[He could have just invited Akechi over for some tea!!! It's shit tea, but they could have just talked in his house, man. Cottage. Whatever.]
See you there.
[Kazuya walks, this time. If only because he doesn't want to become overly demon reliant yet, when his powers are still fairly fresh and his body is still sort of adjusting to having them again. He doesn't like the sick feeling that is uncomfortable, but tolerable. A dull ache in his body as things adjust.
Either way, he shows up, and he'll even give a small wave to Akechi once he's spotted.
Of course, the first thing he notices is, of course, the scent of anger intermingled with the ocean breeze. A little harder to figure out when it's muddied like this, but not impossible.
He stuffs his hands into his pockets after.
And grins, as he closes the rest of the distance between them.]
You know, I was worried for a second you wouldn't show up.
[He approaches, and the scent of anger and negativity strengthen. It's definitely coming from Akechi.
As is something else. A presence he knows, and knows exceedingly well. It's Loki. Loki, who had made it a point to mess with not only him and his friends, but other humans as well. Loki, who made it a point to shove his entire damn fist through his chest.
Kazuya's hands tighten into fists in his pockets.
So Akechi was lying. Just not in the way he thought he was. Well, Loki is pretty strong on his own, isn't he? Then Akechi shouldn't mind too much if Kazuya takes the first swing, especially with those words of his.
A portal manifests beside him, all swirling darkness and electricity as a dragon appears out of it, perching itself on top of Kazuya.]
One of the weaker dragons I have, but I don't think it should be too much for you and your demon to handle.
[Which is to say, Culebre's mouth opens, and a Bufudyne is volleyed right at where Akechi is standing.]
[The vision of a dragon takes over - a summon that's not unlike a persona, but different all the same. It appears like a shadow in a desolate palace and perches on the boy like it belongs there.
Words hit next your demon - Akechi hasn't told him shit. Doesn't think word has gotten to him through the grapevine, but who knows. It's pointless to deny it with a Bufudyne lobbed his way. He recognizes it instantly - wraps Loki in barbed wire around his heart, lets Robin Hoodthrive in the face of this enemy.
He doesn't summon it - not yet. Throws an arm over his face as ice climbs up his body and shatters.
Okay.]
I didn't take you to be so aggressive. That's a shame, but if it's a fight you want, I'm happy to oblige a friendly training session.
[Fuck Kazuya.
Robin Hood appears in a swirl of thin blue strands that mimic flames. Appears behind him, as Akechi places a hand over his face.]
[Ah. He'd expected Loki to make his appearance. To chatter incessantly, to cloak himself around Akechi much like how Culebre is doing to him, because that's what he expects.
Loki can't shut up. Is too maliciously playful for that.
But the fact remains, the ice shatters harmlessly, chunks falling into the sand around them to melt slowly. It's fine. It was never actually about attacking Akechi himself. Culebre remains perched ontop of him, and like he is now, he can easily support the weight of the massive dragon like it's a hunting hawk. And isn't it, in this specific circumstance? Except it's another demon he's hunting for, not Akechi and not some small game.
Blue flames manifest, and for a moment, he's surprised. He's never seen Loki appear like that, and then it makes sense in the very next instance.
It's not Loki.
It's some other demon.
Kazuya raises an eyebrow, momentarily taken aback. It's not him, it doesn't even feel like him, but the fact remains that Akechi is still holding a power back that has all the hallmarks of the demon he knows. And it's not unusual for a demon tamer to have more than one demon, after all.]
You can call out your other demon now. Honestly, I don't care about you or this one all that much. It's your other one I have business with. Especially since he saw fit to hide from me behind you.
[Oh, he's going to take great joy in dismantling Loki piece by piece. A petty little payback for what he'd done.]
You're mistaken. Perhaps due to this world's influence, or a distortion of your own abilities.
[There is no other persona and Loki-
Wants to rip out of his heart - run wild and free to a boy that called it forth to battle. Akechi isn't so easily swayed, despite the wrath crawling up his body - up his spine, against his skull.
He attacks with Kouga - blessed light moving to hit the demon in Kazuya's thrall.]
Robin Hood is my power. My only skill. A persona isn't a demon and will manifest differently - it stands behind me, because it is part of me. If you're implying it has fear, that has nothing to do with it.
[The Kouga hits Culebre, and the demon on him screeches and writhes momentarily before taking flight, though it still doesn't attack. Or rather, it doesn't attack yet.
The spell leaves a bad taste in the air, and one he's familiar with, strangely enough. It's not exactly his favourite thing in the world, for obvious reasons. Why then, would Loki group together with a guy who has access to that type of magic?]
Robin Hood, huh? Not the weirdest demon I've seen. Call it a "Persona" all you want, but all I see is a demon that's getting between me and what I want. Though I suggest you don't use that same spell again, or I'll start having a problem with you.
[And that very much is a threat, and the way his entire demeanor shifts gives that much away instantly. He wasn't refering to Robin Hood cowering behind Akechi, more that Loki was, in the metaphorical sense.
It could still be seen that way, though.]
Call Loki out here, right now. I know you're hiding him.
