Chapter 233: Ultimate Sacrifice
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Chapter 233: Ultimate Sacrifice
Vir didnt wait for Ekanai to finish his speech. Blinking to the demon as he emerged from the ground, Vir unleashed a Katar Launch at point-blank range. The disc of pure black prana blazed out, so thick that it became visible. Ekanai was far too close to dodge.
Then a raging torrent of Ash prana flowed into the demons chest. His tattoo glowed, and Ekanai leaned and twisted slightly away. The blade passed by with less than an inch to spare.
What was that?
Not only had Ekanai dodged a blow that shouldve been impossible, Virs own chest tattoo had never glowed with prana like that before.
Ekanai showed neither fear nor excitement. His movements had been so casual, so easy, as if was preordained that Virs attack would miss.
Alright, so you dodged one. What about a dozen?
Blinking to Ekanais back, Vir tapped into his body's prana reserves to fire a Katar Launch Barrage. Blades of pure black prana erupted from his katar, all bound for Ekanai. Vir even altered his aim, firing several where he expected Ekanai might dodge to.
Except, when the blades reached their target, the ghael was no longer there.
A clang sounded from nearby. Vir whipped his head to find Maiya with daggers raised in an X guard, blocking Ekanais strike.
Dance of the Shadow Demon.
Virs heart nearly stopped as he shoved prana into his legs, Blinking once again to close the gap.New novel chapters are published on
Dont you dare harm her! Vir roared. His momentum sent him hurtling right at the demon, but like his previous attacks, Vir missed.
Maiyas however, did not. Her blade struck his face, drawing a line of red across the demons cheek. A superficial wound, but significant nonetheless.
Nice one, Mai! So he can be harmed!
Virs optimism, however, was short-lived. Ekanai's wound healed before his eyes as the warm glow of Yuma's Embrace litup his tattoo. It was one of the two Panav Ultimate Bloodline Arts Cirayus had mentioned, the other being Ultimate Sacrifice.
He watched in horror as Ekanai flew into a rage. His attack slipped past Maiyas guard and plunged into her abdomen. She wore no armor, but with the prana coating Ekanai's blade, Vir wasn't sure how much it'd have helped anyway.
Maiya didnt cry out in pain, or even wince. Despite her injury, she swiped again at Ekanai, using the opportunity to strike another blow.
Her blade, which Vir was sure would hit again, missed as Ekanai bent his head back at an impossible angle.
Her dagger passed right in front of his throat, drawing just a trickle of blood, but nothing more.
Pride bloomed in Vir's chest, even as his heart clenched with worry as he rushed to her side.
She really has come far.
Even without her devastating magic, she was capable of fightingand woundinga beast like Ekanai.
You once saw her as dead weight, Vir thought. Can you truly say that now?
It made Ekanais aggression toward her all the more confusingwhatever motivation the demon may once have had was no longer relevant, but Vir didnt have time to dwell on that. He rushed to her side, keeping a wary eye on the demon, who twirled his own Artifact Chakram menacingly in his hands. It was as if his predecessor was telling them he could kill them at any time. That he wasnt even close to wielding his full potential.
The truth dawned on Vir. Ekanais prescient dodges. The glowing chest tattoo. The way he seemed to slip like water around all attacks aimed at him.
Clarity. The Iksanas Ultimate Bloodline Tattoo. Cirayus had explained it as a limited ability to see the immediate future before it happened. Hed also mentioned how nearly impossible it was to fight against someone with that ability. Only the Third Eye Chakra would give Vir a fighting chance. Without it, he was dead meat.
After all, how could anyone fight an enemy that knew what you would do before even you did? It was a truly unfair advantage.
Maiya hurled a dagger at Ekanai, who casually deflected it with his katar.
Are you alright? Vir asked, snapped back to reality by her attack. Maiya forced a smile as she pressed on her wound. Its not bad, and you know me. Im no stranger to pain. This is nothing next toagh!?
Maiya cried out in pain as her wound wept. There was no bloodinstead, a wispy, milk-like substance floated out.
Instead of falling to the ground, however, it traveled through the air as if it weighed nothing at all To Ekanai. To the object he gripped in his deformed hand.
It was a crystal sphere, the size of an A Grade combat orb, except it was empty and colorless. Transparent.
Maiyas essence floated into the orb, and entered it. The sphere glowed slightly brighter, its color changing subtly.
Prana? Vir said incredulously, seeing Ice and Wind Affinity prana circulate within it.
Ekanai snarled. Nothing so mundane. This is something far more precious. Her essence. Her soul.
What is this nonsense? Maiya shouted, her indignation laced with a trace of fear.
Its a rare occasion for a soul to detach from its body, Ekanai said, casually tossing and catching the sphere in his hand as if it were a juggling ball. Even our best Thaumaturges only ever reproduce that feat by accident. Id be remiss not to harvest you.
Excuse me? Maiya said, looking like she was about to fly into a rage. What did you just say?
Ekanai ignored her and turned to Vir, his snarl widening. Every wound I inflict on her fills this orb until all of her is in here. When that happens, Im afraid your friend over there will exist only as prana and chakra. I wonder what sort of spell shell become?
