Black Fang
Active Member
Passage 16: “Not By Might Nor By Power, But By My Spiritâ€
An earthquake shook Bahirawakanda to its very foundation. The denizens of the dreaded mountain watched and scurried in horror as architecture began to collapse. In the throne chamber, some of the surrounding benches above the stage shattered and avalanched. Kuber and Mohini ducked as the upper level caved in and collapsed all around them. A deep crack ran down Bahirawa’s throne. Outside the mountain, the fog that had once shrouded it slowly began to lift. The feeling of coldness and essence of dread on the slopes also seemed to melt away. The host in attendance witnessed in fear and awe at what had just transpired. Bahirawa the Devourer, king of the mountain, was no more.
*BGM plays*
(‘Taitei Ra Deus’ from Chousinsei Flashman)
(‘Taitei Ra Deus’ from Chousinsei Flashman)
“Bahirawa…†Kuber began, but couldn’t finish. The shock was too great.
“He is dead.†Mohini finished for him. A chilling silence filled the chamber.
Ravana then appeared and slowly walked past his subjects, who stepped back a respectful distance.
“Raja… Bahirawa - â€
“Yes, I know†said the king, is back turned to them. The Yakko waited for Ravana to say something more. With the black Rathnaya lost, his wrath was sure to be terrible. They were surprised when he slowly began to laugh, as though things were going well.
“Raja?†asked Mohini.
“Mohini†Ravana addressed loudly. “Bring out your YakkaJins.â€
Without her prompting though, the YakkaJins emerged onto the stage and assembled before Mohini and Ravana. Ravana looked upon each one of them.
“Your turn has now come.â€
“Bahirawa-hamu shall be avenged†Aturu answered simply. “And the Rathnaya will be ours.â€
“I shall hold you to that.†Ravana turned to the broken throne of Bahirawa. With a long sword he began to cut it down and carve out a larger one. Once done, he sat down and looked out over his followers, and continued to laugh. The YakkaJins smiled to each other…
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*BGM plays*
(‘Furusato yo! Naze oretachi wo kobamu no da...’ from Chousinsei Flashman)
(‘Furusato yo! Naze oretachi wo kobamu no da...’ from Chousinsei Flashman)
“Bahirawa is dead†HiriYakka repeated the message of a conscripted Kattu. Maha Swarna Karkatahaya overheard and screeched in irritation. White foam issued from the monstrous crab’s mouth.
“Yes, I’m sure you were looking forward to avenging yourself on him, but some things can’t be helped. You’ll have to satisfy yourself with the rest of Ravana’s horde.â€
“Any word on Kumbhakarna-hamu?†asked GaraYakka, who was bent over in labor.
“He says he will join us on the day we attack.â€
“He still has reservations about us†said GaraYakka observedly.
“Perhaps. But he will be there nonetheless.â€
GaraYakka stood up, his creation finished. It was a giant mechanical claw with built-in cannon, forged through his skill in magic, technology and metalmongery. GaraYakka presented the giant crab his new prosthetic appendage and set to work implanting it onto his body. Once completed, the crab tested it out by firing the cannon at several rocks, shattering them to pieces. He then picked up some debris and crushed it into fine grains. The two rebellious Yakko smiled at the sight, and Maha Swarna Karkatahaya issued a shriek of bloodlust…
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*Opening Theme plays*
(Seiju Sentai Gingaman OP Instrumental)
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Comic slowly awoke from a restless sleep. Looking outside, he saw that it still nighttime, and squinted from the particularly bright moon rolling above. For the first time in a long while, Kalu Kumara hadn’t haunted his dreams. Yet he still could not find peace in slumber. His mind kept drifting back to Ruth. The estate wasn’t too far south from here. If he rode fast he could check up on her, he reasoned as he lay on his mat. But what would she say of him leaving his troops and the Judges? Not even for her would she want him to desert them.
So Comic did not carry out his desire, but he couldn’t fall asleep again either. At last he gave up and decided to take a nighttime stroll.
*BGM plays*
(‘Senshi no Kyuujitsu’ from Gosei Sentai Dairanger)
(‘Senshi no Kyuujitsu’ from Gosei Sentai Dairanger)
He eventually found he was not the only one up and about. Gotembara and Yoroi were sitting on a large hill outside the city. In the olden days, a fortress had rested upon that ground. Now all that remained were a few bricks and broken walls. As he climbed up to meet them, Comic looked out across Asher’s landscape. The worst of the war was still to come. Despite the victories against the Yakko, the Contamination of the Celestial Realm persisted. What they needed was a way to strike at their heart.