Is interesting. A side of Kazuya unseen on the network or in person. A grudge, a vendetta - it's present and noticeable.
Akechi doesn't relent - notes the attack working. Notes the screech of the creature that sends a shiver through his body. Makes him feel alive. Content.
Loki isn't content. Wants out. Wants to rip it apart with Akechi.
Robin Hood remains ever dutiful behind him and Akechi presses a hand to his hip, watches the display with feigned ease.
Kouga targets the demon again. Appears in the air around them and strikes,]
I don't hide anything - why would I? If you're so sure there's another entity inside me, drag it out yourself.
[This time, both Kazuya and the dragon are ready. Kazuya won't attack Akechi outright, but his demon? That's on the metaphorical menu. Culebre dodges the attack- mostly, the bless attack glancing off of it's scales as it flaps backwards in an attempt to dodge.
It's hurt, but not as much as the direct hit from before. And Kazuya narrows his eyes further.]
Just like you didn't hid that you had powers? Just like you didn't hide that demon of your own?
[He laughs, and it's more amused than anything. He'll get to Loki even if he has to do what Akechi says and drag the demon out kicking and screaming.
A snap of his fingers, and something shimmers over both Kazuya and Culebre. A Shield All, something to reflect the damage from the bless spells he very much dislikes.]
Tear that demon apart.
[He's never once denied his dislike of demons. He'd kill them himself if they'd gotten in his way. And now this one is, and whether or not it's at Akechi's behest is irrelevant. It's in the way, and it needs to be removed.
Culebre launches a volley of ice this time, body twisting in the sky in an almost hypnotic, dance like fashion, wings flaring with each strike. An Ice Dance, to retaliate against the Kouga, though none of the spells are aimed at Akechi himself.
It's a lesson all need to learn in this reality - the persona is an extension of his soul, not a targetable entity. Maruki's soul is different. Special. Not the norm, not the rule. His can touch and be touched. Robin Hood can't.
The attack hits, but Robin Hood doesn't react. Doesn't move. Doesn't act anguished in the slightest.
But it hits and Akechi feels it, likely due to this world's influence. It's not the Metaverse, not reality, and the effect lies somewhere in between. He shakes it off easily. Ice skills aren't his weakness. Kazuya will need to attack him to see the full brunt of damage.]
A man is allowed to have his secrets - I'm not like you. I don't like displaying my hand before it's necessary.
[Time for a big fucking almighty bomb! Megidoloan is cast next - targeted at Kazuya and not the creature, but will likely engulf both if they don't move.]
[Kazuya doesn't move. Culebre sure attempts to though, not wanting to get caught up in the heat and pain of a Megidoloan, it twists, driving distance between itself and Kazuya and the spell. It isn't like Robin Hood. It can feel pain, and it certainly screeches for the effort more as it's nearly grounded by the spell.
Pain rips through Kazuya too, having been at the epicenter of it. He's no stranger to taking damage from spells like this, and while it certainly hurts, is certainly painful, he's here to show off his own abilities, isn't he? Though the fact that Akechi would target him so boldly is interesting.
Well. He had targeted Akechi in turn with a Bufudyne, so perhaps it was fair. His clothes fray slightly from the blast, but Kazuya brushes off the damage with a Diarahan to heal himself and take away the pain.]
I display my hand so people can make informed decisions before trying to attack me like you have. Really, I don't care about this demon or you. It's Loki I want to tear apart. I know he's there, and I know you're hiding him.
[Kazuya's left eye flickers from blue to red, pupil unnatural and cat like as he levels his gaze at Akechi.]
I'm also going to pretend that you didn't just attack me for your own sake. The last thing I want to do is hurt a human.
Healing skills. A god would have it, but like anything else it's tied to stamina. Tied to an end. It's an irritating addition to a packed arsenal, but it's no different than any other overpowered, glorified shadow in the depths of Mementos.
Stuck on Loki. A persona that yearns for the thrill of a fight - Akechi's own will driving that.]
I think you're confused, perhaps because this isn't a demon. This is a persona. They likely feel different than what you're accustomed to.
[Robin Hood remains - hovering behind him as ever.]
The same way you're confused about my target. The skill is a wide range one - I'm sure you have a few of your own. I meant to hit your demon, of course.
[A persona. Something not a demon. Is it different though? Kazuya can feel Loki's presence, looming, waiting. Wanting. Malicious intent constrained.
He knows it anywhere. Should know it anywhere.
He raises his hand, and this time Culebre lands, small dust cloud kicked up as it levels it's stare at Akechi. There's no ill intent on the dragons behalf, but there is an aggressive sort of wariness, with the way it's eyes flick between Robin Hood and Akechi, head lowered and frost tinging the air as it breathes. A threat, but one of defense.]
I know a Megidolaon when I see it.
[But the skills are so similar. Akechi being from Tokyo is similar. There's so many similarities, and yet he can't yet grasp the difference between the persona Robin Hood, and the fact that by all accounts it's a demon. Of what it might mean that Robin Hood, and thus Loki, may not be demons at all.
