#killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 41 - Final) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Man, finally, the last chapter! It’s been a long road, but I finally made it. Just in time before my operation, too. I don’t know how I will feel in the next couple of months, but do let me know if you would like to see more of Samuel. I might be able to write a few oneshots or whatever. Anyway, hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 41:

The remnants of a dream he could not remember faded as Samuel waded into wakefulness. His body felt heavy as he furrowed his brow and pressed his face into his pillow.

Pillow? When did he crawl into bed?

He laid still to allow his mind to clear and soon realised that he should not be lying in a bed, comfortable but tired. He…should be in Nugatory. He should be alone. Cold and lonely, floating through the Netherverse. As a spirit. As nothing more than a specter.

Why…?

Summoning up his energy, he opened his eyes and found himself staring at the familiar surroundings of the Nether-Hospital of the Pocket Netherworld. No, of Gorgeous Reborn.

He was back in home base.

Killia…the others…the Tree of Death…

That was not a dream?

A small face suddenly popped in his line of sight. Young, with wide green eyes. Two more youthful faces joined him. Three young boys. Children. Halfling. Kids.

His kids. From Nugatory.

Samuel’s eyes widen and he pitched up in bed, leaning up on his hands as he rested on his side. “Jeremy? Gavin? Tyler? Wh-what?”

“Sammie!”

The three kids launched themselves at them and Samuel readily opened his arms, falling back onto the bed. He wrapped his arms around the kids and hugged them tightly, pressing kisses to each of their foreheads.

He could hardly believe it. They were alive. Three of his kids were alive. He was…so glad. He thought he had lost them all.

Jeremy was a chatterbox, and would ramble incoherently at times, asking rapid-fire questions, leaving no time for answers. Gavin was a selective mute, only speaking to certain individuals, and Samuel was obviously one of those individuals. Tyler was non-verbal, so just pressed his face into his shoulder and cried.

They…must have been hiding in Nugatory the entire time.

“Samuel!”

Samuel lifted his head up, his expression instantly brightening. His bed was soon surrounded by familiar faces; Usalia, Zeroken, Christo, Red Magnus, even Seraphina.

And, of course, Killia.

Killia…

He came for him. Somehow found Nugatory. Raided it. Fought against Arch-Overlord on his own. Freed him from the Tree of Death.

Samuel remembered. He remembered watching from the tree. From the heart of the tree. Abimael wanted him to watch. Wanted him to see as Arch-Overlord killed him. So that his heart would shatter in a million different pieces. So that he would turn demonic. And destroy the three realms in their entirety.

But Samuel would not allow that. He would not allow Killia to die because of him. Especially because of him.

He loved him too much to let that happen.

Killia walked to his left side of the bed and placed his hand on his shoulder, gently looking down upon him. “How are you feeling?”

Samuel could not help but flush lightly. “I couldn’t be better.”

A movement from the corner of his eye caught his attention and he glanced over in curiosity. He did a doubletake when he realised a young woman with long blonde hair stood at the foot of his bed, hands folded neatly in front of her, waiting patiently.

Lieze…

Ah, right. He had almost forgotten. How shameful.

Lieze smiled brightly, warmly at him as she clapped her hands in front of her. “Samuel, it’s so nice to finally meet you.”

“You, too,” Samuel returned, smiling also. “It’s good to see you well. I’ve heard so much about you.”

Lieze, unexpectedly, giggled. “And you.”

Jeremy, who was hanging over Samuel’s back, waved his arm to get his attention. “This nice lady has been looking after us,” he explained.

“Ah, I see,” Samuel said as he turned back to Lieze. “Thank you for looking after my kids for me.”

“Not at all,” Lieze immediately responded. “They are an absolute delight.”

They were. And they were free.

Finally.

… … … … …

Samuel had to admit that he was surprised by the reception he received when he was released from the hospital. The prinnies that worked on the main bridge, the ones he had helped a few times and had cooked sardine curry for, had swarmed him, tearfully exclaiming how happy they were that he was back.

They were not being sarcastic, either. They were being honest, which surprised him and many others.

Many other rebels had stated that they were grateful that he had returned to them safely, too. Apparently, the Rebel Army was not the same without him.

It was humbling, to say the least. He had no idea he left such an impact on others.

Because of his return, everyone felt ready to finally celebrate the end of the war.

Everyone was in a celebratory mood.

Samuel should be, too. But…he couldn’t.

He had every reason to be. He had been rescued by the hands of Killia and his beloved allies. His kids had been freed and returned to him. Nugatory was no more. It had been destroyed. By his own hand.

He could hardly believe it. His home world, his prison – gone. Along with the Tree of Death. He was free. Truly free.

But, was he?

Samuel found himself staring out into the vast Netherverse beyond the glass panels of Gorgeous Reborn once more. He had done such a thing many times before. Yet, in the past he did so out of awe. Now, it was out of concern.

Seedlings, Snap Draingons…they still existed. Out there in the Netherverse. He could feel them. Sense them. The Tree of Death, Abimael made sure he could when he was merged with the tree. And he had taken advantage of that when he reversed the effect of Snap Draingons at the time.

But now, the Snap Draingons had returned to ‘normal’. They were still stealing energy from the Netherworlds they infested, but no longer for the Tree of Death, but for themselves.

He…had learnt quite a bit about Seedlings and Snap Draingons while merged with the Tree of Death. And everything he had learnt was alarming.

He had to do something about it.

Alone.

Samuel turned away from staring out at the Netherverse when he heard a playful laugh. He smiled when he saw that his kids were running about, carefree, playing with some of the younger members of the Rebel Army.

There were no words to describe how relieved he was that three of his kids survived. That they had listened to his words and hid when things turned, in their words, scary at Nugatory.

They were too young to properly describe what had happen at Nugatory, but what they did tell him was that the others had ‘left’ and it was just the three of them, left to fend for themselves in Nugatory for months on end.

At least they were safe now.

The kids played with a group of Slumbering Cats while Lieze watched on from a bench. And stood close to her was Killia, watching over them all like a protective guardian. A father figure, even.

Lieze was wonderful with the children. They would be better off with her. Along with Killia, they would make an adorable family. The kids would take to them quickly, he was sure.

Besides, he could not take them with him when he ventured out to destroy the Snap Draingons on his own. It would be too dangerous. And unfair on them.

It was also unfair on Killia to ask him to help him.

Samuel remembered what happened in Nugatory. When Killia freed him from being the heart of the Tree of Death. In a moment of weakness, he had…kissed him.

He flushed with shame and looked away, turning his gaze back to the Netherverse outside once more.

If nothing else, it made it perfectly clear that Killia did not feel the same. He did not kiss him back. He did not push him away, sure. He was too kind to reject him in a hostile manner. But he did not return the gesture.

A hand clasping his shoulder suddenly made Samuel jump. The hand tightened, causing him to turn his head to the side, his gaze immediately colliding with that of golden honey. The eyes of the person he both wanted and did not want to see.

“You seemed troubled by something,” Killia stated, his concern blatant.

“Oh, hey, sorry,” Samuel instinctively returned. “I guess I’m still in shock about Nugatory.”

Killia nodded his head in understanding but kept his hand on his shoulder. “Is that all?”

A part of Samuel wanted to say yes and brush it off, wanting to keep his thoughts to himself. Not wanting to bother Killia anymore than he already had. And yet, another part wanted to bare his soul to him. To at least give him the opportunity of knowing the truth.

“…No,” he admitted. “There’s something else.”

Killia squeezed his shoulder, seemingly expecting that response. “Let’s talk in private.”

Samuel nodded. Killia dropped his hand from his shoulder and they both turned, flaring their wings to fly to the walkway above the main bridge. They headed to the furthest corner platform, Killia landing first with Samuel moving to land a few feet in front of him.

“What’s wrong?” Killia immediately asked.

“I’m…not entirely sure where to start,” Samuel admitted as he turned to look out into the Netherverse once more. “I guess I’ll start from when I was merged with the Tree of Death. I had learned a bit more about Seedlings and Snap Draingons. And about me, too, I guess.”

The information he learnt about the Snap Draingons and Seedlings were true. About himself? He…did not want to think about that.

“I tried to destroy all the Snap Draingons from the Tree of Death, but there was too many of them. All I could do was instead reverse their purpose. Return the energy that the Tree of Death had stolen through the many countless years.”

“With the Tree of Death now destroyed, what will happen to these Snap Draingons and their Seedlings?” Killia asked. A reasonable question.

One that Samuel was hesitant to answer. He looked away and wrung his hands together in front of him. “…Each Snap Draingon has the potential to one day turn into a Tree of Death.”

“What?!”

Samuel sighed and rubbed the back of his neck, granting Killia a sympathetic smile. “Yeah. One consolation is that it could take many years for that to happen. It won’t happen overnight, thankfully. The tree will need to become the core of Netherworld and it will need the deaths of hundreds of thousands of demons for it to occur. There is still time to seek them out and destroy them.”

I was not going be easy, but it had to be done. Someone, namely him, had to do it.

“My war continues, it seems.”

Killia immediately stepped forward and took him by the elbow, guiding him to turn around to face him. “You won’t have to face it alone. I’ll help you.”

Samuel would like that. He would love that, but he could not accept it.

“No. This is my duty to bear.”

Killia looked genuinely confused. “What?”

Samuel reached up with his hand and gently, painfully on his part, pried Killia’s hand from his elbow. “As the last remaining defender, it falls to me to locate the rest of these Seedlings and Snap Draingons, and destroy them. Even now, as we stand here, I can sense them. Out in nearby Netherworlds. There are thousands of them, Killia.”

He was not about to demand potentially hundreds of years of Killia’s life to be dedicated to hunting down Seedlings and Snap Draingons when he clearly had better things to do.

“As the Sentient of the Tree of Death said; Demons are created to be evil. There are outliers, like you, but at their core, demons are evil. And all it will take is one demon to take one Seedling to create another Tree of Death. And it starts all over again. Another war, another evil that threatens the Netherverse. That's all it will take.”

As far as he was aware, Warden Naraka was still out there somewhere. He could be cultivating several Snap Draingons as they speak. He could even be nurturing a new Arch-Overlord. He may be more dedicated to Project: Wasteland than ever before.

Anything was possible.

“Only Halflings can use the cleansing technique,” Samuel continued. “And I refuse to allow my kids to become defenders. They're too young. They deserve to live normal lives. They deserve someone to search for their parents, and to be reunited with them. If they're still alive, of course. And future Halflings, they don't need to get involved in any of this.”

No, it was him. It was all on him. No one deserved to get involved.

No one.

Killia suddenly looked frustrated. “None of that explains why I can’t help you. None.”

Samuel shook his head, exasperated. “Wouldn’t you rather stay on Flowerful with Lieze?”

Killia fell silent and Samuel sighed. Yeah, thought so. He wanted nothing more than to stay with Killia. To spend the rest of his life with him. But he couldn’t. Not when he was with Lieze. Being forced to watch the two of them together, acting as the perfect couple? That was asking too much.

So, it was official, huh?

Samuel smiled sadly as he stepped to the side and patted Killia on the shoulder. “I’m happy for you.”

Killia suddenly snared him by the elbow and he tugged him toward him sharply, pulling him against his chest. “Samuel, listen-”

“Killia, stop it.” Something in Samuel broke as he fell into Killia’s arms once more, and though he had the physical strength to push him away, he couldn’t. He curled his hands into fists and pressed them against Killia’s chest, his head bowed forward as he could not find it in him to look him in the eyes. “Just…stop. Listen. I love you. I’ve been in love with you for a while now. That’s why.”

“And that’s why I need to stay with you.”

Samuel snapped his head up. “What?”

Killia used that opportunity to lean forward and…kissed him.

Samuel stilled, his eyes widening as he stared at Killia’s face. He was…he was actually kissing him. His lips were pressed against his. He could feel them; soft, a little chapped from the harsh conditions of the endless battles, but gentle all the same.

After a long, drawn-out moment, Killia pulled back and Samuel stared at him in a daze. He lifted a hand to lightly touch his lips with his fingertips in bewilderment. “B-but Lieze?”

Killia smiled at him as he shook his head. “Lieze gave me a heart, the Rebel Army gave me a purpose, but you gave my life meaning. Lieze is family, and she always will be. Just like the kids will always be your family. And how the others and the rebel army will always be our family.”

Y-yeah, that was true.

He…

Samuel leaned forward to thump his forehead against Killia’s shoulder, resting fully, comfortably in his arms and against his chest. “Sorry. I’m not an immune to mind games as I thought. When I was merged with the Tree of Death, it said that the Netherverse’s destruction was one heartbreak away. I know it was talking about me. I thought…”

Being alone would…protect everyone. Including his heart.

“I know,” Killia said as he wound his arms around his waist and pulled him closer. “You were being a martyr, as usual.”

Was that one of the curses of being a Halfling?

Samuel leaned back slightly, only so he could gaze upon his face. “But I could go demonic if my heart was ever broken.”

“I won’t let you,” Killia swiftly returned. “Not because of the fear of you going demonic, but because you deserve to be treasured for the rest of your life.”

“Killia…”

Samuel cupped the side of Killia’s face and gazed into his eyes lovingly, before he leaned forward, his eyelids slipping closed and pressed his lips against Killia’s. Killia’s arms tightened around him, somehow pulling him even closer without overpowering him, his touch both warm and pleasurable.

He…had never been with anyone before. Never kissed anyone. Never loved anyone so intently before in his life. He had not the faintest idea what he was doing. So, he left it up to instinct, and to Killia, to lead him and to guide him.

Neither had led him astray before, and they would not now.

… … … … …

Samuel and Killia had spent quite some time on that walkway above the main bridge getting reacquainted with each other. Only a phone call from a rather irritated Seraphina, ‘kindly’ reminding them that the Rebel Army was celebrating the end of the war and that there was to be a fireworks display prompted them to remember that they had better make an appearance before someone came looking for them.

Thankfully, they were not doing anything too outlandish. Talked, mostly. About what they were to do now that the war was over. Samuel, of course, still had his war to contend with, one that Killia still insisted on helping with him. And there was no way of talking him out of it.

Samuel was, honestly, relieved that he did not have to face it alone. The Rebel Army was to stay together for a little bit longer. They wanted, needed to restore the damage that had been done across the Netherverse. And if they happen to cross paths with some Seedlings and Snap Draingons, well of course they would deal with them, too.

Needless to say, Samuel loved his rebels.

Hand in hand, Samuel and Killia slipped from the walk way and back to the communal area with the others. Killia had to help Red Magnus with the fireworks, and Samuel wanted to have a proper word with Lieze, so they (rather reluctantly, honestly) parted ways.

“Samuel, there you are.” Christo suddenly calling out to him stopped him in his tracks. “May I have a word with you?”

“Sure, of course,” Samuel immediately replied. “What is it?”

Christo looked at him, his posture surprisingly tense and his expression serious. “I’ll get straight to the point. Arch-Overlord mentioned something about a Lady Archangel being involved. Involved in the managing of your prison. I want to promise to you that once I return to Cele-Certain Giant, I will investigate this matter thoroughly. And if true, there will be hell to pay…”

Samuel was taken aback by the revelation of an archangel being involved in the abduction and possible torture of Halflings. He, however, was soon comforted by Christo’s words and smiled at him.

“I trust you, Christo,” he said without hesitation. “And I believe in you. I know that under your watchful eye, there won’t be another Nugatory.”

Whether he found that Lady Archangel or not was irrelevant. As long as there wasn’t another prison like Netherworld that imprisoned Halflings.

With that, Samuel excused him from Christo and went in search of Lieze. He found her easily enough, sat on that same bench, keeping an ever-watchful eye over the children. Thinking of it now, she, too, would thrive in a much busier environment, filled with souls for her to fuss over.

“Lieze.”

Lieze looked up at him with an inquisitive tilt of her head. “Is everything all right?”

Ah, Killia must have told her that he was going to speak with him about something.

“Yes, it is now,” Samuel replied with a smile as he sat down on the bench next to her. “Though, I would like your help with something.”

Lieze immediately pivoted in her seat to face him. “What is it?”

Samuel motioned toward his kids with a tilt of his head. “These kids have been locked away and sheltered their whole lives. They’ve never seen the outside world. They need someone to help them to acclimatize to life within the Netherverse. Can you help me with that?”

“Me?”

“Well, you’re Killia’s family, so you’re my family, too,” Samuel explained readily. Of course, he wasn’t about to leave her out in the cold, now was he? “We’re thinking of settling on Flowerful. It’s the perfect Netherworld for Halflings to grow up on. It’s safe, peaceful. Different to the one we were imprisoned upon. And, perhaps, one day, a safe haven for other Halflings.”

Lieze smiled brightly and nodded her head eagerly. “I very much would like that, too.”

“There’s another reason I asked. I suppose Killia has told you about Seedlings?” He received a nod and he smiled apologetically. “Well, I’m afraid there are still some floating out in the Netherverse. And I’m the one only left to hunt them down. I won’t let any of my kids into that life. So, sorry, there will be times where Killia and I will need to leave Flowerful in the hunt of Seedlings and Snap Draingons. It’s my burden to bear, but Killia won’t let me shoulder the burden alone.”

Lieze placed a hand on her hip and wagged at finger at him. “And he shouldn’t.”

Samuel gave a small laugh before he paused and looked at the woman in silence for a moment. “Thank you, Lieze.”

“Hm?”

“No, it’s just with your help I get to live a life I never thought I would.”

Lieze fell silent as she gazed at him in return. She slowly folded her hands upon her lap as an expression of wistfulness appeared on her face. “…I must thank you, as well.”

Samuel tilted his head to the side. “For what?”

“For what you’ve done for Killia,” she replied. “And what you’ve done for me. I heard your voice, when I was…You were a stranger to me, but your voice was so kind and gentle. It comforted me. I immediately believed you, when you said everything was going to be all right. And you’re right. Everything is going to be all right. For us both.”

Samuel looked at her in surprise before he smiled. “Yeah, you’re right.”

“Sammie!”

Samuel sighed fondly as Jeremy rushed over to him. “Jeremy,” he said, feigning exasperation as he pinched Jeremy’s nose. “Indoor voice.”

Jeremy scrunched up his face and pouted after Samuel let go. “Sammie,” he said again, quieter than before. “Everyone’s saying you and Killia are like married, or something close, or something. Is that true?”

“…H-huh?” Samuel stuttered, blushing deeply.

Jeremy puffed out his cheeks, pouting childishly, while waiting for an answer.

Next to him, Lieze giggled, while also waiting for an answer. And it did not take Samuel long to realise that a sudden silence had fallen down around him. No ordinary silence, of course. A silence of anticipation.

Samuel flushed deeply and rubbed the back of his neck. “Y-yes, it’s true that we’re together.”

He was greatly shocked when a loud, boisterous cheer went up around him. Jeremy expression turned into that of childish disbelief while Lieze clapped her hands in front of her joyously before she scooted closer to him and hooked her arm through his.

“Congratulations!” she said in earnest. “I’m glad that the two of you worked it out finally.”

“Y-yeah,” was all Samuel could utter out.

“Hey, hey!” Red Magnus shouted suddenly. “The fireworks display is about to begin! Time to get super rowdy!”

Oh, good. Time for celebrations to really kick off.

“Jeremy, go get your siblings,” Samuel said as he and Lieze both stood up from the bench. “You don’t want to miss the fireworks display.”

“What’s fireworks?” Jeremy asked.

“You’ll see. Now, hurry.”

Jeremy turned and hurried off, doing as he was told. As he did so, he passed Killia as he walked through the masses, receiving a series of smirks, sniggers, and back pats by their fellow rebels. To say he was a tad confused was an understatement.

Lieze hid a laugh behind her hand and Samuel smiled apologetically as Killia made his way over to them.

“Everyone is acting strangely,” he simply said.

“My fault,” Samuel replied as he leaned forward and pressed himself against Killia’s chest, the other quickly slipping his arms around his waist. “Jeremy heard some gossip and I couldn’t lie to him.”

A flicker of realisation appeared in Killia’s honey gold eyes. “Ah.”

Samuel felt someone suddenly barrel into from behind, wrapping their arms around his waist and hugging him. He jumped, startled, but promptly relaxed when he realised that they were none other than Usalia.

She must be pleased as punch to have her ‘parents’ back together.

Gossip did not take long, did it?

“Grrr, what do you think you’re doing?” Seraphina asked, bristling all the while.

No, gossip did not take long at all.

“Now now,” Lieze said as she picked Tyler up into her arms and expertly balanced the small boy on her hip. “It’s time for celebration. Let’s not ruin the fireworks display with petty fights, hm?”

Christo and Zeroken soon joined them, just as the first rockets of fireworks went up just outside the windows of Gorgeous Reborn. Usalia unwound her arms from Samuel’s waist so that she, too, could gaze upon the fireworks. And Samuel shifted in Killia’s arms, moving to press against his right side, where Lieze stood to his left.

As a magnitude of colours danced and sparkled before them, they culminated into a symbol that their greatest struggles were over. There was still much work to do, but the pain and suffering that they had endured was over.

They were free.

And that including Samuel himself.

Samuel looked away from the fireworks display to gaze upon Killia for a moment, only to find himself look back at him, too. They gazed at each other silently for a moment before they both smiled and Samuel leaned his head on Killia’s shoulder, prompting him to place a kiss to the top of his head.

The Netherverse was not perfect, but it was his, and Samuel would do whatever was necessary to protect it. And those who called it home.

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 27) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 27:

Another magical spear had been discovered. Another medium sized Netherworld on the cusp of total destruction. Naturally, that was something they were not going to let happen,

Samuel placed his hand on his shoulder as he rolled it carefully. There was a mild tinged of pain, but it was not anything he could not stand. He had experienced far worse on the battlefield.

For his own sake, he needed to get back on the frontline.

“Killia, I can go, too.”

Killia looked at him with a slight frown tugging at his lips. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. Really,” Samuel insisted. “My shoulder is a little tight, by its fine.”

While he understood Killia’s protectiveness, Samuel needed to get back into the game. He needed to be useful once more. He could not wallow in self-pity forever. War would not wait for him, as it did not wait for anyone else.

“Alright,” Killia said with a small smile. “It wouldn’t feel right without you.”

Samuel returned the smile with a soft one of his own. “I’m sorry for the worry I’ve caused, but I’m all right now.”

He was not over what happened. He would not be for quite some time. But he was all right.

With axe in hand, Samuel joined Killia and the others as they stepped through the dimensional portal and onto the new Netherworld.

The first thing that greeted them was the sound of…ticking.

The Netherworld was filled with clock towers, of different shapes and sizes, dotting along hills of green grass and pink wildflowers.

An…odd addition to have. An annoying one, with the constant tick-tick-ticking. There was no way Samuel would last long in such a place. He needed total silence to sleep, something Killia appreciated, too. Silence allowed them to hear, or rather prevented anyone from sneaking up on them.

However, the clocks where the least of his worries.

At the bases of the towers, withers and writhing were the unfortunately familiar green throned plants of the Snap Draingons. The vines curled around the towers, twisting into the wooden structures, and deep into the soil.

Samuel released an exasperated sigh. “There are Snap Draingons here, too.”

Hellekin had been busy. Though, he did not need to be that busy. Just a couple of Seedlings were needed. Snap Draingons were able to produce their own every six days. With how long the war had been raging, if he had been passing out Seedlings out since then…

He would rather not know how many lives had been taken.

While he was no longer a prisoner of Nugatory, he still had a role to play.

“No,” Zeroken stated suddenly, snapping Samuel from his thoughts. “We’re not separating this time.”

“That’s right, plip,” Usalia quickly agreed.

“Shouldn’t we just take care of the magical spear, first?” Seraphina added. “That is our main concern. These so-called Snap Draingons aren’t going anywhere.”

Well, Seraphina had a point. The Snap Draingons were deep-rooted to the spot. They physically could not move. And the magical spear was the greatest threat to the Netherworld than they were.

“True, we should-”

“Harvest time is soon upon us, perhaps.”

Samuel froze and all but stopped breathing at that all too familiar voice resonated in his head.

“Eh?” Red Magnus uttered as he looked around. “What’s that?”

“Overlord Fearcher…” Samuel managed to whisper, his hand slowly moving up to cover his mouth as he suddenly felt sick.

Killia was immediately in front of him, a hand on his shoulder. Samuel heard him ask him something, something like ‘what was wrong’, but his words trailed off when his attention was diverted elsewhere. Somewhere to Samuel’s left. The hand on Samuel’s shoulder tightened and he found himself moved to the side, suddenly pushed behind Killia.

He did not want to look, but he peered around Killia. And he immediately regretted it.

After what happened with Hellekin, the last thing he wanted to deal with was another warden of Nugatory.

A Chimera with maroon skin, and an eye on his chest the colours of black and red stood at the peak of a short clock tower. One arm was always raised toward his mouth, as if always sniggering behind his hand, the other left dangling by his side, swaying idly, waiting to strike at a moment’s notice.

If…Fearcher was away from Nugatory, then it was safe to say that Overlord Naraka was also away. Loitering somewhere. Causing trouble. Doing harm.

Did that…mean what Hellekin said about the others being true?

What had happened in Nugatory? What had happened since he was gone? No, since he was kicked out?

“Samuel, he’s…?”

Samuel swallowed thickly and nodded. “Warden Fearcher. He’s the second warden of Nugatory.”

“You dare to speak of Nugatory?” Fearcher immediately reprimanded.

Samuel winced and ducked his head, a habitual reflex from years of abuse.

“Why shouldn’t he?” Killia retorted sharply, not showing the kind of fear that Fearcher was likely used to.

R-right, why shouldn’t he? Why shouldn’t he speak of his prison when Fearcher was also gallivanting around the Netherverse, supplying Seedlings to demons? Killing demons with Seedlings, no less!

Samuel was not in Nugatory anymore. He did not need to abide by their rules anymore. And if…and if what Ronny and Hellekin said was true, then he had all the more reason to be as rebellious as possible. They had taken away his reasons to be placid and peaceful.

It was not going to be easy, but he had to try.

“I see you’re free from Nugatory,” Samuel said as he stepped out from behind Killia, but stayed close to him, finding courage in his presence. “Why are you going round handing out Seedlings as if they’re nothing more than gifts?”

Fearcher shook his shoulders, appearing as if he sniggered behind his hand. “History shows again and again that the weak-minded crave power. I simply grant them that power.”

Samuel curled his hands into fists by his sides. “For only six minutes before they die an agonising death.”

“They do often say they'll do anything to achieve power. Who am I to deny them their greatest desires?”

Samuel could not help but bristle at his dismissiveness. “You’re taking advantage of a war to harvest more power and energy for the Tree of Death!”

“Oh Samuel, what right do you have to get angry?” Fearcher sneered, so coldly that Samuel unconsciously took a half step backwards. “A broken angel. A faulty demon. Do you really think you belong out here in the Netherverse, Samuel?”

…A half of one, but never a whole. Never to be accepted, by either demon or angel. The only place for a Halfling to live, was the Netherworld of Nugatory.

That was…

Killia immediately threw his arm out in front of Samuel, ushering him to stand behind him once more. “Not only does Samuel belong out here in the Netherverse, he is a trusted and highly regarded member of the Rebel Army.”

“That’s right!” Zeroken agreed as he moved to stand on Samuel’s right. “We know about his heritage, and we don’t care. He’s accepted us, and we’ve accepted him.”

Usalia moved to Samuel’s left. “Samuel is Samuel, and nothing you can say or do will change that, plip!”

Samuel heard the others murmur their agreements and his heart swelled with gratitude.

Everyone…

Thank you.

“We don’t have time for your manipulations,” Killia continued, his voice cool and smooth. “Hellekin is dead, you do know. Perhaps you should hold that tongue of yours.”

“Oh?” Fearcher did well to hide his surprise, but it was still quite noticeable. “Was that you, perhaps?”

Samuel drew in a deep breath. “No,” he said on the exhale. “That was me.”

Fearcher lifted his head, his shock palpable. “Is that so?” He soon lowered his mouth behind his hand once more as he narrowed his gaze in on Samuel once more. “Fascinating. A demonic side, perhaps. Truly interesting. Yes.”

Samuel winced. He did not like the way Fearcher studied him with those beady eyes of his. He also was not exactly devastated about what happened to Hellekin. Was he in cahoots with him about trying to release Samuel’s demonic side?

Did that mean he was up to something as well? Something to unleash said demonic side?

…He needed to get everyone to safety.

Fearcher leapt off the clock tower suddenly, landing several yards away from them. “These Snap Draingons have been cultivating for a while now, Samuel. Do you know what that means, Samuel?”

Samuel risked a glance toward the Snap Draingons. “The Seedlings that they’re producing are on the verge of decaying.”

Fearcher nodded and walked toward a Snap Draingon, unbothered how it immediately began snapping and screeching at him. “And that means?”

They were on the verge of growing into parasites. That was common knowledge for Halflings and wardens. What was he getting at? No, rather;

“What are you planning?”

Fearcher did not answer him. His left hand lashed out and snared a Seedling from the Snap Draingon he was studying. He grasped it tightly in his hand as he held it out in front of him, out toward them. In his hand, the Seedling began to convulse and shudder, twisting from the enticing form of a golden seed with the etching of a sun and water droplet, into something far more horrifying.

Spindly, insect legs burst from the body of the Seedling, frantically attempting to scurry from Fearcher’s grasp. To get away, to begin its innate, primal task of finding a host before it decayed completely.

Samuel had seen it all before. He paid little attention to the birth of the parasitical Seedling. He was too busy trying to work out what Fearcher was about to do. Rather, who was his next target. He appeared to be alone, so someone with Samuel had to be…

Fearcher reared up on his tail, the eye on his chest widening into a cursed glared. “Let’s see if you can save someone, Samuel!”

And he threw the decaying Seedling directly at Zeroken!

“Argh-!”

Fearcher’s aim was true to mark, having done such a thing numerous times before in his life, hitting Zeroken in his face. And the Seedling’s instinct was just as strong, latching onto his face in a truly horrific manner and burrowing into his mouth.

Zeroken clutched his throat as he choked and spluttered, reflexively trying to spit it out, as anyone would.

“No!” Samuel shouted, panic-stricken as he dropped his weapon and sprinted to Zeroken’s side.

“Zeroken!” Killia also shouted.

Zeroken continued to cough and heave, his hands around his throat. He stilled suddenly and he raised his head, his gazed locking with Samuel’s as he furrowed his brow. “It…it doesn’t hurt?”

That was when Samuel’s fear truly increased. The Seedling was in Zeroken’s body. In his system. The poison had been injected, and the Seedling was starting to grow.

Six minutes. The ticking of the numerous clocktowers were a reminder.

Six minutes and counting.

“No no no, Zeroken!” Samuel grabbed him by the shoulders, making him look him directly in his eyes. “It’s tricking you. The Seedling is poisoning you, making you think that way. It gives you a sense of euphoria, remember? I told you that before.”

Killia stepped up beside Samuel and reached forward to place a hand atop of Zeroken’s head, tilting his head back so that he could also look at him directly. “Remember what happened to Brutus. Remember how he died. Remember his agonising screams. Look at your chest, Zeroken. You have the very same black veins as he did.”

The clocktowers seemed to grow louder with each passing second.

And the veins on Zeroken’s chest grew darker.

It could not happen again. He could not let it happen again.

He was not going to hear the screams of someone he cared about again!

“I lost Ronny.” Samuel wrapped his arms around Zeroken’s neck in a tight, desperate hug and buried his face into his hair. “Don’t make me go through this again, please, Zero…”

Zeroken’s body tensed next to his. “I…don’t want…it!” he suddenly shouted.

Yes!

Samuel pulled back abruptly. He placed a hand on Zeroken’s shoulder and pressed the palm of his right hand against Zeroken’s chest, in the centre of the black, pulsating veins. “Aufero!”

The black veins dissipated from Zeroken’s chest and he heaved a violent cough, hacking out black ball of poisonous slime.

It was not a pleasant spell by any means, especially for the patient. But the Seedling was not a pleasant thing to have in the body. He was literally forcing a black ball of toxic sludge from the body. It could not be naturally filtered from the body. It had to be removed. Pronto.

To prove how dangerous a Seedling was, it was still combative, even after being outed from a body and in the midst of decaying.

Samuel clutched Zeroken against his chest tightly, letting the young wolf slump against him. “Killia!”

He immediately heard the crackling flames of Killia’s Hellfire Shot. “I’ve got it!”

Samuel dropped to his knees, carefully bringing Zeroken down with him and laid him across his lap. He had immediately fallen unconscious after he used the Aufero spell, which was a natural reaction. The spell also removed the unnatural endorphins, immediately rendering him exhausted. And sleep was the best way to recover.

He did not need to be awake as he coughed and splutter up more unnatural toxic sludge.

The team’s healer, Christo was immediately by Zeroken’s side, and was shocked by the black substance he was coughing up. “Th-that black sludge?”

“No, it's a good thing, actually,” Samuel immediately reassured. “Seedlings are toxic. Getting it out of his system is the best thing for him right now. He's rejecting it.”

He rejected it.

The Seedling was completely out of his body. He was free from it.

He was safe.

That was such a relief.

“Damn it, where did that Fearcher bastard go?!” Red Magnus bellowed.

Samuel sighed as he raked his fingers through Zeroken’s hair. It did not surprise that Fearcher escaped during the chaos. Though, he had to admit he was surprise he did not try to target anyone else.

Wait…

Pulling Zeroken against his chest, Samuel hastily surveyed their surroundings. Fearcher had retrieved the Seedling to infect Zeroken from Snap Draingon in the very area they were at. The area they were still at.

“Everyone, heads up!” Samuel commanded, startled everyone greatly. “The Seedlings in this area have turned parasitical. They’ll actively search for hosts now. Keep your distance, use long rang attacks, and if possible, use elemental attacks. They’re weak against fire.”

His companions soon gathered themselves, and they formed a protective circle around him and Zeroken.

“Do they have any preferences?” Killia asked as he pulled his lithe body into a battle stance.

“No. They’re primal and instinctual, but not intelligent. They’ll target anything that moves.”

Zeroken was vulnerable. Samuel would need to do whatever was in his power to protect him. Should they bother with the Seedlings at all or just head back to the Pocket Netherworld? They still had the magical spear to deal with, though. And they could not leave the Seedlings as they were if they were to deal with said spear.

