/simu/ - Simulacrum

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File: 1695255634658-0.jpeg (1.23 MB, 2578x1503, Sand - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695255634658-1.png (1.23 MB, 1280x720, Blast - 4.png)

File: 1695255634658-2.jpg (352.51 KB, 800x1236, Shirai - 2.jpg)

File: 1695255634658-3.png (28.62 KB, 300x300, Replicant Wheel Eye.png)

File: 1695255634658-4.jpeg (853.83 KB, 1920x2716, Siphon - 5.jpeg)

 No.2441

>Date: July 26th, 2017
>Time: 6:30 AM [ Relative]
>Location: North African Desert

>Large plumes of sand jettison up into the air - as a surge of glowing red energy beams ravage the deserts below. Large scorch marks slowly spread across the barren desert, with the smell of burning sand filling the air.

>The light of the Sun continues to radiate onto the large expanse, as a figure in white clothing continues quickly moving from hill to hill.

{["I cannot let him reach me! Who is this interloper anyway?!"]}

>Continuing his skilled and graceful movement across the sand dunes, the vigilante known as Shirai attempts to shake off his pursuer. Barreling down through more sand dunes, he then spins in place - standing and looking around.

"…….."

>Shirai's eyes then dilate behind his mask and hood - as he begins to manifest a supernatural black-red eye pattern. His eyes now begin moving rapidly, as he tries to get a view of his pursuer.

"……………."

>More silence passes, as Shirai's hand slowly reaches for one of his two customized swords - holstered to a harness on his back.

["……….There you are!"]

>Shirai then spins around - moving at rapid speeds and with an almost preternatural sense of precognition. As he does so, he unholsters his sword from its strap - and slices through the form of his pursuer.

["Got you!"]

>Shirai is quick to loose his boastful demeanor however, as the pursuer then begins to regenerate.

["What the- How?!"]

>Jumping backwards, Shirai lands on the ground and readies his sword once more. As he assumes a dueling stance, he watches as the strange figure before him continues to heal itself rapidly.

["What are you?!"]

>He shouts out loud, in Japanese. Clearly bewildered, Shirai prepares for retaliation from the figure.

 No.2442

File: 1695256346424-0.jpeg (1.23 MB, 2578x1503, Sand - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695256346424-1.jpg (130.02 KB, 600x776, Shirai - 3.jpg)

File: 1695256346424-2.gif (2.54 MB, 794x1123, Sword.gif)

File: 1695256346424-3.jpeg (327.92 KB, 638x825, Siphon - 2.jpeg)

>>2441
>The figure looks down at its open wound - seeing that its chest has been sliced cleanly in two. However, bubbles of white mass begin to form rapidly around the cut area - as the figure begins to repair its severed halves.

["Supernatural in nature. Although I feared as much, the confirmation is still reassuring.']

>Shirai says, placing one sword on the ground - and burying it into the sand. As he looks up at the figure before him, he then states:

["I do not know who you are - but I will not allow you to stain my honor. You will not be allowed a victory against me!"]

>Shirai then slowly closes his hands into fists and takes a deep breath. Waiting for a minute.

>The mysterious figure, with pale white skin, a black and white robe, as well as a unique white mask - continues to stare at Shirai without giving a single hint of emotion.

{["This creature managed to catch me off guard back home. Had I not had the quick thinking to move the battle here. Halfway across the world….It matters not."]}

>The figure then rushes towards Shirai all of a sudden - demonstrating immense speed. As it does so, Shirai exhales - releasing a massive burst of energy from his body which causes a ripple effect.

{["For I will vanquish you, here and now - monster!"]}

>Shirai then moves forward - as the energy wave momentarily stunned the creature. Now moving forward with equivalent speed, the two figures begin barreling down the sand dunes - punching and kicking, trading strikes and blocks as the force of the attacks shake the foundation of the desert.

>Holding both of his hands up in order to block a punch from the creature, Shirai is knocked back a few feet as he then says:

["Impudent beast! You are dealing with a Hoyokazi!"]

>Shirai then redistributes his weight - giving a front flip that narrowly avoids a strike from the monster, as it lunges towards him.

"………!!!!!"

>The beast then snarls in surprise as it reacts to Shirai's movements - the ninja reorienting himself once again in the air, while drawing the second of his swords from its sheathe.

["To the earth, you return!"]

>Slicing at the monster from above - Shirai delivers a clean cut to its back - striking down its spinal cord and rupturing it as supernatural blue blood spills out from the figure.

>The monster then screams out in pain, as Shirai lands back on the ground. Inspecting his swords for a moment, Shirai confirms their supernatural glow of white light.

["If the material will not disrupt your body - then the immaterial must instead."]

>Spinning the katana blade in his hand rather effortlessly, Shirai then says:

["Chakra seems to work on you. That alone is enough."]

>Shirai then points the Chakra infused katana blade at the monster - daring it to fight.

 No.2443

File: 1695257008844-0.jpg (352.51 KB, 800x1236, Shirai - 2.jpg)

File: 1695257008844-1.gif (1005.04 KB, 490x320, Flight - 4.gif)

File: 1695257008844-2.gif (2.54 MB, 794x1123, Sword.gif)

File: 1695257008844-3.png (1.23 MB, 1280x720, Blast - 4.png)

File: 1695257008844-4.jpeg (916.14 KB, 1920x2560, Siphon - 4.jpeg)

>>2442
>The creature then screams loudly once more - generating an ear-piercing scream so loud and so fierce, that it completely pressurizes the sand around itself and Shirai.

