing.

“Watch where you're going, terrapin.” He snarled.

“Oh, uh, sorry dude.” Mikey apologized. “Didn’t see you there.”

Tigerclaw let out a sniff, turning away from Mikey with a look of disdain.

“Your manners are worse than your stench.” He growled.

“Hey!” Mikey responded. “I said I was sorry, what more do you want from me?”

Tigerclaw just snorted.

“What I want, a cub like you could never provide.” Tigerclaw retorted. “Why you were allowed into these games is a mystery to me.”

“Hey!” Mikey said again. “You know, I’m getting a little sick of hearing that. I can take it from my bros, but you don't get to badmouth me.”

Tigerclaw leaned in close, growling at the orange turtle.

“And what are you gonna do about it?” He asked, extending his claws.

Mikey took a step back and gulped slightly. Thankfully, he was saved from his impending doom by the timely arrival of Gyoji.

“Champions!” he declared. “The next round of the Battle Nexus Tournament is about to begin!”

“Whew.” Mikey let out.

Tigerclaw sheathed his claws, straightening up.

“See you in the tournament, cub.” He sneered before walking away.

Mikey watched him go, then seemed to sag.

“Dude, I think I just saw my life flash before my eyes.” He informed Raph.

Raph just shook his head, pushing Mikey forward.

“C'mon bozo, let's get to the arena.” The red turtle insisted.

…

The crowd had returned in full force as the seven remaining combatants emerged out into the arena. Ue-Sama walked out onto the Daimyo’s booth, lifting his father's staff high.

“Welcome to the next round of the Battle Nexus Tournament!” He declared. “Before we begin, the matchups will be determined by random lottery!”

Gyoji appeared in the center of the arena at that. With a wave of his war paddle, a large watery sphere appeared out of thin air.

“As there are uneven number of combatants, the unpaired champion will automatically move on to the Final Four.” Gyoji explained.

All seven warriors reached into the ball. A purple and blue warrior and a female looking alien pulled out kunai knives with matching purple tassels. They bowed to one another, then disappeared into shimmering light. Gen reached in and pulled out a red kunai knife. Immediately, Gyoji appeared beside him.

“Gennosuke of Dimension Earth 2.5, you shall advance to the next stage of combat.”

“Excellent!” Gen exclaimed before turning to Raph and Mikey. “You all should have bet on me when you had the chance.”

He then disappeared into shimmering light as Mikey looked down at his own Kunai knife. It had a yellow tassel, identical to the one Tigerclaw held. Gulping fast, Mikey turned to the combatant nearest to him, shaking his hand vigorously.

“Good luck, my friend!” he announced.

He then released the combatant, leaving the unfortunate alien holding the yellow kunai knife. He locked eyes with Tigerclaw, then they vanished.

“Ha!” Mikey let out, holding up his newly acquired green kunai knife. “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee! Who be the turtle? The turtle be-”

“Me.” Raph finished, showing him his matching kunai knife. “The turtle who’s gonna enjoy this so hard. We’re talking a lifetime's worth of get backs, here.”

Mikey flinched, then he and Raph disappeared as well. The entire arena then shimmered and shifted, dividing into equal thirds. The purple guy and his opponent faced off, as did Tigerclaw and his. Mikey just kinda looked at his brother nervously, chucking quietly.

“I guess it's too much to hope you'll forfeit like Splinter did.” He said quietly.

“You got that right, bro.” Raph confirmed, drawing his sai.

“Eh, thought as much.” Mikey replied.

Raph then leapt towards Mikey, sai poised to strike. Mikey rolled out of the way at the last second, the sai missing him by scant inches.

…

In one of the other slices, Tigerclaw faced off against his opponent, a creature resembling a greyish-blue ogre with orange hair. The creature charged at Tigerclaw, a spear-like weapon poised to strike. Tigerclaw deftly caught it, wrenching it from his hands before tossing it aside. Tigerclaw then took a swipe at the ogre, his claws raking his chest before he disintegrated into light. The warrior was then transported up to the loser’s box, where he promptly threw a childish fit.

…

The purple and blue warrior faced off against the female alien, both masters of tridents. Their weapons clashed as they tried to force the other one back. The female seemed to have the advantage, until the purple and blue guy literally began to grow. His muscles filled out as he began pushing her back. Soon, he was towering over her as her small mouth dropped in shock.