They had better get rid of them and the Snap Draingons.

His Mega Fire spells would do the trick easily enough.

“Christo, watch over Zeroken for me.”

Christo looked at him with a slightly concerned frown. “I know what you’re planning, but I have to object.”

That earned Christo a furrowed brow of confusion. “My elemental spells can-”

“Yes, probably, but you are the only one who can remove these…parasites, as it were,” Christo promptly interrupted. “As it stands, you’re our only healer in this regard. So, you’re on the backline. And don’t move.”

…Ok, there was some logic in that.

“Alright, but you guys deal with the Seedlings,” Samuel said as he readjusted his grip on Zeroken, hoping to make him more comfortable on his lap. “Once they’re dealt with, we need to get Zeroken back to the Pocket Netherverse. He needs rest now that he’s safe from the Seedling’s poison.”

Christo nodded. “You’re going to have to give me a crash course on how to help those infected with Seedlings.”

“Right.”

… … … … …

Samuel pulled the blankets to Zeroken’s chin and pressed a hand to his forehead. Thankfully, he was sleeping soundly and did not have a fever. He was not suffering from any ill side effects of the Seedling being in his body. He just needed rest in order for his body to recuperate.

He idly brushed aside the silver strands from Zeroken’s forehead as he stood up.

“How is he?” Killia asked, standing at the foot of the bed with Usalia by his side.

“He’s going to be fine,” Samuel answered. “The Seedling wasn’t in his system for very long, thankfully, so there won’t be any lasting negative effects. He’ll be back to normal in no time.”

Killia breathed an audible sigh of relief. “You got to him in time.”

Yeah. He did, didn’t he? He was finally able to save someone.

“Usalia, could you watch over Zeroken for me?” Samuel requested, and received a nod in response.

Usalia toddled over to Zeroken’s bedside and promptly sat herself down on the edge of the bed, idly swinging her legs. Samuel and Killia watched her for a moment before they turned to each other, shared a brief look with their eyes and turned to walk toward a solitary corner of the hospital.

“I saw Ronny all over again,” Samuel confessed quietly.

Killia murmured a small sigh and nodded. “Yeah.”

Samuel turned to face him. “I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“I don’t know.” Samuel leaned forward and let his forehead thump against Killia’s shoulder. “I just felt as if I should apologise.”

Killia placed his hand against the back of Samuel’s head, his fingers threading through his hair. “That’s what Fearcher would want you to do. He’s the one responsible for this.”

“I know.” Samuel understood that. A part of him did at least. But another part of him kept whispering to him that everything was his fault.

It was hard to shut that whispering voice up.

“Samuel?”

Samuel rolled his head to the side, his ear against Killia’s shoulder and his forehead brushing against his chin. “Hm?”

Killia kept his fingers idly raking through Samuel’s hair. “Were you the oldest in Nugatory?”

“No. There were many other Halflings older than me. I just took on the caretaker role.”

Mostly by choice, yet it was a decision that the elders also made for him. If he remembered correctly. He was apparently good with kids.

Truth be told, he did not remember much of the older Halflings.

“What happened to the others?”

Samuel closed his eyes. “Most of them became distant, despondent. Others tried to escape. Some chose a…more permanent way out. Using Seedlings in an attempt to make an exit, but six minutes wasn’t enough time.”

“I see…”

Nugatory…

How had he managed to survive? How had he managed to maintain his sanity? Thinking back on it, talking about it aloud, it sounded and felt all so surreal.

A forced clearing of the throat startled Samuel from his thoughts. He lifted his head from Killia’s shoulder and the two stepped away from each other. They both turned to see that Usalia stood a few feet away, her eyes half lidded and a small smile on her lips.

“Zeroken is waking up, plip,” she announced.

Oh, good.

Samuel and Killia followed Usalia back to Zeroken’s bedside, and as she had said, Zeroken was starting to stir. Samuel moved to stand on his right as Killia moved to his left, and Usalia settled on the foot of the bed.

“Zero, easy now,” Samuel began to ease him into consciousness.

“You’re back in the Pocket Netherworld,” Killia added, aiding Samuel in calming and comforting Zeroken.

Zeroken uttered a low groan as he furrowed his brow. He squeezed his eyes shut tightly only to flutter them only a moment later. His eyes were vague and blurry, but he lolled his head to the side, toward Killia.

“B-Bro?” he managed to utter out, his voice hoarse.

Killia nodded. “That’s right. The Seedling was removed. You’re going to be fine.”

Zeroken rolled his head to the other side of the bed, toward Samuel. His gaze was still unfocused, yet he recognised Samuel immediately. And he smiled goofily up at him. “I knew you could do it, Sammie.”

Sammie…?

He managed to save this one, Ronny…

Samuel managed a smile. “I’m so glad that I could.”

He could not go through that again.

Perched on the edge of the bed, Usalia leaned forward on her hands. “What made you reject the Seedling, plip?”

Zeroken laid still for a moment as he stared up at the ceiling. “Well, I thought about you guys. And how I didn’t want you guys to listen to me scream like…like how Brutus did, you know? And I thought about how sad Samuel would be.”

Sad would not be the right word.

“Wolf Pup, your death would have devastated me.”

Zeroken peered up at him. “Really?”

What kind of question was that? “Of course.”

“It would have devastated us all,” Killia added quickly.

Usalia nodded. “We’re family now, plip.”

Zeroken spent a moment gazing at the three of them before he returned his gaze to the ceiling. “Family…”

Yeah, family. For some of them, all they had was each other. They were all Samuel had left.

“What did it feel like?” Usalia suddenly asked, her attention directed entirely toward Zeroken. “It must have been scary, plip.”

Zeroken did not immediately answer. Instead, he took some time to push himself into a sitting position, wiggling backwards so that he rested against the headboard of the bed. After he was comfortable, he still remained silent, he eyes down at his lap as he chewed on his bottom lip in thought.

“It felt…strange,” he began slowly. “There was this rush of elation. Like everything was going to be all right. But I felt all tingly. I couldn’t feel my fingers or my toes. I…couldn’t feel anything.”

Samuel sighed and folded his arms lightly across his chest. “That’s the side effect of the toxin. It makes you feel invincible. But in reality, it takes away your ability to feel anything so you can’t feel the poison it’s spreading through your body. Or the way it’s attaching itself to your core.”

Zeroken’s hands tighten around the blankets that were pooled at his waist. “It was…so cruel.”

Samuel’s eyes soften. “Yes. As you now understand, how much of my pleading falls on deaf ears.”

“But you still try.”

“I have to.”

For his sake as well as theirs.

“Ah, Samuel!”

Samuel jumped. That voice was somewhat familiar, but the tone was so shrilled with panic that he did not immediately recognise it. He shot a glance across the bed at Killia, immediately catching his gaze, sharing a very brief and silent conversation with him, before the two of them bolted.

“What is it?” Samuel demanded as he and Killia exited from the hospital. “What’s wrong?”

To his immense surprise, he was greeted by a panicked Red Magnus.

“I-It’s Panchos! He’s been infected by a Seedling!”

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia x original character #killia x samuel #killia

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 25) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 25:

It was always unsettling to see Samuel lying in a hospital bed. But this time, it was far more heartbreaking. He laid on his left side, thick white bandages wrapped around his chest and back, light pink splotches seen over his right shoulder blade. He was unconscious, apparently sleeping, though Killia hazard a guess it wasn’t a peaceful slumber.

Christo was the one who attended to his injuries, quite protective of Samuel, only allowing a couple of the hospital’s healers to assist simply by handing medicine and bandages. Though, it should not be a surprise; he had quite the extensive knowledge on how to deal with injuries regarding wings.

With Samuel safe and sound nestled in bed and in the Pocket Netherworld, Killia took some time to explained to everyone what had happened to the best of his knowledge. He left out some of the graphic details, especially in regards to what Samuel did with Hellekin, despite his actions being completely justified.

What disturbed Killia the most was how…delighted Hellekin was. That man was truly deranged. To think that Samuel was trapped under his control for who knows how many years.

Hellekin was lucky that he was dead…

After Killia finished explaining everything, his companions fell into a contemplative silence.

“No wonder Samuel reacted the way he did,” Zeroken said. “Anyone in his position would have.”

Usalia nodded. “If that happened to me, my parents probably would have, plip.”

Red Magnus folded his arms across his chest and frowned. “This was done on purpose? Why?”

“From what I understand, Halflings have this unique ability, if you destroy the angel half, you will empower the demon half, creating a truly demonic entity.”

Samuel’s power had increased tremendously. But it was not wanton violence. He destroyed the Snap Draingons, defeated Hellekin, and…punished himself. No sadistic joy in any of his actions.

No. Hellekin was far more deranged and demonic than Samuel was.

Christo looked both disturbed and intrigued. “Does that mean, if we remove the demon side of a Halfling, they’ll ascend higher than that of an angel?”

“I have no idea,” Killia confessed. “I don’t even know if anything in Hellekin’s deranged ramblings can be taken as truth.”

Although, he appeared to be the type to take sadistic delight in revealing the painful, horrible truth.

“One thing I do know is that Samuel is not like us. His heart has always been pure and kind. But now, his heart been broken.” Killia looked over at the bed and a feeling of helplessness washed over him. “And I don’t know what to do to help him.”

Which was all the more unfair as Samuel had helped him in so many ways.

“Do you think it’s true?” Zeroken asked him softly. “That there’s no Halflings left in Nugatory?”

Killia shook his head. “I don’t want to believe that.” For Samuel’s sake.

“Yeah…”

Killia turned toward Christo. “How is he?”

Christo sighed as his gaze flickered toward Samuel, his eyes softening. “Well, he has done some serious damage to his back when he ripped out his wings, but there should not be any lasting effects. He…won’t be battling for a while. Which is sure to make him feel worse.”

Samuel liked to be busy. To be useful. Sitting on the sidelines was not something he was used to. Or wanted to do.

But he needed time to heal.

“The best thing we can do is let him rest,” Christo added.

“I’ll wait for him to wake up, plip,” Usalia announced. She toddled over to his bedside, crouched down and with her hand, stroked down his hair gently, trying to comfort him in her own way.

Killia was unlikely to wander very far from the hospital, either.

… … … … …

Killia had no idea how long he had been in the hospital, sitting by Samuel’s bedside. In truth, it did not matter. He had with him a couple of books, but he barely registered any of the words. His eyes kept trailing from the pages to glance over at Samuel.

He barely stirred since they had brought him back to the Pocket Netherworld, even when Christo took care of his injuries. He hoped it was a positive sign, meaning that he was not being disturbed in his dreams.

A movement from the corner of his eyes pulled Killia from his book altogether.

Zeroken entered and walked toward the foot of the bed, where Usalia sat, also waiting patiently for Samuel to awaken. “Is he still sleeping?”

Usalia nodded. “Yes, plip.”

“I just spoke to the weapon shop,” Zeroken revealed. “I asked them to make a couple of Samuel’s vests for him. He feels better when he has his back covered.”

Killia set his book aside. “He’ll appreciate that.”

His old one could not be salvaged; torn and covered entirely in blood. In his blood. It was just…thrown out. No one bared to look at it.

A soft groan from the bed made everyone jump and immediately turn their attention and full focus toward the bed. Killia pushed himself to his feet and watch, trying to be patient, as Samuel slowly stirred in his bed. He uttered another soft groan as he pressed his face into the pillow, appearing as though he wanted nothing more than to curl into himself and go back to sleep.

Yet, his eyelids fluttered and soon, his eyes opened.

And a pair of bright blue eyes were revealed.

Killia hadn’t realised how much of a brilliant blue Samuel’s eyes truly were. Even tired and half-lidded, they were quite striking.

“Ah, you’re awake!” Usalia said cheerfully.

“How are you feeling?” Zeroken asked.

Killia was about to chide the two about giving Samuel some space to recover from awakening. The words died on his lips when Samuel suddenly threw his arms around the necks of the two, dragging the two toward him and hugging them tightly.

“You two aren’t allowed to die before me…” he murmured with his face buried into their shoulders.

Both Zeroken and Usalia froze under the suddenly embrace. However, Usalia recovered first and quickly slipped her arms around Samuel in return, hugging him back tightly. And Killia mildly wondered if, in Usalia’s mind, she was picturing herself hugging her parents like she so desperately wanted to. For his part, Zeroken was a bit more hesitant, seemingly afraid to return the embrace as he might cause Samuel more harm.

Killia stood back silently, waiting patiently for the moment to play out. Until all those involved found the comfort they needed and deserved.

Some time had passed before Samuel slowly pulled his arms away from the two, his hand lingering on the back of Usalia’s head for a moment so that he could press his forehead against hers for a precious moment, the two exchanging a quiet word or two.

Just like a parent speaking to their child.

Killia felt it was time to make his presence known. “How are you feeling?”

Samuel looked up at him, his face pale and drawn, his eyes unfairly tired and miserable. “I’m sorry for all the trouble I’ve caused,” he said instead of answering Killia’s question.

He remembered everything that happened, didn’t he?

Killia turned to Usalia and Zeroken. “Could you two head into the kitchen and get things ready for me? I’m sure Samuel would like something to eat later.”

Zeroken nodded his head, quickly grasping onto the situation. “Alright. Let’s go, Usalia.”

“Ok, plip.”

Killia stood still and watched until the two were out of sight and out of hearing range before he turned his attention back to Samuel. He took a moment to inwardly prepare himself, hoping that he could help Samuel with the same amount of wisdom and understanding that he had toward him in the past.

Thinking back on it, he made it look so effortless.

Samuel sat back in his bed and clutched his right shoulder, his chin dropping toward his chest. “You…saw all that, didn’t you?” he asked quietly.

Killia moved to sit on the bed, facing him. “Yeah. That’s why I can confidently say you didn’t do anything wrong.”

“But…” Samuel shook his head, his white hair falling over his eyes. “Everything was because of me.”

“No, everything was because of Hellekin.” He paused as a feeling of déjà vu washed over him. A half smile switched onto his lips, and he reached out to slip a finger under Samuel’s chin, guiding his head up to look at him. “Remember what you said to me on Flowerful?”

Samuel appeared puzzled for a moment, only for realisation to flicker across his features and he tried to give him a small smile. “Yeah. I guess that also applies here, doesn’t it?”

His smile faded completely shortly after and he reached up with his hand to tug at Killia’s wrist, to pull his hand away from his chin. However, he kept a hold of his hand, finding some comfort in his touch. “I…I don’t understand what happened,” he said, looking at him, lost and confused. “I’ve never felt anything like it before. Everything…just hurt so much.”

Killia pressed his lips together, debating whether or not to tell Samuel what Hellekin had rambled to him. But decided to be honest with him, as he had been from the very beginning.

“Samuel, listen. I don’t know if this is true, but Hellekin said something. He said that Halflings have this unique ability. That if they have their heart broken, if they have their angelic side overtaken by the demon side, they are able to transform into something truly demonic.”

“What?” Samuel uttered as horror filtered across his face. “Did I-? Was that-? Do I need to keep control of my demonic side?”

“No.” Killia cupped the side of Samuel’s face to stop him from panicking. “As Christo said before; that wasn’t your demonic side, that was the manifestation of the pain and suffering you’ve endured your entire life. We need to find a way for you to accept your broken heart and learn to mourn.”

Samuel stared at him with his big blue eyes silently before, slowly, releasing a breath and relaxing. “Thinking about myself, huh? That may be the most difficult thing I’ve ever done.”

Killia nodded. “You’re not very good with being honest with yourself.”

Samuel pouted, a tiny bit of colour returning to his cheeks. “That’s not fair; neither are you.”

“That’s fair. I guess we’re more honest with each other than we are to ourselves.”

A soft smile graced Samuel’s lips and he looked away, leaning his cheek into Killia’s palm. He even found comfort in his hand, which was a…strange feeling. For year, so many years, Killia’s hands, his fists had caused so much harm and devastation, and yet now, his hand brought Samuel comfort.

“I…” Samuel sighed and rested his hand against Killia’s. “I really am sorry for everything. If I had stayed in Nugatory, then this mess with the Seedlings may never have happened.”

Killia shook his head. “If you had stayed in Nugatory, and Hellekin had still unleashed these Seedlings throughout the Netherverse, we would not have known what to do. We’d have no idea what was actually going on. We, ourselves, may actually be victims. And…if you had stayed in Nugatory, then I may not be the man I am today.”

Samuel’s eyes widen ever so slightly, and his lips parted in soft surprise. “You think so?” he asked, not in disbelief, but hopeful.

So, Killia nodded his head. “I know so.”

A hopeful spark of life returned to Samuel’s eyes and he smiled gently. “…I’m glad to have met you, Killia,” he said as he unexpectedly pushed forward, wrapping his arms around Killia’s neck. “You really are the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Though stunned by Samuel’s own words, Killia instinctively wrapped his arms around him in return.

…Hah. To go from a Tyrant Overlord to being a genuine comfort to someone.

“Yeah…”

… … … … …

Samuel sat with his back against the headboard of his hospital bed, a thick blanket draped around his shoulders and covering his back. The bed had been moved, positioned so that he could gaze out into the vast Netherverse outside the thick, dense panelled windows.

He had been frequently visited by the others. Except Seraphina, which was not a surprise. And honestly, it was for the best. It would be awkward and forced at best. They were not on the best of terms, and after what he had been through, a forced connection between the two would not help. Either of them.

The reasons for the frequent visits were numerous; to keep him company, to check on his health, to keep his mind busy and from wandering. But mostly, just to ensure that he was all right.

He…had scared them. Quite a bit, it seemed.

Samuel was honestly glad for the visits. He did not like his mind wandering too far. Did not like remembering what…happened. It hurt too much to remember.

But some memories would not be kept at bay, no matter how much he tried to force them back.

Ronny…

Why? Why did he have to die like that? Why did he listen to Hellekin? He was their warden. Their captor. Their abuser. What had happened in the time he had been away? How did he leave?

Just…there were so many questions. And they hurt to think about.

“Ah, Samuel. Good, you’re awake. Let me have a look at that back of yours.”

Samuel forcibly shoved his thoughts aside and dutifully gave Christo a patient smile as he shuffled away from the backboard. He leaned forward, allowing for Christo to remove the thick bandages and wadding to look at the wounds on the right side of his upper back.

He never liked exposing his back, with the numerous scars and old injuries. And the fact that he had three more, self-inflicted ones at that, made him all the more self-conscious.

Christo did not make any comments on the many scars, however, and Samuel was grateful for that consideration.

Pulling his legs to his chest and resting his arms on his knees in an attempt to get comfortable, Samuel turned his head toward Christo. “Christo, can I ask a favour of you?”

Christo looked at him and arched an eyebrow. “This is rare. What is it?”

“Can you teach me how to heal?”

That earned him a positively puzzled look from Christo. “But you know how to heal already. You kept Usalia alive, didn’t you?”

“Only just. You were the one who saved her life.”

And since he was half angel, he figured that he might be able to learn a bit of angel magic. Of course, he was not able to actually make that request aloud, so he hoped Christo would catch on.

Of course, there was another reason he wanted to learn more healing.

“I always thought that there was no way to save the lives of the victims of Seedlings once they began to sprout. But…what if that wasn’t true?”

He tried…he tried so hard…

“Samuel…” Christo sighed. “I don’t think I can help with that.”

Samuel felt a twinge in his chest. “You…looked?”

Christo cast a healing spell on his back. “It was as you said; once the Seedling took hold of the victim’s core, there was nothing that could be done.”

“I see…So, there really was no way to save Ronny.”

He did not want to hear that, and yet, he did. That meant all the lives he had seen lost before his eyes could not have been saved, no matter what he could have done. Regardless of what spell or magic he knew.

No one could have saved them; demon, halfling, or angel.

It was…depressing, honestly.

“I still want to learn more about healing from you, though,” Samuel insisted. “We need to take care of our little demon family.”

Christo gave him a small smile. “We’ll see if we have the time. Now, sit up. I need to redress your bandages.”

Samuel dutifully did as he was told. As he sat there, allowing for Christo to carefully reset his dressings, a particular thought occurred to him. When Killia learnt that Samuel was a Halfling, he was surprised and shocked. He had never heard of such a thing. And within the history that Samuel had learnt of the Netherverse, it was never mentioned anywhere of Halflings.

But he knew nothing of the history of Celestia.

“Does it…bother you?” Samuel asked slowly. “That I am a Halfling? You know, half demon, half angel?”

Christo momentarily paused in his healing. “Hm? Have I given the indicating that it does?”

Samuel shook his head. “No. I just wanted to ask. Since my existence is blasphemous and all.”

It should especially be against the laws of angels, after all.

“Why should it bother me?” Christo asked.

Samuel smiled. Ok, still maintaining his demon ruse, then. “I just wanted to ask.”

Christo returning to redressing the bandages, working silently. He quickly tied them off and patted Samuel on the back, indicating that he was free to move about (under strict conditions, of course) once more.

He stepped back, allowing Samuel room to grab a light blanket to drape around his shoulders and back, giving him coverage and security.

“Can I ask you something?” Christo suddenly asked him.

“Hm?”

A frown tugged at Christo’s lips. “You said that Halflings are taken to Nugatory as punishment. Who or what is taking them there?”

That was a very good question.

“I’m afraid I don’t know,” Samuel replied, regretful. “I was just a child when I ended up there. My earliest memory was when my…” he trailed off, his back twitching with pain.

“Your?” Christo prodded.

Samuel could not prevent a grimace. “When my wings were ripped from my back.”

Christo’s eyes widen, his mouth dropping open in surprise. Unexpectedly, a flash of anger appeared on his face for a moment before it was quickly smothered into an expression of empathy.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I will admit that I never knew of the existence of Halflings. I had never encountered them during all my research in Cel-Certain Giant. But now that I do, I would like to investigate it further. Especially the less-than-ideal treatment…”

Christo gave him a tight smile as he quickly prattled off a few standard ‘no training’ and ‘no heavy lifting’ spiels along with a few words of advice about taking better care of himself, and such. He then turned on his heel and quickly walked away.

And as Christo walked away, Samuel noted that he had reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He had no idea who Christo was going to call, perhaps that ‘superior’ had often complained about.

Maybe, just maybe, if he tried a little harder, if he could talk a little louder about his experiences, then maybe future Halflings won’t have to endure the pain and suffering that he had to endure.

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 19) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Info duuuuuuuuuump time :’D

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 19:

Killia stood by Samuel’s hospital bed, watching with a careful gaze as Christo attended to an unconscious Samuel. He had assured him that he had just passed out from mild pain and fatigue, and there wasn’t anything truly nefarious going on.

It…had been an eventful day.

And Killia shouldered half of the blame.

He had lost control. Killidia had been unleashed. He…had allowed him be released. When he thought he lost Samuel to the Lost Army. It wasn’t just Samuel he thought he lost to his incompetence. But Seraphina and Zeroken. Seraphina in front of his eyes, and Zeroken to the same soldiers that took Samuel.

And just like Killidia had warned him; when he thought he lost Samuel, his Other-Self would be unleashed. There was nothing he could do to stop him.

He didn’t even try.

But Samuel hadn’t been taken. He had appeared. In front of him. Alive. Unharmed. Just like…

Hah. He wanted to say like some kind of an angel. Out of the darkness, there he was. And the dark that shrouded his mind, the malice of Killidia just vanished. All he remembered was Samuel’s big blue eyes, the feel of his presence, and relief that he was alive.

He vaguely recalled the things that Killidia had done. How he destroyed the Lost Soldiers. The first to fall as the soldier that thrown Samuel’s axe at him. She…died brutally. The others fell quickly after.

His allies…could have been next. Red Magnus, he fought against him. He could have…

The guilt Killia felt was immense.

Thankfully, he hadn’t hurt anyone. Didn’t do any irreparable damage to anyone.

It was so close…

Yet, there was another concern bothering him; they had an unexpected, and unwanted, guest.

Killia had been unconscious at the time. Rather, swimming into consciousness when Overlord Brutus made his grand entrance. How he made his way into the Pocket Netherworld needed to be investigated. And promptly fixed.

From what he understood, the power he emitted was immense. Not unlike the power that Killia himself had revealed when Killidia had taken over. But less controlled, primal, savage even. Unstable.

The damage to the Pocket Netherworld had been limited, thankfully. Samuel had…done the right thing getting Brutus out before he could do anything truly destructive – or deadly. Killia just wished that he hadn’t done it alone.

Yet, he knew the situation better than anyone, it seemed.

How desperate their situation had been, they would have to wait until he awakened.

“How is he?” Killia asked as Christo moved away from Samuel’s bedside.

Christo sighed as he removed his glasses and began to clean them with a white cloth from his pocket. “Well, his arm is fractured, so he won’t be using it for a couple of days. He has a couple of other injuries, mostly to his chest, but nothing serious.”

Ironic. Killidia had been unleashed, and Samuel walked away unharmed. Yet, some random Overlord barged his way into the Pocket Netherworld, and Samuel was the only one injured.

“Never mind Samuel for now, Sir Killia,” Seraphina said as she moved to stand in front of him, planting her hands on her hands in a determined manner. “I would like to know what happened with you.”

Killia winced. “Yeah. I…” he sighed and sunk down to sit on the edge of Samuel’s bed, his shoulders sagging forward as he rested his elbows on his knees. He looked up, toward his allies, toward everyone; Seraphina, Christo, Red Magnus, Zeroken, and Usalia.

Where could he begin?

“I owe you guys an explanation. And an apology.”

Red Magnus, however, laughed. Good-naturedly at that. “Don’t worry about it! It was pretty entertaining to go toe-to-toe with you for once.”

“We are relieved that you’re back to normal, however,” Christo added with a smile. “Samuel explained to us that this ‘other self’ of yours is called Killidia.”

Now that surprised Killia. “He did?”

Christo nodded his head idly as he replaced his glasses. “Yes. He also said that he only reveals himself when you’re stressed or haven’t eaten enough. Is that why you eat as much as you do? You’ve been trying to suppress this ‘other self’?”

“Y-yeah, that’s right.”

But how? Killia had never mentioned anything to Samuel. He would remember if he did. How could he possibly have known?

Was…that why Samuel always made sure he had enough to eat?

“What else did he say?”

“Nothing else.” Christo unexpectedly glanced in Seraphina’s direction. “There was…a few disagreements.”

…Samuel and Seraphina got into an argument again about him again, didn’t they?

Seraphina was unperturbed by Christo’s insinuation. “Now, Sir Killia, care to explain what this ‘Killidia’ actually is?”

“I’ll try to explain to the best of my knowledge. Inside of me is something vicious. Something I can barely control. Destructive, violent impulses from when I was Tyrant Overlord Killidia. With him, lies the strong, overwhelming desire to destroy everything. That…was what he wanted, what he tried to do today.”

What he allowed him to do after…when he thought…

“This other self. You can’t control it?”

Killia shook his head. “No. Not entirely. I’ve been doing whatever it takes to suppress my Other-Self, this Killidia. Every day. And now, I’m at my limit.”

“Interesting.” Christo murmured as he folded an arm across his chest and tapped his cheek in thought. “Yet, Samuel said that he had encountered this Killidia before. And claimed that he wasn’t violent and destructive then. And that he was actually protective.”

What?

“What else did Samuel say about Killidia?” Killia quickly asked.

“Only that he didn’t fear him, plip,” Usalia was the one to reply.

“Right,” Zeroken added with a wolfish grin. “He said whether you were Killia or Killidia, you would never hurt him, so he’s got nothing to be afraid of.”

He said that…?

Christo paced the floor for a moment, looking between Killia and Samuel. “I think it would be best if Killia and Samuel stay close to one another,” he suddenly stated.

Seraphina immediately looked displeased. “Why is that?”

“Because Samuel was able to push Killidia back when no one else could, plip,” Usalia, once again, answered in Christo’s place.

“Indeed. This Killidia seems rather fond of Samuel.”

Fond…?

That couldn’t be the right word, could it? Killidia didn’t know any such tenderness. He saw Samuel as a possession.

“I’m naturally against the idea as Samuel himself seems to be hiding some dark secrets of his own.”

Hm. Seraphina wasn’t there when Killia went after Samuel and Brutus. Someone else must have told her what happened.

“I’m also greatly disappointed with you, Sir Killia,” Seraphina continued as she stood before him once more. “You should have told us all of this sooner. Why did you think you could handle this all on your own? Rather, why was Samuel the only one allowed to know?”

He supposed she had the right to be indignant and resentful. One problem;

“The truth is, I never told Samuel any of this either. He…must have worked it out on his own.”

He was…very attentive.

A soft moan interrupted any further conversation and Killia immediately pivoted to look behind him. Samuel’s brow furrowed, his eyes pinched shut. His features smoothed out a moment later as his eyelashes fluttered open, his head lolling to the side as he took in his surroundings. His movements sluggish thanks to the haziness of wading through post-sleep.

“Ah! Samuel’s awake!” Usalia announced happily.

Killia stood up from the foot of the bed and moved so that he stood by Samuel’s beside. “How are you feeling?”

Samuel tried to smile reassuringly at him but winced as he struggled to sit himself up. So, Killia helped him up and leaned him against the pillows and headboard. “A little sore and sorry for myself, but all right.”

With thick bandages around one arm, bruises marring the other, and splotchy discolorations on his chest, it was hardly a surprise.

“Really,” Christo sighed. “Killia, and now you. I don’t think our hearts can take too much more of this.”

“Especially after you dragged that guy out of the Pocket Netherworld all on your own!” Though it was clear that Zeroken was relieved to see that he was awake, he also couldn’t help but chide him.

The same with Red Magnus. “What were you doing, S-Man? Trying to be the big hero on your own?”

“Sorry,” Samuel said in response with a half-smile, leaning forward as Usalia fluffed up a pillow behind him to make him more comfortable. “I had good reason to, I promise.”

“Well, your arm has been fractured,” Christo explained. “You won’t be using it for a couple of days.”

Samuel sighed as he laid said arm across his torso. “Ah, at least it isn’t broken.”

Killia sat down in the chair next to his bed. “Samuel-”

“You have a lot of questions,” Samuel cut him off, peering at him through one eye and with a knowing half-smile. “That’s fair. I’m just going to assume that all my memories are true until proven otherwise. So, I’ll tell you everything that I know and remember. And hope that I am wrong. There’s a lot to unload here, so feel free to stop me whenever I start rambling. Where would you like for me to begin?”

“Could you start with what that thing was that came from Brutus?”

Samuel sighed and leaned back against the pillows. “That was a Snap Draingon, a mutated form of a Seedling. It’s a by-product from something known as the Tree of Death, a misshapen tree that acts as the very core of Nugatory. These Seedlings are made up of highly condensed magical properties and when ingested, give its host the sense of euphoria and the power of ten-thousand Overlords.”

To say that Killia was surprised would be an understatement. There…was quite a lot to unpack there. “Something like that exists?”

“Whatya mean ten-thousand Overlords?!” Red Magnus spluttered.

Samuel nodded. “Yes, but there is a catch.”

“Only for six minutes?” Killia asked.

“Yes. It takes six minutes for a Seedling to take root within the host’s body and upon the six-minute mark, it begins to sprout and manifest into Snap Draingons. During this stage, it devours and destroys its host so completely and utterly that there is nothing left. No chance of reincarnation. Nothing. When that stage is reached, there is nothing that can be done to save the host’s life.” Samuel sighed again. “It’s…far too late.”

No wonder Brutus screamed like he did. To be eaten alive, from the inside out…

“But before the six-minute mark?”

Samuel trailed his fingers over the bandages adorning his right arm. “There is still a chance. I can remove the Seedling from their body. But it requires their consent and willingness to comply. And…since they are in such a euphoric state, with immense power, they are unwilling to give it up. No matter how many times I tell them that their very existence is in jeopardy. And, well, demons will be demons.”

And, with this war, Killia imagined some demons were so desperate for power in order to protect their home worlds from the Lost Army that they would do anything.

Christo frowned. “What of these Snap Draingons?”

“They are a form of sentinel plant life and can be extremely dangerous. They are connected to the Tree of Death, and their sole purpose appears to be gathering energy for said tree, either by draining the environment of which they find themselves in, or by devouring any unfortunate demon that happens to get in range of their attack. They gather their energy the quickest this way. They, themselves, are capable of producing their own Seedlings. Although, they aren’t capable of producing Seedlings as powerful as the ones produced from the Tree of Death.”

“Why? What purpose does gathering energy for this Tree of Death hold?”

Samuel shook his head. “I’m afraid I don’t know. I don’t know why this tree continues to create these Seedlings, or why Snap Draingons continue to gather energy for the Tree of Death after devouring its host. What purpose any of this has. I can only assume that the Tree of Death is amassing power for an insidious purpose.”

There is no positive reason for gathering so much energy.

“Wait a moment, Samuel,” Seraphina suddenly interjected. “Nugatory? But that is nothing but a myth and legend.”

Samuel flickered his gaze over toward Seraphina and shook his head resolutely. “No, it is real. And that is where I am from.”

Usalia tilted her head to the side. “Nugatory is Samuel’s home world, plip?”

“More like a prison…”

“Prison?” Red Magnus repeated, oblivious to Samuel’s discomfort. “Don’t you need to commit a crime to go to prison?”

Samuel stared down at the blankets folded on his lap and nodded his head slowly. “Yeah. And my crime was being born.”

Red Magnus blinked. “I don’t get it.”

Killia reached out to touch his hand to Samuel’s shoulder. “Maybe we should drop this subject.”

Samuel turned his head and smiled softly at him. He drew in a slow breath and then shook his head. “No, it’s ok. It’ll come out sooner or later, I suppose.”

“I take it you already know, Sir Killia?” Seraphina asked in an accusatory tone.

Killia nodded. “I do.”

Seraphina pouted, rather unimpressed. “What other secrets have the two of you been sharing?”

It certainly seemed that they had been purposely keeping secrets from the others. That…hadn’t been his intention. It was simply…easier to speak with Samuel. His conversations easier. Natural.

He never pushed him. Never made demands or ultimatums. He asked and waited patiently for an answer. It was that…simple.

“Well, in short, I’m considered a…” Samuel hesitated, almost afraid, before just choosing to blurt out; “a Halfling. Half demon, and half angel.”