Gotembara looked skyward and with his celestial sight, gazed briefly into Ahasa itself. He saw great legions of heavenly hosts prepared for battle. No further proof was needed to claim the seriousness of the situation.
“What do you see?†asked Yoroi.
“I see an army amassing. Soon the world will behold a host descending down to meet their enemy.â€
“I’d rather they do it now and get it over with.â€
Gotembara turned to him. “What shall you do from here on?â€
“The Horu are still my primary concern. From that you cannot divert me from†Yoroi answered firmly. “But I won’t take the jewels from these people. And if I can help you fight the Yakko, I shall.â€
Gotembara nodded approvingly. “The Judges could use a man like you on their side.â€
He noted Garasu asleep next to Yoroi’s ship. “It was you who took Obelisk to Sri Pada.â€
“Yes…†Yoroi neglected to mention Alpha. He didn’t feel like talking about him at the moment.
“That man is important for defeating Gad.â€
“Do you think he can restore Issachar?â€
“For that, you’ll have to wait and see.â€
Comic now stepped in behind them.
“I apologize†he said with a slight respectful bow of the head. “I didn’t mean to interrupt.â€
“You aren’t†said the saint, inviting Comic to join them. “I see there is no sleep for you tonight either.â€
“There’s something in the air†answered the veteran. “I fear something bad will happen soon.â€
“Like what?†asked Yoroi.
“I don’t know†said Comic, shaking his head. “But I’ve been in this business before. You can feel when things are going to get rough.â€
Yoroi could empathize. They both turned to Gotembara for some consolation.
“Don’t let the darkness cast its shadow on you†said the saint. “But cast your own shadow on it.â€
He was looking skyward. Yoroi and Comic followed his gaze and saw the black star Hewanalla shining above. Soon after, the black Rathnaya came into view and hovered in front of Comic and Yoroi…
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Kuber walked down a lone, unlit dirt road near Bahirawakanda. Now with Bahirawa gone and the YakkaJins fully assembled, the favor of Ravana had gone to Mohini. That left him, Kuber, in an uncomfortable position. His most recent excursion had resulted in a failure to kill Obelisk. Now that Yoroi seemed to be siding with the Judges instead of single-mindedly pursuing those Horu pirates. Ravana might find him expendable now, even despite the long years of loyalty to him after his family broke up over the feud with Vesamunu, not to mention the impeccability of his maintenance of the treasury. Kuber needed an edge to ensure his position. So preoccupied was he that e didn’t notice until the last second a scythe that had appeared at his throat.
“Kuber, Kuber†mocked Ixion from behind, as though he were an old friend. “As bumbling and unaware as ever!â€
Kuber knocked the weapon away and spun around.
“So you have taken that body back?â€
“With great effort, yes. I’ve been dormant far too long.â€
“What do you want†asked the demon, irate at the intrusion.
“Now, now, Kuber! Such a temper doesn't suit one of your class†Ixion chastised. “I've come to ask a favor.â€
“What makes you think I would help you?†asked Imperious. “You’re not exactly known for keeping your word.â€
“This body won't last me for long†Ixion explained. “Cheiron may eventually take over once more. I need the aid of someone like you when that happens. Someone who knows how to grant me a corporeal form again. One of my very own without need of a host.â€
“And if I help you, what can you offer me?â€
Ixion took out a card: Death. He ran it through his belt and the transformation that Kuber witnessed was truly heinous.
“What do you call this form?†asked Kuber, trying to hide the enthusiasm from his voice.
“This†Ixion began. “is Minos Mode.â€
“It’s nothing I haven’t seen before. And even with that you have failed in the past. I must have something new to sample.â€
“I thought as much†said Ixion. “What if I gave you the Horu to make part of your army?â€
“You would offer your comrades in allegiance with us?â€
“Cheiron’s comrades†Ixion corrected. “But yes. You are after all both after the Rathnaya. Consider it an allegiance of convenience.â€
Kuber recalled his temptation of Yoroi to join him. Nevertheless, this may be the edge he was looking for.
