Who: Denji, Tifa Lockhart, Jill Warrick & Eustace~ Status: Closed~ Where: All throughout Escordvi~ What: Various closed starters for the event and MANTA Board prompts~ Warnings: Mentions of death, bloodshed and EMOTIONS~
[The time had finally come for Denji and Jill to venture out on a MANTA quest together in hopes of catching the culprits at large who were targeting the innocent farmer's located upon Nogard. Many of their crops and barns had been burnt to a sunder by unknown assailants which is where the pair came in to aid in their plight. After questioning a few of the farmhands one had given them a particularly useful piece of information in the way of one perpetrator's appearance. Supposedly one had an elongated scar which led from under their right eye all the way down across his face almost as though they were slashed by a blade or monster's claw.
Taking this into consideration they decided to post up at one of the few remaining barns which that had been targeted beforehand but the owner had caught them in the knick of time before they had the chance to go through with the act which prompted them to believe they could return the following night. As nightfall loomed on the horizon with the setting of the sun, Denji and Jill hide themselves close behind a large hay bale in the open field. Looking towards his counterpart with a heavy sigh unceremoniously plopped down on the ground the boy yawns out loudly with a stretch of his arms over his head.]
Damn where are these guys I'm gettin' super bored. They gotta be here soon, right?
[This seems like an easy enough bounty to get involved in considering Jill's past adventures. Also it seems like a rather important one as this affects everyone. With the burnings eventually leading into trouble with all the food they eat here, Jill just can't stand for that. Besides, the farmers' have bothered no one and therefore, she's determined that these scoundrels leave them all be.
It's quite uncomfortable behind this hay, but Jill holds in any complaints of how a piece of hay has gotten into her boot and is determined to make itself known against all odds. She can deal with it later, not now when Denji's attention seems to be waning with his own complaint.]
Most likely, they're going to wait until it's darker. They wouldn't want the daylight catching them in the act.
[Which has her wondering how much longer until the sun is finally done setting. She doesn't care to camp out here all night on a stakeout, but whatever needs to be done will be done.]
[Everyone who knew Denji had bore witness to his pitiless stomach at one point in time or another, Jill being no exception to this after having invited him to taste test food for her in the past. Needless to say the teenager was pretty pissed off when he heard that some jerk wads were targeting the food supplies of not only the Corsairs but the masses of Escordvi as a whole which included the stocks which the Avalanche crew relied on as well. No food meant no more burgers or any of the other delicious morsels he frequented which he'd become accustom to consuming on a daily basis now almost.]
Yeah...Guess you're right. Man...I should have brought some snacks or something I'm getting hungry again.
[Stomach rumbling as he rubs the back of his neck awkwardly, a cheeky grin quickly following soon afterwards. As they continue to bide their time waiting until the sun finally sets, Denji plucks straw from the hay bale one by one. Not long after the sky was clouded in darkness the sight of torch light could be seen cresting over the nearby hill towards them causing him to perk up at attention nudging his counterpart's arm gently before pointing it out.]
Look over there seems like they are finally here. Time to kick some ass, eh?
[None to recently Denji and Eustace had a very intimate heart to heart about his desired objectives he wished to achieve here in Escordvi. First and foremost being the resurrection of his good friend Aki who was taken before his time having killed his mentor by his own hand after being reincarnated by the Gun Devil, using his body for their nefarious means to wreak carnage on the general public unmercifully.
He vowed to do anything and everything within his power to bring the other back with the power of the rifts so when the opportunity arose for the teenager to venture into the Farplane with these 'cracks' seized it without a seconds hesitation. Sure they may not have been one in the same as the rifts which brought them here but if they could bleed souls from this world into the living there had to be some similarities. Needless to say he reached out to Eustace in hopes of his trusted partner in crime and one of his closest confidants to join him after having promised to aid him in this matter should the chance ever emerge.
As they cautiously trek through the Uncharted, a dismal wasteland filled with darkness and dread at every corner, Denji's eyes dart around the general vicinity with a pensive glare, teeth grinding nervously as they descend further into the bowels of the abyss. They had to be getting close to one of these supposed cracks that were rumored to be lurking in the farthest reaches of this existence by now, looking over to Eustace with a nudge of his elbow against his counterpart's arm.]
This place gives me the creeps...You have any idea what these cracks are supposed to look like anyways, Eustace?
[After learning about the Farplane, he did wonder if Denji would try to do something... And sure enough, he received that message and could only stare it for a moment before sighing and accepting. He was of the opinion that this would be a fool's errand, but that was precisely why he decided to join Denji—to make sure he didn't get hurt.
And who knows... Maybe there is something to these cracks that could have some semblance to the rifts that connect them between worlds. Or a dead soul could end up here instead of returned alive.]
If it's anything like how rifts from the Underworld in my world, then they will look fairly obvious and out place. Like a hole or tear through the space and releasing excess energy.
[If there was even an inkling of chance for success in bringing Aki back from the dead he was sure to take it, Denji owing it to his friend to at least try given he was the one who took his life prematurely even if he was possessed by the Gun Fiend and wasn't of sound mind. It was one of the only moments of regret in his life that was filled with suffering and turmoil never one to dwell on stuff for very long. He made a promise to do whatever it took to give his companion another chance at life here in Escordvi aiming to keep it.