Everyone’s reactions were varying degrees of surprise, disbelief, and shock.

“What? No way,” Zeroken uttered as he took a half step back in surprise. “You’re half angel?”

Christo looked positively bewildered. “An offspring between a demon and an angel? That should be impossible.”

Samuel him a sympathetic smile, knowing that he may be struggling with the notion the hardest. “Yet here I am.”

“I-I’m not doubting you.”

“It’s alright.” Samuel grabbed his fractured arm and cradled it against his chest as he sighed. “Both demon and angel, but neither. An abomination. An atrocity. A blasphemous creation that should not exist. That’s what I am.”

Usalia’s ears drooped as she looked at Samuel sadly. “Samuel…”

Those insults…it was clear that he had heard them many times in his life.

“As punishment for our existence,” he continued, “we are to spend our lives battling against Seedlings and ensuring that they don’t make their way out into the three worlds.”

Who…? Who saw to this ‘punishment’? Who enforced it? Who formed it? Who was the bastard that ripped Samuel’s wings from his back as a child?

Who dared to hurt Samuel for something he had no control over?

N-no, calm down. Killia couldn’t afford Killidia making a reappearance so soon. Even if his bristling protectiveness was justified.

“You see,” Samuel had yet more to reveal, “the Tree of Death continuously creates Seedlings, and Seedlings themselves have lifespans. If they do not find or are not given hosts within seven days of their inception, they start to decay. It is in this decaying stage that they take on another form, one where they become parasitical, searching for hosts for themselves. They take on the forms of larva and must be destroyed. They are what we Halflings spend the majority of our lives battling. And what I’ve seen others fall to. But there are times when power-hungry demons, and even some humans, have made their way to Nugatory in search for ultimate power. They all paid with their lives. As did some Halflings.”

“You…saw these deaths?” Zeroken asked, appearing almost afraid to ask.

Samuel nodded his head once. “I eased them through it the best I could, yes.”

That was what he meant by his duty…

“B-but, those screams…”

Samuel gave Usalia a sad, empathetic smile. “Yeah. They don’t get any easier to listen to. No one deserves to die alone. Not in such agony.”

How could anyone stand hearing those screams time and time again, and not be affected by them?

No, he was definitely affected by them. Knowing Samuel, he wouldn’t show how much he was in front of others. He would keep it to himself. As to not to worry others. To keep others calm and safe.

To not bother them. To not burden them.

Killia was sure of it.

Samuel suddenly pushed back the blankets and crossed his legs, his frown marring his face. “Never mind any of that now. What I’m more worried about is how these Seedlings are getting out into the Netherverse. Where did Brutus get his Seedling? Are there others? Or did he make his way to Nugatory?”

Christo sighed as he pushed at the frame of his glasses. “Those are some very concerning questions.”

Seraphina nodded. “If the rumours of demons dying in horrific manners suddenly are true, then these Seedlings have been floating around the Netherverse for a while now.”

Samuel’s frown deepened. “Then why haven’t I encountered them…?”

“They’re sentient, right? Maybe they are avoiding you?” Killia offered.

Samuel closed his eyes as he allowed that suggestion to mellow in his mind for a moment. “Hm. Maybe. I was one of the best defenders in Nugatory. Could they have developed a caution toward me?”

His brow suddenly furrowed as he shook his head, and he opened his eyes. “That’s even worse. I need to find these other Seedlings and Snap Draingons, and destroy them before they get out of hand. Even just a couple of them could cause untold chaos throughout the Netherverse. But this war…”

Killia sat back in his seat and closed his eyes. Christo had told him that Brutus had specifically asked for the leader of the Rebel Army when he barged his way into the Pocket Netherworld. Had he been part of the Lost Army? If so, then someone may be attempting to use these Seedlings for the benefit for the Lost.

Yet, these Snap Draingons were also taking energy away from the magical spears. Seems counterintuitive to be using them.

Something else was going on.

“Well, we’ll have to deal with this later,” Christo stated. “Killia, Samuel; you two need rest. As does Seraphina. We’ll talk more on this tomorrow.”

Killia nodded and stood from his chair, instinctively reaching out to help Samuel from the hospital bed. “I’ll help you back to our room. We’ll be more comfortable there.”

“Right.”

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 16) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Ok, I rewrote “Unbridled Killia” in order to fit into my story, so it won’t follow exactly how it was in the game. So, yeah, quite a few artistic liberties were taken here. Hope you enjoy reading, nevertheless.

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 16:

Fortress de Gaulle…

Was nothing more smouldering ruins. Killia couldn’t tell how it was once. How the residents once used to live. Buildings had been levelled to their foundations. Any and all recognisable structures purposely devastated to ensure that should there be survivors, there would be nothing left for them to return to. Nothing left for them to hold onto.

As the Rebel Army grew in strength, so did the Lost Army’s malevolence.

The further they moved into the Netherworld, the more devastating the destruction became. Even the Lost Soldiers themselves were more brutal in their attacks.

They should have been here sooner.

No, they should have confronted Void Dark sooner.

No, Killia should have defeated Void sooner. He had two chances. Two.

But he didn’t.

‘All of this could have been avoided if you had just unleashed me,’ his Other-Self taunted.

Killia curled his hand into a fist in an attempt to ignore his Other-Self’s sneer. He refused to acknowledge him. He refused to go back to that way of life. He couldn’t…

A hand grasped his shoulder, offering a comforting squeeze. “Killia, are you all right?” Samuel asked him gently.

“It’s…nothing.”

Samuel squeezed his shoulder again. “Killia.”

Killia sighed. He knew he couldn’t brush Samuel aside. “…Void has already taken too many lives. We…we should take the fight to him.”

“If we do that than it’s assured that he would take even more lives,” Samuel returned. “We’re leading by example. We’re gaining ground, Killia.”

Were they?

Christo did say that their numbers were beginning to match the numbers of the Lost Army. That they were beginning to inspire other Overlords and demons to fight against the Lost Soldiers, to protect their Netherworlds, to defend their prides as Demons.

But was it enough?

Were they inspiring them to simply throw their lives away? To virtually commit suicide by fighting back?

Killia didn’t know anymore.

“Killia, I’m worried about you.”

Worried about him.

Samuel was always worried about him.

“You’re carrying heavy burdens,” Samuel continued. “You don’t have to carrying them all on your own.”

That was the thing; he should be.

Yet, Samuel literally carried with him a bag on his back. A bag with food in hopes of suppressing his Other-Self. He offered to carry it as Killia’s battle techniques required more agility, while Samuel’s weapon required more upper body strength, and his elemental magic allowed him to move onto the backline should the need call for it.

It wasn’t right.

Samuel was participating in the war for Killia’s sake. He had no stakes in it. None. Yet, he was throwing himself into danger constantly for Killia’s sake.

That wasn’t…

At this rate, he could…

He needed to find a way to get Samuel off the battlefield. The further away Samuel was from him, from his Other-Self, the safer he would be. He needed to find an excuse to get Samuel back to the relative safety of the Pocket Netherworld.

But what? And how? Samuel would never voluntarily leave the battlefield. Leave his side. He was…

His right-hand man, after all.

“Killia,” Christo called out to him. “I have been thinking.”

“Hm?”

“About a possible way to reveal your true power,” Christo revealed. “Zeroken had his master and uncertainty. Red Magnus had his Netherworld and misdirected anger. And Usalia had her parents and her guilt. What of you?”

Killia glanced over toward his teammates before averting his gaze back to the crumbling ruins of Fortress de Gaulle and sighed. “No. There’s no secret, special ability. Besides, if there was, it would means opening up your heart. I don’t have one. I only have revenge on my mind.”

“That’s not even close to the truth,” Samuel stated. In fact, he almost sounded offended by the mere suggestion.

Killia almost smiled. But it was true. Samuel didn’t know what he was like before.

Samuel sighed as he approached him. “Killia, you once told me that she gave you a heart. But in your next breath, claim you don’t have one. Which is it?”

Killia’s eyes widened, and he turned around to look directly at Samuel. He wanted to say something, to refute him in some way. But he couldn’t think of what to say. He did tell Samuel that he credited Lieze for being the one to give him a heart. Yet, he…he couldn’t have one.

It was impossible.

But did that mean…?

If he didn’t have a heart, then Lieze’s impact on his life didn’t actually matter…?

No, she did matter. He had changed. For the better. He had been reborn. He wasn’t Tyrant Overlord Killidia anymore. He wasn’t that blood-thirsty…savage anymore.

So that meant…?

“You may not believe you have a heart, but I know for a fact that you do have one,” Samuel continued, resolute in his words. “If you didn’t have one, what or who are you seeking revenge for?”

He wanted revenge against Void for what he did to Lieze. For what he did to Goldion. For what he had done to demons and Netherworlds across the Netherverse. For everyone who had ever suffered before of Void and the Lost Army.

That…was the reason, wasn’t it?

Samuel…

“‘She’?” Seraphina suddenly question, her features marred in a deep frown. “Who is this ‘she’ that you speak of?”

…That was right. They didn’t know about Lieze and his past, did they?

Christo fidgeted with his glasses. “Samuel, I take it you know of Killia’s past?”

Samuel looked over his shoulder and nodded. “I do. But don’t ask me. I won’t tell you.”

Loyal to a fault.

“No,” Seraphina said firmly, sternly, clearly unwilling to let the subject drop. “I believe I have the right to know what is bothering Sir Killia.”

“The middle of the battlefield is hardly the place for it,” Samuel was quick to retort.

To be fair, they’ve had personal discussions out in the field before. So, Samuel’s retort wasn’t entirely accurate. He was being protective.

Seraphina would not be dissuaded. “That is easy for you to say. You already know. You do not have the right to act superior.

“Act superior?” Samuel baulked at the notion. “It’s called being considerate. I know it’s something that is foreign to you.”

“Enough!” Killia needed to interfere before Seraphina unholstered her guns.

He also couldn’t have his teammates fighting over him. They needed to concentrate. They had a Netherworld to save and a Lost Army to defeat. He would…have to consider Samuel’s words later. When they returned to the Pocket Netherworld.

“Sorry for worrying everyone,” Killia continued. “It’s not something I wish to discuss right at this moment. As Samuel said, the battlefield isn’t the best place. I’m all right. I just need a moment.”

Samuel turned away from Seraphina and shrugged off the bag from his back, readily handing it to Killia.

Christo watched the two of them in curiosity. “A moment to…?”

Killia sat down on the ground and opened the bag, pulling out a few containers of already prepared food, earning himself an audible sigh from Christo.

“Eat. Of course.”

They were close to the magical spear. They had already battled their way through several battalions of Lost Soldiers. The leader was just ahead. The Overlord was likely also close by. He needed to be on top of his game.

They had wasted enough time because of him.

“Well, since you are eating, you can also tell us who ‘she’ is,” Seraphina cheerfully insisted.

Samuel shot her a glare. For as long as Killia had known him, he had never seen him look so agitated with someone. To not only look agitated, but to actively reveal how annoyed he was.

The two of them were getting under each other’s skin.

The whole situation was troubling everyone, it seemed.

“Would you just relent already? Let’s give him a moment to eat something before we proceed. We don’t have much time.”

“Are you saying that you can’t do anything without relying on Killia’s reputation and skills?”

“That is a lot coming from you. You didn’t even know how to proceed on the battlefield without Killia’s guidance.”

“Then prove me wrong, Samuel.”

And they went straight back to arguing. About him. Over him, really.

‘How much longer are you going to let someone else do the fighting for you?’ his Other-Self snarled.

Killia answered by shovelling more food into his mouth. He could feel his Other-Self stirring, smirking. Food wasn’t enough. Not anymore.

He was also running out of time.

‘Go ahead and cling onto that weak heart of yours,’ his Other-Self continued to sneer. ‘It’s only a matter of time. But remember my warning. Lose him, and this Netherverse is done.’

Killia hastily swallowed the rest of his food, pushing aside the abstract fear he felt as his Other-Self’s words echoed in his head. His gazed flickered toward Samuel and he tried to ease his worries by observing him silently. He had stopped arguing with Seraphina, likely having him pulled away from her by the others. He knelt on the ground, rustling through the bag to empty the rest of the contents as he spoke with Christo.

It had been a couple of days since his encounter with Void, so his bruises and injuries had naturally faded. Still, Killia’s gaze lingered on his arms and throat. Where marks of Void’s hands and fingers had once marred his skin.

He soon regretted that line of thought as a wave of intense guilt washed over him. And he remembered a certain question that his Other-Self had asked him last night;

How many times had he nearly gotten Samuel killed?

He didn’t know. But once, he was sure of.

“Killia, I believe I have located this Netherworld’s Overlord,” Christo stated suddenly. “And he appears to be engaging with the Lost in battle.”

Killia quickly finished his food and took to his feet. “Then let’s hurry.”

The others nodded their heads in agreement and without a word, they broke out into a run as they headed toward the broken, crumbling remains of the once grand palace.

If he remembered correctly, the Overlord of Fortress de Gaulle was known as Brave. He could only hope he lived up to his name. If he was still alive, then there was still a chance to save others.

Killia couldn’t let anyone else suffer because of Void Dark.

Yet, as they reached steps of the palace, a band of Lost Soldiers appeared behind them suddenly.

An ambush. Since they were protecting the spear, they were likely to be elite soldiers.

“More Lost Soldiers,” Christo murmured. “Looks like they’re trying for the Pincer Formation.”

Samuel glanced at the Lost Soldiers behind them, before he turned his gaze toward the palace, and then back again. He closed his eyes for a brief moment only to open them with an expression of determination on his face.

He walked over to Zeroken and looped an arm around his neck and shoulders as he balanced his axe upon his own shoulder. “Let’s go, Wolf Pup. Let’s take the initiative. Just you and me. With your Superluminal Wolf, we can take on this Lost Army battalion. And we may be able to find some survivors while we’re at.”

Wait, what…?

“What are you thinking, Samuel?” Christo was the one to ask.

“This Netherworld can’t handle the magical spear for much longer,” Samuel returned. “You guys need to reach the spear and help Overlord Brave save his Netherworld. We can’t waste any more time. And this is what this is; wasting our time.”

He…had a point.

And finding survivors. That was the safer option, wasn’t it? Away from the spear. Away from the majority of the Lost Army. Away from the leader of the brigade.

Away from him.

It didn’t feel right, however.

“What do you say, Zeroken?”

Zeroken looked up at Samuel before he nodded, filled with determination himself. “You got it, Samuel.”

Samuel smiled and ruffled his hair. “Glad to hear it. I’ll make you some pork curry when we get back. Let’s go.”

“…Wait.”

Samuel turned around, his gaze colliding with Killia’s. For a long, lingering moment their gazes simply locked with one another’s before Samuel smiled, comfortingly, reassuringly. “Everyone, keep going forward. We’ll be fine. We won’t let this band of Lost Soldiers interfere. Find this Netherworld’s Overlord. Destroy the magical spear. We’ll meet up with you soon.”

With that, he turned on his heel, and with axe in hand and Zeroken by his side, they headed straight toward the band of Lost Soldiers. Ready to engage them in battle. For the sake of the Netherworld. For their sake.

For Killia’s sake.

“Let’s go, Sir Killia,” Seraphina insisted. “Samuel has done nothing but cause you trouble lately. About time he proves himself, don’t you think?”

That wasn’t true. Samuel had proven his worthy plenty of times. He was a talented and skilled fighter. In fact, he had nothing to prove.

Still…

No, he had to trust Samuel and Zeroken.

Steeling himself, Killia turned away and headed into the palace.

Inside was as damaged as the outside, with pillars and support columns broken and toppled. They ignored the debris and destruction, their intent focused on the throne room where the magical spear appeared to be.

And where a Horseman and a Twin Dragon bearing the Lost Army emblem stood over the unmoving form of a Bear.

Overlord Brave had been defeated. Was he…dead?

Damn it, had they been too late?!

“Sir Killia, behind you!”

What-?

Killia whirled around, only to be blinded by a flash of silver steel mixed with the colour of pink.

And red.

Killia stilled, his breath hitching in his throat when he heard the distinct sound of something, rather someone hitting the hard, stone ground at his feet.

A body. A delicate, fragile body.

A sound. One he had heard before.

With wide, unblinking eyes Killia stared down at the ground. Where Seraphina laid, unmoving. With an increasing pool of blood around her body.

Seraphina, she-?

Killia turned his gaze toward the Magic Knight responsible, who stood just a few feet away, smirking. Revelling in her accomplishments. A low growl erupted from Killia’s throat, and he sprung forward.

The Magic Knight had no time to respond as he delivered a savage Rising Domination to her chin.

Why? Why did others keep sacrificing themselves for him?!

With the threat taken care of, Killia spun back around and dropped to his knees by Seraphina’s side. But he knew not to touch her, despite instinct telling him to, as he could cause her more damage. He couldn’t afford that. He couldn’t be reckless.

He wasn’t a healer by any stretch of the imagination. He couldn’t…he couldn’t hold another in his arms. He couldn’t bear to hear her last words again.

He couldn’t!

“Christo, hurry up and heal her!” he barked.

“R-right away!”

Still crouched low to the ground, Killia turned around when he heard the footsteps of another approaching. He tensed when he caught the sight of something silver aimed toward him and the sound of metal hitting stone.

He soon realised that an axe had been impeded into the stone close to where he was.

An Armor Knight sauntered into view and casually tossed something else toward Killia. Something soft in material. He paid it no mind, however.

Killia’s vision narrowed in on the weapon in front of him. “That…axe…”

He recognised that axe.

“Hm, from a warrior, if I am correct,” the Armor Knight practically purred with sadistic delight. “From the Rebel Army. Something about doing this for someone called Killia’s sake. You wouldn’t happen to know him, would you? With a little werewolf companion. One wearing that black headband, you may recognise. Hm?”

“…Samuel…Zeroken…”

How did…that axe?

Samuel wouldn’t have relinquished his grip on that axe. That was his main weapon. Unless…

Unless…

Samuel…

Killia couldn’t breathe and his world suddenly turned black.

‘Bastard! I warned you. I warned you. Now…I will destroy everything!’

…Go ahead. He didn’t care anymore…

Destroy them all.

“Urrraaaaaaaggggggghhhhhh!!!”

Killia knew that he was screaming. Yelling with a primal rage, and yet he felt…detached. Separated. As though he was able to succumb to a long, deep sleep. Despite the dark, hateful malice surrounding him. Despite the nagging feeling of distress. Despite the feeling of utter emptiness.

His Other-Self had been unleashed.

And he didn’t want to stop him.

“That brainless, worthless fool has royally messed up by losing him,” his Other-Self hissed with pure hatred. “I’ll never forgive him for that. Try to suppress me for this long was bad enough. Now, everyone will pay. But first; you. You will be the first to die.”

He just wanted to go to sleep.

To sleep and forget.

… … … … …

Samuel always made sure that he had a tight grip on his axe. But, for some inexplicable reason, his current enemies seem hell-bent on stealing it away from him.

Well, it shouldn’t be that much of a surprise. A warrior was only as good as his weapon, after all. And Samuel just lost his.

He grabbed a Lost Soldier by the face and used Mega Fire.

No axe? No matter, he didn’t need it!

He spun on his heel, preparing to use another elemental spell when his gaze fell onto another discarded weapon. A bow…?

He…could use it!

Darting forward, he skidded across the stones to scoop the bow and sachet of arrows off the ground. He hitched the sachet onto his shoulder, quickly slipping one into the nook and pulling back the string.

He planted his foot atop of a nearby sludge and fired off an arrow, taking out a Gunner, stopping them from sniping them from a distance. “Hang in there, Zeroken! We need to keep fighting for Killia’s sake!”

“You got it!”

Their enemies attempting to use the palace walls to their advantage gave Samuel an idea, however; he could make his own barrier with his Mega Ice and then shower arrows down upon the enemies on the other side.

“Zeroken, backline; I have an idea!”

“Got it!”

As Zeroken darted back to join him, Samuel slung his bow over his shoulders and clapped his hands in front of him before throwing his hands out in front of him, palms out. Several pillars of ice shot up out of the ground, creating an icy barrier that momentarily separated them from their enemies.

They also never expected a warrior to know such skills.

Though, it brought on a bit of a headache.

“Wha-?”

Samuel turned around to face Zeroken. “I’ll give you a boost to rain hell fire from above.”

Zeroken dutifully nodded his head and didn’t hesitate for even a second as he allowed Samuel to launch him into the air. He released a wolfish howl as he released a Hellfire Shot. The flames from the attack may weaken the ice wall, so Samuel needed to move quickly for his own attack.

Stepping to the side, Samuel unholstered his bow and hitched in several arrows in preparations for a Zielregen. The added wind element was sure to surprise their enemies. In fact, he dared say that the wind would cause Zeroken’s fire element to flare up, causing more damage.

It also caused damage to the ice wall.

As soon as Zeroken landed from delivering his attacks, Samuel instinctively grabbed him by the back of his collar and pulled him away from the shattering ice.

At a safer distance, he let him go and they promptly fell back into their attack stances. And waited. Yet, no one appeared. And after a quick glance around the battlefield, Samuel couldn’t see anyone else. Nothing.

They appeared to have gotten through the battle. And won.

Samuel took a moment to catch his breath. Whew, that was a lot harder than he had anticipated. Though, that was his fault. He should have expected that the Lost would send their most elite soldiers to protect the magical spear.

“How you doing, Wolf Pup?”

“I’m fine,” Zeroken immediately replied, breathless as well. “Is that…all of them?”

“I can’t see anymore.”

Zeroken sighed with obvious relief, his upper body drooping forward with fatigue. “Man, that was tough.” He soon righted himself as he smiled, revelling in their success. “We did it, though! With just the two of us!”

They did. That should ease some of Killia’s burdens.

Zeroken turned to face him and suddenly pouted, planting his hands on his hips. “You can use a bow, too? How many more skills do you have? If this keeps up, you’re going to make me look lazy.”

Samuel gave a tired laugh. “Sorry, Wolf Pup. I think that’s it. I don’t have anything else hidden up my sleeves.”

Why did he have so many differing skills?

It was because…the seedlings. When they…when they found a host. And after six minutes. After they…devour a host, they gain their host’s skills. When they turned into…into, damn what was it, a…Snap Draingon.

A Snap Draingon was more dangerous than a Seedling.

That was why he needed a range of skills.

If his memories were correct.

“Samuel?”

Samuel shook his head. “Sorry, lost in thought.” Rather, lost in memories.

“Hey, Samuel?”

“Hm?”

“Bro is acting strange.”

Samuel sighed and nodded. “It’s likely war fatigue.”

Zeroken wrinkled his nose in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“He’s tired,” Samuel said as he looked at Zeroken sadly. “Exhausted of being several steps behind Void all the times. Void is depleting the Netherverse of power and energy, while we’re running around desperately trying to destroy magical spears. It’s times like this that feels like we’re fighting a losing battle.”

Zeroken lowered downcast eyes to the ground by his feet. “Yeah…You’re really knowledgeable on this sort of thing, huh?”

He supposed his was. “Endless fighting tends to drain the spirit.”

“Have you done a lot of fighting?”

Samuel’s eyes flickered to the space over Zeroken’s head as fleeting images of darken, rocky corridors and scurrying noises flickered through his mind. “…I believe so.”

Zeroken looked at him curiously before he winced. “Oh right, sorry.”

“It’s fine,” Samuel replied automatically as he plastered a placid smile to his lips. “I forget sometimes, too.” He slapped his shoulder and urged him toward the palace. “Come on, we need to meet up with the others.”

“Sure.” Zeroken walked beside him as he looked up at him with a curious tilt of his head once more. “You and Sis do not get along, huh?”

Samuel bit the inside of his mouth in an attempt to starve off the need to scowl. “No. We have two completely different personalities.”

To put it lightly. She despised him, and the feeling was quickly becoming mutual.

Though, it could also be put down to stress. Everything was stressful. Everything was getting to everyone.

But maybe not the resentment between the two of them…

Zeroken scratched his head. His eyes suddenly widened as he clutched his forehead and he looked around him frantically. “Man, I lost my headband!”

Samuel frowned. He honestly hadn’t noticed. “My axe was also stolen.”

“I can understand why your axe was stolen, but why my headband?”

“You might have just lost it in the scuffle,” Samuel tried to reassure.

But Zeroken wasn’t having it. “No, it was definitely stolen.”

Samuel resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Of course, it was, kiddo.

A powerful wave of unadulterated malice suddenly slammed into Samuel and Zeroken, almost knocking the two of them to their knees. Samuel gasped loudly as he clutched at his chest while Zeroken yelped and darted to bravely hide behind him.

“Wh-what was that?” Zeroken stuttered as he peered out from behind him.

A feeling of unease appeared in the pit of Samuel’s stomach.

It was Killia. He didn’t know how he knew, but it was Killia.

“…We have to hurry.”

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 15) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Sorry for the wait, hope you enjoy reading!

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 15:

Samuel moved toward the main bridge in search of Christo, and as expected, found him in front of the main console, stood before the many charts and atlases.

“Christo? Can-?”

“‘Chu!”

Samuel winced. “Sorry, still sneezing?”

Christo removed his glasses with one hand as he wiped his noses with a white handkerchief with the other. “They’re lessening, thankfully,” he revealed, sounding disgruntled.

“I see.” Samuel still had his own sneezing fits, so he could empathise. “Can I talk to you about something?”

“What is it?”

Samuel leaned against a handrail. “I’ve been thinking about Void Dark. And I’ve been wondering about what kind of energy he’s been gathering. Is it life energy, physical energy, spiritual energy, or magical energy? Or just general energy?”

“Hm.” Christo readjusted his glasses. “I see what you’re getting at. He must have a specific purpose for all the energy that he is gathering. For strength, for intelligence, for defence, for skill, for spite. If we can determine what kind of energy he is gathering, we may be able to understand his motives. Then maybe we can come up with some kind of plan to counter. Of course, that man is truly unpredictable. And malicious.”

Samuel sighed and nodded. He couldn’t get his conversation with Void out of his head. It was so…uncharacteristic of him. Imagine him showing up on a lowly little Netherworld, take Samuel (of all the demons there, him) hostage, simply warp the others out of the way, and then…talk to him.

Was that really him?

It didn’t make sense.

But what bothered him the most was the possibility that Void Dark had started the war for the sake of his sister. His sister, Lieze, who by all counts would be absolutely devastated to learn that she was the cause of such death and destruction.

Misguided brotherly love or pure, unadulterated malice?

Both?

And what if Samuel’s theory was correct? Would the life energy of a Netherworld be the right kind of energy to sustain the life of a single, solitary demon? How much power and energy could one demon possess? How much power could one Overload acquire before it started to breakdown?

Samuel could ask Killia the specifics of what Alma Ice Sculpture was capable of, but he was actually afraid to. He didn’t want to raise the possibility to Killia. He didn’t want to place more confusion and doubt upon him. It’s hard enough being the leader of a rebellion.

He didn’t want to hurt him further with the possibility that Void Dark may be attempting to bring Lieze back from the dead, and she may or may not return no longer as the girl he once knew and…loved.

“We may be wasting our time,” Samuel said. “Still, coming up with a plan is better than nothing, I suppose.”

“That is true.”

Samuel wanted to come up with something. To help Killia with his burden. He was starting to really worry about him. He was taking on so many burdens on his own. He had done so much for everyone, yet he refused to allow others to help him in return.

No one knew of his past like Samuel did. No one else knew of Lieze.

No one knew of Killidia, or how possessive he appeared to be, or how separated he was from Killia. Killia didn’t even know what Samuel knew. He wasn’t sure how to bring it up to him. He was fairly certain that Killia knew that he had…another side to him. After all, there were a few times he had caught Killia talking to himself. Or deep in concentration, struggling with his thoughts.

And those ‘thoughts’ were becoming more and more frequent.

Could “Killidia” be growing stronger because of stress?

“Samuel, Christo; there you are.”

Samuel turned his head to the right and watched as Killia reached them. In his hands were a couple of mugs holding a warm, light brown liquid with a light floral scent. It was a sweet scent, one that was somewhat familiar, though he couldn’t quite pinpoint what kind of flower it could have been.

“Here; this should help with your…stress,” Killia said as he presented the cups toward Samuel and Christo.

Samuel retrieved his cup without a word while Christo tilted his head in curiosity.

“What’s this?” he asked before he retrieved his portion.

“Just a tonic,” Killia answered, somewhat dismissively. “I read it somewhere. It should help.”

That didn’t surprise Samuel one bit. Killia must have stumbled across the tonic’s formula while searching for other recipes.

Samuel lifted the cup to his lips and drew a long sip. He allowed the liquid to rest in his mouth for a moment before he swallowed. Not too bad. A tad sweet, so he couldn’t imagine drinking it too often, but not bad. Definitely one of the better tasting medicines he had ever taken.

As he drank the rest of his tonic, he noticed that Killia seemed to be studying him closely, watching intensely for a response. A bit curious.

“Do you feel better?” he finally asked.

Samuel fell silent as he a little bit of a self-analysis. “I do. Much better. I don’t feel congested anymore.”

“Yes,” Christo said, sounding surprised. “Remarkable.”

“I see.” Killia nodded his head, though it was a movement toward himself, as though he had accepted or recognised something. It was as though he had witnessed something that had just affirmed a theory of his.

Was it about the tonic or…?

“Samuel.”

“Yeah?”

“I’d like to have a word with you.”

Samuel blinked. “Ah, sure.”

He pushed away from the railing and gave Christo a small smile and short nod of his head before he followed Killia away from the main console and down the stairs. He figured he would want to talk to him at their usual place, the walkway over the main bridge. They were the only two that frequented that place.

Instead, Killia led him toward the dormitories. And toward their shared bedroom.

Whatever he wanted to talk with him about, he wanted to do it in private.

“What’s wrong?” Samuel asked as the stepped into their room, shutting the door tight behind them.

Killia walked over to his bed and picked up an opened book. He turned around and presented the book to him. “I want you to have a look at this.”

Arching a questioning eyebrow, Samuel set his empty cup aside and retrieved the book from Killia. He quickly scanned the two pages and noted the word ‘angels’ thrown around a few times.

“I know about Christo being a…you know,” he said as he turned his attention back to Killia. “He’s not very good at hiding.”

Didn’t help that Seraphina kept bringing it up at every opportunity.

He had a reason for hiding. He must have a good reason for being in the Netherverse. Angels weren’t exactly welcome, were they? Couldn’t she understand that?

Killia nodded. “Yeah. But that doesn’t explain why you caught that illness, too.” He pointed to the first paragraph. “An illness only angels can catch.”

Samuel’s breath hitched in his throat as he reread the paragraph again. Only angels could catch such an illness. Tonics and medicines for angels actually made demons ill. Angels could withstand medicines for demons, but demons could not withstand medicines for angels.

By right, since Killia made the tonic from the recipe, if Samuel was a pure demon, he shouldn’t have…

He was a…

Samuel slowly closed the book and backed up to his bed. And sat down shakily. “That is a good question…I guess that means that part of my memories is true.”

“What part?” Killia urged.

Samuel opened his mouth to answer, but the word became lodged in his throat, and he swallowed thickly. “…I don’t want to say it aloud.”

So Killia, every patient and compassionate with him, stepped forward and sat down next to him on the bed. His patience with him brought a prang of guilt to Samuel’s conscience. A part of him wanted to keep his uncertainties to himself as it’s clear that Killia had enough worries of his own.

Yet, he knew that Killia would want to know. He wouldn’t have brought him to their room to speak with him in private if he didn’t know.

He…had to tell him.

So, Samuel leaned toward him and whispered; “I’m a halfling.”

Killia looked confused. “A what?”

“Half demon. Half angel.”

Killia’s eyes widen. “What?”

Samuel simply nodded, his gaze dropping to the floor.

Truly, Killia hadn’t expected that.

Since…Samuel was half demon, that meant he was susceptible to both angel and demon illnesses.

Typical.

Yet, that meant he was able to take medicines from both without side effects, too, if the tonic Killia made for him was any indication. So that was something.

But that wasn’t exactly important right now.

Samuel closed his eyes. “And I think the scars on my back, the circular ones on my shoulder blades were once…my wings.”

“They were…torn from you?” Killia asked carefully.

Samuel nodded his head slowly, solemnly. “When I was younger. As a child. I…don’t remember much. Just a lot of pain. If my memories are correct. Halflings are…abominations, after all.”

Angels and demons weren’t meant to meet, let alone…procreate.

“The rest of your scars?”

Samuel shook his head. “Just minor incidents. Battling. Punishments. Taking punishments for others.”

Killia shifted uncomfortably next to him. Almost as if he was bristling with protectiveness. “Others?”

A part of him had hoped his memories were false. But they seemed to be real. Could…?

“…Do you know anything about Nugatory?”

“Nugatory?” Killia’s brow furrowed in confusion. “I’ve never heard it.”

Samuel sighed and he clutched his forehead. “Never mind. I guess that part is false, then.”

“No, go on.”

“That name, Nugatory, it plays a prominent role in my memories,” Samuel explained, the word Nugatory feeling so foreign on his tongue. It felt so wrong to say it aloud. He wasn’t allowed to say it verbally. But he had to. He wanted to. He had to know. “But…it’s apparently nothing but a myth. A Netherworld that doesn’t exist, according to the history texts of the Netherverse at least.”

“This Nugatory, what is it?”

“The name of my homeworld.” Samuel pulled off his headband in mild frustration. “I think.”

Killia slipped an arm around Samuel’s shoulders. “What’s it like? Describe it to me.”

Samuel sunk against Killia’s side and rested his head on his shoulder. He closed his eyes as fleeting images flickered through his mind. “My memories of the place are shaky. Underground, because above ground is constantly storming. It was hidden away, the entire Netherworld. It was done on purpose, I think. There were…others with me. I remember faces. I know there were others. They were…like me.”

It was…

“…A prison. For Halflings.”

A sharp pain erupted in Samuel’s head and his hand flew up to clutch his forehead. Right over the jagged scar. The one he blamed for his amnesia.

It was…almost if his scar was stopping him from remembering.

“Samuel?”

“Sorry,” he murmured. “My head hurts.”

“You should get some rest.”