>The sheer pressure of the scream forces Shirai to instinctively protect himself, generating a passive Chakra field around his body to absorb the damage.

{["Gyah! I may have spoken too soon…."]}

>Regaining his bearings, Shirai then focuses on the monster once more - noticing the sand around him slowly converting into spiked shards of glass.

["Such power….One would take you for a God, of sorts."]

>Shirai then narrows his eyes behind his mask as he readies his sword once more.

["However, I have seen stronger. Levels of power beyond your own. That makes you vulnerable in this situation."]

>More bright white light begins to surge around Shirai's katana blade, as he readies himself.

["Weak, in the face of my own power."]

>The monster then screams once more, as it begins to fire more and more energy blasts. A wave of red energy beams begins to blow apart more portions of this remote desert area. The damage continues to accumulate, as Shirai quickly moves to avoid the blasts.

>Moving at speeds imperceptible to the average human being, and even the most nimble Meta-Human, Shirai continues his evasive maneuvers as he readies himself for his counter attack.

{["I cannot stay within its range for too long. That energy field around it…..It draws strength from me."]}

>Shirai then avoids another blast of energy - back flipping into the air as he uses his inherent Chakra abilities to "press" off of thin air like a platform - launching himself forward like a missile.

{"A single, decisive blow. That is what is necessary."}

>The silver clad ninja then continues pinballing through the air - in constant richochet blasts, aiming himself directly towards the figure's head.

{["Now!"]}

>Shirai then proceeds to cut through the monster's head, using the full extent of his Chakra abilities to condense his energy into a single focal point - his blade. After doing so, Shirai lands on the ground behind the monster - watching as its head goes flying.

 No.2444

File: 1695257527796-0.jpg (130.02 KB, 600x776, Shirai - 3.jpg)

File: 1695257527796-1.jpg (267.41 KB, 1000x805, Blood.jpg)

File: 1695257527796-2.jpeg (239.29 KB, 1920x1080, Siphon.jpeg)

>>2443
>The monster's head then lands a few dozen feet away from the rest of its body. As it does so, the monster's body then collapses to the ground.

>Sheathing his sword, Shirai then holds out his hand - as his other sword remotely flies to his grasp. Holstering the other sword, he then begins to slowly walk towards the monster's decapitated head.

>As he approaches the monster's head, Shirai then stands before it and asks, in a blunt tone of voice:

["Who are you? Speak, demon."]

>Only half expecting an answer, Shirai is surprised as the monster's head slowly turns itself towards him, stating in an inhuman cadence:

"Siphon."

>Startled, Shirai then immediately responds:

["Infernal demon! You seemingly understand my language as well."]

>Shaking himself out of his surprise, Shirai then kneels down before the head and demands:

["Why have you sought me out? What quarrel would I ever have with a demonic fiend such as yourself?"]

>The decapitated masked head stares at Shirai for a moment, before laughing hysterically. Taken aback by the response, Shirai watches as the monster states:

"Not. My. Quarrel."

>Before Shirai can respond, he then feels a sudden pain in his back. Stunned, Shirai's mind races as he then notices a unique black blade stabbing through his chest.

["GYARRGH! What treachery….is…this…."]

>As blood begins to seep from his chest, Shirai slowly turns around to see the decapitated body of the monster - stabbing him in the back with a black sword.

>Siphon's head then continues to laugh, as it states:

"Penance. Will. Be. Paid."

>The sword then tightens in Siphon's hand, as the weapon twists itself further into Shirai's chest.

"Revenge. Will. Be. Had!"

>Coughing up blood, Shirai then states:

["…..On whose….behalf?!"]

>Siphon's body then keeps the blade stabbed in Shirai's chest as it lets go of the weapon. Now walking over to its decapitated head - it picks it up and sticks it back on its neck.

>Fully restored, Siphon then slowly lowers its hands and turns its attention to Shirai, stating:

"My. Master. Your. Victim."

 No.2445

File: 1695257941758-0.jpg (352.51 KB, 800x1236, Shirai - 2.jpg)

File: 1695257941758-1.gif (943.47 KB, 320x320, Energy - 2.gif)

File: 1695257941758-2.jpeg (327.92 KB, 638x825, Siphon - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695257941758-3.gif (990.51 KB, 500x285, Sword Fight.gif)

>>2444
>Shirai's eyes widen as his mind begins racing.

{["Victim?! What in the heavens is this monster referring to?! I have not harmed anyone!"]}

>In that moment, Shirai's Chakra abilities begin kicking in. His extra reserves of Chakra begin rapidly healing his body and supplying him strength - enough strength to pull the sword out from his body.

>As he screams in pain, Shirai can feel both his body and the fabric of his outfits slowly begin to heal. The supernatural nature of his Chakra energies beginning to mend both sets of damage.

>Siphon stares - looking impressed for a moment. It then says:

"As. Determined. Now. As. You. Were. When. You. Nearly. Took. My. Master's. Life."

>Holding out a hand - Siphon immediately recalls its supernatural black blade to its hand, gripping it tightly as it states:

"You. Will. Not. Take. Them. Again!"

>Siphon then rushes towards Shirai, as the latter immediately responds - his instinctual swordplay coming to the front of his mind as he begins reflexively parrying and blocking strikes from his supernatural opponent.

["Whatever nonsense you have chosen to believe. It will not persist when I am finished with you!"]

