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Scene From Isa

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An approaching goddess, my increasing fear of failure. These sinful emotions guiding me onward, my desire to save one no matter the cost.

The weight of my limits crushing down on me, yet my will to push forward in the uncertainty. I float in the darkness, malice thickly releasing from me.

I slowly open my eyes, resting it on the shining light. Its warmth wrapping around me, pulling me in its embrace. Even if the chance is minuscule at best, I must succeed.

I soon find myself in the flowery field, the bleeding moon shining down. The gentle breeze against me, azure energy everywhere in the plane.

My uneasy feelings, a connection with it. I shortly look ahead, seeing the innocent one in front of the bench. My heavy footsteps towards her, soon standing before her.

“Welcome, Isa.” Elina’s faint smile at me.

“Hello...Elina. I need to ask. What can you tell me about Seres? I only know a bit.” My hand on my waist.

“I only know a little as well. Seres is a goddess that holds the possibility to eliminate conflict, the method though is unknown. Given from what I learned, it is likely to enslave everyone, and kill all others that do not fall under her influence.” The person holds her upper arm as she sadly looks away.

“Complete domination as I thought...and...what of you? How far along are you?” I fold my arms in unrest.

“There is not much time, as my power grows stronger, I near my end. Right now, I am being prepared for the next phase.” Her eyes slightly in my direction.

A man developing her abilities, preparing her for a cruel end. My eyes on the thickening azure energy in the air, feeling eyes on me in the slowly blowing breeze.

My growing unease, my desperately racing heart. Elina likely being the last, a goddess quickly approaching our reality. Running in the abyss, racing towards one from the past, my voice screaming out to them.

“And this blue energy everywhere, does this have to do with Seres?” my grim tone as I grab my arms.

“Yes, it does. The thicker it is, the more visible it becomes, and the closer she draws. Though, I do notice that you seem to have a connection with this Azure Energy.” Elina’s hand to her chest.

“Might it be due to the offerings I have been making? Does this mean there is a real possibility of my success?” I eagerly step forward a bit.

“Your offerings definitely do have an impact, but as for a real chance? I am not sure.” The hazel one’s vision to her side.

Every passing moment, I feel her slipping further away. My wish for her safety, a pure light coming into my small world, bringing more into its void. A heart connecting others, binding them together with her.

My increasing desperation, shaking at the possibility of failure. Closing my eyes, engraving her smile into my mind. I steadily pass her, making my way to the altar.

I shortly stand before it, my vision on the floating moon above. Its radiating force, flashing crimson at times. Its powerful force drawing me to it, malice seeping out of my body.

I expand my arms, releasing the negativity. The object absorbing it, soon returning energy to me. I feel a strange power flowing through me, my uncertainty on it.

“What is this...?” my unrest.

My presence on the platform of memories, a black sigil engraving into an enormous door. Shadowy arms stretching from it, the peculiar force grabbing at me.

“You are not ready yet.” Their calm voice to me.

“What do you mean I am not ready? I am running out of time here!” I swing out my arm.

“Only when you have truly revealed the depths of your soul will this seal come undone. Show me how far your devotion truly goes.” The strange being’s chilling message to me.

Lowering my head, these frustrating sentiments within me. The reacting memories in the place, the beautiful glow from its power sending me out. My unrestful heart, turning to see Elina standing in front of me.

“There is a power in me, but I cannot draw it out yet...” My voice quivers as I grab my wrist.

“You have done many things in the past, Isa, and your path now. These are all tests by the Iconoclast.” Elina’s hands behind her back.

“A test for what? My devotion? How far I am willing to go? I am running out of time here!” I close my eyes with my head low.

My growing desperation, needing the power inside of me. Armand quickly nearing his goal, his many supporters holding him high. Myself against the storm, these unsettling feelings within me.

My companion and I shortly at the bench, Elina sitting on it, my head on her lap. Distress from my vision, her hand over my own. The thickening azure, another presence eyes on us.

“Every time I think, it should be me who is the one to be punished instead of you. Funny how unfair things can be...” I depressingly look away.

“Isa, did you not devote your life to this sort of thing? By trying to end the conflict at one point, to stop these kinds of occurrences?” Elina’s soft tone on me.

“I did, and then I learned. That conflict will never end, thus selfish desires are what guides our path. It made me realize, sometimes...it is okay to be this way.” My gaze to her.

“And is this not enough? No matter how small the wish, it is always worth pursuing. Even if it is unfair, it is always possible to turn the tiniest chance favorable.” The azure one warmly smiles at me.

Falling to my knees in the darkness, my road without light. Elina approaching me, extending her hand to me. An individual shining her light, showing a path.

The person’s meaningful words, my hand reaching forward, grabbing her offer. I shortly rise to my feet, our eyes on the end of the direction.

Both of us remaining in the flowery field, the flowing wind against us. My mind on her message, some ease with me. I can always rely on her, one continuously coming at my darkest hour.

A tiring feeling soon coming over me, our shining surroundings, my vision on her blurry face. I close my eyes, listening to her voice.

“Take that fear, Isa, and turn it into strength. You have always been one that could do the nigh impossible. Remember, there is light in the deepest of darkness. These are the words of the Iconoclast.”

Light in the deepest of darkness, the Iconoclast’s reverberating words. One embracing her imperfections and selfish desires, becoming corruption itself.

A being damning innumerable, yet leaving behind something valuable. At first, my view towards her as an enemy. My wish to end the conflict constantly on us, following my unwavering direction.

Eventually learning more about her, her guiding message setting something new in my heart. I will not give in, there is still time, I will keep resisting until the very last moment. Wait for me Elina, I am coming.

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Isa: Even if the chance is minuscule at best, I will keep pursuing my light...

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Thank you for reading this far. With the failed offering, and Isa running out of time. Subscribe to the Patreon see what Isa will do to save Elina. Sometimes, there is no choice but to be the enemy to see one simple wish become a reality.

Azure Night

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Conclusion)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

An unbending blade in the past, the maiden’s hard steel slowly rusting, eventually shattering. Her meeting with an innocent one setting her path, a chance encounter underneath the crimson moon.

The two beneath the warm sun, loud voices in the town. Some happy, others sad and angry. Shops around the corners, buildings lining the area.

The maiden’s black hair tying back, her white coat, dark top, and long jeans. Her companion ahead, their hazel hair flowing long, a grey ribbon tying at the back of their head. The person in a crimson shirt, a black dress wrapping below.

The two dropping off some packages at a warehouse, a man signing off on it. Isa looking at the pure one, seeing her joyously do her job.

These simple sentiments, the maiden slowly understanding them. Both shortly make their way to an alley, reviewing their list.

“There are a few more places, and that should be it.” Elina holds down her hands with her vision on the soldier.

“I suppose that went by quickly.” Isa turns from them as she folds her arms.

An individual starting from nothing, her efforts to rise through the ranks, eventually gaining recognition for her feats.

Her standing instantly going away, the maiden’s mind on her commander’s words, trying to make sense of them. The hazel one’s attention below, holding her arm.

“Isa...are you truly fine with this...?” Elina sadly looks a bit away.

The soldier walking in the black abyss, the pure one’s message ringing through her. The person trying to find her way, feeling the immense weight crush her.

A faint light on her path, the echoing words within her. Isa shortly facing Elina, containing her frustration. The maiden’s eyes on her companion’s sullen expression, soon letting out a sigh.

“It is...still a lot to take in. No matter, it is a different part of the job. And...it is not bad, we get to spend more time together.” Isa’s hand behind her head with a faint smile at Elina.

A hard steel doing her jobs, pushing through the ranks towards a higher plane. Her desire to fulfill her beliefs, silencing the enemies along her direction. A certain night coming, creating an opening in her, deteriorating her over the passing time.

A crack eventually happening, the maiden shattering into pieces. Her current position before her, Isa steadily adapting to it.

“Different job or not...is it something that you want to do? You spent your life getting so high up, to go out there and pursue your passion. I know you are not fine with this...” The pure one sternly looks at the maiden.

Rain descending in the flowery plane, one standing within it, seeing the mesmerizing shining light.

An innocent soul aware of her companion’s displeasure, Elina stifling her sorrow, not wanting to take away the person’s dream. The maiden’s difficulty to let go, her burning resolve to continue along her road.

“You are right, I am not fine with this...” Isa distantly looks away.

An individual traveling far, her uncaring sword bathing underneath the sun’s light. The maiden following her passion, performing her duties to the best of her ability.

Isa’s powerful will, the soldier showing her undying spirit to countless. Elina quietly looking down, grabbing her arms.

“But...the more I think about it. The more I realize...I was throwing away my life. It might take some time, but I know I would rather be here.” Isa’s hand on her waist with a gentle look at the girl.

A heart constantly moving onward, passing by countless. Someone slowly finding her way, learning more from her companion.

A pure person doing their best, performing a variety of tasks from their home. The hazel one shyly turning away, soon raising her arms, pressing her fingers together.

“We have some time...do you, want to go to the park for a bit?” Elina’s slightly crimson face as she glances back.

“Yeah, sounds nice.” The maiden’s faint smile to her.

A message steadily making more sense, the maiden connecting the fragments. An individual adjusting to her new life, relishing in the simple pleasures in her hands.

Both soon heading onward, feeling the gentle breeze on them. The sounds from people underneath the warm sun, a normal existence in a town.

The two shortly at the park, a road leading far. Trees in the distance, a playground nearby. Children running around, many climbing on structures, their parents close-by.

Isa and Elina sitting on a bench, the innocent one resting against the maiden, their eyes on some birds flying by.

“You know, it was around this time when I was young. That I got chased by a bunch of rabbits...” Elina smiles with her hand to her chest.

“Huh...those creatures are more vicious than I thought...” Isa’s slightly wide eyes at her.

“No kidding...” The girl sighs.

Interesting mysteries in the worlds, small and large ones each with their own fascinating stories. The two companions chatting away, Elina tightly holding onto her partner’s arm.

The calm wind on them, smaller creatures running by. Some stopping, looking at the two, shortly heading on their way.

“One time, I fell on a small boar. I was more surprised by the strength that little one had. It bolted off, carrying me with it.” Isa’s slightly pale face.

“Must have been quite a ride hehe.” Elina brightly smiles at her companion.

“Definitely was haha.” Isa agrees with her hand behind her head.

Simply flowing sentiments, companions relishing in common bliss. The commander’s words slowly becoming clearer to the maiden, his meaningful guidance setting a new direction in her life. An unlikely meeting between two underneath the crimson moon, their close hearts to one another.

It was difficult at first, but the more I thought about the commander’s words. The more I was around her, I began to understand. Still...that resolve, my passion...it could not be quelled. Elina, you never should have gotten caught up in my mess. Sorry, that I was unable to protect you...

Azure Night

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Part 3)

Chapter 5.5: Fearful Eve

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

A race against time, the demon refusing to give in, keeping her eye on her target on their throne. Some time going by, the crimson light shining down on the city.

One in the shadows making a route for two, Ellis setting off an explosion, alarming many. Fire spreading far, smoke filling the area.

Some looking out the windows, seeing guards on the scene. The intensifying flames, screams echoing in the place. Isa and Zeke rushing through the darkness, storming the front.

Their presence on the first layer of the cathedral, the thick steel around them. Four paths at the bottom, plants along the corners. Pictures on the walls, statues lining the middle. Members from the church running in from three sides, their weapons in hand.

“Well, can’t say I did not expect this. As planned, I will remain nearby to help Ellis and clear out this layer.” Zeke glances at the young woman.

“Deal with them how you wish, just ensure to come out alive.” Isa folds her arms.

“Heh...I will do my best.” The archer points his bow onward.

A devil proceeding forward, destroying strongholds, aiming to weaken a person standing high on their throne.

The young woman’s will to pay any price, her awareness on the possibility at the end. No matter, her desire to see her direction through, refusing to remain silent.

“You are a calamity on the world...!” anger from one.

“If it means Elina can be safe and happy, then I will take on that burden.” Isa’s arm afar.

Arrows rapidly passing her, hitting her enemies in their shoulders. Many stepping away in agony, watching her run for the stairs.

The maiden racing towards one from her past, moving along her black path. Memories driving her forward, an individual wanting the old times with one again.

Isa ascending up the stairs, Zeke evading his enemies. The young man quickly firing his shots, bringing down one after the next.

On the second floor, the demon standing in an open room. The granite floor at her feet, some plants along the corners.

A statue of a goddess to the back, some ancient ornaments lining from left to right in front of it. At the center, a young man in red armor standing there. His brown hair, the person dreadfully looking at her with his yellow eyes.

“Why did you fall this far? You were one of our best, why are you attacking the church?” the person’s painful tone.

A former ally admiring her in the past, witnessing her work her way higher, an individual bringing glory to their cause.

A skillful soldier completing her tasks, pulling out miracles in unfavorable situations. Many envying her, wanting to meet her line. Roman speaking to her at times, her guiding words setting forward his direction.

His sad eyes on her, seeing the difference in her state. A person giving up her humanity, selfishly pursuing her path. Isa shortly walking onward, soon stopping before him.

“Faithfully I served the church, foolishly doing so. I looked deeper into them, finding out the truth. I challenged Armand, because I still believed in our ideals. I lost, but that is not the reason for my path. They took someone so pure, and are planning to use her as a sacrifice...” The maiden’s sorrow.

“What do you mean...?” the young man steps back in surprise.

One commanding the board, secluding their intention underneath the guise of divinity, stringing along countless in their goal.

The maiden speaking out against it, her defeat creating a wave of madness. Everything slipping out of her hands, Elina’s capture tormenting her for years. A final sacrifice in the church’s hands, the young woman fearing the worst, wanting the pure one in her arms again.

“I secretly looked into their history, and found a pattern. Branding others as criminals, taking those near them. In small numbers, it was difficult to notice. Though, once I put it together, it was truly an enormous thing. Four years later, I threatened a warden, and found out they are going to sacrifice Elina. Then those with me, one of them lost someone precious to them, sacrificed in front of his eyes. A similar thing with the other, and now they are approaching their last one...Elina, to complete his so-called ideal...” Isa frustratingly looks away.

Roman stepping back a bit, a massive weight before him. The young man’s uncertainty on the truth or lie, thinking on the information within his hands.

One originally serving the church, someone turning her blade against their leader, challenging Armand for his position.

An individual returning without their humanity, setting the land ablaze, yet her grabbing words to him. The person turning away his gaze, extending his sword to his side.

“Right now...I do not know what to believe. Though, whenever I crossed blades with you, I could always tell...” Roman’s vision to her.

“If that is what you wish, then I accept.” Isa’s katana afar.

Diverging paths setting two friends against each other, both proceeding along their road. A small wedge in the armor, some doubt filling Roman’s mind. Both hastily moving, clashing against one another.

The young woman’s immense force, their rapid collisions into the other’s weapon, circling each other. Sparks flying in the room, the two soon dashing away, standing from a distance.

“Even now, your swordsmanship is difficult to match.” The person’s slight smile at her.

“And you have improved much yourself, Roman.” Isa returns a similar grin.

A young man’s hard efforts, someone rising from nothing, following the guidance from one. Two sparring in the past, sometimes working in the field together.

The maiden saving him multiple times, his conflicting heart seeing her state and resolve. Isa raising her sword, concentrating negative energy.

The devil sweeping her weapon across the floor, sending the black waves to him. Roman flipping over it, watching the dark spikes hit the wall. His unrestful vision, quickly descending on her.

The demon’s slight step, crashing her claw into his blade. The young man touching down, hastily breaking away from her. Both racing through the room, their presence in the dark abyss, a slim light setting their path.

Roman not sensing ill intent, bliss filling him. Excitement from the two, their connecting weapons setting forward a blazing inferno of light and darkness.

Both adjusting their steps, the maiden coming in from behind, Roman blocking her lower assault. One never able to defeat her, her meaningful message eternally ringing through him.