“How will you convince them?â€
“Leave that to me. Now…†Ixion sensed his victory in the mind of the demon. “Let me tell you exactly how I can be revived and rid of that limp-wristed Cheiron…â€
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Ikeia ducked away from a patrol of Kattu and watched them move away. He took this brief reprieve from his escape southward to check on his knife wound, and cursed as he saw a trickle of blood seep out from the bandage. With as little time as there was, he had hastily dressed and bandaged it, and now his lack of expertise was getting the better of him. Ikeia quickly wiped the blood away and added more gauze-like cloth, then continued on his trek, using Elisha’s Axe as a cane. But he knew that sooner or later, unless he received proper medical attention, he would have to stop somewhere. And then no doubt the end would come.
Eventually Ikeia came face-to-face with the last person he wanted to see. Mohini smiled evilly upon him like a malevolent specter.
“You’re resilient. I’ll give you that.†She seemed to glide over to him.
“Perhaps you should have stabbed deeper.â€
“Or perhaps I should have slit your throat instead.â€
Ikeia tried to swing down on Mohini with the axe, but with his enervated state the demoness easily knocked the sacred weapon away. She bit down on Ikeia’s shoulder and then kicked him away, leaving a gash on his Brace arm. Ikeia grimaced as he tried to raise it. Transformation was impossible.
“Your men did not appeal to me†Mohini hissed. “But I’m going to savor you.â€
Ikeia raised KirinRauma with his good hand. If this was the end, then so be it. He would go down resisting. Suddenly the night scene was lit up by an unworldly glow. An illuminated figure cast an intense light at Mohini, making her back down from Ikeia. The figure then proceeded to engage in a brief duel with the demoness, soon resulting in her sudden departure. Her vengeful shriek echoed across the landscape.
*BGM plays*
(‘Senshi no Chikai (2)’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
(‘Senshi no Chikai (2)’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
Ikeia now shielded his eyes as the figure approached him. The illumination began to dim, allowing the Gadite to see who was before him. He blanched upon the realization: the saint Sariputta stood above him admonishingly.
“You did not deserve what I have just done.â€
Ikeia trembled slightly but said nothing.
“But you are one of the nine, and thus must be delivered to greatness.â€
Ikeia remained silent. Sariputta brought him to his feet.
“The Judge of Issachar is on Sri Pada. Take this Axe to him and the jewel which you stole will go to him.â€
“What?â€
“Do you still not understand? Your army is destroyed. You are a man on the run from the enemy whom you should be fighting, but ignored for the sake of your evil.â€
Sariputta took hold of Ikeia’s Brace.
“The Judges must unite if they are to win. Find them and seek your repentance.â€
Were it anyone else, Ikeia might have protested. But the saint had a strange effect on him. Sariputta pointed again to Sri Pada in the distance.
“Go to Sri Pada. Find your repentance.â€
A gust of wind, and the saint was gone. Ikeia felt the pain from his wounds erupt again. Grimacing, he picked up the Axe and pondered over what he had just witnessed. He barely understood it all, but right now it didn’t seem like he had many options. So, guided by the light of the moons, Ikeia began to head toward the holy mountain…
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Morning. Ban was eating a fruit for breakfast when he found TFP sitting alone outside. Without waiting for an invitation, he sat down across from him.
“So… Pack.â€
TFP shot a glance at him but did not object to the name.
“I can call you Pack, can’t I?â€
TFP shrugged. “You may as well.â€
“You’re not eating?â€
“I’m not hungry.â€
Ban shrugged and continued to eat.
“I don’t know what you’re so hung up about. It’s not like you did any of that stuff. So what if people know who you are, we know what you’ve done.â€
TFP sighed and turned away. “I don’t think you would understand.â€
“Maybe not†Ban admitted. “…But I think I know what it is to want to prove something.â€
TFP eyed him curiously. “What do you want to prove?â€
Just like before, Ban could not find an answer.
“To prove something you need something to prove.â€
“So I have nothing to prove?â€
TFP let out a slow exhale and got up. “You have nothing to live for. Your whole life has been empty of any true substance. If you want to prove otherwise, which seems the case, you must rectify that mistake.â€
“And have you?†Ban shot back with slight irritation. “Have you proven you’re not your family, or are you just like them by hiding it from us?â€
The two Judges locked eyes for a moment, but were spared a confrontation by a clamor from their friends. Comic, his wrists covered up, was holding an arrow with a note tied onto the shaft.
“I was walking along the city outskirts when this was shot to me†he explained. Kira tore off the note and unrolled it.
“What is this?â€
“This arrow belongs to Kalu Kumara†said Comic.