Standing in what appeared to be an ominous bog of sorts filled with bubbling black tar pits and decrypt trees void of life as far as the eye can see, Denji's gaze spots a rather peculiar sight as they crest over a particularly hilly landscape. A large gash streaked through the pale skies illuminating the nearby area with an iridescent glow. Pointing towards the spectacle at large the boy's expression turned to one of shock and awe, gasping aloud as his vision narrows in on their proposed target.]
Sorta like that!?
[A painfully obvious question as the teenager begins to bolt towards the tear in reality but quickly coming to a halt upon drawing closer. Energy thirsting ghost like entities littered the general vicinity causing him to grit his teeth in anger and frustration.]
Shit...These jerks are right in our way. But that's not gonna stop me when we are so close now damn it!
[Before he could say anything, Denji was already running off and all Eustace could do was sigh and follow after. This is exactly why he accepted the boy's request, knowing this would happen. And as he looks out at those ghosts...]
Hold on. What do you want to do with rift? You know we have to seal them to prevent those souls from escaping.
[Denji hadn't exactly made his intentions with the rift known to Eustace before their venture into the Farplane but could surely fancy a guess at this point. They bore a striking similarity to the ones which brought them to this world initially and if all went according to plan the boy could use this tear in reality to bring back Aki from beyond the grave.
Coming to a halt in his haste the teenager looks over his shoulder back towards his companion at the question, determination stricken over his features as his brows furrow, hands tightening into fists as he ushered out his conviction.]
I made a promise remember?! I'm gonna use this rift to bring Aki back to life and these stupid ass ghosts aren't gonna to stop me!
[He hadn't exactly thought out his approach to the whole situation very well only that it seemed like this was the best chance that had presented itself to the masses for bringing someone from another world to this place. Denji squints a bit as a hand rubs the back of his neck trying to think about it more thoroughly before stepping a bit closer towards the crack in question. Pointing a finger towards it with a look of pure determination crossing his face, the boy grits his teeth before making his intentions known to his counterpart.]
I'm gonna rush the damn thing and pull his soul right outta hell where he doesn't belong and bring him here and there's nothing you can do to stop me, Eustace!
[Pushing off with the weight of his left leg, Denji propels himself towards the rift without fear of repercussion. Unfortunately the energy sapping ghosts quickly shift their attention towards him, surging forward to close the gap between themselves until one converges with his person. Halting dead in his tracks, an ominous yellow glow forms over his eyes, falling to his knees as a cry out in agonizing pain bursts from deep in his chest echoing out around them. Not soon after he slowly rises back to his feet, a uncharacteristic smirk splayed over his lips as if he was being controlled by some otherworldly force.]
Yes...I'll bring Aki back...If I have to sacrifice myself I'll do it...Whatever it takes!
[His voice low, reverberating, certainly not sounding his own as Denji looks onward, slowly walking closer to the world's edge drawing ever closer to the rift which in his addled state of being could bring his companion back to him so long as he made the necessary offering.]
[He runs after trying to stop him, but that idiot had to just rush into literal hell. And while he tries to clear out some of those ghosts, the numbers were too many and Denji was moving too fast to keep that one from merging.
Clicking his tongue, there is no hesitation as Eustace aims Flamek and fires first right at Denji, the output lowered so that the lightning strong enough to at least momentarily stun him so that he can close that distance between them.
At least that's one benefit of a gun like his—he has the reach.]
[Unwavering resolve fueled Denji's inhibitions as he thrust himself into the bowels of Hell itself only to be stopped upon the precipice by an unruly lot of ghosts. Now one had laid claim to his personage, possessing him body and mind as it looks to expose his deepest darkest desires and make them a reality by whatever means necessary.]
I'll do it- You can fuckin' have me if you want just give him bac- Gawh!
[Hands thrown high in the sky as the hybrid is blasted unceremoniously with a bolt of lightning, surging through the entirety of his body as his knees buckle falling flat onto his face. A loud cry out in pain echoes through the darkness as he writhes on the ground, rendered immobile as Eustace rushes to his side.]
[As Eustace nears, he forms a high voltage sphere of lightning in his hand and throws it at the remaining group of ghosts, the blast similar to a grenade as it explodes. In the meantime, he presses the muzzle of his rifle against Denji's chest with a cold look down.]
[The explosive burst of lightning is successful with its intended purpose to dispatch the life sapping ghosts, leaving the pair alone to their own devices with the teenager looking up at Eustace from the flat of his back. Gritting his teeth with a look of disdain washing over his features, a hesitant nod is ushered forth albeit reluctantly as the ethereal being is expelled from his person. A pained cry out in terror seems to echo off the stale air as it quickly flees the scene of the crime to leave the boy motionless, eyes furrowing shut for a brief instance before slowly opening with a groan out in pain.]
Ugh- What the shit happened...
[Denji's memory a little fuzzy as he tries best to recollect what the fuck had just happened, a hand moving to his chest wincing a little bit as he brushed over the spot where Eustace had zapped him. Eyes blink wide before shooting up instantaneously to sit upright, scratching at his chest as a strange tingling sensation plagues his torso.]
[Eustace watches that ghost warily. He would have rather eliminated it like the rest, but he couldn't leave Denji as is. But feeling Denji stir, he looks down and while he doesn't remove his gun completely, he does lower it.]
[Slowly shrugging off the effects of the lightning which plagued his tired limbs, Denji stands back up onto his feet with an audible grumble. A hand rubs the back of his neck before his attention shifts back unto the rift which stood unguarded now.]