“Yeah.” The weight of the last few days was beginning to catch up with him, too. Even so, Samuel couldn’t bring himself to move. “I’m sorry, for unloading all of this unto you.”

Samuel couldn’t even begin to imagine what was going through his head after learning all of that. Especially the whole Halfling thing. It sounded ridiculous, didn’t it? Half demon and half angel. Absolutely ludicrous.

“No, it’s fine,” Killia replied, comforting him. “I wanted to know.”

Hah. It seemed that Killia believed him.

“Thanks, Killia.”

Killia was far too kind to him. Too patient. He could never know of Samuel’s feelings for him.

He didn’t deserve him. Yet, he couldn’t bear to lose him now…

… … … … …

They were becoming quite adept at battling brigades of Lost Soldiers and hunting down spears.

Either that, or the Lost were getting picky with which spears that were willing to send their most proficient soldiers to protect and which ones they were willing to sacrifice. If so, their latest venture appeared to be the latter as they had fought their way through several legions of soldiers and reached the magical spear in less than an hour.

Just one band of Lost Soldiers left to go.

They appeared to be hesitating, however.

And, though it could just be Samuel’s imagination, they appeared to be glancing at him in particular.

“What are you whispering about?” Killia demanded.

An Imp, seemingly the leader of the band, turned to regard them. “Rebel Army, we’ll strike you a deal. We’ll allow you to destroy the spear, if you’ll hand over that white-haired warrior to us.”

“…What?” Killia returned, in a deadpanned voice.

Samuel pointed at himself. “Me?”

“You have yourself a deal,” Seraphina returned, joyfully, and far too eagerly. “He’s all yours.”

Samuel rolled his eyes. She never let an opportunity slipped by, did she? “I appreciate your honesty,” he said as he looked in Seraphina’s direction. “It allows me to be open with my own distain regarding you.”

Seraphina fluttered her eyelashes at him shamelessly. “But why would you do that?”

“No deal,” Killia snapped as he stepped forward, his aura quite menacing. “In fact, I’m going to make sure your inevitable defeat will be all the more painful for daring to utter such a suggestion to me.”

“I’ll help out, too, Bro.”

“I won’t let Killia have all the fun, bwahahaha!”

Usalia smiled in genuine fondness as Zeroken and Red Magnus moved to join Killia in battling the remaining Lost Soldiers. “Killia is as protective as usual, plip.”

Samuel wasn’t going to lie; Killia’s protectiveness was indeed very endearing. It made him all that more attractive. If that was possible.

He would also admit that he did find some enjoyment that it got under Seraphina’s skin, too. Watching her bristle whenever Killia revealed his blatantly protectiveness toward him made him inwardly smile smugly.

Hey, today’s display, she brought it upon herself.

It’ll probably bite him in the ass one day, though. She was becoming more blatant in her distain for him, constantly stealing ‘her’ Sir Killia’s attention. One day she may actually succeed in getting rid of him…

Killia would come for him if that happened. So, it would end poorly for her.

Samuel stayed back with Christo and Usalia, letting Killia vent his irritation while allowing Red Magnus to have his fun and Zeroken to show off his skills. Naturally, it didn’t take the three long to dispense of their enemies, and they soon re-joined them.

“What was that about?” Samuel couldn’t help but ask. “Why would they be after me?”

Killia sighed, revealing that he was still slightly agitated. “I blame that magazine.”

“The Nether Gossip Magazine?” Samuel questioned, his nose wrinkling with distain as he thought about that wretched magazine. “But why would a bunch of Lost Soldiers know about that?”

No one answered him. In fact…

“What’s with the sudden, awkward silence?”

“I’ll volunteer to destroy the spear!” Zeroken suddenly shouted before he stepped in front of Samuel and looked up at him expectantly. “Hey Samuel? If I destroy it in one hit, you’ll have to make me a pork curry without any vegetables.”

Samuel smiled, indulging him. “Alright. But if you fail, with every subsequent hit, I’ll add a vegetable that you have to eat.”

“Ack! I-I’m not going to lose!”

Samuel chuckled. Zeroken had grown a lot, in both power and maturity. He definitely had the power to destroy a magical spear, no problem. But it never hurt to give him an incentive or two.

Sure enough, with a single powerful kick, Zeroken broke the magical spear in half, rendering it useless, and preventing it from stealing the Netherworld’s life energy.

“I told you I could do it!” Zeroken announced with a triumphant smile as he made his way over to him.

“Good job, Wolf Pup,” Samuel readily congratulated. “A deal’s a deal. I’ll make you some pork curry as soon as we get back.”

“I want some curry, too, plip,” Usalia stated as she moved to stand on Samuel’s other side, throwing her hands into the air enthusiastically. “But with lots and lots of carrots. I can eat carrots again!”

That was right, she could. She had manifested the strength to change her curse to work for her rather than to harm and hinder. She was able to eat her beloved carrots again, and not have them accelerate her curse.

“Sure thing, Bunny Princess.” Samuel turned to look over his shoulder at the others. “Since I’m making curry, does anyone else have any requests?”

“I wouldn’t mind a bit of curry,” Christo admitted. “Anything you make is fine.”

Red Magnus promptly smiled widely. “I’m always up for some curry!”

Seraphina pouted and looked away. “I prefer Sir Killia’s curry.”

Killia glanced over in Seraphina’s direction before he looked away sharply. “After today’s little stunt, maybe you could start making your own curry.”

Seraphina’s eyes widen and her face paled. Clearly, an expression of shock and surprise adorned her face. “B-but…”

“I might reconsider. If you apologise to Samuel.”

“Wh-wh-what…?!”

Spluttering and stuttering? Why, how unlike Overlord of Gorgeous, Seraphina!

“You can do it, Seraphina!” Usalia encouraged. “Do it for the curry, plip!”

Seraphina spluttered some more, barely even forming words.

Samuel hid a smile. He was never going to get that apology. And he didn’t want or need it. Watching her squirm was enough. And despite what Killia said, he was definitely kind-hearted, and he would make curry for her.

Eventually.

… … … … …

Killia had lost count how many nights he had awoke with a start, wrenching himself out of his own nightmares before he relived that event. Of when he lost Lieze. Watching as she flung herself before him. As crimson blood floated in the air like precious jewels. As her fragile body slumped to the ground.

As her last words, her last thoughts focused on her violent brother.

Lately, however, Lieze’s image had been replaced with Samuel’s face.

Those nights he would quietly sit up in bed, push aside the blankets, settle his nerves by taking a moment to watch as Samuel slept soundly in the bed across from his, before he would either venture out to retrieve some food. Or return to bed in hopes of getting some much-needed rest.

But tonight…

He was out of bed. Standing up. Standing over…Samuel’s bed. His hand…reaching out for him. Toward his face.

Samuel…

What…was he doing? What was he about to do?

‘He’s vulnerable lying there, isn’t he?’

Killia immediately reeled back. He staggered back a couple of steps, the back of his knees hitting his bed, causing him to fall back onto it. He scrambled back onto it until his back hit the wall next to his bed.

What? What did his Other-Self do?

A low, menacing chuckle. ‘I didn’t do anything.’

Yet.

There was an unspoken promise to his words.

“Don’t you dare hurt Samuel,” Killia hissed under his breath.

‘Hurt him? No. That’s what you’ll do.’

Killia froze. “What?”

‘Your weak and foolish nature is going to get him killed,’ his Other-Self hissed at him. He didn’t taunt him, like he usually did. No, he was angry. ‘You can’t protect anyone. How many times have you almost gotten him killed so far?’

“I…”

‘He’s mine, you know?’

Killia was suddenly up on his feet, bristling protectively. “What?”

‘Hurry up and unleash me. Or are you going to wait until you lose another possession?’

“Samuel isn’t a possession.”

His Other-Self uttered a low growl. ‘I’ll warn you now; if you lose him, I will be unleashed. You won’t have a say in the matter. And when I do, nothing and no one is safe.’

Killia’s gaze flickered over to Samuel’s bed and he swallowed thickly. Lose him? “I won’t let that happened.”

‘You better be extra vigilant.’

His Other-Self mercifully fell silent and Killia was left standing in the middle of the bedroom, his mind reeling. His control was slipping. He wouldn’t be able to keep his Other-Self hidden and under wraps for much longer.

He…needed to keep Samuel safe.

And in order to do that, he might need to keep him away from him.

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 10) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: I hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 10:

Samuel sat on his bed at the Pocket Netherworld, his back against the wall and with his vest on his lap as he attempted to stitch up the tear in the material. Across from him, sat on the floor with his back against his own bed and with a series of already empty plates and bowls next to him was Killia.

Yes, they also shared a room. Something that Seraphina wasn’t exactly pleased about. But with the Rebel Army increasing by the day, the Pocket Netherworld the main hub for new recruits, they needed the extra space. And the two of them didn’t mind sharing.

Tying off his stitch, Samuel arched an eyebrow when Killia added another empty bowl to the stack. “Killia. You ok?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You’ve already had a healthy appetite, but you’ve been eating more than usual lately.”

Killia looked over at the stack and barely suppressed a wince. “…I’ve just been expending a lot more energy lately.”

“Ok.” He wasn’t being a hundred percent honest, but Samuel wasn’t going to press him. “Maybe you should get some rest, too, then.”

They had been doing a lot of fighting lately, and Killia had been issuing a lot of orders along with said battles. It wasn’t easy being the leader to a resistance army, after all. So, if there was anything that Samuel could do that could make life that little bit easier for him…

Samuel slipped off the bed and tossed his vest over his shoulders. “Don’t worry about the dirty dishes; I’ll take them out,” he insisted as he tied off his vest at the collar. “I’m not tired yet.”

Killia looked over at the empty plates again and seemed about ready to protest. Instead, he sighed and nodded his head. “I appreciate it,” he said as he pushed himself to his feet, only to sit himself on the edge of the bed.

Samuel smiled, happy to be of use. Killia wasn’t the one to ask for help, or accept it, all too often. So, Samuel always made sure never to make a big deal out of it whenever Killia did ask for or accepted his assistance.

Besides, it was only natural that the two of them helped each other out.

Bending down to pick up the bowls and plates, Samuel noted that Killia’s gaze seemed to be lingering on his back. “Do my scars bother you?”

“A little,” Killia admitted, which was a little surprising. “They mean that someone has actively harmed you.”

That brought a small smile to Samuel’s lips. So, his gaze wasn’t curiosity or disgust, but protectiveness. And it seemed that thought had been playing on his mind for a while. Likely longer than he was willing to admit.

“You…don’t remember?” Killia asked slowly.

Samuel pressed his lips together tightly and shook his head. “…No. I don’t think so.”

He couldn’t exactly trust his memories, either. Some appeared to be true, like with the elemental attacks and healing spells. But, with Nugatory proving to be nothing more than a myth, he couldn’t trust that being the name of his homeworld.

Balancing the bowls in his arms, he plastered a smile on his lips once more. “But they don’t hurt, either. So, whoever made them are likely a long way away from me now.”

With that, he walked from the bedroom.

Those words were meant to reassure Killia, but they also brought him some relief.

Even if Nugatory wasn’t real, he had terrible and painful memories of some place. A place where he was trapped underground. A place that inflicted scars upon his back. Wherever he came from, he…didn’t want to go back.

He was happier where he was; with Killia and the Rebel Army.

Depositing the dirty dishes in the kitchen, thankful that it wasn’t his turn for kitchen duty, Samuel quickly turned and made his way back to the bedroom. Despite what he said earlier, he was a little tired. Holding back in battle was a lot more draining than going full on in his humble opinion.

At least they could go back to pummelling Lost Soldiers in the future. Hopefully, at least.

“Killia?” He popped his head into the room and noted that only the lamp between the two beds was lit.

Strange. He didn’t remember turning off the main light, but he may have done so unconsciously.

Or Killia flicked it off himself. He appeared to be in bed. He rested on his back on top of the blankets, an arm over his eyes as the other rested on his stomach. One leg was flat against the bed, while the other bent at the knee. His lips were parted, breathing in quietly through his nose and exhaling through his mouth.

He was sound asleep. He was more tired than he let on.

Samuel studied him for a moment before leaned down to grab a blanket, intent of draping it over Killia’s sleeping form.

Only for Killia to suddenly snare his wrist.

Before Samuel could react, he suddenly found himself flat on his back, his arms pulled up over his head and pinned at the wrists by a single hand. A soft gasp escaped his lips as Killia leaned over him, putting pressure on the hand pinning his wrists together as he planted his other hand firmly into the mattress next to his head.

“Wh-what?” Samuel spluttered. “Hey, I didn’t mean to wake you, jeez.”

Talk about sharp reflexes. He must have startled him awake when he reached for the blanket. Killia must still be on high alert from all the battles.

“That weakling can’t keep anyone safe.”

Samuel froze as he stared up at Killia. That voice…? It was deeper, huskier, and notably crueller than the voice he was used to. And those eyes…they were black in colour, nothing like his piercing but kind golden eyes.

They weren’t Killia’s eyes.

Samuel licked his lips nervously. “Who-?”

“Just call me Killidia.”

Killidia? As in Tyrant Overlord Killidia?

“What do you want?”

“Those scars.” Killidia took a hold of Samuel’s chin, forcing him to focus solely on him. “Who gave them to you?”

“I…I don’t know.”

His scars bothered him that much? No, it wasn’t the scars themselves, it was the thought that someone had actually hurt him that bothered Killia the most. Had he grown that…protective of him.

That…was actually quite endearing, he wasn’t going to lie.

“What…would you do if I did know?”

Killidia leaned forward, causing Samuel to unwillingly shiver and turn his head to the side. His movement allowed Killidia to whisper into his ear, his heated breath ghosting against his cheek and the side of his neck. It made him shiver again, withering upon the bedsheets involuntarily.

“Kill them.”

Samuel’s heart skipped a beat.

And his breath left his lungs when Killidia suddenly pressed his body against his. “H-hey!”

But Killidia didn’t move. He seemed to have collapsed limply atop of him. Even the steely grip he had on his wrists had loosened and Samuel quickly pulled back his arms and placed them on Killia’s shoulder’s.

“K-Killia?” he questioned, only to get a soft snore in response.

He was asleep?

Samuel breathed a sigh of relief.

Killia was back. Asleep, but he was back to normal. And Killidia was…wherever he went when Killia was around. Deep within in consciousness?

Carefully, he slipped out from under Killia and rearranged him comfortably on the bed.

“You’re a complex guy, Killia,” he murmured as he draped a blanket over Killia.

… … … … …

Killia had slept relatively well that night. Even his antagonistic Other Self had remained silent within his dreams, which was a pleasant surprise. And a rarity these past few days.

With so many battles, with the Lost growing in number, with Void’s maliciousness knowing no bounds; his Other Self was growing harder and harder to contain. Food was only sustaining him for so long.

And yet, when Samuel was around, he seemed to grow…quiet. Unexpectedly so.

Almost suspiciously so.

Samuel hadn’t been treating him any differently, yet he couldn’t help but feel that something had occurred during the night. Something he wasn’t quite aware off.

Killia paused in the breakfast rush to pull Samuel aside. “Did…something happen last night?”

Samuel regarded him with a curious tilt of the head. “No. Why do you ask?”

There really wasn’t a way that Killia could respond to that. “It’s nothing.”

Samuel shot him a smile as he turned his attention to happily serving up some curry to the hungry masses. “Even if something did happen, you would never hurt me. I know that much.”

He sounded so confident. “Y-yeah.”

“You know, you haven’t asked me about whether my memories have returned or not for a while,” Samuel pointed out suddenly.

Killia shrugged. “I figured that you would tell me on your own whether or not they have. Besides, you seemed content with making new memories here in the present.”

Samuel paused to turn to him, to look at him for a moment, before he smiled. “Yeah, you’re right.”

A sudden snigger caused the two to look away from each other and to look forward, to a pair of faces that were peering at them from over the curry counter. A Clergy and an Archer, a pair of teammates if he wasn’t mistaken.

“And what are you two sniggering at?” Samuel asked, exasperated.

The two sniggered again before they sprung back and motioned toward a table that hosted a large bouquet of flowers. “Ta-da~!”

Samuel looked between the two demons and the flowers, unimpressed, though also wholly confused. “Yes, they’re lovely and all that, but what’s that got to do with me?”

“They’re for you,” the archer sniggered, having far too much fun from the situation.

“Me?” Samuel pointed at himself in disbelief. “You’re kidding?”

“Ooh, Sammie has a secret admirer!” the clergy said in a sing-song voice.

“That doesn’t sound right,” Samuel said adamantly as he threw a hand towel onto the counter and marched over to the flowers, seemingly intent on proving someone wrong. Somehow. “Someone is just messing with me.”

Killia stayed at the counter and looked at the flowers with a growing sense of suspicion. As he stood there, he listened to the whispering gossip of the other Rebels lingering in the communal area.

“Flowers? It must be Killia.”

“What if it isn’t? Someone is trying to move in on his territory.”

“Ooh, a love triangle. How scandalous.”

“Who could it be?”

“Honestly, take your pick. He’s quite famous thanks to Nether Gossip Magazine.”

“True true.”

Killia sighed aloud. He really needed to do something about that magazine. And that ninja. Especially something about that ninja.

“Killia, Samuel, can you come to the main bridge, please?”

With another sigh, Killia set aside the curry he was preparing and motioned for Samuel to follow him. They made their way to the assembly point in silence. There was little doubt that the meeting was about another magical spear. From what they were able to ascertain from Panchos yesterday, Void Dark was able to send several similar spears out into the Netherverse, though he did not know where they had landed or what their true purpose were.

No surprise. No one within any faction of the Lost Army was likely to know the truth behind those spears.

“What’s wrong, Christo?” Killia asked after everyone had been assembled. “Another spear?”

“Not this time,” Christo answered. “It seems we have just received a request for assistance from the overlord of Raging Rapids. But he has one condition.”

A condition? He wasn’t in dire straits then.

Christo folded an arm across his stomach as he pushed his glasses further along the bridge of his nose. “He has specifically asked that Samuel attends.”

For the second time that morning Samuel pointed at himself. “Me?”

“Maybe he knows you, Samuel,” Usalia offered.

“We may have finally found someone from Samuel’s past.”

Samuel frowned and shot a glare in Seraphina’s direction. “You’re awfully eager to get rid of me.”

Seraphina smiled wickedly. “Why, whatever do you mean?”

Killia frowned, unable to hide his suspicion. He also felt uneasy and troubled. “This overlord?”

“Ulric.”

Killia immediately turned his attention back to Samuel, finding the warrior looking positively confused; his brow furrowed and a deep frown on his lips.

“No,” he said after a moment. “That name isn’t remotely familiar to me.”

The name was unfamiliar to Killia, too, so he was unable to say whether they were trustworthy or not. Even if they were, he wasn’t about to let Samuel head in alone. Something about the whole situation did not sit right with him. A trap? Possible. A glaringly obvious one.

Still…

“Very well. We’ll see what this Ulric has to say,” Killia said. “Let’s head out now.”

The others, minus Samuel, nodded their heads in agreement and made their way to the portal. But Killia hung back, as did Samuel. When it was just the two of them left to walk through the portal, Samuel suddenly and skittishly, which was uncharacteristic of him, grabbed him by the elbow.

“Killia?”

“Don’t worry,” Killia immediately told him. “I’m not just going to leave you on a Netherworld without making sure you in fact know them.”

Samuel gazed at him with those big blue eyes of his for a moment before a smile finally made its way to his lips and he finally sighed with relief. “Y-yeah, I knew you wouldn’t. Hearing that does makes me feel better. Seraphina seems intent on getting rid of me.”

It certainly looked that way, but Killia wasn’t about to allow that to happen.

With the others waiting, the two of them quickly made their way through the portal.

Raging Rapids appeared to be a water netherworld made up of sand and wrecked and broken pirate ships. The water currents were treacherous with whirlpools, crashing waves, and a turbulent breeze, so it was little wonder that multiple ships saw that world as a ship graveyard.

It was a surprise that the Lost Army hadn’t already invaded.

Tearing his gaze from the environment, Killia turned his attention to the warrior next to him. “Samuel?”

Samuel shook his head. “Nothing about this netherworld is familiar to me, either.”

Hmm…

Pushing his suspicions aside for the time being, Killia and Samuel walked further along the wrecked ships to where the rest of their companions were gathered. With them was a pirate with green hair and a red coat.

The pirate spun around when Christo indicated toward them and his expression brightened immediately upon laying his eyes upon Samuel. “Ah, it is you, my Ocean Pearl!”

…Ocean pearl?

He seemed to immediately recognise Samuel.

Samuel, on the other hand didn’t have an overwhelmingly positive response. “M-me?” he stuttered as he took a few steps backwards.

“Where have you been, my Ocean Pearl? I’ve been looking for you everywhere!” the pirate that had to be Ulric gushed as he rushed forward, ignoring Samuel’s personal space and lacklustre response as he snatched up Samuel’s hands in his in a vice-like grip.

Samuel continued to try to put some distance between the two of them. “Ah…”

“Are you not happy to see me?”

“N-not really…?”

“You mustn’t be rude, Samuel,” Seraphina suddenly chided. “You must forgive him. He’s suffering from amnesia, you see.”

“Oh, you’ve lost your memories?” Ulric gave an overly dramatic sigh. “Oh, my poor Samuel! Come, we must spend time together. Your memories are sure to return.”

“Yes, a brilliant idea,” Seraphina urged. “If you are to spend time alone, Samuel will sure to remember.”

Killia felt his protective hackles just bristle. “Seraphina,” he said tersely, in a warning tone. She was pushing her luck. It was clear that Samuel had a less than positive response to Ulric. She truly was attempting to get rid of Samuel, for whatever reason.

Because she saw him as a rival?

Ridiculous.

“Are you ok, Samuel?” Usalia asked but received no response.

“Samuel?”

Ulric then did something unexpected; he wrapped an arm around Samuel’s back in an attempt to sweep him toward the interior of a large pirate ship that likely acted as a living-quarters for Ulric and his closest underlings.

“Come now, Samuel. Don’t be shy, my Ocean Pearl.”

A look of utter panic crossed Samuel’s face suddenly and he roughly placed his hands on Ulric’s chest, only to push him back. He jumped back himself, placing more distance between them. It still wasn’t enough distance, however. He scrambled back further, moving to duck behind Killia, placing his hands on his shoulders to hide behind him for protection.

Another act that was quite unlike him.

Either the man was known to him, and not in a positive light. Or he wasn’t known and something in his actions was a trigger for a bad memory, activating a flight or fight response from Samuel.

Either way, Killia wasn’t about to allow the ruse to continue for a moment longer.

“You don’t know him, Samuel?”

Samuel shook his head as he looked at him with those wide blue eyes of his. “H-he’s not even remotely familiar. I think I would remember being creeped out by all those nicknames.”

Killia nodded. “Indeed. That means only one thing-” he turned his head sharply to look directly at Ulric, “-this guy is lying.”

Ulric took a step back and swallowed thickly. “S-Samuel, how can you say such things?”

Samuel peered over Killia’s shoulder. “I don’t know you and I don’t know this Netherworld.”

“Y-you don’t know what you’re saying, Samuel!”

Ulric was only digging himself deeper and deeper. If Samuel hadn’t been hiding behind him, his hands literally on his shoulders, Killia would have walked straight up to Ulric – and punched him in the face.

“We don’t appreciate you taking advantage of our companion’s amnesia. This conversation is over. Unless you wish to engage in battle. You don’t wish for that, do you, Ulric?”

“…B-bro’s aura has turned murderous.”

“Of course. Killia is very protective of Samuel, plip.”

Best leave before Ulric did something…regretful.

Killia spun on his heel. “Let’s go, Samuel.”

“R-right.”

He didn’t know what Ulric wanted with Samuel, wanted to do with him, but he wanted something from him. Whatever schemes he had in mind, Killia wasn’t about to allow him to put into fruition. Not with him around.

Killia was forced to pause in his steps when Seraphina suddenly stepped in his path. Hands on her hips, her eyes narrowed, she looked displeased. “Sir Killia; you and Samuel. You two are just friends, right?”

“What is with this line of questioning?” Killia returned coolly. “Besides that, I also don’t appreciate your efforts in reuniting Samuel with his past without first ensuring those who claim are from his past are in fact sincere.”

Seraphina was surprised into silence and an indignant flush appeared upon her cheeks. She didn’t attempt to refute his words to save face, which in itself was a surprise.

It was safe to say that Killia was a little bit agitated.

… … … … …

Samuel had never been so happy to see the Pocket Netherworld. It was strange. All the battles he had endured. Even after being stranded on an unknown Netherworld with an injured Killia and Lost Soldiers prowling. All it took was on short one-sided conversation with an unfamiliar Overlord that made him appreciate the safety of the Pocket Netherworld.

Ulric just felt so…predatory.

Well, he lied about knowing him. There was that. But the way he looked at him, like he was a piece of meat. A prey he had been waiting for.

At least he knew what to expect from the Lost Army.

“Man, can you believe that?” Samuel bemoaned as he and Killia walked along the tall gangway above the main bridge. “What kind of demon takes advantage of someone else’s amnesia?”

“Indeed,” was all that Killia would say in response.

Killia was still agitated about the whole thing, too. More than Samuel was. While Samuel was creeped out, Killia was furious.

So, perhaps, it wasn’t the Pocket Netherworld that made him feel safe.

Samuel turned around to face Killia and folded his arms behind his back. “Killia. Thank you.”

Killia lifted his head up, to look at him with an expression of restrained surprise on his face.

“I kinda felt pressured to give Ulric a chance,” Samuel continued. “If he said he knew me, then he must. I’m lacking memories, after all. But nothing about him felt familiar. Nothing about him felt…safe. It never really occurred to me that someone would take advantage of my amnesia.”

It truly didn’t. He never saw the point. Or why anyone would want to target him.

“So, I’m glad I have you on my side.”

Killia gave a short nod of his head. “Yeah. I was glad I was there, too. You didn’t know him?”

“No. Not at all.”

He did know that Ulric creeped him out like no one else.

“And, you know, I’m relieved that I didn’t know Ulric. Turns out, I wasn’t ready to leave you. And the Rebel Army. Not yet.”

Samuel couldn’t imagine being confined to one Netherworld while a war was going on around him. Not that he would allow someone to keep him confined to one place, whether he knew them well or not.

…Thinking of getting to know someone.

“Um, Killia. This is kinda off topic.”

“Hm?”

Samuel paused to take in a slow breath. “Who’s Lieze?”

Killia snapped his head up, surprised. “Where did you-?”

“In your sleep,” Samuel interrupted, ensuring to keep his tone light, to sound curious and harmless. “You’ve said that name a couple of times in your sleep, for a while now. They must be someone important to you.”

Killia turned to gaze out at the Netherverse, a haunted, faraway gaze in his eyes. “…She was.”

Oh…

He kinda figured as much, honestly.

“Whether she is still with you or not, she is still important to you. But I understand now. I won’t pry anymore.”

“It’s…fine,” Killia said slowly. “I might tell you more about her. Later.”

Hm. He was fine with that. Plenty of time to talk later. “When you’re ready.”

“Yeah.”

“You hungry?” Samuel asked suddenly, purposely so. “We should make some curry.”

“Yeah, alright.” Killia seemed somewhat appreciative of the abrupt topic change. “I’ll meet you in the kitchen. I just need to…find someone. I need to have a quick word with a certain ninja…”

Samuel quirked his head to the side. Ninja? Cpt Chop Chop?

The thought brought a smile to his lips. “Well, if you’re going to have a ‘chat’, make sure you give him a what-for for me.”

“I plan to.”

The two quickly made their way off of the gangway and temporarily separated. While Samuel would like to know what Killia was going to ‘chat’ with Cpt Chop Chop about, he’d just have to hear all about it sometime later. From Killia or through second-hand gossip. Should be fun, nevertheless.

“Excuse me, Mr Samuel?”

Samuel paused in his steps and looked behind him. A Wrestler dressed in pink and a Professor in blue.

“Hm?” he turned around to face them and tilted his head to regard the two. “You’re a couple of new faces.”

Though, that shouldn’t be a surprise. They were gaining new recruits by the day.

“Ah, yes, we’ve been asked to deliver a message to you,” the Professor revealed.

That was…odd. A message? From who?

Before Samuel could ask her what she meant, the Professor raised a hand toward his face. Where a magic circle suddenly appeared before he could react.

“What are you…?” Samuel’s words trailed off as his eyelids began to droop.

A sleep spell? They used a sleeping spell on him?

His knees buckled beneath him abruptly but a muscular arm around his shoulders prevented him from hitting the floor. His vision blurred, greying out at the corners. He was falling asleep, and there was nothing he could about it.

Why? What were they…?

Killia…

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #nugatory: the secret war #fanfiction #killia #killia x original male character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 40) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Whoooo, second last chapter! Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 40:

The tunnels were narrow and twisting, designed to confuse. And they had no one to lead them. There was one thing they had to guide them: the scars and markings marring the caverns walls. As they increased in damage, the more confident Killia became that they were heading in the right direction.

Rounding a bend in the tunnel, they were greeted by a bright light.

That must be it. That must be the core of Nugatory.

Samuel…

Killia knew that at the centre of Nugatory was a tree. The tree. The Tree of Death. Samuel himself had told him. But he was still taken aback by the sight before him as he and the others rushed into the light.

A tall, spiralling elm tree, branches with thick dark green leafage, and roots twisting deep into the rocky soil. It was similar in appearance to the trees of Demunshroom, but significantly larger and far more menacing. It had a presence all of its own. Darker. Malevolent. Omnipresent and all consuming.

More disturbingly, scattered at the gnarling roots of the tree, were Seedlings. Thousands of them. The golden seeds glisten under the ambient glow of the luminescent mushrooms and crystals.

That was it. That was the Tree of Death. That thing was responsible for all the Seedlings that were infesting the Netherverse.

“Welcome!”

Killia’s eyes widened as a bristle of rage raced through him. That voice. “Arch-Overlord…”

Perched upon one of the misshapen branches sat the very demon that caused untold chaos across the Netherverse, the twisted smirk on his lips stating that he was well aware of the anarchy he had reigned.

“You’ve arrived,” he said. “Although, a little earlier than expected.”

“Where’s Samuel?” Killia demanded.

Arch-Overlord tilted his head to the side, his smirk never faltering. “Straight to the point, I see. But that is a question I don’t want to answer. I have a bit of gloating to do first.”

“Gloating?” Christo repeated. “About the fact that you were behind everything?”

“Of course!”

“Working with someone like Void Dark was quite the feat, I’ll give you that,” Christo returned, though without a hint of admiration. “Especially since he killed everyone else. You must have quite the silver tongue.”

Arch-Overlord sent Christo a rather flirtatious wink. “One of my most defining traits, really. I’m so glad you noticed.”

Christo twitched in response, and Killia felt that he did as well. The man was truly infuriating.

“Weren’t you afraid of Void Dark, plip?” Usalia asked suddenly.

“Void?” Arch-Overlord threw his head back on a mocking laugh. “That pile of faecal matter was hardly a threat to me. I could have killed him whenever I wanted.”

His smirk abruptly turned from sadistic pleasure into that of absolute loathing hatred as he began to rant. “Such a selfish, boorish child. That was all he was. A child. A child who couldn’t accept that his sister wanted to spend time with someone else. A child that didn’t want to listen to the wise words of his father. A child who could not accept responsibility to his own actions. A mere waste of space. Truly sicking that the Netherverse nearly fell to the tantrums of a mere child.”

His anger surprised Killia for a moment. It was clear, however, that he knew quite a lot about Void and his past. Was he aware of everything? What else did he know?

“Yet you joined him on his temper tantrum,” Killia pointed out. “Why? What are you hoping to achieve?”

Arch-Overlord closed his eyes and seemed to take a moment to gather himself. “Project: Wasteland.”

“What?”

That self-serving smirk returned to Arch-Overlord’s lips as he reopened his eyes to stare down at everyone once more. “Lay waste to the three realms. Wipe them clean so that we can start again with a clean slate.”

“B-but why?”

Arch-Overlord stood up so that he could lord over them further. “Why not? Why should I play protector to the realms when they do not even acknowledge my existence?”

Play protector…?

Killia’s eyes widened. “You’re a Halfling?”

Arch-Overlord tsked and looked irritated. “That is one of the kinder ways to put it.”

How long had he been…?

“Void was living proof that the Netherverse and Celestia have no right to exist,” Arch-Overlord continued. “If a mere child like him could bring them to their knees, then anyone with half a brain and plenty of muscle could. Another war is inevitable. It’s only a matter of time.”

There…was no denying that.

“I get your point,” Killia relented. “But what does Samuel have to do with any of this?”

Arch-Overlord threw up his arms in a dramatic and grand gesture. “Samuel will be our new God! He will lay waste to the three realms and then bring birth to new possibilities. That is the potential of a halfling God. A bringer of life and death. Of demonic and angelic powers.”

Was that true?

“But why Samuel?” Why did he have to be the one to suffer?

“He has the potential to be a God.” Somehow, Arch-Overlord’s smirk grew more twisted. “He is the son of an Overlord and a Seraph.”

Christo spluttered. “Y-you’re lying!”

Arch-Overlord shrugged carelessly. “I don’t care whether you believe me or not.”

He…he had to be lying. But it did not matter. None of that mattered.

“There’s a flaw in your plan; though Samuel is a halfling, he’s more angelic than demonic,” Killia exclaimed.

“Yes, that is true,” Arch-Overlord, surprisingly, accepted rather easily. More unnervingly, that infuriating smirk of his barely faltered. “That is why I am glad you all came to visit. By killing you, Samuel will be plunged into true despair. His heart will be shattered.”

He unexpectedly threw a dramatic arm in Killia’s direction, pointing straight at him. “Especially by your death, former Tyrant Overlord Killidia. When you die, when your blood is spilt before the almighty tree, then Demonic God Samuel will be born.”

“Kill me?” Killia would have scoffed if he was not so infuriated at the mere suggestion. “You think too highly of yourself. I won’t let anyone kill me before I save Samuel and destroy that wretched tree.”

“Destroy this tree?” Arch-Overlord wagged a finger at him. “Uh uh. You best be careful. Your beloved Samuel is now the very heart of this magnificent tree.”