“Kalu Kumara?†TFP and the girls expressed surprise. The myth of the Black Prince was among the most terrible of their childhood tales.
“He says his companions are waiting for us outside the city†read Kira.
“The YakkaJins are together again†Gotembara observed.
“It sounds like a set-up†said Yoroi.
“Perhaps†said Comic. “But we’re not just leaving them alone, are we?â€
“No I don’t suppose you are†said the saint.
Comic broke the arrow in two and threw the pieces into a fire. He then took off in the direction the arrow had come from, the others racing after him…
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*BGM plays*
(‘Kyodai JuuSenshi, Za Zuruluk’ from Chousinsei Flashman)
(‘Kyodai JuuSenshi, Za Zuruluk’ from Chousinsei Flashman)
The nine YakkaJins appeared somewhere along the MahaWaliGanga, outside a village some miles from the city.
“Let's draw out the little mice†said Kuveni.
The demons entered the village and began to slaughter the populace.
Comic then walked calmly onto the scene of devastation, folding his arms over his chest.
“Hey, you lot†he said, waving his hand in mock friendship. “That's not very nice what you're doing there. I'm going to have to ask you to stop.â€
The nine stared at Comic before laughing in his face.
“How's that wife of yours?†KaluYakka taunted.
“That, my dear man†Comic answered, glaring at the short YakkaJin, “is none of your concern.†His voice now carried less of a mocking tone, and more venom. “Leave, now. Before the Judges have their way with you.â€
He turned his gaze to Kalu Kumara, who returned it with equal hatred. Inside he was hoping they would ignore his demand, just so he could have his way with this black prince.
“We leave when we're good and ready.†Kalu Kumara raised his sword.
“Now I want to play.â€
He swiftly cut down across Comic in a vertical fashion. Comic's ax blade met with the saber, before he pushed it away and swung his own weapon. Kalu Kumara ducked and rolls away. Seeing some fleeing civilians, he commanded Vata Kumara to pursue one. Vata Kumara grabbed a small girl and raises his sword to her neck.
“Let's play a game. One cut for every step you take.â€
The others snickered. A shortened breath, due to surprise, escaped Comic’s lips. His fists rolled into balls as he clenched his teeth. One step, and she would be dead. Another nameless civilian on a roster of casualties. Another faceless victim. Yet, Comic knew none of them were faceless. And this one hadn't even been able to live her life yet. He could see the fear evident on her face.
“Bastards...†he muttered quietly, before dropping his ax.
A mini-cyclone suddenly knocked the sword from Vata Kumara's hand. Sako, tailed by the others, appeared in view and came beside Comic. Vata Kumara growled and threw the girl aside into some rubble.
“Just the lot we wanted to see†said Saradiel.
Yoroi took the opportunity to order the girl to run as fast as she could. He then turned back around to face the demons.
“Your fight is with us, not little children†said Kiliana. “I suggest you remember that in the future.â€
“Now now†said Suniya. “You won't deny the usefulness of the mortals as playthings...â€
“But Judges would be better†said Kuveni. “Let’s have some fun with them for a while.â€
Comic curled his fist tightly. “I’d like to see you try.â€
“Is that a challenge?†Kalu Kumara hissed. Comic grabbed his axe again. His face became contorted into one of pure anger and fury. He charged toward his nemesis…
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Seeing the two fighting each other, the other YakkaJins turned their attention to the Judges and Yoroi.
“Let’s go!†yelled Ban.
*BGM plays*
(‘Onna Senshi Lami’ from Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger)
(‘Onna Senshi Lami’ from Kyoryu Sentai Zyuranger)
The Judges transformed and ran to meet these new enemies. But before they could approach, Aimana and Aturu’s ten female retainers leapt in to block their path.
“Who - â€
Ban couldn’t finish the question, as the ten began to crisscross the field, slashing and striking the Judges in rapid succession. Moving like a whirlwind, they herded the nine together like a baitball and struck again and again. Kira unveiled ToriKasaya and began to fling in 180 degrees, driving the demonesses back and allowing them to return to the Jins. KaluYakka fired energy blasts to divide them up, letting all eight go after them.
TFP opened fire on Aimana and Suniya from the side via HebiKalla. Suniya caught the shots on his firepan and flung them back at him. TFP ducked, then charged with cannon in front of him. Aimana released a ring of energy that surrounded the Danite and zapped him with volts of energy. TFP fell to the ground smoking. He fired another blast, which was merely caught again and thrown back amidst loud chortling. A ring of purple fire now appeared on the ground around TFP. Instantly the ground beneath him burned and erupted in flame. TFP barely managed to jump through the fire and roll away. Aiman caugt im by jamming is foot into his chest.