Yeah I guess it did and you got rid of all those other stupid ghosts who were in our way too! You saved my ass, Eustace. Now lets get Aki back.
[Stepping closer to the otherworldly tear in existence, Denji grins fiendishly with a rub of his hands together as they drew closer than ever to making his dreams a reality. Now all they would have to do is find a way to pull Aki out from the depths of the afterlife and return him back to the land of the living.]
So uh...Any ideas how to do that exactly?
[Denji had been pretty much winging this entire operation with half hopes, in truth he didn't really think they would get this far so now he had to weigh their options.]
What if I call out to him you think he will hear me?!
[...He can only sigh because he really doesn't think this will work. However, it's clear Denji can't be reasoned with, and if he has to deal with it the hard way, then so be it.]
No.
[Doesn't mean he won't give his honest opinion.]
But if somehow he did enter this world and was in the Farplane, or if these rifts somehow connect to other dead realms of other worlds, then there's no harm in trying. Just be careful to not be pulled in and watch out for any other spirits that may try to escape.
[There was no turning back now after coming this far, Denji dead set on his path to restore Aki from the afterlife by whatever means available. This was the closest chance he's had so far since making it his mission and wouldn’t squander it. Eustace’s less than unenthusiastic response causes the boy to grit his teeth in frustration as he stands upon the precipice of the material planes drawing deathly close to the rift in question. Bringing his hands to each side of his face, Denji shouts out as loud as he's physically capable over the roaring torrents of wind that threaten to sweep him inside the tear itself.]
Yo, Aki!! It’s me Denji I’ve come to save you!!
[Met with nothing but silence but refused to give up quite yet, trying again as he continues his valiant efforts as he admits the guilt which had been weighing him down for quite some time in hopes that might do the trick.]
I didn't want to kill you but you left me no choice!! I'm sorry…I'm fucking sorry alright?! So just come back and things can be like they used to!! I'll make dinner, light your smokes for ya. I'll do whatever the hell you want just come back!!
[Nothing; Looking to the skies above as tears threaten to spill down the side of his cheeks, falling defeatedly to his knees with his head hung low. If a rift between the afterlife and the real world couldn't bring him back then what otherworldly power could? Was he truly destined to never see his friend again after taking his life? Despair plaguing his rational thinking as his hands thread through the dirt below trying to cling to his dream of seeing Aki’s smiling face just one more time.]
[Perhaps another person would have been better for this. Someone who could have cheered him on or gave him better, warm comfort. Eustace only quietly watches as Denji shouts into the rift, and really...even if he doesn't approve, that doesn't mean he can't blame him for trying. Had he been younger, when his own tragedies were still fresh, he probably would have done the same.
So after Denji has fallen, he slowly steps up to him and does offer him any words. After all, what can he say? Cheer up, try again later?
No, those are false hopes and only works if said by the right person—and he's not that. Instead, Eustace just reaches down and rests his hand on top of Denji's head, giving him a small but comforting pat.]
[Despite his initial intentions to seek out the cracks within the Farplane to resurrect one of his closest friends back home, Denji's first foray into the Uncharted was less than successful. If it hadn't been for Eustace at his side the idiotic boy could very well have succumbed to the ill boded effects of too much time spent within this realm and met his own untimely demise. Thankfully his mentor figure was wise enough to pull them back from the brink of death, scolding him for being so brash and greedy desires. After a stern talking to making the unhinged teenager realize these cracks were not one in the same as the rifts which brought them here thought it only best to aid those who wished to close these problematic tears in reality.
Having failed to achieve his original object quite miserably, Denji returned to the Farplane under the pretenses that he would seek out the cracks and destroy them by whatever means necessary. At first he planned to go it alone but happened along Tifa in Respite Reef where newcomers first washed up here, wishing to join him in the endeavor graciously accepting the offer without batting an eye. He knew she could handle herself in a fight after the pair hunted down some behemoths for giant bones to surprise both Cal and Eustace's puppy Valo as well so they would surely make for a great team here in this unnerving place.
As they carefully advance further into the darkness of the Uncharted depths coming across a bog like biome filled with bubbling tar fields and decrypt trees as far as the eye can see, Denji spots a rather familiar looking Suanni on the horizon.]
Hey...I've seen that thing before...Pretty sure I killed one of those not too long after I first got here to make some bank.
[Almost as though the monster heard him its head shoots up from the nearby black waters it grazed upon, shifting its full attention unto the boy with a menacing glare. Blinking wide in disbelief with a slack jawed expression he looks over to Tifa with a confused look plastered over his face.]
S-Shit...There is no way that is the same one, right!?! It looks super pissed to see me!
[Mm-hm, and Tifa probably heard about what had happened one way or another and had scolded him right and proper for trying something so crazy before they started on their trek—
And really, anyone would have been hard-pressed to convince her to come all the way down here given her fear of ghosts and the more supernatural things, but if it's to keep an eye on Denji as well as keep him out of trouble and harm, she sees that as a good enough cause. She knows that he can be a bit of a magnet for trouble but most of all, she could never forgive herself if she let anything happen to him when she could have been there to prevent it. He is one of her own now, being part of the crew, and so she feels responsible for him in a lot of ways.
Which is why she is right at his side when that Suanni turns its head to look straight at him. Right into his soul. Literally.]
What exactly did you do to it?
[It does look really pissed, and she eyes it carefully as it stomps its feet into the ground.]