“What?” Killia snapped his head up and looked at the tree. Samuel was inside of that thing?!

Wait, the Snap Draingons…

“…That explains it.”

Arch-Overlord tilted his head toward them. “Hm? Explains what?”

“Look at your so-called beloved tree,” Killia stated as he pointed to the tall branches. “It’s starting to wilt. That’s because all across the Netherverse, life energy is being returned. Snap Draingons, once responsible of stealing life, is now restoring it. Samuel has reversed the power of this tree.”

Arch-Overlord straightened his posture abruptly and turned around to gaze up at the tree. He fell silent, unmoving. Simply staring upwards, toward the towering branches. Where the green leafage and spiralling branches looked sickly, the leaves shrivelling, the branches frail and decaying.

Arch-Overlord then started laughing. “Amazing,” he breathed.

Killia was not expecting that reaction. “What?”

“I’ve always suspected that Samuel had potential, but this? This proves it.” He spun around to face them once more, delirious excitement twisting his expression into insanity. “He has the power to be a god! For countless centuries the Tree of Death has birthed Seedlings to steal life and energy. But in just a few hours, Samuel had altered its purpose. Reversed it. Turned it into a Tree of Life. He truly is breathtaking.”

He was insane. Truly insane.

Killia needed to get Samuel and everyone to safety as quickly as possible!

“What will he do when I shatter his beautiful, precious heart by killing you all directly in front of him?” Malicious energy surrounded Arch-Overlord, dissipating mere moments later to reveal him in his Overload Form, one of two demonic black wings and eyes of piercing red. “I can’t wait to find out!”

Fine, time to battle!

“Hrgh, everyone, destroy those Seedlings!” Killia ordered as he summoned his own Overload Form. “Arch-Overlord is mine!”

Killia flared his wings and launched off from the rocky outcropping with the encouragement of his allies at his back, and their unconditional support in his heart.

He could not lose. He would not lose.

He needed Samuel back in his life. And he would do whatever it took to have him back. Even if that meant razing this entire Netherworld and that damn tree to dust!

“Hellfire Shot!” Killia rained hellfire upon Arch-Overlord before he somersaulted mid-air to deliver a heel-drop atop of him, which he blocked by crossing his arms atop of his head. He countered by grabbing Killia by the ankle, turning and hurling him toward a higher branch.

Fortunately, Killia righted himself, turning to plant his feet onto the branch and using it as a sound footing to launch off, to throw himself back at his opponent. Arch-Overlord, however, was already heading directly toward him.

Killia instinctively crossed his arms in front of him protectively, just as Arch-Overlord attempted to use Rising Domination on him.

The attack threw him back several feet, onto another higher branch, but was not wholly successful. He flared his wings to steady himself, his heels dragging across the bark of the branch.

Arch-Overlord was also a fist user?

Right. The guy was a mimic. He copied the moves of others. He likely copied all of Void’s moves. Killia’s only hope was that he could not copy the Final Skill.

First, he needed to wind the bastard through Adviya Holy Water.

The second Arch-Overlord landed on the branch along with him, Killia lurched forward and delivered a brutal kick to his side, in the location of his kidney. That caused him to immediately wince and release a strangled gasp. Enough for Killia to deliver a series of punches and kicks in rapid concession. Each one, he thought of Samuel, each one done in his honour. For the pain and suffering he had endured.

With a final uppercut, Killia sent Arch-Overlord flying backwards.

As he landing on his back and skidding across the sickly, decaying back for several feet, Killia jumped back and readied himself to conduct his final attack.

“Ultimate Demon Technique, Ultimate Skill!”

Arch-Overlord lurched back onto his feet quickly, his face twisted into a scowl, and pitched into the air with an unsteady flailing of his wings. His scowl abruptly moulded into an expression of twisted malice as several magical spears manifested around him.

Magical spears…!

Arch-Overlord’s smirk became deranged. “I hope you’re watching, Samuel!”

Just a few more seconds!

Arch-Overlord’s eyes widened with pure insanity as he thrust out his arm, throwing the spears in Killia’s direction-!

A spiralling branch of the tree suddenly unfurled, directly in front of Killia, causing the magical spears to explode upon contact with it instead of harming him. Preventing any of them from coming close to him.

The tree…had protected him?

Samuel…he was watching!

Killia jumped atop of the branch and used it as a launching point. “Macro!”

Arch-Overlord desperately tried to manifest more magical spears but Killia was already upon him, his fist in his face. “Cosm!”

The brilliant bright light of the final skill was blinding, and Killia new that the battle was over.

When the light faded and his sight returned to normal, Arch-Overlord was gone from in front of him. Instead, after a short look around, he found him in a large crater in the trunk of the tree he loved so much. Battered, bruised, and dazed.

Killia eased himself from his Overload Form as he lowered himself from the sky and onto a branch before the crater that Arch-Overlord resided, to the cheers of his allies.

Arch-Overlord coughed up blood, unmoving in his little hollow. “A little…unexpected. All these years…wasted?”

“Save your breath,” Killia retorted. “I don’t care what tragic backstory you have. You’re standing between me and Samuel. I will kill you to free Samuel. Either get out of my way or die. The choice is yours.”

Arch-Overlord lolled his head to the side to look at him, his expression unreadable. “He means that much to you? He’s a Halfling.”

Killia shook his head. “And I don’t care. To me he’s Samuel. That’s all that matters.”

Arch-Overlord stared at him in silence for the longest moment as Killia’s allies made their way to his side. “…Halflings had only ever had other Halflings care for them. Not even their parents treasured them.”

“Can I ask you something?” Christo requested as he stood by Killia’s side.

“What?”

“Who or what is taking these Halfling children away from their parents and bringing them here?”

Arch-Overlord released a sigh. “There is a being higher up than me that is responsible.”

Christo frowned. “A demon?”

“No.” Arch-Overlord gave a sharp shake of his head. “A Lady Archangel, if I remember correctly.”

“A-an Archangel?” Christo stuttered, paling significantly. “Who?”

“I do not know her name.” He sighed and closed his eyes. “She treats us poorly, the children especially as she sees them as spawns of sin. She watches over all and refuses to have angels and demons meet. It’s blasphemous. Those who dare are to be punished severely.”

Christo’s expression unexpectedly darkened. “I see. I will need to investigate this further…”

That information was important, yes, but not to Killia.

“Where’s Samuel?”

Weakly, Arch-Overlord raised his hand and pointed up toward the tree. “Where the light glows brightest.” A small smile unexpectedly made its way to his lips. “Hah. That light can’t be extinguished, can it?”

“No. I won’t allow it,” Killia immediately replied.

Without hesitation, Killia flared his wings once more and took to the air. He flew along the trunk of the tree, searching for the brightest light amongst the twisting branches and vines. He finally found a small slit in the bark where a bright blue light could be seen. He landed against the trunk and scraped his claws into the bark and forced his way inside, tearing at the vines and wood.

When he reached an opening…

He released a breath he hadn’t realising he had been holding.

There he was…

Tangled in a series of vines in his Overload Form was Samuel. His wings, three white, three black, in their full glory. His white hair, dressed in the clothes he had been when he had left him.

Samuel…

Killia rushed to him and pulled at the vines holding him, tearing at them to free him. One by one, they fell away, until Samuel finally dropped forward and Killia caught him in his arms. One arm around his waist, the other across his shoulders to thread his fingers through his hair to cradle his head against his shoulder. And to nuzzle his cheek against his hair.

Having him in his arms again, was a feeling he could not begin to describe. It just felt so right. All he wanted to hold him close, as close as possible, and never let him go. Never again.

His heart skipped a beat when Samuel stirred against him.

“Killia…?”

“I’m here. Sorry for taking so long.”

Slowly, Samuel lifted his head from Killia’s shoulder and turned his beautiful blue eyes toward him. He gazed up at him, silently studying him, as if unable to truly comprehend what he was seeing. He raised a hand, gently brushing his fingers against Killia’s cheek.

“You’re real,” he murmured, his eyes widening. “I…I wanted…to make a Netherverse where you and Lieze could live in peace. Wh-what are you doing here?”

Killia pulled him closer. Of course, he would try such a thing. “Live in peace? How could I do that without you?”

Samuel’s eyes softened, glistening with unshed tears. “Killia…” He cupped the side of Killia’s face with his hand, closed, his eyes, pushed forward…

And pressed his lips against his.

Killia froze, his eyes widening. Samuel…he was…kissing him?

Yeah, he was. And it did not feel bad, either.

A rumbling of the tree around them prevented Killia from kissing back, however, and he had to pull away. He wrapped his arms tightly around Samuel protectively as Samuel leaned into his chest.

“The tree is reacting,” he said. “We have to get out of here.”

Killia kept his arms firmly around Samuel as he lashed out with his leg, kicking at the opening he used to enter the chamber. He kicked at it until an exit was big enough for the both of them to use at once. With one arm around Samuel’s waist, he slipped the other around his shoulder to rest his hand on his head to protect him before he threw them both out of the opening. He flared out his wings once they were freefalling, and gliding them both to their awaiting allies.

“Samuel!”

Although he wanted nothing more than to keep a hold of Samuel for himself, Killia allowed the others to pull Samuel from his arms, watching as they unabashedly smother him in attention and affection. None more than Usalia, who immediately hugged Samuel around the neck and cried upon his return.

“Where’s Arch-Overlord?” Killia asked.

“He’s succumbed to his injuries,” Christo said simply.

He was dead? It was for the best.

A loud crack echoed through the arena like a cannon fire, causing them all to tense and whip around to face the tree. The Tree of Death…it was moving!

Not only was it moving, it was moving toward them. Spindly, twisting branches and vines were coming alive and snaking their way toward them.

With Usalia still clinging to his neck, Samuel frown grimly. “The Tree of Death has become sentient. It won’t give me up that easily.”

“We have no choice; we have to find a way destroy it,” Killia stated, though not without trepidation.

A thing that big? Not going to be easy.

“Wait,” Samuel stated as he slowly detached Usalia from his arms. “It will only die if I do it.”

“You’re in no condition to do anything,” Christo immediately chided, and Killia had to agree.

Samuel, however, seemed to ignore them. He knelt on the ground and pressed his palm flat against the rocky outcropping they had taken refuge upon. He closed his eyes and drew in a slow breath, only to hold it.

A white magical circle suddenly appeared around him, originating from his hand. His six wings fluttered from a gentle breeze as the light brightened, before fading away. Just as he curled his hand into a fist, and pulled something from the ground.

An arrow?

“This is the last of my strength,” he revealed as he stood up, shakily, upon his feet. “Light power from the energy and souls that the tree itself has stolen.”

“You can’t do it alone,” Killia stated.

Samuel nodded, a tired smile on his lips. “Killia, I need your help. Christo, I need your bow.”

“Of course.”

Killia pressed himself against Samuel’s side; one arm around his waist to help him stand, the other guiding his bow to ensure a strong, steady shot. Their attack, the very heart of the tree. Where Samuel, himself, had been trapped.

“Everyone, get ready,” Samuel commanded as he situated the arrow within the nook of the bow. “This tree is this world’s core. Once it is destroyed, this world will start to crumble.”

“Understood,” Seraphina was the one to reply. “I’ll have the portal to Gorgeous Reborn open and ready. Everyone, out. Sir Killia, it’s up to you and Samuel.”

“We’ll be right behind you,” Killia replied.

“We’ll see you both soon,” Christo said as he, and the others, hurried through the portal.

“This tree, this netherworld has been my whole life. But I'm willing to throw it all away. I will do whatever is necessary to ensure that no one will have to go through that pain. The pain that I endured.” Samuel pulled back the string and arrow as the branches of the Tree of Death began to break and bend, attempting to reach out toward them. “This is my final skill; Purification Supernova. With this, the energy, and lives that this tree has stolen will return to the Netherverse and may one day be reborn.”

“Let’s end this once and for all, Samuel.”

Samuel nodded. “Yes. Let’s put an end to Nugatory.”

He fired the arrow.

As he did, as the arrow flew through the air, Killia abruptly scooped Samuel up into his arms, turned and with his wings as aide, dove through the portal.

He skidded across the smooth tiles of their home back, clutching Samuel close to his chest. “Close the portal!”

“Closing portal, dood!”

As Killia’s allies crowded around them once more, he looked up toward the monitors that held Nugatory’s image. He watched, waiting in anticipation for a possible reaction to Samuel’s attack. Hoping that something, anything, would happen to that blasted Netherworld.

Nothing. Nothing happened.

Until a fissure broke out across the surface of the planet. Then another. Then several more, snaking out across the entirety of the world.

It then collapsed into itself only to explode in brilliant display of blue and white lights, followed by a blistering fireball, sending space dust and debris in all directions.

It worked. Samuel’s final attack worked!

Wait, Samuel?

In his arms, slumped against his chest, Samuel laid motionless. Eyes closed, pale, and breathing softly.

Christo was immediately by Killia’s side, checking on Samuel’s vitals as everyone watched and waited with bated breath. “He’s exhausted, but relatively ok,” he announced to the relief of many. “He just needs rest. But he’ll be ok.”

Rest? Yeah, they could do that. They had all the time in the universe now.

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 39) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 39:

After dropping that bombshell of a revelation upon him, Killia helped Lieze from the walkway, and Lieze left Killia to his thoughts. And his thoughts centred around only one thing;

Was he in love with Samuel?

He was not repulsed or annoyed by the idea of Lieze pointing that out. Not at all. His first instinct was to deny it, and yet he could not bring himself to do so. The words could not slip past his lips. Almost as if his own body would not respond.

Could he really be in love with Samuel, though?

He never truly considered the possibility. He had done his time. He his heart broken once when he thought he lost Lieze. He did not want to have it broken again by losing someone else. So, he tried to keep his distance.

Well, he did not actually do a good job at that, did he?

Samuel was different. He was not just an ally. He was something else. His righthand man. His confidant. His best friend. His…reason to look beyond the war.

Everything he imagined for the future; he imagined Samuel being there with him. He never considered him just…not being there. Never occurred to him. At all. Never seemed possible.

When Arch-Overlord took him away, stole him through that portal, Killia could have sworn his heart stopped beating in his chest. It felt like a bad dream. A terrible nightmare he was still waiting to wake up from. Waiting to open his eyes to find Samuel shaking his shoulder, asking him if he was alright, and telling him he had been mumbling in his sleep.

But he was not dreaming.

Samuel…

He did not know his true feelings for Samuel. Not yet. But it did not matter. He was going to save him. Bring him back. No matter what.

“Killia.”

Killia jumped and spun around to face Christo. “What is it? Have you found Nugatory?”

“No, not yet,” Christo returned, disappointingly. “We are searching every inch of the cosmos, I promise. But I have found something peculiar.”

He did not like the sound of that. “What is it?”

Christo pressed his fingers against the bridge of his glasses. “The Netherworlds that have been infected by Snap Draingons are starting to flourish again.”

“What?”

“Somehow, instead of stealing energy, the Snap Draingons seem to be restoring these Netherworlds in a role reversal,” Christo revealed.

Killia felt breathless. “…Samuel.”

Christo dropped his arm to his side and stared down at the floor, dejected. “He…must have done something.” He unexpectedly drew in a sharp breath and raised his head, his eyes narrow with determination. “I’ll keep searching. I won’t stop until I find Nugatory. No matter what.”

“Take care of yourself, too, Christo,” Killia called out as Christo turned on his heel and stalked away. “Samuel wouldn’t want you to exhaust yourself.”

Christo barely paused in his steps to look over his shoulder at him. “Then he’ll just have to come here and chide me himself.”

That brought a small half smile to Killia’s lips.

It soon disappeared, however, as a feeling of concern washed over him. Snap Draingons suddenly reversing to healing their environments instead of stealing energy? Only one person could do such a thing.

Samuel…he was definitely on Nugatory. There was no doubt now. They needed to find that wretched netherworld. And soon.

How long would Samuel be able to keep the Snap Draingons from stealing energy?

“Killia?”

Usalia’s voice pulled Killia from his thoughts, and he welcomed the distraction. “Hm?”

“About Samuel…”

“Yeah?”

Usalia looked up at him through half-hooded eyes as she wrung her hands together in front of her. “He loves you very much.”

“I know.” So, even Usalia realised before him. “It’s obvious now, isn’t it?”

“Are you ok with that?”

“Yeah, I’m fine with it.” In truth, he was honoured. He must have done something right to have someone like Samuel fall in love with him. He could do a lot better, though. Who? He was not sure, and the thought of Samuel with someone else did make him bristle with protectiveness.

Could he stand seeing Samuel with someone else…?

Usalia reached up to tug at one of her ears. “I miss him a lot, plip.”

“So do I.” More than he could describe. “We’ll find him again, Usalia. I promise.”

No matter what.

“I hope it’s soon.”

“Yeah.” For everyone’s sake, not just his own. But most importantly, for Samuel’s sake.

Killia spent a moment reassuring his companion and ally before they parted ways, both attempting to find something to distract themselves from their thoughts. For Killia, he decided to roam about their home base.

As he wandered, however, he quickly noted that his fellow rebels were not as rowdy as they usually were. The war was over, yet the atmosphere was sombre. Of course, he was not surprised. Everyone was supposed to return. One did not. One who was beloved by the vast majority of the army.

He wondered if they blamed him for what happened to Samuel…

He would not blame them if they did.

He should have…

“Hey, Bro.”

“Zeroken,” Killia instinctively greeted, once more grateful for another distraction. “What are you doing?”

“Nothing,” he replied, uncharacteristically gloomy and sedated. “Just pacing around. Waiting for Christo or the Prinnies to find Nugatory. I’m getting kinda impatient, though.”

“Yeah, me too.”

Though, impatient was not exactly the right word, but it would do for the time being.

Zeroken placed his hands on his hips and looked up at him, his expression serious. “How you doing, Bro?”

That caught Killia by surprise. “Hm?”

“Samuel is important to all of us, but he’s especially important to you,” he pointed out without hesitation. “So, it must be especially hard on you.”

He…was not wrong.

“…I’m trying to keep myself distracted,” he admitted.

Zeroken looked at him with sympathy. “Is it working?”

Killia sighed. “…Not really.” Not when everything around him reminded him of Samuel. What was most noticeable, however, was his absence.

Maybe he should get some training in. Walking around was not doing him a bit of good.

Killia bid Zeroken good luck in his own distraction methods before he turned and headed toward the training area. As he drew closer, however, he heard familiar noises of someone already using the training grounds.

“Red Magnus,” Killia said in a form of greeting as he walked down the stairs.

Red Magus paused in his training and looked over his shoulder at him. “Oh, hey Killia.”

“What are you doing?”

“Trying to keep myself busy,” Red Magnus explained simply as he motioned toward the punching bag that had a roughly drawn picture of a face with a brown hair and a swirly grey figure covering half of its face. “And release some of my pent-up frustrations. I’m imagining this punching bag as Arch-Overlord and I’m beating the ever-loving tar out of it.”

“I see.” Clever. Killia was tempted to try. “Is it helping?”

Red Magnus drew in a deep breath through his nose before he leaned forward and bristled. “Nooooo! I want to beat in his face even more now!”

“Not if I get to him first.” If there was anyone who was going to rescue Samuel and punch Arch-Overlord in the face, it was going to be him.

“Heh.” Red Magnus suddenly smirked. “I suppose I’ll let you have the guy this time. Watching you beat the ever-loving crap out of him should be satisfying enough.”

Killia nodded. “I’ll be sure to make it entertaining.”

He looked over at the punching bad and decided not to engage in any training. It would not be satisfying enough. He would leave Red Magnus to his training. He would need to find something else to distract himself with.

After bidding Red Magnus good luck with his training, Killia returned to his wanderings once more.

“Sir Killia, you’re roaming around like a lost prinny.”

That was not far off, actually. “Seraphina. Can I ask you something?”

Seraphina tilted her head in curiosity. “What is it?”

Killia shifted uncomfortably on his feet. “Did you know that Samuel was in love with me?” He decided to be frank, knowing that there was little he could do to tiptoe around the issue. Not anymore.

“Of course,” she immediately replied, with her usual confidence. “Why did you think I announced him as my eternal rival?”

“I see.” No, he did not ‘see’. He was the last person in the Netherverse to ‘see’ apparently.

Seraphina planted her hands on her hips and frowned. “Are you now just realising it?”

Killia sighed and his shoulders drooped forward. “Lieze pointed it out.”

She sighed aloud. “Boys will be boys, I suppose.”

Was…was he that oblivious or did Samuel hide his feelings for him? Or did he purposely not want to see because of the pain he felt after losing Lieze? What would he have done if he had realised sooner?

He wished he had realised sooner…

“Killia!”

Killia jumped and spun around. “What? What is it?”

Christo rushed to him, flustered and animated. “I found an anomaly.”

Another one? Wait… “What do you mean?”

“A Netherworld. Above the Netherverse, but under Celestia, and separate from Earth.”

Killia’s eyes widened and he grabbed Christo by the shoulder, and looked him straight in the eyes. “You mean…?”

Christo nodded. “I believe so.”

“Nugatory…”

Samuel…

“Show me.”

Christo nodded his head again before he turned on his heel and headed toward the main bridge, with Killia hot on his heels. Reaching the main console, the prinnies were in a fluster, and the monitors displayed the same image; a dark and stormy Netherworld, one that was unknown, unmarked on any map.

That had to be it. That had to be Nugatory.

“Christo, you did it.” Killia turned to the man next to him. “Thank you.”

“Of course,” Christo replied, relief evident in his voice. “Samuel is important to me, too.”

Yeah, Samuel was important to a lot of people. He did not truly realise how beloved he was. That was why they needed to rescue him and make him realise just how loved he was.

“Killia, is it true?” Red Magnus asked as he, and the others (including Lieze), rushed onto the main bridge. “Did you guys find Nugatory?”

“We did.”

Zeroken looked at the monitors and winced. “This is Nugatory?”

Usalia’s ears drooped and she cowered. “It’s as uninviting as Samuel said, plip.”

Killia nodded. “Above ground in uninhabitable. That’s why they lived underground.”

Their dimensional gate guardian Prinny waddled up to them and saluted. “We were able to find coordinates inside of this Netherworld, dood.”

Good.

“Alright, everyone ready?” He needn’t ask as everyone had been ready since they began looking for Nugatory. “Then, let’s go.”

“Be careful, everyone,” Lieze said as the portal activated.

Killia turned to her and nodded. “We’ll be back with Samuel, no matter what.”

Lieze returned his determined gaze with a smile. “Good luck. I can’t wait to meet him face to face.”

With that, Killia stepped through the portal, his trusted allies right behind him.

What greeted them as they stepped through the portal was rather unexpected. Luminescent mushrooms and crystals lined the cavern walls, acting as the only source of light. Streams and rivers of glassy clear water cut through the rock and stone, only the dripping of water echoed through the eerie silence.

In one instance it was beautiful, in other it was hauntingly dark.

“Welcome to Nugatory. So glad you could make it.”

Killia instantly spun around into a defensive stance. “You…” he growled when he came face to face with none other than Naraka.

Naraka, however, stared at them dismissively. “I’m not here to fight you. Or to kill you. That will occur elsewhere.”

He sounded confident but blasé at the same time. “What do you mean?”

“By all means, have a look around Nugatory.” Naraka turned around and waved his hand over his shoulder, once against infuriatingly dismissive. “Find your way into the inner most sanctum. The one you’re looking for is there.”

He then teleported away; destination obviously unknown.

At the very least, they were now certain they had reached Nugatory.

“…Let’s be careful, everyone.”

“Let me try my Clairvoyance.” Everyone fell silent as Christo used his ever-useful Overload Skill. His eyes widened a moment later and he turned to face Killia. “Killia, there are children here!”

Killia’s head reared back in surprise. “Children?”

Halflings. Other Halflings. Ronny and Hellekin were not right, after all!

“Samuel isn’t the last after all!” Zeroken said, happily echoing Killia’s thoughts. “He’ll be pleased about that.”

They had better find them, first. Killia did not know if Naraka knew about them. “Where are they?”

“This way.”

Christo turned and led them down a winding and dark tunnel. One littered with scars and tears etched into the stone, indicating that many battles had raged within these walls. Either against Parasitical Seedlings, or visitors who wanted treasures beyond their imaginations, only to fall afoul to the deadly Seedlings.

Eventually, the tunnel widened into a cavity where a large, steel door was situated. The door itself had numerous marks and indentations, proving that it was a barrier of sorts.

Those who resided within Nugatory truly lived within a warzone.

Sparing a moment to glance amongst themselves, Red Magnus stepped forward and grabbed at the frame of the door. The metal resisted, but after a creak and a groan, it gave way and he was able to peel open access for them to enter.

He warped the frame in the process, but that was fine. No one was going to be left behind on Nugatory. Especially none of Samuel’s children.

Beyond the door was obviously the residential zone, with numerous small huts lining the walls, and a fire pit in the centre of the clearing. It was a rather large communal area at that. Perhaps the size of the Pocket Netherworld before it was merged with Gorgeous.

Samuel’s home. To think he had once lived here. For years. Caring for other Halflings, fighting Seedlings and Snap Draingons, and anyone who happened to find their way to Nugatory.

The area, however, was in disarray. It was obvious that no one had resided within these walls for quite some time. Yet, Killia trusted Christo’s Clairvoyance. He had not been wrong yet.

“Hello? Anyone here?” Killia called out. “It’s ok, you can come out!”

Usalia stepped forward to call out as well. “We’re Sammie’s friends! He’s been so worried about you, plip!”

A quiet noise from one of the huts caught their attention. They all turned their attention in the direction of the noise and waited silently. The noise continued when, from one of the windows, a small head popped out. It ducked out of sight a moment later.

Only to reappear at the door.

Three small children. Three boys. Could that truly be all that was left?

Usalia toddled forward a few more steps, and Killia allowed her to do so. She was by far the less threatening of the group. “Come on out. We’re here on Sammie’s behalf, plip.”

The tallest of the three, and the oldest Killia was assuming, looked at her with curiosity. “You know Sammie?”

Killia took a step forward. “Yes. We’re Samuel’s friends. He’s been looking for you.”

The child looked around at them. “Where’s Sammie? He with you?”

“Samuel’s…” Killia hesitated, “in a bit of trouble. We need you to stay with us, ok?”

“Is this where you live?” Usalia asked, purposely changing the subject. “Why don’t you show us around? By the way, I’m Usalia. What’s your name?”

“I’m Jeremy,” the child indicated toward himself, before indicating toward the second tallest and the clearly youngest, whom of which was clutching a torn plushie in his arms. “This is Gavin, and this is Tyler. Tyler can’t talk. And Gavin doesn’t wanna. But I can.”

They were so young…How long have they been alone?

“Ok. Nice to meet you, plip!” Usalia replied, cheerfully.

“Where is everyone else?” Killia asked. “Are you alone?”

Jeremy nodded. “They just left.”

“Left you behind?” Zeroken looked horrified at the notion.

“Hm. Sammie told us if things ever get really scary, that we should hide, so we did,” Jeremy said simply, not truly grasping the severity of his situation.

Zeroken masked his worry with a smile. “Ah, that’s what you did. That was very brave of you.”

As Usalia and Zeroken spoke with the children, Christo had been inspecting their surroundings, and his attention had been drawn to a singular bookcase located outside one of the huts. Its presence outside, out in the open was rather strange. It looked out of place, honestly.

“These books?” Christo murmured.

Jeremy looked over his shoulder before looking back at Christo. “They’re Sammie’s. He wrote them,” he said, immediately knowing which books he was mumbling about.

Christo blinked. “Wrote them?”

Jeremy nodded his head eagerly, almost as though he was proud of the idea. “Yup. I think he said they were the names of those who actually made their way here. They never left, though. Or something.”

“I see…”

Victims. He meant victims of Seedlings. And from the number of books on that bookcase, Samuel had endured a lot of them. He…was exceptionally good at hiding his pain.

They should not waste any more time here.

“Seraphina, Usalia; can you take the kids back to Gorgeous?”

Usalia spun around to face him and immediately began to protest. “B-but I want to help rescue Samuel!”

Killia nodded. “And you will. By rescuing these kids, his kids. Take them back to Lieze. She’ll take care of them. And then come back to us.”

That calmed her down and she nodded her head back in acceptance.

Turning back to the children, Usalia made her way over to them and crouched in front of them. “Ok, I need you to be super brave now. So, follow Big Sister Usalia, ok?”

Jeremy looked uncertain. “You’ll take us to Sammie?”

Usalia nodded. “Yes. But first, you need to meet Big Sister Lieze. I promise that Sammie will be back soon, plip.”

Seraphina had her teleporter prepared. “Ready?”

“Ready, plip.”

Everything those kids would need and more would be found at Gorgeous. They were to be safe there, Lieze would make sure of it. She would absolutely dote on those kids.

Now, it was time to rescue Samuel.

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x samuel #killia x original character

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 38) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 38:

An eerie, all-encompassing silence greeted Samuel as he opened his eyes. He found himself stood in the middle of a strange room, made of wood and spiralling vines, illuminated by an unknown source of light. He looked around at his surroundings slowly, drearily. Uncertain as to how he got here. Or why.

“Where…?”

“Welcome home.”

Unperturbed, Samuel turned around to look behind him. Toward a glowing red orb encased in a diamond configuration of glass and metal. “Who are you?”

“I am Abimael,” a disembodied voice answered, emotionless and sterile. “I am the sentient being of the tree.”

The tree…?

“I’ve been…merged with the Tree of Death?” Funnily, that did not bother Samuel as much as it should have.

“You’ve been brought home,” Abimael simply stated.

Home…

Nugatory.

Samuel turned away from Abimael and studied his surroundings. His home. He paused, his eyes widening when he realised that a whole wall of his home was missing. Opened out into a vast blackness. An inky darkness he had stared out into many, many times before.

“This is the Netherverse,” Samuel murmured as he approached the opening. “It’s beautiful.”

He stepped on the edge of the threshold.

And stepped over it.

With his wings, he fluttered out into the Netherverse, the Netherworlds passing him by as small orbs no bigger than his hand. He looked behind him, seeing only the opening of which he had stepped from. And the red glowing light of Abimael staring out at him.

He turned forward and continued to fly through the silent Netherverse.

It…was colder than he expected.

No, it was not an ordinary kind of cold. It was…loneliness. Isolation. An iciness that touched the soul.

He was surrounded by Netherworlds, but he was alone.

It may be a cold he would grow use to. Hopefully.

Samuel shook his head in an attempt to shake off his shivers and instead turned his attention to the Netherworlds around him. He studied each world with interest, and could not help but feel a small frown tug at his lips.

Snap Draingons were on many of the Netherworlds.

There had to be something he could do about that. He had been merged with the Tree of Death, and the Snap Draingons were still connected to said tree. Maybe…

From the corner of his eye, a Netherworld floated into view. And he recognised it.

Toto Bunny.

Samuel floated toward the quaint little Netherworld and cupped his hands around it carefully. It had lost a lot of life energy during the war, and it…it was slowly losing more. Snap Draingons had infected it as well.

Poor Toto Bunny. Such a peaceful Netherworld did not deserve such travesties.

He would find a way to save it.

Samuel turned away from the peaceful Netherworld in search for others that he knew. He soon came upon the fiery world of Scorching Flame. Though sweltering with a bright life essence, there was no mistaking that it, too, was plague with energy draining Snap Draingons.

The lush Netherworld of Flowerful was, unfortunately, much the same.

No…

Even Sleeping Willows had been infected.

Please, let those he knew and cared for be safe.

A flicker of light from the corner of his eye caused Samuel to turn his head to the side. And drew his attention to a Netherworld that caused his heart to clench in his chest.

“Gorgeous Reborn…”

He floated over to the Netherworld and carefully curled his hands around it. He knew that, of course, those residing inside could not see him. He was just a spirit. An essence within another realm. And he could not see them. No matter how much he wished he could.

Still…

He pressed his forehead against the Netherworld and closed his eyes.

He…could feel their sorrow. They missed him. And that tore him apart inside. But…he had to leave. It was all for their sake. All for them.

He loved them all. So much.

Killia…there was so much he still wanted to talk to him about. He would never truly know how much Samuel loved and adored him. And that was all right. He hoped that he and Lieze lived long, happy lives on Flowerful. Killia deserved peace. He was so strong now. He did not need to struggle anymore. He and Lieze could go anywhere they wished. Do whatever they wanted. They were free. Truly free.

Christo…he wished he could have talked more candidly about Celestia. About his life as an angel. Samuel would have liked to have learnt more about his angelic side. And more about Christo in generally. He was still such a mystery, yet was such a great help. They would not have gotten as far as they have without him. He hoped that, now, he found peace after the war, too. And returned home as the hero that he truly was.

Usalia…such a sweet little sister. Or, maybe, it was daughter. Hah, she was precious nevertheless. And would make a wonderful Overlord of Toto Bunny. A Netherworld for those who wished for peace. She definitely had what it took to protect them. He wished he could see it for himself, to watch her grow up into a fine young woman. He was proud of her, regardless.

Zeroken…he would make a wonderful grand master of the Ultimate Demon Technique; Samuel was sure of it. There was no one better to spread its teaching across the Netherverse. No one more dedicated. He only wished he could see it for himself, to visit his dojo and watch him teach his students. Go from Wolf Pup to Master Wolf Ninja, like he wanted.

Red Magnus…that knucklehead. He was already a fine Overlord. Panchos and the others were in safe hands, as was Scorching Flame. But he hoped he did not bother Killia too much in his quest to become the strongest Overlord. That title came with the flaw of others always searching for a fight, you know. Of course, he knew that. Don’t go picking fights with everyone across the Netherverse now.

Seraphina…Hah, if only they were not busy fighting over Killia, they could have been friends. Or at least acquaintances that gotten along. They had wasted so much time sniping at each other, hadn’t they? Trying to outdo each other when, in reality, neither of them had a chance. Still, she was a lot stronger than he was. Good luck, Seraphina. He wished her all the best. And do take out that infuriating ninja, Cpt Chop Chop. If someone had to, he hoped it was her.

Samuel pulled his forehead away from Gorgeous Reborn to press his lips against the Netherworld that held all the he loved and adored. He would miss everyone.

And he would always watch over them.

