Black Fang
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Passage 6: “Am I My Brother’s Keeper?â€
Ikeia pushed Ban away and went toward the tabernacle. With his twin blades he sliced vertically across, destroying it to reveal the gold Rathnaya within. Ban moved forward to intercept, but Ikeia turned and slashed across his chest, sending him backward to the floor. Ikeia closed his hand over the Rathnaya and smiled in triumph behind his helmet.
“I winâ€
He kicked Ban in the chest, sending him back to the floor.
“And I will keep on winning. The next time you decide to fight someone clearly more skilled than you, refrain from doing so. Though groveling on the floor does seem to suit youâ€
“He kicked Ban again and headed out into the open. Exhausted from everything that had transpired, he cast off his armor and wearily got up to leave the chamber himself. By the time he reemerged, Ikeia, his companion and the Yakko were gone.
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Sako awoke and tried to recollect what had happened, surprised she was even still alive. She was no longer in the ravine, but tied in a sitting position to a stake in the middle of a camp near the western sea. It was already nightfall.
“What the hell!?â€
Then she saw a flag bearing the mark of Naphtali waving in the dark. She was in a Naphtalite camp! But how? Why? Why was she in bondage if she was among her own people?
She wanted answers now.
“Hey! What the hell is going on?!†she called out. The common soldiers gave her odd looks but didn’t reply. Then two figures came up to greet her. Sako gasped. She recognized them both: Ixion from the battle in Gad, and Seraph the Naphtalite king.
“The Judge of Naphtali, sire†said Ixion with a slight bow.
“Ah yes†said Seraph. “I’ve been wanting to meet you…â€
Sako gulped. She was starting to have a bad feeling about all of this…
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*Opening Theme plays*
(Seiju Sentai Gingaman OP Instrumental)
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Come morning Comic’s guests were already preparing to depart. While Ruth provided TFP with some provisions, the young prophet cast a glance at Kira and Chebar saying their good-byes.
“Do you know where you’re going?†asked Chebar the way an officer addressed a common soldier.â€
“He thinks the jewel went down south†said Kira, pointing back to TFP. “So I guess we’re going that way. Then we should try to meet with the others.†She noted the tone of which her fiancé spoke.
“Well?â€
“Well what?â€
“You have nothing else to say?â€
“Good luck.â€
“We may not see each other again for a long time.â€
“We may not see each other ever again†said Chebar.
“There you go! Would it kill you to show some emotion?â€
“You’re a soldier like me now, and this is war. So until this is won I should treat you as I would my fellow men. Romance must wait.â€
Kira wrapped him in a gentle hug and rested her head on his heart.
“I don’t want to wait†she said sadly.
Chebar saw TFP looking at them. Feeling uncomfortable, he untangled himself from Kira but allowed her to receive a kiss on her head. Kira smiled.
“Fight well.â€
Chebar laughed. “See? We’ll make a soldier of you yet.â€
He mounted a steed borrowed from Comic, who came up to bid him off.
“I still have friends in high places. If Zebulun needs allies, don’t hesitate to look here.â€
“Will do†said Chebar. Giving the respected former soldier a final salute, he rode off toward the southeast. Kira watched him go until he was out of sight.
Meanwhile Apha had already mounted Sarpiya.
“The demons have more than a head start on us. We should have left earlier†he muttered to TFP. TFP eyed the alien with suspicion. Though he had seemed oblivious, he had seen him staring at his and Kira’s Braces last night. He also remembered how he had coaxed him to use his jewel back in the tower. There was something nefarious about his new traveling companion. Kira appeared by their side on Ukussa.
“Ready?â€
TFP nodded and mounted Sarpiya in front of Alpha. After some final good-byes they too departed from Comic’s estate. Now Comic watched them fade into the distance, remembering their tale and the adventures of past days which he would never relive. Ruth saw the look on his face but held her tongue…
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Soon the three were out in the floodplains looking for some sign of the black Rathnaya’s whereabouts. Alpha sat quietly behind TFP, calculating his next moves, when Kira suddenly pointed to something afar.
“Look!â€
Black shapes lead by a cloud-like spirit were running after something above them. It didn’t take long for the group to guess who they were.
*Kattu theme plays*
(‘Kuro no Kikoushi’ from Ninja Sentai Kakuranger)
(‘Kuro no Kikoushi’ from Ninja Sentai Kakuranger)
Kuber’s Kattu were about to cross paths with them.
“Let’s move†said TFP. They galloped forward to meet them. TFP sent a wave of water to block the demons’ path. Some were splashed and disintegrated. The jewel continued on its way.
“That’s far enough.â€
The spirit cursed and condensed into the form of Kuber.
“How did you find us?!†he exclaimed astonishingly.
“Anyone could follow your trail of blood†the prophet sneered.
“Yes, such is his way†jeered a voice. “But did the wild man remember to cover his own tracks?â€
Mahasona appeared in the distance riding BalYakka, surprising now everyone.
“Nay, he did not. For my spies are already on your heels.â€
“What are you doing here?!†raged Kuber.
“Rectifying your mess. You should have left this to me after all, miser.â€
Kuber held his chatra in a chokehold as he glared at the bear-headed demon.
“Neither of you are getting that jewel†said TFP.
“Won’t I?†said Mahasona, cocking an eyebrow. “I seem to have a head start. What about you?â€
WandthuYakka and RilaoYakka then somersaulted in front of the Judges and cackled in the way characteristic of simians.
“Attack!†ordered Kuber.
The grunts charged. TFP and Alpha leapt down to counter them. As TFP grabbed a Kattu by the neck, he looked back to the still-mounted Kira.