[There was most definitely a stern talking to bestowed by his maternal figure of the Avalanche crew, Tifa scolding him something fierce after their mutual friend Eustace spilled the beans. It was probably for the best though considering how determined he was to bring Aki back from the grave though had promised his big brother figure he wouldn't attempt such a foolish endeavor in the Farplane again, opting to seal these infernal cracks that were causing mayhem to both this world and the living.
It seems like it wouldn't be so easy though after their path was bared by the undead Suanni, jagged gashes littering its torso aplenty there was no doubt about it this was the one he butchered some time ago. Rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly, Denji cannot help the hushed bit of laughter with a flash of a toothy grin towards his counterpart.]
Well...I may or may not have sliced it up real good last time I saw it and chopped off one of its legs before killing it.
[It was a pretty gruesome affair which seems like they were in for round two as it roars out furiously in unbridled rage, widening its stance as it looks to engage upon the unhinged teenager. A hand instantly moves to the pull cord which protrudes out his chest with a grit of his teeth, vision narrowing on their newfound enemy at large. Yanking the cord without hesitation, Denji shapeshifts into his devil counterpart which Tifa had seen once before though nonetheless horrifying than the last, blood ripping from his limbs as the chainsaws buzz to life.]
TIME TO GET YOUR ASS HANDED TO YOU AGAIN YOU OVERSIZED CAT FISH BRING IT ON!
[Yeah. There's nothing in this world or any world, even seeing it once before, that could prepare her for the violent transformation that he goes through. Just like the last time, she can only pause to stare in both horror and awe of it. It's impressive, if not a bit terrifying...]
Well, guess we're doing this.
[There's some resignation to her voice, but she lifts her fists anyway in preparation.
And she's not even surprised when the Suanni charges at them, its broken horns lowered as I to pierce them. Tifa dodges out of the way, but before it can reach Denji, she aims a flame at it. The magic lands against its rear, and it whirls around to face her.]
[It hadn't taken long for the creature to rear its ugly head as it barreled towards them with unprecedented speed in its once broken limbs. Denji's chainsaws roaring as he stands at the ready, arms crossed in front of his person looking to parry the ensuing attack. Unlike his counterpart who was far more graceful by comparison, Tifa quick to dodge out of the way from the assault, meanwhile the boy turned devil grits his metallic teeth as he braced for the incoming charge head on.
Thankfully his companion was able to divert the beast's attention before it charged straight first at him with unrelenting mercy, sending out a ball of flame which connects on its ass causing it to shudder violently in rage. Turning its full attention towards her, Denji looks to make use of this opportunity while its thoroughly distracted to land a decisive blow of his own.
Thrusting the weight of his person off his left foot the Chainsaw Devil throws himself forward with all his fury. Leaping high into the sky the hybrid looks to bring down his serrated blades upon the hind legs in hopes of hindering its movements. Unfortunately; The Suanni catches wind of his ploy, lowering its head, raising its hindquarters to strike him with the full extend of its powerful rear legs. Catching him square in the stomach the devil is sent flying through the air to collide with a rocky outcrop. Shaking his bladed head a steam of hot breath cascades out his parted maw, spitting a bit of blood on the ground unceremoniously before yelling out maniacally.]
THAT THE BEST YOU'VE GOT!? AIN'T GONNA GO DOWN THAT EASILY YOU BASTARD!!
[She's too far to do anything about it but watch that hit land on his stomach, and him flying against the rocky walls that surround them. It's a wonder at all that he's managed to recover so quickly—enough to shout at the beast—but she doesn't waste the opening that it's afforded her.
His yelling seems to goad the Suanni, which is not what she hoped for. It rears its head, ignoring her attempts to draw its attention back to her, but it's been angered and provoked enough that it has no interest. It charges at Denji where he lies against the rocks, its broken, jagged horns lowered, ready to strike.
A red streak flies into it, ribbons of fire following her movements as she kicks the horns as hard as she can, sending it reeling sideways, giving her a moment to check on him while it tries to recover.]
[If it wasn't for Tifa's abrupt interruption from the Suanni's advance on Denji who knows what might have happened, landing the direct hit to knock the monster off its trajectory sending it tumbling onto its side. She makes short order of closing the gap between them to kneel beside him, the Chainsaw Devil looking towards his counterpart with a nod his weaponized head in affirmation.]
YEAH I'M GOOD!! NOW LETS PUT THIS SHIT HEEL BACK IN ITS GRAVE, HUH!?
[Quickly rising back onto his feet, Denji's chainsaws roar to life once more as he takes a step away from his counterpart to strike a heroic pose. Another burst of chaotic laughter erupts from the hybrid, glaring down their enemy as it shakes off the blow dealt by Tifa's impressive kick.]
[That will be all the time they get before the Suanni recovers, and oh, is it angry now. It kicks its hind legs behind it, stamps its front ones on the ground, and with a roll of its head and a show of its cracked antlers, it charges at them.
[Every so often Denji had some good ideas in the heat of the moment, quick thinking when the going got tough and was hopelessly out of other options. The rage in the Suanni's eyes are palpable, glaring the pair down as it rushes towards them with unprecedented speed. Kneeling down to the ground with his head lowered as to make sure he does not rip Tifa to sunder the boy shouts out for her to jump aboard.]
ALRIGHTY JUMP ON!!