He wants to pick them apart, for curiousities sake.]
Once more, I'm not picking a fight with you, Akechi. If your demons- Persona are not the demons I'm familiar with, then you shouldn't have a problem summoning Loki instead, should you? I know he's there. I can smell his stench clinging to you, so don't try to tell me he isn't.
[Kazuya's snaps his fingers, and this time a much more dangerous demon appears.
Belial speaks, leaning against his pitchfork. Grins maliciously.]
"And so I'm finally called upon by my King. A pretty matter, but it will be good to stretch my legs."
[And yet, Kazuya holds up his hand, prevents Belial from attacking just yet.]
Am I going to have to actually tear Loki out of you? I guess I could put you back together again after, but I can't imagine it'll be very pleasant.
[Kazuya's determination or Akechi's petulance - the winner unclear in this little display.
He knows Loki exists in Akechi and Loki wants to make itself known in a sea of viscera. A shared feeling. The same desire. A soul entwined. Loki born from him. Loki is him. Loki is strong because Akechi is and-
They want to tear apart Kazuya and the shitty 'demon' speaking to him.
Hilarious.
Akechi laughs - acidic and cruel despite an attempt to temper it.
He's so tired of this shit.
A taped up smile, a step forward. Robin Hood preparing another Megidolaon. ]
Don't hold back on my account - show me what a 'king' can do against a 'prince.'
[He should have known that would have been the response. The laugh is just another part of the piece of Akechi, how it's mocking and cruel despite the persona he puts up. Interesting, but he'd gotten the feeling of Akechi's true nature ever since he'd stepped foot onto the beach in front of him. Or rather, his current nature. It'd be unfair to paint him with such a broad stroke if perhaps he was just having a bad day and needed someone to take it out on.]
If that's how you want it.
[It feels bad, truthfully. Using his powers to actively attack a person is something he's sure that Yuzu wouldn't want him to do, no matter how much he's being taunted for it to happen. He'd talked big to try and spook Loki out, to get Akechi to give in and show the demon, but that's not what happens. He rises to the challenge instead, and Kazuya watches with a frown tipped to his lips as the scent of magic permeates the air. Megidolaon. Again. An attack against all three of them, enough that a shield won't work.
Kazuya sighs, lowers his hand, and both Belial and Culebre laugh and shriek in tandem. Culebre rises into the air, just in time for that Megidolaon to connect with both it and the newer demon, crumpling it's body back to the earth again. A solid hit to a demon that didn't have much health left to begin with, and it smokes in an inky darkness as it's body starts to disipate into nothing. And Belial? He simply laughs even harder, leaning forward on his pitchfork.
Kazuya is notably absent, after the blast. An instant teleportation, one that puts him just behind Akechi as he raises his leg to kick him down, just behind his knees. There's a dangerous force behind it, even as Kazuya tries to temper his strength into something that he thinks a human should be able to handle. Hopes a human can handle, anyway.]
A human 'prince' can't compare to a demon 'king'.
[Really, he doesn't think Akechi ever stood a chance, and he's not who he wanted anyway. There's amusement on his face now, though. Something slightly more malicious to match Akechi's mood.
A familiar spark of magic glimmers in Kazuya's hand. More potent than the Megidolaon Akechi had just cast, the Megidolaondyne tickles against his flesh, waiting for a release of the energy.]
Because the other shadow is cackling and the ground fills his vision, pain pulses at the back of his legs. Adrenaline. Glee.
Kazuya wasn't all bark. He teleports. That's new - he's never seen a shadow do that, but that's part of what would make him a king.
Loki fills his chest - heart unbound, soul fraying at wild edges. It would be so easy to unleash it now - let that sword slam into Kazuya's chest, flay him with bursts of energy.
But he doesn't.
Can't let it out. Won't let him win. Turns with rapid force that may have snapped a lessor person's spine, a knife pulled from his side with a flick of his arm.
He hates Kazuya and that laugh -
Vile. Cruel. Mocking. A King -
Infuriates.
And he laughs too with a bitter maliciousness, a tone hardened.]
You're nothing but trash.
[And that knife? Oh it's heading for any part of Kazuya he can reach, as he moves to tackle him to the ground.]
cw: violence & blood!!!! but its from a demon so its not Real Blood (TM)
[Akechi really is a treat amongst treats. These feelings of his, he hasn't even gotten a proper taste yet, but from the scent of them alone, he knows that they're going to be good. It almost feels bad though, seeing him so furious and hateful.
His hand starts to close to detonate the spell when he's lunged at, and it's surprising enough that it fizzles out into nothing as their bodies connect, Kazuya not braced for it as he's effectively tackled to the ground with a searing, sharp pain deep just under the upward curve of his ribcage.
A second surprise. One that he just sort of blinks at Akechi for. It hurts, obviously, and there's a sticky wet feeling as blood pools in the little indent. That's-
A shame. It's the same spot Loki had shoved his entire hand through. Akechi has the nerve to hide the demon from him, but it's probably whispering in his ear all the same. At least he has more of his mind about him this time. Though it's not- It's not a good thing either, is it? Because he wants to drive the point home even further now. Twist Akechi's emotions further.