“Even after I surpassed your rank, you were a storm. Even now, I do not think I can defeat you.” The young man’s mild grin.

“All you can do is your best, nothing more. Rank is merely a placement, it does not define how truly far you can soar.” Isa’s gentle look on him.

“Your choice to become a demon, what is the price you paid?” Roman’s eyes slightly away.

“That has not been determined yet.” The maiden leaps back.

“You mean, you took up a deal without knowing what the price is? Why?” the person’s confusion at her.

“That is simply how far I will go for Elina. It does not matter what price I have to pay. I made the contract to escape my prison, to be able to save her.” Isa directs her blade at him.

The young man feeling her resolve, a person willing to pay any price, her desire to save a precious person. Taking in her determination, tightening his grip on his weapon. The two bursting through, their swords dancing in the endless plane.

Roman hastily breaking away, soon standing from a distance. The person raising his blade, releasing a brilliantly shining light to the air. The maiden sharply rushing forward, witnessing him slam it down.

“It does not matter what price I have to pay, I will do so for the tiniest chance to save her...”

Two originally living in bliss with the other, a moment separating their worlds. One returning as a demon, displaying her black soul. The young woman striking through, dispersing the white force into the air, her malice devouring the surrounding energy.

Darkness secreting from her, Roman’s unease at her. A person steadily awakening, embracing the sins staining her spirit. The maiden rapidly assaulting him, crashing her claw into his sword.

Roman’s slipping defense, unable to keep up with her. Isa seeing her opportunity, instantly closing in the gap, rendering her knee into his stomach. The demon stunning him, soon turning to her side, fiercely colliding her foot into his chest.

Her heavy impact sending him afar, colling his back into the wall. The young man falling below, soon pushing himself up to his knee, seeing her blade at his neck.

“I died on that island after four long hellish years. Still, I could not rest, not until I know she is safe. As such, I transformed my body, all to save Elina.” Isa’s calm voice.

The maiden’s great determination, someone choosing to give up her humanity for the slimmest chance to save one. Her feverish will towards Roman, the young man feeling her true sentiments.

Isa putting away her sword, soon extending her hand to him. The person’s eyes on her offer, shortly accepting her hand, rising to his feet.

“I believe you, Isa. Though, I will need time to assess this information. If it checks out, I will stifle the influence of the church on this end, and provide support.” Roman steps away, folding his arms.

“It will mean you are an enemy of the church, are you fine with this?” the maiden turns from him with her hand on her waist.

“If your information is true, then yes. I did not sign up for tyranny, and I will gladly put down my life to stop it and save Elina.” The person’s fist to his chest.

“Alright, we will leave it at that for now.” Isa walks ahead.

A pure one connecting thin lines, steadily strengthening the link. A demon embracing her sins, seeking after her old days.

Isa clashing against her former allies, showing her undying soul to them. The entity between dimensions watching, carefully observing the maiden’s direction. Cyra’s soft smile, resting her hand on her chest.

Isa soon standing by an azure flower by her foot, shortly kneeling to it. The devil touching it, its reacting force to her, spreading its blue light. Roman’s eyes on the scene, uncertainly putting his hand to his chin.

I was told...how emotions are a sin. If it is, then I do not regret it. This is what makes me human...this is how I met Isa. This is how I grew to love her, and if there is any way for me to save her, I will do so...

A girl alone in a dark room, chains keeping her to her bed. Her sad eyes to the open window, reaching for the outside.

“If emotions are a sin, then I will accept it. These feelings I have for Isa, they are invaluable...”

“Elina...” Roman lowers his head.

“Even if the world thinks Isa is an enemy, it does not matter. I know the truth, I know what she fought for. And she is out there right now, doing her best again...” Elina’s hand sadly to her chest.

Hearing her words, Isa and Roman feeling the pure one’s sentiments. The maiden enduring her pain, keeping her eye on the one standing on their throne. The fading scene, Isa rising to her feet.

“Isa...” Roman’s grim eyes to her.

“Your so-called savior did that to her, and far worse.” The maiden walks onward.

If emotions are a sin, then that is fine. I was once just a sword, but when I shattered, something more grew. Every moment I cherished with you, this I do not regret. Elina...I will not give up. No matter the price I have to pay, I will do so to be able to bring you away from your torment...

Azure Night

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Part 2)

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Conclusion)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Pleasant memories with Elina, her wish for her companion to freely soar in the endless sky. An innocent individual doing her best, trying to support her partner in their direction.

Her desire to embrace Isa again, yet being fine with not doing so for their safety. The pure one resisting the pain on her body, steadily seeing the conclusion.

Armand swinging out his arm, her guards taking her away. At the time, Isa and Ellis stopping by a tavern, an idea coming to the woman’s mind.

“We have some time, let’s have fun and do a comedy routine! It’ll help to ease the nerves a bit!” the woman happily swaying from left to right, her hands to her chest.

“Wha? I know I was stone cold in the past, but I don’t do well with this stuff...” Isa surprisingly steps back.

“It will be fine! Just follow my lead, leave the heavy lifting to me!” Ellis brightly smiles at her.

“I...I don’t know...” Isa uncertainly looks down a bit.

“Come on Isa...!” the woman slightly pouts.

“Fine...” The demon reluctantly concedes.

Simply flowing waves, these small moments to the maiden, her pleasant experiences with a few. Her eyes on the happy woman, witnessing them holding her hands in excitement. Ellis pulling the young woman inside, the two soon standing within the room.

Tables lining parallel to each other, a counter towards the back. Ellis shortly reserving a spot, the two eventually making their way up to the stage. Everyone’s eyes on them, some confusion from the people.

“Alright, just follow my lead and everything will work itself out.” Ellis whispers to Isa.

The young woman slightly looking at the person, an idea coming to her mind. Old flowing emotions, her steadily lightening expression.

“Say hello to your local Isa and Ellis, here to bring to you a joyful spark to never forget!” the woman steps forward, gesturing her hand to the mass.

“Coming to you live, but don’t mind the shrewd one here.” Isa bows with a sly smile.

“What...?” Ellis looks at her in surprise.

“No need to deny it. I mean, if I had not known any better, I’d say you were trying to send a signal.” Isa turns away while she props her arms behind her head.

Sentiments from Isa’s past brewing at the depths, slowly coming to the surface. The maiden catching the crowd’s attention, getting some laughs out of them.

“Isa...what are you doing...?!” Ellis blushes while she furiously looks at them.

“Folks, let me tell you a story. The tale of a lost woman, one with a passion not yet fulfilled.” Isa quickly slips behind Ellis as she grabs their arms, pushing them a bit forward.

One taking the lead, throwing the routine into chaotic bliss. An individual stepping up to the task, commanding the board in her hands. The people’s increasing interest, some clapping from them.

“I--Isa, you are supposed to follow my lead!” Ellis angrily whispers behind.

“A soul long lost, vanishing into the distant night, never to have her wishes heard!” the demon expands her arms to the mass.

Darkness flowing from the maiden, blanketing the stage in its thick terror. The woman’s unease, feeling a sharp pull.

A scream echoing in the area, the soon fading malice. Ellis no longer in her position, the maiden remaining in her place.

“However, in the smallest trickle of light. Descending from the heavens, she would return.” Isa’s hand above.

The crowd’s fascination shifting upward, seeing the light descend to the field. Ellis emerging, slowly making her way down, shakily touching the floor with her feet. The woman’s hasty heart, taking a moment to catch herself.

“And that concludes the magic trick, hope you liked it.” Isa brightly waves at them.

“Have you any idea how terrifying that was?!” Ellis yells at her.

“Fully.” Isa turns as she covers her face with her offhand with a devious smile.

Laughter erupting in the room, their loud claps at the performance. Isa standing there, hearing the woman’s fury. The two soon sitting down at a lone table, Ellis folding her arms, angrily looking away.

“I’m sorry haha, I couldn’t help it.” Isa’s hand behind her head.

“I wonder how Elina puts up with you.” The woman humorlessly looks at the maiden.

“Same here.” The demon shrugs.

The steadily calming situation, both soon laughing. An encounter going a different way, yet creating an invaluable experience between the two. The woman shortly sighing, looking down a bit.

“It was a good experience, it helps to take the mind off the pressure. The church, they took someone from me as well. This happens a lot, a pattern by branding others as criminals, then proceeding with their aim.” Ellis slightly frowns.

“I know, I found it in their files back when I worked under them. As you can guess, I was defeated shortly after that, and was thrown onto the Prison Island. Later learning that they plan to sacrifice Elina, but I do not know for what.” Isa folds her arms with her attention a bit below.

“From what I know, they plan to summon a goddess, Seres, who requires a certain amount of sacrifices. I believe Elina is the last one. This is their way to deal with the endless conflict...no doubt enslaving everyone, or murdering countless. Probably both.” The person’s serious vision on the devil.

Chilling knowledge striking at the maiden, Armand’s direction to summon a deity. A man’s feverish path, his determination to see it through to the end.

One last piece in his hands, the demon’s shaking heart, fearing the weight of failure. Isa grabbing her arms with a heavy breath, her cold heart.

“I will do all that I can to assist you. If we hurry, this can be prevented. However, I cannot say exactly what can happen due to this likely being the last one.” Ellis’ arms in a thinking posture.

“You have my gratitude...” Isa lowers her head.

The maiden’s agonizing sentiments, her partner on her mind. A small chance in her hands, her desperation to make it into a reality.

Isa racing in a lonely abyss, reaching for one at the end of the nightmare. The slim light in the darkness, her heart desiring for the past again, yearning to apologize to Elina.

Azure Night

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Part 1)

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Part 3)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Hearts linking to one, their gratefulness to a pure person. The maiden seeing her partner’s hand, someone positively affecting many lives. The young woman’s increasing determination, refusing to remain silent.

A sword shattering, losing her way at one point. An individual reforming herself, proceeding in a feverish frenzy.

The next morning, the three in a city at an inn sitting at a table in their room. Three beds in the area, some exotic plants in the corner.

“Fourth class Roman is the leader of this city. Let alone there being two layers to the cathedral in this part.” Isa taps down on the map.

“Once again, I will say night is our best time to act.” The young man trails his finger around the structure.

“And there doesn’t seem to be anything of worth to use as a strategic advantage.” Ellis folds her arms in unease.

Three drawing closer to their destination, their powerful enemies before them. The young woman’s jobs from the past, her experiences guiding her way.

An entity refusing to stay quiet, revealing her black soul. Isa tapping her foot against the ground, a city without anything to use. The devil shortly raising her hand, pointing to the outside of the building.

“We need to isolate our target. Ellis will take care of those on the outside, Zeke will clear out the first layer. He will be nearby in case something happens, and I will face Roman.” The demon’s certainty.

“It is the best plan we got, we’ll have to be really quick about this though. As soon as we are done, we flee this city.” The young man taps the side of the table.

“Oh...this will be something alright...” Ellis sighs as she holds the side of her head.

A few against the storm, their small force with many enemies. The maiden’s sharp vision, her mind on one standing above the rest. Countless faithfully serving, blindly following Armand’s will.

An individual originally part of their ranks, an innocent one coming into her life, brightening her path. Ellis soon heading out, leaving the demon and Zeke sitting at the table.

“Ya know...the church, they sacrificed someone I cared about. So, I understand what you are going through...” The young man’s attention slightly away.

“With each passing day...the feeling gets worse...and worse. I tremble at failing...” Isa lowers her head, her shaking fists.

“Yeah, that’s how I felt as well. Then that night arrived, and my entire world came crashing down. It has been years, and my hatred for the church is still powerful...” Zeke holds his arms, anger in his eyes.

The person’s desperate movements in the past, racing after a dear one, remembering the tears in her eyes. The young man fighting against many, enduring his great wounds.

An individual storming the Temple of Seres, making his way to the top, the thick azure energy flowing in the dusk.

Armand glancing back, a lifeless young woman on the ground in front of him. Zeke screams out, the man charging at the leader.

“You bastard!!!” the archer’s loud voice.

The person closing in on his foe, Armand’s swift steps. The leader cutting through the young man, spilling blood in the distance.

Zeke falling to the floor, looking to his dead companion. The young man weakly extending his hand to them, soon collapsing with tears in his eyes.

“Let not your feelings dictate the greater cause.” Armand looks ahead.

“Even through this anger...I still maintain myself a bit. Which is why I ask, to minimize the damage...” Zeke’s sorrow.

“I have no problem with that, but we do what is needed.” Isa’s gentle vision on him.

A man’s cold hand, someone feverishly pursuing his goal no matter the end. Armand’s strong hold on countless, believing in his powerful direction. Shadows concealing secrets, the picture becoming clearer to the maiden.

Her mind on the past, some files in her hands, choosing to follow her beliefs. The demon challenging the man, her defeat washing away another in the fire. Isa’s increasing fear with each passing day, desperately wishing to save Elina.

“If you had another chance, would you not do everything in your power to save this person?” the maiden’s soft tone.

“Yeah...I would, no doubt about it. Still, I would also want to hold onto my humanity while proceeding...” Zeke’s eyes to her.

“I suppose we each have our own way of doing things. No matter, it does not hurt to try, just do not get yourself killed.” Isa’s slight smile to him.

“Right...” The archer returns a similar grin with an agreeing nod.

A person following his drive, choosing to proceed in his own way. His true enemy in mind, keeping his sentiments firmly burning within his heart.

At the time, across the land. A large fort with thick walls, mighty gates surrounding it, a path leading upward with the statues of the gods on each side.

A temple at the top, an old altar with an ancient pentagram on the ground. The cathedral in view, its stairs reaching higher, those proud pillars around it.

The people going on with their lives, believing in their leader. From within, Armand standing in front of the goddess’ statue.

The man shortly facing his prisoner, Elina in chains with guards around her. The young woman’s injuries, her filthy brown dress.

“Prepare her for the next phase.” Armand’s hands behind his back with a stern look at her.

A pure one holding onto hope, her companion fighting their way towards them. Their achievements making it to the leader’s reports, unnerving the man more with the passing day.

A demon selfishly pursuing her path, following after her desires. One coming across the truth a few years prior, someone revealing the depths of her devotion, choosing to give up her humanity to save a precious person.

“You are afraid of Isa, of what you brought into reality.” Elina’s calm voice.

Many talents over the years, one able to meet him on a similar line. The man’s mind on their battle, seeing her potential for himself.

Her reforming steel, acting with flexibility in her movements. One bringing demise in the wake of her despair, revealing the black depths from within her. Armand’s hasty heart, the person carefully proceeding.

“Even if I die, Isa will be free...” The pure one’s soft tone.

Blissfully flowing sentiments in the past, Elina walking alone in the quiet dusk. The bleeding moon shining down its light, a package in her hands.

From around the corners in the street, a shady group coming forward. The girl’s unrestful eyes, watching them charge at her.

From the shadows, Isa coming in. The person lifting Elina within her arms, blasting away their enemies with a fierce shockwave.

The pure one’s surprise to her companion, seeing them flip their katana high into the air with their foot.

The reacting sword, soon raining down many blades on the field, stabbing into the foes. Screams filling the dusk, pinning them to the land.

“Talk about a bit of a close one.” Isa sets her companion down on their feet.

“I thought you headed out earlier...” The girl looks down a bit as she holds her hands.

“I had a bad feeling, so I cancelled it for now.” The maiden catches her katana in her left hand.

“But...you were looking forward to it for a while. Sorry...” Elina sadly looks away.

“Sure, it would have been some great freedom in quite some time. However, I can do without it just fine as well.” Isa smiles at them while she puts away her weapon.

Azure Night

Chapter 4.6: Melodic Link

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Part 2)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Two distant hearts reuniting for a small moment, the maiden’s burning resolve to save a precious one. The demon passing along the flowing streams, her slowly opening eyes, seeing the brightening light.