>Shirai and Siphon then continue fighting throughout the sands of the desert - moving at massively incomprehensible speeds. Various red and blue energy and Chakra blasts are sent across the dunes - as the two figures trade blows, seemingly equally matched.

 No.2446

File: 1695258738842-0.jpg (103.85 KB, 335x503, Shirai.jpg)

File: 1695258738842-1.png (28.62 KB, 300x300, Replicant Wheel Eye.png)

File: 1695258738842-2.gif (1.98 MB, 500x282, Sword - 2.gif)

File: 1695258738842-3.jpeg (239.29 KB, 1920x1080, Siphon.jpeg)

>>2445
>Shirai continues his defense against the monster's onslaught of strikes - noticing the growing strength and ferocity of their attacks.

{["This speed! This precision! It is almost unfathomable?! How can one such as this….decrepit monster….hold so much power? I must neutralize it - now!"]}

>Shirai then immediately lowers his sword and makes a set of quick hand signs - a mechanism to more accurately distribute and structure his latent energy.

>Immediately, Shirai generates a surge of supernatural flame that extends rapidly from his own body. The flame begins to grow larger and brighter - clearly not comparable to normal fire and flames.

>Siphon is caught in the blast of fire - and is actually damaged. It's unnaturally pale body begins to char rapidly in response to the fire, causing cracks and fissures to form in its body and its mask.

"Your. Chakra. Is. Potent. So. It. Must. Be. Erased."

>The monster then surges forward, rushing to Shirai in an attempt to attack him. Unfortunately for the monster, Shirai has seemingly prepared for its renewed assault.

>In the span of time that the Chakra fire was created and sent forward - Shirai closed his eyes and focused his attention inward. After a few moments, he then opened his eyes again - now brandishing his supernatural eyes once more.

["I implore you to try - demon."]

>Immediately, Shirai's movements are now dramatically enhanced in both speed and accuracy - allowing him to keep pace with the monster as before. Now, Shirai is the one pressing the offensive, as he begins alternating between sword strikes, kicks and a combination of the two.

>Shirai even manages a series of vaulted foot strikes with his sword - connected to his boot with his Chakra energies. The combined assault manages to catch Siphon off guard - slashing him across the chest as Shirai steps back.

["If I cannot destroy you permanently, then I will require assistance."]

>Sighing and breathing internally, Shirai then opens his eyes again, before making a series of rapid hand sighs with his fingers. After doing so, large plumes of white smoke appear around him.

>Confused, Siphon then states:

"What. Trickery. Is. This. Hoyokazi?"

 No.2447

File: 1695259121545-0.jpg (309.95 KB, 640x876, Shirai - 4.jpg)

File: 1695259121545-1.png (1.37 MB, 1916x1080, Ripple Clone.png)

File: 1695259121545-2.png (1.56 MB, 1920x1080, Space-Time - 2.png)

File: 1695259121545-3.jpeg (916.14 KB, 1920x2560, Siphon - 4.jpeg)

>>2446
>Suddenly, dozens of identical clones of Shirai step forward - out of the smoke clouds that he has created.

>Readjusting his position, he then states:

"They are merely a means to remove myself from your focus. While I seek to grab the aid of the one who may be able to vanquish you."

>Immediately, the ripple based clones of Shirai begin rushing forward - identical duplicates with his same level of power and strength.

>As Siphon is immediately caught in the fight between itself and dozens of Shirai clones, the original Shirai sighs once more and mutters to himself:

{["This is not how I had imagined my next visit. Though, it shall have to suffice."]}

>Shirai then makes another hand sign, as he plants it on the ground - causing the fabric of space and time to begin to warp around him. As he begins to leave, he takes one last look at Siphon and says:

["In due time, demon."]

>Shirai is then transported away in a ripple of space-time manipulation, leaving Siphon to continue fighting against the Shirai clones that remained.

"Very. Well. Then. Hoyokazi. I. Will. Await. Your. Return."

>Grabbing his sword, Siphon then continues fighting against the Shirai clones, stating:

"As. The. Transgression. Is. Made. Clear. Then. You. Will. See."

>Slicing through a handful of the Shirai clones, and distorting them into smoke, he then concludes:

"The. Weight. Of. Your. Actions. Of. Your. Failure."

>Siphon then continues the attack, clearly wearing down the remaining Shirai clones with time.

 No.2448

File: 1695259680844-0.jpg (578.39 KB, 800x507, Mansion - 5.jpg)

File: 1695259680845-1.jpg (894.1 KB, 4096x2214, Grayson House - Interior.jpg)

File: 1695259680845-2.jpeg (207.01 KB, 1443x2048, Aiden - 53.jpeg)

File: 1695259680845-3.jpeg (252.66 KB, 1184x2048, Stella.jpeg)

File: 1695259680845-4.jpeg (132.51 KB, 642x1182, Suisei - 2.jpeg)

>>2447
>Location: Sanctuary City, Residential Sector.
>Time: 8:00 AM

>Aiden continues rubbing his eyelids, as he prepares to leave his house. Blinking at his phone, he then notices a message on it.

"….That's new. I didn't expect him to text this number anytime soon."

>Suddenly, a presence comes from behind Aiden, looking over his shoulder.

"What do you mean, anytime soon? Is there something that I should be aware of?"

>Stella says, somewhat annoyed at Aiden, who laughs nervously and says:

"….No. Not really. I was talking about Ryozo."

>Another voice from across the living room then says:

"…..Ryozo Hoyokazi? That buffoon?"