“Too easy.â€
Suniya grabbed TFP by the neck and shook him like a rag doll.
“I could use a little pet.â€
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Kiliana busied herself with Aturu and Kasyapa, while Yoroi and Gotembara handled Saradiel, Vata Kumara and KaluYakka. Ban flew toward Kuveni, blasting fireballs her way. Kuveni leapt up, grabbed Ban and threw him hard on the ground. Ban threw her off and, together with Kira, did a cross attack with their sabers. Kuveni caught and threw them away over her head. Stabbing her claws into their armor, she threw them in opposite directions…
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Kalu Kumara was knocked back by Comic's attacks. Comic took the opportunity to start pummeling him with punches in rapid succession, but the demon recovered enough to deliver a one-two slash in return. Comic was thrown backwards into a pole. Rather than crash into it though, he grabbed a hold of the pole as he neared it and pulled himself around back towards Kalu Kumara. He swung down diagonally with his axe across Kalu Kumara’s chest, and readied himself for the next move...
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TFP tried to break Suniya’s stranglehold on him. Charging up his left fist, he slammed it into his abdomen. Suniya dropped him, allowing the Judge to land a kick on Aimana’s chest. Sako then came in and slashed Suniya from behind. He and Aimana stepped away
“You are the one who killed Bahirawa-hamu†muttered Suniya.
“That’s right.â€
A ring of fire appeared around Sako too, and soon the ground beneath her went ablaze. Sako jumped out of the ring and landed behind Aimana, slashing Suniya across his chest twice. “Do you want to be next?â€
Suniya snorted. TFP threw a ball of liquid at Aimana, making him throw his blade up in the air. TFP leapt and caught it, and attempted to impale the YakkaJin. Aimana looked at the sword now lodged in his body. He smirked, and then yanked the blade out. Moving quickly, he grabbed TFP by the throat and threw him into Sako, then slashed the two Judges rapidly, powering up the sword with energy.
Sako and TFP skidded on the dusty ground.
“Any ideas?†asked the girl to the man.
TFP clutched his chest with his free hand. His other was pointing his cannon at the Jins.
“Anything I shoot at him only comes back. What say we try combining powers?â€
“Combine this!†The Jins telekinetically levitated the Judges. With his firepan, Suniya threw several streams of fire to scorch them…
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Kuveni reached down toward Ban. Grabbing one of her hands with one hand, Ban sliced it off with his sword. Kuveni just laughed as the hand dropped to the ground and a new hand regenerated. Taking advantage of Ban’s surprise, she knocked him roughly away. Kira emitted a series of bright flashes from her body to blind Kuveni, and then proceeded to throw her whip toward Kuveni’s legs, pulling her off her feet. Kuveni landed on her back and fired her claws at Kira in response. Kira’s armor sparked and smoked as she fell back...
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Kiliana felt the weight of Kasyapa’s club as it crashed into her, sending her forward into the dirt.
“How is Reuben these days?†taunted the former king as Aturu pointed his trident at her back. Kiliana furiously rolled and knocked the trident away, firing bolts of lightning at them. Aturu took out his bow and fired several arrows. Kiliana caught them on KujiPaliya and broke them off. Ejecting the blade, she clashed with the two, engaging in a three-person duel…
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TFP and Sako fell back to the ground. TFP watched Sako get kicked cruelly in the head by Aimana.
“You are really beginning to annoy me...â€
Kiliana and her opponents were coming their way, as were Kira and Ban. TFP shot HebiKalla again and again. Aimana and Suniya gathered together with Kuveni, Kasyapa and Aturu to face TFP, Sako, Ban and Kira at once. TFP moved up a step ahead of the rest, seemingly taking the lead for the moment.
“These guys aren’t like the others†commented Kira.
“Of course not. Did you think we were like the dumb brutes Bahirawa-hamu sent your way?†Aturu spat. “We were once like you. You’ve now met your match.â€
Together the YakkaJins charged the Judges. Kiliana resumed her duel with Aturu. Sako went after Kasyapa, and Kuveni after TFP. Ban engaged Aimana and Suniya…
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Yoroi and Gotembara blocked every single one of Saradiel, Vata Kumara and KaluYakka’s attacks. Clashing with Vata Kumara’s blade against his own staff, Yoroi leaned in close. Pulling back out, he knocked the demon back, preparing for another offensive strike, when Saradiel’s arrow suddenly hit him and the saint, sending them tumbling back.