Before she could properly adjust to her opponent’s increased size, he twisted the trident from her hand and stabbed at her stomach. She disappeared in light as he raised his weapon above his head, bellowing out a victory cry.

…

Raph and Mikey continued to circle each other continuously before Raph charged at him. Mikey quickly jumped over him and kicked him in the butt, irritating him even more. The crowd loved the antics, cheering loudly.

“Would you listen to that, Raphie-boy.” Mikey taunted. “Seems the crowd is loving me kicking your butt. Can’t say I blame them.”

In a frustrated frenzy, Raph leapt at Mikey, only for Mikey to duck under him. This caused him to tumble to the ground, bouncing slightly before sliding across the dirt on his stomach.

“Ok, now you’re just getting sloppy.” Mikey commented.

Raph saw red as he got to his feet, swiping at Mikey repeatedly. The orange turtle merely backed up, keeping his hands behind his back as he dodged and weaved around his brother’s attacks.

“Will! You! Shut! Your! Trap!” Raph yelled with each strike.

“Why? Is my talking bothering you?” Mikey asked, still dodging the attacks. “Are you being distracted somehow? Losing focus? Messing up your concentration? Finally getting on your nerves, perhaps?”

Raph then dropped to his hands and knees, feeling exhausted from the fight.

“Or maybe you’re just a teeny tiny itty-bitty smidge worried,” Mikey continued. “That I might actually… beat you.”

Raph saw red. He got to his feet and charged blindly at Mikey. The orange turtle deftly jumped into the air, sending his brother crashing into the wall of their slice. He rebounded hard, his vision fuzzy as he disappeared into light. As he shook his head to clear it, he found himself in the loser’s box, much to his horror.

“I… I don’t believe it.” He let out in shock. “Mikey beat me? He’s in the final four? And I’m out. What if... What if… what if Mikey actually wins?!”

He turned on the ogre that Tigerclaw had beaten, grabbing him and shaking him hard while slamming him into the wall.

“What if he actually becomes the Battle Nexus champion?” He continued. “He’ll never let me live it down, and I’ll never be able to live with myself!”

A familiar orange hand came down on his shoulder, pulling him off the ogre and allowing the poor guy to sink to the ground. Raph turned to see Traximus smiling slightly.

“Defeat is a harsh Mistress, my friend.” The Triceraton told him.

“Traximus.” Raph recognized.

“Care to drown your sorrows in a serozian protein liquid supplement?” He offered.

“I have no idea what that is, but why the shell not.” Raph answered.

…

Not long after that, Raph and Traximus sat in one of the few restaurants in the Nexus. Traximus downed a large mug of something Raph couldn’t recognize (and part of him didn’t want to). Raph helped himself to the Nexus equivalent of a root beer float, eating the foam with a strange spoon.

“Thanks for the drink, Traximus.” Raph told the Triceraton. “But I coulda bought my own drink. Ya didn’t have to pay for mine.”

“Call it repaying you for helping me and my colleagues on the Triceraton Home world.” he replied.

“Yeah, I was wondering about that.” Raph admitted, twirling his spoon in his mug. “Last time we saw you, you were riding that giant slug thingy and causing a riot after it ate your Prime Leader.”

“Much has happened since then.” Traximus informed. “My fellow gladiators and I made our escape in the wake of your own. Unfortunately, once we escaped from the Arena, Zanramon’s loyal followers freed him from the belly of the Kraathatrogon.”

Raph’s eyes went wide.

“He survived getting eaten?!” Raph exclaimed.

“So it would seem.” Traximus replied. “My fellow gladiators and I have been doing what we can to fight back against his oppression, but the need for more warriors grows with each passing day. It is for that reason that I came to these games, hoping to recruit honorable warriors for a worthy cause.”

Raph nodded, then a small blush came to his face.

“Speaking of warriors, did uh… did Mona Lisa stay with you guys?” he asked.

“The Salamandarian female?” Traximus questioned. “Yes. She and her brother have been a great asset to our cause. I owe those two my life.”

“How’s she doing?” Raph continued.”

“Quite well.” Traximus assured him. “The last I heard, she was with her brother and the former Triceraton All-Stars performing a raid on some supply ships destined for the Home world. She speaks fondly of you, by the way.”

“That’s great to hear.” Raph replied, lifting his glass.