>Suisei then walks out from her own room, adjusting her wrist as she states:

"Please do not tell me that the attack dog of the Hoyokazi family is your acquaintance."

>She says, with a clearly annoyed look on her face. Noticing Aiden's own facial reaction, she then says:

"I know what he did, according to your brother and your sister. That attempt on your life was, and is still unforgivable."

>Aiden lowers his head and sighs, stating:

"…..You know full well what I also nearly did, Suisei."

>Stella immediately recognizes what Aiden is referring to, and begins to protest.

"You can't keep blaming yourself for that, Aiden! You were trying to protect me-"

>Aiden holds up his hand, pointing a finger at Stella, stating:

"I nearly killed Ceridwen. That has no excuse, whatsoever. There is no handwaving that. No reframing that. No justifying that. Ever!"

>Speaking with a raised tone of voice for the first time in a very long time - Aiden causes the entire room to fall silent. Suisei looks away, her eyes narrowing in frustration as she grinds her teeth behind her mouth.

>Stella looks at Aiden with a sad expression on her face, before she then says:

"…..Yet I still forgive you for that, Aiden. You know that I do."

>Stella puts her hand on Aiden's face, as Aiden himself seemingly remains unphased.

"Yeah. I know. I'm sorry, but I had to make it very clear - that I'm not blameless here."

>Pointing at Suisei, Aiden then says:

"That's why I even reached out to Ryozo. Not many people can understand what it feels like to nearly make the biggest mistake of your life. But I can relate to him."

 No.2449

File: 1695260039460-0.jpg (894.1 KB, 4096x2214, Grayson House - Interior.jpg)

File: 1695260039461-1.jpeg (590.08 KB, 2457x3402, Aiden - 41.jpeg)

File: 1695260039461-2.jpeg (153.28 KB, 850x1413, Stella - 3.jpeg)

File: 1695260039461-3.jpeg (140.72 KB, 850x1111, Suisei.jpeg)

File: 1695260039461-4.jpg (103.85 KB, 335x503, Shirai.jpg)

>>2448
>Silence fills the air once more, before Suisei then says:

"….Then at least remind him that he is more than just a simple guard dog for-"

>Suddenly the doorbell rings, as a loud banging can be heard on the front door.

"What-"

"Who-"

>It takes Stella and Suisei a few seconds to even register what's going on. In less time, Aiden has already figured out the situation, and sighs - now walking towards the door.

"Lucky for you then Suisei."

>Raising an eyebrow, Suisei then states, confused:

"What on Earth are you talking about, Aiden?"

>Aiden then stands before the front door, grabbing onto the door knob as he says:

"Why don't you ask remind yourself?"

>Then, Aiden opens the door and catches Shirai's damaged and bloodied body.

>Suisei recoils immediately, in pure shock - as Stella is more unphased, a result of her millennia of combat and fighting experience.

"…Is that him? Ryozo?"

>Aiden nods as he closes the door and sets Ryozo down on a nearby sofa.

>After a few seconds, Aiden watches as Shirai opens his eyes and weakly looks at Aiden from his seat on the sofa.

"……..Grayson……"

>Aiden nods slowly and gives Shirai a weak smile, stating:

"I'm here, man - and I am so sorry that he found you."

>Confused, Shirai then says, weakly.

"S-Siphon?"

>Aiden shakes his head, then says:

"No. Ethan. His boss."

 No.2450

File: 1695260583163-0.jpeg (767.87 KB, 849x1200, Aiden - 49.jpeg)

File: 1695260583163-1.jpg (149.26 KB, 590x300, Mana Particles - 2.jpg)

File: 1695260583163-2.jpeg (314.44 KB, 1242x2048, Stella - 6.jpeg)

File: 1695260583163-3.jpeg (132.51 KB, 642x1182, Suisei - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695260583163-4.jpeg (160.01 KB, 850x1377, Ryozo - 2.jpeg)

>>2449
>As Aiden places a hand on Shirai's body, he then whispers a brief incantation.

>Suddenly, a series of bright multi-colored lights spontaneously appear around Shirai - enveloping his body and growing brighter in radiance and luminosity.

>After a few moments, Shirai's body is entirely healed - and his standard attire as Ryozo takes form instead.

"What…."

>Speaking in English instead of his native Japanese, Ryozo then sits upward and looks at his hands - seeing his body restored, good as new.

"Did you…use magic?"

>Aiden nods slowly as he smiles warmly at Ryozo, stating:

"Stage showbiz and all."

>As Ryozo looks at Aiden for a moment, his vision moves elsewhere, saying:

"…I am grateful for that. Thank you-"

>Noticing Suisei in the middle of the room, Ryozo's eyes widen as he immediately stands up and takes a bow before her, stammering:

"M-Miss Yoshimura! I did not anticipate you being a guest! Please forgive my intrusion!"

>Stella looks at Aiden with an awkward expression on her face, as Suisei herself sighs and rolls her eyes.

>Ryozo then takes a moment to think before stating:

"….Wait a minute."

>Looking between Suisei and Aiden, Ryozo then says:

"Why is Miss Yoshimura here….In your house….Early in the….morning….."

>Ryozo then takes another moment or two to put the pieces together, before he then immediately feels the heat leave his body.

"……….."

>He then sits back down - too embarrassed to say anything else.

>Stella shakes herself out of her awkwardness and looks back at Aiden, stating:

"Right, so. You were saying something about the guy's boss right? Ethan?"

>Suisei then nods at Aiden, stating:

"I would appreciate a summary of the situation, dear."