[When she happily obliges stepping on him, Denji quickly rises to his feet when she pushes off with her full weight, hoisting her high in the sky. At that exact moment the Chainsaw Devil presses forward in turn, going low just as planned to enact a precision strike in unison with his counterpart. If his plan goes accordingly their joint attack will cause the beast to become disoriented, having to make a difficult choice but by that point would be too late.]
[Here's something she never thought she'd do. With the Suanni charging at them, she has no time to even think twice about it. She leaps up onto Denji and within seconds, she's launched into the air. The movement confuses the Suanni, and it reels back suddenly, its horns swinging about, nearly missing Tifa as she falls back down.
She lands on its back, her hands grabbing hold of its horns and pulling them back as hard and as fast as she can, both to try and get them under control, and to stop them from slamming point-first into Denji.]
[With Tifa a top the creature grabbing hold of its broken horns to properly distract its attention away from him, Denji simultaneously moves below according to plan. He may not be the sharpest tool in the shed but when push came to shove the boy had his fair share of bright ideas especially when provoked by near death experience. With his chainsaw appendages stretched out wide at each side the serrated blades strike true at the front legs of the Suanni causing the weight of its body to buckle underneath itself.]
[Tifa holds on tight when those chainsaws cut right through the front legs. The beast bucks under her before it falls forward, all of its weight tumbling to the ground. It nearly topples over from its momentum, sending itself careening face first into the dirt, but before it can...
She uses her grip on the horns to flip it over, suplexing the Suanni over her body, using her feet to kick it up into the air, leaving it vulnerable for Denji to finish it off and her safe on the ground, away from his chainsaws.]
[How the Hell Tifa was able to flip such a large beast with such finesse was beyond him and would be a topic of discussion for another time but right now his efforts were fixated on putting this Suanni in it's grave...again. With his counterpart safely out of harms way, Denji rushed forward using all of his momentum to leap high into the sky chasing after the disoriented creature.]
THIS TIME YOU STAY DEAD!!
[Elongated tongue draped out the side of his mouth baring razor sharp teeth with a loud roar, chainsaws striking the fleshy underbelly to split it down the middle. Writhing out in agonizing pain the beast's limbs flail out before falling limp at its side to hit the ground with a thunderous thud. Landing on his feet next to the creature the hybrid moves to the seemingly lifeless corpse firmly kicking its side to make sure the deed was done.]
SERVES YA RIGHT.
[With the imminent threat of danger nullified, Denji slowly begins to shift back to his human counterpart, metallic appendages dripping off his limbs in thick globs of mud until standing before Tifa as if nothing had happened with a wide grin plastered over his face.]
[It's still... a sight to behold, even now. Not that it comes as a surprise to Tifa anymore, but watching Denji tear that thing apart is not something that she would have expected to see. But desperate times call for desperate measures. How does one kill something that is already dead? And it would seem this creature had been stuck in that miserable place, angry and vengeful for a long time. While she feels a little bad for such a gruesome death, she also feels relieved, and she'll tell herself that they've just put it out of its misery.
With the chainsaws gone, Tifa approaches, wiping away some of the blood that had splattered on her cheeks throughout the entire ordeal. There would be more, to be sure...]
So, was that easier or harder than the first time?
[Tifa wasn't the only one who could use a good shower right about now as the boy stood there practically covered from head to toe in the bloodshed of their fallen adversary. This was nothing new to him though just another day on the job back home as far as he was concerned. Turning his attention towards his companion in arms when she puts forth the question, Denji moves a hand to frame his chin quizzically humming to himself deep in though. Eventually a coy grin forms over his lips with an unabashed burst of laughter erupts out finally giving her an answer.]
Honestly? I'd say it was a little easier this time around! You sure can kick some mean ass, Tifa!
[With the beast out of the way they could continue onwards to the rift which laid dormant just a little bit further ahead in hopes of closing it, bringing a swift end to the needless suffering of both the living world and the dead here in the Farplane.]
[Wiping a bit of blood from his face with the rolled up sleeve of his dress shirt, Denji grins wide towards his partner in crime, curling his hands tightly into fists and playfully jabbing the air like his potential sensei.]
That would be super wicked!! I'd love to learn how to kick ass and take names like that without having to turn into Chainsaw man all the time even if it is badass.
[Looking out to the horizon the teenager points towards the rift to which they had initially came to close with a renewed burst of energy. They had still had a mission to accomplish after all and this time he wouldn't be foolhardy enough to think he might be able to bring his friend back from beyond the grave despite its ties to the afterlife. He learned the hard way that it wasn't possible and suffered enough anguish in the defeat to try for a round two.]
Alright so whatcha say we close this rift and get the hell outta here, huh?!
[Always good to know how to land a punch when you need to. But she gives a nod.]
Yeah. I'm about ready to get out of here, too.
[So, with a pat on his shoulder, Tifa lets him lead the way to the rift that they work together with their magic to close. It takes a bit of effort, but that's what they're here for, isn't it? And with that done, it's probably better that they had back for some rest.]
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Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire - Jill Warrick
Taking this into consideration they decided to post up at one of the few remaining barns which that had been targeted beforehand but the owner had caught them in the knick of time before they had the chance to go through with the act which prompted them to believe they could return the following night. As nightfall loomed on the horizon with the setting of the sun, Denji and Jill hide themselves close behind a large hay bale in the open field. Looking towards his counterpart with a heavy sigh unceremoniously plopped down on the ground the boy yawns out loudly with a stretch of his arms over his head.]