Become? A spell? What nonsense is this?
There was such a deep wrongness to his words. Even more than him wanting to kill her. Ekanai didnt even see Maiya as a person. He saw her as a tool. Something to be used.
Youre lying, Vir spat, feeling like he wanted to vomit. To Ekanai, that was all that people ever were. His blatant disregard for life shouldnt have come as a surprise. Not after all those times the demon had taken over, violating the sanctity of his own body.
Vir had never hated anyone as much as he hated Ekanai in that moment. The knowledge that this creature was a part of himthat hed been Ekanai in a past lifemade it all the worse.
Thats not possible, Vir croaked, his voice hoarse. How can you just use a soul for spells? Youre just trying to rile me up.
It wasn't just emotion behind his words though. Ekanai couldn't be real. Like all of Vir's predecessors, Ekanai had died. How could Vir have reincarnated otherwise? Besides, whatever was left of the demon had perished to save him in the Mahdi Realm.
Ekanai shrugged. Have you wondered how the gods created magic? Isn't it strange? Magic suddenly came to be, when there had been none before. Since the Age of Gods, no new spells have been created. Ever.
Vir glanced back at Maiya, not quite knowing what to make of that. Ashani had never mentioned a time before magic. All he knew for certain was that the gods had indeed created the orbs, and that nobody had replicated the feat ever since. It was hardly suspicious; so much of what the Imperium accomplished was incomprehensible to humans and demons alike.
I don't see how this is relevant, Vir replied, doing his best to ignore the terror that mounted within him. If Ekanai wanted to ramble, Vir wasn't about to stop him. It gave him precious time to plan.
Ekanai grinned viciously. Ah, but it is. Do you know how the first orbs came to be? Do you know what lies at their core?
Maiya stared daggers at Ekanai, a grim, determined expression set on her face. Vir was relieved to see that her wound had stopped leaking, despite not having been treated. And yet, she had certainly paid a price.
Maiya was now noticeably more translucent than shed been before. Vir could no longer make out some of the details of her clothingthey blended in with the sceneryand her normally fiery hair was barely even visible.
Maiya, are you
Im fine, Vir, she wheezed, breathing raggedly. Just feel like my energy got sapped, but its okay. Im okay. Now come on. We need a plan. Like when we fought Cirayus. He bleeds. He can be killed. We can do this, but only if we work together.
Crushing doom weighed on his mind, and only through his deep, calming breaths did he keep his mind from cracking entirely.
Thats what he wants, Vir thought. You cant give in.
Vir fought savagely, his only purpose keeping Ekanais attention.
If hes focused on me, he cant harm Maiya.
It wasnt much of a plan, but it was the best he could manage in his current state.
Ekanai exchanged blow after blow with Vir, and the entire time, Vir knew he was being toyed with. Ekanai would show an opening, which Vir wouldnt take, knowing it to be a trap, right before showing another opening, and another.
Unable to resist any longer, Vir finally lunged, at which point, Ekanai stabbed into his armor, piercing it like a knife through jam. Despite her agony, Maiya attacked when she could, but the demon effortlessly dodged both of their strikes, often sending Vir crashing into Maiya, forcing her to catch him.
Vir felt like a helpless villager again. Like hed been when theyd first started training at Riyans. Such was the disparity in their skillsboth Vir and Maiya were now highly trained, accomplished fighters, and Ekanai still wiped the floor with them.
Unlike Maiya, however, Vir did bleed. Worsehis own essence began drifting into the air, and Vir understood just what crushing pain Maiya must have gone through.
How she dealt with it without blacking outlet alone fightingwas beyond him. It was pain unlike anything hed ever felt.
Except, unlike Maiya, Virs essence drifted directly into Ekanais body, as if strengthening him.
It wasnt long before Vir was covered in injuries and his movement slowed.
In one final move, Ekanai severed Virs Achilles tendons, sending him falling to his knees.
Disappointing, Ekanai spat, looming over him like an executioner. This is why I must intervene. The realms do not need you, Ekavir. They need someone stronger. They need the Reaper. Our hosts have been gracious enough to manifest me into this world. I must capitalize."
You wont kill me, Vir said, though unlike when hed fought against Cirayus in Kinjal, he held no confidence in that assertion.
Wont I? Ekanai asked, squatting to Virs eye level.
Ekanai was very much the type of person who would kill Vir.
Im the last hope you have. You said it yourself.
Anywhere else, yes. Not here. This place is special. Here, I dont need your mind. Only your body. You forget, Im already in you. I need only for your mind to break. Then I can take over. Id hoped you would grow strong enough to fulfill your destiny, but fear not. I shall succeed where you failed. I will fulfill our destiny in your stead. And your friend there will give me the advantage I need. A truly new spell.
Vir glared at the demon and spat in his face. Eat Ash, chal!
Ekanais brow twitched as he wiped the spit from his face.
The demon wordlessly drove his katar into Vir, aiming for his heart.
Vir didnt even have the time to think, let alone react. He braced for the inevitable pain.