Shortly awakening in the dusk, Isa sitting down, her arms around her leg by a tree. Her vision to her surroundings, seeing Zeke and Ellis resting by the fire.

The maiden looking to the crimson moon, raising her hand to the object. Her grim eyes, deeply pleading for the innocent one’s safety. Isa soon standing up, heading down a quiet road.

“No...this power, I doubt it is enough to beat him. I need something more, I need an edge against him...” The young woman scowls a bit.

An individual walking along her dark path, deeply shaking within. Isa’s uncertainty on her challenge, yet her undying will to meet it.

The demon standing still, looking behind in the darkness. Her eyes on Armand, the man’s back facing her.

“Control your emotions Isa, or are you willing to completely become a beast to kill me?” his pitiable eyes.

“If that is what it takes to kill you, then I am fine with it.” The maiden turns to the man.

“Of course, after all--” the disappearing leader.

“--You made a contract with me.” Cyra stands behind her.

Isa quickly facing the being, cautiously stepping back a bit. An entity coming before the maiden in the prison, giving her a chance to claim her desire.

The young woman’s eyes on the complex contract surrounding her, its harshly glowing black sigils.

“What are you truly willing to do to claim your desires? Your sentiments say you are willing to become an enemy if you must, but can your resolve truly meet this demand?” the entity turns from Isa.

“I have stomped on everything I once followed to save Elina, but yet...some part of me wants to believe in our goal.” The maiden lowers her head.

“And who says you have to give up that goal?” Cyra folds her arms.

“What do you mean...?” Isa confusingly looks at her.

“The path of an Iconoclast is not an easy one. You must be willing to damn even your own soul to achieve what you wish, but within it. There is a small light, a light that feverishly burns. If there is a challenge in your way, you break it down, even if it slashes away at your psyche.” The person’s hand on their waist.

“I understand. To have the future I want, I have to be willing to carve it with my own hands.” Isa grabs her wrist as she slightly looks away.

“Right, and try not to forget that you are not alone. It took me many years to realize this myself.” The being faces the young woman with a faint smile at them.

“Heh, you’re much kinder than the legends say. Thank you, you helped to ease some of my troubles.” The maiden’s hands behind her back, slightly grinning at them.

An entity long ago selfishly pursuing her direction, unable to see the binding links from her efforts. Many coming back to aid her, opening her vision to their sincerity. Isa watching the being fade away, her vision soon to the velvet moon.

“I will carve a reality just for you Elina, a world where you can happily live.” Isa’s soft tone.

“Aah! Anyone! Help!” a man fearfully yells.

The young woman’s calm eyes ahead, seeing a man running in her direction. A large silver dragon giving chase, nearing the person by the moment.

Isa extending her katana, swiftly moving forward. The maiden cutting through, soon sheathing her blade. Blood spilling in the distance, the large beast lifelessly falling to the land.

“Oh thank goodness...” The person stops his movements with a sigh in relief.

“That was a close one, why are you out here?” Isa walks up to him.

“Hold on...you’re Isa. The wanted criminal, why did you save me?” the person’s shock.

“Someone I knew would be highly disappointed in me if I just turned a blind eye.” The maiden folds her arms, slightly looking away.

“Elina huh...” The man’s hand to his chin.

“You know her...?” the demon’s surprise at him.

“Yeah, I met her about half a decade ago. What I know about you is from her.” The individual’s hand behind his head.

A pure one’s connection, someone linking others within her gentle bliss. The person’s bright presence affecting individuals, bringing more into their world.

“You do know they are going to sacrifice her, right?” Isa grabs her arm, scowling to her side.

“What?” the man steps back a bit.

“The church’s ideal to stop the conflict is by using her life. It is why I became a demon, to save her.” The maiden gestures her hand to him.

“I knew the church was shady, but to think they would do something like this...” The person lowers his head.

A blade originally underneath the church’s control, an individual’s unbending sword upending many lives. A pure one’s heart setting her direction, showing the truth in the shadows.

“It does not matter what I have to do, I will save Elina. If anyone deserves to live a happy life, it is her...” Isa sadly grabs her arms.

“I agree. Elina did so much for us. Isa, I will do what I can to help from my end. We’ll get her away from their clutches.” The man folds his arms with his serious eyes on her.

“Doing so will brand you an enemy of the church, are you willing to take on that burden?” the maiden’s hand on her waist.

“For Elina? I’ll do anything, I owe my life to her. The church can take whatever they are cooking and shove it.” The person shrugs at her.

“Hah, fair enough. The Temple of Seres, that is where we are headed, and by now Armand should be well aware on our destination.” Isa gestures her hand to him.

“Alright, leave the gathering of a force to me. Elina helped a lot of us, there are countless that are willing to put down their lives to save her if it ever came to that.” The man turns from her.

“What’s your name?” Isa’s hand to her chin.

“Eden. Thanks for telling me about this, I’ll study up some more, then gather everyone for the raid on that temple.” The individual looks back to her.

“I will leave that to you then. In the mean time, I will continue to destroy their strongholds to weaken them.” Isa faces away.

“Right, that’s the plan then, until next time.” Eden seriously heads onward.

You have touched many hearts Elina, these are the type of people you have affected. None of us will idly stand-by and watch you die. Armand, he will feel our rage, what rests in the depths of our souls.

Azure Night

Chapter 4.5: Melodic Eve

Chapter 5: Sinful Emotions(Part 1)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Author’s Note:

Now that Chapter 4 has concluded, how has your experience been so far?

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Scene From Isa

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Proceeding down my path, carrying my ill feelings for a man on his throne. My desire to bring him down, to engrave my blade into him.

My presence in the thick darkness, floating in its endless space. A warm light shining forward, wrapping me in its bliss, transferring me to the flowery plane.

My soon opening eyes, looking up to the hazel one. I shortly glance to my side, the person on a bench, my head on her lap.

I shift my vision back to her, seeing her displeasure. My wandering mind, remembering our previous parting. I instantly sit up, Elina motioning for me.

“You are not getting away Isa!” the innocent person wraps her arms around me as she tightly holds on.

“Probably not the best idea, given that I have to come back here...” My uneasy voice.

“Yes, not your sharpest hour.” The azure one’s humorless eyes on me.

The bleeding moon shining down its light in the windy field, a blue energy flowing around us. Its purpose eluding me, my slight unrest at it. My vision on the pure one, her azure vision on me, someone not letting me go.

Elina speaking her mind, voicing her frustration. I remain there, cherishing our time together. The individual soon calming, looking away from me while folding her arms.

“Got it out of your system?” I faintly smile at her.

“Not entirely, I still have to do this in person.” Elina brightly grins in my direction.

“Heh, then I will do my best to ensure you can.” I gesture my hand to her.

Our two hearts meeting on a certain night, a moment setting more into my small world, bringing light into it. A pure person doing her best, teaching me a valuable lesson.

An encounter costing me my position, yet it does not matter. My desire to reclaim our simple days together, this plane giving us a bit of time with one another.

“How are you fairing on the other end?” I fold my arms.

“Shackled to my bed, Armand preparing me to fill that role each and every day.” Elina holds her arms while she lowers her head.

Hearing her sorrow, anger deeply filling me. Many admiring Armand, not aware of his true colors. Countless sitting in the palm of his hand, willfully following along his line.

The man’s powerful influence, someone acting from the shadows. A leader torturing my companion, an innocent one washing away in the crossfire. My increasing unrest, time growing shorter by the day.

“I will get there soon, and I’ll kill him. Just wait a bit longer.” My hand over her own.

“You were narrowly spared last time. If you fail, he will certainly execute you.” Elina’s concern to me.

“Then I guess I cannot fail.” I stand from the bench.

“Ugh! Why do you always do this?” the hazel one rises as she frowns at me.

My strength originally to the church, serving them as an unbending blade. My eternally haunting actions, sins forever staining my soul.

These ill sentiments within me, Elina’s clear displeasure at my choice. No matter, I will proceed, I must proceed to save her. I slightly look back to her, soon walking to the altar.

I shortly stand before the stairs, the moon floating high above. Expanding my arms to it, releasing the malice within me.

The energy absorbing into it, intensifying the azure in the place. The force soon returning to me, assimilating into my body. Its power flowing through me, my hands clenching in and out.

My swiftly moving feet, quickly leaping above, revealing my katana. I instantly descend, plunging my weapon into the land. Negative spikes piercing high, dripping its darkness to the land.

I soon stand straight, putting away my sword, the black energy fading away. My attention onward, looking at Elina, the person soon before me.

“With each offering, I gain more power. The question is, will it be enough to kill that man?” my eyes to my hand.

“Only you will know that...” Elina sadly looks away as she holds her upper arm.

“I suppose so. I know this is hard for you to endure, what I am doing. Though, all I ask is to trust in me...” My vision to her.

“I never did stop trusting in you, it just worries me a lot when you are in danger.” The pure one softly smiles at me.

A faithful person believing in me, no matter my choices. An innocence underneath the twilight, her wide heart reaching me, bringing something invaluable into my empty world.

My desire for our simple days together, to truly relish in these warm feelings again. I shortly stand on my side, extending my hand to her.

Some time remaining with us, my wish to make the most of it. The young woman’s tender expression on me, soon taking hold of my hand. Both of us moving into the flowery field, dancing in the dusk.

“It is not just me, there are a few others helping me. They are strange, but I think you will like them.” I faintly smile at her.

“Is that so? I can’t wait to meet them, I am glad you can be happy.” Elina brightly grins at me.

“Hardly. I will be happy when you are safe.”

Our slow movements in the quiet space, enjoying the other’s presence. These blissful sentiments in the area, the flowing streams along our road.

A pure one coming into my life, setting a new path. One filling with love, always doing her best. My wish for her joy, pushing onward in the feverish fire. Our soon brightening surroundings, my sleepy state, my desire to hold on for a bit longer.

The area slowly blurring, a strange force pulling me away. Even if I am to be an enemy, I will gladly accept it, if it means her freedom.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Isa: It matters not if I am an enemy, your happiness is of most importance.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Azure Night

Chapter 4: A Heart's Desire(Conclusion)

Chapter 4.6: Melodic Link

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Days from the past, a maiden leading their way unaware of the truth. An individual believing in her direction, skillfully performing her duties.

Many idolizing her, wishing to meet her line. A person choosing to minimize contact, yet one entering into her world, bringing more into its small space.

At the time, the soldier walking through the quiet dusk in her black armor. Her eyes slightly to some people passing by, soon shifting it to the buildings around her.

The maiden looking to the fountain, seeing trees surrounding the structure. Isa eventually making her way to the cathedral, her vision on the strong pillars on opposite ends.

The soldier ascending up the long stairs, heading through the parallel benches within the building, candles lighting the direction. Isa standing before her commander, a man in his thirties in shining white armor.

“The threats have been eliminated, but I did notice a bit of something. That it almost seems coordinated, which is strange. I tried looking into it, but came up empty-handed.” Isa’s fist to her chest, saluting him.

“I see, well done. The strange occurrence will be evaluated on our end, you can submit a more thorough report later.” His hand to his chin.

“I will do so first thing tomorrow.” The soldier nods her agreement.

“Very well, but there is something I wish to ask you.” The man folds his arms.

“What is it?” the maiden slightly tilts her head at him.

An individual rising through her ranks, effectively performing her tasks. The person’s great devotion, fulfilling her duties without failure. One taking notice of her changes, deeply thinking on the next step forward.

“Are you truly fine with endangering yourself like this?” the Commander gestures his hand to her.

“I do not understand what you mean...” The maiden’s confusion to him.

“Isa...I have known you since your days as a grunt. For the longest while, you severed connections. You found it a hindrance, and focused on your job. Though, the shift in your schedule, and how you spend your time now. It is one thing to go out there, with no one to return to. It is another to do so, knowing there is someone.” The person’s calm voice.

A man witnessing her drive, an unbending blade coldly bringing down countless enemies. His mind on the developing changes, tracking the shift in her sword.

Two meeting underneath the crimson light, a pure person showing an icy heart another side to reality.

“This is why, I would like you to perform your duties on the inside.” The man’s arms in a thinking posture.

Words ringing through her, the maiden uneasily grabbing her wrist. An individual starting low, patrolling the town without a name.

A small chance falling into her hands, her fearsome strategy forging a devastating miracle. Glory coming to her, a person quickly ascending up the ranks. Her commander teaching her much, making her position a possibility.

“My use is much more out there than in here, you know this...” Isa’s unease.

“I agree, but there are ways to help without constantly worrying Elina.” The man’s hand on his waist.

“You are getting the wrong idea here. What’s more, I didn’t come this far just to be shoved back to a grunt!” Isa furiously swings out her arm.

A person choosing to seal off her heart, devoting herself to her cause. Her hard efforts to gain acknowledgment, going beyond to rise to a level far above others. A pure one eventually entering into her life, creating a small pierce in her armor.

“Word travels Isa. I’ve known you for a long time now, and you’re much more than a grunt. I will not let you throw away your life, for a cause that is likely to never end. You have done enough, now it is time for you to venture down a new direction in your life.” The man calmly closes his eyes.

“Y—you can’t be serious here...” The maiden dreadfully steps away.

“My decision is final. However, keep up with your training, in case a significant threat arises.” The Commander opens his vision as he seriously looks at her.

His deeply striking words to her, the maiden feeling her collapsing world. A breaking blade, unable to unsheathe herself.

The maiden’s talents bringing her far, these chains holding her down. Isa facing away, furiously walking off. The soldier soon finding herself outside at the bottom of the stairs, holding in her emotions.

Isa spotting a nearing presence, her eyes on Elina. The person shortly standing before them in a grey top, their black dress wrapping below.

“What happened?” Elina’s hand to her chest in concern.

“My duties have been shifted to this town...” The soldier frustratingly looks away.

Everything slipping out of the maiden’s hands, a person unable to understand her commander’s decision. An individual bringing glory to the church, her relentless steel crushing countless.

A weapon cutting down innumerable, her cold heart pushing out others. A certain night bringing a change, shaping her way forward. The hazel one’s slight relief, yet unable to accept it.

“Why...? You love this work, and you never fail them...” Elina sadly looks below.

The maiden’s angrily beating chest, trying to rationalize the choice. A person connecting to one, Elina bringing more into her life, a soldier still devoting herself to their cause.

Isa thinking on her pattern, the adjustments in her schedule, an individual continuing to effectively complete her tasks. The maiden soon stressfully sighs, her hand behind her head.

“Never-mind this, what are you doing here?” Isa calms a bit.

“Oh...I...just came to make a report...” Elina grimly grabs her upper arm as she slightly looks away.

“I guess I’ll join you, nothing else to do at the moment.” The maiden folds her arms with her attention above.

“You sure...?” the girl marginally looks at the soldier.

“Honestly, I think I will try to convince the commander to reconsider his stance.” Isa turns from her.

One never stopping, feverishly pushing onward. A soul refusing to quietly die, declining to idly sit-by. The innocent girl standing there, keeping her sentiments within her. Elina’s hand on her chest, containing her frustration, not stopping her companion.

“Right, maybe he will change his decision...” The pure person’s sad voice.

One walking along her road, another trailing behind with their aching heart. An unlikely meeting between them changing their course, setting forward something else in the endless waves. Elina enduring the agony in her, following her companion up the stairs.

The two soon before the commander, Isa’s stern eyes on him. The pure one making her report, the other facing away.

“Well done Elina, and Isa. I have decided on what would be a more fitting job for you.” The man folds his arms.

The maiden facing him, Elina feeling the tension in the air. A person’s rank riding on the line, the girl quietly bearing witness to the development.

A bond linking two, Isa cherishing the girl, yet her feverishly burning desire towards her path.

“You were always hard on others to ensure Elina’s safety, am I right?” the man folds his arms.