A hand comes to Akechi's where he has the knife lodged in him.
And forces him to twist it. It's excruciating, but the fact remains: He'll live through it easily.
Kazuya grins.]
I told you. A human prince is nothing to a Demon King.
[At the other teens back- a pitchfork held by a demon that pushes it uncomfortably against him. Belial hasn't disappeared, the other Bel demon is very much present, and all too eager to push the two on one advantage.]
cw: more violence, more blood, everyone's a little mmm
Kazuya's something else. The King twists the blade deeper into his own chest in a fit of glee, Akechi obliges by forcing his body down further. Far be it from him to deny someone the pain they desperately want. What they deserve.
He laughs and-
Prongs press against his spine, digging into flesh and threatening to pierce him through.
Akechi goads it on by ignoring it. Letting it. Concentrating on the fight with a boy trapped under his body.]
And yet, you still need that pathetic shadow to stab from behind. You're no goddamn King.
[But-
He wants to see Loki. Akechi wants to unleash it - wants to run wild, feels the thrum of a fight in his fingers and spine. A mind splintering, slamming, welcoming the sensation of ripping another apart.
And he's ripping him apart - he doesn't relinquish. Lets Kazuya deepen the blow, but forces all his weight into blade, until-
He's sick of that prickle against his back and-
With a wild, manic sort of glee, his voice resonates - loud and confident across the shitty patch of land they're fighting in.]
[This close, he could really reach out and bite him and take all that negativity for himself and let it fuel him. Akechi is a feast laid out for a King, and as the king, it's hard to not want to partake, but Kazuya draws the line, barely, at outright biting someone.
For now.
The knife is eagerly twisted in his chest. Does extensive damage for it. More blood pools, and his body keeps up by constantly trying to close the wound around it as the thick, viscous liquid dissipates into billowy smoke where it makes contact with air.
But he's being called out for his help, how silly is that? Akechi has Robin Hood, and obviously Loki, but Kazuya is the one who isn't allowed help? Fine.
Loki's name rings in his ears just in time as the tower of red blinds him, forcing him to look away for the split second that it takes for him to appear.
Loki.
But it isn't, either. This isn't the Loki he knows. There's no malicious playful mocking, no smarmy grin. There's nothing from him, from the Loki he knows. It's confusing enough to keep him there, rooted in place as Riot Gun pelts him, Belial, Akechi himself with a flurry of bullets.
Pain ricochets in his body, and Kazuya grunts while Belial once more laughs. It doesn't seem to do as much damage to Belial as Akechi might like, but it does serve to cause the demon to relent with the pitchfork, opting to attempt to slam it into the attacking demon with a Power Hit instead.
Kazuya opts to cast Gigajama, this time not directed at Loki, but at Akechi himself. He knows the other teen likely has skills he can use, and he'd rather he not, now that Loki is finally out and Kazuya needs to figure it out. The less he has to contend with, the better.]
Akechi doesn't give a shit about the sharp, violent hits that pound into everything within eyesight. The temporary agony from it worthwhile because it gets that piece of shit off his back, a boy under him to react. The demon tries to attack Loki and-
Nothing happens. Akechi needs to be the target, something Kazuya seems to learn with-
That.
That.
That barrier between him and his own will, his own powers, his own goddamn soul. ]
You'll pay for that, you piece of shit.
[Because Loki is incapacitated the second it appears. Call of Chaos even locked away, deep in his own heart. Akechi can feel it. Knows it's there. Knows it's present.
The persona floats behind him still as Akechi tugs into the deepest recesses of his heart to unbind the chains affixed by a false king.
It doesn't work.
He's furious.
It doesn't work.
So he attacks.
With his own hands, blade pressed deep into Kazuya's chest - a fist curls and he moves to punch Kazuya right in the face.]
You think an ailment will stop me?
cw: me breaking my rule of not tagging anyone until my tag ins are done also VIOLENCE!!!!!!!!
The moment Belial's attack moves through him, his connection to the other demon tells him as much. This Loki may as well be a phantom, intangible and untouchable and for a moment his own rage simmers in response to that fact.
He wants to tear Loki apart. He can't.
At the same time, his spell on Akechi was enough to hinder the demon; it's attacks cease, and the dots connect. To attack Loki, he has to attack Akechi. It's a moral conundrum. He doesn't want to attack a human, and Loki is really his only goal. Darkness and fire creep into his veins, and he can hear the almost unintelligible call to do it. To drive his fist into Akechi's chest the way Akechi has driven his knife into his.
He doesn't want to. There are those who would be sad.
He wants to. The call of vengeance burns in his blood.
A fist connects with the side of his face, the force of if it making him turn his head with it.
The call of vengeance wins, momentarily. Kazuya grits his teeth, and both of his hands come up to grip Akechi, practically still pristine, if a little coated by Kazuya's own blood, by his shirt. Another spell. Diajama, to make sure the hurt he inflicts stays, to make sure that there will be no reprieve from what Kazuya's about to do next. That what he does will linger and make him regret ever attacking him in the first place.]