“Don’t just sit there! Go after him!â€
Kira complied, steering Ukussa in the direction of Mahasona, galloping swiftly to catch up and transforming in a flash of light.
TFP and Alpha made short work of the grunts, but the two monkey YakkaJuu proved the bigger challenge. While Kuber was busy with Alpha, TFP leapt up for an attack on the two, only to be brought down again by the swings of scimitars from either side. Alpha watched him fight. He did not transform as he had before, but fought with raw strength. Why?
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*Falconger theme plays*
(‘Hikari no Senshi’ from Kamen Rider Black RX)
(‘Hikari no Senshi’ from Kamen Rider Black RX)
Mahasona took his eyes from the fleeing jewel long enough to see Kira catching up fast. The girl unfurled ToriKasaya and began to send lashes toward the demon. Mahasona conjured a shield and blocked the blows with little effort. Kira stiffened the whip into sword form and thrust it toward Mahasona. The dark knight blocked with his own sword, thus beginning a mounted duel between the two. BalYakka snapped at Ukussa, but the equine did not break her pace. Mahasona finally drew a hunting spear and stabbed it into Ukussa’s armor, the force sending her away. Kira fell off the steed to the ground, and using her whip brought Mahasona down as well.
The black jewel began to slow itself. It seemed to watch as demon and Judge fought below to possess it. Kira tired to flog Mahasona with rapid succession. But the demon, more experienced in the art of combat, went in close so as to avoid the blows, and cut across her body. Kira tried to retract the whip to form the sword again but wasn’t quick enough to parry the demon’s continuous swipes and jabs. A charged stab from his blade sent her to the ground in a stream of sparks and smoke. In a last-ditch effort, Kira sent a shower of blinding lights to wash over him. Mahasona was temporarily blinded, allowing Kira to leap forward and bring her sword down in a diagonal slash across his body. Mahasona caught the sword on his shield just in time. Grabbing Kira from behind, he bashed her head into the shield and threw her aside. ToriKasaya remained embedded in the shield. Seeing this, he wrenched it out, switched it to whip mode and ensnared Kira in its coils. He whistled for BalYakka, who was still engaged with Ukussa. The canine demon bounded toward him. Mahasona threw the whip handle in his mouth and let him begin dragging Kira away. Ukussa cried out and began following to rescue her mistress.
Mahasona snorted, then turned back to the black Rathnaya still hovering above. It began moving again, away from him.
“Not this time.â€
He leapt up and caught the jewel in a small box. Holding his prize tightly, he raised it above his head and laughed triumphantly….
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TFP and Alpha were back to back, Kuber and the monkeys circling around them.
“Why aren’t you using your jewel?†asked Alpha.
“Are you so interested in this stone?†replied TFP. “Perhaps you should be circling me as well.â€
Alpha blanched. Did he suspect him?
“He knows not to use what doesn’t belong to him†said Kuber.
“Neither does it to you!†said the prophet angrily.
“Are you going to keep chattering or can we kill them now?†asked RilaoYakka impatiently.
“You can try†said Alpha, conjuring his lance.
The monkeys brandished their swords and attacked from both sides. TFP watched silently for a moment. Then, before anyone knew it, he conjured HebiKalla and fired rapid bursts, one way and another. The monkeys ran right into them, and were thus vaporized instantly. Next TFP aimed at Kuber and fired a dozen bursts in quick succession. Kuber was sent flying backwards, unable to shield himself with his chatra in time.
“You should have done that from the start and saved us time†criticized Alpha.
TFP gave him a dark look, but before he could answer he saw BalYakka dragging Kira across the ground. He touched the cannon to his Brace, charging it to full power. A powerful burst of yellow fluid-like energy shot from the weapon, sending the canine off his feet and dropping the whip. TFP caught Kira as she tumbled toward him and Alpha.
“You alright?â€
A bruised Kira could only groan a reply.
BalYakka limped back to his master, who had appeared back in sight of the rest. The Judges and Alpha saw the box in his hand and knew what had happened.
“The race is won. The treasure mine. Do your hearts tremble now?â€
“You only have one of nine!†said Kira. “And you’re not getting ours!â€
“Not yet, not yet. But even one jewel can do things you still cannot guess.â€
“Stop your babbling and cut them down!†cried Kuber. “Avenge the two who have just fallen!â€
Mahasona seemed to pause for a moment. He should kill these interferers right now and take their Rathnaya. But another plan had started to take root in his mind.
“I fixed one mess for you, miser. You can fix this one yourself.â€
“He jumped on BalYakka and galloped away before the Judges could stop him. Kuber cursed and glared at them before disappearing himself in a cloud of smoke. TFP steadied Kira as she shed her armor and limped her way back to Ukussa. The jewel was lost. There was nothing else they could do.
“What now?†asked Kira.
“We should meet up with your friends†said TFP, remounting Sarpiya. “We ride further west toward the river. There we’ll send a signal for them to come.â€
‘He seems to be taking this well’, Kira thought as she watched him. She realized now that she didn’t even know who this man was. Her thoughts had been so consumed with Comic and Chebar that she hadn’t asked a word about him. But now was certainly not the time for such questions. The prophet and his alien companion were already on the move. Kira bade Ukussa to catch up…
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Gotembara was one of the Ten Giant Warriors, the most revered of the warriors in Canaanite legend. Upon their passing from the mortal world all but one had entered Ahasa, as such right they had earned. But Gotembara was not one to merely linger in heaven in perpetuity. He traversed the universe, observing and sometimes interacting with the people he encountered. If he could, he would assist those he found to be virtuous in whatever trouble they may have. He saw it as his own penance for the one great sin he had committed when alive. It had been during one of these sojourns across creation when Mahasona’s invasion of the Celestial Plane had gone underway. Like Sariputta, he too now found himself marooned in the mortal realm.