There was none. Instead, Vir felt something else. Something warm... and soft.
The comfort of Maiyas embrace.
Even as Ekanais katar plunged into her back, she kept quiet, enduring the pain in silence.
Vir wailed, calling her name.
Its okay, Maiya said, hushing him, gently embracing his head as what was left of her began to fade away. Look at you, still relying on me to protect you from the bullies, she said with a wry smile.
Maiya? No. Nononono! Vir shouted. Please. Not you.
Vir roared in pain and sobbed into her. He'd give anything. He'd give his own life to save her.
And yet, there was nothing he could do. He could only watch. Maiya looked... divine in that moment. All trace of pain and sadness was gone, and only a gentle warmth overflowed from her body.
Dont worry about me, Vir. I Maiya suddenly frowned in agony.
No. Not agony. Concentration.
What is this? Ekanai? she asked. Her eyes widened in realization. Her expression went from one of acceptance to confusion, to shock, and finally to sympathy. But the sympathy wasnt directed at Vir. I see, she said with a wry smile. So this was your plan all along.
Vir didnt understand a single one of the emotions that flitted across her face. Her expression and her tone were no longer that of someone about to meet their death, but someone who'd just intuited something profound.
Maiya? What's happening? Are you
What are you doing? Ekanai rasped, and for the first time, there was fear in his voice. Stop! How are you even talking?
Maiya turned her neck, smiling defiantly. Her hostility was mostly gone, replaced by a look that bordered on pity. It made no sense to Vir. If you think I wont help him, youve got another thing coming.
Turning back to Vir, she spoke hurriedly. There isnt much time. Vir, listen to me. Its fear. You must learn to control your fear. Its the only way to win. To get out of this place. It will kill you if you let it.
It? Maiya clearly wasnt referring to Ekanai. But if not him, then what?
Stop! Youll ruin everything! Ekanai roared, thrusting his orb onto Maiyas back. Her essence flowed away faster, and she winced in pain. Vir could barely even make out her outline nowshe was so faint.
Maiya, what
Ekanai is not the real enemy. There is a way out. You can do this, Vir. Remember, you must overcome your fear!
None of that matters. What about you? Vir asked, his face screwed up in anguish.
There was a brilliant flash of white, and what was left of Maiyas body began to vanish, turning into white motes of prana, starting with her feet and moving up.
Maiya held Virs face in her transparent hands and touched her forehead against his. Its okay. Its all going to be okay, Vir. Illbeokay.
Her hands vanished, turning into motes of prana. Her face neared, and she planted a kiss on his lips. Then she was gone, leaving no trace she'd ever existed.
Vir stared blankly as the last of her floated back to Ekanais orb, settling within it. The crystal now blazed dazzlingly with Maiyas Ice and Wind prana. Ekanai tossed it high into the air before catching it again.
Vir felt sick.
The demon grinned wickedly. And now, I have two things you value greatly. Your Artifact, and your friend. I truly did not believe it would be so easy to consume her.
Im going to kill you, Vir said. It wasnt a threat. He was simply stating a fact. Inside, he felt nothing. Not anger, not even sadness. Just a hollow emptiness, the likes of which hed never experienced. Not when hed assassinated the slumlord Ravin. Not even when hed taken Head Priest Haraks life.
Im going to end you, he repeated.
You will no doubt try, Ekanai said, already slipping into a shadow. But you cannot kill me. Not as you are.
And with that, Ekanai disappeared, taking with him the most precious person in Virs life.
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Chapter 233: Ultimate Sacrifice
Vir didnt wait for Ekanai to finish his speech. Blinking to the demon as he emerged from the ground, Vir unleashed a Katar Launch at point-blank range. The disc of pure black prana blazed out, so thick that it became visible. Ekanai was far too close to dodge.
Then a raging torrent of Ash prana flowed into the demons chest. His tattoo glowed, and Ekanai leaned and twisted slightly away. The blade passed by with less than an inch to spare.
What was that?
Not only had Ekanai dodged a blow that shouldve been impossible, Virs own chest tattoo had never glowed with prana like that before.
Ekanai showed neither fear nor excitement. His movements had been so casual, so easy, as if was preordained that Virs attack would miss.
Alright, so you dodged one. What about a dozen?
Blinking to Ekanais back, Vir tapped into his body's prana reserves to fire a Katar Launch Barrage. Blades of pure black prana erupted from his katar, all bound for Ekanai. Vir even altered his aim, firing several where he expected Ekanai might dodge to.
Except, when the blades reached their target, the ghael was no longer there.
A clang sounded from nearby. Vir whipped his head to find Maiya with daggers raised in an X guard, blocking Ekanais strike.
Dance of the Shadow Demon.
Virs heart nearly stopped as he shoved prana into his legs, Blinking once again to close the gap.New novel chapters are published on
Dont you dare harm her! Vir roared. His momentum sent him hurtling right at the demon, but like his previous attacks, Vir missed.
Maiyas however, did not. Her blade struck his face, drawing a line of red across the demons cheek. A superficial wound, but significant nonetheless.