“Elina is not equipped for the type of jobs we do, so yes, I will be hard on them to make sure she is fine.” The maiden gestures her hand to him.

“Right, she does a wide range of jobs from within. Which is why, I think it will be a good idea for you to be her guard, to protect her while she is out there.” The Commander’s light vision on the soldier.

A commander not changing his position, confining her to her home. An individual choosing to be a sword, carrying her pieces in a shaking situation.

The man witnessing her slow changes, wishing for something more for her. Elina looking at her companion, watching them refuse to back down.

“Why are you doing this? I do not understand...answer me!” Isa stomps on the floor.

A person working hard, everything slipping out of her hands, someone unable to understand her superior’s position. The man holding his ground, his calm posture towards her. The commander shortly glancing to the girl, seeing her sadness.

Elina grabbing her upper arm, her low head. One not realizing their words, crushing a precious individual underneath their weight. The commander soon looking to Isa, guiding her in his own way.

“In time you will figure it out, trust me.” The man’s slight smile at her.

An unbelievable occurrence stripping away her hold, casting her deep in the abyss. A person unable to move forward, nothing around her. Isa lowering her head, gripping her arms, the maiden’s shaking body.

Isa heavily breathing, trying to contain her temper. The commander heading onward, passing the two, shortly leaving the place. Those friends alone with each other in the silent area, Elina biting her lower lip, soon carefully proceeding.

“Sorry...I am causing you so much trouble...” The girl sadly looks away.

A heart’s deep wish within, yet another bringing something else into her world. The maiden standing in the darkness, Elina behind her as they grab their arms.

One watching her companion constantly walk into the fires of destruction, continuously worrying about them.

A small encounter leading to a new actuality between them, setting a different route for them. Isa slightly lowering herself, moving up to the pure one, the girl’s vision on them.

The maiden looking away for a bit, shortly returning her attention to those azure eyes. Isa extending her hands, grabbing her friend’s own, Elina’s quickly beating chest.

“I am sorry...I did not mean it like that, it is a lot for me at once. Though, since it is you, I think everything will be fine.” Isa’s soft smile.

An uncertain path before the maiden, her words bringing some happiness to the girl. One devoting herself to the sword, her blade shattering into pieces.

Something else coming from it, a new direction before her. Elina walking to her companion’s side, looping her arm around their own. The two heading onward, Isa listening to the bright girl.

Commander...I finally understand. I didn’t know what I had...until I lost her. I spent my life being a sword, and when I broke, only then did I find my way. Elina...sorry...for the problems I caused you…

Azure Night

Chapter 4: A Heart's Desire(Part 2)

Chapter 4.5: Melodic Eve

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Two existing together in the simple days, relishing in the other’s warmth. Their current separation pulling at their psyche, both yearning to return to each other. Elina’s increasing abilities, sensing her companion from afar.

The person’s deep wish, hoping for the demon’s safety. At the time, Isa, Zeke, and the woman far in the woods. The maiden’s hand on her chin, carefully looking at her surroundings.

“Ellis, you okay?” the young man’s eyes to her.

“Yeah...I just feel bad that I can’t do anything...” The woman sadly grabs her arms.

“Hey, if it is any consolation. I screwed up, and can’t do anything as well. Sorry about that...” Zeke embarrassingly holds the back of his head.

“Think nothing of it you two, I am at fault as well. No matter, this is merely another obstacle.” Isa’s hand on her waist.

A few souls in the terrible woods, feeling the chilling breeze on them. The intriguing structure around the three, its strange patterns everywhere. Ellis stepping forward, noting the layout.

“I know this is not the time for this. Though, have you lot noticed the design of the forest? It looks to be taking inspiration from the eastern continent.” The woman’s bright smile as she raises her index finger.

“Eastern? Now that you mentioned it, it does have a similar layout somewhat.” Zeke’s arms in a thinking posture.

“The church figured the eastern continent had some fascinating designs that could help them. As a result, it was implemented here. This was before they dominated the world itself.” Isa’s eyes to the sky.

“Right, the eastern continent houses some of the more interesting technological advancements. Some of which is enhanced by the mere layout. This essentially means, now that we know where it takes inspiration from, we can find our way out. I wonder how I didn’t notice this before!” Ellis happily sways from left to right.

“Haha, you seem to really like this stuff.” The young man laughs.

“Of course! I guess I was too panicked to notice. I have to thank you both, if not meeting you two, I’d likely have still been blind to it.” The woman’s pleasant grin at them.

Three beneath the crimson light, enduring the chilling night. Two pleasant voices in the space, Isa listening to them, thinking back to her past. A slight smile to her face, remembering her experiences with her partner.

The few soon stopping, an azure flower catching Ellis’ attention. The woman kneeling to it, extending her hand. Isa grabbing her friend’s wrist, their confusing action to the person.

“Please, do not touch this...”

“Okay...” Ellis slightly tilts her head at them.

The person soon rising, uncertainly stepping away from the maiden. Zeke looking away a bit, feeling the young woman’s cold presence, his mind on the cathedral.

Isa shortly kneeling to the object, distantly resting her eyes on it. The demon touching it, watching it disintegrate. Its blue energy surrounding her, hearing her partner’s voice.

It has been so long since I had a rest, these terrains being too much. Falling a few times, those whipping me back up. The pain I feel does not compare to that of our parting. This place, these people. I know...these are not those you devoted your life to protect. I just wish...we can be together again. Please...be safe, Isa...

The pure sentiments from one spilling in the area, setting a scene to the place. Ellis and Zeke watching, seeing Elina trip, the innocent one falling on the land.

A whip striking down, harshly hitting her back. The person enduring the pain, scowling at Armand in front of her.

“We do not have time to dally, there are places to be. You will have to endure it.” The man slightly looks away.

“You...you know Isa never fought for any of this! She truly believed in everything you taught! She strived to make your reality an actuality! And you crush her devotion like this...” The girl rises to her knees.

“You! Stay silent!” another raises his whip.

Three enduring the sight, unable to do anything but watch. Their boiling sentiments, hearing Elina’s fury. Armand unsheathing his blade, unleashing his shockwave, hitting away the people around the girl.

“I do not ask for forgiveness. Not from you, not from Isa. This is the sin I have to bear, and you will help with that.” The leader turns from her.

A man pursuing his path, enduring the weight crushing down on his shoulders. A few around Elina pulling her to her feet, forcing her onward through the woods.

A heart speaking what is within, withstanding the agony on her body and soul. Isa lowering her head, Zeke and Ellis sadly looking to her.

The shortly fading scene, yet one thing remaining. The maiden hearing her companion’s message, distantly following their directions for the woods. The friends soon making their way out, eventually standing on a grassy path.

“Finally out, but how did you know?” Zeke folds his arms.

“She showed me the way out...” The maiden slightly looks away.

“It must have been hard to watch that. Who was she?” Ellis grimly steps forward, her hand to her chest.

A precious person to the demon’s heart, their purpose to fight against the church. An individual betting on the smallest chance, enduring the pressure crushing at her soul. The young woman shortly sighing, facing the two with her.

“Elina is her name, someone who is very important to me. As you can guess, the church has her captive, it has been this way for four years...” Isa gestures her hand to them, looking away a bit.

“Similarly to yourself, my reason is pretty much the same for my hatred of the church.” Zeke props his arms behind his head.

“I was trying to warn about the church, with some evidence at that. However, I was chased into those woods, and the proof got destroyed by them. If you are going up against them, then I can have more confidence, so count me in.” Ellis faintly smiles.

Each sharing a similar goal, their path against the church. A small few in the face of a giant, their hearts guiding their way onward.

One amongst them, her feverish conviction setting ablaze their path. The maiden giving up her humanity, spearing her direction forward, her willingness to pay any price.

A certain person in her mind, the maiden’s wish to bring them back into her arms. Isa’s attention on the woods, extending her blade afar. Her companions eyes on her, witnessing her leaping high.

Darkness violently releasing from her, the demon unleashing her fury. A heart crying out, crashing her negativity into a barrier, shattering it.

Isa shredding the earth, setting it in flames. The young woman soon landing on the ground, calmly turning from the sight. The maiden making her way forward, Zeke and Ellis following behind her.

She knew me better than anyone else. These are not the people I devoted my life for, these are but beasts for me to slay. Wait for me Elina, I am nearing you with each passing day...

Azure Night

Chapter 4: A Heart's Desire(Part 1)

Chapter 4: A Heart's Desire(Conclusion)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Purely flowing sentiments, the maiden’s slight smile in the endless space. Two souls pleasantly with the other, having a small moment in a strange place.

A decision setting their path, the young woman unraveling a sickening truth, choosing to challenge their leader. A person overwhelming her, her companion falling into their grasp.

Isa awakening in the woods sitting up, her arms around her leg, the many trees surrounding her. A fire burning nearby, Zeke’s eyes on it. An unfriendly terrain around them, bugs and smaller animals in the damp parts.

“Ah good, you’re awake, want something to eat?” the young man looks at her with his hand behind his head.

“Since giving up my humanity, I do not feel hunger...” The demon slightly looks away.

“Weird, but I suppose it might have something to do with the situation.” Zeke folds his arms with his vision below.

A contract stripping away her humanity, leaving her with a small chance in her hands. A devil embracing her selfish direction, refusing to stay quiet.

The maiden walking along her black road, reaching for the slim light at the end. The trailing shadowy hands around her, her sounding soul in its dark depths.

Her desire to apologize to her partner, soon falling to her knees in the abyss. The devil lowering her head, frustratingly pounding the ground.

“I do not care what price I have to pay. Even if...it does not matter, so long as she is safe...” Isa slightly looks away.

“I...understand why you are doing this, your reason.” Zeke’s vision to his side.

A former member resisting the reason of another, following her normal emotions. The young woman steadily understanding more, the terror of her actions underneath their command.

Her wish for a tiny miracle, to save a precious person to her heart no matter the cost. The maiden pushing onward in her direction, committing atrocities along her line.

Isa and Zeke soon noticing movements from a distance, their eyes to a woman coming into view. Her long crimson hair tying back, an individual in a velvet top and brown bottom.

“You got to be joking, I am back here again?!” the person furiously holds her hands to her chest.

“Ah...something wrong...?” Zeke gestures his hand to her.

“Huh?” surprise from the woman.

An unlikely encounter in the dusk, a chance meeting beneath the crimson light. A moon cursing those underneath it, yet bringing more within its gleam. The woman approaching the two, soon standing by the fire.

“I have been trying to get out of these woods for hours...” The woman sighs as her hand covers her face.

The person’s gripping words, Zeke taking out the map, carefully trailing his finger along the points. The archer’s attention shortly on his surroundings, soon scowling a bit. The young man slapping his forehead, frustratingly sighing.

“I made a mistake, these woods are a trap by the church...” Zeke taps his finger on the map.

“Explain a bit more.” Isa’s serious eyes on him.

“These woods are a place where they get rid of their enemies. To get out, we will have to solve a bit of a complex puzzle.” The archer punches the ground at his side.

The demon’s mind on his words, remembering a bit on it. A deadly place to avoid, her own error wrapping them in the mess.

Many wandering in its vast depths, succumbing to the temptation of death. A person once underneath the church’s grasp, her time in prison widening her vision.

“If I try to level this place from within, it will be absorbed and redirected at me.” Isa folds her arms while she slightly looks down.

“What? So you mean we got to solve this deathtrap?” the woman whines as she lowers herself in disappointment.

“Sadly so...” The young man’s hand behind his head.

Two walking into a trap, falling into the harsh clutches of the church. A great challenge before the maiden, her feverish will against her test.

The young woman’s desire to apologize to another, wishing to bring her partner back to her. In a land from afar, a massive structure standing proud on its pillars.

The quiet evening in the place, from inside, passing along the benches. Statues in the corners, Armand sitting in front of the goddess’ figure.

“How will you escape this, Isa?” the leader’s interest.

One with great talent originally making her way through the ranks, an individual’s immense potential scarring her image into many.

The person’s unwavering resolve, raising her blade to her former allies. From above, in a room away from the rest.

Elina sitting on a bed, her wrist chaining to it, some filth on her brown dress. The innocent one’s eyes to the window, worrying about her partner.

“Isa...”

Two hearts in the past, their presence out in the woods underneath the warm sun. Small animals running by, some looking in their direction. Elina leading the way, smiling back at her companion.

“Okay-okay, I get it. Though, you really shouldn’t be putting yourself in so much danger.” The maiden’s hand behind her head as she slightly smiles at them.

“You’re one to talk, always worrying me out there. Either way, this is why I requested for you, I know this job can get more dangerous than usual.” Elina grabs her arms with her eyes ahead.

“It is my job, you know. I just can’t avoid being in constant danger, you on the other hand actually have the choice.” Isa sighs.

“I know...I just want to do my part...” The girl looks away with a grim expression.

“I suppose this is just you. Just...when you work jobs like these, please ensure to get me. The last time, it didn’t sit right with me that you acted as the bait out there.” The young woman’s vision to her side.

The maiden’s suspicion, someone searching through the records, finding chilling information. An individual’s desperate movements, racing to find a precious person in the dusk.

“You really don’t trust others huh...” Elina sadly looks below.

“I didn’t get where I am because I trusted people. I got to my current position, because I am decisive and can trust myself. There are only two I can say I can trust, and that is you and Aiden. Even then, I wouldn’t bet on him to keep you safe out here.” Isa’s vision to her companion.

“Don’t you think you’re being a bit overprotective?” the girl slightly smiles at the person.

“Maybe...” Isa blushes a bit with eyes above.

“I will do what I can to lessen your worries, but you have to try and do the same.” Elina giggles a bit.

“Heh, fair enough.” The maiden gestures her hand to the pure one while she mildly grins at them.

Azure Night

Chapter 3.5: Innocence in the Eve

Chapter 4: A Heart's Desire(Part 2)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Scene From Isa

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

A commander’s decision setting more into my life, an action still with me. Unable to quell the fury in my heart, my failure to defeat Armand sweeping away an innocent one in the madness.

Floating in the darkness, my growing unrest. Thinking on the worst, wishing to bring her away from it. A pure person continuously suffering, someone always doing her best.

I open my eyes, looking to the bright light ahead. Reaching forward my hand, its presence enveloping me in its warmth.

Finding myself in the flowery field on this raining night, some azure energy in the air. The bleeding moon in the sky, my unrest at the occurrence around me.

Making my way onward, looking to the hazel one. A black nightwear on her, the person in front of the bench. I shortly stand before her, her sullen welcome to me.

“How do you feel about the actions you are taking?” Elina looks away while she holds her upper arm.

“Difficult, but it is necessary in order to save you. If I have to burn down the land, then I will.” My hand on my waist.

“I guess I should have expected this response. It is funny huh...just how fragile the heart can be. Resilient at first, but then so easily taken apart.” Her gentle eyes on me.

“Yeah...” I distantly shift my vision to my side.

Feeling the rain hit against me, the cold blowing breeze in the area. My vision on my direction, not allowing anyone to quell my soul.

My presence originally part of their ranks, our diverging roads setting our routes. One holding countless support in his hands, my need to meet his height, to oppose his reason.

“Sorry, I am aware this is something you wouldn’t want to happen. Selfish I am, I know. Though, I will not let you become a tool for Armand’s delusion.” My gaze to her.

“Now that I think about it, this is just like you. Always worrying me, always head strong, believing in your course.” Elina’s faint smile at me.

“And this is another reason for you to live, right? So you can properly scold me.” My bright grin at her.

“Hehe, I suppose so. Just...if anything, remain the way I have always known you, no matter your path.” The azure one’s hands behind her back.

“That, I can promise.” I gesture my hand to her.

My decision in the past, the raining sorrow reflecting its everlasting sentiments. Always worrying her, arrowing forward towards my goal.