This evening, he inconspicuously made his way through a small Issachite town. There was no cheer in this place; a grimness overshadowed their minds and souls just as the specter of Gad loomed over their realm. He saw a few people, probably belonging to the northern clans, with blades beneath their cloaks as he went down the streets, as though ready to attack at any moment. But attack whom? Gotembara heard whispers of the clans having sided with Gad in their impending invasion. The Tribes of Canaan at war with each other, and the Yakko emerging in force once again. Jacob’s people had lost their way. That distressed the saint even more than being cut off from heaven.
A figure in a dark cloak caught his attention. He was behaving in a manner much like his own. He couldn’t see his face, but he recognized the graceful stride. Could it be? Another celestial being on Canaan? Careful not to lose sight of him, Gotembara began to follow the figure. They were soon outside the town and heading toward the wall of mountains a few miles away…
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Dark, heavy rain clouds covered the evening sky over Issachar. In a small grove overlooked by the mountain range between Issachar and Gad, Siddhartha waited as Sariputta had commanded. In the days since departing Sri Pada, he had been traveling in the northern parts of the realm, gathering whatever information he could. What he had heard did not sit well. Gad had a new leader, supposedly a Judge himself. Invasion of Reuben was imminent, and several Issachite clans were rumored to be allying with Gad as part of the latter’s plot to conquer that realm as well. And of course the Yakko were running amuck in their search for the Rathnaya, spreading death and mayhem. The prophet could only hope that the three Judges who were on Ahasa’s side had managed to survive thus far.
Sariputta became visible in the gathering gloom as he walked toward Siddhartha. A dark cloak kept his face and body from being seen. Siddhartha bowed down to the saint.
“Master, I regret to trouble you with this bad turn of events. But as you can see, the Tribes will soon war against each other, all the while your and their enemy goes unchecked. And yet even those who could stop them are now divided against themselves. This house will not stand. Tell me what you intend to do.â€
Sariputta pulled his hood back, revealing his heavenly face, and bade the prophet to rise. Being cut off from the Celestial Realm, he had been forced to trek the world of mortals. He kept himself hidden so as not to attract attention, even from those who were still pure of heart. Siddhartha saw displeasure radiate from the saint’s gaze. Not at him, but at the depravity he had witnessed from his travel amongst the people.
“I know. I've been watching. Perhaps we should just join the demons’ ranks†he said grimly. “There was one who did, long agoâ€, he added, his mind suddenly drifting back to another time and place.
“There may yet be a chance†said Siddhartha, bringing Sariputta back to reality. “I have pondered for a while whether one should head to Levi and seek the last heir to the Issachite throne.â€
“Levi?†repeated Sariputta. “Is that not your homeland?â€
“It is†said Siddhartha. “I have not been back for years.â€
“If Issachar’s heir survived, you suggest he be brought back to his Tribe?â€
“With the oligarchy’s return Issachar may still remain united, and be able to repel Gad’s advances.â€
“Break Gad of its covetous spirit and quench the fire of war, and the Tribes may be able to unite again†concluded Sariputta. “But the Judge of Gad himself leads his Tribe to attack its brothers. With such a power in his hands, he will be hard to bring down. Heavy is the chain he forges for himself with his sins. Only the other Judges can unfetter him.â€
“The Yakko gain in strength too quickly. Is it not possible to send down hosts from heaven?â€
Sariputta shook his head. “As I am now I cannot speak to my brethren above. But beware of demanding too much from Ahasa. The situation is more volatile than you could guess. You and Canaan have not even begun to see the worst of what’s to come…â€
Sariputta trailed off, looking towards the mountains.
“Tell me†he said after a moment. “What do you know about the 18 Sanniya?â€
The name of that dreaded bunch had sent a chill down Siddhartha's body even as a child hearing stories about them.
“You say even they could get involved?â€
“All I know is that they're not doing anything at the moment. I don't expect Ravana will summon those most deadly of demons until he really needs to. For now his generals are capable enough. But if they fail enough times, I am certain he will put that option on the table.â€
“Which means Ravana must be defeated quickly†concluded Siddhartha dejectedly. “That asks too much of the Judges. They are not yet ready for such a battle.â€
Sariputta nodded. “Even were they all united their chances would be slim. But fear not. Just as Ahasa has granted favor over you and those who kept their faith, so too will Canaan’s saviors be blessed.â€
And now, Siddhartha, I appoint you a new task.â€
“I am Ahasa’s servant.â€
“You will return to your home of Levi and find the heir of Issachar, for if Gad conquers that realm, the others will surely fall.â€
“Levi is miles northward and over the sea. How could I get there in time?â€
“I encountered two of a band of pirates that arrived on this world. Perhaps you could seek passage with them.â€
“The Horu? You ask me to tell those marauders that Ahasa commands they take me north? They would kill me in a second.â€
“That is well within their capability†said Sariputta. “But they shall not harm you.â€
“How do you know?†asked a skeptical Siddhartha.
“You’ll find a way. You’re quite the resourceful man.†said Sariputta.
A thunderbolt pierced the sky and let off a loud bang. Siddhartha looked around and saw another figure watching them in the distance. Sariputta smiled.
“You have been following me, Gotembara.â€
Gotembara came up to the higher saint and the prophet. Siddhartha bowed his head in acknowledgment.