This might.
[He reaches deep into the primordial darkness that simmers and burns and boils in his chest until a great well of magic springs up, unleashing the entirety of the Calamity of Babylon directly into Akechi's body at such a close range, and just barely restrained enough to not kill him outright.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
text; un: u"\U0001F408"u"\U0001F408"u"\U0001F408"
Feel like confessing any lies before I come find you?
no subject
Nothing at all.
I look forward to seeing what you're capable of.
However, let's meet somewhere private - perhaps close to the ocean. Are you okay with that?
no subject
But sure, I don't mind. Close to the ocean, got it. See you then.
no subject
He's already tilted. Anyway.
Akechi sends him the exact location - the same place he met with BB a few months ago. A random spot, on an empty beach, for only the two of them.]
It would be foolish of me to fight someone as powerful as you claim to be. I only want to experience this without the babble of others to distract.
See you soon.
no subject
See you there.
[Kazuya walks, this time. If only because he doesn't want to become overly demon reliant yet, when his powers are still fairly fresh and his body is still sort of adjusting to having them again. He doesn't like the sick feeling that is uncomfortable, but tolerable. A dull ache in his body as things adjust.
Either way, he shows up, and he'll even give a small wave to Akechi once he's spotted.
Of course, the first thing he notices is, of course, the scent of anger intermingled with the ocean breeze. A little harder to figure out when it's muddied like this, but not impossible.
He stuffs his hands into his pockets after.
And grins, as he closes the rest of the distance between them.]
You know, I was worried for a second you wouldn't show up.
no subject
He schools his expression - smile plastered, voice bright and airy. Ever the picture perfect image of a prince.]
I wouldn't dream of missing out on a once in a lifetime opportunity like this. It's not everyday I get to see demons after all.
[A wave of his hand, he brushes off any other questioning and-]
By all means - show me what you're capable of.
no subject
As is something else. A presence he knows, and knows exceedingly well. It's Loki. Loki, who had made it a point to mess with not only him and his friends, but other humans as well. Loki, who made it a point to shove his entire damn fist through his chest.
Kazuya's hands tighten into fists in his pockets.
So Akechi was lying. Just not in the way he thought he was. Well, Loki is pretty strong on his own, isn't he? Then Akechi shouldn't mind too much if Kazuya takes the first swing, especially with those words of his.
A portal manifests beside him, all swirling darkness and electricity as a dragon appears out of it, perching itself on top of Kazuya.]
One of the weaker dragons I have, but I don't think it should be too much for you and your demon to handle.
[Which is to say, Culebre's mouth opens, and a Bufudyne is volleyed right at where Akechi is standing.]
no subject
[The vision of a dragon takes over - a summon that's not unlike a persona, but different all the same. It appears like a shadow in a desolate palace and perches on the boy like it belongs there.
Words hit next your demon - Akechi hasn't told him shit. Doesn't think word has gotten to him through the grapevine, but who knows. It's pointless to deny it with a Bufudyne lobbed his way. He recognizes it instantly - wraps Loki in barbed wire around his heart, lets Robin Hood thrive in the face of this enemy.
He doesn't summon it - not yet. Throws an arm over his face as ice climbs up his body and shatters.
Okay.]
I didn't take you to be so aggressive. That's a shame, but if it's a fight you want, I'm happy to oblige a friendly training session.
[Fuck Kazuya.
Robin Hood appears in a swirl of thin blue strands that mimic flames. Appears behind him, as Akechi places a hand over his face.]
By all means - try again.
no subject
Loki can't shut up. Is too maliciously playful for that.
But the fact remains, the ice shatters harmlessly, chunks falling into the sand around them to melt slowly. It's fine. It was never actually about attacking Akechi himself. Culebre remains perched ontop of him, and like he is now, he can easily support the weight of the massive dragon like it's a hunting hawk. And isn't it, in this specific circumstance? Except it's another demon he's hunting for, not Akechi and not some small game.
Blue flames manifest, and for a moment, he's surprised. He's never seen Loki appear like that, and then it makes sense in the very next instance.
It's not Loki.
It's some other demon.
Kazuya raises an eyebrow, momentarily taken aback. It's not him, it doesn't even feel like him, but the fact remains that Akechi is still holding a power back that has all the hallmarks of the demon he knows. And it's not unusual for a demon tamer to have more than one demon, after all.]
You can call out your other demon now. Honestly, I don't care about you or this one all that much. It's your other one I have business with. Especially since he saw fit to hide from me behind you.
[Oh, he's going to take great joy in dismantling Loki piece by piece. A petty little payback for what he'd done.]
no subject
[There is no other persona and Loki-
Wants to rip out of his heart - run wild and free to a boy that called it forth to battle. Akechi isn't so easily swayed, despite the wrath crawling up his body - up his spine, against his skull.
He attacks with Kouga - blessed light moving to hit the demon in Kazuya's thrall.]