Forever.

“The destruction of this Netherverse is one broken heart away.”

Samuel opened his eyes and turned his head to the side. His eyes falling upon the red light of Abimael who had moved next to him. “Mine…?”

“Correct.”

“I see.”

The demonic entity that the Wardens of Nugatory had tried so desperately to unleash. The very one that Arch-Overlord had wanted to control through Lieze?

Arch-Overlord separated him from those he cared about in hopes of crushing his heart, hadn’t he?

“Then, this truly is for the best.”

The light within Abimael flickered, as if responding in confusion.

Samuel unfurled himself from around Gorgeous reborn and floated toward Abimael. “It’s a shame that I am immune to your head games. I’ve endured them my whole life. I now know what is true and what is false. I’ve endured war and seen suffering, but I have also seen the good in others. I met a wonderful man; he taught me what it truly means to have a heart.”

The red light within Abimael darkened, responding in anger. “Demons, at their core, are evil. Even if you manage to defeat me. Even if you manage to destroy this tree and sacrifice yourself in the process, there will be another. All it will take is one Seedling. One Snap Draingon. One war. And it will start all over again.”

“We’ll see.”

If there was another war, then there would be another Rebel Army. He had faith there would be.

The Tree of Death had taken energy for countless centuries. And the war had stolen yet more. But no more. It was time to give back to the Netherverse. It was time for healing.

“This Netherworld isn’t perfect, but it’s the only one we’ve got and it’s the home of so many that I love and adore, so I will do whatever I can to protect it! For their sake!”

The red light within the diamond configuration flared. “What are you-?”

“Overload Skill: Divine Intervention!”

… … … … …

Killia stood upon the walkway above the main bridge. Alone. Staring out into the Netherverse. For some reason, he could have sworn he felt Samuel’s presence close by. As if he…was watching over them somehow.

He kept expecting to see Samuel walk along that walkway and join him. Sitting by his side. Smiling at him. Talking with him. Like he had done so many times before.

It was still so hard for him to fathom not having Samuel close by, by his side. Even now, he had to remind himself that he could not just go and ask Samuel for advice. Find him for reassurance.

No matter how much he wished he was there with them. He should be there with them.

Arch-Overlord…

If he hurt Samuel…

Killia was abruptly pulled from his musings by a series of odd sounds. He glanced over his shoulder in time to witness an equally perplexing sight; from the steps that led to the walkway, he watched as Zeroken appeared, carrying Lieze in his arms. Once he landed on the corner platform, he placed Lieze upon her feet.

“There you go.”

“Thank you so much! That was kinda fun.”

“I’ll leave Bro to you now. We’re counting on you.”

“You can count on me!”

Zeroken nodded his head before he turned on his heel and casually dropped off the platform and back down onto the steps, and out of sight. Lieze idly brushed down her skirt before she turned around to face him, immediately catching his gaze.

“Killia.”

Needless to say, Killia was surprised. “Lieze, what are you doing here? You should be resting.”

“I’m fine now,” Lieze insisted as she walked straight up to him. “I want you to talk to me about Samuel. He must have been quite the man to have caught your heart.”

The corner of Killia’s twitched into a half smile. “…Heh.”

Lieze tilted her head to the side. “Hm?”

“He asked me about you, you know?” Killia revealed. “He wanted to know about the one who gave me a heart.”

Innocent curiosity. They were so much alike, but truly two different souls.

Killia turned and sat down on the edge of the platform, his gaze out at the Netherverse. “…I don’t know where to start.”

Lieze sat down next to him, her legs curled up beneath her. “Start from the beginning. How did the two of you meet? I want to know everything.”

So, he did. He started from the very beginning.

From their very first meeting on Blood Parch, with Samuel suffering from a head wound and amnesia. He spoke of something about Samuel’s innocence that drew him to him, that made him allow him to tag along with him until his memories return. It was just a temporary thing, at the beginning.

Until they formed the Rebel Army. And Samuel became his righthand man. His most trusted and treasured confidant.

Throughout it all, he was there. Through each battle, through each Netherworld, through each new recruit; he was there. Fighting by his side. His presence being a comfort, his words bringing reassurance.

From his trouble with Killidia, to the resurgence of Seedlings; everything that Samuel did was for the sake of others. Even if it put his own life on the line.

Killia found himself talking candidly about all the times he had helped Samuel in return. About that stupid Ulric and how satisfying it felt to use Rising Domination on him. Of course, he lamented about that blasted Nether Gossip Magazine. He still wanted to wring that damn ninja’s neck.

And he still might, just to relieve some of his frustrations.

Killia’s ramblings were interrupted when he heard Lieze giggle next to him. “What?”

“You’ve changed, Killia,” she pointed out, rather happily at that.

Yeah, he had. It was Lieze who initiated that change, but it was Samuel and his allies that sustained that change. For the better.

“You know, I wanted you and Samuel to meet,” Killia admitted. “You would have gotten along so well.”

“And we still will,” Lieze was quick to add, stubbornly. “I look forward to finally meeting him.”

“Yeah.” Right. He had to remain positive. He could not give up on Samuel so easily.

“I remember his voice.”

Killia turned to look at Lieze. “What?”

“His voice,” Lieze reiterated. “When I was…He has a very kind voice.”

“He always knew the right things to say.” Always. Whenever Killia needed reassurance, Samuel was there, with the exact words he needed to hear.

Lieze gazed at him thoughtfully for a moment. “Killia, you do realise something about Samuel, don’t you?”

“What?”

“That he was obviously in love with you?”

Killia spluttered. “Wh-what?”

Lieze crinkled her nose as she pouted at him in sheer disapproval. “Honestly, Killia,” she tisked as she reached up and pinched his cheek. “And I suppose you don’t realise you’re in love with him, too?”

“Th-that’s…”

Killia stilled. He wanted to say that was not possible. That Samuel was his righthand man. His confidant. He cared for him, yes. But he was not in love with him.

And yet…

“I won’t push you, Killia,” Lieze said as she caught onto his inner confusion. “But I want you to think about it. You’ll do that, won’t you?”

“…I’ll try.”

Honestly, after that comment, that was likely all he would be able to think about.

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 37) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 37:

Hidden behind Void’s throne was a long staircase. With Arch-Overlord having disappeared through a portal, Samuel and Killia wasted no time using their wings to race along the narrow passageway. The stairway was dark, but a light at the end indicated that there was a room waiting for them.

When they reached the room, they broke out of the stairway, skidding across the floor in a battle stance, ready to face Arch-Overlord in battle.

Yet, he was not immediately visible. Which unnerved Samuel greatly.

“Arch-Overlord?” Samuel called out cautiously. Yet, he could not sense him, either, and he turned to Killia confused. “He’s not here.”

Killia eased himself out of his battle-ready stance as the two of them looked around at their new surroundings.

In the centre of the room was a young woman with long blonde hair lying upon an altar surrounded by four magical objects, likely the very things used to store and disperse the energy that had been gathered to ensure Alma Ice Sculpture’s successful use.

“Lieze…” Killia murmured as he immediately headed toward the altar.

Samuel followed closely behind as he had some healing experience that may be able to help. With Killia kneeling by Lieze’s left, Samuel moved to her right. He gently placed a hand against her forehead, only to immediately pull it back in surprise.

She was…alive?

She was already alive?

Alma Ice Sculpture had already been removed?

How?

Samuel reached across Lieze to grab Killia by the shoulder. “Killia, she’s alive, but sleeping. Quickly, we need to awaken Lieze before Arch-Overlord is able to complete whatever he has planned.”

Killia’s eyes widen in shock. He, suddenly, grasped Samuel’s wrist with his hand and looked at him, his expression torn. Almost pained. “Samuel…”

Samuel blinked. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s just…” he seemed to struggle with something internally. “What about you?”

“M-me?” Samuel had not the faintest idea why Killia was suddenly focusing on him. And he did not want him to. Not now. It was far, far too painful for him to even start thinking about himself now. “This isn’t about me, Killia. Never has been and never will be. I’m happy for you, Killia. Leize is still alive. You have a second chance. And…I get to meet this special person of yours. As long as you’re happy, then I’ll…that’s all that matters, right?”

That was all that matters.

Yet, Killia still looked…pained. Torn.

Why was he looking at him like that? Was that guilt in his gaze? Why?

“Hey.” Samuel moved his hand from Killia’s shoulder, curled his fingers into a fist and pressed his knuckles against his chest. Something he had done numerous times before. “You have the right to choose who your heart wants. And there is nothing wrong with that.”

Samuel had said before that Killia was under no obligation to return someone else’s feelings just because they had feelings for him. That went for Samuel, too. Even though he was likely unaware of his true feelings for him.

“This isn’t the time for hesitation. Lieze needs you. More than ever. No matter what happens, I’m still your righthand man.” Samuel pressed his knuckles a little bit firmer against Killia’s chest. “Through better or worse. Remember that.”

His last bit of reassurance. After this, Killia would not need him anymore. Lieze would be the one to give him all the reassurance and comfort he needed.

Killia squeezed his wrist as he nodded, a small smile on his lips. “Right. Thank you, Samuel. For everything.”

Samuel managed to return the smile. “Of course.” He pulled his hand back and stood up. “Now, wake up your precious person. It’s time you reap your rewards for all your hard work.”

He turned and walked off the altar, to give Killia the peace needed to gently awaken Lieze from her slumber. And to stop the others from charging in and making a racket. He hoped they did, though. They would prove to be an excellent distraction.

With a soft sigh, Samuel stepped off the altar and relaxed his Overload Form. Just as he did, their companions rushed into the room. He held up his hands to both calm them down and quieten them. He quickly explained to them what had occurred.

Although surprised by the recent turn of events, they were relieved nonetheless. And turned to give Killia their encouragement, one by one.

Usalia tugged at Samuel arm and looked up at him, her eyes brimming with concern. “Are you ok?”

“Y-yeah, of course,” Samuel automatically replied.

Usalia did not believe him. She did not say anything, though, simply wrapped her arms around his and rested her cheek against his bicep in an attempt to comfort him.

And he appreciated it. He also hoped she would not view Lieze as someone who…broke up her parents.

After a moment of gently prompting from Killia, Lieze finally stirred. She uttered a few sounds of confusion, her head lolling to the side as she looked quizzically at her surroundings. She soon settled her gaze upon the man kneeling patiently by her side.

“K-Killia? Where am I? What happened?” she asked as she slowly sat up.

Killia was unable to contain himself. When Lieze was sat up straight, he hugged her suddenly, startling her greatly, prompting the young woman to blush darkly and to utter out a noise of sheer embarrassment.

“K-Killia-?”

Samuel had to smile. Of course, Killia would hug Lieze so tightly. He had thought he lost her forever. His precious person. There was no reason to react so negatively.

Seraphina, on the other hand, reacted with a bristling jealous anger.

He was happy for Killia. Truly. But his heart still hurt, for some reason.

“Get away from my sister!”

That…that was Void’s voice!

A dark, powerful force suddenly enveloped Lieze and flung Killia back, off the altar. He landed on the ground in a crouched position, several feet away. On the altar, a dark mist curled around Lieze, so violent that she withered and contorted in pain, her hands desperately attempting to tug at the coils of malice.

The mist grew in intensity, lifting her up off the altar and stealing her from view. The malicious mist became dense, a black hole of pain and suffering. Only to disperse in a burst of energy to reveal an entity so different to the young woman they once knew.

White hair, dark eyes, and red coils furling around her like weapons.

“No one will disturb us anymore! Let’s destroy all the Netherworlds and create a world just for us!”

She had turned into an ultimate weapon.

“My malice won’t be subdued!”

That was what Arch-Overlord meant when he said he would take Void’s malice and give it to Lieze. He wanted to turn Lieze into a malicious, demonic entity to destroy the Netherverse.

Just like what he and the Wardens wanted to do to Samuel.

“K-Killia…” Lieze whispered, her voice pained. “Please…kill me…”

She was still conscious.

All that pain and suffering. She felt it all. Just like Arch-Overlord said.

Damn it, he should have known that Arch-Overlord was not done with them yet!

“Lieze!” Killia called out in alarm.

Samuel darted forward, pushed himself in front of Killia, and framed his face with his hands to force him to look him straight in the eyes. “Killia, listen. I have enough energy left to help Lieze. If I focus my intention on protecting Lieze’s body and soul, then you and the others will be able to use your attacks to weaken the physical manifestation controlling her. Once that malice has been weakened, you can use your Ultimate Skill to remove the malice completely.”

“Will that work?” Killia asked, desperately.

Samuel nodded his head. “Yes, but I only have enough energy to focus on Lieze.” He pulled back his hands to look over Killia’s shoulder toward everyone else apologetically. “You’ll…just have to endure her attacks for now.”

“I’ll concentrate on healing,” Christo immediately volunteered. “Everyone else will attack.”

Ok, one more time. Samuel stepped back from Killia and summoned his Overload Form once more. He ignored the way his head and body ached in protest and took to the air once more.

However, this battle was different. He was not to extend his power to his companions. He had to concentrate on Lieze. It would be difficult to ignore his innate need to look after everyone and concentrate on just a single soul. But he had to.

For Killia’s sake.

Samuel looked over at Killia. “Believe in me, Killia.”

Killia immediately returned his gaze and nodded. “I do.”

Samuel flared his wings and flew higher into their air, prepared to avoid the battlefield and any attacks. Everything else was left to his companions. He just needed to stay out of the way.

Focusing his intention on Lieze, Samuel was also able to sense all the malice that afflicted her. All of Void’s negative feelings; His hatred, his arrogance, his jealousy, his…loneliness. There were other emotions from all the victims that Void had taken, but due to Lieze’s connection to her twin brother, that was all she could focus on.

And her guilt that connected her to him.

Lieze blamed herself. Of course, she did. The gentle soul that she was. She never knew her brother’s loneliness. She should have known, in her mind. Never mind the fact that he hid it behind arrogance and anger.

She had Void’s attacks but more. The negative manifestations of all the energies he had stolen, all the lives he had taken to sustain her life.

And she was crying through each attack, and none those attacks she could control herself. Each attack was simply a manifestation of negativity. Of Void’s negativity. Yet, she did not respond to any attack that she received.

Samuel felt a kinship with her. She was someone who was willing to give up her life as to not hurt someone she knew and cared for. He was the same.

Maybe…

Samuel drew in a deep breath and extended his energy to his comrades once more.

Killia immediately noticed. “Samuel!”

“I can do both!”

He had to.

Killia could not lose Lieze again.

Samuel was not going to let it happen. He was not going to let him lose anyone again.

Lieze was sobbing. Clutching her head and weeping. Mumbling her words. Begging for someone to kill her.

Lieze…

Samuel flew forward, toward Lieze, regardless of the danger. He stopped in front of her, and ignoring the startled cries of his comrades, reached out to take one of Lieze’s hands in his.

“Lieze, listen to me,” he said as gently as he could, hoping his voice would penetrate the static of negativity of Void’s voice. “It’s ok. My Overload Skill can turn any physical attack into one of healing. So, don’t worry. You won’t hurt anyone. Just concentrate on freeing your mind, ok? Pool all your power and concentration on your mind and heart. We’ll take care of everything. Everything will be ok.”

Lieze stared at him with wide, red eyes, large tears staining her cheeks.

She then slowly nodded her head.

She understood him.

Samuel released her hand and darted backwards, just as her eyes rolled into the back of her head and Void took over, unleashing a powerful attack. He managed to avoid the attack himself, thankfully, and braced himself to fulfil his role.

He needed to protect everyone, no matter the cost to himself.

Void’s negativity was unleashing attack after attack. And they were powerful. It…was taking all of Samuel’s energy. He was not sure how much longer he could last. Lieze’s presence in her own body was still. She was still there, but she was silent.

She…

Ugh…Samuel could not last much longer.

A sudden spike in positivity in Lieze’s body offered Samuel some hope. Lieze’s presence was dominate once more. Void’s negativity had stilled. She had done it.

“Killia; use your Ultimate Skill!”

“Got it!”

When Samuel felt Killia use Macrocosm, he released a deep breath and the tension of his Overload. He momentarily blacked out as he fell from the sky in a flurry of black and white feathers.

When his mind cleared, he was not sprawled out on the ground in pain like he had expected. Instead, he was held aloft by a pair of arms. But not the arms he had grown accustomed to. That was…disappointing, he would admit. But he chided himself quickly and pushed that thought aside.

“Gotcha, S-Man.”

Samuel lolled his head to the side and managed a smile. “Thanks, Red Magnus…”

He was just grateful he did not hit the floor head first. That would have hurt.

Red Magnus bent forward and placed Samuel on his feet. But his knees immediately buckled beneath him and his collapsed to the floor in an unsophisticated heap.

Prompting none other than Christo to crouch next to him. “Let me look at you.”

“I’m…all right,” Samuel insisted, but was not all that convincing.

“Can you stand?”

Samuel tried to get his legs to push him back to his feet, but they would not listen, and he shook his head pitifully. “…Not right now. I just need to catch my breath. G-go, check on Lieze. I tried my best to keep her safe, but I was weakening at the end there.”

Christo looked between him and Lieze, a small frown on his lips. “You won’t cooperate until I do, will you?”

Samuel gave a tired laugh and nodded his head. In all honesty, though, he just wanted a few moments to himself to gather his thoughts.

Christo sighed and relented. “Fine, but I’ll be right back. Red Magnus, keep surveillance of the area. Arch-Overlord could still be loitering around.”

Right. They still had to deal with him, wherever he was. But at least Lieze was safe.

As Christo pushed to his feet and hurried over to where Killia knelt with Lieze cradled in his arms, Usalia toddled over to Samuel, and stood before him. And looked at him with those same sorrowful eyes she had when she first entered the room with the others, before the whole mess had started.

“Are you ok?” she asked him again, again with that same quiet tone.

Samuel looked up at her, unsure of how to reply. “…I don’t know.” He decided to be honest as it was blatantly clear that she knew of his feelings for Killia, and she knew that he was unwilling to let him know because he had made his own decision. “I just need a moment to myself.”

“Ok,” she nodded before she leaned forward and hugged him around the neck tightly. “We’re still here, ok?”

Samuel sighed and reached up to place a hand against the back of her head, gently stroking the strands of her blonde hair. “I know. I appreciate it, I truly do. I just…need a moment.”

“Ok,” she said again.

After a moment, she pulled away. He gave her a half-hearted smile and she returned it with a small one of her own. She then turned, and toddled her way over to the others that had gathered around Killia and Lieze, giving Killia the support that he needed and deserve.

Samuel gazed at his companions before he turned his gaze away and stared at the floor in front of him, his head hung low.

It was over. Their war was finally over. They could finally begin the restoration of their homeworlds and be at peace. What they all deserve.

Water droplets splashing onto the floor in front of him startled Samuel from his thoughts.

Tears…? Were they his? Was he crying?

Hah…it should not be a surprise.

It was over. Any connection between him and Killia had officially been severed. He had Lieze back in his life. Back in his heart. Killia did not need him anymore.

With the war over, with everyone back to their old lives, Samuel was truly on his own now.

…It was for the best. They did not need to risk their lives dealing with the Seedlings and Snap Draingons. That was his duty. His responsibility. The only thing he had left to live for.

A shadow fell over Samuel suddenly and a cold chill race down his spine. With wide eyes, he slowly raised his head and looked up. Up into the cold eyes and twisted smirk of the one demon left that terrified him.

“Arch-Overlord…”

Samuel released a startled, pained cry when he found himself suddenly gripped in Arch-Overlord’s arms, his right arm twisted painfully behind his back as he was trapped against Arch-Overlord’s chest. He planted his left hand firmly against Arch-Overlord’s chest and tried to push himself away, but he could not move.

He…did not have the energy or strength to fight back.

He could not do anything.

“Ah, Samuel,” Arch-Overlord crooned. “Finally. I’ve been waiting a long time for your return. All of this was for you, you do realise.”

Samuel stilled as he stared at the other demon. “This war…is because of me?”

Arch-Overlord nodded. “That’s right; you were my main goal all along, Samuel.”

“You’re taking me back to Nugatory?”

“That’s right. It’s where you, where we belong, Samuel.”

Nugatory…

Alright. He wanted to go back, anyway.

“Samuel!”

At Killia’s voice, Arch-Overlord frowned and threw out his right hand, throwing out some kind of an attack. Samuel pinched an eye closed and twisted in Arch-Overlord’s arms enough to look behind him. He soon realised that the attack was actually some kind of a barrier as Killia’s own attack was stopped dead it in its tracks, and so was he.

Killia staggered backwards a couple of steps, only to propel himself forward, fist raised to punch desperately at the barrier again. And again.

No…Stop.

He was exhausted. Everyone was. They needed rest. They could not handle another drawn out battle.

“K-Killia, stop,” Samuel pleaded. Despite the pain, the discomfort, and the exhaustion, he managed to smile. “It’s alright. You’ve done enough. I’ve caused you enough trouble. Your war is over. Thank you. For everything. But this is my war now.”

Killia’s eyes widened as he pressed his hands against the barrier and stared at him in disbelief. “What? No! Don’t you dare!”

“Samuel, wait!” Christo slammed his hands against the barrier.

“No, don’t go, Samuel!” Zeroken also began to kick at the barrier.

“Samuel, don’t leave us!” Usalia pleaded.

“What are you talking about, S-Man?!” Red Magnus demanded.

“What are you doing, fight back!” Seraphina ordered, actually wishing for him to stay? How ironic.

Samuel could only smile as Arch-Overlord tightened his grip on his and activated the portal. “Thank you, everyone…”

He…he wished Killia’s devastated expression was not the last thing he saw as Arch-Overlord dragged him through the portal. But at least he knew that Killia and the others were safe.

In the end, that was all that mattered.

… … … … …

Though they had returned to Gorgeous Reborn, and Lieze laid in the hospital bed safe and sound, Killia continued to stare down at his hand in disbelief.

Samuel…

He let him go. He let Arch-Overlord take him away. Without so much as a fight. He should have broken through that barrier. It should have been easy. After everything that Samuel had done for him, all the miracles he had performed, one after the other, a single damn barrier should have been child’s play.

How could he be so weak? How could he let him down like that?

It…could not be over. Not after everything they had been through together.

How could Killia go through with his life without Samuel in it?

“I…I let him down,” Killia muttered, breaking the tense silence that had befallen him and his comrades ever since Samuel was taken from them. “How could I let him go so easily?”

Gone. Likely back to Nugatory. A place he had absolutely no idea the location of.

“Sir Killia…” Seraphina said, pity in her voice.

A scowl suddenly marred her face as she marched right up to him and poked him harshly in the chest. “Enough of your moping. Do you or do not have someone precious to you that needs rescuing? Then find this Nugatory. It doesn’t matter how difficult, how dangerous; if this person is special to you, then you’ll do whatever it takes to find them.”

F-find them? How?

“B-but, not even Samuel knew where Nugatory is,” Killia stuttered.

“So?” Seraphina quickly retorted. “Gorgeous Reborn is equipped with the latest of the state-of-the-art technology. One puny little Netherworld is no match.”

“And with my Clairvoyance, its days are numbered,” Christo quickly added, determination filling every fibre of his being.

Killia fell silent as he looked at his allies. He looked at their faces and remembered once more that he was not alone. He had not been for a long time. They felt as devastated as he was when Samuel was taken from them. For Samuel was important to them, too. They were important to each other.

“You’re right,” Killia said, finally cracking a small smile. “I’m counting on you all. Let’s find this Nugatory and bring Samuel home.”

“Right!”

Killia turned to look out the large windows, out into the vast Netherverse outside. The very one that he and Samuel would gaze out upon during their many talks together. He was out there somewhere. And he would find him, no matter what.

“Samuel. Wait for me.”

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 36) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Getting to the good stuff now :’D

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 36:

It was almost hard to believe, but they were so close to Void Dark’s stronghold that they could feel his overwhelming malice and power.

The journey was not easy by any means, but it still felt suspiciously calm.

Samuel had expected to collide with Naraka at some point during their journey. Maybe he was still healing from his broken arm? Killia had managed to mangle it rather brutally, from what he had seen.

Still, his absence was unexpected.

Perhaps it was just Samuel’s nerves getting the best of him. He tried to maintain a rather calm demeanour, but inwardly his heart was in shambles.

Everyone seemed to have some idea of what they were to do after the war had ended and Void had been defeated. Samuel, on the other hand, was not sure.

No, that was not accurate. He was sure of what to do; he had to continue his personal war against the Seedlings and the Snap Draingons. He had to find a way back to Nugatory, and a way to defeat that Tree of Death. That was his purpose.

It was simple.

And yet, for his heart, it was not.

“Samuel? Can I ask you something?”

Killia’s voice was a welcomed distraction from Samuel’s thoughts. “Hm?”

“The final battle is nearly upon us,” Killia began, “what will you do once this war is over?”

That was the one question Samuel did not want Killia to ask him. “…I don’t know,” was all he could offer as a response, as dismissive as it was. “What about you?”

“I don’t know, either.” Killia’s heart was as confused as Samuel’s, it seemed. He certainly looked as uneasy as he sounded.

“If Lieze is still alive, she’ll need you more than ever.”

“Yeah…”

That was the honest truth and Samuel wasn’t selfish enough to interfere with that.

No matter how much it hurt.

“Samuel…”

Samuel was not sure if it was his imagination or wishful thinking, but Killia almost sounded pained by something. Torn or tormented. Why? Why would he be? The one who had his heart could still be alive. He should be happy, right…?

Just like Samuel was happy for him. Right?

“Killia, listen, I…”

Killia stepped forward, listening intently. “What is it?”

…No.

No, he couldn’t. It was not right. Killia had enough to worry about. He could never know Samuel’s feelings for him. They were better of hidden, the two of them as close comrades and friends. Samuel as Killia’s righthand man.

It was for the best.

Samuel placed a well-practiced smile on his lips. “It’s nothing important.”

Killia did not look convinced, however. “Are you sure?”

“Nothing that can’t wait until after the war when everything’s calmed down,” Samuel insisted, ignoring the ache in his chest. “Then, I’ll tell you everything, I promise.”

“Alright,” Killia relented. “I’ll hold you to that.”

After the war…

Samuel’s personal war against the Seedlings would continue…without Killia’s support. He was needed elsewhere. And he deserved peace and happiness.

That was the best solution.

… … … … …

A dark, malicious energy was the first thing that greeted them as they made their way into Void’s lofty throne room. The demon himself stood before his throne, unaware of them, or simply indifferent as he turned to walk away.

Where he was to venture to next was unknown, so they best announce themselves and begin the final battle once and for all.

“Where are you going, Void?” Killia taunted. “Your opponent is right here.”

Void paused in his steps and released a long-suffering sigh, a true sign of conceit. “I can’t stand having such an important ritual being interrupted by garbage any longer.” He finally turned to face them. “I’ll have to get rid of you first.”

Samuel stayed back as everyone took a turn to step forward one by one to air their grievances. Other than his acquired hatred from enduring the violence of war and from what he learnt from Killia, he had nothing personal against the bastard.

Void regarded everyone with an arrogant dismissiveness, barely registering their words. Surprising none, he could not muster up the energy to pretend to care.

However, as he lazily cast his gaze over them, his eyes lingered as he looked over Samuel. And a flash of recognition flickered across his face. “You…”

Samuel returned his stare silently, curious as to why he would remember a simple peon like him. Especially when his face creased into an expression of irritation.

“Why do you look at me with pity in your eyes?” Void snapped, ignoring everyone else. “You did back on that pitiful Netherworld as well.”

Samuel blinked before he stepped forward. “You remember our conversation? I’m surprised, but I suppose you do. It was the first one you had in a long time, right?”

Void’s frown deepened and he looked childishly frustrated. He did not immediately make a snappy retort, however, and simply stare at him. After a short moment of silence, a conceited smirk made its way to his lips. “…You have an Overload now. About time.”

He must have noticed the new addition of his wings. “Yes, but it’s not yours to take.”

“We’ll see about that.”

Ever protective, Killia immediately stepped in front of Samuel. “I won’t let you anywhere near Samuel, Void.”

The smirk on Void’s lips darkened. “Ah, so you are fond of this one, Killia? Isn’t that a shame? Does he know you don’t have the strength to save anyone?”

“I know that he has the strength to defeat you,” Samuel replied.

Surprisingly, Void’s smirk faltered and he looked annoyed. “…And he’s delusional, too. How quaint.”

“I’ve mastered the Ultimate Demon Technique, Void.”

Void threw his head back on a loud, mocking scoff. “You still believe that useless old man’s fantasy? Lectures about your heart. Nothing about strength at all.”

“And there’s nothing strong about you, either, Void,” Killia sharply retorted. “After Goldion decided that I was to become his heir, you said it was worthless and ran away. You’re just a weak child who ran away from the Ultimate Demon Technique and his father’s grand shadow!”

Void’s lips twisted into a snarl and his left eye twitched. He drew in a sharp breath in through his nose and managed a smirk. “…Alright, I accept your cheap taunt. Today, I will sever the fate that connect us, as well as rid the Netherverse of that wretched Ultimate Demon Technique!”

Void raised his left hand, where a dark purple orb of light manifested and casually threw it to the side. Where a large group of zombie Sages and Dark Knights appeared. It truly was no surprise that Void was able to wield Majorita’s Broken Faith Magia so easily.

“These corpses will be more than enough to deal with your little friends there, Killia,” Void sneered. “This is between you and me. Although, I can’t guarantee they won’t get in the way of my attacks.”

Samuel glanced between the corpses and Void. “Killia?”

Killia looked over his shoulder at him and nodded. “I’m counting on you, Samuel.”

“Right.”

Samuel took a few steps back and closed his eyes. He drew in a deep breath and pooled his energy, releasing it in a flurry. His wings grew in size as his aura extended out to his allies, enveloping them in a protective healing light. One that would not be fully realised until Void attacked.

When Samuel reopened his eyes, he found Void staring at him. Not impressed, no, but staring at him nonetheless.

“So, you have an Overload form,” he said, smirking. “Interesting. Let’s see what you can do.”

Void sprung forward; his intent set on Samuel. Only for Killia to step in front of him once more, arm raised in front of him, and he took Void’s fist to his forearm without flinching, even as the shockwave of the attack passed through him. In fact, a blue light shimmered around his form, indicating a brief moment of healing.

Void’s conceited smirk soon shifted into that of disbelief. “…What?”

“You’ve spent this entire war slaughtering anyone and everyone you wanted,” Killia stated, his voice smooth and calm. “Your first recourse is now and always has been violence. What will you do now, when the option of violence is no longer possible?”

Void sprung backwards, his expression an unreadable mixture of many differing emotion. All of them negative. He soon settled on absolutely rage as he threw his head on a war cry. “Arrrgh! Don’t underestimate me, Killia!”

Samuel quickly flapped his wings and took to the air. He could not engage in any of the fighting; he needed to concentrate on the healing and avoid any of the attacks. He needed to leave the fighting to his comrades, and ultimately leave his protection in their hands, too.

He needed all of his mental willpower. Void’s malice and hatred was unmatched, and it fuelled his power and strength. His hatred, and jealousy, of Killia was absolute.

Void’s control over Broken Faith Magia was far stronger than what Majorita possessed. He was able to summon more corpses with a snap of his fingers, intent of having no one else interfere with his battle with Killia.

He also loved pulling out those magical spears, throwing those in battle whenever possible. Fortunately, those were large enough for large enough for Samuel to see for himself and defy dodge.

With each attack that Void landed and with each healing he unwittingly gave to his bitterest enemy, he grew more and more frustrated.

“Is this your Overload Skill?” he demanded, his focus directed solely on Samuel.

Floating mid-air, Samuel folded his arms behind his back and nodded. “Do you like, Void? I call it Divine Intervention. It’s made especially for violent centric abusers. It turns all attacks into that of healing instead.”

Void’s eyes widen and his mouth dropped open. Samuel didn’t know him well enough, but he looked genuinely surprised. But it did not last long as a smirk soon returned to his lips.

“All the more reason for me to take it.”

Samuel tensed and prepared himself for a game of cat and mouse. He may have also forgot to mentioned that his Overload Skill did not extend to himself, so even it was possible that even if Void did manage to steal it, he would not be able to wield it in the way he wanted.

Well, Samuel hoped so, at least.

Killia immediately stepped in front of Void once more. “I already told you, Void; I won’t let you anywhere near Samuel.”

Void’s expression darkened. “Let’s see how strong that Overload Skill really is!”

Samuel winced and braced himself. While he would do whatever it took to keep Killia and the others safe, dealing with Void’s rage and power was sure to leave him winded and vulnerable.

“Samuel, don’t worry about us, make sure Bro is safe!” Zeroken called out to him.

Easier said than done; Killia was counting on him to keep everyone safe. Void was unpredictable. If he knew that the others were vulnerable, there was nothing stopping him from using several magical spears in their direction.

No, Samuel needed to continue to extend his Overload Skill to everyone.

“What’s wrong, Killia?” Void taunted. “Is that all you’ve got with the Ultimate Demon Technique that you’ve supposedly mastered? My father was a fool. If he acknowledged my talent from the beginning, he wouldn’t have been in such a painful situation.”

“You’re wrong,” Killia retorted. “Goldion acknowledged your talent more than anyone else. He actually wanted you to take over the Ultimate Demon Technique. You were the one who ruined that, Void! This fist has inherited your father’s, the Great Demon Fist, Goldion’s, will! Are you brave enough to stop this fist, Void!?”

Samuel needed to find a way to counter Void hatred and rage.

He needed to…dig deep. Concentrate on Killia. On his…love for him. What he meant to him. Think about how they first met, how Killia saved his life and allowed him to tag along after learning of his head injury and amnesia. How close they had become as they formed the Rebel Army.

Think about all the times Killia had saved him. All the battles they fought side by side. All the times they had spent together making curry. All the conversations they had sat atop of that walkway above the main bridge of their Pocket Netherworld, or in their shared room. All the times Samuel confided in Killia, and Killia confided in him.

The war needed to end. For the sake of the Netherverse, for the sake of his allies, for Killia’s sake.

End the war, Killia. Stop Void’s reign of destruction and save Lieze. And find your peace.

“Ultimate Demon Technique, Ultimate Skill, Macrocosm!!!”