“My apologies, Sariputta-hamu. I had to be sure it was you. Are you barred from seeing the Devas as well?â€
“Indeed. I was cast out while fighting Mahasona.â€
“The Yakko invaded Ahasa??â€
“They tried. But their damage is done. As long as the Celestial Plane remains contaminated, we cannot return. All we can do is aid the Judges and quell this war between the Tribes. Show them the light before they are consumed.â€
“What can I do?â€
“Someone must keep an eye on the Judges. You were a warrior in your mortal life. You’re the perfect one for the job.â€
“You honor me, Hamu.â€
“Then go forth. I shall see you both again soon.â€
“Where are you going?†asked Siddhartha.
“Reuben and Issachar will soon fall. Simeon must be looked after, so it is there I go.â€
“How will you avoid the Gadites and Yakko?â€
“Let me worry about that. You do what you must. Farewell.â€
Another flash of lightning. Sariputta was gone. Alone and getting drenched, Siddhartha and Gotembara went off quickly to find some cover from the downpour. Questions flooded Siddhartha’s mind as he went alongside the saint, but he held his tongue. Perhaps another time he could ask all that he desired to…
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Back in the Gadite camp, as the rain battered the tents and formed large puddles of water all around, Ikeia and Mara stood on either side of a square table. The gold Rathnaya lay on a small wand-like pedestal enclosed by a transparent sphere. The jewel continued to glow dimly, giving its capsule the appearance of a kerosene lamp.
“It looks like a sun itself†said Ikeia quietly, more to himself than to Mara. The woman though smiled at the remark.
“And once you take all of Canaan you will be like a sun yourself. Gad will shine over his brothers, and they will know that he, not Joseph, was the greatest among them.â€
“First things first†said Ikeia, reigning in the ambition that Mara had planted in him. “We still haven’t attacked Reuben.â€
“They will go down easily. And the rebellious Issachite clans have already pledged their loyalty to Gad. All you need worry about now are the more formidable of your brothers.â€
“And so you lead me to this jewel.â€
Ikeia brought his Brace in front of him.
“The moon in my left hand and the sun in my right.â€
Mara picked up a map of Canaan and spread it over the table.
“Once Reuben is taken we can spread westward through Simeon. That way we control the MahaweliGanga and isolate Dan, Asher, Judah and Zebulun. And of those four, Dan and Judah have weakened the most from their old grandeur.â€
“Zebulun will be on its guard after our attack on their delegation.†noted Ikeia.
“Their strength is the sea. Blockade their harbors and attack their ships, then invade by land. They won’t be much of a threat to you after that. As for Asher, destroy their farmland and salt the ground after you, and they will soon starve.â€
Ikeia marveled at this woman. Clearly she was a sound military tactician. Where did she come from? Who was she? And why did she want to help him?
“Do you doubt me, Lord?â€
Ikeia shook his head. Don’t bite the hand that’s feeding you. She’s giving you the keys for domination. Seize the opportunity.
“No. But what about the Judges?â€
“You saw them yourself today. They’re disorganized amateurs. We can pick them off easily enough.â€
“More will appear.â€
Mara came up close to Ikeia and touched his arm.
“And you will chop them down one by one.â€
Ikeia looked into her eyes. She was fairly attractive now that he thought about it. He felt the light brush of her skin as she slid her hand down and off his arm.
“What do I do with this jewel then?†he asked, indicating the gold Rathnaya. “I’m already bonded to one. How do I use it?â€
Mara looked directly at Ikeia.
“Do you know about Elisha’s Axe?â€
Ikeia’s eyebrows shot up. The axe of the great prophet Elisha, claimed to have had magical powers, shattered to pieces two centuries ago and coveted by Gad. Now it lay deep inside some vault in the High Council’s hall. Prophecy foretold the day it would be forged anew. Did this woman ask of him to fulfill it?
“You want me to remake it.â€
“Forge it again with the jewel within, and your power will be indomitable. Sun and moon come together to darken the world in their eclipse.â€
“Those shards haven’t been touched in 200 yearsâ€
“You’re the Judge of Gad. Who amongst your brethren would oppose their leader taking up the heirloom of Elisha himself? To use it to bring them to greatness? Surely you don’t fear those in the Council who opposed you?â€
“Of course not†Ikeia snapped. “I’ve done more these few days than they’re done in years. But not for me Reuben would still be standing unafraid of us.â€
“Then you know what you need.â€
Ikeia paused. He placed his hand rather firmly over Mara’s as she rubbed it over the spherical capsule above the jewel.
“I will rebuild it myself.â€
“Gad’s leader is strong.â€
“….I am.â€
He brushed her hand away and looked upon her face and body. Strange desires began to flood his mind, interrupted only by the arrival of a scout.
“Lord?â€
“What is it?â€
The scout went past Mara and whispered to his leader.
“We’ve spotted some Napthalite ships on Issachar’s coast. There’s a camp near the mountains. We think their king himself is there.â€
“Seraph is there?†said Ikeia in bemusement. “That coward actually left his island?â€
“Not such a coward anymore, it would seem†said Mara.
“Meaning what?â€
“Isn’t it obvious? Such blatant landing of troops so close to Gad, close to your Issachite allies? Surely he’s thinking of some kind of attack.â€
“He couldn’t attack a rabbit. Still, a show of power wouldn’t be unwarranted. He’s given us an excuse for a counterstrike.†Turning back to the scout, he said “Take a company down there and attack their camp. I’m sure we can spare a few men from our fight with Reuben.â€
The scout saluted and went to comply with his orders. Mara smiled, and Ikeia’s mind returned to other, more sensual thoughts…
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It was a sleepless night for Kiliana and Ban as they seared all around for Sako. The ravine floor was littered with remains of animals. Once or twice they saw the bones of anthropoids. There were definite signs of recent activity down here, but no trace of Sako could be found.