Damn where are these guys I'm gettin' super bored. They gotta be here soon, right?
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It's quite uncomfortable behind this hay, but Jill holds in any complaints of how a piece of hay has gotten into her boot and is determined to make itself known against all odds. She can deal with it later, not now when Denji's attention seems to be waning with his own complaint.]
Most likely, they're going to wait until it's darker. They wouldn't want the daylight catching them in the act.
[Which has her wondering how much longer until the sun is finally done setting. She doesn't care to camp out here all night on a stakeout, but whatever needs to be done will be done.]
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Yeah...Guess you're right. Man...I should have brought some snacks or something I'm getting hungry again.
[Stomach rumbling as he rubs the back of his neck awkwardly, a cheeky grin quickly following soon afterwards. As they continue to bide their time waiting until the sun finally sets, Denji plucks straw from the hay bale one by one. Not long after the sky was clouded in darkness the sight of torch light could be seen cresting over the nearby hill towards them causing him to perk up at attention nudging his counterpart's arm gently before pointing it out.]
Look over there seems like they are finally here. Time to kick some ass, eh?
Fleeting Dreams - Eustace
He vowed to do anything and everything within his power to bring the other back with the power of the rifts so when the opportunity arose for the teenager to venture into the Farplane with these 'cracks' seized it without a seconds hesitation. Sure they may not have been one in the same as the rifts which brought them here but if they could bleed souls from this world into the living there had to be some similarities. Needless to say he reached out to Eustace in hopes of his trusted partner in crime and one of his closest confidants to join him after having promised to aid him in this matter should the chance ever emerge.
As they cautiously trek through the Uncharted, a dismal wasteland filled with darkness and dread at every corner, Denji's eyes dart around the general vicinity with a pensive glare, teeth grinding nervously as they descend further into the bowels of the abyss. They had to be getting close to one of these supposed cracks that were rumored to be lurking in the farthest reaches of this existence by now, looking over to Eustace with a nudge of his elbow against his counterpart's arm.]
This place gives me the creeps...You have any idea what these cracks are supposed to look like anyways, Eustace?
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And who knows... Maybe there is something to these cracks that could have some semblance to the rifts that connect them between worlds. Or a dead soul could end up here instead of returned alive.]
If it's anything like how rifts from the Underworld in my world, then they will look fairly obvious and out place. Like a hole or tear through the space and releasing excess energy.
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Standing in what appeared to be an ominous bog of sorts filled with bubbling black tar pits and decrypt trees void of life as far as the eye can see, Denji's gaze spots a rather peculiar sight as they crest over a particularly hilly landscape. A large gash streaked through the pale skies illuminating the nearby area with an iridescent glow. Pointing towards the spectacle at large the boy's expression turned to one of shock and awe, gasping aloud as his vision narrows in on their proposed target.]
Sorta like that!?
[A painfully obvious question as the teenager begins to bolt towards the tear in reality but quickly coming to a halt upon drawing closer. Energy thirsting ghost like entities littered the general vicinity causing him to grit his teeth in anger and frustration.]
Shit...These jerks are right in our way. But that's not gonna stop me when we are so close now damn it!
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Hold on. What do you want to do with rift? You know we have to seal them to prevent those souls from escaping.
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Coming to a halt in his haste the teenager looks over his shoulder back towards his companion at the question, determination stricken over his features as his brows furrow, hands tightening into fists as he ushered out his conviction.]
I made a promise remember?! I'm gonna use this rift to bring Aki back to life and these stupid ass ghosts aren't gonna to stop me!
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Even if they somehow could connect to our worlds, how would you do it? Just shout at it?
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I'm gonna rush the damn thing and pull his soul right outta hell where he doesn't belong and bring him here and there's nothing you can do to stop me, Eustace!
[Pushing off with the weight of his left leg, Denji propels himself towards the rift without fear of repercussion. Unfortunately the energy sapping ghosts quickly shift their attention towards him, surging forward to close the gap between themselves until one converges with his person. Halting dead in his tracks, an ominous yellow glow forms over his eyes, falling to his knees as a cry out in agonizing pain bursts from deep in his chest echoing out around them. Not soon after he slowly rises back to his feet, a uncharacteristic smirk splayed over his lips as if he was being controlled by some otherworldly force.]
Yes...I'll bring Aki back...If I have to sacrifice myself I'll do it...Whatever it takes!
[His voice low, reverberating, certainly not sounding his own as Denji looks onward, slowly walking closer to the world's edge drawing ever closer to the rift which in his addled state of being could bring his companion back to him so long as he made the necessary offering.]
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[He runs after trying to stop him, but that idiot had to just rush into literal hell. And while he tries to clear out some of those ghosts, the numbers were too many and Denji was moving too fast to keep that one from merging.
Clicking his tongue, there is no hesitation as Eustace aims Flamek and fires first right at Denji, the output lowered so that the lightning strong enough to at least momentarily stun him so that he can close that distance between them.
At least that's one benefit of a gun like his—he has the reach.]
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I'll do it- You can fuckin' have me if you want just give him bac- Gawh!
[Hands thrown high in the sky as the hybrid is blasted unceremoniously with a bolt of lightning, surging through the entirety of his body as his knees buckle falling flat onto his face. A loud cry out in pain echoes through the darkness as he writhes on the ground, rendered immobile as Eustace rushes to his side.]
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Get out.
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Ugh- What the shit happened...