>Ryozo instinctively reacts, giving a kneejerk shout in Aiden's direction.

"….Dear?! Is that her name for you now?!"

 No.2451

File: 1695261305150-0.jpeg (182.33 KB, 891x1482, Aiden - 52.jpeg)

File: 1695261305150-1.jpeg (252.66 KB, 1184x2048, Stella.jpeg)

File: 1695261305150-2.jpeg (140.72 KB, 850x1111, Suisei.jpeg)

File: 1695261305150-3.jpeg (378.76 KB, 2032x3560, Ryozo - 4.jpeg)

>>2450
>Aiden groans as he then points a finger at Suisei, stating:

"First off. Sui, you can't just keep acting like we're married by calling me that. I'm still heavily questioning the reality of this situation."

>He then points at Ryozo, saying:

"As I just told her, no. It is not her name for me. I'll explain all of this later, OK?"

>Ryozo pouts somewhat, looking irritated as he crosses his arms and looks away.

>Turning back towards Stella, Aiden then says:

"Yeah, Ethan. Well….Where do I even start."

>Taking a seat in a nearby chair, Aiden then looks up at Stella and Suisei, stating:

"….How much do you know about Jungian archetypes? Because that'll be the easy part."

————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————
[A few minutes later]

>Aiden then sits in place, looking down at the floor while the revelation kicks in for all three of them.

"……Ethan is…the other half of your mind?"

>Aiden then gives a half-and-half gesture with his hand, stating:

"Remember what you told me the night I almost lost myself, Stella?"

>Stella herself flashes back to that day - and remembers the words she said to Aiden, feeling them echo in her mind with newfound clarity.

{"I don't care what anyone thinks of you! You have your mistakes, but you're trying! That's all that counts! You're trying to be better!"}

>Then out loud, Stella says:

"Yes, Aiden. I do remember those words."

>Her face showing a measure of concern and worry, she then states:

"….What did you do Aiden?"

>Looking back up, Aiden then points back to his snow white hair, stating:

"Simple. I made myself into the man that would be better. I did that - by excising and removing the parts of myself that I couldn't stand."

>Suisei's eyes slowly widen in realization, as she says:

"….So you jettisoned the negative aspects of your psyche from your mind."

>Aiden nods, saying:

"Yep. Packaged them up, and kicked them into the Astral Plane - so that I could forget the idiot that I was."

>Standing back up, Aiden then explains further:

"But naturally being the idiot that I still am - I didn't account for the fact that my mind and my will were both incredibly strong. It may just be a part of my psyche that I kicked out - but it's still my psyche."

>Gesturing to the side with his hand, Aiden then continues:

"So, it stands to reason that the psyche of a reality-warping demigod like me……would…."

>Stella then finishes Aiden's statement:

"Give itself a tangible form and exact out your worst impulses of revenge….."

 No.2452

File: 1695261998667-0.jpeg (94.68 KB, 850x1159, Aiden - 48.jpeg)

File: 1695261998667-1.jpeg (153.28 KB, 850x1413, Stella - 3.jpeg)

File: 1695261998667-2.jpeg (132.51 KB, 642x1182, Suisei - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695261998667-3.jpeg (199.01 KB, 850x1506, Ryozo - 3.jpeg)

File: 1695261998667-4.gif (905.49 KB, 480x360, IT - 4.gif)

>>2451
>Both Suisei and Stella look down at Ryozo on the nearby sofa.

"…..Oh. So that is what the monster meant. Victim."

>Aiden nods, stating:

"A part of me still resented you for doing it. Nearly killing me."

>Ryozo looks down at the floor, stating:

"I can only imagine. As I acted on impulse, and with little regard for the consequences."

>Aiden then looks Ryozo in the eye and says:

"….Your decision pretty much changed the course of my life, whether you realize it or not."

>Looking off into the distance, Aiden then states:

"If you never attacked me, I probably would've taken my time getting to know your cousins. Hiyuki and Kaiyo."

>Aiden then continues:

"If that happened. I likely would've gotten on better terms with them - and likely ended up avoiding the situation where I made the biggest fool of myself in my life."

>Aiden pauses for a second, before stating:

"Hell. I probably would've turned the situation around. Maybe things would've turned out differently between Hiyuki and I. Maybe….."

>Silent for another moment, Aiden then looks away as Stella states:

"Maybe I'd still be nothing more than a lackey to my father - continuing to slave away endlessly between dimensions - until the end of time."

>Suisei then says:

"Maybe you wouldn't have become strong enough to help me and Ryūsei against that supernatural woman either."

>Silent for a moment, Aiden then states:

"As I said. Chaos theory."

>Ryozo is silent for a long moment, before he closes his eyes and says:

"…..I am truly sorry for what I have done, Aiden. I did not mean to…..I could not see….I just…."

>Aiden shakes his head at Ryozo and tells him:

"Doesn't matter. Because I made my own mistakes, like I told you just now. It doesn't matter what happened in the past."

>Standing up, he then says:

"All that matters is whether or not you're willing to face your issues now, right?"

>Aiden says as he gives a soft smile to Stella and Suisei.

>Both of them then walk forward to individually give him a hug.

"Naturally."

"Of course, you complete dolt."

>Aiden then turns to Ryozo and says:

"I'll finish this once and for all. I need to have a chat with myself. I'll go where I need to. Where he expects me to be. Stella will know."

>Aiden then disappears in an instant - not leaving a single trace.

>Turning to Stella, Suisei then states:

"Where is Aiden going?"