Nice one, Mai! So he can be harmed!
Virs optimism, however, was short-lived. Ekanai's wound healed before his eyes as the warm glow of Yuma's Embrace litup his tattoo. It was one of the two Panav Ultimate Bloodline Arts Cirayus had mentioned, the other being Ultimate Sacrifice.
He watched in horror as Ekanai flew into a rage. His attack slipped past Maiyas guard and plunged into her abdomen. She wore no armor, but with the prana coating Ekanai's blade, Vir wasn't sure how much it'd have helped anyway.
Maiya didnt cry out in pain, or even wince. Despite her injury, she swiped again at Ekanai, using the opportunity to strike another blow.
Her blade, which Vir was sure would hit again, missed as Ekanai bent his head back at an impossible angle.
Her dagger passed right in front of his throat, drawing just a trickle of blood, but nothing more.
Pride bloomed in Vir's chest, even as his heart clenched with worry as he rushed to her side.
She really has come far.
Even without her devastating magic, she was capable of fightingand woundinga beast like Ekanai.
You once saw her as dead weight, Vir thought. Can you truly say that now?
It made Ekanais aggression toward her all the more confusingwhatever motivation the demon may once have had was no longer relevant, but Vir didnt have time to dwell on that. He rushed to her side, keeping a wary eye on the demon, who twirled his own Artifact Chakram menacingly in his hands. It was as if his predecessor was telling them he could kill them at any time. That he wasnt even close to wielding his full potential.
The truth dawned on Vir. Ekanais prescient dodges. The glowing chest tattoo. The way he seemed to slip like water around all attacks aimed at him.
Clarity. The Iksanas Ultimate Bloodline Tattoo. Cirayus had explained it as a limited ability to see the immediate future before it happened. Hed also mentioned how nearly impossible it was to fight against someone with that ability. Only the Third Eye Chakra would give Vir a fighting chance. Without it, he was dead meat.
After all, how could anyone fight an enemy that knew what you would do before even you did? It was a truly unfair advantage.
Maiya hurled a dagger at Ekanai, who casually deflected it with his katar.
Are you alright? Vir asked, snapped back to reality by her attack. Maiya forced a smile as she pressed on her wound. Its not bad, and you know me. Im no stranger to pain. This is nothing next toagh!?
Maiya cried out in pain as her wound wept. There was no bloodinstead, a wispy, milk-like substance floated out.
Instead of falling to the ground, however, it traveled through the air as if it weighed nothing at all To Ekanai. To the object he gripped in his deformed hand.
It was a crystal sphere, the size of an A Grade combat orb, except it was empty and colorless. Transparent.
Maiyas essence floated into the orb, and entered it. The sphere glowed slightly brighter, its color changing subtly.
Prana? Vir said incredulously, seeing Ice and Wind Affinity prana circulate within it.
Ekanai snarled. Nothing so mundane. This is something far more precious. Her essence. Her soul.
What is this nonsense? Maiya shouted, her indignation laced with a trace of fear.
Its a rare occasion for a soul to detach from its body, Ekanai said, casually tossing and catching the sphere in his hand as if it were a juggling ball. Even our best Thaumaturges only ever reproduce that feat by accident. Id be remiss not to harvest you.
Excuse me? Maiya said, looking like she was about to fly into a rage. What did you just say?
Ekanai ignored her and turned to Vir, his snarl widening. Every wound I inflict on her fills this orb until all of her is in here. When that happens, Im afraid your friend over there will exist only as prana and chakra. I wonder what sort of spell shell become?
Become? A spell? What nonsense is this?
There was such a deep wrongness to his words. Even more than him wanting to kill her. Ekanai didnt even see Maiya as a person. He saw her as a tool. Something to be used.
Youre lying, Vir spat, feeling like he wanted to vomit. To Ekanai, that was all that people ever were. His blatant disregard for life shouldnt have come as a surprise. Not after all those times the demon had taken over, violating the sanctity of his own body.
Vir had never hated anyone as much as he hated Ekanai in that moment. The knowledge that this creature was a part of himthat hed been Ekanai in a past lifemade it all the worse.
Thats not possible, Vir croaked, his voice hoarse. How can you just use a soul for spells? Youre just trying to rile me up.
It wasn't just emotion behind his words though. Ekanai couldn't be real. Like all of Vir's predecessors, Ekanai had died. How could Vir have reincarnated otherwise? Besides, whatever was left of the demon had perished to save him in the Mahdi Realm.
Ekanai shrugged. Have you wondered how the gods created magic? Isn't it strange? Magic suddenly came to be, when there had been none before. Since the Age of Gods, no new spells have been created. Ever.
Vir glanced back at Maiya, not quite knowing what to make of that. Ashani had never mentioned a time before magic. All he knew for certain was that the gods had indeed created the orbs, and that nobody had replicated the feat ever since. It was hardly suspicious; so much of what the Imperium accomplished was incomprehensible to humans and demons alike.
I don't see how this is relevant, Vir replied, doing his best to ignore the terror that mounted within him. If Ekanai wanted to ramble, Vir wasn't about to stop him. It gave him precious time to plan.