Robin Hood is my power. My only skill. A persona isn't a demon and will manifest differently - it stands behind me, because it is part of me. If you're implying it has fear, that has nothing to do with it.
no subject
The spell leaves a bad taste in the air, and one he's familiar with, strangely enough. It's not exactly his favourite thing in the world, for obvious reasons. Why then, would Loki group together with a guy who has access to that type of magic?]
Robin Hood, huh? Not the weirdest demon I've seen. Call it a "Persona" all you want, but all I see is a demon that's getting between me and what I want. Though I suggest you don't use that same spell again, or I'll start having a problem with you.
[And that very much is a threat, and the way his entire demeanor shifts gives that much away instantly. He wasn't refering to Robin Hood cowering behind Akechi, more that Loki was, in the metaphorical sense.
It could still be seen that way, though.]
Call Loki out here, right now. I know you're hiding him.
no subject
Is interesting. A side of Kazuya unseen on the network or in person. A grudge, a vendetta - it's present and noticeable.
Akechi doesn't relent - notes the attack working. Notes the screech of the creature that sends a shiver through his body. Makes him feel alive. Content.
Loki isn't content. Wants out. Wants to rip it apart with Akechi.
Robin Hood remains ever dutiful behind him and Akechi presses a hand to his hip, watches the display with feigned ease.
Kouga targets the demon again. Appears in the air around them and strikes,]
I don't hide anything - why would I? If you're so sure there's another entity inside me, drag it out yourself.
no subject
It's hurt, but not as much as the direct hit from before. And Kazuya narrows his eyes further.]
Just like you didn't hid that you had powers? Just like you didn't hide that demon of your own?
[He laughs, and it's more amused than anything. He'll get to Loki even if he has to do what Akechi says and drag the demon out kicking and screaming.
A snap of his fingers, and something shimmers over both Kazuya and Culebre. A Shield All, something to reflect the damage from the bless spells he very much dislikes.]
Tear that demon apart.
[He's never once denied his dislike of demons. He'd kill them himself if they'd gotten in his way. And now this one is, and whether or not it's at Akechi's behest is irrelevant. It's in the way, and it needs to be removed.
Culebre launches a volley of ice this time, body twisting in the sky in an almost hypnotic, dance like fashion, wings flaring with each strike. An Ice Dance, to retaliate against the Kouga, though none of the spells are aimed at Akechi himself.
For now.]
no subject
It's a lesson all need to learn in this reality - the persona is an extension of his soul, not a targetable entity. Maruki's soul is different. Special. Not the norm, not the rule. His can touch and be touched. Robin Hood can't.
The attack hits, but Robin Hood doesn't react. Doesn't move. Doesn't act anguished in the slightest.
But it hits and Akechi feels it, likely due to this world's influence. It's not the Metaverse, not reality, and the effect lies somewhere in between. He shakes it off easily. Ice skills aren't his weakness. Kazuya will need to attack him to see the full brunt of damage.]
A man is allowed to have his secrets - I'm not like you. I don't like displaying my hand before it's necessary.
[Time for a big fucking almighty bomb! Megidoloan is cast next - targeted at Kazuya and not the creature, but will likely engulf both if they don't move.]
no subject
Pain rips through Kazuya too, having been at the epicenter of it. He's no stranger to taking damage from spells like this, and while it certainly hurts, is certainly painful, he's here to show off his own abilities, isn't he? Though the fact that Akechi would target him so boldly is interesting.
Well. He had targeted Akechi in turn with a Bufudyne, so perhaps it was fair. His clothes fray slightly from the blast, but Kazuya brushes off the damage with a Diarahan to heal himself and take away the pain.]
I display my hand so people can make informed decisions before trying to attack me like you have. Really, I don't care about this demon or you. It's Loki I want to tear apart. I know he's there, and I know you're hiding him.
[Kazuya's left eye flickers from blue to red, pupil unnatural and cat like as he levels his gaze at Akechi.]
I'm also going to pretend that you didn't just attack me for your own sake. The last thing I want to do is hurt a human.
no subject
Stuck on Loki. A persona that yearns for the thrill of a fight - Akechi's own will driving that.]
I think you're confused, perhaps because this isn't a demon. This is a persona. They likely feel different than what you're accustomed to.
[Robin Hood remains - hovering behind him as ever.]
The same way you're confused about my target. The skill is a wide range one - I'm sure you have a few of your own. I meant to hit your demon, of course.
no subject
He knows it anywhere. Should know it anywhere.
He raises his hand, and this time Culebre lands, small dust cloud kicked up as it levels it's stare at Akechi. There's no ill intent on the dragons behalf, but there is an aggressive sort of wariness, with the way it's eyes flick between Robin Hood and Akechi, head lowered and frost tinging the air as it breathes. A threat, but one of defense.]
I know a Megidolaon when I see it.
[But the skills are so similar. Akechi being from Tokyo is similar. There's so many similarities, and yet he can't yet grasp the difference between the persona Robin Hood, and the fact that by all accounts it's a demon. Of what it might mean that Robin Hood, and thus Loki, may not be demons at all.
He wants to pick them apart, for curiousities sake.]