“What would anyone be doing in a place like this?†Ban asked.
“Look at this†said Kiliana, ignoring the question. She showed him a spearhead that had somehow been left on the floor.
“This is from a Naphtalite spear. You can tell by how it’s cut.â€
“But is it recent?â€
“It looks freshly made. And it’s near all these footprints†She indicated the stream of footprints on the dusty floor.
“So a bunch of Naphtalites took Sako?†said Ban. “Why? What are they even doing here?â€
“We can ask them when we find them.â€
They followed the footprints to a wall of the ravine and began the long climb out. From there they and their steeds followed the path they had trod. Hours later, they finally found their target: a small Naphtalite camp on the western edges of Issachar.
“Right on Gad’s doorstep†remarked Kiliana. “Are they crazy?â€
“Do you see Sako?†asked Ban.
Kiliana shook her head. On the other side of the mountains they then heard distant sounds. They ducked out of sight of a Naphtalite centurion and went over to the otherside of the mountain overlooking Gad. Kiliana gasped: the invasion army was already beginning to cross over the MoriGanga.
“Just our luck†muttered Ban. Kiliana said nothing. “Come on, if we get Sako now we might be able to get down there before they - â€
“We won’t make it in time. You go get Sako, I’ll go try to delay them.â€
“By myself? You’re the one who knows what’s going on, not me.â€
“I have to stop this invasion.â€
“You can’t. Besides, Jacob said - â€
“I know what he said. But how can they expect me to do nothing? And weren’t you the one saying we should stay and fight?â€
“That was when we were all together and facing them. Now it’s just us three. Or two. We have to get Sako out of there.â€
“It’s a Naphtalite camp. They’re not going to harm her.â€
“Yeah? I still don’t think I could just waltz in there and ask for her back.â€
Kiliana sighed.
“Reuben’s my home. The only one I have left. I’m not going to do nothing if I can help it.â€
“Look, I get it†said Ban, thinking of Earth so far away. “But how are you going to stop them? You’re completely outnumbered.â€
“If I could capture their leader, I may have a chance. I have to take it.â€
“But - â€
“Please.â€
Ban wiped his sweaty face with his hand. He didn’t like this one bit. But he knew Kiliana had made up her mind.
“Just try not to get killed.â€
Kiliana smirked.
“Likewise.â€
Thalmaha gave a nervous whinny. Kiliana patted her on the side of her head.
“Stay here and keep watch.â€
She began making her way down the slope into Gadite territory. Ban mounted Makara.
“Come on boy.â€
Makara and Muwa seemed as unsure as Ban, but began to descend down the other slope with him toward Issachar…
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Seraph and Ixion appeared before Sako as afternoon passed into evening. The girl was still tied to her stake within a tent, and apparently asleep. Ixion shook her awake.
“Wake up†he said gruffly.
Sako stirred reluctantly. She looked up at the two men and gulped.
“Have you made a decision?†asked Seraph.
Sako paused, recalling the meeting they had had the previous night. Seraph had placed her under harsh interrogation, demanding to know how it was she had received her Rathnaya. Sako had tried her best to answer, but each time made the young monarch even more irritated. He berated her, calling her unworthy of such a sacred title. Sako lowered her head in concord, partly out of fear of retaliation, partly because she agreed with him. What was she doing with this jewel? She hadn’t done anything great with it. Her last battle had ended with her tumbling into a ravine. Who was she to defend against his accusations? With Ixion watching silently behind him, Seraph had demanded that the girl surrender her jewel to him, the rightful heir. Despite her feelings, Sako had felt reluctant to comply. Ixion, who for some reason seemed particularly impatient, would have slain her then and there, but Seraph stayed his hand. He said he would give her one day to consider his offer.
“Your king asked you a question†snapped Ixion.
“Enough†said Seraph. He knelt down to face Sako.
“Your family has no idea where you’ve been, have they?â€
Sako shook her head. What could they be thinking right now? Maybe they thought she was dead. Kidnapped. Lost in those dreaded caves.
“Wouldn’t you like to go back to them and forget this whole thing? You said it yourself, you didn’t ask for this jewel. You know it doesn’t belong to you.â€
Sako looked from Seraph to her Brace.
“Give it to me and I can safeguard our kingdom. And you can be what you were meant to be.â€
Sako paused for another moment. Ixion flexed his fingers.
“Alright, take it. If you bring me home I’ll give it to you.â€
“You have my word.â€
Seraph cut the cord around Sako’s hands. She gripped her Brace and with some effort managed to pry it off her. Ixion made a move forward but Seraph beat him to it. He picked up the Brace and gazed upon it. The jewel within began to activate and released a burst of energy. It was rejecting the boy king. Seraph cursed and dropped the Brace to the ground. Seizing his chance, Ixion grabbed it. His body was able to withstand the energy surges.
“It seems it doesn’t want to cooperate†said he.
“Well how do we use it then?†asked Seraph.
“Do what you should have done before. Kill her and the bond between them will sever.â€
“You want me to kill one of my own?â€
“You wanted the jewel, didn’t you? This is the only way you can get it. Are you going to back out now because you don’t want to shed some blood? You are king. Act like one for once in your miserable life!â€
“You dare talk to me like that?!†huffed Seraph. But Ixion only laughed at the weak attempt at intimidation.