>Stella thinks to herself for a long moment, before her eyes widen.

"…..He's going to the place where he remade himself."

 No.2453

File: 1695263085331-0.jpeg (92.65 KB, 800x600, Space.jpeg)

File: 1695263085331-1.jpeg (207.01 KB, 1443x2048, Aiden - 53.jpeg)

File: 1695263085331-2.gif (899.8 KB, 486x273, Blast.gif)

File: 1695263085331-3.jpeg (916.14 KB, 1920x2560, Siphon - 4.jpeg)

File: 1695263085331-4.jpeg (109.55 KB, 850x1213, Ethan - 3.jpeg)

>>2452
>Location: Null Space
>Time: Indeterminate

>As Aiden appears, hovering in the empty aether of the cosmic dimension - he remains hovering in place and silent.

>After a few moments, he feels a presence slowly manifest - dozens of feet away from him. Appearing in a surge of bright red lights, Siphon then manifests, stating:

"Ah. There. You. Are. Master. I-"

>In an instant, a wave of overwhelming force and power surges from Aiden's outstretched palm - lighting up the entirety of the dimension and vaporizing Siphon beyond regeneration.

"I'm not here for you, glorified attack dog."

>Putting his hand back in his jacket pocket, Aiden then calls out:

"Get out here, Ethan. Let's get this over with. Now."

>Then a massive surge of red energy appears - and the form of a seeming clone of Aiden manifests from the red energy and light. With the same degree of pale skin as Siphon, and wearing white clothing that mirrors Aiden's black clothing - an otherwise identical clone of Aiden stands before him.

"There. Now was that so hard to do?"

>Ethan looks at Aiden for a moment, narrowing his eyes as he asks:

"Why did you stop Siphon. He was about to get our revenge."

>Aiden keeps his hands in his pocket, stating:

"No he wasn't. He was about to make a mistake that would cost an immeasurable amount morality. An amount beyond regain."

>Keeping his hands in his jacket pockets still, Aiden says:

"That is a price that I cannot pay - and neither can you."

>Silent for a moment, Ethan then says in a distorted cadence.

"He took Hiyuki away from us! She was ours before-"

>Aiden then immediately snaps back, now clearly irritated.

"Enough about her. We're not interested in her, and you know that. We were never interested in who she was."

>Lowering his head, Aiden then says under his breath:

"….We were just interested in what she could do for us."

>Now looking back up at Ethan with a look of intense anger, Aiden then says:

"You're going to pay for what you did, and I know the punishment that you're the most afraid of."

 No.2454

File: 1695264095665-0.jpeg (92.65 KB, 800x600, Space.jpeg)

File: 1695264095665-1.jpeg (182.33 KB, 891x1482, Aiden - 52.jpeg)

File: 1695264095665-2.jpeg (71.01 KB, 850x1203, Ethan - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695264095665-3.gif (950.26 KB, 500x281, Combat - 8.gif)

File: 1695264095665-4.jpg (927.22 KB, 2048x2048, Sun.jpg)

>>2453
>Taking his hands out of his jacket pockets, Aiden then says to Ethan:

"That woman has been through even more mental strife and pain than we have. You know damn well that she was never someone that we had any genuine feelings for."

>Ethan looks off in the distance, angry as his teeth slowly grind behind his closed lips.

"Yeah? Well we could've at least nailed her once-"

>Aiden's palm then immediately appears in front of Ethan's face - seemingly slamming him into the ground and dragging him across the skies of the cosmos.

>In an instant, Aiden seemingly flings Ethan across entire star systems, local groups and even galaxies. After doing so, Aiden instantly catches up to Ethan and grabs him by the jacket collar.

>Ethan immediately tries to punch Aiden - only for his fist to be caught effortlessly in Aiden's palm. As he looks his alter state dead in the eyes, behind his sunglasses, he then says:

"But that's been our problem from the start, hasn't it? Everything and everyone is nothing but a joke to you. A tool. Something for your damned amusement."

>Ethan gives a wry smile as he then says:

"What. You're going to tell me that you're sad about what happened to Blackburn? You're not going to tell me that Jack didn't have it coming?"

>Wringing himself free of Aiden's grasp, Ethan then steps backwards - hovering in the air as he shouts:

"If you had just let me out - he never would've severed your arm! I would've destroyed him Aiden! Grounded his bones into dust!"

>Showing his hands, now suddenly coated in blood, Ethan then laughs hysterically, stating:

"Don't bullshit me either! You know, deep down, what we are! It's what our buddy with the bee hair always says!"

>Ethan then rushes forward, moving to strike at Aiden as his midnight black hair contrasts with Aiden's own white hair.

>Aiden blocks the attack and grapples Ethan to the "ground" - causing massive ripples to occur across the universe.

"Don't act like you didn't want to take his airhead of a girlfriend either! Could've gotten it too, if you weren't such a weak coward. But then again, that's why you made me, isn't it?"

>Ethan says, holding his hands out as he continues laughing - his laughter rippling into the aether of the dimension.

"Look around you, Aiden! You made this entire dimension with a thought! You have any fucking idea how much power's contained in that little head of yours?"

>Now looking back at Aiden, Ethan then says:

Yet I was supposed to submit to you?! Someone so meek and weak willed as to allow others to take advantage of you? A king doesn't bow down to their subjects, Aiden! It's the other way around!"