Once more, I'm not picking a fight with you, Akechi. If your demons- Persona are not the demons I'm familiar with, then you shouldn't have a problem summoning Loki instead, should you? I know he's there. I can smell his stench clinging to you, so don't try to tell me he isn't.
[Kazuya's snaps his fingers, and this time a much more dangerous demon appears.
Belial speaks, leaning against his pitchfork. Grins maliciously.]
"And so I'm finally called upon by my King. A pretty matter, but it will be good to stretch my legs."
[And yet, Kazuya holds up his hand, prevents Belial from attacking just yet.]
Am I going to have to actually tear Loki out of you? I guess I could put you back together again after, but I can't imagine it'll be very pleasant.
no subject
He knows Loki exists in Akechi and Loki wants to make itself known in a sea of viscera. A shared feeling. The same desire. A soul entwined. Loki born from him. Loki is him. Loki is strong because Akechi is and-
They want to tear apart Kazuya and the shitty 'demon' speaking to him.
Hilarious.
Akechi laughs - acidic and cruel despite an attempt to temper it.
He's so tired of this shit.
A taped up smile, a step forward. Robin Hood preparing another Megidolaon. ]
Don't hold back on my account - show me what a 'king' can do against a 'prince.'
[Irritating - it's so goddamn irritating.]
no subject
If that's how you want it.
[It feels bad, truthfully. Using his powers to actively attack a person is something he's sure that Yuzu wouldn't want him to do, no matter how much he's being taunted for it to happen. He'd talked big to try and spook Loki out, to get Akechi to give in and show the demon, but that's not what happens. He rises to the challenge instead, and Kazuya watches with a frown tipped to his lips as the scent of magic permeates the air. Megidolaon. Again. An attack against all three of them, enough that a shield won't work.
Kazuya sighs, lowers his hand, and both Belial and Culebre laugh and shriek in tandem. Culebre rises into the air, just in time for that Megidolaon to connect with both it and the newer demon, crumpling it's body back to the earth again. A solid hit to a demon that didn't have much health left to begin with, and it smokes in an inky darkness as it's body starts to disipate into nothing. And Belial? He simply laughs even harder, leaning forward on his pitchfork.
Kazuya is notably absent, after the blast. An instant teleportation, one that puts him just behind Akechi as he raises his leg to kick him down, just behind his knees. There's a dangerous force behind it, even as Kazuya tries to temper his strength into something that he thinks a human should be able to handle. Hopes a human can handle, anyway.]
A human 'prince' can't compare to a demon 'king'.
[Really, he doesn't think Akechi ever stood a chance, and he's not who he wanted anyway. There's amusement on his face now, though. Something slightly more malicious to match Akechi's mood.
A familiar spark of magic glimmers in Kazuya's hand. More potent than the Megidolaon Akechi had just cast, the Megidolaondyne tickles against his flesh, waiting for a release of the energy.]
cw: violent thoughts, violent actions!
Two seconds.
Because the other shadow is cackling and the ground fills his vision, pain pulses at the back of his legs. Adrenaline. Glee.Kazuya wasn't all bark. He teleports. That's new - he's never seen a shadow do that, but that's part of what would make him a king.
Loki fills his chest - heart unbound, soul fraying at wild edges. It would be so easy to unleash it now - let that sword slam into Kazuya's chest, flay him with bursts of energy.
But he doesn't.
Can't let it out. Won't let him win. Turns with rapid force that may have snapped a lessor person's spine, a knife pulled from his side with a flick of his arm.
He hates Kazuya and that laugh -
Vile. Cruel. Mocking. A King -
Infuriates.
And he laughs too with a bitter maliciousness, a tone hardened.]You're nothing but trash.
[And that knife? Oh it's heading for any part of Kazuya he can reach, as he moves to tackle him to the ground.]
cw: violence & blood!!!! but its from a demon so its not Real Blood (TM)
His hand starts to close to detonate the spell when he's lunged at, and it's surprising enough that it fizzles out into nothing as their bodies connect, Kazuya not braced for it as he's effectively tackled to the ground with a searing, sharp pain deep just under the upward curve of his ribcage.
A second surprise. One that he just sort of blinks at Akechi for. It hurts, obviously, and there's a sticky wet feeling as blood pools in the little indent. That's-
A shame. It's the same spot Loki had shoved his entire hand through. Akechi has the nerve to hide the demon from him, but it's probably whispering in his ear all the same. At least he has more of his mind about him this time. Though it's not- It's not a good thing either, is it? Because he wants to drive the point home even further now. Twist Akechi's emotions further.
A hand comes to Akechi's where he has the knife lodged in him.
And forces him to twist it. It's excruciating, but the fact remains: He'll live through it easily.
Kazuya grins.]
I told you. A human prince is nothing to a Demon King.
[At the other teens back- a pitchfork held by a demon that pushes it uncomfortably against him. Belial hasn't disappeared, the other Bel demon is very much present, and all too eager to push the two on one advantage.]
cw: more violence, more blood, everyone's a little mmm
Kazuya's something else. The King twists the blade deeper into his own chest in a fit of glee, Akechi obliges by forcing his body down further. Far be it from him to deny someone the pain they desperately want. What they deserve.