Deeply holding onto my beliefs, carrying out the will within me. My world eventually crashing down, these pieces remaining in my hands.

Two of us in this space, relishing in the presence of one another. I shortly move past her, soon standing in front of the stairs.

Malice seeping from my body, its pulsing force in the strange realm. I expand my arms, releasing the black power above. The dark energy flowing to the moon, sinking into it.

Its increasing malevolence, the object soon returning energy to me. A great power assimilating into my body, strongly flowing through me.

I grab my katana, holding it to the front. Azure negativity racing along its length, pulsing immense emotions from it. I feel Elina’s approach, soon putting away my blade, shortly facing her.

“With each offering, you draw closer to bringing ruin.” The innocent one’s conflicting tone.

“Makes you think huh, the reason for the Iconoclast’s path. I feel it was a very simple one...” Some sadness from me with my hands behind my back.

“Laying ruin to countless, all for her deepest desire. That demon being the one you formed your contract with.” Elina’s attention slightly away as she turns from me.

A strange demon coming to me in my time of dying, offering me a contract to save a precious one to my heart. Their warmth still with me, a powerful ancient resolve emitting through countless years.

My own blind faith creating my form, yet the past making a bit more sense to me. I shortly move forward, wrapping my arms around Elina, holding her in my embrace.

“Whatever sins I must endure, I will. So, please do not feel sadness for this. Instead, look ahead to the many things you will be able to do.” My soft voice to her.

“The many things huh...you really are a bad influence. These simple emotions, they are worth pursuing.” Elina’s eyes to me as she smiles a bit.

“Heh, a bad influence? You sure it is me? I mean, you can be quite cunning, this situation and all.” I teasingly whisper into her ear.

The pure one facing me, her hands to her chest in displeasure. I slowly back up, witnessing her anger to me, the pleasant old days to my heart.

The steadily brightening area around us, a tiring feeling coming over me, this perfect time. The descending rain in the azure, Elina pointing at me. I quickly run away from her, my loud laughter, hearing her furious tone.

“You are not getting away that easily Isa!” the hazel one chases after me.

“I’ll be checking out now! Bye!” my spirit fading into the light.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Isa: I can still draw out some of the cutest responses from you.

Elina: Just wait until next time, Isa...

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Author’s Note:

Here we are at the end of the third chapter. Like, comment, and tell me about your experience at this point.

Anything you like? If you have questions, then please feel free to ask.

Azure Night

Chapter 3: Eternal Sin(Conclusion)

Chapter 4: A Heart's Desire(Part 1)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Endlessly flowing feelings in the old days, two intersecting paths setting forward a new actuality. Their meeting underneath the crimson light, those small words leading to something more over the passing time.

A deepening relationship, their happiness with one another. The warm shining sun at the harbor the current day, Elina checking off a list.

The person wearing a grey coat and red shirt, black shorts on her. Her companion Isa in a dark top, the individual fashioning long blue jeans.

“Still have quite a bit to go, thanks for volunteering as my guard today.” Elina smiles at her.

“Knowing your luck, you are likely to run into trouble.” Isa gestures her hand to the girl.

“What? Not true!” the person pouts as she moves up to the maiden.

A rare innocence in the miserable world, an individual purely shining within the everlasting light. The girl’s hands on her waist, raising her chest in displeasure to her companion, voicing her reliableness to them.

An idea coming to Isa’s mind, the maiden swiftly moving behind the innocent one, grabbing their wrists. The maiden raising Elina’s arms a bit, leaning close to them, whispering into the girl’s ear.

“I am finding it difficult to believe, this situation and all...” Isa teases the hazel one.

“Th—this is your doing, not mine!” Elina’s slightly red face as she quickly breaks away.

The laughing maiden stepping back a bit, one riling up the azure one. The girl’s hastily beating chest, yelling at her friend in anger. Elina shortly facing away, furiously gripping her arms, looking away a bit.

A person witnessing another’s adorable scenarios, choosing to push the line. Both growing closer over the passing time, their aligning hearts.

Isa walking up to the girl, placing a hand on their shoulder. Elina hitting it away, frustratingly moving ahead, trying to settle the thumping in her chest.

“Okay-okay, I am sorry haha.” Isa races after her.

“Hmph! Jerk...” The pure one closes her eyes while she folds her arms.

A gentle soul bringing more into the maiden’s life, showing her another side. Isa embracing in its simplicity, flowing along in its endless waves.

An individual having a hard time at first, eventually steadily adjusting, finding bliss in her interactions.

The maiden apologizing to her friend, Elina refusing to listen. Some passing time, both dropping off some supplies at a store.

Isa witnessing her companion’s many jobs, one never stopping, constantly moving onto the next. A person always doing their best, the maiden admiring it.

The two soon standing in front of a flower-shop, the girl folding her arms in displeasure, her vision away.

“Alright, how can I make it up to you?” Isa’s hand behind her head.

“Hmm...” Elina’s finger to her chin.

Deeply beating sentiments, the maiden stirring her emotions, bringing out more by pressing her buttons. Two in the flowing streams, breaking away from the rest, relishing in one another’s presence.

The hazel individual thinking for a bit, an idea soon coming to her mind. The pure one shifting her eyes to her friend, holding her hands behind her back.

“You have to volunteer to be my guard more often. If you do, I will let that incident slide.” Elina brightly smiles at them.

“Well...there goes my days off...” Isa lowers herself with a sigh.

“Hehe.” The girl giggles.

Two sides in the maiden’s life, a person adjusting her schedule, creating more time for a precious one.

An innocent person bringing them along on their ventures, showing the maiden more each encounter. Elina walking up to Isa’s side, looping her arm around their own, leading them onward.

The two chatting away the time, completing a few more tasks along the way. A topic soon coming up, one catching the girl’s interest, both shortly stopping in an alley.

“What happens in the church by the way? Been curious for a while. You know, the more deeper stuff.” Elina presses her finger against her cheek.

“Cannot say for sure. My rank is high, but not that high.” Isa’s hand behind her head.

“It just has me thinking you know, why be so secretive?” the girl slightly looks away.

“You do have a point. Though, it is the faith everyone has that keep things going.” The maiden’s eyes to the sky.

“Right...” Elina’s faint smile with her vision above.

Secrets in the depths, a place putting their faith in the unshakable church. The maiden’s mind on the strange barriers, shortly spotting movements from the shadows.

Isa facing behind, seeing bandits step out from the alley. Elina alarmingly covering her mouth, quickly moving back a bit. The few surrounding them, revealing their weapons.

“Come quietly now.” One’s sharp eyes on them.

“I have to thank you for saving me the trouble of an additional job later on.” Isa grabs her katana.

The maiden calmly standing still, releasing a powerful wave of energy. Isa crushing the enemies around her, their quivering hearts at her. A foe stepping forward a bit, uneasily looking at her.

“You fool! This is Isa, rumors have it that she might even be a match for Armand himself...” The man’s trembling voice.

“She’s a big shot in the church as well?” another’s shock.

“Yeah, she’s equivalent to a small army at least. Fall back, this is suicide!” the second person moves back a bit.

“And what makes you think you will be escaping? You all will be lucky to still be alive at the end of our exchange.” The maiden’s slightly serious eyes to them.

An individual ascending through the ranks, crushing her enemies with fear. Isa slightly moving feet, soon bursting through. The maiden linking her path, spilling blood in the distance.

The high rank shortly standing still behind her friend, sheathing her blade. The bandits collapsing on the ground, red liquid spreading in the place. Isa taking out her phone, relaying information to the church.

“The church will be here shortly.” The soldier faces the girl as she puts away her phone.

“That was scary...” Some tears to Elina’s eyes with her hands to her chest.

“So long as I am here, you will be fine. And as I said, knowing your luck, you are likely to run into trouble.” Isa teases the azure one.

“Th—this does not count!” the girl yells at her companion.

Two souls beneath the warm sun, relishing in simple experiences. The laughing person boiling the girl’s blood, hearing their displeasure.

Isa’s desire to protect them, keeping these sentiments firmly in her. An idea coming to the maiden’s mind, the high rank smiling a bit, soon walking up to her friend.

The maiden quickly slipping behind the innocent one, grabbing their wrists. Elina uneasily glancing back, her trembling body. Isa raising her companion’s hands a bit, whispering into their ear.

“You can yell at me some more, or we can use this moment and go somewhere much nicer.” Isa’s sly smile at her.

“Y—you...jerk!!!” Elina screams out with a red face as her heart hastily beats.

Two meeting underneath the crimson moon, these simply flowing sentiments in their blissful days. The maiden unable to resist, bringing out a certain response.

Companions riding along the endless waves, steadily moving ahead. Their different personalities linking them, pushing forward something more.

How I used to love teasing you, it brought out the most adorable reactions. Now...those times are gone. I cherished our days together, those memories forever being to my heart. Elina...I am coming, we will continue where we left off...

Azure Night

Chapter 3: Eternal Sin(Part 2)

Chapter 3.5: Innocence in the Eve

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Eternally clawing sentiments, those nice days firmly inside the young woman. Her wish to grasp them again, enduring the weight crushing down on her.

Enemies commanding the board, their hands containing secrets in the shadows. Isa’s mind on her time with them, someone ripping away livelihoods, crushing the dreams of others.

The maiden steadily understanding their will to be free, carrying the burden on her shoulders. The demon rising to her feet, turning from Zeke.

“Let us go, I have a task for you to fulfill.” Isa’s distant mood as she puts her hand on her waist.

Forever guiding memories, the precious days in the maiden’s heart. Her desire to save another, choosing to endure the possible price of her contract.

The two heading out, making their way into the vast field. Zeke standing out in the center, his body lining with bait.

“Remind me again why I am live bait? Aren’t you the demon?!” Zeke looks back to her in a panic, seeing her from afar.

“Why not?! I figured since you were so good at outrunning the church, this will be your strong point!” Isa grabs her arm as she slightly smiles at him.

“What kinda logic is that you psychopath?!” the young man’s dismay.

“Don’t forget to look appetizing! The faster we draw them, the better!” the maiden turns to her side.

“I suppose I should have expected this at some point...” The person lowers himself in fear.

An eternal conviction burning from the depths, the maiden’s resolve to push forward in the feverish inferno.

A person betting on another, shortly feeling the shaking land. Enormous monsters charging at Zeke, the young man bolting past Isa.

“As expected, now I better do my part.” Isa’s slight grin.

A heart’s great determination, refusing to remain quiet. The maiden racing onward, malice surrounding her left arm. Isa quickly grabbing the young man with her right, leaping far into the air.

The devil sharply releasing the negative energy, hearing the creatures loud screeches. The monsters ramming into the gate, breaking down the barrier.

Many rushing ahead, countless people screaming. Isa and Zeke heading in, watching the unfolding terror. Rubble everywhere, small fires in the distance.

Blood painting the land, scars on the buildings. The monsters ripping away at the inhabitants, spreading their lifeless corpses on the earth. A boar soon charging at a child, their horrific eyes on it.

Zeke quickly drawing his bow, immediately firing an arrow. The attack piercing the enemy, instantly dropping it to the ground.

“I did what I had to...” The young man turns, lowering his head.

“That is fine, let us hurry before the damage worsens.” Isa gestures her arm onward.

One selfishly pursuing her direction, racing in the darkness, avoiding the shadowy hands. Innumerable wrapping in the raging madness, Isa’s powerfully sounding soul in the terror, reaching for the slim light at the end.

Zeke glancing back to the maiden, seeing two sides to her. One feverishly seeking after her goal, the other still containing softness.

The two companions soon moving onward, witnessing the guards combatting the creatures. Both making their way to a cathedral, the structure proudly standing.

Stairs leading upward, pillars keeping up the place. A commander standing in the open area, his ashen hair and black eyes, someone in his late thirties.

“Isa, breaking out of that prison. Wounding Aiden, killing a pope, setting that city ablaze. Creating this current madness. Those deeds are worth a punishment beyond death...” The man slightly looks away.

“Then bring whatever punishment you have. If it is for her, I will endure it.” Isa turns her head a bit as she glares at him.

“Elina huh, heh. You were always someone who gave it your all in whatever you do, I suppose it is no surprise you will go this far for her.” The Commander faintly smiles at her.

“I will do anything necessary to bring her home, to ensure she is safe.” The maiden folds her arms.

Two separating for years, unable to embrace in the other’s presence. An opportunity in the maiden’s hand, her desire to bring one back into her arms. A contract allowing her to proceed, her form reflecting her resolve.

Zeke glancing to the demon, understanding more about her. Isa shortly directing her sword to her far left, catching her companion’s attention. The young man’s eyes to the containers of oil nearby, soon carefully moving to the area.

“Our duty is not with the life of one, but the life of countless. Have you forgotten this Isa?!” the man’s sword afar.

“The life of countless? I cannot care less, all that matters is Elina.” Isa’s hand to her chest.

The maiden truly displaying her emotions, sharply looking at the man. A commander once in her life, guiding her down her direction.

Zeke rushing onward, leaping over an approaching enemy. The archer flipping high above, rapidly firing his arrows. Many shots plunging into the barrels, spilling the oil in the field.

“Isa...you should have just told me...” The archer’s eyes on his targets below.

One coming into the young woman’s life, bringing down her barrier. An unlikely intersection setting more into her empty world, those memories leading her onward, pushing her along the feverish waves.

The demon not allowing for Elina’s sacrifice, shouting her soul in the black abyss. Isa’s swift movements, rapidly colliding against her ex-commander.

The young woman quickly slipping to his side, deflecting his attack. The devil hastily moving in, connecting her blade into his own, strongly pushing against him.

“A demon, that is what you chose to become. A monster you used to slay!” the Commander’s severe voice.

“If that is what it takes to bring Elina home, then it is fine. It was my fault she got caught up in this, and I do not plan for her to die for it as well!” the maiden’s fury.

“You and Elina were close, almost inseparable. I don’t want her to die too, but it is one life that could set us all free.” The man painfully looks at her.

“Set us free? I highly doubt it. And even if we could be free of the endless conflict, I would rather be enslaved by it than to lose her.” Isa’s sharp tone.

One embracing the darkness at her depths, secreting malice from her body. A heart not allowing a precious person to die, unleashing the fury in her soul.

The maiden breaking away from the man, hastily spinning, slamming her sword into his weapon again. The commander’s unrest, thinking on her message.

Both rapidly colliding against one another, the two circling the other. The man’s blade narrowly passing her back, instantly sweeping his weapon off the land, hitting her backward on her feet.

Isa immediately bursting through, critically crashing into him, sending him back on his feet. The oil nearing by the moment, reflecting the demon’s great hatred.

“I know how much you love her. Though, is it really worth it? To give up your humanity, to shackle yourself in the never ending conflict? To not see your goal to reality?” the Commander’s grim eyes to her.

“Yes, if it means she can live, for her to be free. Elina did so much for everyone, even someone like me. You cannot tell me that you can just standby and take this easy damn way out.” Isa’s agony to him.

“You were always one to take the hardest path if necessary...” The man slightly looks away.

The thickly spreading oil, the man’s eyes on the surroundings, shortly looking to her. The commander seeing her arm secreting thick azure fire, its pulsing heat in the place. Isa raising her hand, releasing the massive negative force.

The maiden setting the field ablaze, unleashing the devastating power, wrapping the cathedral and buildings in the hellish inferno.

The fire closing in on her ex-commander, her eyes on him putting away his sword. A person’s decision bringing more into the young woman’s life, these sentiments pulling at her. The maiden’s quickly moving feet, piercing through the fiery barrier.

The man’s vision on her, witnessing someone diving into the darkness, extending her hand to him. Isa grabbing him, pulling him from the jaws of death. The two soon standing from afar, his uncertainty to her.