>Ethan continues to generate power, as he then shouts:

"You know damned well what separates a warrior from a conscript! It's what separates a fighter from a survivor! It's instinct, Aiden! The instinct to dominate your enemies! To outright destroy them!"

>Then, the Shadow of Aiden exclaims:

"Naturally, that's what I am! That's what I represent! The strength that you cast out in shame!"

>Ethan then rushes Aiden again, as Aiden avoids and blocks Ethan's strikes. Ethan nonetheless continues speaking:

"I'm your God damned pride, Aiden! Your ego! Your sense of self! I'm what you were supposed to be!"

>Ethan then moves back, as he generates a massive surge of energy - a literal celestial star above him. Now remotely holding up the biggest star fathomable, he shouts:

"You're supposed to be power. Pure, unrelenting force in the face of conflict! But all I see is pure enervation! Weakness and decay!"

>Ethan then launches the star at Aiden with one hand, laughing as he does so.

 No.2455

File: 1695264794018-0.jpeg (590.08 KB, 2457x3402, Aiden - 41.jpeg)

File: 1695264794018-1.jpg (927.22 KB, 2048x2048, Sun.jpg)

File: 1695264794018-2.jpeg (109.55 KB, 850x1213, Ethan - 3.jpeg)

File: 1695264794018-3.png (10.52 KB, 1024x576, Power Imprimatur - 4.png)

File: 1695264794018-4.gif (905.49 KB, 480x360, IT - 4.gif)

>>2454
>Silent for a moment, Aiden then looks up at the star, as his eyes begin to glow with a radiant red light. In fact, the light is so overflowing in volume and intensity - that it begins to make trails of red energy and light that streak past his eyes.

"Are you finished?"

>Aiden then moves forward - flying in the air at incalculable speeds as he rushes to meet the impossibly large celestial object - as it barrels towards him.

>Catching the star with one finger, he then makes a single tapping motion with his hand - as bright red light courses through the star, exploding it in the biggest explosion ever seen.

"What the-"

>Before he can react, Ethan is suddenly kicked to the ground with such force, that his body begins slowly disintegrating. The sheer force of the attack is enough to weaken Ethan's body, and cause him to slowly destabilize over time.

>As Aiden now stands before him, hands still in his jacket pockets, he places a boot on Ethan's chest to keep him from moving.

"Because I'm really tired of hearing myself think now."

>Coughing up blue blood, Ethan then curses at Aiden as he says:

"You can't keep me buried away! I'm never going to go away, Aiden! You can't destroy me! You can't get rid of me! The longer you keep me locked up in your head, the sooner I'm going to break free!"

>Aiden then does something unexpected to Ethan. As he removes his boot from Ethan's chest, Aiden then says:

"You're right. That isn't the solution. But I think you know what is."

>Ethan narrows his eyes for a moment, before the realization kicks in. Fear and panic starts manifesting in his eyes as he quickly starts backpedaling away from Aiden, shouting:

"Nonononono! Stay back! Stay away! I'm not going to let you do that!"

>As Ethan slowly stands up, he continues trying to limp away, as one of his legs starts to disintegrate.

"I'm never going back there, Aiden! I'm not going to-"

>Aiden then immediately catches up to Ethan and places both of his hands on Ethan's shoulders, stating:

"You were right about me, obviously. It'd be stranger if I didn't know myself,"

>Ethan looks nervous, paralyzed with fear as the sheer terror of the situation fully manifests itself in his mind.

"But you're a small fragment of my psyche. Just another reminder of my own mistakes - and nothing more."

>Aiden then focuses his energy, as glowing red light begins to form around Ethan. The construct of Aiden's psyche then begins to slowly disappear into nothingness, as the red light imbues itself into Aiden's body - before fading in luminosity.

>For a moment, a bright red symbol appears in Aiden's eyes - fluctuating and crackling with power before it disappears.

>After the integration process is complete, Aiden takes a deep breath and sighs, before saying:

"But never again. I won't forget what you are - or who I am either."

>Aiden then gives himself a moment to look around - over the infinite expanse of the dimension that he made prior - before finally disappearing from it, in the blink of an eye.

>As this occurs, Aiden leaves no trace behind.

 No.2456

File: 1695265445147-0.jpg (36.49 KB, 600x338, Archeon (Earth-0) - 2.jpg)

File: 1695265445147-1.jpg (200.5 KB, 1650x928, Archeon (Earth-0) CEO Offi….jpg)

File: 1695265445147-2.jpeg (140.52 KB, 850x1203, Aiden - 50.jpeg)

File: 1695265445147-3.jpeg (91.01 KB, 850x959, Ryozo.jpeg)

>>2455
>Location: Sanctuary City - Archeon Complex
>Time: 5:00 PM

>As Aiden finishes up his work day, he then gets back to reorganizing documents at his desk. While doing so, he notices the door open.

"Sure, you can come in."

>Ryozo then walks in, arms crossed as he looks at Aiden with an embarrassed expression on his face.

"……."

>After a few moments of silence, Aiden then says:

"What's wrong, Ryozo?"

>Silent for a few more moments, Ryozo then bows.

"I want to apologize once again on behalf of the Hoyokazi family. My actions towards you were unforgivable, and my transgressions can never be repaid."

>Aiden blinks for a moment behind his sunglasses, and then smiles, before saying:

"Sure they aren't and sure they can't. I've already forgiven you, haven't I?"

>Aiden then taps his forehead, stating:

"Was just a more stubborn part of myself who couldn't let go. I've dealt with that a lot over the past few months."