“The whole world has been mocking you. Open your eyes, you fool. You are nothing. Your tribe is nothing. And tonight you will die here.â€
“What are you talk….. you tricked me!â€
“Brilliant observation. Yes, I brought you down here. Right on Gad’s doorstep. I don’t think they’d be happy to be such an affront to their sovereignty.â€
“But why??â€
“Why? Because I want the Rathnaya like everyone else. And anything I can do to add to this dirtball’s chaos, count me in. If I don’t kill you, the Gadites or their Issachite allies certainly will.â€
Seraph pounced on Ixion and tried to grab the Brace, but was simply thrown out of the tent into the open. The soldiers stood in place, wondering what to do as Ixion came toward their king. Sako emerged from the tent and looked on nervously. Seeing her, Ixion grabbed her by the throat.
“I’ll start with you.â€
Sako choked and kicked at her captor. Ixion raised his fist for a finishing blow, but was suddenly thrown back by a wave of fire. He dropped Sako and raged. Sako turned around to see Ban riding in on Makara.
“Ban!â€
“Looks like I just made it.â€
“Who the hell are you?†demanded Seraph.
“The Judge of Simeon†Ixion answered for Ban. He glowered at him.
“Hey, weren’t you on our side before?â€
“I’m on no one’s side but my own. Now, will you hand over your jewel or shall I take that as well?â€
“Why does everyone want these things?†asked Ban rhetorically. He eyed Sako’s Brace in Ixion’s hand.
“I’m going to have to ask for that back. And you… Majesty?†he addressed to Seraph. “Kindly let me take Sako back with us. Taking her wasn’t very nice.â€
“No one’s going anywhere with that jewel†yelled Seraph, pointing at Sako’s Brace.
“That include you?†said Ixion dangerously. “I’d be happy to oblige.â€
Ban groaned. This wasn’t part of the plan.
“Look, I don’t want a fight. Just give me the girl and the jewel and we can all - â€
“Majesty!†said a centurion suddenly as he ran up to Seraph.
“What now?†asked the king irritably.
“There’s a band of armed Gadites coming down the mountains toward us!â€
“What?!â€
“What did I tell you?†said Ixion.
“Assemble everyone together. We’re making a stand here.â€
“Sire, they outnumber us - â€
“No one is going to say I ran in the face of danger. Now go!â€
The centurion looked about to object, but he followed his king’s orders.
“You three. Help us fight them off and I might be lenient towards you.â€
Ixion laughed. “You are in no position to bargain here - â€
A projectile then came and exploded in the middle of the ground, sending all four of them backwards. An artillery team had positioned themselves in the lower levels of the mountains, which were still high above the camp, away from their firing range. This gave them a crucial advantage.
“Damnit! They’re here already!â€
The Gadites had attacked before the Naphtalites could even begin to mount a defense. The camp descended into chaos. Ban saw Ixion begin to make a run for it, and Sako was suddenly heading toward the battle.
“Sako! Get back here!â€
But she continued going on. Ban cursed and went after Ixion, tackling him from behind and wrestling for the Brace. Ixion landed a hard punch to Ban’s face, making him fall back. Wondering how his nose managed to not be broken from such a blow, drew RyuKaduwa and took a wild swing. Ixion caught the blade on his arm.
“Do you really want to tempt fate?â€
“No. I just want that Brace.â€
“The brat didn’t even want it. Will you force it upon her?â€
“I don’t want mine either†said Ban. He brought his Brace arm over his sword and ignited the bladeâ€
“But I sure as hell wouldn’t give it to you.â€
He pressed the flaming sword down, cutting through Ixion’s arm and leaving a deep, steaming gash in his chest armor. As Ixion’s armor sparked burned, Ban gave another horizontal slash, cutting across his collarbone, and ended with a stab to his heart. Ixion shrieked and grabbed Ban’s arm in a vice grip, but the damage was done. He began to fade back into his belt. The charred armor broke off and shattered into twisted black pieces on the ground. The unconscious body of Cheiron slumped in the center. Ban looked down at the pirate. He should just leave him to the mercy of the Gadites. But in the off chance he escaped, he would go right back to pursuing them for their jewels. Not this time, thought Ban. This whole ridiculous adventure was more than crazy enough without this guy adding to the mix. Finding some shackles that happened to be available, Ban placed them over Cheiron’s wrists and feet, then bade Makara to take him upon his back. Makara seemed to frown.
“If he’s with us, he can’t cause any trouble†Ban reasoned. He then ran to find Sako.
Sako, in an attempt to be of some use to someone, had tried to help her fellow tribesmen. But she had ended up simply getting in the way. Without an organized defense, everyone was just running in random directions, simply trying to survive. Sako was pushed, prodded, and knocked aside in the mayhem. She took a bow and tried to fire at any nearby Gadite infantryman, but couldn’t manage to hit one. One frantic, unarmed soldier then took her bow and left her in the dirt. At last Ban managed to find her.
“I don’t know who’s crazier, you or these nuts. Come on, let’s get outta hereâ€
“We have to fight - â€
“No we don’t! This was lost before it began. Even I can see that. Unless you have a death wish, we have to leave now!â€
“I can’t leave them behind!†yelled Sako. Her fellow Naphtalites continued to put up a desperate front and getting mowed down in the process.
“Seems to me they only wanted you for this†said Ban, holding up her Brace.
“Seraph can have it! I don’t belong here!â€
“Join the club.â€
Another explosion went off just a few feet away.
“Come on!â€
“But-â€
“NOW!â€
He grabbed Sako by the wrist too roughly for her taste and dragged her out of the fray. Muwa was waiting with Makara and the unconscious Cheiron as they arrived. Sako gasped.
“Don’t worry, he can’t do anything now.â€
He leapt on his steed and was about to ride off when they heard a loud wail. In the distance he could see a Gadite waving Seraph’s crown over his head in a victory call. Naphtali’s king had fallen.