“I am still grateful to you. However, this is the only time I will save you. Carefully think on what you believe, and if you can really allow Elina to die, someone you went to save yourself. She is someone so pure who gave her all for the church, who affected many lives.” Isa turns from him.

“Yeah...I know that...” The man lowers his head.

“This is all for now. If we meet again as enemies, I will not hesitate to kill you.” The demon walks off.

Towering fiery walls devouring the area, the immense flames lashing away at the place. The young woman calmly heading through, soon stopping.

Her eyes on an azure flower by her foot, distantly looking at it. Isa kneeling to it, soon touching it. The reacting object, watching its blue light surround her, hearing her companion’s voice.

Day into day out, there is no rest, these chains shackling me. It hurts so much. Though, it doesn’t hurt nearly as much as being away from Isa...

Sentiments spilling in the space, showing the maiden her companion’s experience. A girl in shackles, one leading her around, not caring about the person’s pain.

Dark cells secluding the pure individual, the outside scorning her. Elina shortly alone in a room in the dusk, a messy dress on her, chains binding her to the bed.

“I can endure any pain, it does not matter. All I want is for a way to free Isa, so that we can be together again...” The pure one’s low voice.

A girl’s deep wish, sounding her spirit to another. A being in gold armor, their long blonde hair and crimson eyes, a red ribbon tying at the end of their hair.

The individual looking to another end of the dimension, seeing the maiden in the depths of the Prison Island.

The soon fading memory, Isa lowering her head. Cyra floating between realms, her vision a bit away, folding her arms.

“And so, I answered your wish. No doubt enemies will be coming my way at some point, but I will accept it for this chance.” The being’s sorrow.

The demon standing up, her eyes on the spreading fire. Her deep rage, raising her blade above, concentrating her negativity. Isa smashing her weapon into the land, releasing the malefic waves.

Zeke and the Commander watching the increasing fire, witnessing the crumbling buildings. The maiden displaying her anguish, unleashing the anger within her.

Elina, please wait a bit longer. You should not have to suffer, you should be happy and free. The church will fall for what they have done to you, and I will bring you home…

Azure Night

Chapter 3: Eternal Sin(Part 1)

Chapter 3: Eternal Sin(Conclusion)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

A small moment between two, their linking hearts over their far distance. The maiden’s fiery path, a demon refusing to remain in silence.

An individual once serving the church, completing their many requests. Isa choosing to limit her interactions, yet a certain night connecting her to another, bringing down her barrier.

The maiden awakening underneath the crimson moonlight, sitting by a rock in a grassy field. Her arms around her knee, soon distantly looking above.

“Elina, I am on my way...” Isa’s low voice.

A never stopping heart, strongly keeping her resolve within her. Isa’s mind on the sly church, an establishment concealing malicious knowledge in the shadows.

A great institution stringing countless along, their powerful hand causing pain onto an innocent one. The maiden’s uncertainty on their goal, her boiling fury.

The next morning, Isa and Zeke sitting behind a large rock, some trees in the distance. Their eyes on a map on the ground, the young woman thinking on her companion.

“I hope things weren’t too bad...” The young man slightly looks away.

“We did what we had to, minimizing the damage. There is no time to concern ourselves with them.” Isa studying the structure of the land.

“Right...tell me, what is it that you are after? Last I read, you were more of a loner.” Zeke’s eyes to her.

A person keeping to herself at one point, making little contact with others. An individual ascending the ranks, guiding many underneath her eyes.

Someone eventually encountering an innocent girl underneath the crimson light, a meeting setting forward a new direction in her life.

The maiden adjusting her schedule, spending more time with them, her wish for those simple events again.

“The church did something that they will not walk away from...” Isa lowers her head with her fists shaking in frustration.

“Sorry...I should not have intruded...” Zeke slightly pulls back as he looks away a bit.

A pure soul introducing her to others, linking countless together within their presence. Everything slipping away, everyone abandoning the girl.

These boiling sentiments inside the maiden, her stabbing fury. From afar, deep below Armand’s cathedral. Little light in a damp prison, the foul stench in the area.

Elina in a cell with injuries, some tears in her red dress. The pure one sternly looking at Armand on the other side, seeing his calm expression.

“This is what foolishness leads to, your imprisonment. Out there a monster is rampaging, all for one.” The leader’s arms behind his back.

“These are normal emotions, everything happening has been entirely preventable.” The pure one’s hand to her chest.

“Yes, if only you two did not oppose the church.” The man exhales.

The young woman’s wish for her companion’s safety, doing her best from her position. An individual enduring the true colors of the church, countless unaware of the truth in the shadows.

“Your actions to delay led to critical damage in Logen, as well as her escape. Why did you do that?” Armand’s serious vision on her.

“I will do anything for Isa...” Elina looks down a bit, grabbing her arms.

Memories from the old days, a girl’s wish to aid one to her heart. An individual concerning with the maiden, taking on an extra task beneath the crimson light.

A flowery field around the innocent one, Elina standing before a few in a grey top, a black dress wrapping below on her.

“You either got bravery or stupidity for confronting us girl.” A large man folds his arms.

“You can say that again, boss. So, why you going through all of this girlie?” the second turns to his side.

“I want to know if it is possible for you to call off your operations. If you do, then I can also convince the church to stop their pursuit.” Elina grabs her arms.

“Hmm...a tempting offer, so you hold some weight up there.” The leader’s hand behind his head as he seriously thinks.

“I have made somewhat of a name for myself there. Anyway, what do you think? Not a bad deal, right?” the innocent one’s finger to her chin.

“Not a bad deal, yes, but we do not plan to give up our operations. Grab her men.” The leader’s sharp eyes.

“Wha? You cannot be serious. Anyone would jump on the opportunity to get the church off their backs.” Elina’s surprise.

“We ain’t anyone you know, and better yet. I think you need to be taught a lesson for when you’re sent back.” The person walks ahead.

A few beneath the crimson light, the old buildings around them. Elina’s unrestful vision on her surroundings, soon uneasily looking to the men nearing her. One grabbing her arm, tightly twisting it.

“Aah!” the girl tries to pull away.

“Quit your struggling, you’ll be staying a good long while with us.” The third deviously grins.

One wishing to do something more for another, taking a leap into the unknown. An innocent individual rushing into the dusk, stifling her fear. Elina shutting her eyes, shortly hearing the man’s scream.

The girl slowly opening her vision, seeing Isa standing in front of her, holding the person’s bloody hand. The enemy painfully grabbing their wound, looking at the young woman in black armor.

“I--Isa...! Why are you here?!” the leader uneasily steps away.

“When I noticed Elina wasn’t at her home or the church, I quickly looked into the recent records. On a hunch, I came here based on her pattern of movements.” The maiden folds her arms as she glares at him.

“Oh? So she came here secretly then. Huh, that was really foolish.” The man gestures his hand to her.

“Not entirely, there are a few who kept things quiet from what I found in the records. I will personally punish them after this, but first I am going to tear you apart limb by limb.” Isa’s arm afar.

“I--Isa, we are better off capturing them now...” Elina nervously looks below.

“They are a threat to the church. I overheard, and they refused your offer. Execution is the punishment now.” The maiden aims her blade at the leader.

“Wow, you really are ice-cold, and all we were gonna do was use her as a bargaining chip. I guess this is another thing about the church’s absolute rule.” The person’s disgust at her.

“Say whatever you like. Maybe I would have gone a bit lighter, if you did not harm her.” Isa walks ahead.

One acting as a weapon to the church, eliminating the order’s threats. A cold unwavering blade, piercing the line within her vision.

The girl’s unrestful eyes, calling out to her companion once more. Isa hearing the pure one’s voice, a slight frown to her face.

The maiden spilling blood in the distance, shortly standing with her back facing away from her foes.

“They will be fine. Tch...I really am going soft.” The soldier’s hand at the side of her head.

“Thank you, we can let the church deal with them.” Elina walks up to Isa.

“Yeah. Now then, why would you do something so reckless? Coming out here on your own!” Isa raises her voice as she turns to them.

“I...I wanted to help you...” The girl grabs her arms with her head low.

A pure soul doing her best, someone desiring to aid her companion. An individual taking on a job, trying to use her weight to an advantage. The maiden pulling back a bit, understanding their worry.

“Please do not do anything so dangerous again...” Isa’s low voice.

“And how do you think I feel about you out there...?” Elina faces away while she sadly grabs her arms.

One constantly going out, taking on terrible challenges. The maiden returning with injuries many times, increasing her companion’s worry. Isa looking down a bit, soon walking up to the girl, wrapping her arms around them.

“Thank you for your help, and I am sorry for worrying you so much.” The maiden’s soft tone as she rests her head on the girl’s shoulder.

“I--it is okay...” Elina’s red face as her heart races.

“When we get back, I have to drill some things into a few of them.” Isa’s slightly more serious vision.

“There is no need, they didn’t leave me alone. They are actually nearby.” The girl looks back to her companion.

“Is that so? Then I can punish them for allowing you to go through with this.” The maiden releases the person, soon turning from them.

A furious soul beneath the dusk, sweeping her blade across the land. Her powerful exertion blowing a few out their hiding spots, their fearful eyes on Isa.

“There you are.” The soldier’s strict eyes on them.

“W--we were getting ready to jump out, but then you came!” a young man’s great fear.

“I--it is as he says! We were about to launch a pincer attack, with some of our more deadly magic entrusted to us!” a young woman’s panic.

“Isa! Calm down!” Elina rushes in front of them with her hands on her waist.

“How can I calm down? I specifically told the church, you were to be kept safe while you did your work. This was not safe.” Isa grabs her arms.

“I was being well supported, you’re taking things too far!” the girl’s stern expression on her companion.

“You can interrogate us if you want on our full operation, just don’t punish us!” another young man’s great fear.

“Fine. I want a detailed report, have it in my hands in two days. You better not miss any information.” The maiden turns to her side as she puts her hand on her waist.

“I guess this is the better outcome.” Elina sighs with her hand on her cheek.

A pure individual’s direction to aid her companion, taking on a great risk onto herself. Two souls wrapping in the other’s warmth, desiring for one another’s safety.

Their meeting in a dream realm filling Elina with hope, these flowing sentiments leading the two companions onward.

Out in the grassy field, Isa and Zeke continuing their strategizing behind the rock. The young man pointing to the Temple of Seres, trailing it to their location.

“This temple is our destination, but we have a stronghold not far from our location. Nearby Seres, we can assume Armand is at that cathedral.” Zeke taps down.

“However, given that his destination is likely the temple, we are better off simply going there.” The demon’s hand to her chin while she looks away a bit.

“Precisely, now then. The question is how we will bring down the stronghold ahead of us.” The young man scans the terrains.

Grand foes awaiting on every end, their direction to quell the numbers before them. One at the end of the darkness, Elina’s slowly fading light.

Isa’s desire to save the precious one, the maiden refusing to give in. Her eyes on the structure of the map, shortly recognizing the area. The devil pointing down nearby, circling the parameter to her left.

“Attacking head on will be foolish. Though, I do remember working some jobs here. The animals are quite ferocious. If we lure them to attack the town, we can use the panic to proceed. Though, expect a high number of fatalities.” Isa’s calm voice.

The sighing young man, his wish to avoid the terrible outcome, yet his understanding on the difficulty in it.

Zeke’s eyes to the relentless person ahead, someone pursuing her path, embracing her imperfections and selfish desires.

A clear picture to his mind, a demon’s conviction carrying their path. Isa soon bracing back against the rock, her eyes to the sky above, remembering the old times.

Two beneath the horrific dusk, graves lining the road within the crimson light. Witches zooming by, spirits within mirrors.

A joyful evening on the scary night, screams and laughter filling the place. Isa stepping into a dark room, the creaky sounds around her.

The maiden in a long blue shirt and short black jeans, her eyes slightly behind. Elina hiding behind them, holding onto her companion.

A pure girl in a dark coat and red shirt, a black dress wrapping below. The shaking person, their vision to the hands in the corner, shortly shifting their view to the stringing organs.

“I—I am not so sure about this one Isa...” Elina fearfully looks at the maiden.

“Come on. It is just Halloween, there is no actual danger.” Isa’s slight smile to them.

“I—I know, but this is too much for me...” The girl uneasily pulls against the person.

“Alright, we can go elsewhere.” The maiden sighs.

The simply proceeding days, Isa enjoying these small moments with another. An individual building more into her life, requesting certain times to be with a precious one.

The two soon leaving the building, their decision to venture around the town. Both taking in the sights, relishing in the bliss. The maiden listening to her companion, seeing them brightly shine within the dusk.

Chapter 2.5: A Flower in the Eve

Chapter 3: Eternal Sin(Part 2)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

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Scene From Isa

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My decision to continue in the endless hellfire, proceeding in my feverish inferno. My presence in the black void, enduring the sentimental waves wrapping around me.

My mind on Elina, a flower underneath the dusk setting my life in a new direction. My heart reaching for those blissful times, deeply yearning for them again.

I open my eyes, a bright light shining from afar. Its force surrounding me, pulling me in its embrace. I shortly find myself in the flowery field, the bleeding moon shining down its light.

Taking in the air around me, soon looking at one afar, her gentle azure eyes in my direction. My heavy footsteps towards her, eventually standing before her, seeing her displeasure.

“Welcome, Isa...” The pure one’s grim expression.

“I guess you know, huh...” My eyes a bit away.

“Of those you terrorized, of the pope you killed? Yes, I know.” Elina grabs her arm with her vision to her side.

“I will do anything to save you...” I bite my lower lip.

My first offering paving my road, setting my direction forward. Fearing the worst for her, my unyielding rage leading me onward.

A gift from a demon making my venture possible, my will to sully my soul in malice. Even if I am to be an enemy, if I can save her, to give her the life she wishes for, then I will pay any price.

“This is your path. I know, and I will support you in it. Though, I do not want you to get hurt over me...or hurt others like this...” Elina’s sad eyes to me.

“It is not so simple. That madman...if I do not play on an even ground. He will sacrifice you, no more than some pawn to be disposed of. I will endure any suffering, if it means your safety.” I lower my head.

“You can never stop worrying me, huh. Well, go on and make the next offering...” The innocent one’s hand on her cheek as she sighs in displeasure.

Walking along the endless darkness, deeply apologizing from my depths. Two souls meeting in a dream, enduring our difficulties. My soon moving feet, passing my companion.

I shortly stand in front the stairs, looking to the floating moon, negative energy seeping from my body.

My expanding arms, releasing the malice above. The black energy sinking into the orb, revealing a slight crimson glow from the object.

Its returning power assimilating into me, flowing through me, increasing my black force.

“How are you feeling now?” Elina’s soft voice to me.

“I feel increasing hatred, much that I will need.” I face her with my hands behind my back.

“Hatred huh...” The young woman’s sad tone as she puts her hand on her chest.

One steadily witnessing my corruption, seeing the darkness secreting from me. My wish to save her, to see her truly smile again.

A moment in my hands after four long terrible years, my deep desire to free her from Armand, no matter the price I will have to pay.

“I have been curious, but how do you know about events that you are not part of?” my arms in a thinking posture.

“This is your space, thus certain knowledge is granted to me upon coming here. I suppose you can say, your emotions inform me.” Elina folds her arms with her eyes on me.

“So, are you feeling my anguish as well...?” I grab my arms as I look away in unease.

“Yes, I am. Isa, what drives you so much? I always wonder that.” Elina’s sullen expression.

“Heh, I thought you would know this as well. It is you, this has been so for a long time now.” I gently look at her with my hands behind my back.

Originally keeping to myself, fulfilling my work to ascend the ranks. A certain night coming, linking my path with her own underneath the moonlight.

Its crimson gleam shining on us both, marking the beginning of our bond. Something dreadful existing in the shadows, her capture fueling me more.

“In other words, our meeting that night. It led to your suffering...” The pure one lowers her head as she grabs her arms.