[Denji's memory a little fuzzy as he tries best to recollect what the fuck had just happened, a hand moving to his chest wincing a little bit as he brushed over the spot where Eustace had zapped him. Eyes blink wide before shooting up instantaneously to sit upright, scratching at his chest as a strange tingling sensation plagues his torso.]
Yo...Did you fricken shoot me dude?!
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It got the ghost out.
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Yeah I guess it did and you got rid of all those other stupid ghosts who were in our way too! You saved my ass, Eustace. Now lets get Aki back.
[Stepping closer to the otherworldly tear in existence, Denji grins fiendishly with a rub of his hands together as they drew closer than ever to making his dreams a reality. Now all they would have to do is find a way to pull Aki out from the depths of the afterlife and return him back to the land of the living.]
So uh...Any ideas how to do that exactly?
[Denji had been pretty much winging this entire operation with half hopes, in truth he didn't really think they would get this far so now he had to weigh their options.]
What if I call out to him you think he will hear me?!
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No.
[Doesn't mean he won't give his honest opinion.]
But if somehow he did enter this world and was in the Farplane, or if these rifts somehow connect to other dead realms of other worlds, then there's no harm in trying. Just be careful to not be pulled in and watch out for any other spirits that may try to escape.
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Yo, Aki!! It’s me Denji I’ve come to save you!!
[Met with nothing but silence but refused to give up quite yet, trying again as he continues his valiant efforts as he admits the guilt which had been weighing him down for quite some time in hopes that might do the trick.]
I didn't want to kill you but you left me no choice!! I'm sorry…I'm fucking sorry alright?! So just come back and things can be like they used to!! I'll make dinner, light your smokes for ya. I'll do whatever the hell you want just come back!!
[Nothing; Looking to the skies above as tears threaten to spill down the side of his cheeks, falling defeatedly to his knees with his head hung low. If a rift between the afterlife and the real world couldn't bring him back then what otherworldly power could? Was he truly destined to never see his friend again after taking his life? Despair plaguing his rational thinking as his hands thread through the dirt below trying to cling to his dream of seeing Aki’s smiling face just one more time.]
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So after Denji has fallen, he slowly steps up to him and does offer him any words. After all, what can he say? Cheer up, try again later?
No, those are false hopes and only works if said by the right person—and he's not that. Instead, Eustace just reaches down and rests his hand on top of Denji's head, giving him a small but comforting pat.]
We Meet Again - Tifa Lockhart
Having failed to achieve his original object quite miserably, Denji returned to the Farplane under the pretenses that he would seek out the cracks and destroy them by whatever means necessary. At first he planned to go it alone but happened along Tifa in Respite Reef where newcomers first washed up here, wishing to join him in the endeavor graciously accepting the offer without batting an eye. He knew she could handle herself in a fight after the pair hunted down some behemoths for giant bones to surprise both Cal and Eustace's puppy Valo as well so they would surely make for a great team here in this unnerving place.
As they carefully advance further into the darkness of the Uncharted depths coming across a bog like biome filled with bubbling tar fields and decrypt trees as far as the eye can see, Denji spots a rather familiar looking Suanni on the horizon.]
Hey...I've seen that thing before...Pretty sure I killed one of those not too long after I first got here to make some bank.
[Almost as though the monster heard him its head shoots up from the nearby black waters it grazed upon, shifting its full attention unto the boy with a menacing glare. Blinking wide in disbelief with a slack jawed expression he looks over to Tifa with a confused look plastered over his face.]
S-Shit...There is no way that is the same one, right!?! It looks super pissed to see me!
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And really, anyone would have been hard-pressed to convince her to come all the way down here given her fear of ghosts and the more supernatural things, but if it's to keep an eye on Denji as well as keep him out of trouble and harm, she sees that as a good enough cause. She knows that he can be a bit of a magnet for trouble but most of all, she could never forgive herself if she let anything happen to him when she could have been there to prevent it. He is one of her own now, being part of the crew, and so she feels responsible for him in a lot of ways.
Which is why she is right at his side when that Suanni turns its head to look straight at him. Right into his soul. Literally.]
What exactly did you do to it?
[It does look really pissed, and she eyes it carefully as it stomps its feet into the ground.]
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It seems like it wouldn't be so easy though after their path was bared by the undead Suanni, jagged gashes littering its torso aplenty there was no doubt about it this was the one he butchered some time ago. Rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly, Denji cannot help the hushed bit of laughter with a flash of a toothy grin towards his counterpart.]
Well...I may or may not have sliced it up real good last time I saw it and chopped off one of its legs before killing it.
[It was a pretty gruesome affair which seems like they were in for round two as it roars out furiously in unbridled rage, widening its stance as it looks to engage upon the unhinged teenager. A hand instantly moves to the pull cord which protrudes out his chest with a grit of his teeth, vision narrowing on their newfound enemy at large. Yanking the cord without hesitation, Denji shapeshifts into his devil counterpart which Tifa had seen once before though nonetheless horrifying than the last, blood ripping from his limbs as the chainsaws buzz to life.]
TIME TO GET YOUR ASS HANDED TO YOU AGAIN YOU OVERSIZED CAT FISH BRING IT ON!
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Well, guess we're doing this.
[There's some resignation to her voice, but she lifts her fists anyway in preparation.
And she's not even surprised when the Suanni charges at them, its broken horns lowered as I to pierce them. Tifa dodges out of the way, but before it can reach Denji, she aims a flame at it. The magic lands against its rear, and it whirls around to face her.]