>Looking up at Aiden, Ryozo looks somewhat confused for a moment, before bowing again with a deep sense of gratitude.

"Thank you, Aiden! I promise, I will maintain proper relations from now on. I will repay you in the best way that I can!"

>Aiden shakes his head, stating:

"Ryozo you don't need to-"

>Ryozo then interjects, saying:

"No. I will ensure that my cousin is informed of your change of character. As well as my own - thanks to my interactions with you. It is something that cannot be overstated. Nor will it go unrecognized."

>Sighing, Aiden then nods and gestures with his hand, stating:

"If you insist, Ryozo. Go tell Hiyuki then."

>Thinking to himself, Aiden then taps the bottom of his chin, exclaiming:

"Oh, right. I almost forgot. I need to discuss the final components of the agreement between Archeon and Hoyokazi Industries."

>Ryozo nods and then turns to leave, stating:

"Thank you Aiden. For everything. I will do better in the future, you have my word."

>Ryozo then moves to leave Aiden's office, as Aiden himself says:

"Yeah. I will too. Oh and Ryozo?"

>Ryozo stops to turn around, as Aiden states:

"You're my friend. If you need anything, I'm only a call or a signal away. Remember that."

>Ryozo looks stunned for a moment, before he turns around - with a single tear falling down his cheek.

"…Yes. Understood. Thank you again, Aiden. I do appreciate that."

>Ryozo then leaves the office and closes the door behind him as he leaves too.

>Aiden then looks on in contemplative thought, now reflecting on his recent experiences and circumstances.

 No.2457

File: 1695266058448-0.jpg (200.5 KB, 1650x928, Archeon (Earth-0) CEO Offi….jpg)

File: 1695266058448-1.jpeg (337.76 KB, 715x1000, Aiden - 51.jpeg)

File: 1695266058448-2.jpeg (132.51 KB, 642x1182, Suisei - 2.jpeg)

File: 1695266058448-3.gif (1.12 MB, 498x278, Kiss.gif)

>>2456
>Now on his own, Aiden then goes back to finishing up the document organization that he was previously engrossed in. After a few seconds however, a presence appears from seemingly nowhere.

"He seemed nice, more than I thought he would be."

>Suisei Yoshimura then manifests herself from thin air - having been invisible the entire time.

"People can surprise you, Suisei. You just have to get to know them."

>Aiden says as he finishes up his document sorting. At that moment, however, Suisei places a finger on Aiden's chin and turns his attention towards her face.

"I am very much aware, Aiden."

>Aiden's face turns red as Suisei leans in and gives him a kiss on the mouth. After a few seconds, Suisei then removes herself from the kiss and adjusts her gloves as she speaks.

"I will accompany you to your meeting with Hiyuki Hoyokazi."

>Aiden's eyebrow is raised - as his eyes remain hidden behind his sunglasses.

"…..You don't think it's weird that the chairwoman of Yoshimura Corporation would be present at a meeting involving a joint venture between Archeon and Hoyokazi Industries?"

>Suisei continues adjusting her gloves, not looking Aiden in the eye as she continues speaking nonchalantly.

"I don't care for corporate politics, Aiden. I will only be there to make one thing known to Hiyuki."

>Suisei then leans forward on Aiden's desk - her face hovering centimeters away from Aiden's once more.

"You are off limits to her. There are few connections in this world that mean something to me. I will not allow her to sabotage one of them."

>Aiden sighs and groans as he states:

"She's not interested in me, Suisei. You can relax."

>Suisei shoots mental daggers at Aiden's face with an ice cold stare - before suddenly showing a happy expression on her face with a smile as her eyes close.

"Well then. I foresee no issues with my presence at the meeting - if that is the case."

 No.2458

File: 1695266317242-0.jpg (200.5 KB, 1650x928, Archeon (Earth-0) CEO Offi….jpg)

File: 1695266317242-1.jpeg (94.68 KB, 850x1159, Aiden - 48.jpeg)

File: 1695266317242-2.jpeg (140.72 KB, 850x1111, Suisei.jpeg)

>>2457
>Aiden sighs once more, before he then gets serious and looks Suisei in the eyes.

"….We're going to find your mother and bring her back, Suisei. I know she's out there - and whatever connection you have to her? We can use it to find her again."

>Suisei is somewhat delayed in her response to Aiden's statement - before her eyes start watering up gradually.

"…..I believe that would make me very happy, yes."

>Suisei then gives Aiden another kiss on the cheek, before turning to walk to the door.

"I will hold you to that promise, Aiden. Stella may have spent more time with you - but I have seen the real you for far longer. Every imperfect side of you."

>Stopping for a moment, Suisei then turns her head towards Aiden, as she rests one hand on the door frame in front of her.

"…..The flaws did not turn me away. In fact, they only reinforced my convictions. You are a caring person. Determined and full of resolve. Do not let anyone claim otherwise, Aiden."

>As she turns her attention back to the door, she then concludes by stating:

"That fire inside of you is why I even developed an interest in you to begin with. You are not weak, Aiden. You have never been weak. Remember that - and keep moving forward."

>Suisei pauses for a moment, creating a silence in the air that allows for her to accentuate the point. She then concludes by saying:

"….Because I will accept nothing less from the man that I chose. You are capable of greatness - so you will meet that expectation."

>Suisei then opens the door and leaves - as Aiden is then left to his own devices, somewhat taken aback.

"……I will, Suisei. I promise."

>Aiden then stands up, takes one last look at his desk, before turning around to leave the office.

[The End]


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