Some truth in her words, yet our meeting leading to many wonderful experiences. My heart seeking out the old days, opposing my enemies to see her to safety.

Never blaming her for my troubles, my eternal gratitude to her. I shortly step towards her, grasping Elina’s hands in my own. Our eyes on one another, the brightening area around us.

My nearing time to awaken, but not like this. Feeling the breeze against us, I pull her into the vast field. Our movements with the other beneath the crimson light, both of us dancing in the dusk.

“I would like to think, our meeting led to many things I cannot let go of. These desires of mine, I will unleash them, so that we can have many more pleasant days together.” I softly smile at her.

A flower within the moonlight, its crimson gleam shining down on the both of us again. The intensifying wind against us, my tiring state. My wish to relish in the experience a bit longer, holding my companion in my arms.

Our soon stopping actions, both of us enjoying the presence of each other, this warm feeling in my heart. The increasing breeze, everything blurring around me, its gentle lull urging me to awaken once more.

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Isa: Elina, a flower that brightened my way...

Elina: Isa, my knight that always protects me...

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Author’s Note:

Chapter 2 has been entirely cleared now. Like, comment, and tell me how your experience is at this point.

Feel free to ask any questions.

Azure Night

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Conclusion)

Chapter 3: Eternal Sin(Part 1)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

Simple sentiments in the past, a pure soul flowing along its endless waves. Another experiencing their bliss, both wrapping in its pleasure.

On a certain day, a maiden in a long blue shirt and short black jeans lying down in a grassy field underneath the warm sun, her arms behind her head.

The person feeling the gentle breeze, her flowing black hair. Isa shortly opening her crimson eyes, looking to the hazel girl standing over her. Elina in a red shirt and short grey pants, her hands on her waist in displeasure.

“Do you plan to sleep there all day?”

The yawning maiden, Isa soon sitting up. Her eyes on her energetic companion, a person filling with life. An individual spreading her bright light, continuously doing her best.

Their friendship for a while, both growing closer over the passing time. The maiden sighing, pressing her hands back against the land.

“Day off you know, well. I suppose you’re right either way, so want to go to a diner?” Isa faintly smiles at them.

Elina thinking for a bit, shortly pleasantly agreeing. Two spending time with one another, exploring the possibilities with each other.

Their different lives, a girl worrying about her companion, her clawing sentiments at her depths. Isa standing up, extending her hand to the pure one.

The innocent individual resting her own on her chest for a moment, soon happily taking the gesture. Both heading onward, eventually finding themselves in town.

The two stopping for a bit by a flower shop at their side, facing the other. Isa’s confusion at her friend, wondering on their trouble.

“What is wrong?” the maiden’s hand on her waist.

“Don’t you...ever get scared? Being out there, dealing with everything...” Elina’s sullen expression with her hands to her chest.

Isa slightly lowering her head, understanding her friend’s concern. A pure soul worrying about her companion’s dangerous line of work, quivering at the possibilities out there. Those constantly spinning the roulette everyday, gambling with the turning wheel.

The maiden never intending for attachments, yet one breaking through her barrier, pulling her along into the streaming waves. Isa cherishing Elina, her resolve to survive, powerfully pursuing her beliefs.

“Those are the thoughts I have to do away with, otherwise, I can end up dead.” Isa moves up to her friend, holding their hands in her own, gently smiling at them.

“Can you not find something safer to do...?” the girl’s dissatisfaction at her companion.

“Sometimes, what someone loves to do can be the most dangerous thing.” The maiden’s soft voice.

Elina feeling her companion’s touch, their words increasing the girl’s unrest. Two streaming along the endless lines, relishing in their time with one another. Each performing in their own way, yet the tormenting agony never leaving the pure one.

The maiden understanding their worry, looking down a bit, lightly brushing the person’s knuckles. Isa carefully thinks, soon speaking what is inside.

“If I did not do this, you might not be able to do what you love. If anything happens, I want to be able to rush in and keep you safe.”

Unrestful words bringing some warmth to the innocent one, many living at ease in the town due to her friend’s efforts. One silencing their foes, yet also arresting others.

Some tales shaking the girl, Elina appreciating her companion’s safety. The maiden releasing the innocent one, shortly facing away, her hand behind her head.

Someone once keeping to herself, a difficult situation to them. Isa devoting herself to her job, yet her barrier steadily coming down. Elina walking up to the person’s side, looping her arm around their own.

“I understand...but, be-careful...” The girl faintly smiles at the maiden.

“That I do promise.” Isa returns a similar grin at her.

An unlikely meeting between two underneath the crimson light intersecting their lives, something more blossoming over the passing time.

Both cherishing each other, carrying these new sentiments into their lives. The two simply proceeding with one another, wanting to maintain the everlasting warmth.

A girl wishing for the maiden’s safety, enduring her unsettling emotions. Both soon heading onward, joyfully chatting away with the other.

I cherish those times we spent together. Back then...I truly did believe in my path. A fool I was, and once I found out, my devotion led to our separation. No matter the price I will have to pay, I will free you, and you will be able to smile again...

Azure Night

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Part 3)

Chapter 2.5: A Flower in the Eve

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

A space surrounding the two, its endlessly streaming waves in the void. The purely shining force ahead concentrating, soon revealing six enormous wings.

A being in silver armor, their wide sword slashing away at the energy, unleashing shockwaves in the area. From between dimensions, another’s calm crimson eyes watching.

Her long blonde hair tying at the end with a red ribbon, her noble velvet cape stretching down from the lower half of her back.

“What are you willing to do to achieve your deepest desire?” Cyra folds her arms.

An individual embracing her imperfections and selfish desires, powerfully proceeding along her direction. Old tales depicting a being opposing others, her wings shackling to the land.

The entity eventually breaking free, spreading her wings far. The being soaring above, strongly sounding her soul. One revealing herself at times, bearing witness to the path of others.

The maiden’s serious eyes on her powerful enemy, feeling their immense pressure. Isa’s harshly beating chest, her rising sentiments.

“There is much you do not know Isa, what lost arts the church commands.” The pope’s calm tone.

“It matters not how far I have to go, I will strike down all those in my way towards her.” Isa’s cold voice.

One willing to take on a trial, staring down her mighty enemy. Isa’s great desire to bring her companion back to her, refusing to remain silent.

Her foe massively expanding their wings, soon bursting through the field. Isa’s hasty steps, scraping her katana along the land.

The maiden heavily clashing against her opponent, releasing darkness from her body. The young woman’s bleeding rage intensifying her malice, pushing against her target’s shining force.

“Look at you now, a beast who have fallen to her desires. Your form reflects your tainted soul.” The elderly man’s stern eyes on her.

“I am fine with that, if it means Elina can be safe and happy...” Isa’s sharp vision.

A heart strongly proceeding, carrying her ill sentiments in a feverish fire. The maiden enduring the crushing power, shortly feeling her stance break.

Her opponent striking through, spilling her blood in the distance. Isa withstanding the sharp pain, malice repairing her injuries.

The young woman instantly turning, flipping high, evading the follow up. Darkness releasing from her right arm, spilling into the void. Isa immediately slamming down into the platform, spreading her dark waves.

Azure flames scorching the realm, sending black spikes at her target. The enemy raising their sword, instantly crashing it down. The great power shattering her assault, leaving dark blue particles floating in the air.

“You may have become a demon, but the power you possess is nothing in comparison to this art.” The pope gestures his hand to her.

“I will not be silenced here, mark my words.” Isa’s strict eyes on him.

A devil rising to her challenge, refusing to remain quiet. Her desire to save one, releasing the black force from her soul. The foul energy unsettling the elderly man, the person feeling her terrifying strength.

The angelic being bursting high into the air, raising their blade above, harshly unleashing their shining divinity. Its great power running along the length of their sword, stretching it far.

“You will not withstand this Isa, I will make sure of it.” The pope’s serious eyes on her.

“No...this will not quell my rage.” The maiden’s sharp voice.

Two meeting underneath the crimson light, a chance encounter intertwining their lives. A friendship leading to something more, releasing the deep emotions in her soul.

The maiden’s defeat leading to her companion’s shackles, a bright girl washing away in a miserable realm.

Isa carrying her sentiments, locking onto her opponent in the air. The maiden watching them unleash the massive pure assault, its immense strength wrapping her in their divinity.

The young woman harshly displaying her darkness, leaping into its white void. Isa cutting her way through, reaching for one at the end of the nightmare.

The maiden shortly appearing above her enemy, blood flowing from her body. Isa descending on her target, harshly kicking them, sending them to the ground.

The demon diving to her foe in her fury, sounding her sentiments. A surprising development, the elderly man watching her colliding into her opponent.

Azure flames surrounding them, Isa crashing her sword into the entity in a flurry of strikes. The maiden quickly piercing through them, immediately homing in from behind.

Isa flipping forward, slamming her blade down into the angelic being. The maiden powerfully releasing her negativity, incinerating them in her frenzy.

A heart treading down her path, withstanding the agony on her body. The clearing smoke in the area, the young woman’s claw sinking into the being’s skull. An individual devouring them, pulling their divine power into her body.

The demon soon standing, lowering her head, glaring at the pope. Isa’s slow steps towards him, soon dashing to him, furiously grabbing his head with her claw.

“Elina...she did so much for you people, and you turn around and stab her in the back...” Isa’s increasing anger.

“I--it was all for the ideal!” the pope’s great fear.

“Who’s ideal?! That damn man Armand?! For the pain you people have brought on her, I will harshly return it.” The maiden glares at him.

A devil speaking her soul, displaying the agony in her. Malice slowly repairing her wounds, unveiling the depths of her devotion. The young woman crushing down on his skull, hearing his scream in the endless space.

Blood soon spilling in the distance, the pope’s lifeless body falling below. The shifting realm, Isa returning to the cathedral. The quiet place around her, an azure flower by her foot.

The demon kneeling to it, soon touching it. Her eyes on the disintegrating object, watching its blue light wrap around her, hearing a precious voice.

I...don’t know where I am. The further I go along, the more frightening it is, but more than anything. Isa, I wish to have you with me again, I want our lives to go back to how it was...

Darkness surrounding the maiden, revealing Elina alone in a room. Chains binding the pure one to the wall, her clothes in a mess. The person’s weak eyes above, looking at a small light shining in.

“Isa...I’m scared. You will somehow come, right...?” the pure one’s teary tone.

Her companion’s simple wish, the person sobbing in the quiet area. Those taking Elina to a far off place, preparing the innocent one to be a sacrifice. The young woman standing up, reaching for her partner.

The shortly fading scene, Isa returning to the cathedral. An individual feeling Elina’s anguish, the fear eating away at her, the maiden worrying about the pure one.

“Elina...I am sorry that I could not be there. That you were caught up in this...” Isa lowers her head as she grabs her arms.

Zeke standing from afar, his uncertainty on the occurrence. The young man soon running up to her, putting a hand on her shoulder. Isa looking back to him, her distant vision on him.

Both soon racing out the building, passing the fires scorching the city, their eyes on the church members desperately trying to quell the situation.

The two moving through the shadows underneath the bleeding light, making their escape into the dusk. The demon’s desire to save her companion, wishing to relish in the moon’s light with them again.

Elina, you are a strong person, much more than I am. Please hold on, I am coming like I should have. Those old days, they will become a reality again...

Azure Night

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Part 2)

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Conclusion)

Edge Valmond’s Patreon

The young woman’s deep wish in her prison, holding on for four years. Death eventually claiming her, yet her resolve to save one strongly persisting.

Isa signing a contract, choosing to become a demon, displaying her burning soul. Her will to pay any price at the end, firmly keeping her eye on her path. The two soon sitting down, a map in front of them.

“Towards the east of the docks, there are flammable materials. We will carry some supplies and set off these, which will create a panic.” Zeke tapping at the location.

“And while this is happening, others will move in to quell it. Then we set off some more, creating even greater chaos. This will be towards the middle of the city.” Isa presses down on the map.

“Right, you will head in to kill the pope. While you do this, I will be creating more distractions. When you are finished, we will reroute ourselves and flee the city.” Zeke gestures his hand to her.

“Simple, but effective. We move out at nightfall.” The maiden folds her arms.

A target in her mind, her desire to bring down the pieces protecting the leader of the church. Isa distantly looking at her claw, holding in her despair.

Zeke quietly putting together some pieces, slightly looking away from her. Some passing time, night shortly coming. The bleeding light shining down, revealing two in the open.

Both splitting their path, the young man heading east to the docks. Feeling the cold breeze on him, soon piling boxes in a corner.

“Armand, I still have not given up...” Zeke holds a lighter in his hand.

Deeply scarring sentiments, the person firmly proceeding in his direction. Zeke making some distance, throwing it at the boxes. The young man quickly racing away, hearing the enormous explosion.

The harshly shaking land, debris crumbling from the surrounding buildings. Flames spreading wide, many taking notice. Zeke hastily slipping into the shadows, watching members from the church acting on the chaos.

“Maybe now I can bring meaning to her end...” The person’s sharp vision.

The maiden on another end, soon stepping out of an ally, carefully setting some massive boxes in the center. The young woman dashing onward, malice burning from her arm.

Isa standing on her side, unleashing the negativity on her targets. Darkness engulfing the boxes, setting the place ablaze, an explosion ripping through the area.

“Elina...I am on my way...” The devil’s serious eyes.

Its great force shattering the land, scarring the buildings nearby. Loud panic in the place, structures wrapping in the fire. The maiden quickly acting, heading to the cathedral.

An individual committing atrocities, harshly racing after her goal. Isa eventually arriving at her destination, her eyes on the stairs leading higher, pillars strongly keeping up the structure.

“Your small actions reached far, the buildings around here were from you making a case to help them. And they turned around and betrayed you...” Isa lowers her head.

Two in an empty cathedral with another, the benches lining towards an altar of a goddess. Candle lights trailing the room, revealing a mystifying glow in the dusk. Their eyes on a man in shining armor, the person’s hands behind his back.

“You know quite well that they are suffering since the disaster. Will it not be better to provide the aid, and in turn secure a stronger lasting ally?” Elina grimly grabs her arms.

“I understand your displeasure, but my hands are tied here. Even if I do manage to get approval, who will go and ensure the rebuilding goes well? We are short on hands.” The person looking away.

“I will go.” Isa walks to a bench, soon sitting down.

“But we need you out there to quell the monster out by Llewyn.” The man faces her.

“It is fine Commander, I will simply work faster, then immediately head over. All you need to do is get approval, and send the supplies. I will build the team, and ensure the rebuilding goes well.” The maiden gestures her hand to him.

The person thinking for a bit, shortly looking to Elina. The girl in a grey top and red dress wrapping below, her bright expression to her companion.

The Commander soon shifting his vision to Isa, her long blue shirt and black jeans. An individual willing to take on another burden, the man witnessing her efforts over the passing time.

“Alright. I will get in contact with Armand, and request him to approve the supplies. I will leave the rest in your hands, Isa.” The Commander turns with a slight smile.

A pure soul’s persistence, refusing to give up on the city. Her efforts providing them the necessary aid, yet their will to allow her to fall into the flames.

The maiden’s boiling blood, soon ascending up the long stairs, treading over the red carpet. The demon entering into the establishment, looking at the benches parallel to one another.

Candles lining the middle, old statues along the ends. Isa’s eyes to the pope at the back, the statue of a goddess behind him. The elderly man in a white garb, sternly looking at her.

“Isa, I am well aware that this is your doing. How far you have fallen, you used to be one of our best.” Disappointment from him.

“Fallen I have, but if it is for Elina, then that is fine...” Isa’s fist to her chest as she seriously looks at him.

“Ah yes, she as well has committed a grave sin. Nonetheless, a sacrifice she will be. Repenting her wrong, and bringing enlightenment to countless.” The elderly person expands his arms.