Over here, big guy!
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Thankfully his companion was able to divert the beast's attention before it charged straight first at him with unrelenting mercy, sending out a ball of flame which connects on its ass causing it to shudder violently in rage. Turning its full attention towards her, Denji looks to make use of this opportunity while its thoroughly distracted to land a decisive blow of his own.
Thrusting the weight of his person off his left foot the Chainsaw Devil throws himself forward with all his fury. Leaping high into the sky the hybrid looks to bring down his serrated blades upon the hind legs in hopes of hindering its movements. Unfortunately; The Suanni catches wind of his ploy, lowering its head, raising its hindquarters to strike him with the full extend of its powerful rear legs. Catching him square in the stomach the devil is sent flying through the air to collide with a rocky outcrop. Shaking his bladed head a steam of hot breath cascades out his parted maw, spitting a bit of blood on the ground unceremoniously before yelling out maniacally.]
THAT THE BEST YOU'VE GOT!? AIN'T GONNA GO DOWN THAT EASILY YOU BASTARD!!
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[She's too far to do anything about it but watch that hit land on his stomach, and him flying against the rocky walls that surround them. It's a wonder at all that he's managed to recover so quickly—enough to shout at the beast—but she doesn't waste the opening that it's afforded her.
His yelling seems to goad the Suanni, which is not what she hoped for. It rears its head, ignoring her attempts to draw its attention back to her, but it's been angered and provoked enough that it has no interest. It charges at Denji where he lies against the rocks, its broken, jagged horns lowered, ready to strike.
A red streak flies into it, ribbons of fire following her movements as she kicks the horns as hard as she can, sending it reeling sideways, giving her a moment to check on him while it tries to recover.]
You okay?
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YEAH I'M GOOD!! NOW LETS PUT THIS SHIT HEEL BACK IN ITS GRAVE, HUH!?
[Quickly rising back onto his feet, Denji's chainsaws roar to life once more as he takes a step away from his counterpart to strike a heroic pose. Another burst of chaotic laughter erupts from the hybrid, glaring down their enemy as it shakes off the blow dealt by Tifa's impressive kick.]
YOU GO HIGH AND I'LL GO LOW, GOT IT!?
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[That will be all the time they get before the Suanni recovers, and oh, is it angry now. It kicks its hind legs behind it, stamps its front ones on the ground, and with a roll of its head and a show of its cracked antlers, it charges at them.
Quickly, Tifa calls to Denji.]
Gimme a lift.
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ALRIGHTY JUMP ON!!
[When she happily obliges stepping on him, Denji quickly rises to his feet when she pushes off with her full weight, hoisting her high in the sky. At that exact moment the Chainsaw Devil presses forward in turn, going low just as planned to enact a precision strike in unison with his counterpart. If his plan goes accordingly their joint attack will cause the beast to become disoriented, having to make a difficult choice but by that point would be too late.]
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She lands on its back, her hands grabbing hold of its horns and pulling them back as hard and as fast as she can, both to try and get them under control, and to stop them from slamming point-first into Denji.]
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ALL OR NOTHING NOW LETS KILL THIS BASTARD!!
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She uses her grip on the horns to flip it over, suplexing the Suanni over her body, using her feet to kick it up into the air, leaving it vulnerable for Denji to finish it off and her safe on the ground, away from his chainsaws.]
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THIS TIME YOU STAY DEAD!!
[Elongated tongue draped out the side of his mouth baring razor sharp teeth with a loud roar, chainsaws striking the fleshy underbelly to split it down the middle. Writhing out in agonizing pain the beast's limbs flail out before falling limp at its side to hit the ground with a thunderous thud. Landing on his feet next to the creature the hybrid moves to the seemingly lifeless corpse firmly kicking its side to make sure the deed was done.]
SERVES YA RIGHT.
[With the imminent threat of danger nullified, Denji slowly begins to shift back to his human counterpart, metallic appendages dripping off his limbs in thick globs of mud until standing before Tifa as if nothing had happened with a wide grin plastered over his face.]
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With the chainsaws gone, Tifa approaches, wiping away some of the blood that had splattered on her cheeks throughout the entire ordeal. There would be more, to be sure...]
So, was that easier or harder than the first time?
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Honestly? I'd say it was a little easier this time around! You sure can kick some mean ass, Tifa!
[With the beast out of the way they could continue onwards to the rift which laid dormant just a little bit further ahead in hopes of closing it, bringing a swift end to the needless suffering of both the living world and the dead here in the Farplane.]
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Just a few old tricks of mine. I could teach 'em to you, if you want.
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That would be super wicked!! I'd love to learn how to kick ass and take names like that without having to turn into Chainsaw man all the time even if it is badass.
[Looking out to the horizon the teenager points towards the rift to which they had initially came to close with a renewed burst of energy. They had still had a mission to accomplish after all and this time he wouldn't be foolhardy enough to think he might be able to bring his friend back from beyond the grave despite its ties to the afterlife. He learned the hard way that it wasn't possible and suffered enough anguish in the defeat to try for a round two.]
Alright so whatcha say we close this rift and get the hell outta here, huh?!
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Yeah. I'm about ready to get out of here, too.
[So, with a pat on his shoulder, Tifa lets him lead the way to the rift that they work together with their magic to close. It takes a bit of effort, but that's what they're here for, isn't it? And with that done, it's probably better that they had back for some rest.]