“Enguard, alien!†Saradiel pointed his bow at Yoroi challengingly. The Mystican headed for him, while Gotembara moved back towards the prince and KaluYakka, all three preparing to engage in an intense duel.
Yoroi was hit by Saradiel’s first few strikes, but as the bandit came down for his final attack, he took out his sword and stabbed. Saradiel however maneuvered enough so that the blade didn’t penetrate deeply. He knocked the blade away and leapt skyward.
“Garasu!â€
Appearing in a golden flame, Garasu soared in and picked Yoroi up on his back. Still holding onto the blade of the sword, Yoroi launched himself and Sardiel into the sky, finally flinging the demon above him. Appearing in Yoroi's hands were both his lance and his sword. Crossing them over each other, he proceeded to hack Saradiel high up in the sky. Saradiel, unable to defend, went tumbling back down to the ground, shrieking his rage as he went.
KaluYakka and Vata Kumara meanwhile were thrown backward by Gotembara and landed near Saradiel…
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Comic staggered backward and fell on one knee. A fight didn’t normally tire him out this quickly, but Kalu Kumara wasn’t like any other enemy. Or perhaps he had never had such a personal investment before, and it was clouding his ability.
“You should have left that hag to me years ago†said the prince. “I would have spared you. But now it’s too late for that.â€
“How many more women and children must die before you will leave the world alone?â€
“…Until they all prostrate themselves to me.â€
They stared each other down, waiting for the time to strike. Then Comic dashed forward, his axe held high and ready to meet the neck of this monster. He cut upwards at Kalu Kumara. The demon jumped up to avoid the bow and kicked Comic in his back. Turning around, he cuts through the air with his sword, slicing across Comic’s back, shoulder and chest as the Asherite spun to face him. As Comic staggered back again, Kalu Kumara sent an energy blade straight toward him. Nowhere to run, Comic blocked with his axe. The weapon managed to catch the energy onto itself… or was it the sudden shadowy aura that was helping it along? Comic flung the energy back. Without any further hesitation, he used a stone as a jumping-off point and came down, his foot aimed at Kalu Kumara’s face. But before Comic could reach him Kalu Kumara’s seven queens, the Vanda-bisavun, tackled him midair and brought him to the ground in an explosive kamikaze attack…
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The Judges saw the explosion in the distance.
“COMIC!â€
Kalu Kumara emerged from the smoke, his retainers lying weakened around him. The other Jins cackled at the sight.
“Shut up!†yelled Ban.
“Stupid fool†sneered Kasyapa. “He must have learned from you.â€
Kalu Kumara joined the five on one side, with Saradiel, KaluYakka and Vata Kumara on the other. Yoroi and Gotembara joined the Judges, but unlike them they didn’t seem perturbed by Comic’s apparent demise.
“That insolent Asherite is dead!†Kalu Kumara spat. “â€Next to go will be you, saint.â€
“I don’t think so†said Gotembara, looking off in the distance. Another figure was now standing amidst the smoke.
“What - â€
*Tauranger theme plays*
(‘Araburu! Gasshin Senshi Bull Taurus Instrumental’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
(‘Araburu! Gasshin Senshi Bull Taurus Instrumental’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
Suddenly the figure summoned a cover of shadow to consume the battlefield. In the darkness he sped forward and slammed all the YakkaJins in the torso. They fell into a pile away from the Judges. Kira turns to look at the man.
“…. Comic!â€
Comic turned to face everyone. He tore off the coverings over his wrists, revealing a Jewel Brace.
“When did - †a bewildered Sako asked.
“You…†Kalu Kumara growled as he got back up. “What’s the meaning of this?â€
“It’s the end of all of you†responded Comic. He slammed the fist of his Brace arm into his palm, releasing a cloud of shadows from the Brace. He raised the arm in the air, enveloping himself in a dark shroud. Once it disappeared, the armor of the Judge of Asher was placed over him.