Sako made a move to go back in, but Muwa bore her safely away. But she continued to look back at the destruction of the camp. Her brethren. Her king. Massacred by a savage team. And she could do nothing. She never could do anything. And without her Rathnaya, she hadn’t been worth a second glance to them.
And they didn’t seem worth a second glance to Ban…
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kiliana snuck around the outskirts of the camp as the soldiers were distracted with moving out toward and across the river. The commander’s tent was still erected, indicating that he was still somewhere on the grounds. The tricky part would be finding and subduing him, at worst killing him. Whatever it took to spare her brethren from sure defeat.
As luck would have it, her search didn’t take long. Making her way further inside through a large patch of gravel, she heard the ever so soft footfalls of someone behind her. Dutifully masked as she herself had done, but not enough to escape her ears. She turned around to see Ikeia standing there, unarmed. Kiliana stood rooted in surprise for a moment, having not expected to encounter her quarry so suddenly. She knew he was the commander from the colors he wore. But the Judge’s crown, the giveaway of his true position, was absent and thus unknown to her.
"A Reubenite spy? What, do you think you can sabotage me when I’ve already caught you?"
“No one sent me. I’m here of my accord.â€
Ikeia cocked his eyebrow.
“So what then? You plan to kill me? You think that can save your kind?â€
“If that’s what it takes.â€
Ikeia snorted. But then he gave the girl before him another look. Something about her face seemed to strike him. He was sure he had seen it somewhere.
“….We’ve met before.â€
“What are you talking about?†asked Kiliana.
“I saw your face when I was a boy.â€
Kiliana looked on in confusion.
“Are you… Kiliana?â€
Kiliana now focused on Ikeia’s face. Now that he mentioned it…. there was something familiar about him.
*BGM plays*
(‘New Star wa Koushinsei’ from Gosei Sentai Dairanger)
(‘New Star wa Koushinsei’ from Gosei Sentai Dairanger)
She reverted back to a little girl, an orphan fresh from the war that decimated Benjamin, brought to Reuben by her adoptees. Regarded as a curiosity by the other children but never fully accepted. Alone and homesick, she would often go off by herself to the river MoriGanga. Sometimes, if the isolation was so great and she was daring enough, she would cross the river herself and wander Gad’s shoreline. It was in those days when she had met a Gadite boy who lived nearby. He was like her, estranged and alone. She should have hated him at once; but instead they had started to become friendly, if for no other reason than they had no one else. Day after day, month after month. Until one day the boy told her he could not see her anymore. He was to be raised as a soldier and would be leaving his home. She had not understood. She cried for him to stay, but he was resolute. Or he was trying to feign it: she remembered seeing his back bruised and marred.
She wept for many days after that. Again she was alone. But such was the way with children, in time she began to forget him. She too would begin to be raised in her destined role. But now here was this man who looked like that boy, and it all came back to her. Those had been happy days.
“… Ikeia?â€
Ikeia nodded. He even flashed a smile. For one moment, they had forgotten the present.
“You’ve grown†he said, taking in the sight of this woman who was once his friend.
“So have you.â€
“Look at what I’ve become. Do you still weep for me now?â€
Kiliana remembered again what was traspiring, and her expression became dour again.
“Not for you. But I do weep for those who will fall under you.â€
“You would waste your tears on the weak?â€
“Strength is not measured by armies alone.â€
“I see the old fools have twisted your mind all these years.â€
“You thought that way once. You told me so.â€
“I grew up.â€
A distant cannon blast momentarily perturbed their exchange. Kiliana shifted her feet, expecting a fight to break out any moment.
“So what will you do now that you’ve discovered me again? Can you still fight me?â€
“I don’t want to…â€
“Then I will kill you right here.â€
*BGM plays*
(‘Kaibutsu Kyoko’ from Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger)
(‘Kaibutsu Kyoko’ from Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger)
Kiliana looked in sad horror. Would he really? Could he truly feel nothing?
“You asked me if I could kill you. But could you really kill me? Just so you can be a king over your brothers?â€
“My people will rule you and show that Gad was the greatest amongst them! Now look over that river on which we used to play and see Reuben burn as I cut you down here.â€
Ikeia drew his twin swords. Kiliana placed her hands together and focused her Elemental Power through them. Before Ikeia could strike, she fired a bolt of lightning at him. Ikeia extended his arms and an image of the moon appeared to block the attack. Kiliana was dumbfounded. How could he have…. No, no. Could it be?
Ikeia charged forward. Kiliana darted forward to meet him. Once she was within range, she cocked back her left fist and let it fly at Ikeia's face, hitting him dead-on. Ikeia rolled across the ground. Growling, he pulled himself up by stabbing one sword into the rocky ground and sent a silver energy blade from the other sword at Kiliana. She quickly rolled to one side, watching as the blade cut a deep trench into the earth. In response she fired another lightning blast at him. Ikeia jumped above it and, as he descended back toward the surface, combined his two swords into the KirinRauma and threw it at Kiliana. She dodged, but not before the round blade cut her across her right eye. An explosion of dust and sparks erupted from where it hit the ground.
Ikeia was already charging toward her. No time to examine her wound, Kiliana went to meet him. Blood was already dripping into her eye, precluding her sight and dangerously inhibiting her. The two locked themselves in a duel of fists and blades. Ikeia had trained hard and well, that she could see. But she had been well trained herself. As Ikeia reverted his chakram to twin swords again and brought them down over her, she caught him by the wrists, twisted his arms and gave him a jump kick to the chest and stomach. Ikeia stumbled back, dropping one sword in the process. Kiliana caught this sword and swung and stabbed at Ikeia. Quick to recover, Ikeia blocked with his remaining sword. Blades clashed and dust was kicked up. Ikeia finally managed to outmaneuver Kiliana so as to throw her off balance. Quick to take advantage, he jumped up and kicked with both feet her torso, sending her sliding on the ground. He picked up his other sword which she had dropped and gave her a mocking look of pity.