Samuel breathed a sigh of relief as a brilliant bright light filled the arena and he floated gently to the ground.

The battle was over, yet he held his Overload form. Just out of protectiveness.

As the light faded, Void stood in the middle of the battlefield, truly dumbfounded, with eyes wide and unblinking. He staggered back a step, and then another. For a moment, he did not move, did not make a sound.

A half smile suddenly made its presence known on his lips before he suddenly collapsed to his knees.

“I didn’t think I could ever be defeated by you…” he murmured; his attention focused upon Killia. “You’re a completely different from the man who trained under my father.”

Killia stepped forward and nodded. “It’s not just my power. I’ve inherited your father’s heart and will, as well as the belief and dreams of my allies.”

Void scoffed, still in disbelief. His eyes flickered over Killia’s shoulder, colliding with Samuel’s gaze. “You… Your Overload is impressive…I should have gone to greater lengths to obtain it. If I had known.”

Samuel reached across himself to clutch at his right arm. “You would have found a way to grant it to Lieze?”

Void looked mildly surprised.

“We know she’s here, Void,” Samuel said as he moved to stand next to Killia. “We know what you’ve done. And we know you’re working with someone else. I don’t know what name he is going by, but I know who he is. And that’s why I pity you.”

“Heh, you’re no ordinary warrior,” Void muttered. “What else do you know then?”

“I know that he’s has been using you from the very beginning. He doesn’t care about Lieze. If I had known he has been involved, I would have been more forceful in my objections to your plans.”

Although, how forceful was debateable.

A sharp spike of malevolent energy was all the warning they got before a magical spear appeared suddenly, piercing Void’s body from his chest to his torso, pinning him to the floor from behind. His eyes widened as a breathless gasp escaped his throat, only able to stare with narrowed pupils at the spear.

He…he did not do that to him, did he?

Behind him, another figure appeared.

A man. With brown hair that was half shaved, and a grey scar marring half of his face.

Samuel felt breathless.

Arch-Overlord…

He knelt behind Void, one hand on the magical spear, the other under his chin, harshly pulling his head back at a painful angle so that he could he stare up at him with wide eyes, while Arch-Overlord gazed down at him with a twisted smirk on his lips.

“I think it’s time for you to take a rest, don’t you, Void?” Arch-Overlord crooned mockingly, tickling his finger under Void’s chin. “You’ve been working so hard lately.”

“What…?” Samuel murmured as he stumbled backwards. How…? How did he use a magical spear?

“Oh, don’t worry, Voidy-Boy,” Arch-Overlord continued. “I’ll take all your anger, hatred, and malice, and give them to your beloved sister. I’m sure you won’t mind it if she’s the one going across the Netherverse destroying everything in your honour, will you? Oh, she may be conscious the entire time, begging and pleading for someone to stop her. To kill her. A minor side-effect.”

Void trembled under the spear. “You…”

Arch-Overlord’s smirk grew with malice. “Nice working with you, Void.”

He tightened his hand around the spear and twisted it sharply, prompting Void’s body to lurch and to abruptly dissipate into an orb of light. Along with the spear. Arch-Overlord stood upon his feet and held up his hand, oh-so casually waiting for the orb of light to float into his palm. He closed his hand around the light, smothering it as he chuckled.

“V-Void!” Killia stuttered out in alarm.

“About time,” Arch-Overlord muttered, dismissively. “That child really was a brat.”

Samuel swallowed thickly as he stared wide-eyed at the man before him. “Arch-Overlord…”

Arch-Overlord turned his attention toward him and, both surprisingly and unnervingly, smiled warmly at him. As if he had met with an old friend. “Ah, Samuel. Looking beautiful as ever.”

“Wh-what?”

“We were quite fond of you, Samuel,” Arch-Overlord crooned, that mockingly friendly smile dissolving into a wicked smirk once more. “Our little placid, submissive dove.”

Killia immediately placed himself in front of Samuel protectively once more. “You,” he hissed. “How did you get that Overload skill?”

Arch-Overlord arched an eyebrow, less than impressed with Killia’s appearance. “Oh, I don’t steal Overloads, if that is what you’re implying. That’s ungentlemanly. I simply mimic them after witnessing them a few times. And Void just loved to use those magical spears whenever possible.”

That was his Overload Skill?

Samuel shook his head. No, that was not what was important. “What are you planning to do with Lieze? Are you planning to sacrifice her to the Tree of Death?”

Arch-Overlord folded an arm across his chest and idly tapped his cheek. “Maybe. Maybe not.”

“I don’t understand your motives here.”

“As the way it should be.”

Arch-Overlord fell silent abruptly as he blatantly looked Samuel up and down, prompting him to remember that he was still in his Overload Form. He must know what he was capable of. Was that the reason why he had not attacked them?

“Your Overload skill was a surprise Samuel, I must admit. I wasn’t expecting it.”

That made Samuel uneasy. “What were you expecting?”

“Something a little more destructive, you could say.” Arch-Overlord actually sounded honest in his response. “Halflings are half demonic and half angelic, after all. Two clashing forces. Always at odds with one another. You seemed to have found a balance, though. Interesting.”

He was staring at Samuel once more. More specifically, at his black wings. Arch-Overlord, no doubt, wanted him to be a little more demonic. Like the Wardens of Nugatory.

He…was part of their scheme to shatter his heart. He probably orchestrated it.

“No matter.” Arch-Overlord suddenly turned on his heel and waved a dismissive hand over his shoulder. “I have what I need now.”

He then disappeared through a portal. And what he said to Void before he killed him came flooding back.

No…

Samuel lurched forward and grabbed Killia by the shoulder. “Killia, we have to hurry. I don’t know what Arch-Overlord has planned for Lieze, but I know it’s nothing good!”

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #Nugatory: The Secret War #fanfiction #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 35) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope everyone enjoys reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 35:

Void Dark’s castle, Dark Demise, was as impressive as Samuel’s imagined it would be. How the egotistical man had managed to generate such a stronghold, he could only speculate. He had more sway and power over his Lost Soldiers than Samuel could ever imagine.

It was not an easy Netherworld to reach. It really took Gorgeous Reborn barrelling into it for them to make their way onto its outer reaches. If only the Anti-Netherworld Combat canon, or whatever that blast was, worked. But Bloodis, more powerful than before, blocked it.

Incredible. Samuel was not looking forward to facing him in battle again.

Of course, Seraphina stumbled from the ‘force of the impact’ and landed straight into Killia’s chest and arms. That was not an accident.

He would have to give her kudos for that one.

Sadly for her, Samuel did not need to ram a Netherworld into an enemy’s fortress to find his way into Killia’s embrace. So, he would give her that little win. For now.

But because of that certain collision, Gorgeous Reborn was now connected to Dark Demise. Lost Soldiers were able to come and go as freely as they could. They had no choice but to plough forward and defeat every enemy they came across and end the war, one way or another.

That was not what was troubling Samuel the most, however.

Immediately upon stepping foot within the Outer limits of Dark Demise, they were attacked by unfathomably loyal Lost Soldiers. Yet, they were not ordinary soldiers. They were elites, yet they had also been enhanced.

But not by Seedlings.

No, it was from Majorita’s doing. Broken Faith Magia.

Yet, she, too, had given time limits. Not exact time limits like that of Seedlings. And they did not have the agonising deaths where Snap Draingons sprouted from their bodies. Their bodies simply overheated and they disappeared into the ether.

Different method, same disregard for life.

That child was vile. Truly vile.

That deeply troubled Samuel. Had she taken inspiration from the Seedlings? Were they just experiments in her eyes? Did she take delight in watching victims succumb to them? How did she know about them?

Samuel was not a murderous brute by any stretch, but he was greatly against Usalia’s choice to leave Majorita alive so that she could repent for her sins. He did not believe she had it in her to seek redemption. Not without constant supervision.

He could only hope that Usalia’s choice did not come back to haunt her. For if Majorita did not do an about face and change her ways, her future victims would also be blood on Usalia’s hands…

The only thing they had going for them for the time being was that their enemies did not have the same extreme power that Seedlings were able to grant their victims. Samuel’s Overload Skill was not necessary. They were strong enough to defeat them under their own combined strength.

Still, if they continued, they may be exhausted by the time they reached Void.

“Killia, I sense that Bloodis is up ahead,” Christo announced.

Killia simply nodded his head. “Yeah, his powerful spirit is undeniable.”

Samuel, on the other hand, could not help but wince. “Killia, want for me to-?”

“No, save your strength,” Killia quickly answered. “I need your support for when we face Void Dark in battle. I’m relying on you to ensure everyone’s safety. I…don’t want Void to hurt anyone again.”

Killia’s power had grown significantly that he could very well protect everyone on his own, but it was bolstering for Samuel’s own self-confidence that he needed him there for reassurance.

“I understand. I’ll keep everyone safe.” Samuel smiled and clasped a hand on Killia’s shoulder. “Besides, imagine the look on Void’s face when he realises he can’t hurt anyone.”

Killia gave a small, half smile. “It’ll be worth the wait.”

… … … … …

Bloodis…

Bloodis was Goldion all along. Ever since the first time Killia and Zeroken used Adviya Holy Water, all the way back on Dark Testament. All through their battles. Throughout every magical spear. Through everything Void Dark had done.

Everything he had done was in order to help them grow stronger? To teach Killia the Ultimate Demon Technique, Ultimate Skill, Macrocosm?

He…had endured many hardships himself. Forced into a role, by his own murderous and violent son. As Demon General Bloodis, he had devastated many a Netherworld. But as Goldion disguised as Bloodis, he had tried to help them from the shadows the best he could without raising suspicion. A delicate balancing act, one forcing him to watch helplessly as his own son slaughtered millions.

How could he…?

Samuel stood back with the others as Killia and Zeroken spoke to their old master, not entirely sure what to think. He was not close to the man; he never knew him or his legacy. He only knew him as Bloodis, which was truly a shame.

He should not have to pay the ultimate price for the actions of his unworthy son.

It was not fair.

Samuel did not want to insert himself into the conversation, as both Killia and Zeroken looked pained, devastated to see their former master is such a state. To know that he was to be lost to them. For good. And it was something that he, himself, had planned. His time was running out.

But…he had to know something.

Samuel stepped forward cautiously, reluctantly. “Excuse me, Goldion? I need to ask you a question and I need you to answer it honestly, please. Is there a man, a demon with brown hair, half of his head shaved, and with a grey scar covering half of his face, working with Void Dark from the shadows?”

Even with his heavy, fortified armour, Samuel knew that Goldion had turned his head to stare at him, contemplating whether or not to answer his question.

“Please, I need to know,” he implored.

“…There is.”

Samuel drew in a sharp breath and his hands curled into fists at his sides. Damn it!

“Samuel?” Killia called to him, questioningly with concern.

“That is the Arch-Overlord of Nugatory,” Samuel said simply. “I’m afraid Void is the one who’s been used and manipulated here.”

“What do you mean?” Goldion asked.

But Samuel shook his head. It would take too long to explain and Goldion did not have much time left. “Has this demon been gifting your Lost Soldiers objects that look like seeds, but gold in colour with the symbol of a sun with a water droplet etched onto the surfaced?”

Goldion paused before he nodded. “…That is correct.”

Samuel sighed and immediately raised his hands to rub his temples. “That is how Seedlings have been distributed throughout the Netherverse. The Arch-Overlord is behind everything.”

“But why?” Christo was the one to ask.

Samuel shook his head again, this time answering in the negative. “I don’t know.”

He paused suddenly as a realisation struck him. He dropped his hands from his temples and turned around to look at Christo. “Wait…according to legend, the Tree of Death is the misshapen form of a prison, one that holds the manifestation of destruction. Could Arch-Overlord believe in that legend? If so…he’s after the power and energy that Void has been gathering from the Netherverse. Then that means…”

Lieze was…

Samuel spun around to face the man in the dark armour once more. “Goldion, one more thing; Lieze…she’s here, isn’t she?”

Goldion fell silent.

Samuel could not help but allowed some of his frustration to show. “Please, I don’t have time for your silent treatment. If she’s here, then her very existence is in danger.”

“…She is here.”

Killia’s eyes widened. “What?” he uttered out in a short, breathless gasp. “Wh-what do you mean? How-?”

Samuel, himself, felt as though someone had punched him in the chest, but he gritted his teeth and hoped it did not show.

So…he was right.

He knew it was a possibility. Void himself said the war was for his sister. He told him himself.

He knew that there was a chance that Lieze was alive.

So, why did his heart clench and all but stop when Goldion revealed that Lieze within Void’s castle?

It was because he knew that she still had full reign over Killia’s heart, wasn’t it?

Samuel violently shook his head sharply and looked over his shoulder. No, it was not about his feelings. It never was. Now was not the time to think about himself.

“Void used Alma Ice Sculpture,” he said as he looked over at Christo.

Christo returned his gaze and nodded his head grimly. “And the war is an excuse to gather energy needed to ensure Alma Ice Sculpture’s continuous use. Yet, why the sudden uptick in power? If I understand correctly, Lieze was injured long before the war. Does prolong use of Alma Ice Sculpture require more and more energy?”

“The main question is, though; how long does he plan on keeping her alive through this method? How does he plan on bringing her back to life?”

Christo’s frown deepened. “…Broken Faith Magia.”

Samuel’s eyes widened. “Of course. That’s the reason why he’s kept Majorita around, despite her continuous loses to us. He must have been waiting for her to evolve her Overload Skill. To either steal or to sacrifice her in some method. Then…we shouldn’t have left her…”

They should not have left her alive. She was at Void’s mercy now. If she was not already dead, her Overload stolen. But if they had not, Lieze wouldn’t…

Samuel shook his head. “Sorry, Killia, Zeroken,” he said sympathetically. “I didn’t mean to interrupt your time with your master.”

He stepped back, away from the group and Christo promptly joined him. The two huddled together as they continued their discussion in whispers in hushed tones.

“What do you think?” Christo asked him.

“Nothing good,” Samuel admitted. “Arch-Overlord may be attempting to use Lieze as a vessel. All the power and energy that Void Dark has gathered is to go to her. And Arch-Overlord wants to use her to power the tree. Why he hasn’t yet, I don’t know. But he must be planning something. He wouldn’t unleash Seedlings throughout the Netherverse for the thrill of it.”

He was definitely empowering the tree for a purpose.

“He must be waiting for Void Dark to revive her through the use of Broken Faith Magia,” Christo suggested.

Samuel nodded. “I think you might be right. A living vessel would be more useful than a dead one.”

The most frightening part to his revelation was the fact that brutal and violent as Void Dark had been, there was a strong possibility that he was being manipulated by Arch-Overlord. What was that demon capable of? Was he simply good with words and pretty promises? Or did he have the strength to back them up, too?

Both Samuel and Christo winced and shot each other sorrowful glances when they heard Killia’s voice desperately call out to his master.

Samuel turned around in time to witness Killia and Zeroken kneeling by their master’s side, each holding a hand in theirs, unable to do anything as their master’s body began to dissipate into the either in small orbs of light.

Then…he was gone.

Samuel dashed forward and immediately made his way to Killia. He dropped down to his knees and hugged him from behind; folding his arms across Killia’s stomach and torso as he pressed his cheek against back, between his wings.

That was all the comfort he could offer him for the moment.

Killia truly lost a precious person because of Void Dark.

But there was still a chance to save the one that had residency in his heart.

… … … … …

The encounter against, what they thought at the time was Demon General Bloodis but was actually Goldion, was not an easy battle. And the aftermath was even more devastating. So they returned to Gorgeous Reborn to recuperate for a short while.

And for Killia to take a few moments to gather his whirlwind of thoughts.

Samuel was partly to blame for that. The questions he had asked Goldion revealed a lot of distressing replies, but they were answers that they needed to know. Especially those regarding Lieze. But it was best that it was Goldion that revealed her existence and not someone else.

With a flutter of his wings, Samuel made his way onto the walkway above the main bridge and he quietly made his way to the lone figure sat on the corner platform. Killia stared out through the windows, at the Netherworld Dark Demise with an stoic expression.

“How did you know about Lieze?” Killia asked him as he approached.

Samuel bit the inside of his mouth to hold back a wince. “You remember the Netherworld where we met Void for the second time, don’t you?”

“When Void suddenly appeared and separated us? Yeah, I remember.”

Samuel lowered himself down to sit next to him. “Back on that world, when I was left alone with Void, I knew that there was no way I could fight him. So, in desperation, I attempt to engage in conversation with him. And, for some reason, it worked.”

Killia snapped his head toward him, to look at him incredulously. “What?”

“It wasn’t much of a conversation,” Samuel said with a forced half smile. “But I did get a few pieces of information out of him.”

Killia fell silent as he continued to look at him. “…Was it then that you realise that Lieze may be somehow involved?”

Samuel gave a slow nod of his head. “Yes. I asked him if the purpose of this war was his sister, and he confirmed it. She was the reason he was gathering energy. And with him having already stolen your Overload skill Alma Ice Sculpture, I put two and two together.”

The man beside him fell silent once more as he turned his head to look out over at Dark Demise once more. His expression was as impassive as before. Contemplative, Samuel hoped. Yet, he could not help but feel a little panicky.

“I didn’t want to hurt you, Killia,” he began. “I didn’t want to raise the possibility and for it to be false. I didn’t want to break your heart. That is why I didn’t tell you about my theory from back then.”

Really, how did one start that kind of conversation?

“I wanted to say something earlier,” he continued to ramble, “but then Killidia happened, and then the Seedlings, and then I had my own breakdown and issues.”

Killia continued to remain silent and Samuel felt nauseated.

“…Are you mad?” he asked weakly.

“No.” Killia finally turned to look at him. “I understand why you did it. You did it for my sake. Everything you’ve done has been for someone else’s sake. This is no different.”

Samuel felt like he could breathe again. “Killia…”

“But there’s something else, isn’t there?”

Samuel didn’t want to say it, but he had to now. “I don’t know what condition she may be in. Arch-Overlord has been confirmed to be involved. I don’t know what he’s capable of. I’m worried. If it was just Void, then there was a chance that he was just trying to bring her back to life. But Arch-Overlord’s involvement brings many unpredictable possibilities.”

Killia frowned as he suddenly looked at him with concern and…guilt? “You…you’ve been carrying this with you this whole time?”

“Ah, I guess so.” Samuel shook his head before he placed a hand on Killia’s shoulder, pivoting slightly to face him. “But this isn’t about me, Killia. This is about you. Lieze may be saved. How…do you feel about that?”

An uneasy expression flickered across Killia’s face and he released a deep sigh, his shoulders slumping forward. “…I don’t know,” he admitted. “I don’t know how I feel honestly.”

Samuel did not know how to feel about it either. His head was a mess and his chest, his heart ached. So much.

It was selfish. Oh-so selfish, but he was scared that he was going to lose Killia. That the strong connection they had built up over the time they had spent together was coming to an end. It was going to be severed.

And there was nothing he could, or would do, to stop it.

If Lieze was alive, if she could be saved, Killia was going to choose her over him. There was…there was no doubt in his mind that he would. And when he did, Samuel would have no choice but to leave because…seeing Killia with someone else, even seeing him happy with someone else, would be too much for him. And his heart.

And he was afraid what would happen if his heart was constantly broken…

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 34) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Slightly late update today. Fibromyalgia flare-ups is to blame. But I still managed to update on the weekend, so that’s something! Anyway, hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

-

Chapter 34:

It was with Killia’s assistance that Samuel made his way through the portal and back to the Pocket Netherworld. Finding himself in the all too familiar environment was immediately comforting.

For a time, as he laid captive in that tent at the Lost Encampment, he thought he would never see the Pocket Netherworld again.

The main bridge was surprisingly crowded with Prinnies, with other Rebels, and with Panchos. They all stopped what they were doing to turn to look at them, and as Samuel look back at them in turn, he promptly realised that the faces of the Rebels were all those he had helped himself recently.

They all felt the need to repay him.

“Everyone, thank you for your help,” Samuel said, truly sincere in his gratitude.

“How are you feeling?” Panchos was the one to ask.

Samuel subconsciously pressed his hand against his side, hoping to hide the blood stains through the white bandages. “Other than the old injuries being agitated, I got away relatively unscathed.”

That reassured the crowd and there was a notable sigh of relief. An abrupt silence fell over everyone, however, when Seraphina appeared. She appeared stoic, her expression completely unreadable as she stood before them.

“I wish to talk to Samuel,” she said simply.

Samuel looked at Seraphina for a moment before he nodded his head. It was a conversation that could not be delayed. He turned his head to his right, toward Killia, and placed a hand on his arm. “It’s alright. It’ll only take a moment.”

Killia looked subtly reluctant, but nodded his head regardless. “Alright, but not too long. We need to have someone to look at your injuries.”

“I know, I know,” Samuel returned.

It took more energy than he would like to admit to pry himself from Killia’s arms to follow Seraphina down the steps from the main bridge and somewhere they could speak in private. Eventually, they found a quiet corner of the Pocket Netherworld and Seraphina paused in her steps. She kept her back toward him, silently taking a moment to consider her words.

Finally, Seraphina turned to face him and drew in a deep breath. “This is not an easy for me to say, but…I must apologise.”

That absolutely killed her to say, but he was not going to comment on that.

“I see,” Samuel murmured. “So, your maids, they did it for you. Why?”

“They did it because you were coming between Sir Killia and I.”

That was one of the reasons the maids have given him before, so he was not surprised by the response.

“So, they got rid of the competition.” One hell of a way to do it. “And that wasn’t your suggestion?”

Seraphina scowled at him. “Of course, it wasn’t.”

Samuel stared at her with narrow eyes.

Seraphina’s scowl dissipated into an expression of guilt. “I-I may have mentioned in in jest, but I was merely joking. If I had wanted to get rid of you, I would have done it far sooner. And if a different manner.”

He supposed that was true. And he was certain that she had plenty of ideas floating around in that head of hers.

“I figured as much,” Samuel said. He shook his head, however, unable to stop himself from scowling. “This was too much. Handing me over to Void was a sure-fire way to devastate Killia.”

“I could never do anything that would actually hurt Sir Killia,” Seraphina quickly exclaimed.

Samuel nodded. “I know.”

Still, that did not explain why they seemed so…chummy with the Lost Soldiers when they handed him over to them. They obviously had been communicating with them long before they got to him.

“…There is another reason,” Seraphina admitted.

“Oh?”

“They did it for the award money.”

Samuel must admit he was not expecting that. “The money? Surely, three-hundred-million HL would be pocket change for someone like you.”

Seraphina did not respond, simply closed her eyes, and drew in a deep breath, as if attempting to find peace within herself.

“Gorgeous is the richest Netherworld in the Netherverse, right?”

“Not anymore.”

Samuel blinked. “What? What happened?”

“My father spent all of our money on fortifying Gorgeous’ security and defences.” Seraphina suddenly looked jovial, almost delusional. “I’m completely broke.”

“What?”

Seraphina pouted as she planted her hands on her hips. “I won’t repeat myself. Unfortunately, it’s true. However, the one consolation is that I have integrated my Pocket Netherworld with Gorgeous, making a powerful weapon and craft that will take us directly to Void Dark’s fortress.”

“Is that so? So, that’s what Killia meant that the Pocket Netherworld has been incorporated into Gorgeous.” He hadn’t noticed a changed, honestly.

Void’s fortress…

That…was a good thing, he supposed. They were one step closer to ending this brutal war. He hoped they were ready. Samuel better hurry up and heal so that his Overload Skill would be at its most advantageous for everyone.

As much as Seraphina infuriated him, they truly would be lost without her resources. He supposed he should show some gratitude. But in a way that she would not take advantage of or won’t come back to bite him in the ass.

Hmm…

“…You know,” Samuel began, “if you need money, I hear that a certain owner of a certain magazine has collected quite the fortune, though has hidden it. If you manage to find that fortune, and take over that certain magazine, I’m sure you can recoup your loses rather quickly.”

Seraphina stared at him openly for a moment before she cracked a bit of a smile. “Why, Samuel, that’s positively demonic.”

“Only by half,” Samuel joked in response.

Seraphina laughed but quickly caught herself, flushing a like pink. “Th-this doesn’t make us comrades or anything.”

Samuel nodded. “Absolutely not. We’re still disdainful rivals.”

“As the way things should be.” Seraphina placed her hands on her hips as a scowl suddenly made it’s way upon her features. “Now, if you excuse me, I must deal with a certain little group of underlings.”

She then turned on her heel and stalked away, not bothering to wait for a response from Samuel. Not that he had anything else to say to her. He still had a lot of questions, true, but he was also tired and a tad sore. He kinda just wanted to get his bandages changed so he could take a nap or something.

He was sure that Seraphina was more than efficient at disciplining her own servants.

As he turned around to make his way back to the main bridge, the sight of Killia with Christo approaching made him pause. Instead waiting for the two to reach him.

“Is everything all right?” Killia immediately asked.

Samuel nodded. “Yeah, it’s been worked out. Seraphina is going to take care of her maids responsible. It has nothing to do with me.”

“Alright,” Killia said. “Red Magnus explained to us what had happened. It’s safe to say that Seraphina is not happy.”

No, she definitely was not.

“It’s good that it’s all sorted,” Christo said before he narrowed his eyes in Samuel’s direction. “Now, let me see those injuries of yours.”

With the hospital close by, Samuel dutifully nodded his head and followed Christo into a ward. He promptly slipped his vest from his shoulders and sat down on the edge of the bed. He aided Christo in peeling off the bandages, noting in mild alarm the red stains on the white dressings.

An exasperated sigh from Christo indicated to Samuel that he was not pleased.

“Ah, reopened?”

“Indeed,” Christo muttered. “This will take a moment.”

Samuel dutifully sat still as Christo used several healing spells and after a few minutes, wound a fresh set of bandages around his stomach and torso. The dressings were restricting, but he must admit that he felt better with them on.

“Alright, done,” Christo announced. “This time, I recommend the security of your room.”

That sounded good to Samuel, too.

… … … … …

Samuel found himself startled from a dreamless sleep, though he did not immediately know what or why pulled him into consciousness. He lifted his head up off of his pillow and peered drowsily through the darkness of his room. His gaze soon flickered toward a figure standing by his bed and he unconsciously winced.

“Easy, it’s just me,” a familiar voice soothed.

“Killia?” Samuel murmured, still drowsy, but conscious enough to sense that something was troubling the other man. “Are you all right?”

“I’m all right,” Killia immediately answered. “I was just checking in on you.”

Samuel’s vision gradually began to clear and he sat up in bed. Instead of attempting to reassure Killia, he looked up at him with a sense of guilt. “I’m sorry. I scared you again today, didn’t I?”

Killia became silent as he looked into his eyes, his own honey golden eyes conveying several conflicting emotions. Several of which Samuel could not quite put his finger on. Yet, it became crystal clear when Killia’s shoulders sagged forward and he held out his hand in front of him.

“…You could have been lost. Again. All because…”

Samuel silently slipped out of bed and to his feet. In one fluent motion, he stepped toward Killia and raised his arms, wrapping them around his neck. “…I know,” he murmured as he pressed his body against his, hoping that their physical closeness would offer the other some comfort.

Killia responded just as quickly; one arm around his waist as his entangled his fingers of his other through Samuel’s hair.

“I know,” Samuel said again, nuzzling his cheek against Killia’s shoulder. “That wasn’t your fault.”

It was his. Probably. He could have handled that differently if he had known it was just petty jealousy that fuelled those maids, and not maliciousness against the Rebel Army. At the time he did not know that. How could he? He could not take the chance that they were traitors. They certainly were more than happy to work with the Lost and to hand him over to them.

But…jealousy. Petty jealousy.

That was what fuelled Killia’s and Void’s so-called rivalry, wasn’t it? Void being jealous of Killia? With Killia being chosen by Goldion to inherit the Ultimate Demon Fist Technique and with Lieze choosing to spend time with him over her own twin brother.

Jealousy. Killia had already lost so much to the jealousy of another.

Samuel promised himself that he would never let his own jealousy ever hurt Killia.

If Killia loved another…he would be content with loving him from afar.

He had to be.

… … … … …

Samuel sat in a highbacked chair on the main bridge, negated there due to his injuries. Healing was what he needed to do, above all else.

They were planning on storming Void’s fortress soon. But Samuel was worried. Naraka was still out there, somewhere. His arm may have been severely broken, but his tongue was as sharp and vile as his blade.

He needed to be dealt with, too.

That was why he took to the main bridge without complaint, and promptly sat himself down in front of the reports monitor, hoping to figure out a possible location of where Naraka could be hiding.

“I’m not talking to you, plip.”

A rather cross sounding Usalia pulled Samuel from his work. He lifted his head up and pivoted his chair to look down from the bridge to the communal area before the water fountain. Where Usalia and Seraphina stood, and appeared to be…arguing?

“C-come now, I was simply joking,” Seraphina insisted.

“I don’t believe you, plip.”

That angry stubbornness. That was very uncharacteristic of Usalia.

“What’s going on?” Samuel asked, his attention directly toward Christo who stood before the maps and atlases. “I thought we’ve established that Seraphina wasn’t to blame for what happened.”

Christo looked over at him, completely unbothered. “Oh, something occurred on Gorgeous, you could say. And Usalia isn’t very happy with Seraphina.”

Samuel blinked before he narrowed his eyes slightly, suspicion creeping in. “…Does it have something to do with Killia?”

“You could say that.”

“Breaking up Killia and Samuel, will be like breaking up my parents!” Usalia exclaimed loudly and suddenly. “And I won’t allow that, plip!”

A silence seemed to fall over the entirety of the Pocket Netherworld.

…Pardon? Did she just-?

“D-don’t be difficult, child,” Seraphina scolded in an attempt to hide her embarrassment. “Wouldn’t Sir Killia and I make better parents for you?”

Usalia folded her arms angerly across her chest, stuck her nose in the air, and turned her back on Seraphina. “Nope. I’ve made up my mind, plip.”

He…remembered Usalia saying something like that before. How she found comfort being with both Samuel and Killia. Watching the two of them reminded her of her parents.

Samuel pushed up from his chair and walked down the stairs. “Usalia, can you give me a hand with something? I want to make curry for everyone who helped me the other day as a thank you for all their help.”

Usalia immediately whirled around and nodded her head. “Of course, plip.”

Samuel smiled at Usalia and the two of them turned in the direction of the much beloved curry kitchen. As they walked, however, Samuel could not help but look over his shoulder, toward Seraphina. And he stuck his tongue out at her, leaving her bristling wildly behind them.

Petty? Maybe. Just a bit of revenge.

The kitchen was empty, leaving just the two of them to cook whatever they pleased. And it gave Samuel the privacy needed to speak with Usalia. To get some information on what happened on Gorgeous as Killia seemed reluctant to talk about it.

In fact, all he would say to him was “we’ll talk about after you’ve healed”.

And after what he had overheard just moments ago, he was incredibly suspicious.

“Usalia, I noticed that you haven’t been very happy with Seraphina lately,” Samuel began. “Is something wrong? Did something happen on Gorgeous?”

Usalia stood upon a stool as she began to chop up some carrots. “Seraphina tried to pretend that she and Killia were engaged, plip.”

“…What?”

“Uh huh.” She carried on, undaunted. “Then, then her father was about to betray us to Void, but Seraphina was about to disobey him, but only if Killia married her. Of course, she was joking, but was she really, plip?”

“M-marry…?” Samuel spluttered, a strange heated feeling of anger mixed with jealousy and protectiveness rushing through him. He glanced up from Usalia and over the kitchenette, immediately catching sight of a certain demon.

He slammed his hands atop of the counter, barely even disturbing Usalia, and leaned across the kitchenette. “Killia! Get over here!”

Killia snapped his head up, beyond startled, and immediately looked over in his direction. Eyes wide in confused. “Wh-what?” he spluttered.

“There was one specific thing I told you not to do when you went to Gorgeous,” Samuel practically seethed.

Killia blinked. He sighed, deadpanned as he wandered toward the kitchenette. “Y-yes, and I didn’t.”

Samuel stared at him with slightly narrowed eyes. He then huffed and grabbed a knife, angrily chopping at some vegetables. “The sheer audacity of that woman. When were you going to tell me?”

Killia rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, I was going to mention it when we got back, but then this thing of the maids happened, and I knew you two weren’t on the best terms…”

“Honestly,” Samuel pouted. “I’d preferred if you were handed over to Void. At least I know I could get you back from Void.”

“Samuel, Seraphina’s not that bad…”

“Am I wrong?”

“Well, I didn’t say that…”

Usalia suddenly grabbed her ears and dragged them over her eyes and face and broke out into an intense giggle fit. “You’re just like them, plip…”

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #nugatory: the secret war #fanfiction #killia #killia x samuel #killia x original character

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 33) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFnet

-

Chapter 33:

“Hellfire Shot!”

There was a whole lot of commotion going on outside of the tent. Shouting, bellowing, screaming, and a lot of frantic swearing. But that voice, that particular voice; Samuel would recognise that voice anywhere.

“Killia!”

Samuel’s voice was hoarse, surprisingly painful when he tried to yell. He could only hope that with Killia being in the thick of the chaos that he had heard him, too.

When he felt the power of the geo-panels around him dissipate, it was then that he knew that Killia had indeed heard him, that he had figured out where he was. He turned his gaze toward the entrance of the tent, and waited with bated breath…

Then, there he was.

“Samuel!”

“Killia…”

Killia was immediately in front of him, kneeling with his arms around him in an all-too desperate hug of relief. Samuel wanted to hug him back, of course, but because of his restraints, he had to settle with nuzzling his face into his neck and shoulder.

Being in Killia’s arm, being back in Killia’s arm…there were not enough words to describe the feeling of relief, the joy, the comfort Samuel felt. Nothing else mattered. Just…that.

Yet, all too soon, Killia pulled back ever so slightly. Only to undo the chains that pinned Samuel’s arms behind his back. And he uttered a sigh of relief when the chains fell away.

“Your timing is impeccable,” he said as he pulled his arms around in front of him, idly rubbing at his wrists.

Killia made short work of the chains around his ankles as well. He then took him by the shoulders and looked him straight in the eyes. “Are you all right?”