“Judge of Asher… Tauranger!â€
The YakkaJins attacked, but Comic blocked out all light again and struck each Judge with blows from UshiMitiya. Now encouraged to keep fighting, the Judges charged at the enemy. Kalu Kumara knocked away Sako's blade with his own and slashed her viciously several times across the chest. Overwhelmed, Sako fell to her knees, panting furiously. They were right: Bahirawa and his beasts were nothing compared to these guys. Comic removed the head from his hammer and split it into a pair of metal boxing gloves, the Kage. He punched with the large knuckles at Kalu Kumara's chest, knocking him back a few feet. Yoroi put his weapons away and concentrated his reserve power into his fists until they seemed to glow with energy. Taking a leaf from Comic’s book, he unleashed his own fury of punches at the demons. Each time a powerful burst of golden energy flew forward, powered by Yoroi's own lifeforce. Each blast caused him to stumble slightly, but he would quickly regain his balance and attack again.
The other Judges and Gotembara contributed their own abilities. Explosions erupted everywhere as the YakkaJins’ armor sparked heavily and they landed on the ground. Comic came up in front of his allies.
“How’s that?â€
Kalu Kumara staggered to his feet. “Not done yet....â€
Joined by Suniya, the two of them each released the cobras wound around their bodies. They fused together into the body of the cobra YakkaJuu NaYakka, and grew to giant size. He spewed forth a great stream of explosive, toxic acid from his mouth, destroying several architecture and sending the Judges flying in several directions. A flock of Ulama swooped in and contributed to the assault.
Comic rolled down a small embankment and looked up at the sky. A TharaJuu began descending from Hewanalla and kicked NaYakka in the head before it landed. Haraka the minotaur stood before the heroes and roared fiercely. The other TharaJuu, Rajaliya and Singhaya included, came up to join their comrade.
“What’s that?†asked Ban.
“That my friend†said Comic, “is Haraka.â€
Haraka rallied the TharaJuu. Rajaliya, joined by Makara and Ukussa, opened fire on the Ulama with his shoulder cannons. Sarpiya, Singhaya and Haraka engaged in a grappling match with NaYakka.
“Nephilim mode!†summoned Yoroi
Garasu reappeared, before flying through a large magi symbol, turning into the much larger Phoenix-like mecha. He issued a scream as he flew through the air, a trail of fire in his wake. Yoroi jumped inside, as the mecha flipped its wings in front of itself and opened fire.
NaYakka blocked the attacks through its large shield-like hood and fired multiple blasts at the mechas with its massive poison-drenched mouth. Rajaliya, Makara and Ukussa flew away to avoid the blasts. Haraka beat his chest and rammed the demon with his horns, knocking him down. Then he beckoned Rajaliya, Thalmaha and Ukussa to join him. With the Judges watching, the four began to combine:
- Haraka’s legs folded up so that the feet formed a belt buckle and silver thighs protruded below the waist. The bovid head and neck folded down to show a feminine anthropoid head, and the arms and back detached and folded into a club.
- Rajaliya’s legs folded to the sides. The hindquarters folded downward to reveal slots for the thighs to slide into, ejecting the wings and tail and which became a bow and arrow respectively. The whole body behind the neck rose to a vertical position and split in half. Both halves of the head and mane flipped into the body and were replaced by a toed foot each.
- Ukussa’s body straightened out into back armor. The head formed a helmet with headdress, and the wings detached to fold into a sword.
- Thalmaha’s body split into four parts: head, dorsal body, ventral body, tail. The head and tail unfolded into arms, while the dorsal body arranged into a piece of frontal armor. The ventral body became a large shield.
The mecha all combined together to form TharaDeviyo (Star God) Urmya, the deity of dusk. The giant goddess descended to the ground before NaYakka.
“They always know what they’re doing already†muttered Sako.
SeiNephilim landed behind NaYakka as he attacked Urmya, and charged with his trident, slamming it into the monster's backside. Urmya blocked the acid attack with her shield but staggered back nonetheless. NaYakka grabbed Nephilim’s trident and dislodged it. With blood dripping out the wound, he did an about turn toward Nephilim and fired a blast of corrosive acid at point blank range. Urmya raised her bow and fired the charged tail arrow at the YakkaJuu in retaliation. Nephilim was shot back, sparks flying across his hull as an explosion ripped across the face. The cockpit shook, sparked and smoked everywhere.
“Why do they always aim for the head?!â€
As the smoke cleared, Yoroi could see Urmya had incapacitated the monster. He watched as the goddess walked over to NaYakka and grabbed him by the neck. She unleashed a punch into the face of the beast, pulled back, and then punched again. NaYakka flailed on the ground.