“Do you see now how weak you are? Can you really be so surprised that we’ve moved in to displace you? Come on! Cut me once if you can’t kill me! I’ll make it easier for you.â€
Kiliana glowered at Ikeia with her good eye. She hastily wiped the blood out of her other eye, but it was beginning to sting her badly. Ikeia grinned widely. He removed the coverings over his arms and Kiliana could now see the Jewel Brace on his wrist. Another surprise. So he was the one Ban had fought in Dambulla. The Judge of Gad’s armor appeared over Ikeia with a flash of white lunar light.
“On second thought, harder is more fun.â€
Kiliana staggered to her feet and transformed herself. KujiPaliya appeared on her arm.
*Levianger theme plays*
(‘Spark! Umi e Instrumental’ from Chouju Sentai Liveman)
(‘Spark! Umi e Instrumental’ from Chouju Sentai Liveman)
Now Ikeia was surprised, and intrigued. So she too had become a Judge. Fate was a funny thing.
The duel began anew. Ikeia combined his swords again, but this time left them unfolded so that they formed a small double-edged halberd. He concentrated and charged the weapon full of energy. As it began to tremble with power, he twirled and stabbed it toward Kiliana, who blocked as best as she could with her shield. The energy of both weapons was released in brilliant flashes at the points of impact. Kiliana released the blade of her shield and tried to push Ikeia backward with continuous blows. Ikeia cocked an eyebrow beneath his helmet. She was getting more desperate.
A beam of energy finally broke up the two duelists. Ikeia rolled to his feet, while Kiliana sprawled on the ground. Mara was approaching them from the distance, the gold Rathnaya within its enclosure in her hand.
“Really, Lord, are you having this much trouble with one girl? You should have disposed of her the moment you saw her.â€
Ikeia scowled. “You’ve been watching me?â€
“Someone has to look after you.â€
Kiliana slowly picked herself up.
“Did I say you could stand?â€
She sent a cascade of energy from the vibrating jewel down on Kiliana. Sparks erupted from Kiliana’s armor as she took the blow. Ikeia touched KirinRauma to the Brace on his arm, charging it up with silver-white light, and ran up to Kiliana, sending two slashes of his charged halberd down over her body. Sun and Moon. Night and Day.
Kiliana felt the blades cut through her armor and into her torso. Her right eye was now almost completely blinded by the dripping blood. Now she felt a sharp blow to her head as Ikeia struck her with his fist and collapsed onto the rocks. Her armor disappeared, revealing her shuddering, panting form. Ikeia loomed over her, one blade pointed toward her throat. He ground his foot into her stomach, making her wince even more.
“I asked if you wept for me. I did for you once. But now I know my father was right. Reuben’s curse still lir weak hide. I have no more tears for you.â€
Kiliana looked with her good eye into Ikeia’s face. Was thus truly the kind-hearted boy whom she had once knew?
Mara came up beside him.
“What are you waiting for? End this.â€
“What?â€
“Kill her like you should have before, and take her jewel as your prize.â€
Ikeia seemed to hesitate. Kiliana waited for the finishing blow.
“In a few hours Reuben will be yours. You should be there to see their victory. Don’t waste any more time with this refuse.â€
Ikeia paused.
“No.â€
“No?â€
“Kill her now and spare her the sight of her Tribe burning? We want to show our enemies that they were wrong to oppose us in the first place. Let her keep her jewel. Let her and her friends try to resist. She will soon wish that I killed her here.â€
Mara seemed to stiffen for a moment but then smiled in agreement. Kiliana hid her face from her as the woman crouched down and stroked her hair.
“Such a delicate thing you are.â€
She then noticed her necklace with the mark of Benjamin hanging off. Before Kiliana could resist, Mara tore the chain off her neck and dangled it above her.
“Oh? So you’re a Benjamite after all? That should make this doubly painful, shouldn’t it?â€
The woman’s cruel smile sickened her. Kiliana tried to get up and take back her one remaining tie to her home, to wring this witch’s neck. But Mara just kicked her back to the ground with laugh. Taking Ikeia’s hand, she led him away from the camp toward the river. Ikeia did not look back.
Angry tears now mixed with the blood. Kiliana crawled and stumbled back toward the mountains as best she could. But her strength waned fast. She collapsed and lay still, fading in and out of consciousness. When she opened her eyes again, she felt herself lying on the back of Thalmaha as she carefully bore her mistress out of Gad and toward the safety of the mountains. Soreness paralyzed her. She drifted back into oblivion…
TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme 1 plays*
(‘Hibi no Shirabe’ from Hyakuju Sentai Gaoranger)
Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme 1 plays*
(‘Yokoku Ongaku 2’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
The five Judges regroup and make plans to go on the offensive against the Yakko; Mahasona collaborates with Ravana’s enemies to reinvade Ahasa with the black Rathnaya’s power.
*Ending Theme 1 plays*
(‘Hibi no Shirabe’ from Hyakuju Sentai Gaoranger)
Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme 1 plays*
(‘Yokoku Ongaku 2’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
The five Judges regroup and make plans to go on the offensive against the Yakko; Mahasona collaborates with Ravana’s enemies to reinvade Ahasa with the black Rathnaya’s power.