“I’m fine-” a sharp pain in his side interrupted him mid-sentence and he clutched his bandages, “-as can be.” He returned Killia’s gaze with a desperate one of his own. “Killia, the Pocket Netherworld. Is it safe?”

“It’s safe,” Killia immediately reassured, squeezing his shoulders to further comfort him. “The other Rebels are guaranteeing that it is. Also, the Pocket Netherworld is going to be incorporated into Gorgeous.”

Samuel creased his brow. “I don’t understand.”

“I’ll explain later.”

“Seraphina’s maids,” Samuel began to ramble, struck with the sudden need to explain to Killia his motives, for him to understand that he did not just throw himself into danger recklessly. “They threatened to reveal its location. I couldn’t risk it, even if it was just an idle threat. The others-”

“I know,” Killia cut him off. “Panchos told us everything.”

Panchos…looked like he paid him back in spades.

An explosion from somewhere outside the tent promptly reminded them both of their current situation.

“Can you stand?” Killia asked him as his hands slid down his shoulders to his biceps and helped to pull him to his feet. “What happened here?”

Samuel rested a hand against Killia’s chest as the other remained pressed against his side. “Parasitical Seedlings. Lost Soldiers have been lied to about Seedlings. They were told they were just Enhancers by the likes of Naraka. They have no idea that they’re just sacrificial lambs at this point.”

Well, they probably did now.

Sadly, they were unlikely to be the first or only band of soldiers to been lied to. Battalions of Lost Soldiers across the Netherverse were to be in the same predicament. Or had already succumb to them.

What side were the Wardens on?

Their own, obviously. The question should be; what were they attempting to do? Why were they gathering energy for the Tree of Death?

He would have to attempt to work that out later.

“Killia, we need to destroy these Seedlings. I hate the Lost for what they’ve done, but I hate Seedlings even more. I especially detest Naraka and everything he stands for.”

“Right.”

With his right arm crossed over his stomach and hand pressed against his side, Samuel followed Killia as the two of them bolted out of the tent and outside.

The Lost campsite was in complete disarray; tents torn, rations and supplies upturned and thrown about, and Lost Soldiers running about frantically as they attempted to fight the small, but fast and agile Parasitical Seedlings.

There were literal hundreds of them. To maintain the façade, no doubt. Samuel could easily imagine Naraka telling the Lost Soldiers that the Seedlings were harmless enhancers, that they could be used time and time again in battle.

They…seemed to have turned parasitical simultaneously. Likely the products of a previous battalion of Lost Soldiers.

Samuel just could not understand it. Did Void truly not know what the Wardens had been doing to his soldiers? Did he truly not care as long as he got the energy he wanted?

“Samuel!”

He turned away from the chaos to the reassuring presence of his companions. While there was a spike of concern that they had rushed into a potentially dangerous situation, he trusted that he had given them enough knowledge to keep themselves, and each other, safe.

Though, he had to admit to himself that Seraphina was part of the rescue party was a surprise. It gave him hope that she was not part of the whole…traitorous event.

“We were so worried!” Usalia said as he was quickly reunited with his trusted companions. “Are you ok, plip?”

Samuel nodded. Compared to what could have happened, he got away relatively unscathed. “Sorry for worrying you all again. I’m all right.”

Christo took a moment to inspect the campsite in chaos before he turned back to Killia, arching a questioning eyebrow toward him. “Killia, what would you like us to do?”

“Concentrate on the Seedlings for now. We’ll deal with the Lost Soldiers later.”

Samuel briefly wondered if Terril had listened to him and done as he was told, or had chosen to flee the camp, leaving his fellow Lost Soldiers behind. He had already lost his sister to a Seedling, resulting in him losing any resemblance of faith he had in the army. It would not be a stretch if he up and left it all behind.

“Samuel, refrain from using your Overload Skill,” Killia continued to issue his orders, granting Samuel a particular poignant stare. “You’re in no condition.”

Even if he was not injured, Samuel did not feel comfortable doing so in front of so many Lost Soldiers. Although, they were going to hand him over to Void regardless…

“Alright,” Samuel conceded without argument. “I’ll concentrate on using my elemental skills. But come to me the second you encounter a Seedling, alright?”

Killia nodded, satisfied with his response before he turned to their tactician. “Christo, stay with Samuel.”

“Very well.”

“Let’s go, everyone. You know what to do!”

Killia and the others were more than capable of battle, yet Samuel still had to remind himself to push his concern aside as they rushed themselves to the frontline. He also needed to ignore his own instincts to push forward and join them. Despite his own long-range skills, the backline never suited him.

“How are your injuries?” Christo asked him as the two prepared themselves for battle.

Samuel subconsciously pressed his hand against his side just that little bit firmly. “They’re all right. Been agitated, but could have been worse.”

Christo pulled back an arrow on his bow. “I’ll inspect them when we return to the Pocket Netherworld.”

Oh, Samuel had no doubt that he would.

But all that could be dealt with later. First, he needed to destroy these Seedlings before they took more lives. Even if they were Lost Soldiers.

Samuel was able to sense and detect the Seedlings more efficiently than the others, so he opted to attack and destroy the ones that were hidden or less noticeable. The ones that were out in the open, Killia and the others could easily deal with themselves.

Yet, picking them off one by one was going to take a while.

Amongst the chaos, he caught sight of a figure with red hair and dark clothing attempting to fight off a Seedling. Terril? He had stayed?

Maybe…

“Christo, I have an idea,” Samuel said as he turned to the man next to him. “I’ll be right back.”

Before Christo had the chance to respond, no doubt with something similar to that of a refusal, Samuel darted forward, toward the Martial Artist. He knew better than to approach the Lost Soldier face to face, however. He did not want or need to speak with him in private; he needed everyone to hear.

“Terril!” he called out, gaining the startled Martial Artist’s attention. “Get your soldiers to lure the Seedlings into the centre of camp so we can destroy them with our fire attacks! We won’t hurt your soldiers, I promise! Trust me!”

Martial stared at him, his expression unreadable. Samuel could only speculate what was running through his head. They were enemies, after all. Yet he had been betrayed by his own army, losing his sister in the process, and could very well lose his own life as well as his own soldiers.

What did he have left to lose by working with him?

Terril’s face creased into an angry, frustrated look before he abruptly turned away from him. “You heard him! Try to herd these things into the middle of camp! Throw them there if you have to!”

Samuel breathed a sigh of relief. Good. Now, for the second half of his plan.

“Killia!”

Killia slipped from the frontline to make his way over to him. “What are you planning?”

“I want you, me, and Zeroken to use our fire attacks after everyone else herds the Seedlings into the centre of camp,” Samuel explained. “It would take too long for us to pick them off one by one.”

Killia nodded and placed his hand upon Samuel’s shoulder. “That should work. Alright, stay back, I’ll take care of things from here.”

“Right.”

Samuel turned on his heel and made his way back to Christo’s side. He probably needed that time to gather the mental energy needed for such a widespread fire attack.

The one thing they had going for them was that the Seedlings were not intelligent. They followed anything with a pulse that moved. Luring them into one place, even just hurling them there, should be easy.

As long as none of the Parasitical Seedlings latched onto anyone and turned them into victims.

With the Lost Soldiers’ help, Samuel sensed that the vast majority of the Seedlings had congregated into the centre of the campsite. “Killia!”

“Got it! Let’s go, Zeroken!”

“You got it, Bro!”

Samuel pulled his hand free from his injured, to hold both his hands out in front of him. Two magic circles appeared before his palms, red in colour. He focused his intent upon the centre of the writhing mass of Parasitical Seedlings, knowing that each and every one of them could brutally take a life. And they would do so without remorse.

But he was not going to let them.

Killia’s and Zeroken’s Hellfire Shot attacks combined with Samuel’s Mega Fire attack magnificently, resulting in a powerful fire assault in the middle of the campsite. So powerful that Samuel resorted to using a series of Mega Ice spells to encircle the flames to ensure that the flames did not spread too rapidly.

Thankfully, he managed to keep the flames isolated and prevented any Seedlings from jumping out and fleeing. And as the smoke cleared, it revealed the Seedlings to be smouldering husks before they vaporised into the ether.

There, that was the vast majority of them. That just left the stragglers. Samuel should be able to handle them easily enough.

Although feeling somewhat breathless, Samuel ignored that feeling and pressed his hand against his side once more as he set about using his fire attack to dispose of any hidden nasties. Which were not that many, thankfully.

Parasitical Seedlings, while dangerous, were also stupid.

“Whew, is that all of them?” Zeroken asked.

Samuel silently inspected the campsite for a moment before he nodded his head. “I can’t sense anymore.”

With the danger over, Samuel re-joined his companions, leaving the Lost Soldiers to walk around their campsite in a bit of a daze.

“Where did they all come from, plip?” Usalia questioned as she inspected their surroundings.

“Naraka,” Samuel answered with a shake of his head. “He was willing to sacrifice this band of Lost Soldiers for whatever end goal he has in mind.”

Christo frowned as he fidgeted with his glasses. “This Naraka is far more ruthless than the previous two Wardens.” His fidgeting abruptly stopped as he arched an eyebrow, idly folding an arm across his torso. “Now, what should we do with these Lost Soldiers.”

Surprisingly, Terril walked straight up to them. Killia and the others around Samuel abruptly tensed, but Samuel reached out to place a hand on Killia’s arm, silently indicating to him to at least hear out what he had to say.

“At this point, I don’t care what you do to me,” Terril practically spat. “I’ve already lost my sister to one of those Seedlings. It’s clear that those in charge of the Lost Army do not care what happen to us ‘underlings’.”

Samuel could not help but look at Terril with pity. He knew exactly what it was like, watching a beloved sibling die to a Seedling. His sister may have been the reason he joined the Lost Army in the first place.

And he still did not know her name.

Killia turned to him and tilted his head subtly to the side quizzically.

“His sister wanted to try out an ‘Enhancer’, unaware of what it truly was,” Samuel explained. “She was the first victim. Even if she hadn’t, the Seedlings were all on the verge of becoming Parasitical. Naraka truly didn’t care what happened to them.”

“I see…” There was pity in Killia’s eyes, too.

“Very well, we’ll accept that as your surrender,” Christo stated without prompting, believing that Terril was of no threat to them. “Now, since we are here, this is the perfect opportunity to inspect a Lost encampment for any clues or information.”

Hm, good idea. Maybe they could figure out who else had betrayed them from the Rebel Army. But, more importantly, maybe he could learn what it was that Void wanted from him. Then again, it was unlikely that a band of soldiers that were destined to be sacrifice would know.

However, they may know something of importance, which may be a reason for their sacrificial lamb status.

Ugh, then again it could just because of the Lost Army doing what they do best…

“You do that if you wish,” Seraphina stated, her tone sharp and terse. “I, on the other hand, will return. I have a few maids that I would like to speak with. Speaking of which, what happened to the two that had escorted you here to this Netherworld, Samuel?”

Samuel turned his pitying gaze toward his gun-toting so-called rival. “I’m afraid they were both killed by a Lost Soldier. Sorry. There was nothing I could have done.”

Seraphina’s expression remained passive, but she drew in a sharp intake of air through her nose. “I see…” was all she uttered before she pulled out her teleporter.

“I’ll go back, too,” Red Magnus unexpectedly announced. “I want to check in on Panchos. That ok, Killia?”

He also wanted to keep an eye on Seraphina, too. Despite the way she treated him like her personal shooting range, he seemed to care for her. And, rather surprising to Samuel, Seraphina did not object to him tagging along.

Killia nodded. “That’s perfectly fine. We won’t be here for long.”

The two nodded before the teleporter was activated and the two stepped through, re-entering the Pocket Netherworld. The portal soon dissipated, with no added extras coming in or out, thankfully.

With that, Christo, along with Usalia and Zeroken, decided to inspect the camp. And surprising Samuel once more, Terril led them over to the tent that he had been held prisoner in, leaving Killia and Samuel in the centre of camp, with Lost Soldiers wandering around like their namesake; lost.

He wondered how much Terril had managed to tell them about the Seedlings, or if they were still stunned by the sight of watching one of them own die a brutal death after ingesting a so-called ‘harmless enhancer’.

A sharp, crippling pain in his side caused Samuel to release a hiss and instinctively curl his body toward his left side, his hands flying up to clutch at the bandages and wading. “Hng…”

“What is it?” Killia immediately asked as he wrapped an arm around his back. “Your injuries?”

“Y-yeah,” Samuel gritted out. “I guess adrenaline has worn off.”

“Let me see.”

Samuel pressed his lips together as he straightened his posture and peeled back the corner of his vest to reveal his bandages. He knew Killia could not and would not take his bandages off in the middle of the field, but if blood was seen through the padding, that meant only one thing.

“How bad?” he asked as Killia carefully inspected his stomach and back.

“Looks like they’ve reopened.”

Damn it. Blood was seeping through the padding.

Samuel sighed as he released his hold on his vest to instead press his right hand against the wadding, adding a bit of pressure to hopefully stem the bleeding. “I’m not surprised.”

Killia immediately pressed himself against Samuel’s right side, his arm wrapped around the small of his back and his hand resting atop of Samuel’s hand that was pressed against his side. Samuel uttered another sigh as he leaned against Killia, grateful for his support.

He knew that he should not lower his guard as he was still out in the middle of an unknown Netherworld, surrounded by Lost Soldiers. But being in Killia’s arms always made him forget about any possible danger or consequences.

“We should get you back to the Pocket Netherworld, too,” Killia said, making no attempt to hide his concern.

“Not yet. I want to see if Christo finds anything.”

“Killia, Samuel.”

Speaking of which.

Turning his head away from Killia, Samuel watched as Christo walked over to them with a tight frown on his lips and a hastily furled scroll in his hand. As he reached them, he unfurled the scroll and when Samuel found himself staring at a surprisingly well-done sketch of himself, accompanied with an adequate description, he winced.

And Killia unconsciously pulled him closer protectively.

“I found this in one of the tents,” Christo revealed. “It seems that Samuel truly has a bounty on his head.”

…Three-hundred-million HL?! A tad overpriced in his opinion.

Was that what the maids wanted?

“Yeah, that is the one thing that can’t be denied; Void is after me,” Samuel relented, “and Naraka appears to be helping him.”

Christo’s eyes abruptly narrowed as he hastily refurled the scroll. “I don’t suppose you know what he wants with you?”

Samuel shook his head. “No, I have no idea. But he wants me alive.”

“That is one thing going in our favour,” Killia muttered.

But if Arch-Overlord was involved, he could only fear what the two want with him…

Samuel sighed aloud, with sheer exasperation as he clutched his forehead with his hand. “I cannot believe this is because of a couple of maids…”

“Samuel-”

“I know,” Samuel cut Killia off. “Seraphina isn’t behind this.”

Christo regarded him curiously. “Hm? Under these circumstances, I wouldn’t blame you if you did place the culpability on her. After all, Seraphina has spoken quite candidly about being rid of you for quite a while.”

Oh, he was well aware.

“Don’t get me wrong, I still don’t trust her as far as I could kick her,” he admitted. “But there is one thing we can agree on; we wouldn’t do anything to hurt Killia. And this? Yeah, this would definitely hurt Killia.”

The most damaging thing that anyone could do to Killia would be to hand him, or any of their companions, over to Void. For any reason.

“And if Void got a hold of your Overload Skill, it would hurt the entire Rebel Army,” Killia added.

A thought flickered through Samuel’s mind, a brief musing that said that even if Void managed to get a hold of him, his Overload skill was safe as only Halflings could use it. Only he could use it.

Could that be right?

“Ah, right,” Samuel muttered in response to Killia’s comment. “Those maids likely acted on their own, probably prompted by her ranting about me. Acting on their own misguided loyalty and were manipulated by the Lost themselves. Of course, that’s just a theory. They could very well be Lost spies who got close to Seraphina in order to cast suspicion upon her.”

“Let’s return to the Pocket Netherworld and find out,” Killia commanded. He then pulled Samuel closer and looked at him sternly. “And this time, I’ll make sure you’ll get some rest.”

Samuel couldn’t help but smile. “Right, right.”

#disgaea 5 #disgaea #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel

[theshatteredrose]

Nugatory: The Secret War (Chapter 32) - Disgaea 5 Fanfiction

AN: Hope you enjoy reading~

Ao3 | Wattpad | Inkitt | FFNet

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Chapter 32:

Killia breathed a sigh of relief. Though, it was more of a sigh of liberation. He dodged a bullet, as they say.

Samuel may claim to be not to be psychic, but he was becoming increasingly convinced that he was. He assumed that he was joking when he warned him that he better not return to the Pocket Netherworld married.

He would have been so mad and upset if Killia did return married. He could imagine him spluttering with a righteous anger. Justifiably, really.

Being married to Seraphina was the last thing Killia wanted.

That was not a slight against Seraphina. As he had said before, long ago, there was nothing inherently wrong with Seraphina. He just did not want to have a relationship with her. She was a comrade. A trustworthy companion whom he owed so much to. The Rebel Army could not have existed without her and her Pocket Netherworld.

But to repay her through marriage? No. He could never allow that. He could never, would never fake such feelings of affection. He would never live a lie. How could he even begin to pretend to hold such feelings? How could Seraphina be content to live a life of lies?

He was ashamed to admit it, but for a moment, he feared that if he did not agree to marry Seraphina, she would have handed him, along with everyone else, over to Void. Her Netherworld had been turned into a state-of-the-art war machine, her father turned into a hideous beast in an attempt to disguise himself, and most importantly; she was flat broke. She had nothing left to lose.

Throughout their journey through Gorgeous, she had lied to them, knowing that she was leading them to their father’s trap. It…was a little disheartening.

In the end, she defied her father’s demands and released them, thankfully. And her heart grew as a result, as did her Overload Skill. Although, she was still treating men like objects to bend to her will. That would never change, he supposed.

Still, Seraphina had learned to value her comrades and companions over material items. Wealth could be rebuilt. Companionship was truly priceless.

Killia could only hope that she would also value his friendship over her desire to possess him. And he would like for her to stop sniping at Samuel, but maybe that was asking for too much. Their disdain for each other was mutual, anyway.

Speaking of Samuel, Killia hoped that he was resting. That injury…

“Whew,” a somewhat familiar voice abruptly jolted Killia from his musings. “I wish we had this kind of security on Scorching Flame…”

Red Magnus immediately spun around and looked down the long gangway that reached back into the inner workings of Gorgeous and his eyes widen in surprise. “Panchos?! Wh-what in the red hells are you doing here?”

Panchos’ head snapped up and he rushed forward. “M-Master Red Magnus, something terrible has happened!”

“Huh? What? What happened?”

“It’s Samuel, sir,” Panchos began, slightly breathless and talking with his hands. “Two maids, who happened to be informants for the Lost Army, blackmailed him into leaving the Pocket Netherworld and forced him into a meeting with a Lost informant!”

It took a moment for all the information to filter into Killia’s head. “What?!”

Panchos jumped back, startled by Killia’s outburst. “W-we tried to get into contact with you, b-but there was interference from this Netherworld. And I tried to get to you as soon as I could, b-but the security here was, well, you know…”

Oh, he knew about the security alright. And that meant they wasted too much time!

“Where is he?” Killia demanded. “Did you manage to keep track of him?”

“Y-yes! The prinnies immediately knew something was wrong and tracked him to a Netherworld. The two maids that went with him, however, we lost contact with. They never returned.”

Killia could barely believe it. Traitors within the Rebel Army. Maids, no less. Wait, Maids? The only maids that reside within the Pocket Netherworld worked for…

“From what I understand, the maids responsible are extremely loyal to Madam Seraphina,” Panchos revealed, responding as if he had read Killia’s thoughts.

Everyone turned their gazes over toward Seraphina, who responded by turning white and taking a few shaky steps backwards.

“W-wait, what are you saying?” she stuttered.

Killia drew in a slow breath. No, he could not allow doubt to cloud his mind. Seraphina had just proven herself to be a loyal member of the Rebel Army. She had allowed her home world to become a stronghold for said army.

She could not be a traitor. She couldn’t.

“You don’t have to believe me,” Panchos said. “Return to the Pocket Netherworld for yourself. Samuel is not there. And he wouldn’t leave willingly, would he?”

No, he wouldn’t. He made that promise to him before Killia left.

“We’ve wasted enough time here. Christo, activate the teleporter. We need to sort this mess out. Now.”

“Understood.”

In a matter of seconds, they were transported back to the main bridge of the Pocket Netherworld. The sight that greeted them was an unusual one; their dimensional gatekeeper prinny stood near the back of the bridge, while a line of Rebels stood in a line near the stairs. And at the top step of the stairs stood three maids.

Killia recognised a few of the Rebels to be those that Samuel had helped recently, whose comrades had been infected with Seedlings and had returned in hopes that Samuel could cleanse them and save their lives.

And he recognised the maids to be those who worked solely for Seraphina.

“Killia, you’re back, dood!”

Killia turned to their gatekeeper. “What’s the situation?”

“These maids tried to use the dimensional portal, but we prevented them, dood.”

A deep frown marred Seraphina’s features and she marched toward the line of Rebels and pushed past them. “You three, explain yourselves,” she demanded.

A Maid dressed in blue regarded Seraphina with surprise. “M-Madam Seraphina, we were just doing some errands, like you asked of us.”

“Errands?” Seraphina placed her hands on her hips. “I do not remember making any requests that require leaving the Pocket Netherworld.”

“B-but, Madam Seraphina…”

Killia turned his attention back to their gatekeeper. “Do you have Samuel’s location?”

“We’ve tracked him to a Netherworld, but we don’t have his exact location, unfortunately. His phone has been discovered here in the Pocket Netherworld, dood.”

While Killia would have preferred his exact location, tracking him to a single Netherworld was better than nothing. They just needed to inspect every Lost campsite and encampment. No matter how many there were.

“Where are these other two maids?” Seraphina demanded.

“The ones who accompanied Samuel through the portal haven’t returned either, dood.”

“There are others that are said to be extremely loyal who are in on this,” Panchos added.

Killia tried to suppress his frustration, but it was difficult. They were wasting time. “The matter of these traitorous maids will be dealt with later. Prinny, I will head to this Netherworld right away.”

“Understood, dood.”

“Panchos, you stay here and if those maids come back, you have the authority to hold them under arrest, alright?”

“Understood, Master Red Magnus.”

Christo turned to Killia and gave him a concerned look. “Let’s hope that we get to Samuel before they take him away to Void Dark.”

Yeah…

… … … … …

Samuel slowly opened his eyes. Lightheaded and confused, he gradually began to assess his condition and surroundings. He laid on his side, thin but sturdy chains restraining his arms to his sides and pinned his wrist behind his back. He rested on a make-shift futon in the middle of a tent, surrounded by glowing green geo-panels.

Chains were wound around his ankles, too. Pressing his lips together, he gathered up enough energy to lash out his legs and his foot immediately collided with an invisible wall.

Just as he had suspected. No Entry geo-panels. He was trapped.

The geo-blocks must be located somewhere outside the tent. Out of sight, out of range of his elemental attacks.

Samuel slumped against the futon and sighed. He really was a prisoner of the Lost. He truly was betrayed by Seraphina’s maids and handed over to a band of Lost Soldiers. At least he could not say it was not a deed that went unpunished.

He could only hope that the Pocket Netherworld was safe.

A sharp pain in his side promptly reminded that Samuel was not only a prisoner, but an injured one, at that. And he doubted that his new hosts would be as merciful and generous as the healers back at the hospital.

Rolling his head to the side, he noted that the entrance of the tent was open, revealing the red trees and dark bridges, indicating that he was still on that same Netherworld the Maids had escorted him too. That was a bit of a relief.

There was still a chance of a rescue.

It was also a bit curious. Why hadn’t they tried to take him back to Void?

Never mind him. Now that Samuel was more awake, he sensed that distinct sensation of Seedlings being in the vicinity.

Samuel subconsciously tensed when the Martial Artist from before suddenly appeared from the entrance and marched straight over to him.

“You’re awake.”

“Why am I still here?” Samuel asked, not having the energy to move.

“We can’t hand you over to Demon Emperor Void Dark while injured,” the Martial Artist explained with a frown. “It will reflect badly upon us. We have no choice but to wait until you have healed.”

So that was why they had not transported him straight to Void. A small blessing in disguise. But that also meant he was likely to be in the hands of this particular band of Lost Soldiers for quite some time.

Then again, plenty of time for Killia to find him. And he would. He would do whatever it took to find him.

From behind the redheaded Martial Artist, another figure appeared. She was the Lady Samurai who killed the two maids without a second thought.

“Where are those Enhancers?” she asked.

The Martial Artist’s frown deepened. “On the desk in the corner. Why?”

“I want to try one.”

“We were told to only use them in battle.”

“Oh, what’s the harm? I want to simply try one. Maybe throw a few of the underlings around. We’re stuck here until this guy heals, anyway.”

Enhancers?

Seedlings…

“Can’t you just find some prisoners or other inhabitants to attack instead?”

“Don’t tell me what to do, Terril.”

So, the Martial Artist’s name was Terril, huh?

Samuel lifted his head up from the futon and watched as the Lady Samurai walked over to the desk. A small wooden crate sat on said desk, and she reached into it. As she pulled her hand back, she revealed a golden object in the shape of a stereotypical seedling with a blazing sun and water droplet etched into the side.

And his heart sank into the pit of his stomach.

He was right. Seedlings. Someone, perhaps three specific wardens, had been handing out Seedlings to the Lost Soldiers, telling them they were nothing more than Enhancers.

Why, he had not a clue. To feed the Tree of Death, that much he knew. But why they wanted to do so, he had no idea.

What was certain; the Lady Samurai, if she actually ingested that Seedling in her hand, was to be another victim.

The Lady Samurai sent Terril a smirk as she dashed out of the tent, leaving him behind to shake his head. Terril had his lips pressed together, a clear sign of frustration, as he stared out of the tent behind her.

Samuel had to find a way to warn them about the true maliciousness of Seedlings, but how could he in a way that would make them believe him. From the short, terse confrontation between the three enhanced Overlords previously, they had been warned about him specifically.

Begging and pleading would not work. He needed to try another tactic.

Maybe a more straightforward approach?

“What’s her name?” Samuel asked, wearily.

Terril snapped his head toward him and arched an eyebrow. “Why?”

“I like to remember the names of all the victims of Enhancers. Rather, victims of Seedlings.”

“Victims?”

It was evident that he had not had the pleasure of seeing anyone use a Seedling before. His and his fellow Lost Soldiers must not have seen many battles, or they had only just been given their Seedlings recently.

“You have no idea what these Seedlings are capable of, do you?”

Terril glared at him suddenly. “I’ve been warned about you. They’re simply Enhancers.”

Warned? Then he definitely got the Seedlings from one of the wardens.

“You don’t have to listen to me. Unfortunately, you’ll see for yourself.”

Terril was going to learn a very harsh lesson. There is no way that Samuel could convince his comrade to reject the Seedling while she was enhanced. She was the one who actively sought it out. And there would be no one willing to help him to convince her to reject it.

She was doomed. That was the unfortunate truth.

“In six minutes, she will die. In agony. In six minutes, counting from the moment she ingested the Seedling, she will suddenly become completely still. She will then release a scream, a scream unlike anything you’ve ever heard in your life. She will claw at her chest as she writhers in complete agony, screaming about the pain, about being burned from the inside out. She will then fall completely limp, drained of colour, gasping for air as her limbs turn grey and slowly start to disintegrate. Then, from her crumbling corpse, a plant monster will appear. And from that monster, you will hear her voice, relive her dying moments over and over again.”

Terril stared at him, his mouth agape. He then bristled wildly, his face beet red and his face twisted into a hateful scowl. “Don’t talk about my sister like that!”

Sister?

That would make his experience so much worse.

Samuel sighed. “I’m so sorry.”

Terril sneered at him; his hands balled into fists by his sides. It was clear that if it was not for the No Entry geo-panels acting as his prison, Terril would have attacked him in some way. Likely a kick to the stomach, or a stomp on his side to hurt him further.

It would not be a surprising reaction. Lost Soldiers knew nothing but violence.

Unable to inflict said violence, Terril spun on his heel and stormed out of the tent. Leaving Samuel alone, thankfully.

Samuel laid on the futon, idly tugging at his restraints. He heard startled cries and mocking laughter erupt somewhere outside his tent, and he knew that Terril’s sister had ingested the Seedling. He uttered a sigh and idly began a countdown in his head.

Seconds ticked by. And then minutes.

Six minutes.

Then silence outside the tent.

And a scream.

A chilling, agonising, bone-chilling scream.

Samuel uttered another sigh and closed his eyes. Six minutes. Time was up. Terril and his fellow Lost Soldiers were about to be introduced to what a Seedling was actually capable of.

The sound of rapid footsteps prompted Samuel to open his eyes and he tilted his head toward the tent’s entrance. He was not at all surprised when Terril reappeared, eyes wide and a light sheen of sweat across his forehead.

“I-It’s just as you said,” he stuttered out. “Wh-what do we do?”

Samuel drew in a deep breath and held it, using it to gather the strength needed to haul himself into a sitting position. Though his side, his body screamed at him in pain, he pushed through and look over at the Lost Soldier with weary empathy.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I really am. There’s nothing that can help her now. All you can do now is prepare to battle a Snap Draingon, the plant-like monster that will spring from her body.”

“A what-?” A loud screech interrupted Terril’s question and his head whipped around to look outside of the tent. He turned on his heel and bolted outside, toward the shouting and the noises of panic.

Samuel found himself uttering yet another sigh, his shoulder drooping forward with fatigue. He winced a second later when his injury promptly reminded him of its existence.

In truth, he did pity the Lost Soldiers. Watching someone they know, whether they liked them or not, scream in utter agony before fragment and disintegrate before their very eyes, and them have a shrieking monster appear from their corpse was not a pleasant sight. A traumatic one, in fact.

Especially for a sibling like Terril.

What was likely to be dawning on all the witnesses was the realisation that it could have happened to them, too.

Samuel lifted his head when he heard footsteps once more. And once again, it was Terril. Far, far paler than before and his limbs noticeably trembling.

“Th-these…Seedlings?” he stuttered. “They’re all capable of this?”

Samuel nodded his head grimly. “Yes. These Seedlings, all of them, are capable of this. If you ingest one, this will happen to you. To all of you. To every single demon you know that has been given one. If they’ve ingested one, they’re dead. That is all that there is to it.”

“You…you knew this?”

“I know everything there is about Seedlings. And I’m not the only one.”

There were three, potentially four others that could have revealed such information. If they were not malicious, of course.

“We were told they were Enhancers,” Terril muttered, still shellshocked.

“I know.” Every victim that Samuel had encountered (except for poor Ronny) had referred to them as Enhancers. “But you were lied to.”

Lied to by the same three, possibly four malicious, manipulative demons. Two were thankfully dead, gotten what they rightfully deserved. And should Naraka rear his ugly head again, he would get what was coming to him, too.

Arch-Overlord would be a far more difficult beast to slay, however…

“But I honestly have no reason to lie to you about this,” Samuel continued. “If I wanted you dead, I would have kept my mouth shut and let you all succumb to these Seedlings. I don’t want that.”

Terril looked at him in pure confusion. “Why?”

“Because no one deserves to die in such agony.”

“My sister did.”

“And I’m sorry about your sister. I truly am.”

“They killed my sister…?” Terril whispered, sounding lost, confused. His face suddenly twisted into a look of utter rage. “That bastard. That bastard killed my sister!”

The Lost had brutally murdered millions of demons across the entire Netherworld. It was always funny how it was never an issue until it became personal.

He was not going to point that out, however. Terril’s intense reaction could be a positive for him.

“Tell me. Where did you get these Seedlings? Who gave them to you?” Samuel interrogated, leaning forward on his knees. “Was it a ninja with a crisscross scar over his eye?”

“That’s the bastard!” Terril snarled as he began to pace around the tent in a fury. “Enhancers. He said they were simply enhancers. Once we got our hands on you, and if other Rebels turned up, we would just use these ‘enhancers’ to defeat them. That’s what he said.”

Typical Naraka behaviour; sending in someone else to do the job, even if it killed them in the process.

“But he’s not getting you!” Terril yelled. “Not after this!”

Perfect! Naraka’s actions just earned him a detractor.

A high-pitched screech sliced through the air suddenly, causing a tremor to race down Samuel’s spine, and he immediately whipped his head around toward the desk in the corner of the tent. The desk that held the crate where Terril’s sister retrieved the Seedling that ultimately killed her.

He watched in horror as a Seedling with spindly insect legs scurried from the crate, followed by another. And another.

“What’s happening?” Terril demanded as he instinctively pulled his body into a fighting stance.

“The Seedlings have turn parasitical!” Samuel shouted before he quickly remembered he was talking to someone who had absolutely no idea what he was talking about. “It’s another stage of a Seedling. They’ll actively look for victims now. Do you have other Seedlings around your campsite? Did you get them at the same time?”

“A-ah, yes.”

Damn it! Naraka knew exactly what he was doing.

“You need to destroy them. All of them. Don’t let them anywhere near your mouth. And they’re weak to elemental attacks. Warn your comrades. Hurry!”

Terril hesitated for a moment, weighing up whether or not to actually listen to Samuel’s words. He was, after all, the enemy. Someone that their Lord Void Dark had demanded the capture of.

He turned on his heel and ran out of the tent. With a horde of Parasitical Seedlings on his heel. Yet as he fled outside, he ventured out into an already tumultuous disturbance, indicating that they had decaying Seedlings stored elsewhere. And they had all turned Parasitical at the same time.

They targeted anything that moved, and as long as Samuel stayed still, they should leave him be. The No Entry geo-panels should also protect him. So long as the geo-block remained in place. If that was removed, though, he was a goner.

But his restraints, his prison; there was nothing he could do to help those outside of the tent.

The Parasitical Seedlings all fled from the tent, allowing Samuel the chance to breath and he instantly began to tug at his bindings. He needed to find a way to free himself. Something could happen to the geo-block keeping him imprisoned. There was no way he was going to allow himself to become a victim of a Seedling.

He had come to far to become a victim now.

“Hellfire Shot!”

Samuel snapped his head up. That voice…

“Killia!”

#disgaea #disgaea 5 #fanfiction #nugatory: the secret war #killia #killia x original character #killia x samuel