He laughs and-
Prongs press against his spine, digging into flesh and threatening to pierce him through.
Akechi goads it on by ignoring it. Letting it. Concentrating on the fight with a boy trapped under his body.]
And yet, you still need that pathetic shadow to stab from behind. You're no goddamn King.
[But-
He wants to see Loki. Akechi wants to unleash it - wants to run wild, feels the thrum of a fight in his fingers and spine. A mind splintering, slamming, welcoming the sensation of ripping another apart.
And he's ripping him apart - he doesn't relinquish. Lets Kazuya deepen the blow, but forces all his weight into blade, until-
He's sick of that prickle against his back and-
With a wild, manic sort of glee, his voice resonates - loud and confident across the shitty patch of land they're fighting in.]
Manifest, Loki!
[A column of blinding, towering red consumes him - a creature appearing behind that Bel shadow in turn.
Akechi wastes no time in letting Riot Gun talk - attacking the shadow, Kazuya and himself. He doesn't give a shit.]
cw: violence, haha! violence, haha! and i guess vore thoughts ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
For now.
The knife is eagerly twisted in his chest. Does extensive damage for it. More blood pools, and his body keeps up by constantly trying to close the wound around it as the thick, viscous liquid dissipates into billowy smoke where it makes contact with air.
But he's being called out for his help, how silly is that? Akechi has Robin Hood, and obviously Loki, but Kazuya is the one who isn't allowed help? Fine.
Loki's name rings in his ears just in time as the tower of red blinds him, forcing him to look away for the split second that it takes for him to appear.
Loki.
But it isn't, either. This isn't the Loki he knows. There's no malicious playful mocking, no smarmy grin. There's nothing from him, from the Loki he knows. It's confusing enough to keep him there, rooted in place as Riot Gun pelts him, Belial, Akechi himself with a flurry of bullets.
Pain ricochets in his body, and Kazuya grunts while Belial once more laughs. It doesn't seem to do as much damage to Belial as Akechi might like, but it does serve to cause the demon to relent with the pitchfork, opting to attempt to slam it into the attacking demon with a Power Hit instead.
Kazuya opts to cast Gigajama, this time not directed at Loki, but at Akechi himself. He knows the other teen likely has skills he can use, and he'd rather he not, now that Loki is finally out and Kazuya needs to figure it out. The less he has to contend with, the better.]
cw: VIOLENCE, HAHA
Akechi doesn't give a shit about the sharp, violent hits that pound into everything within eyesight. The temporary agony from it worthwhile because it gets that piece of shit off his back, a boy under him to react. The demon tries to attack Loki and-
Nothing happens. Akechi needs to be the target, something Kazuya seems to learn with-
That.
That.
That barrier between him and his own will, his own powers, his own goddamn soul. ]You'll pay for that, you piece of shit.
[Because Loki is incapacitated the second it appears. Call of Chaos even locked away, deep in his own heart. Akechi can feel it. Knows it's there. Knows it's present.
The persona floats behind him still as Akechi tugs into the deepest recesses of his heart to unbind the chains affixed by a false king.
It doesn't work.
He's furious.
It doesn't work.So he attacks.
With his own hands, blade pressed deep into Kazuya's chest - a fist curls and he moves to punch Kazuya right in the face.]
You think an ailment will stop me?
cw: me breaking my rule of not tagging anyone until my tag ins are done also VIOLENCE!!!!!!!!
The moment Belial's attack moves through him, his connection to the other demon tells him as much. This Loki may as well be a phantom, intangible and untouchable and for a moment his own rage simmers in response to that fact.
He wants to tear Loki apart. He can't.
At the same time, his spell on Akechi was enough to hinder the demon; it's attacks cease, and the dots connect. To attack Loki, he has to attack Akechi. It's a moral conundrum. He doesn't want to attack a human, and Loki is really his only goal. Darkness and fire creep into his veins, and he can hear the almost unintelligible call to do it. To drive his fist into Akechi's chest the way Akechi has driven his knife into his.
He doesn't want to. There are those who would be sad.
He wants to. The call of vengeance burns in his blood.
A fist connects with the side of his face, the force of if it making him turn his head with it.
The call of vengeance wins, momentarily. Kazuya grits his teeth, and both of his hands come up to grip Akechi, practically still pristine, if a little coated by Kazuya's own blood, by his shirt. Another spell. Diajama, to make sure the hurt he inflicts stays, to make sure that there will be no reprieve from what Kazuya's about to do next. That what he does will linger and make him regret ever attacking him in the first place.]
This might.
[He reaches deep into the primordial darkness that simmers and burns and boils in his chest until a great well of magic springs up, unleashing the entirety of the Calamity of Babylon directly into Akechi's body at such a close range, and just barely restrained enough to not kill him outright.]
cw: VIOLENCE, VIOLENT THOUGHTS, ATTEMPTED STRANGULATION OH KAZUYA
cw: murder thoughts..... violence but restrained, this time
cw: violence, murderous INTENT
cw: what lexy said but also thats a wrap, folks