Urmya now brought out her sword and jumped up into the air after a running start. The stars Sagare, Eliya, Handtha and Goruwenawa shone around her. The sword glowed a heavenly shade as she hovers in the air and then shot back down to the ground, delivering a high-powered slash to her opponent. The demon flew back and exploded as he hit the ground, reverting back to the swarm of cobras from whence he came. The cobras wound themselves back around Suniya and Kalu Kumara. The YakkaJins backed away from the scathing Urmya and the Judges.
“This is far from over†Kalu Kumara said, pointing a threatening finger toward Comic. The nine demons then dissolved to spirit form and disappeared. Comic stared after them, a look of vengeful determination behind his helmet. The others then came up to him in congratulation.
“Why didn’t you say something before?†asked Kira.
“I wanted to surprise you. Heck, I don’t think I believe it yet myself.â€
“Join the club†snorted Sako…
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That night the Judges came together to discuss what had happened that day.
“All together they’re almost impossible to beat†said Kiliana. “Our best bet is to keep them separated.â€
“They’re not like the YakkaJuu†said TFP. “They’re going to catch on to anything we try. Nine of them for nine of us. And they aren’t even the real heavy-hitters.â€
In his normal state of mind Ban would have asked what that meant, but tonight he was occupied by other thoughts. Now with the excitement over the Jins past, he had gone back to Mahasona, Havok and his ultimate purpose in this war.
“Ban? You listening?†Kiliana inquired.
Ban rose up. He finally decided to make up his mind.
“I’m going after Mahasona.â€
“Are you serious?†asked Kira. “We just got a new enemy to deal with, and you want to chase after a rouge demon?â€
The others expressed similar discontent. Gotembara though remained dispassionate. Yoroi said nothing.
“He’s still a demon, isn’t he?†Ban defended. “Besides, he was headed toward Sri Pada. Isn’t that where Obelisk is?â€
“I doubt Mahasona has much interest in Obelisk†said TFP.
“You want to take that chance?â€
“Ban†said Kiliana. “If this is about your feud - â€
“I have to settle things with him. And find out what he meant about… my friends…â€
“Now is not the time.â€
“Then when will it be?â€
*BGM plays*
(‘Oreta Yaiba’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
(‘Oreta Yaiba’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
“Ban has a point†said Gotembara. “Mahasona may now be a rogue, but we should not count him out. If he is heading to Sri Pada, then someone should keep an eye on him.â€
“What about the YakkaJins?†asked Kiliana.
“You have a fine addition to your team†Gotembara nodded to Comic, who humbly bhead.
“Kalu Kumara has long been my enemy†he said. “I know him and his associates too well. So I can assist you here.â€
“You can do better†said Kiliana. “Given your reputation, I think you should become leader.â€
Comic tried to protest, but Kiliana insisted. At last he relented.
“Very well. Then let me say that while I agree we’re better off sticking together, I can understand Ban’s feelings. If he feels he must do this, then I will let him go.â€
The others still seemed unsure, but they trusted Comic’s judgment. Yoroi came up to Ban.
“I can escort you to the mountain come sunrise. Hopefully Alpha is still there with Obelisk.â€
“And I shall accompany you†said Gotembara. “I too would like to know Mahasona’s intention.â€
The saint noticed the doubtful looks on the Judges’ faces and gathered them together.
“Now is the time to stand together. Don’t allow the enemy to divide you. And more importantly, don’t allow yourselves to divide each other.â€
The six Judges looked at Gotembara and each other. Taking his words to heart, they put their Braces together and looked up at the nine parent stars. Their Rathnaya shined to match their light…
TO BE CONTINUED
*Ending Theme 2 plays*
(‘Caribbean Blue’ by Enya)
Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme 2 plays*
(‘Yokoku Ongaku 3’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
Ixion conscripts the Horu to ally with the Yakko in their hunt for the Rathnaya; Ikeia arrives at Sri Pada to save Obelisk from Kuber’s renewed attack; the gold Rathnaya chooses its partner; and Mahasona at last reveals his secret.
*Ending Theme 2 plays*
(‘Caribbean Blue’ by Enya)
Next Time
*Next Episode Promo Theme 2 plays*
(‘Yokoku Ongaku 3’ from Seiju Sentai Gingaman)
Ixion conscripts the Horu to ally with the Yakko in their hunt for the Rathnaya; Ikeia arrives at Sri Pada to save Obelisk from Kuber’s renewed attack; the gold Rathnaya chooses its partner; and Mahasona at last reveals his secret.
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