Ekanai grinned viciously. Ah, but it is. Do you know how the first orbs came to be? Do you know what lies at their core?
Maiya stared daggers at Ekanai, a grim, determined expression set on her face. Vir was relieved to see that her wound had stopped leaking, despite not having been treated. And yet, she had certainly paid a price.
Maiya was now noticeably more translucent than shed been before. Vir could no longer make out some of the details of her clothingthey blended in with the sceneryand her normally fiery hair was barely even visible.
Maiya, are you
Im fine, Vir, she wheezed, breathing raggedly. Just feel like my energy got sapped, but its okay. Im okay. Now come on. We need a plan. Like when we fought Cirayus. He bleeds. He can be killed. We can do this, but only if we work together.
Crushing doom weighed on his mind, and only through his deep, calming breaths did he keep his mind from cracking entirely.
Thats what he wants, Vir thought. You cant give in.
Vir fought savagely, his only purpose keeping Ekanais attention.
If hes focused on me, he cant harm Maiya.
It wasnt much of a plan, but it was the best he could manage in his current state.
Ekanai exchanged blow after blow with Vir, and the entire time, Vir knew he was being toyed with. Ekanai would show an opening, which Vir wouldnt take, knowing it to be a trap, right before showing another opening, and another.
Unable to resist any longer, Vir finally lunged, at which point, Ekanai stabbed into his armor, piercing it like a knife through jam. Despite her agony, Maiya attacked when she could, but the demon effortlessly dodged both of their strikes, often sending Vir crashing into Maiya, forcing her to catch him.
Vir felt like a helpless villager again. Like hed been when theyd first started training at Riyans. Such was the disparity in their skillsboth Vir and Maiya were now highly trained, accomplished fighters, and Ekanai still wiped the floor with them.
Unlike Maiya, however, Vir did bleed. Worsehis own essence began drifting into the air, and Vir understood just what crushing pain Maiya must have gone through.
How she dealt with it without blacking outlet alone fightingwas beyond him. It was pain unlike anything hed ever felt.
Except, unlike Maiya, Virs essence drifted directly into Ekanais body, as if strengthening him.
It wasnt long before Vir was covered in injuries and his movement slowed.
In one final move, Ekanai severed Virs Achilles tendons, sending him falling to his knees.
Disappointing, Ekanai spat, looming over him like an executioner. This is why I must intervene. The realms do not need you, Ekavir. They need someone stronger. They need the Reaper. Our hosts have been gracious enough to manifest me into this world. I must capitalize."
You wont kill me, Vir said, though unlike when hed fought against Cirayus in Kinjal, he held no confidence in that assertion.
Wont I? Ekanai asked, squatting to Virs eye level.
Ekanai was very much the type of person who would kill Vir.
Im the last hope you have. You said it yourself.
Anywhere else, yes. Not here. This place is special. Here, I dont need your mind. Only your body. You forget, Im already in you. I need only for your mind to break. Then I can take over. Id hoped you would grow strong enough to fulfill your destiny, but fear not. I shall succeed where you failed. I will fulfill our destiny in your stead. And your friend there will give me the advantage I need. A truly new spell.
Vir glared at the demon and spat in his face. Eat Ash, chal!
Ekanais brow twitched as he wiped the spit from his face.
The demon wordlessly drove his katar into Vir, aiming for his heart.
Vir didnt even have the time to think, let alone react. He braced for the inevitable pain.
There was none. Instead, Vir felt something else. Something warm... and soft.
The comfort of Maiyas embrace.
Even as Ekanais katar plunged into her back, she kept quiet, enduring the pain in silence.
Vir wailed, calling her name.
Its okay, Maiya said, hushing him, gently embracing his head as what was left of her began to fade away. Look at you, still relying on me to protect you from the bullies, she said with a wry smile.
Maiya? No. Nononono! Vir shouted. Please. Not you.
Vir roared in pain and sobbed into her. He'd give anything. He'd give his own life to save her.
And yet, there was nothing he could do. He could only watch. Maiya looked... divine in that moment. All trace of pain and sadness was gone, and only a gentle warmth overflowed from her body.
Dont worry about me, Vir. I Maiya suddenly frowned in agony.
No. Not agony. Concentration.
What is this? Ekanai? she asked. Her eyes widened in realization. Her expression went from one of acceptance to confusion, to shock, and finally to sympathy. But the sympathy wasnt directed at Vir. I see, she said with a wry smile. So this was your plan all along.
Vir didnt understand a single one of the emotions that flitted across her face. Her expression and her tone were no longer that of someone about to meet their death, but someone who'd just intuited something profound.
Maiya? What's happening? Are you
What are you doing? Ekanai rasped, and for the first time, there was fear in his voice. Stop! How are you even talking?
Maiya turned her neck, smiling defiantly. Her hostility was mostly gone, replaced by a look that bordered on pity. It made no sense to Vir. If you think I wont help him, youve got another thing coming.