“Indeed.” Traximus agreed. “Though it seems corruption is an incurable force, even here in the Battle Nexus.”

“What do you mean?” Raph questioned.

“I thought you knew.” Traximus replied. “Surely you are not ignorant of your own kin being poisoned.”

Raph choked on his drink, spewing it out before coughing violently. He composed himself quickly, turning to Traximus in utter confusion.

“What?!” he exclaimed.

“During the second round, your sister was poisoned.” Traximus replied. “I was there when she collapsed. The Daimyo did his best to handle the matter discreetly, but rumors still found their way to my ears.”

“What have you heard?!” Raph demanded, desperation in his eyes.

“Only that the assassin that poisoned your sister also attempted to take the life of the Daimyo, and nearly succeeded.” Traximus continued. “They arrested the rat, and are no doubt attempting to glean the antidote from him.”

“Wait, did you say rat?” Raph asked.

Traximus nodded.

“I believe he called himself…” he hesitated, trying to remember the name. “Sliver? Spinster?”

“Splinter?” Raph let out in disbelief. “That’s mine and Hisako’s Sensei! And he sure as shell ain’t no assassin! What else have you heard?”

“I’m afraid that’s all I know.” Traximus lamented.

“This is insane!” Raph exclaimed. “It’s gotta be a set-up. I’m gonna find Splinter and bust him out right now!”

Traximus quickly grabbed his arm, stopping him before he could go anywhere.

“Raphael, that is an incredibly foolhardy and potentially dangerous course of action.” He told the red turtle before smirking. “If you think I’m letting you do it alone, then you’re sorely mistaken.”

...

The Head Healer knelt over the Daimyo’s body, performing the same ritual he attempted to do to Hisako. Two guards stood watch over the room, their eyes occasionally glancing over to the cot Hisako occupied. Leo and Donnie had been forced to remove her thick armor for a thinner kimono, her temperature rising rapidly. Her hair was matted with sweat and she groaned as if in constant pain.

“I have never seen such a horrible malady.” Usagi whispered, applying a fresh batch of salve to her wound.

“Leo, her temperature is getting close to deadly levels.” Donny let out. “At the rate it’s climbing, she has a day… maybe even less.”

Leo just looked at his sister in dread, feeling completely helpless. As he gently pushed her hair from her face and placed a cool washcloth on her forehead, Ue-Sama walked in. Donny saw him and was on his feet in an instant.

“Tell me you found something!” he begged.

“I believe we found the assassin responsible for what happened to your sister, as well as my father.”

“Really?” Donny responded. “Well do you think he’ll cure Hisako?”

“He has not spoken a word since his arrest.” Ue-Sama lamented.

“I could get him to talk.” Leo muttered darkly.

“Absolutely not.” Ue-Sama snapped. “Your mind is clouded by thoughts of revenge. You would kill him before he had a chance to give you the antidote.”

Leo let out a sigh before turning back to Ue-Sama.

“You’re right.” Leo relented. “Just do what you can, please. Our sister is running out of time.”

“I assure you, I am doing all that I can.” Ue-Sama replied. “He will talk. You have my word.”

Leo bowed to Ue-Sama as the latter peeked in on his father. The Daimyo’s condition did not appear to be changing at all, and his son allowed a small smile to grow under his mask.

“How is he, Master Healer?” He asked as he stepped into the room.

“Not well, I’m afraid.” The healer admitted mournfully. “His will is strong, but his wounds are great. His chances of survival… are not good.”

“Do what you can.” Ue-Sama told him. “That is all I can ask.”

“My lord, perhaps now would be the time to admit to your subjects what has befallen their beloved Daimyo.” The healer offered up. “If the worst comes to pass, they have the right to know the truth.”

Ue-Sama sighed.

“There is wisdom to your words.” he admitted. “Very well. The semi-finals are about to begin, and I can think of no better time to break the news.”

“Then go, my lord.” The healer told him. “I will make sure to inform you of your father’s progress.”

Ue-Sama then turned and walked out of the healer’s pavilion, intent to return to his duties.

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nemesis-nexus · 5 years

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***ALL GAVE SOME, SOME GAVE ALL!***

Veteran's Day Sermon

Hail Enki Great Dragon and God of the Seeet Water, HEAR US! On this day we honor those who put their well-being aside and voluntarily risked it all to fight on behalf of millions of people they don't know and will never meet!