Enraging words sinking into her depths, igniting the flames in Isa’s soul. An individual originally part of their cause, willfully following along with their vision.

Her choice setting a new direction, wrapping her companion in a hellish inferno. A church having countless in their palms, constantly spreading their vast influence.

“You demon will die, and far away from Elina.” The pope’s hands behind his back.

“When I am finished with you, I will kill Armand and bring her home.” Isa stretches her blade afar.

Important figures pulling strings from the shadows, leading innumerable underneath their watchful eyes. Their swift actions, eliminating others stepping out of line.

The maiden’s gripping frustration, enduring her torturous emotions. Isa’s eyes on the pope, the elderly man expanding his arms.

A white light spreading, stretching a massive pentagram around the two. The divine spiraling magic, its immense force transferring them to another realm. Both soon standing on a crystal platform, Isa’s attention around her.

“Unsurprising for them to have tricks like this up their sleeves.” The devil’s sharp eyes on her target.

Azure Night

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Part 1)

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Part 3)

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A pure one from the past, someone faithfully serving in her own way. An action by another diverging their roads, the maiden believing in her path, turning her blade against their leader.

Defeat coming to her, setting forward a terrible road. Within the raging storm, Isa awakening below in the harshly rocking ship. Her hand to her head, thinking on her encounter in the strange place.

“Elina...” Isa’s sad voice.

An innocent soul in a distant place, two meeting in a strange realm, relishing in the presence of one another.

The young woman’s great resolve, refusing to quietly remain. Isa quickly running out the room, making her way out to the deck.

The heavily splashing waves, the vessel hitting a hard object, sending her flying overboard. Isa grabbing the edge, desperately holding on. Her mind on her companion, soon climbing on.

The unending chaos, her ship colliding into another object, hurling her towards the mast. The devil hitting her back against it, falling unconscious. Hours going by, Isa feeling a warm surface below. Her tense face, groaning a bit.

“Hey! You okay?!” a man calls out.

“Ughh...”

The maiden rising to her knee, grabbing the side of her head. Shortly shifting her attention to the pieces of her ship around her, soon standing up. The man doing the same, his hand behind his head.

“That must have been a nasty hit, you look to be fine though.” The person’s hand to his chin.

“Ah yes, the storm was much worse than I thought.” The devil’s hand on her waist.

“Right. I didn’t see anyone else, were you the only one on board?” the man folds his arms.

“Yeah, I was working a job. The route was supposed to be safe, but I guess not.” Isa gestures her hand to him.

“Hmmm...well, at least you’re safe. Just so you’re not confused, you’re in Logen.” The individual’s bright smile at her.

“The storm carried me all the way across the sea?” the maiden’s hand to her chin.

“You okay...?” the man slightly tilts his head at her.

“I am, thank you for informing me. I will be fine.” Isa turns from him.

A never stopping heart, one aware on her drive across the land. The leader of the church residing in a building, pillars surrounding the tall structure.

The man standing in front the statue of a goddess, his unrestful violet eyes ahead. One from the abyss emerging, forcing her way out of her prison.

The shortly opening door, Elina walking in with a filthy dress on her, chains binding her. A few leading her towards the man, the person’s fear at him. Armand facing her, his hands behind his back.

“Your abilities have immensely improved, so you must know what is happening.” The leader’s sharp eyes on her.

“What will you do...?” Elina slightly lowers her head.

“There is no going back for Isa, she has become a monster she once slayed. As such, the full force of the church will be brought down on her.” Armand’s unwavering tone.

A former member going far, forming a contract with a demon, choosing to change her body. An individual embracing corruption, reaching for a precious person from the past.

Her will to pay any price at the end, yearning to bring one back into her arms. A devil standing against the church, enduring the true colors on her own.

“I spared her death once, but I will not do so twice.” Armand’s stern voice.

A skillful person challenging him, the man witnessing her possibilities. Choosing to spare her life, Elina’s pleading request to the leader.

A mistake weighing on him, the same one returning in a feverish frenzy. The pure one looking away a bit, remembering her encounter with Isa in the dream, her wandering mind to the past.

Two existing in a distant time, their purely flowing emotions in a pleasant town. The afternoon sun shining below on a large school. Elina running on the sidewalk, passing some trees nearby.

Students taking their time, some sitting on the grass, enjoying their day. The pure one’s black dress wrapping below, blowing in the gentle wind.

Isa walking by, her long red coat and black shirt, short dark jeans on her. Her eyes on some documents in her hands, soon looking to her side.

“Woah!” the girl alarmingly tries to stop.

The maiden quickly extends her arm, grabbing the person’s own, pulling them in close. Two souls underneath the gentle sun, taking in the soothing breeze.

Elina looking to her friend, her slightly red face. The innocent individual quickly breaks away, turning from them.

“S--sorry, I was a bit in a rush.” The girl shyly grabs her wrist.

“Don’t worry about it, I wasn’t looking where I was going as well.” Isa’s hand behind her head.

“Oh...” Elina rests her hand on her chest as she feels her heavily beating heart.

“You okay?” the maiden walks to their side with a curious look at the person.

“Yes...I am. Why are you here?” the pure one smiles at her.

“I’m on an extermination job here. Try to keep it on a down low, we do not want to cause a panic.” Isa’s slight smile to her companion.

One working underneath the church’s orders, taking care of the jobs from afar or at home. The girl’s unrestful vision, wishing for her friend to take up another line of work.

An individual constantly worrying, hoping for the maiden’s safety. The two friends soon walking side by side, shortly finding themselves on the bottom floor of the building.

The high standard around them, crystal stairs circling high. Pictures lining the walls, plants from across the world in the corners. Isa and Elina standing by a fountain, relishing in the simple experience.

“I wish you wouldn’t worry me so much...” Elina grabs her arms as she looks away a bit.

“Heh, sorry. I will do my best to try and ease your concern.” Isa’s hand on her waist with a slight smile at them.

The passing days worrying the girl, waiting for her companion to return, hoping for their well-being.

Many sentiments flowing within the pure one, a person constantly looking on the brighter end, yet her mind wandering to the possibilities. A sigh leaving the girl, soon turning from her friend.

“You never make it easy...” Elina’s hand to her chest.

“How about tonight we go out somewhere? It will help us both take our minds off this.” Isa walks up to her companion, wrapping her arms around them.

“Okay...” The girl looks down a bit with a red face.

Two meeting underneath the crimson light, a chance encounter setting their path with one another. These warmly flowing sentiments, the pure one slightly looking back to her companion.

Isa shortly continuing on her way, the innocent person watching them head to their job. From the corners, two girls popping in, grabbing Elina’s arms.

“Eeek!” the innocent one’s alarm at them.

“Elina, you have some explaining to do. You been keeping a secret from us?” one girl deviously smiles at her.

“N--no!” the pure person’s panic at them.

“I don’t know, seems pretty clear to me. How long have you been dating a top ranking member of the church?” the second one’s arms behind her head as she turns from her friend.

“It is nothing like that, you’re reading way too much into it!” Elina quickly walks onward, folding her arms in displeasure, her red face.

“Oh come on! No need to be shy!” the first happily chases after her.

“Yeah! Give us the deets!” the second joyfully follows behind.

Two existing together in the simple days, relishing in warm sentiments with one another. A certain day separating them, locking them in different worlds.

One returning after years, their determination to make the two’s reality whole again. At the time, across the land.

Isa making her way down the city sidewalk, shortly seeing a commotion. Her eyes to a young man racing to the docks direction, guards chasing after him.

“I better check that out, could be something worth it...” The maiden’s serious vision.

The young woman following after them, soon finding herself back at the docks. Her attention on her surroundings, shortly spotting a warehouse. The maiden cautiously proceeding, soon entering into the building.

Boxes stacking high, barrels in the corners. Isa making her way around the side, coming into the young man’s view. Her presence startling him a bit, the person shortly sighing in relief as he braces back against some boxes.

“Heard some things about you, former church-dog now a demon.” The individual gestures his hand to the maiden with a faint smile at her.

“Word spreads faster than I thought...” Isa’s arms in a thinking posture as she slightly looks away.

“Well, it has to. They gotta maintain their so-called higher standing.” The young man props his arms behind his head with his vision above.

One leading many underneath his watchful eye, expanding the church’s influence far. The maiden’s opposition to him, understanding the will of others a bit more.

An individual feverishly performing her duties in the past, ripping away countless lives, her true belief in her path in the old days. Isa’s wish to save one, firmly holding onto the smallest chance.

“You shouldn’t concern yourself too much yet though, word hasn’t spread that far.” The person assures her.

“I see, tell me. Do you know where Armand is specifically located? Even in my days at the church, it was nearly impossible for someone such as my rank to track him.” Isa’s hand on her waist.

“I might have connections, but not something that can track him. All I know for sure, is that he conducts rituals at the Temple of Seres, it is likely his location is near there.” The young man folds his arms.

“Makes sense, I am heading there either way.” The demon sighs.

One streaming along an endless line, riding its harsh wave towards an enemy. The maiden choosing to stain her soul, powerfully shouting it.

Enemies all around her, an enormous challenge weighing on her. The young man looking at her, seeing her secreting malice, a person able to end the nightmare on them.

“Ya know, not everyone is taken by the church’s sly words. Some even try to oppose them, but it is like going up against the entire world. This city was once quite a diverse place, now look at them. Mindless puppets, it sickens me.” The person pounds the ground at his side in frustration.

“This is not my problem.” Isa turns from him.

“If you are going to go up against Armand, then it will serve you well to start taking out his strongholds. This place being one of them, take out this city, and his influence will weaken.” The young man stands up.

A man having many at his disposal, one massively expanding his influence over the passing time. The maiden’s mind on her chance, her partner at the end of the darkness.

Her burning spirit in the abyss, resisting Armand’s reason. Isa’s feverishly beating heart, reaching for her deepest desire.

“I guess you are right. However, taking out every little thing will simply cost necessary time. Executing the leading figure should be more than enough to cripple them, and while doing this. It will make sense to create some more chaos on the way.” Isa faces the person as she folds her arms.

“Right, but if we are to do this. Can we avoid the people getting caught up in the mess?” the young man’s hand behind his head.

“I care not if this entire world burns, my goal is far more important than their safety. The enemy will not care, and neither should we.” The maiden turns from him with her hand on her waist.

A person’s cage on an island, residing in the deepest pit, the young woman enduring her torturous experiences.

An individual embracing her selfish direction to save one, choosing to give up her humanity, steeling her resolve along her path.

Isa once standing tall, an action casting her into despair. Armand sullying their ideals, taking everything from her, the maiden unleashing her ferocity on the church.

“I am aware, but let’s at least try to minimize the damage...” The person looks down a bit.

“I have no intention of causing more damage than necessary, but our priority is silencing their head.” Isa folds her arms.

“Alright, Zeke is my name. I already know yours, Isa.” The young man mildly smiles at her.

Azure Night

Chapter 1.5: Hopeful Eve

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Part 2)

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Scene From Isa

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Floating in an endless space, darkness surrounding me in its tight grip. Steadily opening my eyes, my mind on my decision to push forward. My choice to give up my humanity, to free Elina from Armand.

A light shining in my direction, feeling its pulling force on me. Shortly moving my hand towards it, a familiar warmth wrapping me in its embrace.

I soon find myself in a flowery field, the bleeding moon shining below. An altar in the back with stairs leading higher, a moon levitating at the top.

A strange place around me, the gently blowing breeze against me. Shifting my vision to the bottom, seeing someone there. My slow movements forward, my widening eyes.

Increasing my pace, running faster to them, soon standing before one in a black nightwear. A bench behind them, its structure detailing in fine quality. Remaining there, the person’s soft gaze on me, purely smiling at me.

“Welcome, Isa.” The pure one holds down her hands.

“Elina...why are you here? What is this place?” my attention around me.

Seeing her again after a long time, confusion and excitement inside of me. Both of us in the flowery field, feeling the calm breeze embracing us underneath the blissful dusk. My eyes on her movement, watching her hold her arm, the innocent one slightly looking below.

“Did you...really give up your humanity...?” Elina’s quivering voice.

“Yeah, it was my only chance to be able to save you. Though, I guess being here changes things a bit.” I scratch the back of my head.

“No, it does not...” The innocent one’s sad eyes on me.

“What do you mean?” I lower my arm.

Two of us in a mysterious place, my uncertainty on my arrival here. My desperation to save her, giving up my humanity for the chance to bring her away from her captor. Witnessing sorrow from her, her state weighing on my mind.

“This place is a space you created, your deepest desire that is. And with it, my soul has made its way here to help guide you.” The pure one resting her hand on her chest.

“So...you are still trapped...and this is a dream...?” I lower my head.

“That is the best way to put it, but at least here, we can have small moments together.” Elina warmly smiles at me.

My desire for her safety, wanting her in my arms again. My despair creating a space for us both, a realm in the dusk.

A similar feeling to our meeting, our unlikely encounter shaping our way onward. I want those days again, I want to apologize to her.

“Small moments huh...yeah, I guess so. Elina...I...” My eyes slightly to her.

“I am aware, but before this. There is something you should do.” The innocent one sadly facing away.

“Do what?” I step forward.

“Go to the altar, and make an offering. This will help you on your path.” Elina pointing onward.

Many words within me, yearning to share them with her. My eyes soon to the altar, looking to the moon floating above it. I walk forward, expecting little time with each other.

A peculiar force pulling me to it, my vision on the pulsing azure from the floating object. I shortly stand at the stairs, expanding my arms above.

Negativity flowing out of me, assimilating into the orb. Its energy soon returning, sinking into me. Dark blue flames surrounding me, spilling into the area, shortly vanishing.

“How do you feel?” Elina’s soft voice to me.

“Resilient, but also something more.” I face her, my hand on my waist.

“This is your contract with that demon. As such, it is part of her power.” The hazel one’s hand to her chest in concern.

“Her power huh. So, if I keep developing this, what can happen?” positioning my arms in a thinking posture.

“It is difficult to say, but this is the start of the Countdown to Ruin.” The innocent one’s unsettling voice.

The Countdown to Ruin, a great power leading to catastrophic results. My desire to save Elina, to kill the man responsible for kidnapping her.

I wonder in this moment, on the lengths I am willing to go. My eyes soon to the pure one, seeing her sadness. Both of us shortly sitting on the bench, taking in the breeze, our visions to the sky.

“Are you horrified by my state?” my eyes away from her.

“No, since I know it is you.” Elina rests against me as she holds onto my arm.

“Kinda funny huh, me becoming the thing I once hunted...” I slightly grin at her.

“There is a difference, you are still the one I remember. So driven, so stubborn, but also admirable.” Elina smiles at me with her hand over my own.

Cherishing our values, my stubbornness leading to our separation. Refusing to allow that man to make a mockery of our ideals, a person easily overpowering me.

Elina coming in, everything falling apart, my companion sweeping away in the madness. Her soft words to me, my uncertainty on her kindness. Our slowly brightening surroundings, feeling the increasing wind.

“It seems it is almost time for you to awaken...” The pure one’s depressing voice.

“I promise, I will save you Elina, just give me some time.” I wrap my arms around her.

“I will, while also doing all I can from my end.” The innocent one’s eyes to me.

The Countdown to Ruin setting my direction, my desire to bring Elina back into my arms. Hope existing in this eve, the shining area, the heavily blowing breeze against me.

A tiring feeling coming over me, witnessing the fading dream. No matter my path, I will do anything I must. To see her truly smile again, for her to live the life she wishes to. A person once full of energy, one keeping her in bondage.

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Isa: Even if ruin is to come. I will save you, Elina...

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Author’s Note:

Now that Chapter 1 has been entirely cleared. Like, comment, tell me about your experience.

What do you think will happen?

Azure Night

Chapter 1: Mortal Desire(Conclusion)

Chapter 2: Demonic Conviction(Part 1)

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