Turning back to Vir, she spoke hurriedly. There isnt much time. Vir, listen to me. Its fear. You must learn to control your fear. Its the only way to win. To get out of this place. It will kill you if you let it.
It? Maiya clearly wasnt referring to Ekanai. But if not him, then what?
Stop! Youll ruin everything! Ekanai roared, thrusting his orb onto Maiyas back. Her essence flowed away faster, and she winced in pain. Vir could barely even make out her outline nowshe was so faint.
Maiya, what
Ekanai is not the real enemy. There is a way out. You can do this, Vir. Remember, you must overcome your fear!
None of that matters. What about you? Vir asked, his face screwed up in anguish.
There was a brilliant flash of white, and what was left of Maiyas body began to vanish, turning into white motes of prana, starting with her feet and moving up.
Maiya held Virs face in her transparent hands and touched her forehead against his. Its okay. Its all going to be okay, Vir. Illbeokay.
Her hands vanished, turning into motes of prana. Her face neared, and she planted a kiss on his lips. Then she was gone, leaving no trace she'd ever existed.
Vir stared blankly as the last of her floated back to Ekanais orb, settling within it. The crystal now blazed dazzlingly with Maiyas Ice and Wind prana. Ekanai tossed it high into the air before catching it again.
Vir felt sick.
The demon grinned wickedly. And now, I have two things you value greatly. Your Artifact, and your friend. I truly did not believe it would be so easy to consume her.
Im going to kill you, Vir said. It wasnt a threat. He was simply stating a fact. Inside, he felt nothing. Not anger, not even sadness. Just a hollow emptiness, the likes of which hed never experienced. Not when hed assassinated the slumlord Ravin. Not even when hed taken Head Priest Haraks life.
Im going to end you, he repeated.
You will no doubt try, Ekanai said, already slipping into a shadow. But you cannot kill me. Not as you are.
And with that, Ekanai disappeared, taking with him the most precious person in Virs life.
Chapter 233: Ultimate SacrificeVir didnt wait for Ekanai to finish his speech. Blinking to the demon as he emerged from the ground, Vir unleashed a Katar Launch at point-blank range. The disc of pure black prana blazed out, so thick that it became visible. Ekanai was far too close to dodge.Then a raging torrent of Ash prana flowed into the demons chest. His tattoo glowed, and Ekanai leaned and twisted slightly away. The blade passed by with less than an inch to spare.What was that?Not only had Ekanai dodged a blow that shouldve been impossible, Virs own chest tattoo had never glowed with prana like that before.Ekanai showed neither fear nor excitement. His movements had been so casual, so easy, as if was preordained that Virs attack would miss.Alright, so you dodged one. What about a dozen?Blinking to Ekanais back, Vir tapped into his body's prana reserves to fire a Katar Launch Barrage. Blades of pure black prana erupted from his katar, all bound for Ekanai. Vir even altered his aim, firing several where he expected Ekanai might dodge to.Except, when the blades reached their target, the ghael was no longer there.A clang sounded from nearby. Vir whipped his head to find Maiya with daggers raised in an X guard, blocking Ekanais strike.Dance of the Shadow Demon.Virs heart nearly stopped as he shoved prana into his legs, Blinking once again to close the gap.New novel chapters are published onDont you dare harm her! Vir roared. His momentum sent him hurtling right at the demon, but like his previous attacks, Vir missed.Maiyas however, did not. Her blade struck his face, drawing a line of red across the demons cheek. A superficial wound, but significant nonetheless.Nice one, Mai! So he can be harmed!Virs optimism, however, was short-lived. Ekanai's wound healed before his eyes as the warm glow of Yuma's Embrace litup his tattoo. It was one of the two Panav Ultimate Bloodline Arts Cirayus had mentioned, the other being Ultimate Sacrifice.He watched in horror as Ekanai flew into a rage. His attack slipped past Maiyas guard and plunged into her abdomen. She wore no armor, but with the prana coating Ekanai's blade, Vir wasn't sure how much it'd have helped anyway.Maiya didnt cry out in pain, or even wince. Despite her injury, she swiped again at Ekanai, using the opportunity to strike another blow.Her blade, which Vir was sure would hit again, missed as Ekanai bent his head back at an impossible angle.Her dagger passed right in front of his throat, drawing just a trickle of blood, but nothing more.Pride bloomed in Vir's chest, even as his heart clenched with worry as he rushed to her side.She really has come far.Even without her devastating magic, she was capable of fightingand woundinga beast like Ekanai.You once saw her as dead weight, Vir thought. Can you truly say that now?It made Ekanais aggression toward her all the more confusingwhatever motivation the demon may once have had was no longer relevant, but Vir didnt have time to dwell on that. He rushed to her side, keeping a wary eye on the demon, who twirled his own Artifact Chakram menacingly in his hands. It was as if his predecessor was telling them he could kill them at any time. That he wasnt even close to wielding his full potential.The truth dawned on Vir. Ekanais prescient dodges. The glowing chest tattoo. The way he seemed to slip like water around all attacks aimed at him.Clarity. The Iksanas Ultimate Bloodline Tattoo. Cirayus had explained it as a limited ability to see the immediate future before it happened. Hed also mentioned how nearly impossible it was to fight against someone with that ability. Only the Third Eye Chakra would give Vir a fighting chance. Without it, he was dead meat.After all, how could anyone fight an enemy that knew what you would do before even you did? It was a truly unfair advantage.Maiya hurled a dagger at Ekanai, who casually deflected it with his katar.Are you alright? Vir asked, snapped back to reality by her attack. Maiya forced a smile as she pressed on her wound. Its not bad, and you know me. Im no stranger to pain. This is nothing next toagh!?Maiya cried out in pain as her wound wept. There was no bloodinstead, a wispy, milk-like substance floated out.Instead of falling to the ground, however, it traveled through the air as if it weighed nothing at all To Ekanai. To the object he gripped in his deformed hand.It was a crystal sphere, the size of an A Grade combat orb, except it was empty and colorless. Transparent.Maiyas essence floated into the orb, and entered it. The sphere glowed slightly brighter, its color changing subtly.Prana? Vir said incredulously, seeing Ice and Wind Affinity prana circulate within it.Ekanai snarled. Nothing so mundane. This is something far more precious. Her essence. Her soul.What is this nonsense? Maiya shouted, her indignation laced with a trace of fear.Its a rare occasion for a soul to detach from its body, Ekanai said, casually tossing and catching the sphere in his hand as if it were a juggling ball. Even our best Thaumaturges only ever reproduce that feat by accident. Id be remiss not to harvest you.Excuse me? Maiya said, looking like she was about to fly into a rage. What did you just say?Ekanai ignored her and turned to Vir, his snarl widening. Every wound I inflict on her fills this orb until all of her is in here. When that happens, Im afraid your friend over there will exist only as prana and chakra. I wonder what sort of spell shell become?Become? A spell? What nonsense is this?There was such a deep wrongness to his words. Even more than him wanting to kill her. Ekanai didnt even see Maiya as a person. He saw her as a tool. Something to be used.Youre lying, Vir spat, feeling like he wanted to vomit. To Ekanai, that was all that people ever were. His blatant disregard for life shouldnt have come as a surprise. Not after all those times the demon had taken over, violating the sanctity of his own body.Vir had never hated anyone as much as he hated Ekanai in that moment. The knowledge that this creature was a part of himthat hed been Ekanai in a past lifemade it all the worse.Thats not possible, Vir croaked, his voice hoarse. How can you just use a soul for spells? Youre just trying to rile me up.It wasn't just emotion behind his words though. Ekanai couldn't be real. Like all of Vir's predecessors, Ekanai had died. How could Vir have reincarnated otherwise? Besides, whatever was left of the demon had perished to save him in the Mahdi Realm.Ekanai shrugged. Have you wondered how the gods created magic? Isn't it strange? Magic suddenly came to be, when there had been none before. Since the Age of Gods, no new spells have been created. Ever.Vir glanced back at Maiya, not quite knowing what to make of that. Ashani had never mentioned a time before magic. All he knew for certain was that the gods had indeed created the orbs, and that nobody had replicated the feat ever since. It was hardly suspicious; so much of what the Imperium accomplished was incomprehensible to humans and demons alike.I don't see how this is relevant, Vir replied, doing his best to ignore the terror that mounted within him. If Ekanai wanted to ramble, Vir wasn't about to stop him. It gave him precious time to plan.Ekanai grinned viciously. Ah, but it is. Do you know how the first orbs came to be? Do you know what lies at their core?Maiya stared daggers at Ekanai, a grim, determined expression set on her face. Vir was relieved to see that her wound had stopped leaking, despite not having been treated. And yet, she had certainly paid a price.Maiya was now noticeably more translucent than shed been before. Vir could no longer make out some of the details of her clothingthey blended in with the sceneryand her normally fiery hair was barely even visible.Maiya, are youIm fine, Vir, she wheezed, breathing raggedly. Just feel like my energy got sapped, but its okay. Im okay. Now come on. We need a plan. Like when we fought Cirayus. He bleeds. He can be killed. We can do this, but only if we work together.Crushing doom weighed on his mind, and only through his deep, calming breaths did he keep his mind from cracking entirely.Thats what he wants, Vir thought. You cant give in.Vir fought savagely, his only purpose keeping Ekanais attention.If hes focused on me, he cant harm Maiya.It wasnt much of a plan, but it was the best he could manage in his current state.Ekanai exchanged blow after blow with Vir, and the entire time, Vir knew he was being toyed with. Ekanai would show an opening, which Vir wouldnt take, knowing it to be a trap, right before showing another opening, and another.Unable to resist any longer, Vir finally lunged, at which point, Ekanai stabbed into his armor, piercing it like a knife through jam. Despite her agony, Maiya attacked when she could, but the demon effortlessly dodged both of their strikes, often sending Vir crashing into Maiya, forcing her to catch him.Vir felt like a helpless villager again. Like hed been when theyd first started training at Riyans. Such was the disparity in their skillsboth Vir and Maiya were now highly trained, accomplished fighters, and Ekanai still wiped the floor with them.Unlike Maiya, however, Vir did bleed. Worsehis own essence began drifting into the air, and Vir understood just what crushing pain Maiya must have gone through.How she dealt with it without blacking outlet alone fightingwas beyond him. It was pain unlike anything hed ever felt.Except, unlike Maiya, Virs essence drifted directly into Ekanais body, as if strengthening him.It wasnt long before Vir was covered in injuries and his movement slowed.In one final move, Ekanai severed Virs Achilles tendons, sending him falling to his knees.Disappointing, Ekanai spat, looming over him like an executioner. This is why I must intervene. The realms do not need you, Ekavir. They need someone stronger. They need the Reaper. Our hosts have been gracious enough to manifest me into this world. I must capitalize."You wont kill me, Vir said, though unlike when hed fought against Cirayus in Kinjal, he held no confidence in that assertion.Wont I? Ekanai asked, squatting to Virs eye level.Ekanai was very much the type of person who would kill Vir.Im the last hope you have. You said it yourself.Anywhere else, yes. Not here. This place is special. Here, I dont need your mind. Only your body. You forget, Im already in you. I need only for your mind to break. Then I can take over. Id hoped you would grow strong enough to fulfill your destiny, but fear not. I shall succeed where you failed. I will fulfill our destiny in your stead. And your friend there will give me the advantage I need. A truly new spell.Vir glared at the demon and spat in his face. Eat Ash, chal!Ekanais brow twitched as he wiped the spit from his face.The demon wordlessly drove his katar into Vir, aiming for his heart.Vir didnt even have the time to think, let alone react. He braced for the inevitable pain.There was none. Instead, Vir felt something else. Something warm... and soft.The comfort of Maiyas embrace.Even as Ekanais katar plunged into her back, she kept quiet, enduring the pain in silence.Vir wailed, calling her name.Its okay, Maiya said, hushing him, gently embracing his head as what was left of her began to fade away. Look at you, still relying on me to protect you from the bullies, she said with a wry smile.Maiya? No. Nononono! Vir shouted. Please. Not you.Vir roared in pain and sobbed into her. He'd give anything. He'd give his own life to save her.And yet, there was nothing he could do. He could only watch. Maiya looked... divine in that moment. All trace of pain and sadness was gone, and only a gentle warmth overflowed from her body.Dont worry about me, Vir. I Maiya suddenly frowned in agony.No. Not agony. Concentration.What is this? Ekanai? she asked. Her eyes widened in realization. Her expression went from one of acceptance to confusion, to shock, and finally to sympathy. But the sympathy wasnt directed at Vir. I see, she said with a wry smile. So this was your plan all along.Vir didnt understand a single one of the emotions that flitted across her face. Her expression and her tone were no longer that of someone about to meet their death, but someone who'd just intuited something profound.Maiya? What's happening? Are youWhat are you doing? Ekanai rasped, and for the first time, there was fear in his voice. Stop! How are you even talking?Maiya turned her neck, smiling defiantly. Her hostility was mostly gone, replaced by a look that bordered on pity. It made no sense to Vir. If you think I wont help him, youve got another thing coming.Turning back to Vir, she spoke hurriedly. There isnt much time. Vir, listen to me. Its fear. You must learn to control your fear. Its the only way to win. To get out of this place. It will kill you if you let it.It? Maiya clearly wasnt referring to Ekanai. But if not him, then what?Stop! Youll ruin everything! Ekanai roared, thrusting his orb onto Maiyas back. Her essence flowed away faster, and she winced in pain. Vir could barely even make out her outline nowshe was so faint.Maiya, whatEkanai is not the real enemy. There is a way out. You can do this, Vir. Remember, you must overcome your fear!None of that matters. What about you? Vir asked, his face screwed up in anguish.There was a brilliant flash of white, and what was left of Maiyas body began to vanish, turning into white motes of prana, starting with her feet and moving up.Maiya held Virs face in her transparent hands and touched her forehead against his. Its okay. Its all going to be okay, Vir. Illbeokay.Her hands vanished, turning into motes of prana. Her face neared, and she planted a kiss on his lips. Then she was gone, leaving no trace she'd ever existed.Vir stared blankly as the last of her floated back to Ekanais orb, settling within it. The crystal now blazed dazzlingly with Maiyas Ice and Wind prana. Ekanai tossed it high into the air before catching it again.Vir felt sick.The demon grinned wickedly. And now, I have two things you value greatly. Your Artifact, and your friend. I truly did not believe it would be so easy to consume her.Im going to kill you, Vir said. It wasnt a threat. He was simply stating a fact. Inside, he felt nothing. Not anger, not even sadness. Just a hollow emptiness, the likes of which hed never experienced. Not when hed assassinated the slumlord Ravin. Not even when hed taken Head Priest Haraks life.Im going to end you, he repeated.You will no doubt try, Ekanai said, already slipping into a shadow. But you cannot kill me. Not as you are.And with that, Ekanai disappeared, taking with him the most precious person in Virs life.
